EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/1/2011

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


26th Afrobasket: Tunisia Road to Glory - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia senior national team Africa new Lord of the Rim began its quest to rule the slamming and dunking on August 18, 2011 in Group-D the group that comprises Central Africa Republic, Rwanda and Togo.

The Coach Adel Tlatli tutored side started with a 103 56 points spanking of new comer Togo a results that set them on the road to the podium two days later (August 20) the Tunisia again took the centre stage with a 69 37 points wroughting of Rwanda and completed its unbeaten run with a 65 52 points victory over Central Africa Republic on August 22.

Having qualified as the leader of group-D the magreb nation was pitched against last team from group-B South Africa whom it decision with ease by 94 50 points in the Eight Final Round or second round the Tunisian continue from where they left off with an 86 67 points victory over fellow North African Morocco on August 25.

It was the turn of 2009 edition runner-up Cote dIvoire to be dispatched by the Tunisian on its road to glory in the semi finals as it recorded a slim 60 57 points win over the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side in a pulsating game on Saturday August 27 a win which set up against Ten-time champion Angola who stopped its ambition in the semi-final of the 2009 edition in Tripoli, Libya.

Tunisia who made it to the 2010 FIBA World Championship for the first time having conquered Cameroon in the third place game was set to take its pound of flesh against its 2009 semi final foe Angola in the grand finale at the packed full Palais des Sport arena in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Ranked 37 in the world and 5th in Africa, Tunisia surely knows that the winner get automatic ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games Tunisia went out against the former champion, Angola ranked 13th in the world and number one in Africa from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning three of the four quarters to take its first African title by 67-56 points leaving Angola and Nigeria two Africa basketball giant to try their luck in the playoffs of the basketball event of the 2012 Olympic Games.

Tunisia did not stop at winning the Special 2011 Afrobasket as the continental ruling body FIBA Africa marked its 50th years of it existence annexed almost all the available individual honours as three of its players made the continental Top-5 with Salah Mejri who recently penned down a deal at Antwerp basketball club of Belgium among the Top-5. Mejri also claim the 2011 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player award displacing Joaquim Gomes of Angola.

Other Tunisian players who mounted the podium as Africa Top-5 award winner include power forward Macram Ben Romdhane and point guard Marouan Kechride while Nigeria Ime Udoka and Angola Carlos Morais completing the Top-5 honour roster. Senegalese duo Mouhammad Faye and Malick Badiane won the highest scorer, highest three pointer and highest rebounder awards.


26th Afrobasket: Tunisia Road to Glory - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia senior national team Africa new Lord of the Rim began its quest to rule the slamming and dunking on August 18, 2011 in Group-D the group that comprises Central Africa Republic, Rwanda and Togo.

The Coach Adel Tlatli tutored side started with a 103 56 points spanking of new comer Togo a results that set them on the road to the podium two days later (August 20) the Tunisia again took the centre stage with a 69 37 points wroughting of Rwanda and completed its unbeaten run with a 65 52 points victory over Central Africa Republic on August 22.

Having qualified as the leader of group-D the magreb nation was pitched against last team from group-B South Africa whom it decision with ease by 94 50 points in the Eight Final Round or second round the Tunisian continue from where they left off with an 86 67 points victory over fellow North African Morocco on August 25.

It was the turn of 2009 edition runner-up Cote dIvoire to be dispatched by the Tunisian on its road to glory in the semi finals as it recorded a slim 60 57 points win over the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side in a pulsating game on Saturday August 27 a win which set up against Ten-time champion Angola who stopped its ambition in the semi-final of the 2009 edition in Tripoli, Libya.

Tunisia who made it to the 2010 FIBA World Championship for the first time having conquered Cameroon in the third place game was set to take its pound of flesh against its 2009 semi final foe Angola in the grand finale at the packed full Palais des Sport arena in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Ranked 37 in the world and 5th in Africa, Tunisia surely knows that the winner get automatic ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games Tunisia went out against the former champion, Angola ranked 13th in the world and number one in Africa from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning three of the four quarters to take its first African title by 67-56 points leaving Angola and Nigeria two Africa basketball giant to try their luck in the playoffs of the basketball event of the 2012 Olympic Games.

Tunisia did not stop at winning the Special 2011 Afrobasket as the continental ruling body FIBA Africa marked its 50th years of it existence annexed almost all the available individual honours as three of its players made the continental Top-5 with Salah Mejri who recently penned down a deal at Antwerp basketball club of Belgium among the Top-5. Mejri also claim the 2011 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player award displacing Joaquim Gomes of Angola.

Other Tunisian players who mounted the podium as Africa Top-5 award winner include power forward Macram Ben Romdhane and point guard Marouan Kechrid while Nigeria Ime Udoka and Angola Carlos Morais completing the Top-5 honour roster. Senegalese duo Mouhammad Faye and Malick Badiane won the highest scorer, highest three pointer and highest rebounder awards.


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  ARGENTINA   


Argentina hands 84-52 loss to Paraguay in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News
PARAGUAY - ARGENTINA 52-84

Argentina cruised past Paraguay 84-52 in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. The host of this event has 1-0 in Group B. Panama, Puerto Rico and Uruguay are also participants of this pool. Argentina took control on Paraguay from the beginning and never looked back. Alfredo Quinteros (186-G-79) led the hosts with 19 points (valuation 22). Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) had 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) helped with 12 points and 8 boards. Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) and Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances) added 10 points and 5 rebounds each. On the other side, Paraguay got 18 points from Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82). Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, college: Merrimack) and Jose Fabio (198-F-77) (9 rebs) scored 13 and 11 pts respectively. Quarters: 8-27, 15-18, 17-24, 12-15. Argentina will meet Uruguay in Day Two. Paraguay will play against Puerto Rico.

Paraguay: Guillermo Araujo 18, Bruno Zanotti 13, Jose Fabio 11+9 boards
Argentina: Alfredo Quinteros 19, Luis Scola 14+6 boards, Juan Gutierrez 12+8 boards, Andres Nocioni 10+5 boards, Emanuel Ginobili 10+5 boards

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  AUSTRALIA   


Wildcats start pre-season with a win - by Eurobasket News
Shawn Redhage made a successful return as the Perth Wildcats won its opening pre-season contest leading into the 2011/12 iiNet NBL Championship season with an 85-75 triumph over the Lakeside All Stars at Lakeside Recreation Centre tonight.

Redhage took another massive step on the road to making his NBL return for the 2011/12 season-opener in Adelaide on October 8 by taking part in the contest with the invitational Lakeside team.

Not only did he take part, but he hit the opening shot of the game just 12 seconds in after an assist from his fellow co-captain Brad Robbins (186-G-85). Redhage went on to play just over 18 minutes to hit four field goals on his way to nine points, four rebounds and three assists.

It was his first game since suffering his horrific hip injury in Adelaide on January 20 and the six-time Wildcats Most Valuable Player was just delighted to be back on the court to play a game after everything he has been through, and felt good.

'It was fun just to get out there and play, and make a few mistakes to get all the cobwebs out. Just to get back to play with the boys again made me pretty excited. When something is pretty close to being taken away from you it makes you appreciate it a lot more, and that's how I feel just being able to play right now,' Redhage said.

'Never at one stage did I tell Bevo to take me off, but it was probably smart to limit it to about 20 minutes and see how I feel. We've got a deep team and with the way we play aggressively means that you can't really play more than 30 minutes. It was just good to run up and down, and just be back on the basketball court. It's just a lot of fun.'

It was a strong performance by the Wildcats in their first pre-season game after just over two weeks of official training.

Fresh off the SBL championship win with the Wanneroo Wolves, Robbins led the way for the Wildcats with 18 points, five boards and five assists. His Wanneroo teammate Greg Hire had four points, 10 rebounds and four assists in a tremendous showing.

Kevin Lisch (188-G, agency: Warren Sports International, college: St.Louis) scored 17 points to go with three boards and three assists. Cameron Tovey (200-F-85, college: Augusta St.) was also a big contributor with 15 points, including four three-pointers, and seven rebounds.

Matt Knight scored 10 points and pulled in five boards, Jesse Wagstaff eight points and Ben Purser four.

The Lakeside All Stars team was certainly supremely talented featuring Minnesota Timberwolves NBA power forward Anthony Tolliver (206-C-85, college: Creighton), former Wichita State NCAA star P.J. Couisnard (193-G/F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: Wichita St.) and SBL standouts Dean Hadley (198-G, college: USF), Ben Beran and Jarrad Prue.

Tolliver put on a strong showing finishing with 30 points and 19 rebounds. Couisnard was also terrific for Lakeside with 23 points and six boards while Hadley added 13 points.

Game 2 of the three-game series will be at Willetton Basketball Stadium on Friday night with a tip-off of 7pm. Tickets are available at www.wildcats.com.au or on 1300 WILDCATS. Game 3 is on Saturday night at Joondalup Basketball Stadium.

Perth Wildcats 85 (Brad Robbins 18, Kevin Lisch 17, Cameron Tovey 15)
defeated
Lakeside All Stars 75 (Anthony Tolliver 30, P.J. Couisnard 23, Dean Hadley 13)

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

Robbins grateful for NBL preperation - by Eurobasket News
Brad Robbins (186-G-85) is thankful to the Wanneroo Wolves for allowing him to prepare for the upcoming Perth Wildcats season by playing in their men's State Basketball League championship-winning campaign.

Wildcats co-captain Robbins joined the Wolves in June and played a crucial role in their run to their first SBL championship since 1993, which culminated in their 88-83 victory against Perry Lakes in Saturday's Grand Final.

The 26-year-old guard averaged 13.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 14 games with the Wolves and excelled in the Grand Final, where he had eight points, five rebounds, six assists and nine steals.

Robbins said his time in the SBL had been hugely beneficial and had set him up well for a big NBL season.

'The Wanneroo club is such a family environment and they welcomed me with open arms midway through the year, which I'm so grateful for,' he said.

'I've gained a lot. I feel like I've developed my leadership in terms of on-court skills, I've been able to have an off-season and I've put on some weight.

'Compared to this time last year, I'm so much fitter. Normally I'm under the knife and having surgery and this year I'm running around. It's just great to be in shape.'

Robbins has always been known for his tenacious defence but he stepped it up offensively in the SBL, especially in the finals, where he averaged 17.3 points from his six outings.

He said he was optimistic that would help him improve his offensive numbers with the Wildcats.

'For the Wolves I guess I've got the green light to take those shots, where with the Wildcats the idea is to shoot when you're open. But it's definitely given me the confidence to take that into the NBL,' Robbins said.

'For me and even for the other Wildcats guys who've played SBL, I think it's done us a world of good.' Robbins' Wanneroo teammate and recent Wildcats signing Greg Hire also had a fantastic SBL season, averaging 21.8 points and 17 rebounds per game.

Hire dominated the Grand Final, where he had 31 points and 28 rebounds to take the Most Valuable Player award for the game, and Robbins said performances like that showed he would be successful in the NBL.

'Greg Hire is amazing. He put up ridiculous numbers through the season,' Robbins said.

'He's going to challenge everyone who steps onto an NBL court and I can't wait to see him in action. He's going to be a Wildcats fan-favourite.

'They (the Wildcats coaches) wanted him to lose weight and they wanted him to work on his game and he did that. The sky is the limit for Greg. If he wants to have a long career, he can.'

Article by Jacob Kagi at the WA Basketball Stadium
Courtesy of: SBL

SEABL East Elimination Finalsn Preview - by Eurobasket News
SEABL EAST MEN ELIMINATION FINALS PREVIEW

Bendigo Braves (21-5) v Kilsyth Cobras (17-9), Bendigo Stadium, 7pm Saturday, September 3


Form

Bendigos loss to Knox was only their second at home this season, so they still have every reason to be extremely confident. But over the last 8 games, Bendigo are 4-4, and all of the losses have come against other East conference finalists. The Braves must also know that this year will be seen as a failure if they fail to reach the East conference final given their dominance over the regular season.

Kilsyth could not be in better shape going into their toughest game of the season, riding a nine game winning streak. The Cobras should also hold no fear against the Braves, coming from four points down at three-quarter time to get up and win by 9 when they last met in round 16. Finally, the Cobras away record during the regular season is actually better than at home, going 9-4 away and 8-5 at home.


Key Players

Bendigo:

Ivan McFarlin (203-F-82, college: Oklahoma St.) is possibly the toughest player to stop in the competition. Against Knox, the power forward was again dominant with 15 points and 21 rebounds in the loss. But the Braves biggest problem is at the point. Either Kevin Probert must step up, or the coaching staff must be courageous and throw the team around. Perhaps Luke Meyer could go into the point, or perhaps they could start Warren Randall.


Kilsyth:

Matt OHea was instrumental in lifting Kilsyth to victory in their opening round playoff win over Dandenong. The guard had the answers every time the Rangers challenged in the second half, with some big threes and clutch plays. Zach Malvik (192-G-84, agency: Hoops Ambassadors, college: Winona St.) is the other key to the Cobras success. He has matured as a leader and acts as the Cobras architect on offence.


X-Factor

Bendigo

Chris Hogan has had a less than memorable year for the Braves. His numbers are down, and he hasnt had anywhere near the same impact this season compared to previous years. But his recent form has shown some improvement. Over the opening 18 games of the season, Hogan didnt reach double figure points once. But in the last nine games, he has hit double figures six times. Bendigo must get some production from their bench, and it has to start with Hogan.


Kilsyth

Tariq Naqqash lacks no confidence when taking shots from beyond the arc, and can be a game saver or a coach killer. Last week he was the former, killing off Dandenong with 4-from-7 threes. But he has also been the latter. Against Geelong in round 9, Naqqash went 1-of-9 from downtown. Given the Braves rebounding prowess and high field goal percentage, Naqqash must knock his opportunities down, otherwise Bendigo will capitalise.


Key Match ups

Sam Harris (221-C-84, college: ODU) & Ivan McFarlin vs Tim Lang & Auryn MacMillan

This is a tantalising frontcourt battle, and the winner could be determined by whoever controls the paint. There was nothing between them when they last met, Lang and MacMillan outscoring their opponents, while Harris and McFalin held an edge in rebounding. Maybe they will cancel each other out, but should be great to watch nonetheless.


Luke Meyer vs Quincy Henderson

In the 2011 players survey, Quincy Henderson was voted the best defensive player by a streak. He must be a coachs dream, given he always gets the toughest opponent and usually comes away a winner. Luke Meyer will need to use all his craftiness and agility to gain an advantage over the back-to-back defensive player of the year.


Previous Meetings This Year
Round 3
Round 16

Bendigo 74 def Kilsyth 71 @ Bendigo
Kilsyth 81 def Bendigo 72 @ Kilsyth



Overall:

Bendigo risk having their outstanding season unravel before their very eyes, and must be motivated by the desire to avoid an embarrassing straight-sets exit from the finals. Kilsyth know that kind of pain too well, having been through that experience last year. The Cobras are also the best defensive team in the league and will push the Braves away from their comfort zone in every aspect. This may not be a spectacle for the fans, but should still be a nail-biting affair.

Prediction: Bendigo by 6.
Courtesy of: seabl.com.au

Big V: Keilor Thunder win premiership - by Eurobasket News
30.08.2011
by Lance Jenkinson

Northwest and Brimbank Weekly

THE scriptwriters delivered a fairytale ending for Keilor Thunder in the Victorian Basketball League Big V womens division 2.

The Thunder was a cut above the rest en route to the minor premiership and put the finishing touches on a fine season with a flawless finals series.

They were crowned this years champions in front of their adoring fans at Keilor Basketball Stadium on Saturday night with a 2-0 sweep of Blackburn Vikings in the best-of-three grand final series.

An ecstatic Thunder coach Steve Toy jumped for joy and his players were overjoyed at the final buzzer of the 73-60 win in game two.

I think Ive jumped as high as I have in about 30 years, he told the Weekly after the game.

It was really exciting counting the last seconds down. Its terrific.

Nerves might have got the better of the Thunder in the first quarter.

The hosts trailed by as much as six and had to battle to stay in the contest.

They got off to a flyer, Toy said. It took us a while to peg them back.

The Thunder knew only one way to reverse the trend. They tightened the screws with their trademark defence.

A mere 17 points was all the Thunder conceded in periods two and three.

They went to three-quarter-time with a commanding 14-point lead.

This strategic ability to lock down opposition teams when they get a roll on has been the key to the Thunders remarkable season.

Our defence was fantastic, Toy said. That really set the tone for the rest of the game. The Thunder could not have achieved their great heights without Katherine Black.

The imposing centre finished with 17 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks.

This pointed the way to the premiership but not the grand final MVP award, which was controversially given to Vikings star Lauren Hoare.

Toy was not too fussed and lauded Blacks superb series.

Its unusual, yeah, but thats one persons opinion, he said. Ill take the premiership any day. She was absolutely awesome all night.

She made shots and got stops when we needed them. She has been fantastic since the finals started and its like shes stepped up another gear.

Karla Mavor was important for the Thunder with 13 points, five rebounds and two assists, Nala Tubb had 11 points and four rebounds and Lauren Toy counted nine points and five rebounds.

It wasnt a win built on individual brilliance. They have worked really hard and well as a team, Toy said.

Not very often do you get a team with the chemistry this team has got. They has been pulling in the same direction all year.

Keilor Thunders champion team is: Steve Toy (coach), Kristen Mavor (captain), Debbie Burgoyne, Nala Tubb, Lauren Toy, Katie Malane, Alysha Carden-David, Michelle Reid, Karla Mavor, Gab Jansen, Jessica Francke, Katherine Black, Ashleigh Gunn.
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au



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  AUSTRIA   


Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg adds Lanegger to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg added to their roster 21-year old former international guard Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90, agency: Interperformances). Lanegger played most recently at ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (A Bundesliga). While playing 35 games for Kapfenberg last season he averaged 6.8ppg, 4.8rpg and 4.0apg. Lanegger is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Bulgaria, Estonia and Hungary.

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  BELGIUM   


EuroBasket 2011: Georgia open with big win over Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Georgia - Belgium 81:59

Georgia set sail at the 2011 EuroBasket with victory. They knocked down Belgium to gain the initial win at the tournament.
Georgia used a 7:2 run early in the encounter to surge ahead. They posted a 20:11 advantage ten minutes into the game. Soon Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) opened up a double-digit lead for Georgia. The margin grew at 16-point mark in the second frame. Lauwers capped the half with a three-pointer as Belgium got within 13 points at the interval 24:37. Tornike Shengelia gave Georgia a 21-point advantage midway through the third term. Belgium managed to get within 16 points at the final break 42:58. Moors opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer to drag Belgium within 13 points 45:58. But Georgia answered with a 10:0 run to leave Belgium behind. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) stepped up with 16 points, while Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and Tornike Shengelia scored 13 points each. The first one adding 11 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Christophe Beghin (207-F-80, agency: Court Side) answered with 13 points, 6 boards and 4 assists, while Didier Mbenga (214-C-80) had 12 points in the loss.

Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 16, Viktor Sanikidze 13+11 boards, Tornike Shengelia 13
Belgium: Christophe Beghin 13, Didier Mbenga 12


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  BOSNIA   


Siroki blasts Split 88-60 in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Siroki - Split 88-60

Bosnian champion Siroki and Croatian team Split met in a friendly game this week. Bosnians were much better celebrating 88-60 victory at the end. Siroki had impressive beginning. They took control on Split making plus 21 in the first 20 minutes. It was 50-29 for the hosts. Split slightly improved after the breather, but simply was not able to come any closer. Siroki was controlling the rhythm jumping to final 88-60 at the end. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) led the winners with 17 points. Zeljko Sakic (203-F-88) and Josip Naletilic (195-G-89) delivered 12 points each. New players of Siroki Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) and Dino Butorac (192-G-90) scored 10 and 9 points respectively. In Split, Josip Sobin (203-G/F-89) delivered 22 points. Ivan Mimica (193-G-80) had 12 and Toni Katic (188-PG-92) added 10 pts.

Siroki: Darko Planinic 17, Zeljko Sakic 12, Josip Naletilic 12, Jakov Vladovic 10, Dino Butorac 9
Split: Josip Sobin 22, Ivan Mimica 12, Toni Katic 10

EuroBasket 2011: Greece opened the campaign with the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
Greece-Bosnia and Herzegovina 76:67

Greece opened Eurobasket 2011 with the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trailing after the first half, the Greek side needed a strong second half to seal 76:67 win.
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with some important baskets to take the lead at the court. Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) brought 13:8, while his another points showed 17:13 on the board. Xanthopoulos closed the first period at 17:15 and Bramos reduced to 19:20. Greece stayed close to the opponent but could not tie the game. Bajramovic scored for 32:29 and he sent the teams to the lockers for 34:31. Vasiljevic and Dedovic gave Bosnia 39:35, while Nikolaos Zisis (196-G-83) tied the game at 41:41. Then it was difficult to stop Greece that found its game. After 24-15 in the third quarter they enjoyed 55:49 after three quarters. Nikolaos Zisis nailed another three for 63:56 and Koufos delivered two fro 70:58. Bramos and Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) scored the last points for the teams to set up the final result.
Nikolaos Zisis and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) top-scored for the winners with 13 points each, while Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 12. Elmedin Kikanovic ended up with 15 points in defeat and Nemanja Gordic scored 12.

Greece: Nikolaos Zisis 13, Nick Calathes 13, Ioannis Bourousis 12
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Elmedin Kikanovic 15, Nemanja Gordic 12


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  BRAZIL   


Brazil opens FIBA Americans Championship with victory - by Eurobasket News
BRAZIL - VENEZUELA 92-83

Brazil celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. They handed 92-83 loss to Venezuela for 1-0 score in Group A. Brazil had five players with double-digits in scoring yesterday. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) was the leading one with 17 points, plus he had 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) (7 as) and Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) (6 rebs) had 16 points each, Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 15 and Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) had 11 pts. In Venezuela, Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) responded with 26 points and 7 assists. Gregory Echenique (205-C-90) (7 rebs) and David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) posted 12 and 11 points respectively. Their team has 0-1 now. Participants of Group A are also Cuba, Dominican Republic and Canada. Quarters: 25-26, 14-18, 27-25, 26-14. Brazil will play against Canada today. Venezuela will take on strong Dominican Republic.

Brazil: Tiago Splitter 17+11 boards+6 as, Marcelinho Huertas 16+7 as, Guilherme Giovannoni 16+6 boards, Alex Ribeiro 15, Marcelo Magalhaes 11
Venezuela: Greivis Vasquez 26+7 as, Gregory Echenique 12+7 boards, David Cubillan 11

Marcos de Souza joins BBC US Hiefenech Heffingen - by Eurobasket Center
BBC US Hiefenech Heffingen agreed terms with 29-year old Italian-Brazilian center Marcos de Souza (208-C-82). de Souza played most recently at LB Cabo Frio in Brazil regional league CARIOCA. de Souza is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Brazil, Portugal and Spain. Two years ago de Souza spent a season in Spanish LEB Silver team Leyma Basquet Coruna. In 30 games he averaged 2.1ppg, 1.7rpg. He played also in South American Championships representing Brazil in 2000.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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  BULGARIA   


EuroBasket 2011. Slovenia overcome Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia - Bulgaria 67:59

Bulgaria put up a decent fight in their EuroBasket opener but surrendered against Slovenia at the end. Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) stepped up with 18 points and 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bulgaria led in the fourth quarter but Slovenia capped the regulation on an 11:0 run to steal a valuable win at the end.
Slovenia opened the game with five points in a row but soon Bulgaria put their noses in front 11:9. Slovenia gained back the lead late in the period accumulating a 17:13 lead at the first break. Erazem Lorbek and Udrih gave Slovenia a 23:14 lead midway through the second term. Bulgaria managed to narrow the gap to just 4 points at the interval. Kostov put Bulgaria as close as one early in the third term but Slovenia reacted with eight points in a row to clear off. They ensured a 47:40 lead at the final intermission. Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 7 points in an 11:0 run as Bulgaria grabbed a 57:51 lead with under five minutes to go. But Slovenia came back from behind and sealed the victory at the end. Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) finished with 13 points, 6 boards and 6 assists, while Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) contributed 12 points in the win. Earl Rowland answered with 20 points for Bulgaria. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) posted 14 points in the loss.

