EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/27/2011

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   


Financial woes douse the Midwest Flames - by Eurobasket News
The Midwest Flames have flamed out before they even started.

The minor-league basketball team, which was to be based in Peoria, was to play in the American Basketball Association and be coached by former Central and Indiana University standout A.J. Guyton (6'2''-G-78, college: Indiana), has folded because of money problems.

They didnt have any financial backing or sponsorship, Guyton said. I started hearing about a team forming in Bloomington and last week signed a contract to coach them.

Guyton said hes asked four of the players who had committed to play with the Flames - ex-Bradley players Daniel Ruffin and Matt Salley and Peorians Josh Edmonds and Rodney Edgerson - to try out for the Bloomington team.

Tryouts will be held in Chicago next weekend at the Attack Center.

The Bloomington team will play a 20-game schedule in the Premier Basketball League beginning in January at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

'There's not much difference in the talent between the ABA and the PBL', Guyton said. 'You attract the same kind of players who get similar salaries.'

'Players are paid on a per-game basis, ranging from $250-$1,000 per game depending on their abilities and track record.'

This is a better situation, Guyton said. Weve got a good sponsor, a TV contract and play in a nice arena.

Courtesy of www.pjstar.com

Shizuoka Gymrats added to ABA expansion teams - by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association announced that the Shizouka Gymrats, a team composed of Japanese and Japanese/American players based in San Francisco CA, will be a part of the ABA beginning this season. According to Joe Newman , ABA CEO, 'The Gymrats have played as a traveling team for the last couple of seasons and have been very competitive. This season, their schedule will be expanded considerably as they play games not only in northern and southern California, but make visits to Texas, Colorado, Nevada and Wyoming.'
The team is managed by Takuya Okada (5'11''-G-77). 'All of our games that we play this season will be charity games for the Great East Japan Earthquake victims,' stated Okada. 'We will even take the team to visit the devastated areas this fall to have basketball clinics for kids. We are looking forward to playing in the ABA; we feel that we have a competitive squad and this will help bring much attention to those in need in Japan.'
The Shizouka Gmyrats full schedule will be completed in the next two weeks. For more informatrion, email grjapan@gmail.com or visit http://gmyrats-japan.com

*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Standings - LigaA
LigaA Standings
North
 1. Quimsa 2-0 
 2. Regatas C. 2-0 
 3. Atenas 1-1 
 4. Sionista 1-1 
 5. La Union 1-1 
 6. Libertad S. 1-1 
 7. Olimpico LB 0-2 
 8. San Mart.C. 0-2 
South
 1. Boca Jrs 2-0 
 2. Wuber-Est.Bahia 2-0 
 3. Penarol 2-0 
 4. Club 9 1-1 
 5. GECR Indalo 1-1 
 6. Lanus 0-2 
 7. Obras 0-2 
 8. Quilmes MP 0-2 


*****************************************************
  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Marcus DOUTHIT
  USA
  (210-C/F-80)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Douthit, PHI21.9 
 2. Wright, JOR19.2 
 3. Ahmad, UAE17.0 
 4. Yi, CHN16.6 
 5. Hoskin, LEB16.3 
 6. Haddadi, IRI15.4 
 7. Koroth, IND15.3 
 8. Daghles, JOR14.8 
 9. Malabes, BHR14.5 
 10. Sitepu, IDN13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus DOUTHIT
  USA
  (210-C/F-80)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Douthit, PHI12.2 
 2. Takeuchi, JPN11.4 
 3. Haddadi, IRI11.4 
 4. Yi, CHN10.8 
 5. Hoskin, LEB10.1 
 6. Li Wei, MAS9.1 
 7. Kazemi, IRI8.9 
 8. Gorges, SYR7.6 
 9. Abbas, JOR7.1 
 10. Indrawan, IDN7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Mario WUYSANG
  (176-PG-79)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Wuysang, IDN6.4 
 2. Guganeswaran, MAS4.9 
 3. Daghles, JOR4.6 
 4. Malabes, BHR4.0 
 5. Kamrani, IRI4.0 
 6. Yang, KOR3.9 
 7. Akl, LEB3.8 
 8. Shonaka, JPN3.7 
 9. Lee, TAI3.7 
 10. Haddadi, IRI3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Osama DAGHLES
  JOR
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Daghles, JOR1.8 
 2. Ahmad, UAE1.8 
 3. Sun, CHN1.8 
 4. Lee, TAI1.7 
 5. Chang, TAI1.6 
 6. Wright, JOR1.6 
 7. Hirose, JPN1.6 
 8. Malallah, BHR1.5 
 9. Salem, UAE1.5 
 10. Kamrani, IRI1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Hamed HADDADI
  IRI
  (218-C-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Haddadi, IRI2.9 
 2. Zaghab, JOR1.7 
 3. Douthit, PHI1.7 
 4. Yi, CHN1.4 
 5. Sun, CHN1.4 
 6. Singh, IND1.4 
 7. Kim, KOR1.3 
 8. Sitepu, IDN1.2 
 9. Kim, KOR0.9 
 10. Tseng, TAI0.9 


China clinch title in dramatic clash versus Jordan - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
China - Jordan 70-69
The championship game of the 2011 Asian Championship lived up to the highest expectations. The teams came up with a first class drama and the puzzle was solved in the dying seconds. Abuqoura and Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) missed their attempts and the hosts ran away with the prize. China triumphed at the tournament and got the direct promotion to the 2012 London Olympic Games. China and Jordan exchanged baskets throughout the opening frame. China registered a 16:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Jordan surged ahead midway through the second frame. They posted a 36:31 halftime lead. China answered with a 9:0 run at the start of the second half. Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) scored seven points in a row to make it 51:42 for China late in the third term. Jordan did not allow the home team to run away as they narrowed the deficit to just three points at the final break 56:59. Jianlian Yi gave China a 66:61 lead midway through the final term. Rasheim Wright answered with five points as Jordan got as close as a single point 66:67. Yi Li hit a jumper bit Rasheim Wright answered with a triple to draw things level 69. Jianlian Yi hit a free throw and then both Rasheim Wright and Abuqoura missed their attempts as China escaped with a narrow win at the end. Jianlian Yi posted 25 points and 16 boards, while Liu Wei contributed 13 points in the win. Rasheim Wright answered with 26 points for Jordan. Abbas Zaid had 13 points and 10 rebounds in defeat.

3-4 place
South Korea - Philippines 70-68
South Korea snatched a tough win over Philippines in the consolation final battle at the Asian Championship. Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) scored 20 points to pace the winners. Philippines gained a 14:7 lead after ten minutes of action. Jimmy Alapag (177-G-77, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) gave the Filipino team an 18:7 lead midway through the second term. They maintained the lead and arrived at the interval up by as many as 7 points 24:17. Williams made it 30:19 for Philippines early in the third term. South Korea answered with a 9:1 run to cut the deficit. Philippines however picked up the slack and earned a 47:36 advantage at the final intermission. But it was Cho Sung-Min who gave necessary spark for South Korea. He unleashed 15 points in the fourth frame as South Korea pulled ahead and sealed a narrow win at the end. Kim Joo-Sung posted 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Oh Sek-Eun (200-C-87) added 9 points in the win. Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) answered with 27 points and 22 rebounds for Philippines. Jimmy Alapag provided 17 points in the loss.

5-6 place
Iran - Lebanon 87-65
Iran celebrated a comfortable win over Lebanon on the final day of the Asian Championship. The former champions cruised past Lebanon to clinch the fifth overall position in the ladder. Samad Nikkhah and Mahdi Kamrani (186-PG-82) posted 18 points each to lead the effort. Lebanon got to a better start to the game. They established a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. But Iran shifted the gear in the second frame. They unloaded 35 points to build a 50:36 halftime lead. The teams exchanged baskets in the third term. Iran secured a 14-point buffer before the fourth term. Iran limited Lebanon to only 10 points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Arsalan Kazemi (199-F-90) provided 17 points and 9 rebounds, while Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) added 13 points and 15 boards in the win. Ghaleb Rida (192-G-81) answered with 37 points and 12 rebounds for Lebanon. Mohamad Ibrahim netted 11 points in the losing effort.

7-8 place
Japan - Taiwan 81-72
Japan capped their Asian Championship campaign with victory. They outscored Taiwan to clinch the seventh overall position. Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85) posted 16 points and 22 rebounds to lead the charge. Japan stunned their opponents in the opening frame. They outscored Taiwan 28:9 in the starting ten minutes. Taiwan adjusted their offence in the second frame. They answered with 27 points of their own to cut the margin to 11 points at the interval. But Japan picked up the tempo in the third term. They slowed Taiwan down and maintained the lead well. Japan entered the fourth quarter up by as many as 13 points. Taiwan narrowed the gap to just 6 points 63:69 but Japan hung on to escape with victory at the end. Tomoo Amino (196-F-80) posted 14 points, while Keijuro Matsui and Takeki Shonaka (180-G-84) added 13 points apiece in the winning effort. Lin Chih-Chieh (192-F/G-82) answered with 18 points for Taiwan. Wen-Ting Tseng had 17 points in the losing case.