Slovenia: Erazem Lorbek 18, Goran Dragic 13, Zoran Dragic 12
Bulgaria: Earl Rowland 20, Filip Videnov 14


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  CROATIA   


Cedevita wins in pre-season opener - by Eurobasket News
Cedevita celebrated in their first friendly games this pre-season. The Croatian outfit met Russian Spartak Primorie and managed to beat them 80-76. Tomislav Petrovic (202-G-85, agency: Agency No 10) was the leading player in Cedevita with 15 points. Chris Owens (204-F-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Texas) helped the team with 12, while Miro Bilan (212-F-89) and Chris Warren (196-F-81, agency: SportsTalent, college: S.Carolina) netted 10 points each. For Spartak, Gannadi Zelenskiy (187-G-82, agency: RIZO) was better than the others with 13 points. Second quarter was maybe the crucial one for Cedevita as they won it 25-8. Before that, Spratak earned minimum lead in the first ten minutes, 21-22. Q3 also belonged to Russians 18-19 and they threatened in the last period (16-27), but were not able to make a turn. It is important to mention that Cedevita played without Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79), Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) and Marko Car (188-G/F-85). Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) also did not play in this meeting due to injury.

Dubrovnik signs Dino Repesa - by Eurobasket News
Dino Repesa (200-F-92) will play next season for Dubrovnik. The Croatian forward had offers from Capljina and Krizevci, but at the end decided to join Dubrovnik. He hopes to have lot of chance to play in A1 next season due to new league rule. Repesa heads to Dubrovnik from Benetton Treviso, where he mostly played for their junior team. He helped them win junior league title in Italy. Actually, Repesa was MVP of the Final Tournament. Before Benetton, he played for Zrinjevac Zagreb. Dino Repesa is active member of the Croatian U19 National Team. He played for them at the World Championships U19 in Latvia this summer. For 5 games at this event he had 1.2 ppg. Last year, Repesa played for U18 Croatia and before that he was a member of U16 Croatian NT. Dino is a son of well known coach Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency).

Siroki blasts Split 88-60 in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Siroki - Split 88-60

Bosnian champion Siroki and Croatian team Split met in a friendly game this week. Bosnians were much better celebrating 88-60 victory at the end. Siroki had impressive beginning. They took control on Split making plus 21 in the first 20 minutes. It was 50-29 for the hosts. Split slightly improved after the breather, but simply was not able to come any closer. Siroki was controlling the rhythm jumping to final 88-60 at the end. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) led the winners with 17 points. Zeljko Sakic (203-F-88) and Josip Naletilic (195-G-89) delivered 12 points each. New players of Siroki Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) and Dino Butorac (192-G-90) scored 10 and 9 points respectively. In Split, Josip Sobin (203-G/F-89) delivered 22 points. Ivan Mimica (193-G-80) had 12 and Toni Katic (188-PG-92) added 10 pts.

Siroki: Darko Planinic 17, Zeljko Sakic 12, Josip Naletilic 12, Jakov Vladovic 10, Dino Butorac 9
Split: Josip Sobin 22, Ivan Mimica 12, Toni Katic 10

EuroBasket 2011: Croatia survive scare, edge Finland - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Finland 84:79

Croatia registered their first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They held off Finland in a tough battle in Alytus tonight. Finland led at halftime but Croatia came from behind to snatch a tough win at the end.
Finland got to a brave start as they posted a 17:10 lead midway through the opening quarter. Croatia answered with a 10:0 run to surge ahead. But Finland eked out a 26:25 lead after ten minutes. Koivisto hit a three-pointer for a 42:31 lead for Finland midway through the second term. They hung on to post a 43:41 halftime advantage. Croatia pulled in front early in the third term and soon used a 7:0 run to make it 60:52. They arrived at the final break leading by four points 60:56. Finland cut the margin to a single point 75:76 with under two minutes remaining. However Markota drained a triple and then Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) and Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) sealed the winning outcome from the stripe. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) stepped up with 27 points to pace the winners. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) added 14 points, while Marco Popovic had 12 in the victory. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) answered with 14 points for Finland. Sasu Salin (190-PG-91) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 27, Ante Tomic 14, Marko Popovic 12
Finland: Petteri Koponen 14, Sasu Salin 13


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  CUBA   


Dominican Republic destroys Cuba 90-60 in Day One - by Eurobasket News
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - CUBA 90-60

Dominican Republic opened FIBA Americas Championship 2011 in style. They destroyed Cuba 90-60 for 1-0 record in Group A. Participants of the same pool are also Canada, Venezuela and Brazil. Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) shined for the winners with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) had double-double of 16 points and 10 boards, while Edgar Sosa (188-PG-88, college: Louisville) helped with 14 pts. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) delivered 11 pts in this meeting. In the loosing squad, Yoan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) was better than the others with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Lisvan Valdez (194-G/F-88) and Yudniel Perez (189-G-84) had 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 18-8, 20-11, 31-18, 21-23. In Day Two, Dominican Republic will meet Venezuela. Cuba will take a break.

Dominican Republic: Alfred Horford 24+9 boards, Jack Michael Martinez 16+10 boards, Edgar Sosa 14, Charlie Villanueva 11
Cuba: Yoan Luis Haiti 18+8 boards, Lisvan Valdez 15, Yudniel Perez 12

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Usti nad labem Bring In Lekendric Longmire for Try Out - by Surujh Roopnarine
Mattoni NBL newcomers SLUNETA Usti nad Labem have brought in first year-pro Lekendric Longmire (196-G-87) for an evaluation.
Longmire, 24, is a 6-5 shooting guard/small forward out of the University of Oregon where he played three seasons. His NCAA career was cut short after being ruled ineligible for his senior 2010-11 season. As a Junior in 2009-10 he started 16 of 26 games played for the Ducks and averaged 7.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals while shooting 41.6% from the field and 73.3% from the free-throw line. A native of Pascagoula, Mississippi, Longmire landed in Czech on Sunday and made his debut on Monday night as Usti nad Labem faced Polish League second-place finishers PGE Turow Zgorzelec in an exhibition game. Longmire scored 12 points and will have further opportunities to prove himself during upcoming exhibition contests.

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  D-LEAGUE   


Ex-NBA player set for LA court appearance - by Eurobasket News
Former NBA player Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) was scheduled to appear Wednesday in criminal court for a hearing in connection with his arrest in a murder case in Atlanta.

Crittenton was being held on a state penal code violation of being a fugitive from justice, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said. He was taken into custody Monday night at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

Police in Atlanta had obtained a murder warrant for Crittenton in the Aug. 19 shooting of Jullian Jones, 23, a mother of four young children, as she was walking with two men.

Crittenton, 23, was wanted on a federal arrest warrant after the FBI learned that he traveled on a one-way ticket to Los Angeles, where he was known to have family and friends, several days after the shooting.

Crittenton's attorneys have said he will be exonerated.

An Atlanta Police spokeswoman said the timetable for Crittenton's return depends on whether he waives extradition.

Jones, a 23-year-old mother of four, was outside her house with 18-year-old Trontavious Stephens when a black Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid pulled up and gunfire erupted. Authorities have said they don't believe Jones was the intended target, but they haven't said who they think the assailant was after.

Crittenton was with the Washington Wizards in December 2009 when he and Arenas had a dispute over a card game. Two days later, Arenas brought four guns to the locker room and set them in front of Crittenton's locker with a sign telling him to 'PICK 1.' Crittenton then took out his own gun.

Crittenton pleaded guilty in January 2010 to a misdemeanor gun charge and received a year of unsupervised probation. Arenas entered his guilty plea on Jan. 15, 2010. He served a short time in a halfway house.

Crittenton is on the roster of the NBA developmental league's Dakota Wizards.

Courtesy of The Associated Press

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Dominican Republic destroys Cuba 90-60 in Day One - by Eurobasket News
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - CUBA 90-60

Dominican Republic opened FIBA Americas Championship 2011 in style. They destroyed Cuba 90-60 for 1-0 record in Group A. Participants of the same pool are also Canada, Venezuela and Brazil. Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) shined for the winners with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) had double-double of 16 points and 10 boards, while Edgar Sosa (188-PG-88, college: Louisville) helped with 14 pts. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) delivered 11 pts in this meeting. In the loosing squad, Yoan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) was better than the others with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Lisvan Valdez (194-G/F-88) and Yudniel Perez (189-G-84) had 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 18-8, 20-11, 31-18, 21-23. In Day Two, Dominican Republic will meet Venezuela. Cuba will take a break.

Dominican Republic: Alfred Horford 24+9 boards, Jack Michael Martinez 16+10 boards, Edgar Sosa 14, Charlie Villanueva 11
Cuba: Yoan Luis Haiti 18+8 boards, Lisvan Valdez 15, Yudniel Perez 12

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  EBA   


Hype Travel to China - by EBA Media
The Hudson Valley Hype Travel to China for Exhibition Games

After weeks of negotiations and diligence, we are proud to announce the Hudson Valley Hype have been approved for a seven day tour with (4) exhibition games against Chinas best competition. The itinerary includes all hotel, food, and transportation arrangements plus visits to some of the most scenic landmarks in the world.

This is a major event for the Eastern Basketball Alliance, and the Hudson Valley Hype as an organization. While this privilege is reserved for the starting line up made of players returning this year, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be exposed to this level of competition and possible future coaches. Coach Pickett explains, This is a prime example of the opportunities that exist when you play for the E.B.A. and the Hudson Valley Hype. While we have players that obtain contracts for overseas play every year, we have never been able to have the entire starting line up be invited for this type of exposure and tour in one package. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most of these guys and I am proud to see their hard work payoff. Our only expense will be airfare, so we are currently looking for sponsors and donations of any monetary amount to make sure our team can afford such an opportunity.


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  ECUADOR   


All-Star Weekend Quito 2011 -3 videos! - by Bayo Arigbon

Bayo Arigbon (197-F-86, college: San Diego Chr.)

Last weekend was the All Star game in Quito, Ecuador. I took footage of 3 events and made videos to share the experience with everyone who follows my blog. 3pt Shoot out, Dunk Contest, and clips from the All Star game. (I got as many highlights as I could before my camera battery died! lol ) Please watch em all and Enjoy!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_isCet7Ylsk <=== 3pt Shoot Out


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHDfeKQtCuE&feature=related <==== Dunk Contest



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF3EEJIK0nA <==== All Star game



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  EUROLEAGUE   


Zalgiris-CSKA to tip off Turkish Airlines Euroleague season - by Eurobasket News
A shining new monument to Lithuania's first love, basketball, will be the starting place for a Turkish Airlines Euroleague season full of promise as Zalgiris Kaunas has been chosen to host long-time rival CSKA Moscow in the 2011-12 opening game. Zalgiris and CSKA will face each other at the recently inaugurated, 15,400-seat Zalgirio Arena on Monday, October 17 to open a week when all 24 teams of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague will see their first action of the 2011-12 season. The regular season will extend for 10 consecutive weeks, giving way in 2012 to the Top 16, the Playoffs and the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Final Four, where a continental champion will be crowned next May in Istanbul.

'The dedication of Lithuania to our sport makes the choice of Kaunas for this season's opening game very exciting for everyone involved,' said Jordi Bertomeu, Euroleague Basketball's President and CEO. 'Thanks to the hard work of Zalgiris and the city of Kaunas, the fans there have a fantastic new arena in which to show the world their unique levels of devotion. For all of us who love basketball like they do, going to Kaunas to start the Turkish Airlines Euroleague on October 17 is the ultimate in anticipation.'

Kaunas is one of the world capitals of basketball, home to the only Lithuanian club, Zalgiris, to have won a European title, in 1999, as well as the birthplace of Arvydas Sabonis, considered among the greatest players in the history of international basketball, and other great stars of the sport. This will mark the second time that Kaunas has been the site of a Euroleague opening game, after Zalgiris hosted then-champion Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2004. Zalgirio Arena, located on an island in the Nemunas River, opened on August 21, 2011. It will host the final round of EuroBasket 2011, which decides the continent's country champion, in mid-September.

'We are honored to be chosen once again by Euroleague Basketball to host the first game of the new season,' said Sabonis, the current president of Zalgiris. 'With our new arena and our devoted fans, we will be proud to open a new Turkish Airlines Euroleague season that is sure to take European basketball to greater heights than ever.'

Zalgiris and CSKA enjoy one of the oldest rivalries in professional basketball, dating back 65 years to 1947 when the teams played each other in the Soviet Union championship. They have only played 10 times in continental competition, however, all since 1999, with CSKA having won the last nine of those games. This season, CSKA is being coached by Jonas Kazlauskas, the former Lithuanian national team boss who coached Zalgiris to its only continental crown, in 1999.

Courtesy of Euroleague

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Dirk Nowitzki and Germany Stomp Over Israel 91:64 - by David Pick
A month of intense preparations came to an end today (Wednesday), as Group B of the 2011 EuroBakset competition in Lithuania tipped off in games with Serbia running over Italy (80:68), and a tough (89:78) French victory vs. Latvia, paved the way to the groups final match.

The final game from Group B saw a hyped contest including a recent NBA champion and finals MVP, NBA big man and several Euroleague finalist players as Germany and its biggest star Dirk Nowitzki, faced an Omri Casspi-less Israel NT, in the beautiful Siaulia Arena. According to previous games between the two teams, Germany holds an 8:5 beneficial record as Israel's last 'W' came over a decade ago 1997. Regardless to having who is called 'the best player in world today,' Germany owns a positive 7:4 exhibition game record and seems to be more prepared and ready for the tournament then Israel's 5:4 negative standing, in addition to missing their only NBA representative.

Germany - Israel 91:64

Israel's starting five included Yotam Halperin, Guy Pnini, Lior Eliyahu, Yaniv Green and Afik Nissim. Germany began with both its NBA stars Dirk Nowitzki and Chris Kaman, in addition to Robin Benzing, Johannes Herber and Heiko Schaffartzik.

A surprising low scoring first quarter began with a 3:2 Israeli lead, but the latest NBA finals MVP, Dirk Nowitzki, answered with six straight points giving Germany an 11:3 lead after 6 minutes. David Blu entered the game for Israel bringing aggressiveness to his team's defense, adding two deep back-to-back treys tying things up at 11:11 a piece. The first period ended with a minimal 15:14 German lead.

The German defense was the story of the second quarter. Missed lay-ups by Burstein, Eliyahu and Halperin helped the L.A. Clippers center give his team a 23:18 advantage midway through the second session. Halperin's bad decision with the 24-second-shot-clock running down led to two Benzing threes, giving Germany a 38:26 lead. Nowitzki with another pair of free throws ended the first half, 40:26.

Israel mentally didnt show up to second half and three minutes into the third, Kaman and Nowitzki each reached 17 points, increasing their lead to 53:31, and growing. Naimy came in for the Israelis bringing some energy but it was too little too late. Germany shot 64.5% from the field entering the final period turning the last ten minutes into a long garbage time.
Pnini banked his third three and lightened up his teammates making it 66:52, with six minutes left, but Germany called time-out and came back from it with both its NBA Stars, sealing any hopes of an Israeli comeback. Kaman reached a personal double-double sending both teams to focus on tomorrow's games. Final scoreboard showed a 91:64 Germany win.

Nowitzki led all scorers with 25 points, followed by Kaman's 18 (10 rebounds), Benzing finished with 12 and Schwetheim added 9 points and 5 boards. Guy Pnini was the only player to show-up offensively for Israel scoring 20 points (4/5 from three). Eliyahu added 11 (6 rebounds), Naimy and Halperin each finished with 7 points.

Tomorrow's games in Group B: Germany - Italy, Israel - France and Latvia - Serbia.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

Standings Div.A (Men)
Standings
Group A
1. Spain1-0
2. Lithuania1-0
3. Turkey1-0
4. Poland0-1
5. Portugal0-1
6. U.Kingdom0-1
Group B
1. France1-0
2. Germany1-0
3. Serbia1-0
4. Israel0-1
5. Italy0-1
6. Latvia0-1
Group C
1. Croatia1-0
2. Greece1-0
3. Montenegro1-0
4. FYR Macedon.0-1
5. Finland0-1
6. Bosnia0-1
Group D
1. Georgia1-0
2. Russia1-0
3. Slovenia1-0
4. Ukraine0-1
5. Belgium0-1
6. Bulgaria0-1


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Spain -Poland 83:78
Spain survived the opener against Poland to start Eurobasket 2011. The defending champions won 83:78 as Poland had a great game versus one of the favorites.
Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82) was the first to score at Eurobasket 2011 as he brought the first lead for Poland. Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) nailed three for 5:4, but then Spain needed an 8-0 run for 18:9. Szczotka meanwhile closed the first period at 22:15. Szczotka and Leonczyk cut it to 22:19 in the start of the second frame, while Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) made two free throws for 24:19. He also closed a run for his side at 29:19 and Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) made it 35:23. Juan Carlos Navarro scored his 11th points from the perimeter to give the favorites 40:25. Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) made two free throws at the end of the half for 44:31 lead after 20 minutes.
Pau Gasol opened the third period with a jump shot to give Spain 15-point advantage. Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) scored for 46:33 and his another jump-shot reduced to 50:36 midway through the third period. Juan Carlos Navarro and Szymon Szewczyk exchanged the shots for 53:40, while Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) cut it to 54:42. Leonczyk and Adam Hrycaniuk closed the third period at 61:52. Pau Gasol made it 66:57 and Juan Carlos Navarro brought another two points from the free throw line. Poland never gave up and Lukasz Koszarek delivered two for 70:65. Pau Gasol scored his 24th points for 72:65 with 3 minutes in the game. Adam Hrycaniuk reduced to 72:67 and Thomas Kelati scored for 73:69. Juan Carlos Navarro three was too much for the opponents as the Spanish player brought 77:69 on the board. Lukasz Koszarek however replied with 5 points in a row for 77:74 and Pau Gasol scored for 80:74. Lukasz Koszarek and Thomas Kelati made two free throws each for Poland to trail 2 points in the last minute. Juan Carlos Navarro gave Spain 82:78 with 16 seconds to go and Pau Gasol made the final result in the game.
Pau Gasol erupted with 29 points for the winners and Juan Carlos Navarro netted 23. Marc Gasol ended up with 16 points, while Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) added 7. Lukasz Koszarek responded with 19 points in defeat, whilst Thomas Kelati netted 18. Adam Hrycaniuk scored 12 and Szymon Szewczyk delivered 10.

Spain: Pau Gasol 29, Juan Carlos Navarro 23, Marc Gasol 16, Serge Ibaka 7
Poland: Lukasz Koszarek 19, Thomas Kelati 18, Adam Hrycaniuk 12, Szymon Szewczyk 10

Turkey-Portugal 79:56
Turkey did not have any difficulties in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. The team edged Portugal 79:56 in Group A second game.
Santos and Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79) became the first players to score for their sides at EuroBasket 2011. The score was also tied at 4:4, while Turkey took the lead later in the quarter. Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky) scored for 10:4 and Hidayet Turkoglu closed the first period for 15:9. Again Enes Kanter made four in a row for 24:11, while Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) made a jump shot for 26:13. Another 7-0 run in the middle of the second period gave the Turkish side 33:15 advantage when Enes Kanter scored his 12th points. Elvis Evora (205-C-78) and Miranda meanwhile reduced to 35:22 and the latter also nailed a three-pointer for 39:27. As it became clear after another 30 seconds in the court, that shot was the last successful in the first half.
The third quarter became decisive in the game and proved the superiority of the Turkish side. After 25-11 in it the Turks took 64:38 after 30 minutes. Tunceri increased the lead to 30 points in the start of the last frame and Silva scored for 69:40. Savas brought 72:48 for Turkey and Akyol increased to 76:48. Savas and Andrade were the last players to score for their teams to set up the final result in the game.
Enes Kanter and Hidayet Turkoglu poured in 14 points each for the winners, while Omer Onan (194-G-78) netted 10. Elvis Evora responded with 12 points in the losing effort and Silva scored 9.

Turkey: Enes Kanter 14, Hidayet Turkoglu 14, Omer Onan 10, Emir Preldzic 9
Portugal: Elvis Evora 12, Filipe Da Silva (185-F-86) 9

Lithuania-Great Britain 80:69
Lithuania got their EuroBasket off to a nervy start with an 80:69 win over Great Britain. Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Reinking upset the home side twice from the perimeter for 6:0 lead in the opening tip. Lithuania however replied with 8-0 run and took 8:6 after the shot from Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall). Luol Deng brought 14:10 for the guests and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) nailed three for 19:18 hosts advantage at the end of the first period. Another two three-pointers from the Lithuanian player saw 27:22 midway through the second frame. Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) needed three for 38:30 and Rimantas Kaukenas made two free throws for 44:35. Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) was the last to score from the free throw line for 10-point advantage at the halftime.
The third quarter was a nightmare for the home side of Eurobasket. They scored only 5 points and allowed Great Britain to post 18. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) made two free throws for 57:54 lead after thirty minutes. Ksistof Lavrinovic opened the last quarter with a jump shot and Rimantas Kaukenas gave Lithuanian 58:57. Luol Deng gave his side the lead back, while Sarunas Jasikevicius and Reinking scored for 61:60. Simas Jasaitis and Petravicius brought 65:61 for the hosts and Kalnietis later gave his side 70:63. Rimantas Kaukenas scored another one from the perimeter for 10-point lead, while Simas Jasaitis brought 76:65. Ksistof Lavrinovic and Rimantas Kaukenas improved to 15-point lead and Luol Deng reduced to 80:69 at the very end.
Rimantas Kaukenas stepped up with 16 points, while Sarunas Jasikevicius notched 13. Ksistof Lavrinovic delivered 12 and Simas Jasaitis scored 11. Luol Deng erupted with 25 points in defeat, Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 15 and Joel Freeland added 14.

Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 16, Sarunas Jasikevicius 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 12, Simas Jasaitis 11
Great Britain: Luol Deng 25, Daniel Clark 15, Joel Freeland 14

Group B
Serbia-Italy 80:68
The game between Serbia and Italy was the first one and one of the most expected in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. Serbia won 80:68 after a slow start.
Italy surprised the Serbian side with 7-0 run in the beginning of the game. Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) scored for 16:8 and he made a dunk for 8-point advantage with 1 minute in the first period, but was the last in the first frame. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) opened the second quarter, while Bjelica tied the game at 22:22. The latter also gave Serbia their first lead in the game as he made all three free throws. Milan Macvan drove a lay-up for 31:27 and Rasic was perfect from the free throw line. Serbia won the second frame 25-11 and took 35:29 at the halftime.
The third quarter started bad for Italy that failed with 0-9 run and Serbia was allowed to take 47:31. It seemed they would continue in the same way, but Italy reduced to 55:45 when Andrea Bargnani made two free throws. Moreover his 11th points in the game reduced to 55:51, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) scored for 57:51. Andrea Bargnani again cut it to 57:53 that was at the very end of the third period.
Keselj and Milan Macvan scored for 61:53 and the latter closed another run at 68:53. Milos Teodosic nailed three for 71:55 when it became clear about the winner. Andrea Bargnani cut it to 75:61, while Perovic made it 77:61. Savanovic nailed three for 80:64. Andrea Bargnani scored the last four points for Italy in the game for the final result.
Milos Teodosic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) led all the winners with 15 points each. Milan Macvan netted 14, while Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) posted 8. Andrea Bargnani ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Danilo Gallinari had 15.

Serbia: Milos Teodosic 15, Milenko Tepic 15, Milan Macvan 14, Nenad Krstic 8
Italy: Andrea Bargnani 22, Danilo Gallinari 15

Germany - Israel 91:64
Germany recorded a well-deserved win in the EuroBasket opener. Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) scored 25 points to lead them past Israel in Group B.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Germany eked out a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Dirk Nowitzki organized an 11:0 run that put Germany up by 14 points at halftime 40:26. Germany opened the second half with a 9:2 run to boost the gap. They stayed in control posting a 65:43 lead after three quarters of action. Germany kept their opponents at bay throughout the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Chris Kaman (213-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Robin Benzing added 12 points in the victory. Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) responded with 20 points for Israel. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany: Dirk Nowitzki 25, Chris Kaman 18+10 boards, Robin Benzing 12
Israel: Guy Pnini 20, Lior Eliyahu 11

France-Latvia 89:78
France expected an easier start, but had to enjoy the tough victory over Latvia. Trailing in the majority of the game France pushed the tempo for good in the second half and grabbed 89:78 win.
Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) and Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) gave France the first lead by four points, while Latvia dominated the opening period. Janis Blums (190-G-82) nailed two three-pointers in a row for 9:6 and Bertans closed the period also from the perimeter for 25:18. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) and Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88, agency: Players Group) exchanged the early baskets in the third quarter and then France erupted with 13-0 run for 33:28 lead. Mickael Gelabale and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) notched three threes for 33:28 on the board. Latvia was too far to give up and again Janis Blums and J. Strelnieks made threes for 36:35 lead. Janis Blums nailed another one to score his 20 points in the first half at 41:35, while Mickael Gelabale and Boris Diaw sent the teams to the lockers for 41:40.
France looked better in the third quarter and managed to take the lead with 10 minutes to go. After 23-18 the board showed 63:59 when Tony Parker scored for France and Bertans closed the period. Again Bertans and Strelnieks reduced to 65:63 early in the fourth, while Tchicamboud made two free throws for 67:63. Boris Diaw increased the lead to 6 points and Tony Parker delivered three for 72:65. Nicolas Batum and Mickael Gelabale netted threes for 78:70 and Tony Parker increased to 85:74. Meiers and Boris Diaw exchanged the late baskets in the game as France won the opener.
Tony Parker erupted with 31 points for the winners and Boris Diaw followed him with 14. Mickael Gelabale notched 11, whilst, Nicolas Batum and Joakim Noah (211-F/C-85, college: Florida) added 10 apiece. Janis Blums had a great game for the Baltic team scoring 32 points and Rolands Freimanis added 11.

France: Tony Parker 31, Boris Diaw 14, Mickael Gelabale 11, Nicolas Batum 10, Joakim Noah 10
Latvia: Janis Blums 32, Rolands Freimanis 11

Group C
Montenegro - FYR Macedonia 70:65 (OT)
Montenegro celebrated the first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They needed overtime to tame FYR Macedonia in Group C. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds to pace the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Montenegro eked out a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. But FYR Macedonia took over late in the second frame. Lester McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Ilievski stepped up with four straight points to give them a 30:25 halftime lead. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the third quarter. Eventually the teams entered the fourth period tied at 49. Bakic, Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) and Vranes put Montenegro up by 7 points midway through the fourth quarter but it was not enough. Lester McCalebb and Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) dragged FYR Macedonia within two points and then Stojanovski tied things up at 61 sending the game into overtime. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Vladimir Dasic put Montenegro in front at the start of the extra term and Montenegro hung on to escape with a tough win at the end. Vladimir Dragicevic posted 12 points, while Omar-Sharif Cook added 8 points in the win. Lester McCalebb answered with 17 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic had 11 points in the losing effort.

Montenegro: Vladimir Dasic 20+16 boards, Vladimir Dragicevic 12, Omar-Sharif Cook 8
FYR Macedonia: Lester McCalebb 17, Pero Antic 11

Greece-Bosnia and Herzegovina 76:67

Greece opened Eurobasket 2011 with the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trailing after the first half, the Greek side needed a strong second half to seal 76:67 win.
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with some important baskets to take the lead at the court. Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) brought 13:8, while his another points showed 17:13 on the board. Xanthopoulos closed the first period at 17:15 and Bramos reduced to 19:20. Greece stayed close to the opponent but could not tie the game. Bajramovic scored for 32:29 and he sent the teams to the lockers for 34:31. Vasiljevic and Dedovic gave Bosnia 39:35, while Nikolaos Zisis (196-G-83) tied the game at 41:41. Then it was difficult to stop Greece that found its game. After 24-15 in the third quarter they enjoyed 55:49 after three quarters. Nikolaos Zisis nailed another three for 63:56 and Koufos delivered two fro 70:58. Bramos and Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) scored the last points for the teams to set up the final result.
Nikolaos Zisis and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) top-scored for the winners with 13 points each, while Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 12. Elmedin Kikanovic ended up with 15 points in defeat and Nemanja Gordic scored 12.

Greece: Nikolaos Zisis 13, Nick Calathes 13, Ioannis Bourousis 12
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Elmedin Kikanovic 15, Nemanja Gordic 12

Croatia - Finland 84:79
Croatia registered their first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They held off Finland in a tough battle in Alytus tonight. Finland led at halftime but Croatia came from behind to snatch a tough win at the end.
Finland got to a brave start as they posted a 17:10 lead midway through the opening quarter. Croatia answered with a 10:0 run to surge ahead. But Finland eked out a 26:25 lead after ten minutes. Koivisto hit a three-pointer for a 42:31 lead for Finland midway through the second term. They hung on to post a 43:41 halftime advantage. Croatia pulled in front early in the third term and soon used a 7:0 run to make it 60:52. They arrived at the final break leading by four points 60:56. Finland cut the margin to a single point 75:76 with under two minutes remaining. However Markota drained a triple and then Krunoslav Simon and Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) sealed the winning outcome from the stripe. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) stepped up with 27 points to pace the winners. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) added 14 points, while Marco Popovic had 12 in the victory. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) answered with 14 points for Finland. Sasu Salin (190-PG-91) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 27, Ante Tomic 14, Marko Popovic 12
Finland: Petteri Koponen 14, Sasu Salin 13

Group D
Georgia - Belgium 81:59
Georgia set sail at the 2011 EuroBasket with victory. They knocked down Belgium to gain the initial win at the tournament.
Georgia used a 7:2 run early in the encounter to surge ahead. They posted a 20:11 advantage ten minutes into the game. Soon Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) opened up a double-digit lead for Georgia. The margin grew at 16-point mark in the second frame. Lauwers capped the half with a three-pointer as Belgium got within 13 points at the interval 24:37. Tornike Shengelia gave Georgia a 21-point advantage midway through the third term. Belgium managed to get within 16 points at the final break 42:58. Moors opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer to drag Belgium within 13 points 45:58. But Georgia answered with a 10:0 run to leave Belgium behind. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) stepped up with 16 points, while Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and Tornike Shengelia scored 13 points each. The first one adding 11 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Christophe Beghin (207-F-80, agency: Court Side) answered with 13 points, 6 boards and 4 assists, while Didier Mbenga (214-C-80) had 12 points in the loss.

Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 16, Viktor Sanikidze 13+11 boards, Tornike Shengelia 13
Belgium: Christophe Beghin 13, Didier Mbenga 12

Russia-Ukraine 73:64
Russia outscored Fratellos Ukraine 73:64 in the start of the Eurobasket 2011. Russia led 2 points with 3 minutes at the end but managed to produced an 8-2 run to seal the victory.
It was a slow start in the game as both teams had difficulties to score. Ukraine kept Russia scoreless for more than three minutes and took 5:0 in the opening tip. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) however tied the game at 7:7 and Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) gave Russia the first lead at 9:7. Andrei Kirilenko and Bykov scored for 15:11and for another two minutes of the last periods the teams remained scoreless. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) and Kolchenko opened the second frame for 17:14, while Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) reduced to 20:18. Burtt nailed three for 22:20 and Vitaly Fridzon tied it all with 4 minutes in the first half. Andrei Kirilenko later tied the game at 24:24, while Russia scored another 4 points in the second frame for 28:24 when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
Ukraine dominated the third period and managed to score more in the periods that in two previous. Ukraine needed a 6-0 run at the very end as Kolchenko scored four points from the free throw line and Serhiy Lishchuk made it 53:50. Russia grabbed 10-point lead in the middle of the last quarter, but Ukraine was too far to give up. Pecherov reduced to 61:55 and Zabirchenko nailed three for 63:61. Serhiy Lishchuk made one free throw for 65:62, but then Russia finished the game with 8-2 to seal the victory.
Andrei Kirilenko top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Vitaly Fridzon added 12. Shved posted 10, while Viktor Khryapa ended up with 8. Serhiy Lishchuk finished the night with 13 points and Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) notched 12.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 20, Vitaly Fridzon 12, Shved 10, Viktor Khryapa 8
Ukraine: Serhiy Lishchuk 13, Viacheslav Kravtsov 12

Slovenia - Bulgaria 67:59
Bulgaria put up a decent fight in their EuroBasket opener but surrendered against Slovenia at the end. Erazem Lorbek stepped up with 18 points and 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bulgaria led in the fourth quarter but Slovenia capped the regulation on an 11:0 run to steal a valuable win at the end.
Slovenia opened the game with five points in a row but soon Bulgaria put their noses in front 11:9. Slovenia gained back the lead late in the period accumulating a 17:13 lead at the first break. Erazem Lorbek and Udrih gave Slovenia a 23:14 lead midway through the second term. Bulgaria managed to narrow the gap to just 4 points at the interval. Kostov put Bulgaria as close as one early in the third term but Slovenia reacted with eight points in a row to clear off. They ensured a 47:40 lead at the final intermission. Earl Rowland scored 7 points in an 11:0 run as Bulgaria grabbed a 57:51 lead with under five minutes to go. But Slovenia came back from behind and sealed the victory at the end. Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) finished with 13 points, 6 boards and 6 assists, while Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) contributed 12 points in the win. Earl Rowland answered with 20 points for Bulgaria. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) posted 14 points in the loss.

Slovenia: Erazem Lorbek 18, Goran Dragic 13, Zoran Dragic 12
Bulgaria: Earl Rowland 20, Filip Videnov 14


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  FIBA AMERICAS   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Dominican R.1-0
2. Brazil1-0
3. Canada0-0
4. Cuba0-1
5. Venezuela0-1
Group B
1. Argentina1-0
2. P.Rico1-0
3. Uruguay0-0
4. Panama0-1
5. Paraguay0-1


Day One in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Brazil - Venezuela 92-83
Brazil celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. They handed 92-83 loss to Venezuela for 1-0 score in Group A. Brazil had five players with double-digits in scoring yesterday. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) was the leading one with 17 points, plus he had 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) (7 as) and Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) (6 rebs) had 16 points each, Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 15 and Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) had 11 pts. In Venezuela, Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) responded with 26 points and 7 assists. Gregory Echenique (205-C-90) (7 rebs) and David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) posted 12 and 11 points respectively. Their team has 0-1 now. Participants of Group A are also Cuba, Dominican Republic and Canada. Quarters: 25-26, 14-18, 27-25, 26-14. Brazil will play against Canada today. Venezuela will take on strong Dominican Republic.

Dominican Republic - Cuba 90-60
Dominican Republic opened FIBA Americas Championship 2011 in style. They destroyed Cuba 90-60 for 1-0 record in Group A. Participants of the same pool are also Canada, Venezuela and Brazil. Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) shined for the winners with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) had double-double of 16 points and 10 boards, while Edgar Sosa (188-PG-88, college: Louisville) helped with 14 pts. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) delivered 11 pts in this meeting. In the loosing squad, Yoan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) was better than the others with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Lisvan Valdez (194-G/F-88) and Yudniel Perez (189-G-84) had 15 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 18-8, 20-11, 31-18, 21-23. In Day Two, Dominican Republic will meet Venezuela. Cuba will take a break.

Group B
Paraguay - Argentina 52-84
Argentina cruised past Paraguay 84-52 in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. The host of this event has 1-0 in Group B. Panama, Puerto Rico and Uruguay are also participants of this pool. Argentina took control on Paraguay from the beginning and never looked back. Alfredo Quinteros (186-G-79) led the hosts with 19 points (valuation 22). Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) had 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) helped with 12 points and 8 boards. Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) and Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances) added 10 points and 5 rebounds each. On the other side, Paraguay got 18 points from Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82). Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, college: Merrimack) and Jose Fabio (198-F-77) (9 rebs) scored 13 and 11 pts respectively. Quarters: 8-27, 15-18, 17-24, 12-15. Argentina will meet Uruguay in Day Two. Paraguay will play against Puerto Rico.

Panama - Puerto Rico 66-99
Puerto Rico exploded in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Mar del Plata. They smashed Panama 99-66 for 1-0 score in Group B. Of course, Panama has 0-1 now. Their rivals in this pool are Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) came of the bench for Puerto Rico to score 16 points and grab 5 rebounds. Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Ricardo Sanchez (212-C/F-87) and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) (7 as) netted 12 and 11 points respectively. In Panama, Ruben Garces (206-C/F-73, agency: Priority Sports, college: Providence) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Jose Lloreda (201-F/C-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU) (6 rebs) also scored 16 points and Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85, college: Virginia) (5 rebs) had two less than him. Quarters: 8-18, 20-23, 18-25, 20-33. Puerto Rico will play against Paraguay today. Panama will have a day-off.

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


EuroBasket 2011: Croatia survive scare, edge Finland - by Eurobasket News
Croatia - Finland 84:79

Croatia registered their first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They held off Finland in a tough battle in Alytus tonight. Finland led at halftime but Croatia came from behind to snatch a tough win at the end.
Finland got to a brave start as they posted a 17:10 lead midway through the opening quarter. Croatia answered with a 10:0 run to surge ahead. But Finland eked out a 26:25 lead after ten minutes. Koivisto hit a three-pointer for a 42:31 lead for Finland midway through the second term. They hung on to post a 43:41 halftime advantage. Croatia pulled in front early in the third term and soon used a 7:0 run to make it 60:52. They arrived at the final break leading by four points 60:56. Finland cut the margin to a single point 75:76 with under two minutes remaining. However Markota drained a triple and then Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) and Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) sealed the winning outcome from the stripe. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) stepped up with 27 points to pace the winners. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) added 14 points, while Marco Popovic had 12 in the victory. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) answered with 14 points for Finland. Sasu Salin (190-PG-91) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 27, Ante Tomic 14, Marko Popovic 12
Finland: Petteri Koponen 14, Sasu Salin 13


EUROBASKET: Finland close to an upset - by Rauno Hurmalainen
EuroBasket, Lithuania 2011. The tournament got started today and being 16 years away and aside, Finland opened the games so well vs Croatia, that even the victory was not far away. The result anyway 84-79 (41-43) for Croatia. Quarters: 25-26, 16-17, 19-13, 24-23. Finland had a 17-10 lead during the first quarter and 42-31 lead during the second quarter, but unfortunately Finland NT was one number too small and lost the rebounds 43-28. Finland also missed too many 'easy' lay-ups and finally Croatia was saved by sharpshooter Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89), who scored game high 27 points (treys 6/8). Finland was shooting the 3-pointers with 75% accuracy (6/8) during the opening quarter, but later that kind of 'christmas' didn't continue. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) led Finland with 14 points.
Group C (Alytus):
Montenegro - F.Y.R. of Macedonia OT 70-65 (61) (25-30). Greece - Bosnia and Herzegovina 76-67 (31-34). Croatia - Finland 84-79 (41-43). Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 27/7, Ante Tonic 14/8, Marko Popovic 12, Damir Markota 11/7. 1 - 80,8% (21/26), 2 - 58,1% (18/31), 3 - 37,5% (9/24). R: 30+13=43. TO: 20. Finland: Petteri Koponen 14/6a, Sasu Salin 13, Shawn Huff 11, Gerald Lee Jr 7/3, Kimmo Muurinen 7/1, Tuukka Kotti 6/9. 1 - 71,4% (20/28), 2 - 33,3% (13/39), 3 - 40,7% (11/27). R: 14+14=28. TO: 9.
Next Games 1.9.: Bosnia and Herzegovina - Montenegro at 15:30, Finland - Greece at 18:00, F.Y.R. of Macedonia - Croatia at 21:00.



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


EuroBasket 2011: The late push saves France over the Baltic State - by Eurobasket News
France-Latvia 89:78

France expected an easier start, but had to enjoy the tough victory over Latvia. Trailing in the majority of the game France pushed the tempo for good in the second half and grabbed 89:78 win.
Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) and Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) gave France the first lead by four points, while Latvia dominated the opening period. Janis Blums (190-G-82) nailed two three-pointers in a row for 9:6 and Bertans closed the period also from the perimeter for 25:18. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) and Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88, agency: Players Group) exchanged the early baskets in the third quarter and then France erupted with 13-0 run for 33:28 lead. Mickael Gelabale and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) notched three threes for 33:28 on the board. Latvia was too far to give up and again Janis Blums and J. Strelnieks made threes for 36:35 lead. Janis Blums nailed another one to score his 20 points in the first half at 41:35, while Mickael Gelabale and Boris Diaw sent the teams to the lockers for 41:40.
France looked better in the third quarter and managed to take the lead with 10 minutes to go. After 23-18 the board showed 63:59 when Tony Parker scored for France and Bertans closed the period. Again Bertans and Strelnieks reduced to 65:63 early in the fourth, while Tchicamboud made two free throws for 67:63. Boris Diaw increased the lead to 6 points and Tony Parker delivered three for 72:65. Nicolas Batum and Mickael Gelabale netted threes for 78:70 and Tony Parker increased to 85:74. Meiers and Boris Diaw exchanged the late baskets in the game as France won the opener.
Tony Parker erupted with 31 points for the winners and Boris Diaw followed him with 14. Mickael Gelabale notched 11, whilst, Nicolas Batum and Joakim Noah (211-F/C-85, college: Florida) added 10 apiece. Janis Blums had a great game for the Baltic team scoring 32 points and Rolands Freimanis added 11.

France: Tony Parker 31, Boris Diaw 14, Mickael Gelabale 11, Nicolas Batum 10, Joakim Noah 10
Latvia: Janis Blums 32, Rolands Freimanis 11


Cholet and Orchies achieved the victories on Tuesday - by Eurobasket News
Cholet and Orchies achieved the victories on Tuesday in the friendly clashes against the opponenets. Cholet overcame Le Mans 100:75. The home side opened the game with 22:11 and had 15-point advantage at the halftime. Moreover 31-17 in the third period brought them 81:52. Le Mans meanwhile won the last period 23-19, but allowed Cholet to post three digits on the board. Derrick Byars (202-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Vanderbilt) poured in 15 points and Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) added 13. Talor Battle (182-PG-88, college: Penn St.) followed them with 12, while Falker, Gobert and Gradit had 11 each. Batista ended up with 18 points in the losing case, while Rochestie posted 15.
Orchies surprised Chalons-Reims 75:71. NM1 team overcame Pro B representative after a strong start. Orchies started with 27:15 in the opening period and had 41:30 at the halftime. They managed to lead the score and won the game. Djordje Petrovic (202-F-84) stepped up with 14 points and Antoine Belkessa (185-G-88) as well as Jahsha Bluntt (198-G-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Delaware St.) netted 13 each. Daniels responded with 21 points in the losing effort, while Carter netted 15.


Kyle McAlarney out at least 3 weeks - by Eurobasket News
Kyle McAlarney (183-PG-87, college: Notre Dame) will miss next 3-4 weeks due to injury. The American point guard sprained right ankle, but he will be ready on time for the beginning of French championship. McAlarney joined CSP Limoges recently. He penned a one-year deal with the club. McAlarney arrived from Ikaros Kallitheas, where he spent last season. For 25 games in Greek A1 league McAlarney averaged 12.8 points, 1.6 rebounds and 2 assists. Season 2009/10 he split between Fort Wayne Mad Ants and Springfield Armor. Both competed in NBA D-League. Kyle McAlarney is a product of the Notre Dame University, where he graduated in 2009. They reached NIT Final Four that year.

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


EuroBasket 2011: Montenegro register first win in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - FYR Macedonia 70:65 (OT)

Montenegro celebrated the first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They needed overtime to tame FYR Macedonia in Group C. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds to pace the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Montenegro eked out a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. But FYR Macedonia took over late in the second frame. Lester McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Ilievski stepped up with four straight points to give them a 30:25 halftime lead. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the third quarter. Eventually the teams entered the fourth period tied at 49. Bakic, Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) and Vranes put Montenegro up by 7 points midway through the fourth quarter but it was not enough. Lester McCalebb and Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) dragged FYR Macedonia within two points and then Stojanovski tied things up at 61 sending the game into overtime. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Vladimir Dasic put Montenegro in front at the start of the extra term and Montenegro hung on to escape with a tough win at the end. Vladimir Dragicevic posted 12 points, while Omar-Sharif Cook added 8 points in the win. Lester McCalebb answered with 17 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic had 11 points in the losing effort.

Montenegro: Vladimir Dasic 20+16 boards, Vladimir Dragicevic 12, Omar-Sharif Cook 8
FYR Macedonia: Lester McCalebb 17, Pero Antic 11


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


EuroBasket 2011: Georgia open with big win over Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Georgia - Belgium 81:59

Georgia set sail at the 2011 EuroBasket with victory. They knocked down Belgium to gain the initial win at the tournament.
Georgia used a 7:2 run early in the encounter to surge ahead. They posted a 20:11 advantage ten minutes into the game. Soon Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) opened up a double-digit lead for Georgia. The margin grew at 16-point mark in the second frame. Lauwers capped the half with a three-pointer as Belgium got within 13 points at the interval 24:37. Tornike Shengelia gave Georgia a 21-point advantage midway through the third term. Belgium managed to get within 16 points at the final break 42:58. Moors opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer to drag Belgium within 13 points 45:58. But Georgia answered with a 10:0 run to leave Belgium behind. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) stepped up with 16 points, while Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and Tornike Shengelia scored 13 points each. The first one adding 11 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Christophe Beghin (207-F-80, agency: Court Side) answered with 13 points, 6 boards and 4 assists, while Didier Mbenga (214-C-80) had 12 points in the loss.

Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 16, Viktor Sanikidze 13+11 boards, Tornike Shengelia 13
Belgium: Christophe Beghin 13, Didier Mbenga 12


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


Philipp Schwethelm (German National Team) ) I Have Never Heard A Single Bad Word About Dirk And It's All True. - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 22 year old 201cm forward that was born in Gummersbach and is currently in Lithuania participating in the 2011 European Championship and will embark with FC Bayern Munich in the 2011-2012 Beko BBL season. He started his basketball career in 2004 with the Koeln cadet team. He played for Rhein Energy Cologne from 2004-2009. He already played Eurocup at age 16. In total, he played 61 BEKO BBL games in his 5 years. He also played 2 Euroleague games, 8ULEB Cup games and 3 Eurocup games. In 2010-2011 for Bremerhaven, he played games 44 games averaging 7.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 67.8%. He played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven fro 2009-2011 and last season played 36 games: 10.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 44.9%, FT: 72.9%. He has achieved numerous awards in his career including U16 National Team -05-06,FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals -06, International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -06: 6 games: 5.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 55.6%, German U18 National Team -06-07, German Bundesliga U-19 All-Star Game -07, European Championships U18 in Madrid (Spain) -07: 8 games: 8.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 56.5%, 3FGP: 47.6%, German Bundesliga U-20 All-Star Game -08, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Newcomer of the Year -08, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Newcomers Team -08, German U20 National Team -08-09, European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 8 games: 10.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 77.8%, European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09: 6 games: 11.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 78.6%, German Bundesliga Semifinals -10, German National Team -10,World Championships in Turkey -10: 5 games: 4.4ppg, 1.0apg, and German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11. Phil took some time to talk to eurobasket about the 2011 European Championships.

Last summer there was no Dirk and Chris Kaman. Now both are on board. How intense has the whole atmosphere on and off the court been for you?

Like last year everbody gives a 100% and tries to do everything possible to win. What changed now is the fact that we got higher aims. We are trying to get under the top 6 teams at least. Off the court everything stays the same. We got a great team chemistry which is definitely one of our biggest strength. Ofcourse more people in Germany are interested in basketball now which makes everything become more fun.

Dirk Nowitzki belongs to the best players on earth now. What things have surprised you most about the player and person Dirk Nowitzki?

People told me a lot about Dirk, before I met him the first time. I have never heard a single bad word about Dirk and its all true. I was wondering before, if people might exaggerate a little bit, but they dont. He is a great teammate.

How important were the two wins against Macedonia last weekend in Munich and Berlin? How prepared is the German national team for the 2011 European championships?

We are used the games to find our rhythm as a team and to get to know each other better. I think we did a good job until now. We take the confidence of the two wins and trying to take it into the tournament, but everything starts from now on. Everything what happened before doesnt count now.