Asia-Basket.com All-Asian Championships 2011 Awards - by Eurobasket
Asia-Basket.com All-Tournament 1st Team 2011
#s#
Jianlian Yi
Yi
Osama Daghles
Daghles
Takuya Kawamura
Kawamura
Samad Nikkhah
Nikkhah
Hamed Haddadi
Haddadi
#e#5

Best Player: Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) of China
Best Guard: Daghles Osama (198-G-79) of Jordan
Best Forward: Jianlian Yi (212-C/F-87) of China
Best Center: Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85) of Iran
Best Coach: Donewald Bob of China

1st Team
G: Daghles Osama (198-79) of Jordan
G: Takuya Kawamura (193-86) of Japan
G/F: Samad Nikkhah (198-83) of Iran
C/F: Jianlian Yi (212-87) of China
C: Hamed Haddadi (218-85) of Iran

2nd Team
G: Rasheim Wright (192-81) of Jordan
G/F: Yue Sun (206-85) of China
F: Arsalan Kazemi (199-90) of Iran
F: Moon Tae-Jong (199-75) of S.Korea
C/F: Marcus Douthit (210-80) of Philippines

3rd Team
G: Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-88) of Taiwan
PG: Mahdi Kamrani (186-82) of Iran
F: Abbas Zaid (203-83) of Jordan
C/F: Christian Ronaldo Sitepu (200-86) of Indonesia
C/F: Kosuke Takeuchi (206-85) of Japan

Honorable Mention
Ibrahim Ahmad (179-G-79) of UAE
Abdulla Bader () of Bahrain
Hareesh Koroth (185-G-84) of India
Eder Arjo Gorges (212-C/F-81) of Syria
Batumalai Guganeswaran (182-G-82) of Malaysia
Samuel Hoskin (206-F/C-79) of Lebanon
Wu Tai-Hao (202-C-85) of Taiwan
Cho Sung-Min (189-F-83) of S.Korea
Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-77) of China
Mario Wuysang (176-PG-79) of Indonesia


What coach Tab Baldwin said before the final game... - by Maarouf Mawloud
I am working very hard for the final game against China so I don't have much time to discuss things right now but I'm happy to make a couple of short comments for you,eurobasket and sportkello.
here what coach Thomas Baldwin had said...:

Of course, our Federation, the team and coaching staff are very proud of what we have accomplished so far but there is one more game to go and our entire focus is on trying to find a way to beat a great China team. We realize that it is a huge job to beat this team but we came to this tournament for this one opportunity to win to go to London so we are not going to simply concede and give the game to China because they are playing so well right now.

We have received so many 'Congratulations' from our fans back home in Jordan and even from the Royal Family which is a tremendous lift for our team. We've had a very, very difficult summer with many disruptions within the team but we have stuck together and things have finally come together at the right time.

Our wins over Iran and the Philippines were great team efforts. The players played well together, committed themselves unselfishly to the game plan and put all their effort on the court. They totally put aside their individual goals and realized that the only name on the uniform that mattered was the name on the front of the uniform, 'Jordan'. Because of this, and this alone, we were able to change our mentality during the tournament and come together as a team. In today's game, win or lose, nothing is more important than this one, single point. With this, we have our best chance to win and the absolute right to hold our heads high no matter the outcome.

Regarding my time in Lebanon, I've held many jobs in many places in my career and, like every single coach in the world, there have been people who were against me and those who supported me. I learned a long time ago that I can never please all the people. Many, many people have their own agendas and their own choices of who they want to support. As long as you are winning, they remain quiet but the second you lose, they emerge and seem to shout louder than all the supporters ever did. This is simply the nature of fans. They only want to win and it's natural that they are impatient when you don't win since they don't see how you work, they don't attend every practice, they don't sit next to you at the computer watching the hours of work that goes into practice and game analysis and they certainly don't share in the, oftentimes, extremely difficult task of trying to figure out how to manage the personalities and egos of the players in your team and how to blend these into one cohesive unit. And, most importantly, they don't know how to coach...it's not their job so why should they know how to coach? Nor should they know! The fan wants to share in success and if success isn't there, they will rarely be patient and wait for a coach's work to come to fruition over time.

Lebanon has taught me one great lesson (after almost 30 years of coaching, I'm still learning). I will never again sign a single year contract since I believe that for me to be truly successful, I need time to make the players MY players in order to get them to play MY way. Here, with Jordan, we have taken big strides in achieving this but I believe the best is yet to come.

This championship is a credit to my players and the Federation who has supported us so well. The players have earned the right to play in this championship. For me, it is a priviledge to join them in this game as I still feel I'm a newcomer to this team. In time, we will grow even stronger together and become a better team. This is my dream, my hope and my goal. But, for today, for Jordan and my players, it is all about London.

I thank the many Lebanese fans who have sent messages of support to our team and some kind words for me as well. I accept them all for our team and hope that they add a measure of strength to our team and help us push this effort across the finish line.


Draw completed for 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship - by Maarouf Mawloud
Defending champions China were drawn with fellow East Asian team Chinese Taipei, Middle Asias India and SEABAs Malaysia in Group A for the Preliminary Round of the 2nd FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Nha Trang City in Vietnam from Oct 18-28, 2011.

The draw was conducted at the Media Conference Room at the Wuhan Sports Center on Sunday, the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship.

Group B involves Korea, who lost to China in the final of the inaugural FIBA Asia U16 Championship at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) two years ago, along with two WABA teams Iraq and Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Iran, the bronze medalists from Johor Bahru lead the fray in Group C also comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With only 15 teams in fray, Group D will see only three teams and all-SEABA affair Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

It is a great significance that we are conducting this draw for the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship on the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship, said FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani who presided over the draw proceedings.

The 26th FIBA Asia Championship will decide the champion team of FIBA Asia, while the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship will throw up the stars for the future, he said.

Group A: China,India,Malysia,Chinese Taipei
Group B: Korea, Iraq ,Uzbakestan and Lebanon
Group C: Iran,Qatar,Saudi Arabia and Japan
Group D: Philipines,Indonesia and Vietnam .

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


U17 Oceania Championship: Australia sweep the series - by Eurobasket News
Australia claimed three wins in a row against New Zealand in the U17 Oceania Championship. The Aussies thus advanced to the U17 World Championship to take place in 2012. Australia came up with a 71:48 win in the third game of the series.
New Zealand led by as many as four points after ten minutes but Australia turned things around in the second frame. They outscored the Kiwis 20:5 to ensure a comfortable 36:25 halftime lead. Australia dominated in the second half. They recorded a 55:40 advantage with one quarter remaining. The Aussies did not slow down in the fourth term and rallied to the victory at the end. Michael Luxford posted 19 points for Australia. Mirko Djeric and Matthew Jackson contributed 14 points each in the victory. Joshua Howe answered with 13 points for New Zealand. Mark Kelly produced 11 points in defeat.

Game 1: Australia vs. New Zealand 87:51
Game 2: Australia vs. New Zealand 86:48
Game 3: Australia vs. New Zealand 71:48


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


BC Vienna inks with Euroleague calibre forward Zarko Rakocevic - by Stefan Prager
Austrian capital city club BC Vienna has sensationally inked with forward Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) from Montenegro. The 27 year old forward last played for BG Igokea Aleksandrovac in Bosnia. He started his career at Buducnost Podgorica where he first saw some Euroleague action in 2002. After he tried to go the Ukraine in 2008 he signed with Partizan Beograd in Serbia. For Partizan Rakocevic played 17 games in the Euroleague reaching the quarterfinals in 2009. Rakocevic used to be a member of the Montenegrin national team until 2009. He has won championships und cup titles in Montenegro, Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. In 2009 he won the Adriatic League with Partizan. Last season he appeared in 9 games for BG Igokea putting up 6.8ppg along with 4.3rpg. In 23 appearances for the Bosnian club in the Adriatic League he had 5.0ppg and 3.1rpg. The BC Vienna strenghtened their roster for the upcoming season. Rakocevic is believed to be part of their future Adriatic League plans.

*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


Justin Hawkins signed with BK Minsk-2006 - by Eurobasket News
Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: N.Mexico St.) signed with BK Minsk-2006 for 2011/2012 season. The American Forward comes from Strasbourg IG (France-ProA, starting five).
In 2003-2004 he started for Utah (NCAA) and in 33 games averaged 5.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 26ast. In 2006-2007 moved to N.Mexico St. (NCAA) and became the 6th top-scorer with 15.6ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3Pts: 33.3%, FT: 70.3%. In
2008-2009 appeared in Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProA, starting five) and in 25 games showed 13.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 61.8%.
Last season Justin Hawkins played for Strasbourg IG (France-ProA, starting five) and had 9.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 61.1%.
Justin Hawkins recorded 20 points three times during the year. In the last game he collected 20 points at the Regular Season Round 30.There was an upset when higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (18-12) was defeated at home by eleventh ranked Strasbourg IG (12-18) 77-72. Chorale de Roanne trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 21-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 72-77 at the end of the game.


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


Division 2: Latest scores - by Eurobasket News
Belgian second division started more than two weeks ago and three rounds are already played. Here are the results:

Regular Season - Round 1
Sep. 10, 2011 St-Niklase-M.Hainaut II 69-52
Sep. 9, 2011 Liege II-Melsele 81-48
Sep. 10, 2011 Sint-Jan Ant.-Gistel 77-47
Sep. 10, 2011 De Westhoek-Excelsior 67-79
Sep. 10, 2011 Kangar.-Boom-Fleurus 62-68
Sep. 11, 2011 Essor Charleroi-Sprimont 80-75
Sep. 11, 2011 Gembo-Waregem 84-74

Regular Season - Round 2
Sep. 16, 2011 Fleurus-De Westhoek 80-64
Sep. 17, 2011 Melsele-St-Niklase 63-87
Sep. 17, 2011 Excelsior-Kangar.-Boom 67-74
Sep. 17, 2011 Waregem-Sint-Jan Ant. 81-61
Sep. 18, 2011 Gistel-Gembo 66-85
Sep. 18, 2011 Essor Charleroi-M.Hainaut II 68-56
Sep. 16, 2011 Sprimont-Liege II 53-70

Regular Season - Round 3
Sep. 23, 2011 M.Hainaut II-Liege II 65-54
Sep. 24, 2011 Sint-Jan Ant.-Melsele 77-85
Sep. 24, 2011 Waregem-Gistel 95-58
Sep. 24, 2011 Kangar.-Boom-De Westhoek 117-92
Sep. 24, 2011 St-Niklase-Excelsior 75-80
Sep. 25, 2011 Essor Charleroi-Fleurus 58-63
Sep. 25, 2011 Gembo-Sprimont 84-68

Schedule for Round 4
Sep. 30, 2011 Sprimont-Waregem
Sep. 30, 2011 M.Hainaut II-Gistel
Sep. 30, 2011 Fleurus-Liege II
Oct. 1, 2011 Melsele-Gembo
Oct. 1, 2011 Excelsior-Essor Charleroi
Oct. 1, 2011 De Westhoek-St-Niklase
Oct. 1, 2011 Kangar.-Boom-Sint-Jan Ant.