What is your biggest goal on the court at your position besides winning and defending well?

To be a good teammate.

The first game is against Israel? This is a game Germany should win, but one should never underestimate them! What will be key in getting the win?

Its important to find our rhythm early and start the tournament off with a win. But in this group everything can happen- especially at the first game. So we got to be ready from the get go. We have to play controlled, and good team basketball in the offense and off course be tough on defense.

Which German non NBA player national player has impressed you most in the last weeks in practice and games and why.

I think our biggest strength is that we play as a team and everbody is patient and does everything what he can do to win a basketabll game. So on everyday somebody can step up and have a great game, so its hard to point somebody out. We are one unit!

What have you learned from Chris Kamin the last week that you didnt know before?


Chris is probably one of the funniest teammates ive ever had. its great to have him on the team. He really tries to help us young guys on the court with his experience and off the court he is always good for a joke.

Thanks Phil for the chat

Justin Gray Makes One Forget The Departure Of Dashaun Wood Just A Bit Leading The Fraport Skyliners Past Japan 89-73 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
It was 90 days ago where the Deutsche Bank Skyliners were as rudely kicked out of the semi finals of the 2011 Beko BBL playoffs by 8 time champion Alba Berlin in their own living room three times as if society lady Paris Hilton had been declined a room in a Hilton hotel in Paris and banned to a kitchen closet. With ex Skyliners DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) climbing the Great wall of China, Roger Powell (198-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Illinois) getting ready for his first tour of duty as an assistant coach with Valparaiso, Dominik Bahiense De Mello looking for a rain coat and playing one on one with ex NBA player Bobby Brown (188-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) in Oldenburg, Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86, college: Michigan) getting ready to take flight in Holland with Leiden and Pascal Roller (180-G-76) going about his dad role more thoroughly and giving reliable basketball information on Sport 1, basketball life in Frankfurt was starting all over again now with Fraport on board. Frankfurt played their first official exhibition game in preparation for the upcoming season beating the Japanese national team 89-73, but memories of last season were still around with players. It is always important to look forward, but we had a great season last year. We had great team chemistry and 90% of it had to do with Gordie Herbert. I am very happy for DaShaun Wood and my big brother Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) for winning the tournament in China. They are great guys and we will always have long term friendships. I think that Muli Katzurin will be able to bring team chemistry to this team. He is laid back, but can be tough to, but he just wants the best out of us. The biggest difference to last years team is that we are bigger inside this year, stressed Skyliner guard Jimmy Mckinney. We had good outside shooters last season, but this season with Gray Justin (188-G-84, college: Wake Forest) we have a real knock down three point shooter, stressed Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) It is always nice not to forget the past, but fans that witnessed the win saw a new team that has a lot of potential. The Fraport Skyliners were never seriously in danger of losing against Japan. We were unselfish and ran the floor well. We got easy buckets on transition which helped, stated 2011 Milwauke Bucks NBA draft pick Jon Leuer (208-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wisconsin) (208-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wisconsin) If it hadnt been for the sharp shooting of Keijuro Matusis 26 points, Japan could of gone back to their hotel rooms at half time to watch the start of Germany-Israel as they would have been blown away early. We gave up too many wide open shots. We played zone, but they moved the ball well. Our defense broke down. We like to play a fast paced game which we did more in the second half. We were more aggressive and got more stops, stated ex Columbia guard Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85, college: Columbia) We played together as a team, were aggressive and executed our offense, added Fraport Skyliner guard Quantez Robertson

The BCM training facility wasnt filled to capacity, but more than usual came out to support the first official appearance of the Fraport Skyliners and werent disappointed as the club quickly led 6-1. It is no secret that the success of a club is based on team basketball, but also quite obvious that a lot of the success will depend on the strong play of ex NBA player Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) and 2011 NBA Draft pick Jon Leuer this season. Both combined for the first three buckets. Both scored inside and one quickly could see the immense athletic ability of Davidson who is nearly unstoppable in the paint. As quickly as Frankfurt went on a run, Japan countered back with their own 6-3 run to trail only 9-7. Joji Takeuchi (206-F/C-85, agency: N.E.T.)i scored twice and Takumi Ishzaki scored inside. Last season more often than not it was DaShaun Wood that would get Frankfurt going and half way through the first quarter it was sharp shooter Gray Justin who scored three times from down town as he might have had the BCM rims in good memory after his visit back in 2008 with Nymburk in a test game against Murat Didin. Frankfurt led 15-7, but Japan always had a trick in their pocket as they went on a mini 4-0 run with free throws and Tomoo Amno scoring on a pick and roll closing the gap to 15-11. Having a DaShaun Wood or Gray Justin explode for a quick 5-0 run is as normal as seeing Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) Di-Ba commercials on German TV, but having German Fabian Franke (198-F-88) score 5 unanswered points is a bit harder to believe, but the German was as focused as ever and seemed to have gained some self confidence over the summer as he scored on a back door and then nailed a three pointer with a high rainbow that seemed like it might nip the BCM ceiling as Frankfurt led 20-11. Japan closed out the first quarter 5-3, but the Fraport Skyliners still led 23-16. Frankfurt was shooting 60%from the field and 67% from outside while Japan was shooting only 38% from the field and 0% from outside. Japan had the slight 9-8 rebound edge and four turnovers while Frankfurt had five turnovers.

Even though both teams started out sloppy in the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were still better clawing themselves out on a 9-3 run to lead 32-19. Frankfurt was getting production from every one as 4 different players scored starting with a Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops) lay in on the fast break, Quantez Robertson dropping a three point bomb from the corner, Gray Justin showing his speed scoring inside and Jermareo Davidson scoring inside on one of his many lay ins that easily could have been dunks. I think Davidson is more athletic than most five men in the league. He can handle the ball very well and step away from the basket and shoot it well, stressed Quantez Robertson The Fraport Skyliners continued to work on extending their lead as ex Paderborn center Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops) drew two fouls, but only made 2/4 shots and Quantez Robertson showed a flash of brilliance nailing another three pointer and then splitting the defense getting past three players and scoring on a lay up as Japan trailed Frankfurt 40-27. The Fraport Skyliners went into halftime closing out the scoring 8-5 as American Jon Leuer scored all 8 points. Leuer has the height to get double figure rebounds, but he also shoots unbelievably well for his height from anywhere on the court. All four buckets were on mid distance jumpers and he saved the best for last hitting a beautiful step back jumper showing this beautiful soft touch which one doesnt see too often at the Beko BBL level. Leuer is very aggressive on offense and defense. He also is a great rebounder and defender. I would try everything to keep him here if the NBA called him, warned Quantez Robertson Frankfurt led 48-32 at halftime. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 60% from the field and 67% from the three point line while Japan was shooting 32% from the field and only 15% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 20-16 rebound edge, but nine turnovers while Japan had seven turnovers.

In the third quarter, it seemed like both teams had had a short winter hibernation as they came out sluggish on the court and for the first 2.25 minutes there were no points scored, but then a big roar erupted in the BCM gym as if Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) had just entered the building as Gray Justin lobbed up a pass towards the hoop and Super Tez Robertson took full flight and dunked the ball into the basket as Frankfurt led 50-32. Gray Justin than figured in the next three baskets as he first set up Jon Leuer for a lay up, then nailed a three pointer as Jon Leuer displayed his Harlem Globetrotter skills making a cute behind the back pass at the three point line to Gray and then the Wake Forest alumnist scored on a coast to coast sprint as the Fraport Skyliners led comfortably 57-36. However from this moment on Japan got more aggressive and made it very difficult for Frankfurt on offense contesting much more shots and limiting them to one shot as they closed out the third quarter with a 17-6 run to trail only 63-53. Keijuro Matusi was very hot in this run continuing his shooting clinic knocking down shots from all over the court. He also scored inside as did Ryota Sakurati as Frankfurt had some let downs on switching. The lone bright spot in this big Japan run for Frankfurt were in the waning seconds of the third quarter as the clock was winding down and Gray Justin who was being pressured by two defenders nailed a fade away jumper at the buzzer to preserve the 63-53 lead. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 52% from the field and 50% from the parking lot while Japan was shooting 37% from the field and 28% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 31-26 rebound edge, but 14 turnovers while Japan had 10 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners quickly took care of business in the first few minutes of the fourth quarter as they still had much energy while Japan seemed to wilt like a dying flower as they allowed the German team to go on a 18-3 run to lead 81-56 and decide the game. Jon Leuer started the big run with a jumper. Fraport Sklyiner head coach Muli katzurin then inserted little used German talent Falko Thelig who quickly responded with a sharp pass to Davidson who just had to lay it in. Thelig then got on the board going hard to the hoop from the wing not shying away from getting banged. Gray Justin then scored in bunches with a three pointer, then stole the ball and went to the hoop and demonstrated a slick spin move and quick bucket as Frankfurt led 75-56. Davidson then continued to show his dangerous play in the low post scoring twice as Frankfurt led more than comfortably 81-56. Japan didnt want to leave Germany with another blow out and found their composure in the last five minutes giving more intensity on defense and closing out the game with a 17-8 run not to totally be blown out of the BCM. Matusi continued to show his shooting skills scoring from downtown a few times and Joji Takeuchi scored on a thunderous dunk and Tomoo Amno also scored. With a few minutes to go, Muli Katzurin filled the floor with German players with Falko Theilg, Danilo Bartel, Jan Novak (199-G/F-92), Amil Klisura (197-G/F-89) and Tim Oldenburg (202-C-92) Ex USC Heidelberg German Danilo Barthel (206-F-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) closed out the scoring with a lay up as the Fraport Skyliners beat the Japanese national team with out any problems 89-73.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Gray Justin with 24 points, six rebounds and six assists. Jermareo Davidson added 15 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Jon Leuer added 14 points, nine rebounds and five assists and Quantez Robertson contributed 14 points also. The Japan national team was led by Keijuro Matusi with 26 points (8/10 three pointers). Joji Takeuchi added 14 points and Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85) added 10 points. Gray has played in Europe most of his professional life, but recently averaged 24 points a game in the Chinese league and seemed at home against the Asian team. In Asia, the basketball is more open court while in Europe it is more of a half court game. I think that is why many Americans go to China. You have more freedom there and can just shoot when your open, stressed American Gray Justin.

The Fraport Skyliners did a good job shooting 55% from the field and 47% from outside. They won the rebounding battle 38-32 and points in the paint 44-24, but it wasnt a real test as Japan wasnt really very big inside. It is still very early and as the team will depart for Treviso, Italy for a one week training camp, there is still a lot to do and the one thing that still has to improve is the favorite Pat Riley slogan about defense winning championships. We have enough guys that can score, but we have to work on defense. Defense is always something that we can control, warned Wisconsin graduate Jon Leuer The Fraport Skyliners were caught napping a few times and know that they have to get back quicker on defense. We can work on our transition defense at getting better. Coach is having us work hard. We just have to continue doing that and not get down on ourselves, added Gray Justin. For Japan national player Keijuro Matusi who lists Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) as the best player he ever played against was more than impressed with the Fraport Skyliners. They are a good team despite not being full yet. They are well structured and coached. They have good scorers and their big men finish well, stressed Keijuro Matsui For Matusi who will be back in Japan this weekend, he will be following the Euro 2011 in Lithuania especially Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78). I remember watching Germany at the World Championships in 2006 in Japan. I think Germany will do ok and with Nowitzki on board have better chances. I remember when I was at Columbia, the Dallas Mavericks came and practiced in our gym before a New York Knicks game. I remember talking to Nowitzki. He was very friendly and his shooting that day in practice was unbelievable, added Keijuro Matsui The Fraport Skyliners depart for Treviso, Italy for a one week training camp that will include games against Italian teams.


EuroBasket 2011: Germany too good for Israel - by Eurobasket News
Germany - Israel 91:64

Germany recorded a well-deserved win in the EuroBasket opener. Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) scored 25 points to lead them past Israel in Group B.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Germany eked out a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Dirk Nowitzki organized an 11:0 run that put Germany up by 14 points at halftime 40:26. Germany opened the second half with a 9:2 run to boost the gap. They stayed in control posting a 65:43 lead after three quarters of action. Germany kept their opponents at bay throughout the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Chris Kaman (213-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Robin Benzing added 12 points in the victory. Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) responded with 20 points for Israel. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany: Dirk Nowitzki 25, Chris Kaman 18+10 boards, Robin Benzing 12
Israel: Guy Pnini 20, Lior Eliyahu 11


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


EuroBasket 2011: Greece opened the campaign with the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
Greece-Bosnia and Herzegovina 76:67

Greece opened Eurobasket 2011 with the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trailing after the first half, the Greek side needed a strong second half to seal 76:67 win.
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with some important baskets to take the lead at the court. Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) brought 13:8, while his another points showed 17:13 on the board. Xanthopoulos closed the first period at 17:15 and Bramos reduced to 19:20. Greece stayed close to the opponent but could not tie the game. Bajramovic scored for 32:29 and he sent the teams to the lockers for 34:31. Vasiljevic and Dedovic gave Bosnia 39:35, while Nikolaos Zisis (196-G-83) tied the game at 41:41. Then it was difficult to stop Greece that found its game. After 24-15 in the third quarter they enjoyed 55:49 after three quarters. Nikolaos Zisis nailed another three for 63:56 and Koufos delivered two fro 70:58. Bramos and Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) scored the last points for the teams to set up the final result.
Nikolaos Zisis and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) top-scored for the winners with 13 points each, while Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 12. Elmedin Kikanovic ended up with 15 points in defeat and Nemanja Gordic scored 12.

Greece: Nikolaos Zisis 13, Nick Calathes 13, Ioannis Bourousis 12
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Elmedin Kikanovic 15, Nemanja Gordic 12


NBA player Corey Maggette arrives to Thessaloniki today, negotiates with PAOK - by Eurobasket News
Corey Maggette (198-G-79, college: Duke) is expected to land in Thessaloniki today. The NBA player negotiates a deal with PAOK. He will take a tour around the city and visit team facilities. It is expected that Maggette will make his decision until the end of the week. Corey Maggette had 12 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.3 apg for the Milwaukee Bucks last season. He appeared in 67 NBA games. From 2008 until the last summer Maggette played for the Golden State Warriors. He exploded with 19.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 2.5 apg in their second season together (70 games). In the past, Maggette spent eight years with the Los Angeles Clippers. His best season with the Clippers came in 2007/08. He had 22.1 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.7 apg for 70 games. Corey Maggette earned $9,600,000 last season with the Bucks.

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  HOLLAND   


Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
 1. Bergen op Zoom 0-0 
 2. Den Bosch 0-0 
 3. Groningen 0-0 
 4. Leeuwarden 0-0 
 5. Leiden 0-0 
 6. Nijmegen 0-0 
 7. Rotterdam 0-0 
 8. Weert 0-0 
 9. Zwolle 0-0 


Standings - Promotie Divisie
Prom.Divisie Standings
 1. Akrides 0-0 
 2. Almonte 0-0 
 3. Amsterdam 0-0 
 4. Binnenland 0-0 
 5. Cangeroes 0-0 
 6. De Groene 0-0 
 7. De Hoppers 0-0 
 8. Goba 0-0 
 9. Hoofddorp 0-0 
 10. Jugglers 0-0 
 11. Leiden 2 0-0 
 12. Punch 0-0 
 13. Red Giants 0-0 
 14. Rotterdam 2 0-0 


Nick Oudendag joins Assignia Manresa for training camp - by Eurobasket News
Dutch center Nick Oudendag (210-C/F-87) joined Spanish team Assignia Manresa for the training camp. He will help the team in upcoming friendly games. Oudendag had 8.3 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen last season. He helped them reach Dutch league Semifinals. In 2009/10, Oudendag averaged 9.1 points and 5.7 rebounds with the same team. Before Nijmegen, Nick Oudendag played for Antwerp Giants. He was a member of the Nijmegen also in 2006/07. Nick Oudendag played for Dutch National Team in 2009. He appeared in three official games with them. In the past, Oudendag played for U20 and U18 Holland.

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


Former NBA player moves to Hungary - by Tamas Deri
The management of MJUS-Fortresss Kormend published some hours ago, that american small forward Kasib Powell (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Texas Tech) agreed with the club for the coming season. The 201 cm tall, 30 years old Powell is a very experienced player. He graduated on the Universtiy of Texas Tech in 2003 and got Honorable Mentions in the BIG 12 conference as a junior and senior. He started his professional carreer with Reflex Beograd but left the team and finished his first european season with PAOK in Greece averaging 10.6ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.5spg in 23 games. He spent two seasons in the USA before moving back to Europe to play for Bosna Sarajevo and Spartak St. Petersburg. In the season 2007-08 he was running an amazing season with Sioux Falls Skyforce averaging 22.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 69.6%. In March 2008 he got a call-up from the Miami Heat and Kasib showed his great skills also in the NBA. In his best game of his NBA carreer he scored 18 points and grabbed 6 rebounds against Chicago Bulls, he scored 15 against Knicks and 14 against Pacers. In the same season he was an D-League All-Star and got voted to the MVP of the league. After the best season of his carreer he decided to play in China and finished the season in the D-League again. He spent one season in Greece before moving to Israeal last summer, where he averaged 11.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg for Hapoel Holon in 31 games of the Premier League.



*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


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


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  ISRAEL   


Macc Tel Aviv and Macc Haifa Reach Agreement Regarding Sean Labanowski - by David Pick
Maccabi Tel Aviv and Maccabi Haifa recently came to an agreement on terms of a three-year-deal regarding the young Israeli high-flying talent -- Sean Labanowski, this, first reported by Eurobasket.

In light of the intense player additions to Tel Aviv's roster, the Israeli champions were concerned that Sean's growth as a player would be damaged and decided that the best possibility for both sides would be a move up north to Haifa. Labanowski senior, Kenny Labanowski, was a 6-foot-8 forward who played in Israel 1981 for Maccabi's city rivals Hapoel Tel Aviv. Labanowski was known to be a fierce competitor playing with great passion.

'I would like to thank the Maccabi T.A. organization for the opportunity they gave me of playing at such as high level,' Labanowski told Eurobasket, 'I was hoping to get an opportunity of playing in the NCAA but once you've played professionally, it's impossible to join a college team. I'm fully dedicated to working hard every day and proving myself worthy of playing for Haifa. It's a new challenge and I'm looking forward to it.'

The young Labanowski took part in Israel's national youth teams tournaments including the 2008 European Championships U16 in Italy, 2009 European Championships U18 in Metz (France), and this summer's European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia), averaging 4.4ppg and 2.6rpg.

In Haifa, Labanowski will join a full Israeli roster including Guy Iosifovich, Tamir Ariely, Avi Ben-Chimol, Daniel Aidan, Simon Farine and Sylven Landesberg.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

Sharon Shason Retires From Basketball at the Age of 32 - by David Pick
At the age of 32, after 13 seasons in Israel's top league and one more abroad, Israeli forward Sharon Shason decided to hang up his kicks for the last time and retired from what he called 'the love of my life basketball.'

'After a long period of time I devoted to thinking what was the best move for me, I have decided along with my family, that due to the injury's I've suffered in recent seasons it is now time for me to retire. I want to thank everyone who shared the love of the game with me including the teams I've played for in the past, and I wish to say that I'm not completely leaving the game, as I will try and stay close, devoting myself to the young generation of players,' added Shason.

The talented forward who started playing pro ball at just 17-years of age achieved two Israeli league titles and three state-cups. He played 56 games representing his country scoring 318 points. Throughout his career Sharon posted 2036 points in 240 games.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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


EuroBasket 2011: Serbia dash Italian hopes with early flurry - by Eurobasket News
Serbia-Italy 80:68

The game between Serbia and Italy was the first one and one of the most expected in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. Serbia won 80:68 after a slow start.
Italy surprised the Serbian side with 7-0 run in the beginning of the game. Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) scored for 16:8 and he made a dunk for 8-point advantage with 1 minute in the first period, but was the last in the first frame. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) opened the second quarter, while Bjelica tied the game at 22:22. The latter also gave Serbia their first lead in the game as he made all three free throws. Milan Macvan drove a lay-up for 31:27 and Rasic was perfect from the free throw line. Serbia won the second frame 25-11 and took 35:29 at the halftime.
The third quarter started bad for Italy that failed with 0-9 run and Serbia was allowed to take 47:31. It seemed they would continue in the same way, but Italy reduced to 55:45 when Andrea Bargnani made two free throws. Moreover his 11th points in the game reduced to 55:51, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) scored for 57:51. Andrea Bargnani again cut it to 57:53 that was at the very end of the third period.
Keselj and Milan Macvan scored for 61:53 and the latter closed another run at 68:53. Milos Teodosic nailed three for 71:55 when it became clear about the winner. Andrea Bargnani cut it to 75:61, while Perovic made it 77:61. Savanovic nailed three for 80:64. Andrea Bargnani scored the last four points for Italy in the game for the final result.
Milos Teodosic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) led all the winners with 15 points each. Milan Macvan netted 14, while Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) posted 8. Andrea Bargnani ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Danilo Gallinari had 15.

Serbia: Milos Teodosic 15, Milenko Tepic 15, Milan Macvan 14, Nenad Krstic 8
Italy: Andrea Bargnani 22, Danilo Gallinari 15



*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Rose moves from Syria to Mexico - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) added to their roster 28-year old Jamaican center Daniel Rose (208-C-83, college: Cedarville). Rose played most recently at Al Wathba (Syria). It was a great season when he was voted Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League Defensive Player of the Year. The previous year he spent in China playing for ShenYang Dongjin in the summer league. In 20 games he averaged solid 16.0ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.1spg and 4.0bpg (#1 in the league). Rose graduated Cedarville University in 2009 and it will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


Standings - JBL
JBL Standings
 1. Aishin SH 0-0 
 2. Hitachi SR 0-0 
 3. Hokkaido L. 0-0 
 4. Mitsubishi DD 0-0 
 5. Panasonic T. 0-0 
 6. Tochigi Brex 0-0 
 7. Toshiba BT 0-0 
 8. Toyota Alvark 0-0 


Standings - BJ League
BJ League Standings
Eastern
 1. Akita NH 0-0 
 2. Chiba Jets 0-0 
 3. Hamamatsu P. 0-0 
 4. Iwate Big Bulls 0-0 
 5. Niigata Albirex 0-0 
 6. Saitama Bron. 0-0 
 7. Sendai 89ers 0-0 
 8. Shinshu BW 0-0 
 9. Toyama Grouses 0-0 
 10. Yokohama 0-0 
Western
 1. Fukuoka Rizing 0-0 
 2. Kyoto Hannar. 0-0 
 3. Miyazaki SS 0-0 
 4. Oita H.Devils 0-0 
 5. Okinawa GK 0-0 
 6. Osaka Evessa 0-0 
 7. Shiga L-Stars 0-0 
 8. Shimane SM 0-0 
 9. Takamatsu FA 0-0 


Rizing Fukuoka bring in GERALD INMAN - by Hiroyuki Anno
Gerald Inman (206-F-87, college: Rutgers) will continue his career in Japan. He has signed contract with Rizing Fukuoka. GERALD INMAN played for Naglis-Adakris Palangos (Lithuania) last season tallied 10.3ppg, 7.4rpg.

For the 24-year-old forward,GERALD INMAN , this is his 3rd professional basketball season.
But not new to Japan and had played for Kyoto HANNARYZ in 2009-2010 season, played 20 games tallied 8.2ppg, 6.4rpg.