Standings - Division II
D2 Standings
 1. Fleurus 3-0 
 2. Gembo 3-0 
 3. Kangar.-Boom 2-1 
 4. Essor Charleroi 2-1 
 5. Liege II 2-1 
 6. Waregem 2-1 
 7. Excelsior 2-1 
 8. St-Niklase 2-1 
 9. Melsele 1-2 
 10. M.Hainaut II 1-2 
 11. Sint-Jan Ant. 1-2 
 12. De Westhoek 0-3 
 13. Gistel 0-3 
 14. Sprimont 0-3 


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


Buducnost Voli wins Memorial Mirza Delibasic - by Eurobasket News
Bosna ASA BH Telecom - Buducnost Voli 73-98

Buducnost Voli is the winner of Mirza Delibasic Memorial, which was held in Sarajevo this past weekend. The Montenegrin champion met the home team Bosna ASA BHT and handed them 73-98 loss in the Finals. Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) shined for Buducnost with 22 points in this game. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 15, Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) 13 and Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) added 11 points. For the hosts, Nermin Buza (206-F/C-91) delivered 14 points. Eldin Camdzic (195-G-90) and Alin Demic (202-G/F-91) had 13 and 12 pts respectively. Quarters - 16:22, 24:26, 20:24, 13:26. In the first game Buducnsot smashed Zadar 101-65. Bosna ASA BHT was better than Tunisian Etoile du Sahel 81-75. Buduncost will play in Euroleague qualifications on Thursday.

Bosna ASA BH Telecom: Nermin Buza 14, Eldin Camdzic 13, Alin Demic 12
Buducnost Voli: Nikola Vucevic 22, Cedomir Vitkovac 15, Vladimir Mihailovic 13, Bojan Krstovic 11

Capljina takes second place in Dubrovnik - by Eurobasket News
Capljina participated at the tournament in Dubrovnik this past weekend. The Bosnian squad managed to reach the Finals, but failed against Split. Croatians celebrated 65-59 win in this meeting. Domagoj Vukovic (206-C-93) led Split to victory with 16 points. Josip Sobin (203-G/F-89) and Ivan Mimica (193-G-80) helped with 12 and 11 points respectively. Capljina got 10 points from Zeljko Kljestan (198-F-92) and Kovacevic. They were only Capljina players with double-digits. First quarter was totally leveled and it ended with 16-16. Domagoj Vukovic and his teammates took control on Capljina after that limiting them to just 12 points in Q2. On the other side, Split drained 22 for plus 10 at the half time. Capljina was not able to respond after the breather and faced with 13 point deficit before the last quarter. Split slowed down and Capljina cut the margin to 6 points until the end, but that was all.

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Magen McNeil will return to Brazil - by Paulo Freire
The Vila Velha CETAF/Garoto/UVV/PMVV seems to seek the players from the 2009-2010 season, to fill their new roster in the 2011-2012 season.
After bringing back Bruno da Silva (205-F-81, college: W.Florida), the managers have announced the return of the american guard Magen McNeil (198-F-83, college: Arcadia) who played with Bruno at Vila Velha team in the 2009-2010 season.
Mcneil played NCAA on second and third division but was one of the favorites players of Vila Velha fans.
His speed and aggressiveness to the basket was some of the characteristics that the fans loved on him.
That will be his second season in Brazil.

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Levski Sofia to sign Macedonian Todor Gecevski - by Christomir Rackov
Macedonian national team player Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) has an agreement with Bulgarian club Levski Sofia and they will sign a contract for the new season. Although Gecevski fractured his left arm at EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania and will miss the start of the new season, the club will stay true to its word and will go ahead with the deal. The sides agreed a while ago and now Levski coach Titi Papazov confirmed it for the local media after the team's most recent friendly game. Gecevski is expected to join the team as soon as his arm heals.

This is the biggest name arriving at Levski for the new season. The 210-cm player will help the team with his rebounding and scoring skills. He will probably start practicing with his new teammates around the second week of October. Previous teams he has played for include PAOK in Greece and KK Zadar in Croatia.

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


Buducnost hands 101-65 loss to Zadar - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost - Zadar 101-65

Buducnost exploded in the opening day of the Memorial Mirza Delibasic in Sarajevo. The Montenegrin champion smashed Zadar 101-65 and will meet Bosna ASA BHT in the Finals. On the other side, Zadar will play against Tunisian Etoile du Sahel for third place. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) led the scorers in victory with 19 points. Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) and Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 17 points. Bosnian player who is currently on try-out Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 10 points. In the loosing squad, Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) netted 15 points. Filip Toncinic (212-F-84, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) and Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) stopped to 10 and 8 points respectively. Quarters - 23:19, 19:15, 27:10, 32:21. In the other Semifinals, Bosna ASA BHT outplayed Tunisians 81-75.

Buducnost: Bojan Krstovic 19, Nikola Vucevic 17, Bojan Dubljevic 17, Milan Milosevic 10
Zadar: Ive Ivanov 15, Filip Toncinic 10, Ivan Batur 8

Cibona wins in Lasko - by Eurobasket News
Zlatorog Lasko - Cibona 89-95

Zlatorog Lasko and Cibona played a friendly games this past weekend. Zlatorog was the host, but it was the former Croatian champion who celebrated 89-95 victory in this meeting. Jure Lalic (212-C-86) paced visitors to victory with 18 points. Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Kentucky) followed him with 17 points, while Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) and Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) added 11 points each. Grega Mali (197-G-84) and Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports) shined for the hosts with 17 points each. Luka Lapornik (195-G-88) stopped to 12 pts. Cibona played great when it mattered most to take this victory. They entered to the last quarter with minus one, but managed to make 20-27 for the final 89-95 victory. Quarters - 24:26; 19:21; 26:21; 20:27. Both teams will play more friendlies this pre-season.

Zlatorog Lasko: Grega Mali 17, Vladimir Panic 17, Luka Lapornik 12
Cibona: Jure Lalic 18, Antwain Barbour 17, Damjan Rudez 11, Brian Chase 11

Split wins tournament in Dubrovnik - by Eurobasket News
Split is the winner of tournament in Dubrovnik, which was played this past weekend. They outplayed Bosnian team Capljina in the Finals 65-59. Domagoj Vukovic (206-C-93) led Split to victory with 16 points. Josip Sobin (203-G/F-89) and Ivan Mimica (193-G-80) helped with 12 and 11 points respectively. Capljina got 10 points from Zeljko Kljestan (198-F-92) and Kovacevic. Quarters - 16:16, 22:12, 18:15, 9:16.
In the battle for third place, Dubrovnik was better than Metkovic 79-63. The home squad took control on Metkovic from the beginning and never looked back. Frano Karac (207-F-79) and Mise Diminic (208-C-89) netted 15 points in victory. Hrvoje Marin (189-G-86) answered with 17 points in defeat. Quarters - 19:13, 20:17, 23:14, 17:19.

Zadar beats Etoile du Sahel for third place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Zadar and Tunisian team Etoile du Sahel met on Sunday in the battle for third place at the Mirza Delibasic Memorial in Sarajevo. The Croatian squad was better celebrating 85-70 victory. Zadar took control on Zadar from the very beginning. They made 38-24 lead until the halftime and were looking comfortable. Nothing has changed after the breather as Tunisians were not able to reply and Zadar jumped to plus 20. It was 53-33 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Zadar slowed down after that and Etoile du Sahel cut the margin to 15 points until the end. Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) and Filip Toncinic (212-F-84, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) netted 17 points each for the winners. Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) helped with 15 pts. In Etoile du Sahel, Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) shined with 27 points.
In the Semifinals, Zadar faced with huge 65-101 loss against Buducnost Podgorica. Host Bosna ASA BHT outplayed Tunisians 81-75.

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Prostejov Knocks Off Astrum Levice 70-67 to Kick off 2011-12 NBL Season - by Surujh Roopnarine
BK Prostejov traveled to Slovakia on Friday night to take on last seasons champions from Slovakia in the first game of the 2011-12 Mattoni NBL season.
Starting a week earlier than the rest of the league, in part due to Prostejovs Eurocup qualification game on Tuesday against Lukoil Akademic Bulgaria, last seasons second-place finishers came back from a four-point half-time deficit to knock off the hosts from Levice. Travis Peterson (208-C-85, college: Samford) was the best scorer for Prostejov, scoring 18 points, while Esian Henderson (203-F-86, college: Cent.Missouri) led Levice with a game-high 19 points.
Matej Venta (187-G-84) was crucial to the win for Prostejov, coming off the bench to score 13 points and grab a game-high nine rebounds in just 17 minutes. Prostejov dominated the glass in this one, collecting 42 rebounds (10 offensive) as opposed to 26 for Levice.
PROSTEJOV: Travis Peterson (18pts+6reb), Dusan Pandula (196-F-84) (14pts+5reb), Matej Venta (13pts+9reb), Yemi Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) (13pts+5reb)
LEVICE: Esian Henderson (19pts+6reb), Keaton Grant (193-G-86, college: Purdue) (17pts+5reb), Michael Bernard (205-C-78, college: S.Florida) (11pts), Sinisa Stemberger (195-G-79) (11pts)


Standings - D2
1Liga Standings
 1. J.Hradec 2-0 
 2. Opava B 2-0 
 3. Proton Zlin 2-0 
 4. Sokol H.Kralove 2-0 
 5. Sparta Praha 2-0 
 6. Benesov 1-1 
 7. Liberec 1-1 
 8. Mlada Boleslav 1-1 
 9. Trutnov 1-1 
 10. Kladno 0-2 
 11. Litomerice 0-2 
 12. Prostejov B 0-2 
 13. Sokol Prazsky 0-2 
 14. Vysehrad 0-2 


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Robert Mitchell the ESL 2011 New York City MVP shines in his professional debut - by Darryl Reshaw
Robert Mitchell known as 'Sticks' the 2011 ESL New York City MVP shined in his professional debut in Uraguay.
His team won 71-70 and Robert scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while going 3-3 from the 3pt line.
Robert Mitchell was a very popular figure in the ESL this summer as he participated in the the Las Vegas and New York City events.
He is a high quality wing player that looked very impressive to all that scouts at the ESL.
He was always talking, smiling and joking when he was not on the court displaying his versatile all around game.
Robert is a former Atlantic 10 Newcomer of the Year and when he transferred to Seton Hall he averaged 15ppg and 8rpg in the powerful Big East conference.
He is a big time talent that can really shoot the ball and is very creative off the dribble.
The ESL scouts thought he could play in a league like Pro A France immediately but he took his talents to South America following former ESL MVP standouts Kyle Lamonte and Chris Hayes.
Both of these former ESL MVP's begin their careers in Uruguay but eventually landed in Argentina where they dominated in the 2010-11 season.
The ESL expects Robert Mitchell to have an outstanding season and will follow his progress throughout the year.

Robert Mitchell the ESL 2011 New York City MVP shines in his professional debut - by Darryl Reshaw
Robert Mitchell (198-F-86) known as 'Sticks' the 2011 ESL New York City MVP shined in his professional debut in Uruguay.
His team won 71-70 and Robert scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while going 3-3 from the 3pt line.
Robert Mitchell (198-F-86) was a very popular figure in the ESL this summer as he participated in the the Las Vegas and New York City events.
He is a high quality wing player that looked very impressive to all that scouts at the ESL.
He was always talking, smiling and joking when he was not on the court displaying his versatile all around game.
Robert is a former Atlantic 10 Newcomer of the Year and when he transferred to Seton Hall he averaged 15ppg and 8rpg in the powerful Big East conference.
He is a big time talent that can really shoot the ball and is very creative off the dribble.
The ESL scouts thought he could play in a league like Pro A France immediately but he took his talents to South America following former ESL MVP standouts Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, college: William Carey) and Chris Christopher Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy).
Both of these former ESL MVP's begin their careers in Uruguay but eventually landed in Argentina where they dominated in the 2010-11 season.
The ESL expects Robert Mitchell (198-F-86) to have an outstanding season and will follow his progress throughout the year.

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  EUROLEAGUE   


Referees gear up for new season at clinic - by Eurobasket News
A total of 120 referees and observers gathered in Istanbul this week for what has become an important preseason tradition, the 20th Clinic for Euroleague Basketball-FIBA Europe International Referees. The three-day clinic was conducted by the Euroleague Basketball refereeing department with the goal of reviewing lessons learned from the previous season and discussing the points of emphasis designed to help Europes best referees prepare for the new 2011-12 Turkish Airlines Euroleague and Eurocup seasons. Sessions were both theoretical and hands on, with referees meeting in conference rooms and also taking to the court to work on game-specific situations.

Presentations were made by the Euroleague Basketball Referees Commission as well as a number of special guests. Head coach Ilias Zouros of Zalgiris Kaunas spoke about game-specific situations, including managing screens offensively and defensively. Nutritionist Buket Mamur spoke about the importance of nutrition for the physical fitness of basketball referees. And psychologist Rinalda Germaniene spoke about the psychological qualities of a good referee.

The clinic came on the heels of the annual meeting between the Euroleague Basketball refereeing department and head coaches, which took place Wednesday. Euroleague Director of Referees Costas Rigas was able to brief the referees on the meeting and to discuss how best to learn from the head coaches feedback.

'With the referees we discussed two main topics about which we had already agreed with the coaches,' Rigas said. 'One was body contact, including hand-checking and post play, and this season referees will be more strict to help clean up the game, improve the show and meet the intent of the rules. The other was the behavior of players and coaches, and particularly fair and correct communication between everyone on the court. Sportsmanship is the goal and the coaches agree wholeheartedly. Beginning with the qualifying rounds next week, the referees will treat any behavior damaging the image of the competition and basketball itself very severely.'

Courtesy of Euroleague

Olympiacos officially lands one of EuroBasket 2011 stars Pero Antic - by Eurobasket News
Olympiacos officially confirmed signing of Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season. The experienced PF exploded at the EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania helping his FYROM to reach the Semifinals. It is the biggest success for the FYROM National Team ever. Antic appeared 11 times in Lithuania averaging 11.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1 steal. He ended as fourth rebounder of the competition and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships 2nd Team -11. Pero Antic spent last season with Spartak St.Petersbourg. He had 10.3 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 28 games in Russian league. Antic also added 9.8 ppg and 6.4 rpg for 16 games in EuroChallenge. Spartak won the Russian Cup and reached PBL Semifinals. Antic split 2009/10 season between Lokomotiv Kuban and Lukoil Akademik. He paced Lukoil Akademik to Bulgarian league titles in 2010 and 2008. Antic was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Forward of the Year -08, 10. In the past, Pero Antic played for Lokomotiv Rostov, Crvena Zvezda, AEK Athens and Rabotnicki Skopje.

Caja Laboral bring in Joey Dorsey - by Eurobasket News
Joey Dorsey (206-C/F-83, college: Memphis) is heading to Spain. The 27-year-old centre has agreed on terms of contract with Caja Laboral. The deal is meant for one season. Joey Dorsey spent the last season in the NBA. He played for the Toronto Raptors. His stats read 3.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per appearance. Previously Joey Dorsey had stints with the Houston Rockets, Sacramento Kings and D-Leagues Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Joey Dorsey was the member of the USA National Team back in 2007. He participated at the PanAmerican Games. The centre posted 3.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in Rio de Janeiro.


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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: New season about starting - by Rauno Hurmalainen
The new season 2011-12 is about starting. The tip-off will be on Wednesday, September 28, as last season Finnish Champion Pyrinto (Tampere) and Korihait (Uusikaupunki) meet on a TV-game. The rest teams will follow on Thursday and Friday. There are only 11 teams now on top level, when Honka (Espoo) ran out of money and is out. That means Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) is the only team from Helsinki area playing in Top League this season. ToPo has signed one more player from Honka as NT G Tuomas Iisalo (195-G-82, agency: Court Side) signed a 1-year-contract with ToPo, which has now 10 players on the roster.
The airlift is pretty heavy still as at least six foreigner players have been fired already. The last case took place in Joensuu, where local Kataja was not happy with American C Kenneth Walker (206-F/C-80, college: Alabama) and replaced him by Matt Terwilliger (206-F/C-85, college: Ohio St.), who has played the last three seasons in Germany. Passed season Terwilliger averaged 5,3 ppg - 3,1 rpg in 34 contests on Phoenix Hagen (GER-1.Bundesliga) roster.

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  FRANCE   


Robert Hite out 4-6 more weeks - by Eurobasket News
Cholet Basket announced that Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) will miss 4-6 more weeks due to injury he suffered at the beginning of the month (Achilles tendon). He will miss Euroleague qualifications and beginning of ProA. Robert Hite signed with Cholet during the summer. He spent last season with Limoges CSP Elite. Actually, Hite joined Limoges in February averaging 16.2 points, 4 rebounds and 2.8 assists for 13 games in ProA. He started last season with Israeli Hapoel Holon. For 16 games there Hite had 15.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.8 spg. In the past, Robet Hite played for Reggio Emilia, Montegranaro, Caserta, Tau Ceramica, Oostende, Melilla and Galatasaray. He also has NBA experience from the Miami Heat. Robert Hite is a product of the Miami University.

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  GEORGIA   


Diaz strengthened the roster for Armia - by Eurobasket News
Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL) strengthened the roster for Armia. The Puerto Rican Guard comes to Georgia.
Early in 2011 Guillermo Diaz was back to Arecibo. The 26-year-old guard signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrives from the Italian team Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro. He appeared 24 times in SerieA averaging 12.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists.
Earlier with Arecibo, Guillermo Diaz had 13.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.7 apg. He helped them win the BSN title. In the past, Diaz was a member of Biella, Caserta, AEP Olimpia Patron and CEZ Basketball Nymburk. He also played few games for the Los Angeles Clippers on season 2007/08. Diaz is active member of the Puerto Rican National Team. At the latest World Championship in Turkey he had 1.2 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 5 games.
The season 2010-2011 he started for Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five) and averaged 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 80.6%. In May signed at Capitanes de Arecibo (BSN, starting five) and after 25 games showed 12.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP-2 (58.3%), 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 70.9%.


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  GERMANY   


The Regular Season in ProA just started - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in ProA just started.