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Standings -D1
D1 Standings
 1. Barsy Atyrau 0-0 
 2. BC Astana 0-0 
 3. BK Almaty 0-0 
 4. BK Atyrau 0-0 
 5. Kaspiy Aktau 0-0 
 6. Tobol 0-0 


*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


EuroBasket 2011: The late push saves France over the Baltic State - by Eurobasket News
France-Latvia 89:78

France expected an easier start, but had to enjoy the tough victory over Latvia. Trailing in the majority of the game France pushed the tempo for good in the second half and grabbed 89:78 win.
Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) and Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83) gave France the first lead by four points, while Latvia dominated the opening period. Janis Blums (190-G-82) nailed two three-pointers in a row for 9:6 and Bertans closed the period also from the perimeter for 25:18. Tony Parker (183-PG-80) and Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88, agency: Players Group) exchanged the early baskets in the third quarter and then France erupted with 13-0 run for 33:28 lead. Mickael Gelabale and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) notched three threes for 33:28 on the board. Latvia was too far to give up and again Janis Blums and J. Strelnieks made threes for 36:35 lead. Janis Blums nailed another one to score his 20 points in the first half at 41:35, while Mickael Gelabale and Boris Diaw sent the teams to the lockers for 41:40.
France looked better in the third quarter and managed to take the lead with 10 minutes to go. After 23-18 the board showed 63:59 when Tony Parker scored for France and Bertans closed the period. Again Bertans and Strelnieks reduced to 65:63 early in the fourth, while Tchicamboud made two free throws for 67:63. Boris Diaw increased the lead to 6 points and Tony Parker delivered three for 72:65. Nicolas Batum and Mickael Gelabale netted threes for 78:70 and Tony Parker increased to 85:74. Meiers and Boris Diaw exchanged the late baskets in the game as France won the opener.
Tony Parker erupted with 31 points for the winners and Boris Diaw followed him with 14. Mickael Gelabale notched 11, whilst, Nicolas Batum and Joakim Noah (211-F/C-85, college: Florida) added 10 apiece. Janis Blums had a great game for the Baltic team scoring 32 points and Rolands Freimanis added 11.

France: Tony Parker 31, Boris Diaw 14, Mickael Gelabale 11, Nicolas Batum 10, Joakim Noah 10
Latvia: Janis Blums 32, Rolands Freimanis 11


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  LITHUANIA   


EuroBasket 2011: Lithuania got their home campaign off to a nervy start - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Great Britain 80:69

Lithuania got their EuroBasket off to a nervy start with an 80:69 win over Great Britain. Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Reinking upset the home side twice from the perimeter for 6:0 lead in the opening tip. Lithuania however replied with 8-0 run and took 8:6 after the shot from Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall). Luol Deng brought 14:10 for the guests and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) nailed three for 19:18 hosts advantage at the end of the first period. Another two three-pointers from the Lithuanian player saw 27:22 midway through the second frame. Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) needed three for 38:30 and Rimantas Kaukenas made two free throws for 44:35. Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) was the last to score from the free throw line for 10-point advantage at the halftime.
The third quarter was a nightmare for the home side of Eurobasket. They scored only 5 points and allowed Great Britain to post 18. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) made two free throws for 57:54 lead after thirty minutes. Ksistof Lavrinovic opened the last quarter with a jump shot and Rimantas Kaukenas gave Lithuanian 58:57. Luol Deng gave his side the lead back, while Sarunas Jasikevicius and Reinking scored for 61:60. Simas Jasaitis and Petravicius brought 65:61 for the hosts and Kalnietis later gave his side 70:63. Rimantas Kaukenas scored another one from the perimeter for 10-point lead, while Simas Jasaitis brought 76:65. Ksistof Lavrinovic and Rimantas Kaukenas improved to 15-point lead and Luol Deng reduced to 80:69 at the very end.
Rimantas Kaukenas stepped up with 16 points, while Sarunas Jasikevicius notched 13. Ksistof Lavrinovic delivered 12 and Simas Jasaitis scored 11. Luol Deng erupted with 25 points in defeat, Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 15 and Joel Freeland added 14.

Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 16, Sarunas Jasikevicius 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 12, Simas Jasaitis 11
Great Britain: Luol Deng 25, Daniel Clark 15, Joel Freeland 14


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Marcos de Souza joins BBC US Hiefenech Heffingen - by Eurobasket Center
BBC US Hiefenech Heffingen agreed terms with 29-year old Italian-Brazilian center Marcos de Souza (208-C-82). de Souza played most recently at LB Cabo Frio in Brazil regional league CARIOCA. de Souza is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Brazil, Portugal and Spain. Two years ago de Souza spent a season in Spanish LEB Silver team Leyma Basquet Coruna. In 30 games he averaged 2.1ppg, 1.7rpg. He played also in South American Championships representing Brazil in 2000.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Standings
Diekirch League Standings
 1. Amicale 0-0 
 2. Basket Esch 0-0 
 3. BBC Nitia 0-0 
 4. Etzella 0-0 
 5. Heffingen 0-0 
 6. Musel Pikes 0-0 
 7. Residence 0-0 
 8. Soleuvre 0-0 
 9. Sparta 0-0 
 10. T71 0-0 


Standings - Nationale 2
N2 Standings
 1. Arlon 0-0 
 2. Bascharage 0-0 
 3. BC Mess 0-0 
 4. Black Star 0-0 
 5. Contern 0-0 
 6. Grengewald 0-0 
 7. Kordall Steelers 0-0 
 8. Mondorf 0-0 
 9. Racing 0-0 
 10. Red Miners 0-0 


Bojan Petrovic is a newcomer at BC Mess - by Eurobasket Center
BC Mess (N2) strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old Serbian power forward Bojan Petrovic (206-F/C-88). Petrovic played most recently at Jedinstvo Novi Becej (3rd division in Serbia). He was seelcted to Serbia and Montenegro U18 National Team in 2006. It will be his first year outside Serbia.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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  MEXICO   


Standings - LNBP
LNBP Standings
 1. Abejas 0-0 
 2. Aguilas Rojas 0-0 
 3. Barreteros 0-0 
 4. Corr.Victoria 0-0 
 5. Fuerza Regia 0-0 
 6. Halc.Rojos 0-0 
 7. Halc.Xalapa 0-0 
 8. Huracanes 0-0 
 9. Lechugueros 0-0 
 10. Panteras 0-0 
 11. Pioneros 0-0 
 12. Soles 0-0 
 13. Toros 0-0 
 14. Volcanes 0-0 


Rose moves from Syria to Mexico - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) added to their roster 28-year old Jamaican center Daniel Rose (208-C-83, college: Cedarville). Rose played most recently at Al Wathba (Syria). It was a great season when he was voted Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League Defensive Player of the Year. The previous year he spent in China playing for ShenYang Dongjin in the summer league. In 20 games he averaged solid 16.0ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.1spg and 4.0bpg (#1 in the league). Rose graduated Cedarville University in 2009 and it will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Correcaminos UAT Victoria sign Detrick White - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) signed 35-year old American guard Detrick White (184-G-76, college: Mississippi St.). White played most recently at Pioneros Los Mochis (CIBACOPA). While playing 38 games for Los Mochis last season his stats were: 24.2ppg, 6.6rpg, 5.7apg (2nd best in the league), 1.6spg (5th best in the league) and 2.2bpg (4th best in the league). White is a very experienced player. He graduated Mississippi State University in 1999 and it will be his 13th season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Correcaminos UAT Victoria sign experienced James Penny - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) signed 35-year old American forward James Penny (198-F-76, college: TCU). Penny played most recently at Bomberos de Mexicali (CIBACOPA). While playing 38 games for Mexicali last season his stats were: 14.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg and 1.3bpg. Penny played also pro basketball in Argentina and Philippines. He managed to win LNBP Champion in 2006 playing for Lechugueros de Leon. Penny graduated Texas Christian University in 1998 and it will be his 14th season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Correcaminos UAT Victoria sign Gerald Burris for his 10th season in Mexico - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) signed 33-year old American forward Gerald Burris (198-F-78, college: W.Alabama). Burris played most recently at Jaguares de la Bahia Riviera Nayarit (LNBP). Burris is a very experienced player. He graduated University of West Alabama in 2001 and it will be his 11th season in pro basketball and ...10th season in Mexico.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Leroy Davis' ...21st pro team will be Correcaminos UAT Victoria - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) agreed terms with 30-year old American forward Leroy Davis (200-F-81, college: Georgia St.). Davis played most recently at Jaguares de la Bahia Riviera Nayarit (LNBP) until October last year. Davis is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Jordan, Uruguay and Venezuela. He played record number of 21 teams in his pro career and still has few more years to play. Davis graduated Georgia State University in 2003 and it will be his nineth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Correcaminos UAT Victoria agree to terms with Calvin Morris - by Eurobasket Center
Another globetrotter joining Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) is 37-year old American power forward Calvin Morris (203-F/C-74, college: Tennessee St.). Morris played most recently at Angeles de Puebla (LNBP). While playing 25 games for Angeles last season his stats were: 3.2ppg and 2.8rpg. Morris is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Finland, France, Ireland, Turkey, Uruguay, Venezuela and many leagues in the USA (but not NBA). He played in total for ...27 teams in his long career and Correcaminos will be team number 28th. Wondering if he still stays in touch with teammates from all clubs he ever player for. Morris graduated Tennessee State University in 1996 and it will be his 16th season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Rio Pitt starts his first pro season in LNBP - by Eurobasket Center
Lechugueros de Leon (LNBP) signed American forward Rio Pitt (200-F, college: S.Carolina St.). He just graduated South Carolina State University in 2011 and it will be his first season in pro basketball. He helped them to make it to the MEAC Tournament Final in 2010. His last season stats in the college were 4.5ppg and 5.0rpg in 30 games.


By Eurobasket Data Center



Lechugueros de Leon start the season with many new faces on their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Lechugueros de Leon (LNBP) strarted their LNBP season having completely new season comparing to the last year.
The most-known name is 37-year old Bahamian power forward Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74, college: UALR) (200-F/C-74, college: UALR). Moss played most recently at Fuerza Guinda Nogales (CIBACOPA). While playing 42 games for Nogales last season he recorded 20.7ppg, 9.9rpg (2nd best in the league), 1.2apg and 1.5bpg. Moss is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Belgium, Dominican Rep., France and Venezuela. Moss graduated University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1999 and it will be his 13th (hopefully lucky) season in pro basketball.
They signed also American forward Rio Pitt (200-F, college: S.Carolina St.). He just graduated South Carolina State University in 2011 and it will be his first season in pro basketball. He helped them to make it to the MEAC Tournament Final in 2010. His last season stats in the college were 4.5ppg and 5.0rpg in 30 games.
Another necomer is experienced Haitian-American swingman Bobby St.Preux (196-G/F-80, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: N.Kentucky), who played this spring at B.A. Shiraz in Iranian Superleague. But his season was way better two years ago when playing for Al Jeish Army Damascus, he helped them to win Syrian League Championship. In 2008-2009 he played in Japanese BJ League for Sendai 89ers. It was also a very spectacular year when St.Preux was awarded Asia-Basket.com All-Japanese BJ League Forward of the Year. It will be his 7th year in pro basketball (he missed two years after his graduation from Northern Kentucky).
The other new face is American forward Deilvez Yearby (198-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: IPFW). He spent last season with Cuxhaven BasCats in German Proa league. At the end of season Yearby was voted to Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A 1st Team. It will be his second year in pro basketball and the first one in Latin America.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


EuroBasket 2011: Montenegro register first win in Lithuania - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - FYR Macedonia 70:65 (OT)

Montenegro celebrated the first win at 2011 EuroBasket. They needed overtime to tame FYR Macedonia in Group C. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds to pace the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Montenegro eked out a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. But FYR Macedonia took over late in the second frame. Lester McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Ilievski stepped up with four straight points to give them a 30:25 halftime lead. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the third quarter. Eventually the teams entered the fourth period tied at 49. Bakic, Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) and Vranes put Montenegro up by 7 points midway through the fourth quarter but it was not enough. Lester McCalebb and Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) dragged FYR Macedonia within two points and then Stojanovski tied things up at 61 sending the game into overtime. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Vladimir Dasic put Montenegro in front at the start of the extra term and Montenegro hung on to escape with a tough win at the end. Vladimir Dragicevic posted 12 points, while Omar-Sharif Cook added 8 points in the win. Lester McCalebb answered with 17 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic had 11 points in the losing effort.

Montenegro: Vladimir Dasic 20+16 boards, Vladimir Dragicevic 12, Omar-Sharif Cook 8
FYR Macedonia: Lester McCalebb 17, Pero Antic 11


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


Source: Adelman, Wolves talk again, no deal offered - by Eurobasket News
Rick Adelman returned to Minnesota on Tuesday to meet again with the Timberwolves, the second time this month he has traveled from his home in Oregon to talk about the team's vacant head coaching position.

Adelman arrived in the Twin Cities to meet with owner Glen Taylor and other Timberwolves officials, a person with knowledge of the discussions told The Associated Press. The person spoke Tuesday on condition of anonymity because neither side is commenting publicly on the process.

But he left without a deal to become the head coach.

Adelman traveled to Minnesota on Aug. 23 to talk about replacing the fired Kurt Rambis and had a phone conversation with president of basketball operations David Kahn earlier this summer to discuss the position.

The 65-year-old Adelman is 945-616 in 20 seasons as a head coach of the Trail Blazers, Kings, Warriors and Rockets. He parted ways with the Rockets in April, and Houston hired former Timberwolves coach and general manager Kevin McHale to take over the team.

Adelman said at the end of last season that he still had a lot of coaching left in him, though many believed he would prefer to take a year away, just as he has between every other stop during his career.

But the NBA lockout could give him plenty of time off if the players' union and the owners don't resolve their considerable differences soon, and Adelman has a history with Timberwolves All-Star Kevin Love that could make the job an attractive one for him.

Love played on the same Oregon high school team as Adelman's son, and the two got to know each other well while Adelman attended the games. The Timberwolves also have an intriguing young cast around Love, including Spanish import Ricky Rubio, swingman Wes Johnson, No. 2 overall pick Derrick Williams and Michael Beasley.

The athletic group would seem to fit with the kind of system Adelman has been known for running, which is exactly what Kahn wants.

Adelman runs the kind of uptempo, free-flowing offensive system that Kahn has wanted to install in Minnesota ever since he took over in 2009. Kahn clashed with Rambis over the philosophy, which ultimately led to Kahn's decision to fire the coach after just two seasons.

Adelman has coached 19 full seasons, leading the Blazers to the NBA finals in 1990 and 1992. He coached the Warriors to consecutive losing seasons in 1995-96 and '96-97, the only times he has coached a full season and had a team finish with a losing record.

The Timberwolves are coming off an NBA-worst 17-65 season. They have also interviewed Terry Porter, Mike Woodson, Don Nelson, Larry Brown, Sam Mitchell and Bernie Bickerstaff for the job.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Carmelo Anthony has lockout solution - by Eurobasket News
New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) has a solution -- albeit an unrealistic one -- to settle the NBA's labor dispute.

'Just let us play and continue to negotiate. That's what we say,' Anthony said on Tuesday after playing an exhibition game in Baltimore.

Talks between the NBA and its locked-out players' union are expected to be held on Wednesday in New York for just the second time since the lockout began on July 1.

'I want a deal done, we all want a deal done. We just want it to be fair for both parties,' added Anthony, who shared the court with LeBron James, Chris Paul and Kevin Durant in the exhibition at Morgan State University. 'We want to play basketball at the end of the day. We don't care about none of that other stuff. They could settle that; just let us play and continue to negotiate.'

Anthony said he and others playing in Tuesday's game met with NBA Players Association executive Billy Hunter earlier in the day.

'This time around we're tight and we're strong,' Anthony said.

The union and the league remain at odds over the owners' desire to cut player salaries and establish a hard salary cap. Anthony is concerned that the lockout will drag on into the NBA's regular season, which is slated to kick off in early November.

'I'm worried because I want to play and October's right around the corner and it doesn't look like we're going to be start on time,' Anthony said.

Courtesy of ESPN

LeBron, Carmelo help pack the house for exhibition - by Eurobasket News
Even during a lockout, the NBA still packs plenty of drawing power.

LeBron James (6'8''-F-84), Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas), Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) and Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) starred in a hastily arranged summer league game Tuesday night that drew an overflow crowd at Morgan State University.

The big question is: Will these stars and their peers perform in the NBA this year?

The owners and players union are expected to meet this week. Until a settlement is reached, fans with a thirst for professional basketball will have to settle for exhibitions like this one.

Hill Field House holds 4,500, but there were hundreds of fans surrounding the court to watch the collection of stars in a rare performance in Baltimore, Anthony's home town.

There were a few police officers to keep the peace. If there was a fire marshal in attendance, he might have shut the place down.

The game was originally scheduled to be held Sunday at a Baltimore high school that holds around 1,000 fans. It was postponed because of Hurricane Irene, and when word got out that James was playing, the venue was changed to Morgan State.

The tickets sold at a rapid pace at $40 to $100. It didn't matter that the entry process was exceedingly slow because both teams arrived after the scheduled 7 o'clock start.

Press row didn't have enough seats to accommodate those fortunate enough to collar credentials (one reporter was told he couldn't get in unless he bought a ticket). Minutes before the game started, several media members who did secure seats were unceremoniously ousted by people with deep connections.

That would never happen at an NBA game, and the same could be said for the treatment the players received.

When James and his teammates of the Melo League finally walked onto the court, they were rushed by autograph seekers and people snapping pictures with personal cameras and cell phones. It set up one of the strangest scenes of a very peculiar night: players taking warmup shots while dozens of fans walked through the lane and under the basket.

The game was every bit like an NBA All-Star game in that it featured big-name players wearing generic uniforms and showing very little effort on the defensive end.

James slammed down several crowd-cheering dunks and played a little game of 1-on-1 with Durant. At one point, all eight players went to the left side of the court while James juked and dribbled against Durant before making a 20-footer.

Durant then returned the favor on the other end.

Melo's team beat Durant's squad 149-141. The statistics were spotty, but the all-nonsense public address announcer said Durant scored 59 points and James had 36.

Not that it mattered. The crowd loved every minute and was in no rush to leave. James and Anthony were swarmed at midcourt at the final buzzer, and after five minutes both finally worked their way off the court.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Ex-NBA player set for LA court appearance - by Eurobasket News
Former NBA player Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) was scheduled to appear Wednesday in criminal court for a hearing in connection with his arrest in a murder case in Atlanta.

Crittenton was being held on a state penal code violation of being a fugitive from justice, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said. He was taken into custody Monday night at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

Police in Atlanta had obtained a murder warrant for Crittenton in the Aug. 19 shooting of Jullian Jones, 23, a mother of four young children, as she was walking with two men.

Crittenton, 23, was wanted on a federal arrest warrant after the FBI learned that he traveled on a one-way ticket to Los Angeles, where he was known to have family and friends, several days after the shooting.

Crittenton's attorneys have said he will be exonerated.

An Atlanta Police spokeswoman said the timetable for Crittenton's return depends on whether he waives extradition.

Jones, a 23-year-old mother of four, was outside her house with 18-year-old Trontavious Stephens when a black Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid pulled up and gunfire erupted. Authorities have said they don't believe Jones was the intended target, but they haven't said who they think the assailant was after.

Crittenton was with the Washington Wizards in December 2009 when he and Arenas had a dispute over a card game. Two days later, Arenas brought four guns to the locker room and set them in front of Crittenton's locker with a sign telling him to 'PICK 1.' Crittenton then took out his own gun.

Crittenton pleaded guilty in January 2010 to a misdemeanor gun charge and received a year of unsupervised probation. Arenas entered his guilty plea on Jan. 15, 2010. He served a short time in a halfway house.

Crittenton is on the roster of the NBA developmental league's Dakota Wizards.

Courtesy of The Associated Press

NBA Players to Europe: Leverage, Boredom, Need, or Stupidity? - by Julius Johnson
Approximately 50 players from 2010-11 NBA rosters are expected to play overseas.

On the surface, players are saying, 'We don't need the NBA in order to make a living. So we can stand for our priciples while we wait for the owners to wilt.'

Owners may be saying, 'You have demonstrated your willingness to play this game in Europe for 10 cents on the dollar? Next time your contract is up, I remind you that you have re-established your bottom line. '

Looks like we have an argument for leverage: for both sides!

In almost every case, the European salaries are far less than what they could earn in the NBA. Furthermore, many players are going to Europe with only partial disability insurance coverage, seriously risking injury and loss of future income.

Why would a player go to Europe for 10 cents on the dollar without full disability coverage?

Leverage? I doubt it.

The answer is more likely boredom. Basketball players aren't happy unless they compete. The Pro-Am is only a tide-me-over. Very few players have the discipline to hire a professional trainer and ride out the lockout. At first, scoring 57 point in a Pro-Am game is cool. But, athletes need more. Competition... Fame...Reporters...Headlines...Twitter.

Another approach: NBA players have such a high lifestyle and do such a poor job managing their finances, that many need the $$$ just to get through the lockout. That is hard to imagine, but just refer to Eddy Curry and Antoine Walker.


NBA player Corey Maggette arrives to Thessaloniki today, negotiates with PAOK - by Eurobasket News
Corey Maggette (198-G-79, college: Duke) is expected to land in Thessaloniki today. The NBA player negotiates a deal with PAOK. He will take a tour around the city and visit team facilities. It is expected that Maggette will make his decision until the end of the week. Corey Maggette had 12 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.3 apg for the Milwaukee Bucks last season. He appeared in 67 NBA games. From 2008 until the last summer Maggette played for the Golden State Warriors. He exploded with 19.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 2.5 apg in their second season together (70 games). In the past, Maggette spent eight years with the Los Angeles Clippers. His best season with the Clippers came in 2007/08. He had 22.1 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.7 apg for 70 games. Corey Maggette earned $9,600,000 last season with the Bucks.

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


San Diego State gives Fisher 4-year extension - by Eurobasket News
San Diego State coach Steve Fisher has received a four-year contract extension and long-time assistant Brian Dutcher has been designated as his eventual replacement.

The school announced the deal Monday. It could keep Fisher at SDSU through the 2014-15 season, if he wants to serve it out.

The 66-year-old Fisher has turned what had been a sad-sack program into a consistent winner. The Aztecs had a breakthrough season in 2010-11. They set a school record by going 34-3, secured their first two wins ever in the NCAA tournament and were ranked in The Associated Press Top 25 for the first time.

Fisher will get a $150,000 raise next season, to $800,000. The contract provides for escalators after that.

The Aztecs reached the West regionals before losing to eventual national champion Connecticut. It was their sixth straight 20-win season, and seventh in 12 years under Fisher.

Dutcher has been with Fisher since 1988 at Michigan.

Fisher said Dutcher has been approached several times by other schools about head coaching jobs, but that he's talked his assistant out of leaving.

''To draw me away from this would have to be something spectacular,' Dutcher said.

'In my mind, Brian is more important than the extension of my contract,' Fisher said.

Fisher will have a big job trying to keep the Aztecs playing at a high level after losing four starters. Point guard D.J. Gay and forwards Malcolm Thomas and Billy White were seniors, and star sophomore forward Kawhi Leonard left for the NBA draft. Additionally, center Brian Carlwell was denied a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.

'I'm not looking to be pushed out the door or run out the door anytime soon,' said Fisher, who had a cancer scare a few years ago. 'Who knows? I used to operate on a handshake. Now, everyone has a contract. I do like that I have a contract. Right now I'm very healthy. Given the success we've had recently, I'm very excited about what the program has done and what we continue to do.'

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

BYU players, coaches say Davis motivated in return - by Eurobasket News
BYU basketball players and coaches say they see a different Brandon Davies (6'9''-F), one motivated to take advantage of the second chance he's received after being reinstated following his honor-code violation.

The team returned from a 10-day, five-game trip to Greece late Thursday and learned Friday that the junior center was being reinstated.

On Monday, they saw Davies on campus for the first day of classes.

'I think he's overjoyed at having a second chance,' teammate Noah Hartsock said of Davies, whose suspension near the end of the regular season came as the Cougars had climbed to No. 3 in the rankings last season. 'Most players here at this school might not get that chance, but he was really excited and just really grateful for the opportunity. I think he's going to take really good care of what he has and he's going to be a great help for us this year.'

BYU coach Dave Rose said he was proud of Davies for the way he handled himself after the honor-code violation was revealed, and how he responded positively to all the negative publicity as the Cougars chased a national championship.

The school does not discuss the nature of suspensions but under the honor code students are prohibited from having premarital sex and drinking alcoholic beverages, among other things.

BYU did not make Davies available for comment.

Davies, who grew up in Provo, had started 26 of 29 games for the Cougars and averaged 11.1 points and a team-leading 6.2 rebounds.

'I think he's kind of turned the corner as far as his ability to really focus and achieve things that are really important to him,' Rose said. 'He's always been driven, but now he has more focus in that drive.'

BYU players were still a bit jet-lagged from the overseas trip that saw them beat up on a few Greek 'B' league pro teams while taking a pounding from bigger, more skilled national teams from Greece and Italy.

Davies wasn't there to help out as he had not yet been reinstated. And the team is still without guard Matt Carlino, who can't play until December because of transfer rules, and forward-center Chris Collinsworth, who is still rehabbing a knee.

But players were excited about the possibilities as they gear up to play in a new conference -- the West Coast -- albeit without stars Jimmer Fredette and Jackson Emery.

They acknowledge it will have to be more of a team effort without Fredette, the national player of the year and nation's leading scorer, hitting long-range 3s and seemingly scoring at will.

But they believe they have the players to make another NCAA run after making it to the round of 16 last season en route to a 32-5 overall mark.

'It's not going to be a one-man show like last year,' Hartsock said, referring to the loss of Fredette, the No. 10 overall pick in the NBA draft by Sacramento. 'It will take a great team effort and Brandon's going to be a big part of that.'

Seeing what they did overseas only gave them more confidence.

'This team, when we come together, we're going to be really special,' swingman Charles Abouo said.

Abouo, who was asked to carry a bigger portion of the load last year without Davies, expected Davies' return but never knew for sure.

'Having him enrolled is definitely good for us and I think it's definitely good for him to be back in school and will be good for him and his future,' Abouo said.

Abouo admitted the team missed Davies.

'We have lofty goals pretty much every year and don't know if we can get there without him in the equation,' he said. 'He's a big part of what we do and having him back with us definitely helps us.'

Abouo said the suspension left Davies with plenty of time to work out on his own and think.

'It would definitely frustrate anybody in that position, but he did a good job of staying level-headed,' Abouo said. 'He's using it as motivation for him to come back and be better person, a better student and a better basketball player. He's definitely worked a lot on his game this summer and I think he's going to show that once the season starts.'

The team cannot hold full practices until Oct. 15 but is allowed to conduct individual workouts now that school is back in session.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Coach Bruce Pearl takes job as VP for Knoxville company - by Eurobasket News
Former Tennessee basketball coach Bruce Pearl accepted a job as vice president of marketing with a Knoxville-based wholesale grocery company, bypassing the chance to coach the Texas Legends of the NBA's developmental league.

He will begin working at H.T. Hackney on Thursday. The company is led by Chairman and CEO Bill Sansom, a former University of Tennessee trustee.

'It's really an answer to prayer,' Pearl told The Associated Press on Tuesday. 'This is where my family is. This is where I want to be. Everybody looks at me as a coach, but I'm a father and a husband, and I've got to provide for my family.'

Pearl was fired in March after six seasons at Tennessee in the wake of a two-year NCAA investigation that culminated Wednesday with a three-year show-cause penalty against the coach. The sanction makes it nearly impossible for another school to hire him during that time.

He had considered an offer to coach the Legends of the NBA's developmental league, but he said he wanted to remain in Knoxville. His two oldest children live and work in Knoxville, while his youngest two children are in high school. His wife, Brandy, is from nearby Sevierville, Tenn.

Pearl majored in marketing and economics at Boston College. He said he would have pursued a career in marketing had he not gotten into coaching in 1982.

'I am a former basketball coach at the University of Tennessee, and I'm very proud of almost everything that we accomplished,' he said. 'I'm excited about this new challenge. I'm going to bring the same level of passion and intensity. This is a championship team already. Nobody in the industry does that better. I'm learning that quickly.'

Sansom said he asked Pearl several months ago if he'd considered taking a non-coaching job with a local company.

'A couple of weeks ago I was having dinner with Bruce and Brandy, and he was talking about Texas and if he really wanted to go to Texas, and I said, 'You ought to talk to us,'' Sansom said.

H.T. Hackney is a privately held company with annual revenues of about $4 billion. Sansom and Pearl declined to reveal Pearl's salary.

Sansom said he felt Pearl fit the company's culture and said he had no problem if Pearl wanted to pursue coaching again in three years.

'I hope Bruce has so much fun he won't want to leave, but if he's got that passion and has an opportunity, that's not a problem for either one of us if he wants to do that when the time comes,' Sansom said.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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  NORWAY   


Standings - BLNO
BLNO Standings
 1. Ammerud Bskt 0-0 
 2. Asker Aliens 0-0 
 3. Baerum Basket 0-0 
 4. Centrum 0-0 
 5. Froya Basket 0-0 
 6. Gimle BBK 0-0 
 7. Langhus 0-0 
 8. Tromso 0-0 
 9. Ulriken Elite 0-0 


Tromso Storm adds Byerson to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Tromso Storm added to their roster 26-year old American forward Brad Byerson (201-F-85, college: Virginia Union). Byerson played most recently at APSE Venice (Eurobasket) in the U.S. While playing 3 games for Venice last season he averaged 12.0ppg, 11.7rpg, 2.7apg and 2.3spg. Byerson is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Germany, Israel and Romania. His biggest achievement was when he played for Hapoel Natzrath Elite in Israeli National League, when at the end of 2009-10 season he was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League Honorable Mention. Byerson graduated Virginia Union University in 2008 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Puerto Rico smashes Panama 99-66 in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News
PANAMA - PUERTO RICO 66-99

Puerto Rico exploded in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Mar del Plata. They smashed Panama 99-66 for 1-0 score in Group B. Of course, Panama has 0-1 now. Their rivals in this pool are Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) came of the bench for Puerto Rico to score 16 points and grab 5 rebounds. Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Ricardo Sanchez (212-C/F-87) and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) (7 as) netted 12 and 11 points respectively. In Panama, Ruben Garces (206-C/F-73, agency: Priority Sports, college: Providence) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Jose Lloreda (201-F/C-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU) (6 rebs) also scored 16 points and Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85, college: Virginia) (5 rebs) had two less than him. Quarters: 8-18, 20-23, 18-25, 20-33. Puerto Rico will play against Paraguay today. Panama will have a day-off.

Panama: Ruben Garces 16+10 boards, Jose Lloreda 16+6 boards, Gary Forbes 14+5 boards
Puerto Rico: Alejandro Carmona 16+5 boards, Daniel Santiago 15+6 boards, Ricardo Sanchez 12, Carlos Arroyo 11+7 as

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  PARAGUAY   


Argentina hands 84-52 loss to Paraguay in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News
PARAGUAY - ARGENTINA 52-84

Argentina cruised past Paraguay 84-52 in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. The host of this event has 1-0 in Group B. Panama, Puerto Rico and Uruguay are also participants of this pool. Argentina took control on Paraguay from the beginning and never looked back. Alfredo Quinteros (186-G-79) led the hosts with 19 points (valuation 22). Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) had 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) helped with 12 points and 8 boards. Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) and Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances) added 10 points and 5 rebounds each. On the other side, Paraguay got 18 points from Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82). Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, college: Merrimack) and Jose Fabio (198-F-77) (9 rebs) scored 13 and 11 pts respectively. Quarters: 8-27, 15-18, 17-24, 12-15. Argentina will meet Uruguay in Day Two. Paraguay will play against Puerto Rico.

Paraguay: Guillermo Araujo 18, Bruno Zanotti 13, Jose Fabio 11+9 boards
Argentina: Alfredo Quinteros 19, Luis Scola 14+6 boards, Juan Gutierrez 12+8 boards, Andres Nocioni 10+5 boards, Emanuel Ginobili 10+5 boards

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  PBL   


From NBA Star, to Philanthropist, to Premier Basketball League Standout? - by Allen White
CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2011 /via Reuters.com/ With the impending NBA lock out approaching, the Premier Basketball League has been focused on the upcoming season. Brij Desai, PBL President and CEO, shared the league mission, a night of charity, and a contract to play in the 2012 PBL season with one NBA stand-out this past Friday evening.

Chicago native and Miami Heat All-Star Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) held his Fourth Annual Wades World Weekend benefiting the Wades World Foundation and several local Chicago charities. This invite only, star studded event focused on raising much needed funds for local charities inspiring and educating children.

It was an absolute honor being invited to such an amazing evening of philanthropy. The Premier Basketball League is a stand out supporter of community involvement, and it inspires our entire leadership team seeing what Dwyane is doing for kids, commented Desai.

Giving back to the Chicago community is not the only thing Desai was able to accomplish for the PBL and partner foundations this weekend. Desai personally presented a 2012 Premier Basketball League contract worth seven figures to Wade for the upcoming season beginning this January and ending in April. On the heals of a successful NBA Locked-Out Draft this summer, the PBL has already been in contact negotiations with two additional NBA players and their agents.

Wade received the highest number of votes in our Locked-Out Draft this summer. Our fans have spoken and I am honored to have personally presented Dwyane with a contract for the 2012 season, continued Desai. Its not everyday that a Chicago native has so much impact on their home town all the way fromMiami. With our new league initiatives, regional play model, and NBA Locked-Out player contracts competitive with overseas leagues, we want to give Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) the opportunity to continue giving back to his fan base right here in the United States this upcoming season.

Desai also had the opportunity to talk with Wades agent Henry Thomas, as well as present the official PBL promotional kit with a copy of the first game of the 2011 PBL Finals in Rochester.

Every major player in the NBA is being approached by multiple leagues around the world. We are excited to be receiving so much attention and positive feedback from the NBA players and agents that we are in talks with now, concluded Desai.

With a new regional play model for the 2012 season, the PBL is growing quickly. Already adding 6 teams to the 2012 season roster, the PBL has plans on a September announcement of two additional teams for the upcoming season. Each team is firmly committed to their respective communities and the fan base across the nation.

For more information on the Premier Basketball League and NBA Locked-Out player contract including a picture of Desai presenting the contract to Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) please visit www.ThePBL.com or contact Chris Foltz, Vice-President of League Development at chris@thepbl.com.

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  POLAND   


Adrian Bowie leaves SKS Polpharma-Pakmet - by Eurobasket News
Adrian Bowie (187-G-89, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Maryland) leaves SKS Polpharma-Pakmet as the player stayed with the team only for try-outs. In the beginning of August SKS Polpharma-Pakmet Starogard Gd.announced American guard Adrian Bowie. The latter played most recently at University of Maryland (NCAA) in the U.S. While playing 33 games for Maryland last season he averaged 8.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.5apg and 1.1spg.
The 22-year-old Bowie is a recent graduate of Maryland, where he played for the Maryland Terrapins collegiate team. Adrian Bowie played a total of 135 games in the colors of this team.
Last season three seniors Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker and Dino Gregory played their final season in a Maryland jersey when they play host to Virginia. Led by a season-best 22 points from Bowie, Maryland defeated the Cavaliers in Charlottesville earlier this year.


EuroBasket 2011: Spain survives Polish scare, wins the opener - by Eurobasket News
Spain -Poland 83:78

Spain survived the opener against Poland to start Eurobasket 2011. The defending champions won 83:78 as Poland had a great game versus one of the favorites.
Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82) was the first to score at Eurobasket 2011 as he brought the first lead for Poland. Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) nailed three for 5:4, but then Spain needed an 8-0 run for 18:9. Szczotka meanwhile closed the first period at 22:15. Szczotka and Leonczyk cut it to 22:19 in the start of the second frame, while Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) made two free throws for 24:19. He also closed a run for his side at 29:19 and Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) made it 35:23. Juan Carlos Navarro scored his 11th points from the perimeter to give the favorites 40:25. Marc Gasol made two free throws at the end of the half for 44:31 lead after 20 minutes.
Pau Gasol opened the third period with a jump shot to give Spain 15-point advantage. Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) scored for 46:33 and his another jump-shot reduced to 50:36 midway through the third period. Juan Carlos Navarro and Szymon Szewczyk exchanged the shots for 53:40, while Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) cut it to 54:42. Leonczyk and Adam Hrycaniuk closed the third period at 61:52. Pau Gasol made it 66:57 and Juan Carlos Navarro brought another two points from the free throw line. Poland never gave up and Lukasz Koszarek delivered two for 70:65. Pau Gasol scored his 24th points for 72:65 with 3 minutes in the game. Adam Hrycaniuk reduced to 72:67 and Thomas Kelati scored for 73:69. Juan Carlos Navarros three was too much for the opponents as the Spanish player brought 77:69 on the board. Lukasz Koszarek however replied with 5 points in a row for 77:74 and Pau Gasol scored for 80:74. Lukasz Koszarek and Thomas Kelati made two free throws each for Poland to trail 2 points in the last minute. Juan Carlos Navarro gave Spain 82:78 with 16 seconds to go and Pau Gasol made the final result in the game.
Pau Gasol erupted with 29 points for the winners and Juan Carlos Navarro netted 23. Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) ended up with 16 points, while Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) added 7. Lukasz Koszarek responded with 19 points in defeat, whilst Thomas Kelati netted 18. Adam Hrycaniuk scored 12 and Szymon Szewczyk delivered 10.

Spain: Pau Gasol 29, Juan Carlos Navarro 23, Marc Gasol 16, Serge Ibaka 7
Poland: Lukasz Koszarek 19, Thomas Kelati 18, Adam Hrycaniuk 12, Szymon Szewczyk 10


Scott Morrison is a newcomer at Energa Czarni - by Eurobasket Center
Energa Czarni Slupsk has just announced the signing of 25-year old Canadian former international center Scott Morrison (212-C-86, college: Portland St.). That will be his second campaign in Poland. Morrison finished last season at Anwil Wloclawek. He played in 10 games averaging 4.3ppg and 3.1rpg. Before came to Poland Morrison has played in Politekhnika-Halychyna (Ukraine). He was one of the key players in the team. While playing 32 games in Ukrainian Superleague his stats were: 13.3ppg, 7.2rpg and 1.4bpg. Morrison is a very strong player who can play on both center and power forward positions.


Marko Lekic joins AZS Koszalin - by Greg
AZS Koszalin agreed terms with 26-year old Serbian big man Marko Lekic (211-C-85). Lekic is the product of Metalac Valjevo. He can play at both power forward and center position. Marko spent last year at Helios Domzale (Slovenia). While playing 2 games in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round for Helios last season he recorded 11.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg and 1.0spg. He also played 28 games in Slovenian League and his stats were 10.6ppg and 3.1rpg. Lekic is expected to come to Koszalin next week.

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  PORTUGAL   


EuroBasket 2011: Turkey edged Portugal in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Turkey-Portugal 79:56

Turkey did not have any difficulties in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. The team edged Portugal 79:56 in Group A second game.
Santos and Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79) became the first players to score for their sides at EuroBasket 2011. The score was also tied at 4:4, while Turkey took the lead later in the quarter. Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky) scored for 10:4 and Hidayet Turkoglu closed the first period for 15:9. Again Enes Kanter made four in a row for 24:11, while Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) made a jump shot for 26:13. Another 7-0 run in the middle of the second period gave the Turkish side 33:15 advantage when Enes Kanter scored his 12th points. Elvis Evora (205-C-78) and Miranda meanwhile reduced to 35:22 and the latter also nailed a three-pointer for 39:27. As it became clear after another 30 seconds in the court, that shot was the last successful in the first half.
The third quarter became decisive in the game and proved the superiority of the Turkish side. After 25-11 in it the Turks took 64:38 after 30 minutes. Tunceri increased the lead to 30 points in the start of the last frame and Silva scored for 69:40. Savas brought 72:48 for Turkey and Akyol increased to 76:48. Savas and Andrade were the last players to score for their teams to set up the final result in the game.
Enes Kanter and Hidayet Turkoglu poured in 14 points each for the winners, while Omer Onan (194-G-78) netted 10. Elvis Evora responded with 12 points in the losing effort and Silva scored 9.

Turkey: Enes Kanter 14, Hidayet Turkoglu 14, Omer Onan 10, Emir Preldzic 9
Portugal: Elvis Evora 12, Filipe Da Silva (185-F-86) 9



Ovarense bring in Cristovao Cordeiro - by Eurobasket News
Ovarense strengthened their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Cristovao Cordeiro (200-F/C-89). The 22-year-old centre spent the last season with Illibaum Clube. He averaged 3.8 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in LPB. Previously Cristovao Cordeiro had stints with Benfica and Queluz. He played for U16, U18 and U20 Portuguese National Teams.


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  PUERTO RICO   


Puerto Rico smashes Panama 99-66 in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News
PANAMA - PUERTO RICO 66-99

Puerto Rico exploded in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Mar del Plata. They smashed Panama 99-66 for 1-0 score in Group B. Of course, Panama has 0-1 now. Their rivals in this pool are Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) came of the bench for Puerto Rico to score 16 points and grab 5 rebounds. Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) had 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Ricardo Sanchez (212-C/F-87) and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) (7 as) netted 12 and 11 points respectively. In Panama, Ruben Garces (206-C/F-73, agency: Priority Sports, college: Providence) had double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Jose Lloreda (201-F/C-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU) (6 rebs) also scored 16 points and Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85, college: Virginia) (5 rebs) had two less than him. Quarters: 8-18, 20-23, 18-25, 20-33. Puerto Rico will play against Paraguay today. Panama will have a day-off.

Panama: Ruben Garces 16+10 boards, Jose Lloreda 16+6 boards, Gary Forbes 14+5 boards
Puerto Rico: Alejandro Carmona 16+5 boards, Daniel Santiago 15+6 boards, Ricardo Sanchez 12, Carlos Arroyo 11+7 as

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  RUSSIA   


EuroBasket 2011: Kirilenko led Russia over Ukraine to close Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
Russia-Ukraine 73:64

Russia outscored Fratellos Ukraine 73:64 in the start of the Eurobasket 2011. Russia led 2 points with 3 minutes at the end but managed to produced an 8-2 run to seal the victory.
It was a slow start in the game as both teams had difficulties to score. Ukraine kept Russia scoreless for more than three minutes and took 5:0 in the opening tip. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) however tied the game at 7:7 and Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) gave Russia the first lead at 9:7. Andrei Kirilenko and Bykov scored for 15:11and for another two minutes of the last periods the teams remained scoreless. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) and Kolchenko opened the second frame for 17:14, while Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) reduced to 20:18. Burtt nailed three for 22:20 and Vitaly Fridzon tied it all with 4 minutes in the first half. Andrei Kirilenko later tied the game at 24:24, while Russia scored another 4 points in the second frame for 28:24 when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
Ukraine dominated the third period and managed to score more in the periods that in two previous. Ukraine needed a 6-0 run at the very end as Kolchenko scored four points from the free throw line and Serhiy Lishchuk made it 53:50. Russia grabbed 10-point lead in the middle of the last quarter, but Ukraine was too far to give up. Pecherov reduced to 61:55 and Zabirchenko nailed three for 63:61. Serhiy Lishchuk made one free throw for 65:62, but then Russia finished the game with 8-2 to seal the victory.
Andrei Kirilenko top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Vitaly Fridzon added 12. Shved posted 10, while Viktor Khryapa ended up with 8. Serhiy Lishchuk finished the night with 13 points and Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) notched 12.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 20, Vitaly Fridzon 12, Shved 10, Viktor Khryapa 8
Ukraine: Serhiy Lishchuk 13, Viacheslav Kravtsov 12


Marko Marinovic heads to Enisey - by Eurobasket News
Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) heads to Enisey for 2011/2012 season. The Serbian Guard remains in Russia.
Last season Marko Marinovic became a new member of Krasnya Krylia Samara. The Serbian point guard signed a deal at the end of the season. Marinovic moves to Krasnya Krylia from ALBA Berlin. He appeared 23 times in German league with ALBA averaging 8 points and 2.9 assists. Marinovic also had 7.6 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 3.2 apg for 10 EuroCup games, plus 8.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.3 apg for six Euroleague qualification games.
Earlier Marko Marinovic played for Valencia. He helped them win the EuroCup title with 6.9 ppg and 1.5 apg in 15 games. Before Valencia, he spent one year with Crvena Zvezda Belgrade.
In 2010-2011 for Krasnie Krilya Samara (Russia-PBL, starting five) in 16 games he averaged 3.8ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.4apg.


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


Marko Marinovic heads to Enisey - by Eurobasket News
Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) heads to Enisey for 2011/2012 season. The Serbian Guard remains in Russia.
Last season Marko Marinovic became a new member of Krasnya Krylia Samara. The Serbian point guard signed a deal at the end of the season. Marinovic moves to Krasnya Krylia from ALBA Berlin. He appeared 23 times in German league with ALBA averaging 8 points and 2.9 assists. Marinovic also had 7.6 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 3.2 apg for 10 EuroCup games, plus 8.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.3 apg for six Euroleague qualification games.
Earlier Marko Marinovic played for Valencia. He helped them win the EuroCup title with 6.9 ppg and 1.5 apg in 15 games. Before Valencia, he spent one year with Crvena Zvezda Belgrade.
In 2010-2011 for Krasnie Krilya Samara (Russia-PBL, starting five) in 16 games he averaged 3.8ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.4apg.


Marko Lekic heads to Poland - by Eurobasket News
Marko Lekic (211-C-85) will continue his career in Poland. The Serbian big guy signed a deal with AZS Koszalin. Lekic heads to Poland from Slovenia, where he spent last season. He had 10.6 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 28 games in Slovenian league with Helios Domzale. They reached Playoff Semifinals. Helios also reached Slovenian Cup Finals last season. Before Helios, Marko Lekic played for Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih and Buducnost Podgorica. In 2008/09, he was a member of Geoplin Slovan. He had 15.6 ppg and 5.8 rpg for them in 27 games. Lekic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian League Honorable Mention -09. In the past, Marko Lekic played for Vojvodina, Arlas Banka and Partizan.

EuroBasket 2011: Serbia dash Italian hopes with early flurry - by Eurobasket News
Serbia-Italy 80:68

The game between Serbia and Italy was the first one and one of the most expected in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. Serbia won 80:68 after a slow start.
Italy surprised the Serbian side with 7-0 run in the beginning of the game. Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) scored for 16:8 and he made a dunk for 8-point advantage with 1 minute in the first period, but was the last in the first frame. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) opened the second quarter, while Bjelica tied the game at 22:22. The latter also gave Serbia their first lead in the game as he made all three free throws. Milan Macvan drove a lay-up for 31:27 and Rasic was perfect from the free throw line. Serbia won the second frame 25-11 and took 35:29 at the halftime.
The third quarter started bad for Italy that failed with 0-9 run and Serbia was allowed to take 47:31. It seemed they would continue in the same way, but Italy reduced to 55:45 when Andrea Bargnani made two free throws. Moreover his 11th points in the game reduced to 55:51, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) scored for 57:51. Andrea Bargnani again cut it to 57:53 that was at the very end of the third period.
Keselj and Milan Macvan scored for 61:53 and the latter closed another run at 68:53. Milos Teodosic nailed three for 71:55 when it became clear about the winner. Andrea Bargnani cut it to 75:61, while Perovic made it 77:61. Savanovic nailed three for 80:64. Andrea Bargnani scored the last four points for Italy in the game for the final result.
Milos Teodosic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) led all the winners with 15 points each. Milan Macvan netted 14, while Nenad Krstic (214-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) posted 8. Andrea Bargnani ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Danilo Gallinari had 15.

Serbia: Milos Teodosic 15, Milenko Tepic 15, Milan Macvan 14, Nenad Krstic 8
Italy: Andrea Bargnani 22, Danilo Gallinari 15



Dusan Knezevic stays with FYROM champions - by Eurobasket News
Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) will stay at least one more season in FYROM. He signed a contract extension with Feni Industri, where he moved two years ago. Knezevic was named Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League Player of the Year-11. He helped Feni to defend the championship title. They also won the title in Balkan League. Knezevic had 12.1 ppg and 7.8 rpg in 34 FYROM league games. He also added 8 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 10 games in BIBL. Knezevic and Feni won the Macedonian title also in 2010. That same year they won the National Cup. Before Feni, Dusan Knezevic played for Swisslion Takovo and Masinac. He also has experience from Iva Zorka Sabac and Srem.