MBC - Ehingen 83-77

The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-77. American forward Arizona Reid (196-86, college: High Point) fired 23 points for the winners. Icelandic guard Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-88) chipped in 16 points and 5 assists. Swingman Kevin Bright (198-92) produced 24 points and naturalized American guard Akeem Vargas (191-90, college: Iowa Lakes CC) added 19 points respectively for lost side. Ehingen/Urspringschule's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
MBC: A.Reid 23+4reb+1ast, A.Vilhjalmsson 16+2reb+5ast, D.Hargrove 10+3reb+1ast, S.Wachalski 9+5reb, P.Heyden 8+4reb+2ast, M.Schwarz 6+3ast
Ehingen: K.Bright 24+4reb+1ast, A.Vargas 19+1reb+2ast, A.Buechert 10+3reb+1ast, V.Matthews 7+10reb+1ast, A.Calvin 6+4reb, T.Jahn 4
gschID: 137209


Leitershofen - Crailsheim 68-105

The game was mostly controlled by Crailsheim Merlins. Leitershofen was better in fourth quarter 23-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Naturalized American forward Joseph Buck (201-81, college: USC) fired 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Naturalized American swingman Jeremy Dunbar (195-88, college: Arkansas Tech) chipped in 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Crailsheim Merlins players scored in double figures. Forward Dominik Veney (200-87) produced 16 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Skyler Bowlin (190-89, college: Missouri So., agency: Warren Sports International) added 12 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Crailsheim: J.Buck 22+6reb+1ast, D.Webb 20+6reb+2ast, J.Dunbar 19+5reb+4ast, B.Baptist 11+4reb+3ast, M.Hill 10+3reb+3ast, J.Stohl 8+1reb+1ast
Leitershofen: D.Veney 16+5reb, S.Bowlin 12+2reb+2ast, L.Stutz 10+4reb+1ast, C.Hassan 9+2reb, A.Kronhardt 9+3reb+2ast, J.Genck 7+1reb+3ast
gschID: 137210


Duesseldorf - Kirchheim 71-69

Gloria Giants managed to escape with a 2-point win 71-69 on Sunday evening. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Kirchheim Knights won third quarter 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Aubrey Reese (183-78, college: Murray St., agency: Interperformances) stepped up and scored 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and American-Liberian forward Patrick Flomo (203-80, college: Ohio, agency: Numbers Sports Agency) chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!). At the losing side American center Devin Uskoski (198-85, college: Rocky Mountain) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds and the other American import guard Cedric Brooks (185-80, college: Pittsburg St.) scored 16 points.
Top scorers:
Duesseldorf: P.Flomo 17+9reb, A.Reese 16+7reb+7ast, B.Paris 9+2reb+2ast, R.Keerles 8+8reb+1ast, M.Brauer 7+2reb, M.Petric 5+2reb+1ast
Kirchheim: D.Uskoski 17+15reb, C.Brooks 16+4reb+2ast, R.Tomasevic 13+1reb+2ast, N.Menck 8+5reb, S.Adeberg 8+6reb+1ast, B.Bekteshi 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 137211


Webmoebel - Karlsruhe 119-92

BG Karlsruhe was better in second period 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Webmoebel Baskets made 32-of-40 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Webmoebel Baskets players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by BG Karlsruhe helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Justin Stommes (200-88, college: E.Kentucky, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) nailed 23 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Jefferson Mason (198-88, college: Minn.St.-Mankato, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Rouven Roessler (200-80) came up with 19 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Michael Stockton (185-89, college: Westminster, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 21 points (made all of his ten free throws !!!) respectively for BG Karlsruhe in the defeat. Five Webmoebel Baskets and four BG Karlsruhe players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Webmoebel: J.Stommes 23+5reb+4ast, J.Mason 19+5reb+1ast, D.Lieneke 16+2reb+1ast, B.Spoeler 13+5reb+2ast, M.Fleischmann 12+2reb, J.Diggs 11+2reb+4ast
Karlsruhe: M.Stockton 21+4reb+3ast, R.Roessler 19+7reb+2ast, M.Samarco 17+6reb+4ast, M.Boggan 10+3reb+1ast, A.Rueck 8+1reb, M.Hubner 6+1reb
gschID: 137212


ETB Wohnbau - Braves 80-88

ETB Wohnbau was ahead by 10 points at the halftime before a 61-43 second half run of Saar-Pfalz Braves. They made 24-of-30 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. ETB Wohnbau was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Robert McKiver (191-84, college: Houston) who helped to win the game recording 30 points. British-Australian guard Lee Jeka (187-83, agency: Limelight Hoops) contributed with 23 points and 4 assists for the winners. Naturalized Croatian guard Marco Buljevic (197-87, agency: Court Side) answered with 18 points (made all of his seven free throws) and American forward Joey Henley (196-85, college: Sacred Heart) added 15 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) in the effort for ETB Wohnbau. Four ETB Wohnbau players scored in double figures. ETB Wohnbau's coach Igor Krizanovic tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.


Top scorers:
Braves: R.McKiver 30+3reb+1ast, L.Jeka 23+3reb+4ast, N.Gerwig 9+6reb+3ast, R.Cardenas 7+1reb+1ast, E.Land 7+7reb+1ast, K.Karamatskos 6+5reb+2ast
ETB Wohnbau: M.Buljevic 18+3reb+3ast, J.Henley 15+4reb, K.Chones 11+4reb+1ast, S.Schroter 10+4reb+2ast, P.Carney 9+3reb+4ast, A.Mirko 6+4reb+2ast

gschID: 149126


Cuxhaven - NBC 68-56

NBC was better in fourth quarter 21-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding NBC to just 6 points in first quarter. Cuxhaven BasCats forced 25 NBC turnovers. Strangely NBC outrebounded Cuxhaven BasCats 45-27 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Dwuan Rice (180, college: CSU Bakersfield) fired 10 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. His fellow American import guard Jackson Capel (191-87, college: Evangel) chipped in 9 points and 7 rebounds. Nigerian forward Ike Okoye (206, college: Boise St.) produced 13 points and 7 rebounds and swingman Cornelius Adler (195-89) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. NBC's coach Derrick Taylor let to play eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Cuxhaven: D.McDaniel 15, D.Rice 10+2reb+6ast, J.Capel 9+7reb+1ast, Q.Brown 7+6reb+4ast, M.Kuhle 7+1reb+1ast, K.Kuhn 7+3reb
NBC: I.Okoye 13+7reb, C.Adler 12+7reb+1ast, J.Harris 9+5reb+2ast, D.Taylor 8+1reb+1ast, M.Ides 4+6reb, W.Chavis 4+2reb
gschID: 137208




The Regular Season in ProB just started - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in ProB just started.
In Group North winless Schwelm lost to undefeated Stahnsdorf on the opponent's court 76-79. Winless Hannover managed to outperform Wolfenbuettel in a home game 94-87. Vechta managed to beat Bernau on the road 82-79.
In Group South Hanau defeated TSV Troester on its own court 71-60. Winless Dragons lost to undefeated Noerdlingen in a road game 77-87. Langen won against BSW Sixers at home 89-78. Winless Fraport SKY II lost to undefeated Leipzig on the opponent's court 80-96.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 23 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals by Kedrick Johnson of Noerdlingen.

Group North
SU Medien - Dorsten 81-83

Spot Up Medien Baskets were ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 29-19 third quarter run of Dorsten. American center Blake Poole (195-88, college: St.Martin's, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Terry Bryant (186-85, college: SE Louisiana) accounted for 24 points. Cuban swingman Howard Sant-Roos (198-91) came up with 23 points and 9 rebounds and center Daniel Theis (207-92) added 17 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Spot Up Medien Baskets in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Spot Up Medien Baskets' coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Dorsten: T.Bryant 24+3reb+2ast, B.Poole 16+16reb+2ast, J.Cadmus 14+3reb+2ast, G.Budde 10+4reb, P.Spettmann 7+4reb, N.Pelaj 6+3reb+1ast
SU Medien: H.Sant-Roos 23+9reb+2ast, D.Theis 17+8reb+2ast, D.Schroeder 16+1reb+6ast, W.Buchmiller 11+1reb+2ast, F.Theis 8+6reb, B.Wenzel 2+1reb+1ast
gschID: 137225


Stahnsdorf - Schwelm 79-76

The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. RSV Eintracht dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to SG Schwelmer Baskets' 36. American forward Kellen Williams (194-84, college: E.Washington, agency: Dynamics Global Management) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and center Michael Haucke (210-85) chipped in 10 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks. At the losing side center Julius Ducker (205-84) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds and American guard Jason Holmes (191-86, college: Le Moyne) scored 17 points and 6 rebounds. Five RSV Eintracht and four SG Schwelmer Baskets players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Stahnsdorf: T.Schoeps 16+3reb+1ast, B.Butler 15+1reb+4ast, K.Williams 14+11reb, O.Mackeldanz 12+7reb, M.Haucke 10+10reb+3ast, Y.Evans 8+4reb+2ast
Schwelm: J.Holmes 17+6reb+1ast, J.Ducker 13+10reb+1ast, D.Bunts 13+3reb+3ast, K.Speier 12+7reb, M.Kramer 7+2reb+3ast, M.Dohmen 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 13723


Wulfen - ALBA Berlin II 75-69

The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-11. But ALBA Berlin II won second period 25-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Steve Briggs (178-85, college: Okla.Wesleyan) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Thomas Reuter (198-92) contributed with 18 points and 4 steals for the winners. Forward Tobias Grauel (195-86) answered with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Joey Ney (197-92) added 14 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for ALBA Berlin II. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Wulfen: S.Briggs 21+6reb+1ast, T.Reuter 18+4reb+1ast, D.Smith 10+7reb, R.Haenig 9+2reb+3ast, N.Janoschek 8+7reb, S.Hummelt 7+3reb+2ast
ALBA Berlin II: T.Grauel 20+7reb+4ast, J.Ney 14+9reb+2ast, L.Tolksdorf 11+9reb+1ast, C.Dinc 7+6reb, M.Marin 6+2ast, A.Blessig 4+4reb
gschID: 137216
gschID: 137218


Bernau - Vechta 79-82

The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 21-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. SSV Lok Bernau was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American center Joe Wolfinger (213-85, college: Citadel) stepped up and scored 16 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and guard Marvin Boadu (193-89) chipped in 20 points and 4 assists. Four SC Rasta Vechta players scored in double figures. At the losing side point guard Martin Bogdanov (183-92) responded with 20 points and 7 assists and American power forward Martinis Woody (201-82, college: Benedict) scored 10 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Vechta: M.Boadu 20+1reb+4ast, F.Stuckemann 17+5reb+2ast, J.Wolfinger 16+9reb, A.Rudowitz 11+12reb, D.Krause 9+1ast, M.Reid 7+2reb+1ast
Bernau: M.Bogdanov 20+3reb+7ast, M.Woody 10+8reb+2ast, S.Trzcionka 10+4reb+3ast, D.Klein 9+6reb+2ast, M.Dathe 9+3ast, J.Heide 9+5reb+3ast
gschID: 137214


Group South
Gotha - BG Illertal 86-80

BG Illertal/Weissenhorn trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 29-20 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 80-86 at the end of the game. They outrebounded BG Illertal/Weissenhorn 38-27 including 25 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by BG Illertal/Weissenhorn helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Torvoris Baker (203-83, college: Detroit Mercy) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and forward Leo Niebuhr (208-86) chipped in 18 points. Five Oettinger Rockets Gotha players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Harlan Fuller (185-88, college: Molloy) responded with 19 points and 7 assists and Croatian center Mirko Soyer (212-78) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. BG Illertal/Weissenhorn's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Gotha: L.Niebuhr 18+4reb+2ast, T.Jarmusz 15+5reb+3ast, D.Watson 14+2reb+2ast, T.Baker 13+12reb+1ast, A.Kuppe 12+3reb+1ast, M.Monk 10+9reb+4ast
BG Illertal: H.Fuller 19+1reb+7ast, M.Soyer 15+8reb, M.Heberlein 13+3reb+2ast, F.Oladipo 8+2reb+3ast, M.Simic 7+2reb, M.Wenzl 7+4reb
gschID: 137231


Hanau - TSV Troester 71-60

The game was mostly controlled by Hanau. TSV Troester was better in second period 17-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Center Ilja Ickert (201-81) stepped up and scored 17 points for the winners and Indian-American guard Anish Sharda (191-82, college: St.Mary's (KS)) chipped in 15 points. At the losing side forward Tobias Korndoerfer (200-90) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds and point guard Daniel Schmidt (186-90) scored 13 points. Four TSV Troester players scored in double figures. TSV Troester's coach Jamie Duncan let to play eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Hanau: I.Ickert 17+1reb+1ast, A.Sharda 15+2reb+2ast, S.Koehnert 12+1reb+2ast, M.Schick 9+4reb+1ast, C.Miles 7+6reb, J.Hirschberg 7+1reb+1ast
TSV Troester: D.Schmidt 13+1reb+3ast, T.Korndoerfer 13+7reb, I.Pavic 10+2reb+2ast, J.Dippold 10+1reb+1ast, S.Dinkel 4+3reb+1ast, NEUMANN 3+5reb+1ast
gschID: 137232


Noerdlingen - Dragons 87-77

Dragons Rhoendorf was better in fourth quarter 18-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Noerdlingen made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Dragons Rhoendorf was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Jason Jamerson (188-86, college: Grand Valley St.) stepped up and scored 24 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners and his fellow American import forward Kedrick Johnson (192-83, college: Lee) chipped in 23 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (perfect from the field making all ten shots !!!). Four Noerdlingen players scored in double figures. At the losing side center Ilja Ickert (201-81) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and Latvian power forward Edmunds Tukiss (200-89) scored 17 points.
Top scorers:
Noerdlingen: J.Jamerson 24+8reb+9ast, K.Johnson 23+10reb+4ast, F.Brutting 15+5reb+1ast, D.Rotim 12+6reb+6ast, J.Eichler 7+3reb, D.Rastatter 6+7reb+1ast
Dragons: TURNBULL 20+10reb+1ast, E.Tukiss 17+2reb+2ast, K.Reksna 9+1reb+1ast, Osaby 8+4reb, N.Larsen 7+3reb+8ast, T.Eisenberger 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 137233


Langen - BSW Sixers 89-78

The game was mostly controlled by TV 1862 Langen. BSW Sixers was better in second period 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TV 1862 Langen dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to BSW Sixers' 24. BSW Sixers were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court. Power forward Luke Fitzgerald (202-87, college: Cumberlands, agency: Duran International) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and guard Nathan Drury (188-85, college: Carroll) chipped in 17 points and 7 assists (made all of his seven free throws). Fitzgerald is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the losing side forward Aaron Fleetwood (206-84, college: Delaware St., agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds and point guard Omar Johnson (170-85, college: UTSA) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws).
Top scorers:
Langen: L.Fitzgerald 22+12reb+1ast, N.Drury 17+4reb+7ast, J.Domdey 16+4reb+2ast, M.Voeller 10+9reb+2ast, N.Butz 10+4reb, M.Schneider 6
BSW Sixers: O.Johnson 18+5reb+1ast, F.Diestelhorst 16+5reb, A.Fleetwood 13+11reb+3ast, S.Ahnsehl 12+5reb+4ast, M.Haut 10+1ast, P.Muensinger 7+3reb
gschID: 137234


Giessen - Licher Baeren 55-82

Giessen Pointers managed to win fourth quarter 27-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Licher Baeren dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Giessen Pointers' 18. They outrebounded Giessen Pointers 35-22 including 27 on the defensive glass. American forward Tyrone Bradshaw (203-86, college: S.Indiana, agency: KMG Sports Management) fired 20 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Center Javon Baumann (203-92) chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds. Bradshaw is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Licher Baeren players scored in double figures. American forward Danny Sumner (201-87, college: William & Mary) produced 21 points and forward Dominic Lockhart (193-94) added 10 points respectively for lost side. Giessen Pointers' coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Licher Baeren: T.Bradshaw 20+9reb+1ast, J.Baumann 13+9reb+2ast, G.Aud 12+3reb+2ast, B.Chappell 12+2reb, R.Christen 7+4reb, N.Dilukila 6+2reb
Giessen: D.Sumner 21+4reb, D.Lockhart 10+3reb+1ast, V.Zabel 9, Z.Pavlovic 9+1reb+4ast, F.Rotaru 3+6reb+1ast, B.Moten 2+1reb
gschID: 137235


Leipzig - Fraport SKY II 96-80

The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 58-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. USC Leipzig dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Fraport Skyliners II's 34. USC Leipzig forced 19 Fraport Skyliners II turnovers. Power forward Ralph Schirmer (203-86) stepped up and scored 24 points (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners and American guard Lamar Morinia (183-81, college: Montana St.-Northern) chipped in 18 points and 5 assists. USC Leipzig's coach Dimitris Polychroniadis used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side forward Fabian Franke (198-88) responded with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and American forward Demetrius Jemison (203, college: Manhattan) scored 22 points and 5 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!). Five USC Leipzig and four Fraport Skyliners II players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Leipzig: R.Schirmer 24+4reb+1ast, L.Morinia 18+3reb+5ast, M.Pratt 16+4reb+6ast, W.Simon 12+5reb+1ast, R.Frohlich 10+3reb+2ast, K.Kranz 8
Fraport SKY II: D.Jemison 22+5reb, F.Franke 19+5reb+6ast, F.Theilig 13+1reb, M.Merz 11+4reb+5ast, B.Nicolay 9+1reb+2ast, T.Oldenburg 6+7reb
gschID: 137236




Brose Baskets celebrate Domreiter Cup title - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - Bayern Munich 106:66

Brose Baskets triumphed at pre-season Domreiter Cup. They overcame Bayern Munich in the title game yesterday. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) posted 16 points to lead the effort.
Brose Baskets used an 8:0 run to establish a 22:14 lead early in the game. Brose Baskets maintained the advantage throughout the second term. They posted a 53:43 halftime advantage. Bamberg went on a 14:0 run in the third term to build a 68:46 lead. Brose Baskets entered the final quarter up by as many as 26 points 77:51 and never looked back en route to the victory. Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) posted 14 points each for the winners. Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) contributed 12 points for Bamberg. Aleksandar Nadjfeji (203-F-76) answered with 16 points for Bayern. Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Ohio St.) produced 13 points in the loss.

Brose Baskets: P.J. P.J. Tucker 16, Casey Jacobsen 14, Anton Gavel 14
Bayern Munich: Aleksandar Nadjfeji 16, Je'Kel Foster 13


Corey Stokes signs pro-deal in Germany, BBC Bayreuth - by Eurobasket News
Corey Stokes (6'5''-G-88) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a one-year deal with BBC Bayreuth. The German squad decided not to keep Kelvin Torbert. Corey Stokes is a product of Villanova University, where he graduated few months ago. He had 14.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.3 apg for his school as a senior (29 games). It was a nice improvement after 9.5 ppg and 4 rpg fro 32 games as a junior. Stokes was named East 3rd Team -11. Corey Stokes participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) this year. He appeared in three games averaging 16 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3 assists. In 2008 with Villanueva, Stokes reached NCAA Sweet 16.