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  SLOVENIA   


EuroBasket 2011. Slovenia overcome Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia - Bulgaria 67:59

Bulgaria put up a decent fight in their EuroBasket opener but surrendered against Slovenia at the end. Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) stepped up with 18 points and 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bulgaria led in the fourth quarter but Slovenia capped the regulation on an 11:0 run to steal a valuable win at the end.
Slovenia opened the game with five points in a row but soon Bulgaria put their noses in front 11:9. Slovenia gained back the lead late in the period accumulating a 17:13 lead at the first break. Erazem Lorbek and Udrih gave Slovenia a 23:14 lead midway through the second term. Bulgaria managed to narrow the gap to just 4 points at the interval. Kostov put Bulgaria as close as one early in the third term but Slovenia reacted with eight points in a row to clear off. They ensured a 47:40 lead at the final intermission. Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 7 points in an 11:0 run as Bulgaria grabbed a 57:51 lead with under five minutes to go. But Slovenia came back from behind and sealed the victory at the end. Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) finished with 13 points, 6 boards and 6 assists, while Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) contributed 12 points in the win. Earl Rowland answered with 20 points for Bulgaria. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) posted 14 points in the loss.

Slovenia: Erazem Lorbek 18, Goran Dragic 13, Zoran Dragic 12
Bulgaria: Earl Rowland 20, Filip Videnov 14


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  SPAIN   


EuroBasket 2011: Spain survives Polish scare, wins the opener - by Eurobasket News
Spain -Poland 83:78

Spain survived the opener against Poland to start Eurobasket 2011. The defending champions won 83:78 as Poland had a great game versus one of the favorites.
Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82) was the first to score at Eurobasket 2011 as he brought the first lead for Poland. Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) nailed three for 5:4, but then Spain needed an 8-0 run for 18:9. Szczotka meanwhile closed the first period at 22:15. Szczotka and Leonczyk cut it to 22:19 in the start of the second frame, while Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) made two free throws for 24:19. He also closed a run for his side at 29:19 and Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) made it 35:23. Juan Carlos Navarro scored his 11th points from the perimeter to give the favorites 40:25. Marc Gasol made two free throws at the end of the half for 44:31 lead after 20 minutes.
Pau Gasol opened the third period with a jump shot to give Spain 15-point advantage. Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) scored for 46:33 and his another jump-shot reduced to 50:36 midway through the third period. Juan Carlos Navarro and Szymon Szewczyk exchanged the shots for 53:40, while Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) cut it to 54:42. Leonczyk and Adam Hrycaniuk closed the third period at 61:52. Pau Gasol made it 66:57 and Juan Carlos Navarro brought another two points from the free throw line. Poland never gave up and Lukasz Koszarek delivered two for 70:65. Pau Gasol scored his 24th points for 72:65 with 3 minutes in the game. Adam Hrycaniuk reduced to 72:67 and Thomas Kelati scored for 73:69. Juan Carlos Navarros three was too much for the opponents as the Spanish player brought 77:69 on the board. Lukasz Koszarek however replied with 5 points in a row for 77:74 and Pau Gasol scored for 80:74. Lukasz Koszarek and Thomas Kelati made two free throws each for Poland to trail 2 points in the last minute. Juan Carlos Navarro gave Spain 82:78 with 16 seconds to go and Pau Gasol made the final result in the game.
Pau Gasol erupted with 29 points for the winners and Juan Carlos Navarro netted 23. Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) ended up with 16 points, while Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) added 7. Lukasz Koszarek responded with 19 points in defeat, whilst Thomas Kelati netted 18. Adam Hrycaniuk scored 12 and Szymon Szewczyk delivered 10.

Spain: Pau Gasol 29, Juan Carlos Navarro 23, Marc Gasol 16, Serge Ibaka 7
Poland: Lukasz Koszarek 19, Thomas Kelati 18, Adam Hrycaniuk 12, Szymon Szewczyk 10


Plasencia signs Fran Robles, Juan Miguel Morales and Miguel Conejero - by Eurobasket News
Plasencia announced signings of Francisco Robles (195-G-81), Juan Miguel Morales (188-G-78) and Miguel Conejero (205-C-82) for the next season.
Francisco Robles already played fro Plasencia in 2008/09 and also from 2002 to 2004. He spent last season with Alcazar. For 33 games in LEB Gold, Robles averaged 5.9 points and 1.4 rebounds.
Juan Miguel Morales heads to Plasencia from Melilla. He had 4.1 ppg and 1.9 rpg for them in LEB Gold last season. Before Melilla, Morales played for Alzacar.
Miguel Conejero played for Badajoz last season. He had 12.8 ppg and 10.7 rpg for 26 games in EBA. Conejero was a member of Plasencia from 2007 until the last summer.

Nick Oudendag joins Assignia Manresa for training camp - by Eurobasket News
Dutch center Nick Oudendag (210-C/F-87) joined Spanish team Assignia Manresa for the training camp. He will help the team in upcoming friendly games. Oudendag had 8.3 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen last season. He helped them reach Dutch league Semifinals. In 2009/10, Oudendag averaged 9.1 points and 5.7 rebounds with the same team. Before Nijmegen, Nick Oudendag played for Antwerp Giants. He was a member of the Nijmegen also in 2006/07. Nick Oudendag played for Dutch National Team in 2009. He appeared in three official games with them. In the past, Oudendag played for U20 and U18 Holland.

Asefa Estudiantes and Chris Lofton split - by Eurobasket News
Another player did not pass medical examination in Spain. It is Chris Lofton (188-G-86, college: Tennessee), who signed a deal with Asefa Estudiantes last week. He failed to pass medical due to back injury (herniated disk), so they parted ways. Lofton started last season with NBA D-League team Iowa Energy. He appeared 34 times with them averaging 15.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.1 steals. In March this year he signed a deal with Lokomotiv Kuban. There Lofton had just 3.3 ppg for 6 Russian league games. They split in May. Chris Lofton started 2009/10 season with Caja Laboral and in December of 2009 he moved to Estudiantes. With them he had 12.5 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.1 apg for 22 games in ACB. Lofton also had experience from Turkish Mersin, where he exploded with 20.2 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2 apg.

Valladolid and Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca part ways - by Eurobasket News
Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) will not play for Valladolid next season. The 28-year-old center signed a deal recently, but he did not pass medical examinations (ankle injury). Hernandez-Sonseca spent last season with Bilbao, but he had limited playing time. For 26 games in ACB he averaged 4.1 points and 3.6 rebounds. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca played for DKV Joventut from 2007 until the last summer. He shined in their second season together with 10.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. He also had 7.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg in Spain that year. In 2009/10, Hernandez-Sonseca registered lower digits. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca was a member of Real Madrid from 2001 to 2007. Actually, he spent one year on loan with Granca during this period. Hernandez-Sonseca won two ULEB Cup titles, one ACB title and one Copa del Rey so far in his career.

Valencia signs 2-month deal with Sergio Olmos - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Olmos (213-C-86, college: Temple) left Tarragona to join Valencia for the next two months. The team landed Olmos to help them during the pre-season. Olmos penned a deal with Tarragona recently, but he had option to leave if he gets offer from one of the Liga Endesa teams. Exactly that happened and Olmos heads to Valencia now. Sergio Olmos spent last season with LEB Gold team Faymasa Palencia. He appeared 32 times for them averaging 4 points and 3.4 rebounds. In 2009/10, Olmos was a member of La Palma. They also competed in LEB Gold, where he registered 6.8 ppg and 4.6 tpg. Sergio Olmos is a product of the Temple University, where he graduated in 2009. He had 8.4 ppg and 4.1 rpg for his school as a senior.

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  TAIWAN   


2011-12 SBL season to tip off on Dec. 17 - by Chris Wang
A seven-team meeting convened by the Chinese Taipei Basketball Association decided that the 2011-12 SBL season -- the ninth year of the semi-pro league -- will tip off on Dec. 17 this year and the player draft will be held on Oct. 7.

More details will be announced next week.

A number of regulations on rookies were approved. The minimum monthly salary for a first-year player will be NT$40,000 (US$1,379). A rookie player has to play for the team that selected him in the draft for at least two years before obtaining the free agent status.

Players who are not selected in the draft or those who are selected but are not placed in the team's roster will become free agents and can be signed by any team.

Seven SBL teams will also start negotiating with ESPN Taiwan for the broadcast contract for the next season. Taiwan Beer head coach Yen Chia-hua has been named chief negotiator by representatives of the seven teams.

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


DeVaughn Lamont moves from ABA to Mexico - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old Trinidad/T. forward DeVaughn Lamont (208-F-84, college: Cal.St.-Monterey, agency: 011 Sports). Lamont played most recently at San Francisco Rumble (ABA) in the U.S. Lamont played also pro basketball in Dominican Rep. and Venezuela. Lamont graduated Cal.St.-Monterey Bay in 2006 and it will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


26th Afrobasket: Tunisia Road to Glory - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia senior national team Africa new Lord of the Rim began its quest to rule the slamming and dunking on August 18, 2011 in Group-D the group that comprises Central Africa Republic, Rwanda and Togo.

The Coach Adel Tlatli tutored side started with a 103 56 points spanking of new comer Togo a results that set them on the road to the podium two days later (August 20) the Tunisia again took the centre stage with a 69 37 points wroughting of Rwanda and completed its unbeaten run with a 65 52 points victory over Central Africa Republic on August 22.

Having qualified as the leader of group-D the magreb nation was pitched against last team from group-B South Africa whom it decision with ease by 94 50 points in the Eight Final Round or second round the Tunisian continue from where they left off with an 86 67 points victory over fellow North African Morocco on August 25.

It was the turn of 2009 edition runner-up Cote dIvoire to be dispatched by the Tunisian on its road to glory in the semi finals as it recorded a slim 60 57 points win over the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side in a pulsating game on Saturday August 27 a win which set up against Ten-time champion Angola who stopped its ambition in the semi-final of the 2009 edition in Tripoli, Libya.

Tunisia who made it to the 2010 FIBA World Championship for the first time having conquered Cameroon in the third place game was set to take its pound of flesh against its 2009 semi final foe Angola in the grand finale at the packed full Palais des Sport arena in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Ranked 37 in the world and 5th in Africa, Tunisia surely knows that the winner get automatic ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games Tunisia went out against the former champion, Angola ranked 13th in the world and number one in Africa from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning three of the four quarters to take its first African title by 67-56 points leaving Angola and Nigeria two Africa basketball giant to try their luck in the playoffs of the basketball event of the 2012 Olympic Games.

Tunisia did not stop at winning the Special 2011 Afrobasket as the continental ruling body FIBA Africa marked its 50th years of it existence annexed almost all the available individual honours as three of its players made the continental Top-5 with Salah Mejri who recently penned down a deal at Antwerp basketball club of Belgium among the Top-5. Mejri also claim the 2011 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player award displacing Joaquim Gomes of Angola.

Other Tunisian players who mounted the podium as Africa Top-5 award winner include power forward Macram Ben Romdhane and point guard Marouan Kechride while Nigeria Ime Udoka and Angola Carlos Morais completing the Top-5 honour roster. Senegalese duo Mouhammad Faye and Malick Badiane won the highest scorer, highest three pointer and highest rebounder awards.


26th Afrobasket: Tunisia Road to Glory - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia senior national team Africa new Lord of the Rim began its quest to rule the slamming and dunking on August 18, 2011 in Group-D the group that comprises Central Africa Republic, Rwanda and Togo.

The Coach Adel Tlatli tutored side started with a 103 56 points spanking of new comer Togo a results that set them on the road to the podium two days later (August 20) the Tunisia again took the centre stage with a 69 37 points wroughting of Rwanda and completed its unbeaten run with a 65 52 points victory over Central Africa Republic on August 22.

Having qualified as the leader of group-D the magreb nation was pitched against last team from group-B South Africa whom it decision with ease by 94 50 points in the Eight Final Round or second round the Tunisian continue from where they left off with an 86 67 points victory over fellow North African Morocco on August 25.

It was the turn of 2009 edition runner-up Cote dIvoire to be dispatched by the Tunisian on its road to glory in the semi finals as it recorded a slim 60 57 points win over the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side in a pulsating game on Saturday August 27 a win which set up against Ten-time champion Angola who stopped its ambition in the semi-final of the 2009 edition in Tripoli, Libya.

Tunisia who made it to the 2010 FIBA World Championship for the first time having conquered Cameroon in the third place game was set to take its pound of flesh against its 2009 semi final foe Angola in the grand finale at the packed full Palais des Sport arena in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Ranked 37 in the world and 5th in Africa, Tunisia surely knows that the winner get automatic ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games Tunisia went out against the former champion, Angola ranked 13th in the world and number one in Africa from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning three of the four quarters to take its first African title by 67-56 points leaving Angola and Nigeria two Africa basketball giant to try their luck in the playoffs of the basketball event of the 2012 Olympic Games.

Tunisia did not stop at winning the Special 2011 Afrobasket as the continental ruling body FIBA Africa marked its 50th years of it existence annexed almost all the available individual honours as three of its players made the continental Top-5 with Salah Mejri who recently penned down a deal at Antwerp basketball club of Belgium among the Top-5. Mejri also claim the 2011 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player award displacing Joaquim Gomes of Angola.

Other Tunisian players who mounted the podium as Africa Top-5 award winner include power forward Macram Ben Romdhane and point guard Marouan Kechrid while Nigeria Ime Udoka and Angola Carlos Morais completing the Top-5 honour roster. Senegalese duo Mouhammad Faye and Malick Badiane won the highest scorer, highest three pointer and highest rebounder awards.


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


EuroBasket 2011: Turkey edged Portugal in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News
Turkey-Portugal 79:56

Turkey did not have any difficulties in Day 1 of the Eurobasket 2011. The team edged Portugal 79:56 in Group A second game.
Santos and Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79) became the first players to score for their sides at EuroBasket 2011. The score was also tied at 4:4, while Turkey took the lead later in the quarter. Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky) scored for 10:4 and Hidayet Turkoglu closed the first period for 15:9. Again Enes Kanter made four in a row for 24:11, while Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) made a jump shot for 26:13. Another 7-0 run in the middle of the second period gave the Turkish side 33:15 advantage when Enes Kanter scored his 12th points. Elvis Evora (205-C-78) and Miranda meanwhile reduced to 35:22 and the latter also nailed a three-pointer for 39:27. As it became clear after another 30 seconds in the court, that shot was the last successful in the first half.
The third quarter became decisive in the game and proved the superiority of the Turkish side. After 25-11 in it the Turks took 64:38 after 30 minutes. Tunceri increased the lead to 30 points in the start of the last frame and Silva scored for 69:40. Savas brought 72:48 for Turkey and Akyol increased to 76:48. Savas and Andrade were the last players to score for their teams to set up the final result in the game.
Enes Kanter and Hidayet Turkoglu poured in 14 points each for the winners, while Omer Onan (194-G-78) netted 10. Elvis Evora responded with 12 points in the losing effort and Silva scored 9.

Turkey: Enes Kanter 14, Hidayet Turkoglu 14, Omer Onan 10, Emir Preldzic 9
Portugal: Elvis Evora 12, Filipe Da Silva (185-F-86) 9



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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Walker agrees to join Fredette in exhibition games - by David Edole
SALT LAKE CITY -- Former UConn star Kemba Walker (185-PG-90, college: Connecticut) has agreed to participate in a two-game exhibition with former BYU standout Jimmer Fredette as players look to stay in shape during the NBA lockout.

Fredette's team of all-stars will be coached by BYU's Dave Rose. They will take on another group of NBA rookies coached by San Diego State coach Steve Fisher.

The games are set for Sept. 21 at the Maverik Center in Salt Lake City and Sept. 22 at Provo's Marriott Center.

Fredette was college basketball's player of the year last season and 10th overall pick by the NBA's Sacramento Kings.

Walker led UConn to the 2011 NCAA championship and was named the Bob Cousy Award winner as the nation's top point guard. The Charlotte Bobcats picked him 9th overall in the NBA draft.



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  UBA   


Team Georgia wins UBA Summer Showcase (TDSI) - by Eurobasket
Title game: Team Georgia 66-59 Team Tennessee
Georgia defeated Tennessee 66-59 in the title game of the 2011 UBA Summer Showcase tournament Sunday to win its first title at the new annual invitational tournament.

Team Georgia's point guard DeAndre Bray of the UBA's Southern Generals' followed his semifinal outburst of 16 points, 12 assists and five steals against the Team Indiana with another brilliant outing, collecting 26 points, 13 assists and seven steals against Tennessee in the title game.

Georgia outplayed in the first half due to the outburst of Jermaine Barnes and Freddie Williams. Barnes sparked a great first half run scoring 20 of his 28 points in the half. Williams added 22 points and 3 electrifying dunks.

'It felt good to play against such great competition', said Barnes. It's always an honor to play against Steve Dolan. He is very completive and knows how to make life hard for good players.

Tennessee was favored to win the showcase due to UBA standout Calvin O'Neil (recently signed in Iceland) and Justin Tibbs. Tibbs was Team Tennessee's top scorer averaging 25ppg over the weekend.

Georgia: Barnes 30+5+5, Bray 28+5+13, Williams 22+6+2
Tennessee: Tibbs 30+5+3, O'Neil 15+5+4, Finley 14 +14+2

Final Standing:
1. Georgia 4-1
2. Tennessee 4-1
3. Japan 3-2
4. Alabama 2-3
5. Indiana 1-4
6. Ohio 0-5

UBA Summer Showcase MVP:
DeAndre Bray (Team Georgia) - 14.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 12.0apg

Usbasket.com All-TDSI 1st Team
#s#
Freddie Williams
Williams
Justin Tubbs
Tubbs
Jermaine Barnes
Barnes
George Tandy
Tandy
Jamerson Finley
Finley
#e#5

G: Freddie Williams (188-G-87) of Team Georgia - 22.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.4apg
G: Justin Tubbs (190-G-87) of Team Tennessee - 28.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.0apg
G-F: Jermaine Barnes (194-G/F-82) of Team Georgia - 26.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 5.0apg
F: George Tandy (203-F-85) of Team Indiana - 13.8ppg, 10.0rpg, 2.0bpg
F-C: Jamerson Finley (206-C) of Team Tennessee - 12.0ppg, 14.0rpg, 2.0bpg

Usbasket.com All-TDSI 2nd Team
G: Calvin O'Neil (193-G-85) of Team Tennessee - 14.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 5.3apg
F: Dominique Holmes (199-F-84) of Team Georgia - 17.0ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.5apg
F: Michael Corpenin (198-G) of Team Japan - 16.5ppg, 12.5rpg, 1.0bpg
F: Anthony Joseph (202-F/C-82) of Team Georgia - 13.0ppg, 11.5rpg, 1.0bpg
C: Torrez Hampton (203-C) of Team Japan - 11.0ppg, 13.5rpg, 1.0bpg

UBA Summer Showcase Slam Dunk Champ
Dominique Holmes

UBA Summer Showcase 3 Point Shootout Champ
Calvin O'Neil


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  UKRAINE   


Ukraine announced roster - by Alexei Revenko
Yesterday Ukrainian national team announced roster for Eurobasket-2011. Head coach Mike Fratello include next players - guards: Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona), Dmytro Zabirchenko (192-G-84), Denys Lukashov (190-G-89), Oleksandr Lypovyy (199-G-91, agency: Beo Basket), Alexander Kolchenko (198-F/G-88, agency: Beo Basket). Forwards: Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket), Daniel Kozlov (206-C-82), Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) (captain), Olexiy Pecherov. Centers - Oleg Saltovets (202-F-77), Kyrylo Fesenko (213-C-86), Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket).
Vladimir Gerun (206-C-94) and Oleksandr Mishula (187-G-92) practice with team but didn't included in the final roster.
First game Ukrainian national team will play today against Russian national team.

EuroBasket 2011: Kirilenko led Russia over Ukraine to close Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
Russia-Ukraine 73:64

Russia outscored Fratellos Ukraine 73:64 in the start of the Eurobasket 2011. Russia led 2 points with 3 minutes at the end but managed to produced an 8-2 run to seal the victory.
It was a slow start in the game as both teams had difficulties to score. Ukraine kept Russia scoreless for more than three minutes and took 5:0 in the opening tip. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) however tied the game at 7:7 and Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) gave Russia the first lead at 9:7. Andrei Kirilenko and Bykov scored for 15:11and for another two minutes of the last periods the teams remained scoreless. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) and Kolchenko opened the second frame for 17:14, while Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) reduced to 20:18. Burtt nailed three for 22:20 and Vitaly Fridzon tied it all with 4 minutes in the first half. Andrei Kirilenko later tied the game at 24:24, while Russia scored another 4 points in the second frame for 28:24 when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
Ukraine dominated the third period and managed to score more in the periods that in two previous. Ukraine needed a 6-0 run at the very end as Kolchenko scored four points from the free throw line and Serhiy Lishchuk made it 53:50. Russia grabbed 10-point lead in the middle of the last quarter, but Ukraine was too far to give up. Pecherov reduced to 61:55 and Zabirchenko nailed three for 63:61. Serhiy Lishchuk made one free throw for 65:62, but then Russia finished the game with 8-2 to seal the victory.
Andrei Kirilenko top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Vitaly Fridzon added 12. Shved posted 10, while Viktor Khryapa ended up with 8. Serhiy Lishchuk finished the night with 13 points and Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) notched 12.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 20, Vitaly Fridzon 12, Shved 10, Viktor Khryapa 8
Ukraine: Serhiy Lishchuk 13, Viacheslav Kravtsov 12


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Riders Sign GB Youth International - by Paul Nilsen
Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders continue their team building for the new season with the signing of Great Britain Under 20 International Jamell Anderson (200-F-90). The signing was made possible by Riders new partnership with Loughborough Basketball prgoramme, with the player also benefiting from a two year scholarship at Loughborough College.

Anderson has just turned 21 years old, and is now elevated to the GB Under 23 squad. He is from Nottingham, and last season played with Essex Pirates in the BBL. With the Pirates last season, the 6 foot 7 inch forward averaged 6 points and 3 rebounds a game, as well as contributing an average of 1 steal and 1 assist per game.

Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro recognized the signing as significant for the Club, 'The fact is Jamell is a player with a lot of potential and he can really add a lot to our squad. But this signing is also a significant measure of the importance of the new partnership of the Club with Loughborough basketball programme. We will get access to a number of up and coming young players, and, of course, they get access to a top academic programme - so it is really a win-win. Jamell is a 6'7' wing with a lot of ability, and with plenty of confidence. He also has BBL experience, plays very good defence, has a lot of energy, and so I believe his potential for the Riders this season is enormous.'

Anderson was also keen to be joining the Riders, 'I am mega excited to be joining the Riders. I have watched them as a Club the last few seasons, and I am really looking forward to working with Rob Paternostro. He brings a lot of enthusiasm to the game, and I am sure he can help me improve. The fans at the John Sandford also always impressed us all as visiting teams because of their deep knowledge of the game.'

For Anderson the scholarship to Loughborough was also important, 'I want to improve my game but also improve my life chances so the hook up with Loughborough is ideal. I will be doing a sports management and science degree which is of great interest to me. But I particularly want to mature as a player - the GB coaches have been very encouraging, and obviously I have my sights set of the senior men's squad, but I will have to work very hard to get there.'


EuroBasket 2011: Lithuania got their home campaign off to a nervy start - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Great Britain 80:69

Lithuania got their EuroBasket off to a nervy start with an 80:69 win over Great Britain. Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Reinking upset the home side twice from the perimeter for 6:0 lead in the opening tip. Lithuania however replied with 8-0 run and took 8:6 after the shot from Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall). Luol Deng brought 14:10 for the guests and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) nailed three for 19:18 hosts advantage at the end of the first period. Another two three-pointers from the Lithuanian player saw 27:22 midway through the second frame. Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) needed three for 38:30 and Rimantas Kaukenas made two free throws for 44:35. Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) was the last to score from the free throw line for 10-point advantage at the halftime.
The third quarter was a nightmare for the home side of Eurobasket. They scored only 5 points and allowed Great Britain to post 18. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) made two free throws for 57:54 lead after thirty minutes. Ksistof Lavrinovic opened the last quarter with a jump shot and Rimantas Kaukenas gave Lithuanian 58:57. Luol Deng gave his side the lead back, while Sarunas Jasikevicius and Reinking scored for 61:60. Simas Jasaitis and Petravicius brought 65:61 for the hosts and Kalnietis later gave his side 70:63. Rimantas Kaukenas scored another one from the perimeter for 10-point lead, while Simas Jasaitis brought 76:65. Ksistof Lavrinovic and Rimantas Kaukenas improved to 15-point lead and Luol Deng reduced to 80:69 at the very end.
Rimantas Kaukenas stepped up with 16 points, while Sarunas Jasikevicius notched 13. Ksistof Lavrinovic delivered 12 and Simas Jasaitis scored 11. Luol Deng erupted with 25 points in defeat, Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 15 and Joel Freeland added 14.

Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 16, Sarunas Jasikevicius 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 12, Simas Jasaitis 11
Great Britain: Luol Deng 25, Daniel Clark 15, Joel Freeland 14


Maio Jets In To Join Raiders - by Paul Nilsen
UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have announced the signing of Belgian Sebastien Maio (190-G-78), a 6'3' shooting guard/small forward, who played last season in the top Czech Republic league. With a reputation as a tough defender, and good outside shooter, Maio also brings experience in some of Europe's top leagues.

Maio has a playing resume that includes teams in Pro B in France and Germany's Pro A league, Real Madrid's 2nd team in Spain's LEB Silver, BBC Monthey in Switzerland and Basketbol Brno in the Czech Republic last year.

In Switzerland during the 2009/10 season, he averaged 12 points per game, while shooting 58% from the floor and 35% from the 3 point line. Last season in the Czech NBL, he averaged 10 points while shooting 30% from the 3pt line. The Czech NBL was using the new extended 3 point line that the BBL will be using this year.

'It's going to be great to have someone with Sebastien's experience on the team. He's played in some very tough leagues around Europe and will bring us maturity and versatility as he can play the point guard, shooting guard and the small forward position.'



Sing It Back - Colin Returns To Essex - by Paul Nilsen
The Essex Pirates are pleased to announce that Colin Sing (195-G-89) will be returning to the Pirates for his third year with the Southend based Club.

The Pirates' all time leader in games played has agreed to terms and is excited about joining Zach Gachette and the other new signings on a new look Roster. 'Having looked at other offers this summer, it's good to be coming back to the Pirates. I love Southend and I know it will be another season of hard work and improvement.'

Colin held down the Starting Small Forward position last season and delivered solid averages of seven points and four rebounds a game in over 20 minutes of action while showing a deft touch from beyond the three point arc. Pirates Coaching Staff are looking for greater production and a higher level of consistency from Colin this year as Jon Clark details.

'Colin is a talented individual. At his height (6'7') he can do anything on the court and play multiple positions for us. His speed and quickness allow him to cover a lot of ground and we're working hard with him to become more of a force with the ball in his hands this season. He had several games last year where he shot the lights out from downtown and we expect more nights like that. He will have the green light this season and we expect him to deliver.'

*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Brazil opens FIBA Americans Championship with victory - by Eurobasket News
BRAZIL - VENEZUELA 92-83

Brazil celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011. They handed 92-83 loss to Venezuela for 1-0 score in Group A. Brazil had five players with double-digits in scoring yesterday. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) was the leading one with 17 points, plus he had 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) (7 as) and Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) (6 rebs) had 16 points each, Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 15 and Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) had 11 pts. In Venezuela, Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) responded with 26 points and 7 assists. Gregory Echenique (205-C-90) (7 rebs) and David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) posted 12 and 11 points respectively. Their team has 0-1 now. Participants of Group A are also Cuba, Dominican Republic and Canada. Quarters: 25-26, 14-18, 27-25, 26-14. Brazil will play against Canada today. Venezuela will take on strong Dominican Republic.

Brazil: Tiago Splitter 17+11 boards+6 as, Marcelinho Huertas 16+7 as, Guilherme Giovannoni 16+6 boards, Alex Ribeiro 15, Marcelo Magalhaes 11
Venezuela: Greivis Vasquez 26+7 as, Gregory Echenique 12+7 boards, David Cubillan 11



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Women News

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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Asia-Basket.com All-Asian Championships Awards 2011 - by Greg
Asia-Basket.com All-Tournament 1st Team
#s#
LiJie Miao
Miao
Youn Ah Choi
Choi
Yuko Oga
Oga
Jung Ja Sin
Sin
Nan Chen
Chen
#e#5

Best Player: Miao LiJie (180-G-81) of China
Best Guard: Choi Youn Ah (170-G-85) of S.Korea
Best Forward: Miao LiJie (180-G-81) of China
Best Center: Chen Nan (197-C-83) of China
Best Coach: Sun Fengwu of China

1st Team
G: Choi Youn Ah (170-85) of S.Korea
G: Yuko Oga (170-82) of Japan
G: Miao LiJie (180-81) of China
F/C: Sin Jung Ja (185-80) of S.Korea
C: Chen Nan (197-83) of China

2nd Team
G: Asami Yoshida (165-87) of Japan
G/F: Wulan Ningrum (174-85) of Indonesia
F: Tamara Seregina (182-90) of Kazakhstan
F: Ma Zengyu (183-84) of China
C: Brittany Denson (192-87) of Lebanon

Honorable Mention
Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) of India
Yelena Khusnitdinova (178-F-85) of Uzbekistan
Chiang Feng-Chun (184-F-81) of Taiwan
Maki Takada (183-C-89) of Japan
Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) of Indonesia
Zalina Kurazova (184-F-85) of Kazakhstan
Hui Pin Pang (176-90) of Malaysia
Kim Jung Eun (180-F-87) of S.Korea

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  BULGARIA - Women  


Slavia signs Stanislava Stankova - by Eurobasket News
Stanislava Stankova is a new member of Slavia. The Bulgarian guard signed a deal for the next season. Stankova heads to Slavia from Levski Sofia, where she spent last season. Actually, she started there but left in January. For 10 games in NBL Stankova averaged 15.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Before Levski, She spent one year with Academic 2003 Sofia. In 2007/08, Stanislava Stankova was a member of Cherno More Odessos. She had 15.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2.8 apg and 3.8 spg for them in five games (A2). In the past, Stankova also played for NSA Delta. Stanislava Stankova played for U20, U18 and U16 Bulgarian NT.

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Promotiedivisie standings - by Eurobasket
Promotiedivisie Standings
 1. Akrides 0-0 
 2. Almere Pioneers 0-0 
 3. Almonte 0-0 
 4. Amazone 0-0 
 5. Amsterdam 0-0 
 6. Black Eagles 0-0 
 7. Cangeroes 0-0 
 8. DAS 0-0 
 9. De Groene Uilen 0-0 
 10. EBV Baros 0-0 
 11. Grasshoppers 2 0-0 
 12. Jugglers 0-0 
 13. U.S. 0-0 
 14. Yellow Sox 0-0 


Standings - Women
Eredivisie Standings
 1. Binnenland 0-0 
 2. CTO 0-0 
 3. Eurosped 0-0 
 4. Grasshoppers 0-0 
 5. HLB Account. 0-0 
 6. Lekdetec.nl 0-0 
 7. ProBuild Lions 0-0 
 8. Wereldtickets.nl 0-0 


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  JAPAN - Women  


Standings - JBL Women
WJBL Standings
 1. Airlines R. 0-0 
 2. Aishin AW 0-0 
 3. Chanson V-M 0-0 
 4. Denso Iris 0-0 
 5. Fujitsu RW 0-0 
 6. JX Sunflowers 0-0 
 7. Mitsubishi K. 0-0 
 8. Toyota A. 0-0 


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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Standings - Women
Diekirch League Standings
 1. AB Contern 0-0 
 2. Amicale 0-0 
 3. Basket Esch 0-0 
 4. Etzella 0-0 
 5. Heffingen 0-0 
 6. Musel Pikes 0-0 
 7. Racing 0-0 
 8. Residence 0-0 
 9. T71 Dudelange 0-0 
 10. Telstar 0-0 


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  NCAA1 - Women  


Summitt's Lady Vols to play in Maggie Dixon Classic - by Eurobasket News
Pat Summitt and the Tennessee Lady Vols will return to Madison Square Garden to play DePaul in the sixth annual Maggie Dixon Classic on Dec. 11.

'Once again, it's an honor for the Tennessee Lady Vols to be included in the Maggie Dixon Classic,' said Summitt, who surprised the sports world with her announcement last Tuesday that she had been diagnosed with early onset dementia - the Alzheimer's type. 'It's more than just a December doubleheader in Madison Square Garden, it's an event to celebrate the memory of an outstanding coach.'

Summitt is the winningest coach in the history of men's or women's college basketball.

Brittney Griner and the Baylor Lady Bears will play St. John's in the opener of the Classic. The 6-foot-8 junior phenom had a great Garden debut as a freshman, scoring 25 points and blocking three shots in the Lady Bears win over Boston College in 2009.

Both Tennessee and DePaul will stay in the area after their games as the Lady Vols will visit Rutgers on Tuesday night and the Blue Demons will face Princeton the same evening.

'Tennessee will be No. 1 or 2 in the nation, going into the season and I expect Baylor to be the other one,' DePaul coach Doug Bruno said. 'This is exactly what Jamie (Dixon) envisioned when he first called and told me what he was thinking with the Classic - having top teams playing in it every year.'

Jamie Dixon, Maggie's brother and the head men's coach at Pittsburgh, started the doubleheader in 2006.

UConn tied UCLA's record 88-game winning streak in last year's game in front of 15,232 fans beating Ohio State.

It's the second time Tennessee has played in the Classic named for the former Army women's coach. The Lady Vols beat Rutgers two years ago. The Scarlet Knights had played in all four of the previous Garden events. Army hosted Ohio State at West Point the first year.

Maggie Dixon died April 6, 2006, of arrhythmia, probably caused by an enlarged heart. Her death came three weeks after her first season as a head coach, a performance that won the admiration of the academy and all of college basketball as she led Army to its first-ever NCAA berth. The Cadets lost in the first round to Summitt's Lady Vols.

DePaul is coming off one of its finest seasons, losing in the NCAA tournament regional semifinals to Duke. Dixon got her start as an assistant coach at DePaul under Bruno before she went on to Army.

While this will be DePaul's first appearance in the Classic, the school has played in the Maggie Dixon Surf'N Slam Classic in San Diego. The Blue Demons have hosted a tournament in honor of the coach the past few seasons.

'It says something to remember Maggie in three different tournaments across the country,' Bruno said. 'She earned the right and deserves it.'

St. John's returns four starters from last season's team that lost in the second round of the NCAA tournament, including forwards Da'Shena Stevens and Shenneika Smith.

The Garden will formally announce the Maggie Dixon Classic after Labor Day.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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  NORWAY - Women  


Standings - Women
Kvinneligaen Standings
 1. Ammerud 0-0 
 2. Gimle 0-0 
 3. NTNUI Basket 0-0 
 4. Oslo Tigers 0-0 
 5. Ullern 0-0 
 6. Ulriken 0-0 
Play in international cups:
 1. Asker/BV 0-0 


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  POLAND - Women  


Standings - PLKK
PLKK Standings
 1. Artego Bydg. 0-0 
 2. CCC Polkowice 0-0 
 3. Energa Torun 0-0 
 4. Gorzow 0-0 
 5. Inea AZS 0-0 
 6. Lider Pruszkow 0-0 
 7. LKS Siemens 0-0 
 8. Lotos Gdynia 0-0 
 9. MUKS Poznan 0-0 
 10. Odra Brzeg 0-0 
 11. ROW Rybnik 0-0 
 12. Tecza Leszno 0-0 
 13. Widzew 0-0 
 14. Wisla Can-Pak 0-0 


Odra Brzeg and CCC Polkowice celebrate in friendly games - by Eurobasket News
Odra Brzeg celebrated in their first friendly game this pre-season. They grabbed 49-47 victory against TS Ostrovia Ostrow. Ebony Ellis (190-C-88, college: N.Illinois) was the leading player in Odra with 13 points. Natalia Tajerle (180-G-90) helped them with 10 points, while Inna Kochubei (174-G-82) and Magdalena Rzeznik (171-G-83) added 8 and 7 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Magdalena Parysek (184-C-89) was the only one with double-digits in scoring. She had 12 points. Their second best player was Kaczmarek with 9 pts. Quarters: 20:11, 15:13, 7:10, 7:13.
CCC Polkowice also played a friendly game and they handed 68-55 loss to Sokol Hradec Kralove. Joanna Walich (183-F/C-81) led the winners with 14 points. Quarters: 18:16, 23:11, 13:12, 14:16.

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  ROMANIA - Women  


ICIM Arad lands Porchia Green and Stanecia Graham - by Eurobasket News
ICIM Arad announced signing of Porchia Green (175-G-87, college: Ball St.) and Stanecia Graham (185-F-86, college: Washburn) for the next season.
Porchia Green heads to Romania from Greece, where she spent 2010/11. She was a member of AS PAOK Thessalonikis averaging 10.9 points, 8 rebounds and 3.5 assists for 21 games in A1. Season 2009/10, Green spent in Finland. She had 13.8 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.6 apg and 2.5 spg for 33 games with Kotka Peli-Karhut.
Stanecia Graham arrives to Arad from the Bosnian team Biss-Tours Celik Zenica. She helped them win Bosnian Cup last season. In Adriatic league Graham had 10.6 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 22 games. Graham paced Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje to Montenegrin league title in 2010. She exploded with 16 ppg and 10.1 rpg there and was named Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Import Player of the Year -10.

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Slovakian NT player Romana Vynuchalova joins Mann Filter - by Eurobasket News
Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) will stay in Spain for at least one more season. The Slovakian PF/C signed a deal with Mann Filter. Vynuchalova heads to her new club from Extrugasa Vilagarcia, where she spent last season. For 26 games in LFB she had 9.5 ppg and 4.3 rpg. Before Extrugasa, Romana Vynuchalova played two years for Flying Foxes Post SV Wien. She helped the Flying Fox to win two Austrian league titles. They also celebrated in Austrian Cup in 2010. At that time Vynuchalova was named Eurobasket.com All-Austrian AWBL Center of the Year -10. Romana Vynuchalova is active member of the Slovakian National Team. She averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds for them in 3 games at the EuroBasket in Poland this summer.

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  SPAIN - Women  


Slovakian NT player Romana Vynuchalova joins Mann Filter - by Eurobasket News
Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) will stay in Spain for at least one more season. The Slovakian PF/C signed a deal with Mann Filter. Vynuchalova heads to her new club from Extrugasa Vilagarcia, where she spent last season. For 26 games in LFB she had 9.5 ppg and 4.3 rpg. Before Extrugasa, Romana Vynuchalova played two years for Flying Foxes Post SV Wien. She helped the Flying Fox to win two Austrian league titles. They also celebrated in Austrian Cup in 2010. At that time Vynuchalova was named Eurobasket.com All-Austrian AWBL Center of the Year -10. Romana Vynuchalova is active member of the Slovakian National Team. She averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds for them in 3 games at the EuroBasket in Poland this summer.

Real Canoe extends American F Kate Mills - by Eurobasket News
Real Canoe is very active these days. The latest news from the club is a one-year contract extension with American forward Kate Mills. The 25-year-old player joined Real Canoe during the last season. She appeared 18 times in LF2 averaging 13.4 points and 5.7 rebounds. Mills started last season with Mcell-ALGES in Portugal. She had 14.8 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 2 apg for 8 games. Kate Mills spent 2009/10 season with Universitario de Ferrol. She had 10 ppg and 5.2 rpg for them in 47 games. Before Ferrol, she played for Navarra. Kate Mills graduated at the University of Massachusetts in 2008. She had 17.4 ppg and 7.3 rpg for her school as a senior.

UNB Obenasa Navarra adds Slovakian F Simona Podesvova - by Eurobasket News
UNB Obenasa Navarra Lacturale added another player for the next season. The Spanish team signed a one-year deal with Simona Podesvova (186-F-83). The Slovakian NT forward heads to Navarra from MBK Ruzomberok where she played last four seasons. In the latest one she had 18 ppg and 11.9 rpg for 8 EuroCup games. She ended as the fifth scorer and top rebounder of the competition. Eurobasket awarded Podesvova with Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 1st Team -11. In Slovakian league, Simona Podesvova collected 10.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg in 34 games. She played for MBK Ruzemberok from 2007. Before Ruza, Podesvova was a member of Kara Trutnov and USK Praha. She is active player of the Slovakian NT.

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  WNBA - Women  


Tuesday's games review - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota L. - Washington M. 73-56
Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) scored 21 points and passed for five assists as the Western Conference champion Minnesota Lynx kept rolling with a 73-56 win against the Washington Mystics on Tuesday night. Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) added nine points for Minnesota (24-6), which has won six games in a row. With Tuesday's win and Eastern Conference-leading Indiana's 92-90 loss at Atlanta, the Lynx are one win or an Indiana loss from clinching the WNBA's best record, which would guarantee home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Crystal Langhorne led the Mystics (5-24) with 13 points. Matee Ajavon scored 10 points for Washington, which lost its ninth straight game. *Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

L.Angeles S. - Seattle S. 68-62
Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored a season-high 27 points and the Los Angeles Sparks beat Seattle 68-62 Tuesday night, denying the Storm a chance to clinch a playoff berth. Parker scored 10 of her points in the fourth quarter, including hitting three free throws in the final minute to seal it. Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, college: USC) had 12 points and Ebony Hoffman added 11 to help the Sparks (13-17) remain 1 1/2 games behind San Antonio for the final playoff spot in the West. Sue Bird led the Storm (17-13) with 15 points. Hoffman's jumper put the Sparks ahead 65-57 with 2:12 remaining. Bird answered with a 3-pointer, but Jackson then missed a 3-pointer and Swin Cash came up empty on a jumper. Parker who hit one of two free throws for a 66-60 lead before adding two more. *Courtesy of www.newser.com

Atlanta D. - Indiana F. 92-90
The Atlanta Dream's 3-9 start is now a distant memory. The defending Eastern Conference champs are one of the best teams in the WNBA again. Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) had 28 points and Sancho Lyttle (6'4''-C-83, college: Houston) hit a short jumper with 0.9 seconds left to give the Dream a 92-90 victory over the first-place Indiana Fever on Tuesday night. Indiana clinched a berth in the WNBA playoffs despite the loss. But Indiana (19-10) has dropped all three games to the Dream (16-13) this season. 'We have amazing spirit on this team,' coach Marynell Meadors said of the Dream's turnaround. 'I'm very proud of them. There were many times when they could have folded up.' The Dream trailed 88-83 with just over 2 minutes left, but took advantage of a steal by Armintie Price with about 6 seconds left to race downcourt for the winning shot by Lyttle, who had 14 points and 11 rebounds. 'I was just trying to go as fast as I could and I thought that Sancho would be there on my right,' Price said. 'We can talk without talking, we know each other so well.' Lyttle had missed two free throws with 29.9 seconds remaining. 'I couldn't miss that shot,' she said of the winner. 'Nobody wanted to go to overtime.' Erin Phillips had 21 points and Tamika Catchings scored 20 for Indiana. But the Fevor turned over the ball 19 times. 'We had way too many turnovers and the game ended on a turnover,' said Indiana coach Lin Dunn, whose team shot 50 percent. Price had 16 points, but it is her defense that always sets her apart. *Courtesy of Yahoo

S.Antonio SS - Connecticut S. 78-66
The Silver Stars had sat in the same locker room two days earlier, trying to find an antidote for all that had gone wrong. They talked about each player being accountable, and knowing and fulfilling the roles that fit each best. 'Whenever any team is losing, we tend to point fingers, you know, Well, you're not doing this, or you're not doing this,'' Silver Stars forward Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) said. 'We looked at ourselves to see what we could do better. Because we were able to do that, that was good for us.' The moment of reflection paid off for the Silver Stars, who defeated the Connecticut Sun 78-66 on Tuesday before 6,934 fans at the AT&T Center to snap a six-game losing streak. 'It's like a monkey off our backs,' said Young, who had 15 points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals. 'It's not really a monkey. It's like the whole forest.' That's how dire the situation had become for the Silver Stars (14-15) - from starting a WNBA-best 7-1, to nearly fading out of playoff contention. But buoyed by Monday's intense practice, they got back to playing the 'Silver Star way,' coach Dan Hughes said. 'It's hard to really practice with meaning this time of year when you're playing like we're playing,' Hughes said. 'But we had to get all of the thoughts out of our minds and into basketball. Now we have to build on it.' The victory assured the Silver Stars' lead over Los Angeles for fourth place in the Western Conference would remain at least 11/2 games, and moved their magic number for clinching a playoff berth to four. 'I'm just proud of the way we bounced back,' said Silver Stars guard Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.), who scored 16 points and became just the seventh WNBA player to score 5,000 points, with 2:23 left in the second quarter. 'It's been a struggle here, but we stuck together. Hopefully, the worst is behind us, and the best is still in front of us.' Looking like the team that was once at the top of the league, the Silver Stars displayed balanced scoring in sweeping the season series from the Sun (18-12). Jia Perkins, making her third start of the season and first since July 12, scored 15 points, and rookies Danielle Robinson and Danielle Adams each tallied 10 as five Silver Stars scored in double figures. *Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

Tulsa S. - Phoenix M. 74-96
One game after not scoring a point, DeWanna Bonner (6'4''-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) tied her career-high Tuesday night with 25, leading Phoenix to a 96-74 victory over Tulsa, snapping the Shock's two-game winning streak. Bonner attempted just two shots in the Mercury's win at Washington on Sunday. Against Tulsa, she was 8 of 12 from the field. 'I came out a little more focused,' Bonner said. 'I was looking for my shot, being a little more aggressive. I guess it worked out.' When told of her stats and tying her career high in points, Bonner said, 'Really? I was focused, that's all it was.' Teammates Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) and Candice Dupree, who scored 23 and 14 respectively, weighed in on Bonner's performance. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

New York L. - Chicago S. 71-67
After falling behind by 14 points early in the fourth quarter, the New York Liberty made another big defensive stand down the stretch. Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 19 points, Plenette Pierson (6'2''-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) had 17 and the Liberty rallied to beat the Sky 71-67 on Tuesday night. Kia Vaughn added 15 points and Essence Carson 14 for New York (17-13), which had lost five of its previous nine. 'Our energy created a lot of things for us,' Pondexter said. 'Even though everything was kind of going bad, we let it go and just moved on. Once we channeled that positive energy into other things, a lot of stuff opened up. We weren't making shots but we got after it defensively. We made shots harder for them, which allowed us to get out and kind of get going.' Carson had 12 points and Pondexter 10 in the final period as the Liberty used a 22-2 run over a late 6-minute stretch in the fourth. In Chicago's last visit to Prudential Center on Aug. 4, New York had a 16-1 scoring edge in the fourth quarter and won 59-49. 'It's a testament to our defense and everything that we work on in practice,' Pondexter said. 'I just continue to remind us that no matter what, it's all we got, it's all we work on. ... If we really play and focus in on it, then we can shut anybody down.' New York won for the fourth time in six games. Both losses were by one point - including a 74-73 defeat at Chicago on Sunday The Liberty took three of five in the season series with the Sky, and the home team won each matchup. New York, third in the Eastern Conference, pulled to 2 games behind first-place Indiana and remained one-half game ahead of Atlanta. Chicago dropped 2 behind the Dream for the fourth and final playoff spot in the East. Sylvia Fowles scored 22 points and Epiphanny Prince had 15 for the Sky (14-16), who had won four of their previous five. Chicago finished with 22 turnovers, including six in the fourth quarter that New York turned into 10 points. The Liberty finished 36 percent from the field but made 27 of 35 from the line. Chicago was 43 percent on field goals (27 for 51) and 18 of 19 from the line. *Courtesy of www.8newsnow.com

Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 19-10 
 2. Connecticut S. 18-12 
 3. New York L. 17-13 
 4. Atlanta D. 16-13 
 5. Chicago S. 14-16 
 6. Washington M. 5-24 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 24-6 
 2. Phoenix M. 17-12 
 3. Seattle S. 17-13 
 4. S.Antonio SS 14-15 
 5. L.Angeles S. 13-17 
 6. Tulsa S. 3-26