Acha Njei Joins The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Artland Dragons announced today that they have found a replacement for the injured Christian Hoffmann with Acha Njei (190-G-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement). Njei is a 26 year old 190cm guard who played for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg the last two years. He was able to convince head coach Stefan Koch in a try out and rewarded with a one year contract. Njei didnt play much with Oldenburg the last two years playing a total of 7 Beko BBl games, 3 Euroleague games and 1 Eurocup game. 'Acha quickly found himself with us and was able to do his tactical home work well.He can quickly understand structures and is calm on the court. He fits to us, because he doesnt bring hectic, is athletic and good defender', stressed Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch . Njei started his basketball career in 2004 with Vegesacker TV (2. Regionalliga). He then played for the Bremen Roosters from 2005-2009 before going to the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Braves 1-0 
 2. Crailsheim 1-0 
 3. Cuxhaven 1-0 
 4. Duesseldorf 1-0 
 5. MBC 1-0 
 6. Webmoebel 1-0 
 7. Chemnitz 0-0 
 8. Heidelberg 0-0 
 9. Jena 0-0 
 10. Ehingen 0-1 
 11. ETB Wohnbau 0-1 
 12. Karlsruhe 0-1 
 13. Kirchheim 0-1 
 14. Leitershofen 0-1 
 15. NBC 0-1 


Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Robert MCKIVER
  Braves
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 30
 1. McKiver, Braves30.0 
 2. Bright, Ehingen24.0 
 3. Reid, MBC23.0 
 4. Jeka, Braves23.0 
 5. Stommes, Webmoebel23.0 
 6. Buck, Crailsheim22.0 
 7. Stockton, Karlsruhe21.0 
 8. Webb, Crailsheim20.0 
 9. Mason, Webmoebel19.0 
 10. Vargas, Ehingen19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Devin USKOSKI
  Kirchheim
  (198-C-85)
  Avg: 15
 1. Uskoski, Kirchheim15.0 
 2. Matthews, Ehingen10.0 
 3. Abercrombie, NBC10.0 
 4. Flomo, Duesseldorf9.0 
 5. Keerles, Duesseld.8.0 
 6. Smith, Kirchheim8.0 
 7. Capel, Cuxhaven7.0 
 8. Reese, Duesseldorf7.0 
 9. Roessler, Karlsruhe7.0 
 10. Land, Braves7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Aubrey REESE
  Duesseldorf
  (183-G-78)
  Avg: 7
 1. Reese, Duesseldorf7.0 
 2. Wendt, Webmoebel7.0 
 3. Rice, Cuxhaven6.0 
 4. Vilhjalmsson, MBC5.0 
 5. Stommes, Webmoebel4.0 
 6. Jeka, Braves4.0 
 7. Samarco, Karlsruhe4.0 
 8. Carney, ETB W.4.0 
 9. Bartels, ETB W.4.0 
 10. Dunbar, Crailsheim4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Justin STOMMES
  Webmoebel
  (200-G/F-88)
  Avg: 5
 1. Stommes, Webmoebel5.0 
 2. Rice, Cuxhaven4.0 
 3. Brown, Cuxhaven4.0 
 4. Catovic, Braves3.0 
 5. Harris, NBC3.0 
 6. Creekmore, Ehingen3.0 
 7. Bowlin, Leitershof.3.0 
 8. Chavis, NBC2.0 
 9. Matthews, Ehingen2.0 
 10. Hassan, Leitersh.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Dominik VENEY
  Leitershofen
  (200-F-87)
  Avg: 2
 1. Veney, Leitershof.2.0 
 2. Ides, NBC2.0 
 3. Flomo, Duesseldorf2.0 
 4. Lischka, Crailsheim1.0 
 5. McDaniel, Cuxhaven1.0 
 6. Petric, Duesseldorf1.0 
 7. Harris, Cuxhaven1.0 
 8. Smallwood, MBC1.0 
 9. Bowlin, Leitershof.1.0 
 10. Stutz, Leitersho.1.0 


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


Olympiacos officially lands one of EuroBasket 2011 stars Pero Antic - by Eurobasket News
Olympiacos officially confirmed signing of Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season. The experienced PF exploded at the EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania helping his FYROM to reach the Semifinals. It is the biggest success for the FYROM National Team ever. Antic appeared 11 times in Lithuania averaging 11.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1 steal. He ended as fourth rebounder of the competition and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships 2nd Team -11. Pero Antic spent last season with Spartak St.Petersbourg. He had 10.3 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 28 games in Russian league. Antic also added 9.8 ppg and 6.4 rpg for 16 games in EuroChallenge. Spartak won the Russian Cup and reached PBL Semifinals. Antic split 2009/10 season between Lokomotiv Kuban and Lukoil Akademik. He paced Lukoil Akademik to Bulgarian league titles in 2010 and 2008. Antic was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Forward of the Year -08, 10. In the past, Pero Antic played for Lokomotiv Rostov, Crvena Zvezda, AEK Athens and Rabotnicki Skopje.

A small injury for Batiste - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Fortunately for Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) and his team Panathinaikos Athens the sprain from which the American center suffered in the game against Fenerbahce Ulker for Gomelski Cup at Moscow was proved lightweight.
At the beginning of the fourth period the center of Panathinaikos Athens, after an effort for a successful attempt for a basket, did not fell properly at the floor. After a while, he moved to the locker room to determine the extent of the damage. Luckily for him and his team, the sprain was not serious. Thus, the experienced American center will certainly lose the next game for 'Gomelski Cup', but would not miss for a long period the preparation for the next season along with his teammates at Panathinaikos Athens, as at the following days he will undergo the appropriate treatment.


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


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


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


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ary SAPTO
  Muba H.
  (188-F-80)
  Avg: 16
 1. Sapto, Muba H.16.0 
 2. Sebayang, Pelita J.16.0 
 3. Purwanto, Pelita J.13.0 
 4. Effendi, Aspac13.0 
 5. Regowo, Aspac12.0 
 6. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.11.5 
 7. Kurniawan, Comfor.10.5 
 8. Novonsen, Bima S.10.5 
 9. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.10.0 
 10. Indrajaya, CLS K.10.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dimaz MUHARRI
  CLS K.
  (--)
  Avg: 8
 1. Muharri, CLS K.8.0 
 2. Heryadi, Muba H.7.7 
 3. Indrajaya, CLS K.7.3 
 4. Kurniawan, Comfor.7.0 
 5. Thoyib, Aspac7.0 
 6. Regowo, Aspac6.5 
 7. Rizky Ardian., Bim.6.5 
 8. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.6.0 
 9. Sabara, Comfort6.0 
 10. Sucipto, Pelita J.5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 4
 1. Purwanto, Pelita J.4.0 
 2. Sapto, Muba H.3.7 
 3. Thoyib, Aspac3.0 
 4. Cahyadi, Bima Sakti3.0 
 5. Heryadi, Muba H.2.7 
 6. Novonsen, Bima S.2.5 
 7. Indrajaya, CLS K.2.3 
 8. Trisakti, Aspac2.0 
 9. Wijaya, Garuda2.0 
 10. Sudjana, CLS K.2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Isman THOYIB
  Aspac
  (202-C-84)
  Avg: 6
 1. Thoyib, Aspac6.0 
 2. Purwanto, Pelita J.3.5 
 3. Wijaya, Garuda3.0 
 4. Nolland, Garuda3.0 
 5. Ramli, Garuda3.0 
 6. Sartika, Bima Sakti3.0 
 7. Kurniawan, Comfor.2.5 
 8. Nurman, Aspac2.5 
 9. Cahyadi, Bima Sakti2.0 
 10. Kurniahu, Pelita2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Putra NGURAH
  Muba H.
  (189-G-88)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Ngurah, Muba H.3.3 
 2. Muharri, CLS K.2.0 
 3. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.2.0 
 4. Sura, Garuda1.5 
 5. Mardiyansyah, Peli.1.0 
 6. Nurman, Aspac1.0 
 7. Junaidi, Muba H.1.0 
 8. Kurniawan, Comfor.1.0 
 9. Budianto, Garuda1.0 
 10. Arizki, Aspac1.0 


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


Draw completed for 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship - by Maarouf Mawloud
Defending champions China were drawn with fellow East Asian team Chinese Taipei, Middle Asias India and SEABAs Malaysia in Group A for the Preliminary Round of the 2nd FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Nha Trang City in Vietnam from Oct 18-28, 2011.

The draw was conducted at the Media Conference Room at the Wuhan Sports Center on Sunday, the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship.

Group B involves Korea, who lost to China in the final of the inaugural FIBA Asia U16 Championship at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) two years ago, along with two WABA teams Iraq and Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Iran, the bronze medalists from Johor Bahru lead the fray in Group C also comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With only 15 teams in fray, Group D will see only three teams and all-SEABA affair Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

It is a great significance that we are conducting this draw for the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship on the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship, said FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani who presided over the draw proceedings.

The 26th FIBA Asia Championship will decide the champion team of FIBA Asia, while the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship will throw up the stars for the future, he said.

Group A: China,India,Malysia,Chinese Taipei
Group B: Korea, Iraq ,Uzbakestan and Lebanon
Group C: Iran,Qatar,Saudi Arabia and Japan
Group D: Philipines,Indonesia and Vietnam .

*****************************************************
  IRELAND   


Moycullen land Luke Enos - by Eurobasket News
Moycullen have agreed on terms of contract with Luke Enos (201-F). The forward will start his pro career in Ireland. Luke Enos graduated from the Black Hills State University this year. The forward tallied 16.4 points and 7.3 rebounds per game during his senior season with the Yellow Jackets. Luke Enos made it into All-NAIA D2 1st Team for the second season in a row.


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


Grizzlies' Vasquez to sign with Israeli club - by Eurobasket News
Memphis Grizzlies reserve guard Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) is expected to sign a contract with Israeli club Hapoel Jerusalem this week.

The deal reported will include an opt-out clause that will allow Vasquez to return to the Grizzlies once the NBA lockout is settled.

Vasquez appeared in 70 games with Memphis in his rookie season, averaging 3.6 points and 2.2 assists.

Israeli league begins on October 16. Hapoel Jerusalem will meet Bnei Hasharon at home.

Courtesy of www.wftv.com

Galil Gilboa clinch third place at Domreiter Cup - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa - Gran Canaria 79:72

Galil Gilboa finished their Domreiter Cup campaign with victory. They defeated Gran Canaria to claim the third position in Germany. Courtney Fells (198-F/G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners.
Galil Gilboa posted a 24:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Gran Canaria surged ahead midway through the second term. The Spanish team secured a narrow 42:41 halftime lead. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third term. Galil Gilboa managed to pull away with a 59:58 advantage at the final intermission. The Israeli team boosted the margin early in the fourth quarter. They piled up an 8-point buffer and hung on to snatch victory at the end. Romeo Travis (201-F-84, college: Akron) posted 13 points, while Jan Martin (203-F/C-84, agency: Court Side) contributed 12 points in the win. Roman Martinez (201-F-88, college: N.Mexico) answered with 22 points for Gran Canaria. Juan Palacios (204-F/C-85) and Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) accounted for 12 points each in the loss.

Galil Gilboa: Courtney Fells 17, Romeo Travis 13, Jan Martin 12
Gran Canaria: Roman Martinez 22, Juan Palacios 12, Marquez Haynes 12


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


Kobe Bryant gets $6.7 million offer from Virtus Bologna in Italy, where he grew up - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) has been offered a $6.7 million, one-season contract to play for the Italian team Virtus Bologna, appealing to his childhood memories of growing up in the country.

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar spent part of his youth in Italy while his father played there. He speaks Italian, prompting Bologna to hope he might return if there's an NBA lockout.

Virtus Bologna general manager Massimo Faraoni tells The Associated Press he's been on conference calls between Bryant's agent, Rob Pelinka, Bologna president Claudio Sabatini and main sponsor Canadian Solar, which would provide the cash for such a deal.

'I think the fact that he's lived in Italy makes this appealing to him,' Faraoni said.

Virtus has given Bryant four different contract options, stretching from the one-year deal to two-month and one-month options, and a per-game deal that would come out to $739,640 per home game.

All of the offers are pretax and would allow Bryant to return to the Lakers immediately if the lockout ends.

Canadian Solar said its not directly involved in the dealings.

'The contract is being negotiated between Virtus and Kobe Bryant's agent. Canadian Solar is not at the negotiating table,' said a statement from the company provided to The AP.

Turkish club Besiktas and at least one team in China have expressed interest in the 33-year-old Bryant, who has won five NBA championships and been an All-Star 13 times.

Faraoni watched Bryant when he played in Pistoia's youth system in the late 1980s.

'I saw him when he was a kid, and he already had a lot of passion for the game then,' Faraoni said.

Bryant's father, Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant, played in Italy with Rieti, Reggio Calabria, Pistoia and Reggiana from 1984-1991. The elder Bryant now coaches the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA.

Virtus also reached out to Manu Ginobili, who played with Bologna before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2002. Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari rejoined his former Italian club Olimpia Milano on Tuesday.

Other NBA players are committing to play in leagues outside the United States.

Nuggets free agents Wilson Chandler and J.R. Smith plan to play in China, Denver's Ty Lawson will play in Lithuania and New Jersey Nets All-Star Deron Williams signed with Turkish club Besiktas.

Virtus has won 15 Italian league titles but none since 2001, when it also won the Euroleague for the second time.

Virtus has asked fans to send messages supporting the recruitment of Bryant to a 'Bologna for Bryant' email address, which will be published on the team's website.

Bologna opens the Italian league against Roma on Oct. 9. It did not qualify for this season's Euroleague, although the team has big ambitions after signing former Clemson point guard Terrell McIntyre, who led Siena to four consecutive Italian titles before transferring to Malaga in Spain last season.

'I think we already have a competitive squad for Serie A, but Kobe is obviously a great champion and he would make a great addition to the team,' Faraoni said. 'I would put us just behind Milano and Siena.'

The NBA season usually begins in late October but owners and players have failed to agree on a new labor deal. The two sides are at odds over how to divide the league's revenue, a salary cap structure and the length of guaranteed contracts.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

DNA results, Round 1 - by Armando Caporaso
In the first round of the new season for the DNA (National Division A) great start for the teams of the South-West division (defeat only for Matera) while zero victories for the teams of the South-East division. The more large victory it's been for Omegna on the court of Ruvo (84-63) thanks the good shooting percentage (68% by 2 and 58% total) and the great number of assist (26 against 11). The Paffoni closed the game in the last quarter (26-16) and get the first victory of the season thanks the 19 points of Daniele Casadei (199-F/G-81) (with 8 rebounds and 4 steals) and of Stefano Masciadri (200-F-89) (with 7 rebounds and 8/9 at shoot in only 21 minutes starting by bench). For the others 18 points and 4 assist of Tommaso Raspino (196-G-89, agency: Players Group) and 10 points for Franco Prelazzi (205-F/C-79) and Matteo Bertolazzi (181-G-79) respectively with 7 rebounds and 7 assist. For the hosts just Christian Villani (200-G/F-82) in double digit with 15 points and 4 assist, 9 points for Gints Antrops (202-F-82, agency: Interperformances), with 6 rebounds but also 9 turnovers, and for Marco Tagliabue (207-F-86) with many rebounds and 8 points for Davide Bonacini (190-G-90) and Frederic Emejuru (203-F/C-88) both with 4 steals. In the first game for Napoli important victory against Pavia (66-60) thanks the double-double of Andrea Iannilli (207-C-84) (11 points and 17 rebounds, 8 offensive, adding also 4 assist) and the great partial of the second quarter (20-11). Simone Gatti (201-F-82) was the top scorer of the match with 17 points and 5/7 by 3, 15 points for the Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (193-G-86) with 4 steals and 4 assist (but 4/12 at shoot), 11 points for Nelson Rizzitiello (198-G/F-84) with 7 rebounds and just 3 points for Nunzio Sabbatino (189-G-92) but with 7 rebounds and 4 assist. For the visitors 16 points of Federico Maiocco (200-G/F-83), 13 points of Riccardo Pederzini (198-F-89), 10 points of Roberto Cazzaniga (205-F/C-78) and 8 points with 6 rebounds for Luca Furlanetto (197-G-81). Easy victory for Perugia against Matera for 81-61 with a perfect second half (48-29). For the Liomatic 5 players in double digit: 14 points of Simone Bonamente (202-C-79), 13 points with 5 steals and 7 assist of Mattia Caroldi (185-G-82), 12 points for Luca Bisconti (206-F/C-82), and 10 points for Giacomo Chiatti (178-G-86) and Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-F/C-91) (in 15 minutes). Good game also for Riccardo Truccolo (188-G-89) that closed with 7 points, 8 rebounds and 4 steals. The Bawer lasts only for the first half, not enough the 19 points of Andrea Pilotti (196-F/G-80, agency: Players Group) with 4 steals, 15 points for Sebastian Vico (190-G-86, agency: Players Group) with 5 steals and 4 assist, 10 points for Gianni Cantagalli (192-G-88, agency: Players Group) and 9 points for the ex Siena Raffaele Martone (209-C-90). The Orlandina, having hoped for the repechage in the last days, wins against Trento for 71-69 thanks a good last quarter and the perfect match of Andrea Benevelli (202-F-85) that scores 20 points (6/11) and catches 15 rebounds (35 of ranking). Double-double also for Thomas De Min (203-F-86) with 10 points and 15 rebounds, 13 points for Fabio Zanelli (196-G-76) with 4 assist and for Pablo Albertinazzi (174-G-78) with 4 steals and 7 assist! For the Bitumcalor 14 points of Walter Santarossa (200-F-78) with 4/6 by 3, 12 points for Marco Pazzi (203-C-79) with 6 rebounds and 5 steals, 10 points of Marco Spanghero (185-G-91) and 8 points for Luca Conte (193-G-80) and Simone Fiorito (200-F/G-91). Only 7 points for Andres Forray (188-G-86) with 4 steals and 4 assist. In the other games:

Benacquista Assicurazioni Latina - Assigeco Casalpusterlengo 67-62 (M.Micevic 23 pts & 11 reb, T.Milani 5 ass, M.Venuto 4 stl)
Romana Chimici Anagni - Co.Mark Treviglio 75-63 (D.Corral 19 pts & 8 reb & 3 blk, A.Fabi 18 pts, A.Malamov 5 ass & 4 stl)
Enoagrimm San Severo - SBS Castelletto 66-68 (M.Cucinelli 21 pts & 10 reb, G.Fattori 10 reb, S.Ferrarese 4 ass, R.Marzoli 4 stl)
La Fortezza Recanati - Zerouno Torino 57-71 (M.Evangelisti 20 pts, F.Tassinari 17 pts & 3 stl, M.Portannese 9 reb)
Spes Fabriano - Consum.it Siena 52-64 (N.Mei 20 pts & 4 stl, M.Trapella 11 reb & 4 blk, A.Tessitori 14 reb, S.Simeoli 13 reb, N.Stanic 5 ass & 6 stl)
Liomatic Group Bari - AcegasAps Trieste 60-69 (A.Ruggiero 19 pts, M.Carra 17 pts, I.Ferraro 7 reb, L.Gandini 4 stl & 3 ass)
FMC Ferentino - Brandini Firenze 71-64 (S.Parrillo 16 pts, A.Capitanelli 9 reb & 5 stl, F.Guarino 3 ass & 5 stl, A.Iannuzzi-L.Ianes 9 reb)
BLS Chieti - Angels Sant'Arcangelo 74-78 (E.Rossi 23 pts & 9 reb, S.Rajola 18 pts & 4 ass, L.Bedetti 18 pts & 4 stl)

New Schedule Decided Tomorrow - by Edoardo Tamalio
Tomoorow (Tue. 27 September) the League's assembly will set a new schedule. This after the sentence that recognized to Umana Venezia the right to take part to the incoming main championship season. Tomorrow in Bologna all the clubs presidents and general managers will discuss the future of the league: after the Venicegate is predictable that someone of the representatives will ask for dramatic change in the main italian basketball league.

Interview with Marques Green - by Antonello Varallo
Marques Green (169-PG-82, college: St.Bonaventure) is the point guard of Sidigas Scandone Avellino and one of the best playmakers of European leagues. He is loved by fans for his spectacular style of play, for his quickness, for his leadership.

1-) Marques, Avellino confirmed many players from last season, so you already have a good team alchemy. But is it possible that you can have some troubles from this situation?
Marques Green: No I don't really see any negatives from this. Only positive because of the good group we have. To me it has gotten better.

2-) During your last seasons you played some amazing games, defeating Siena with an astonishing personal performance or serving 20 assists against Milano. What is the game you remember with more joy?
MG: It was too many games to choose from. For sure those games were great because of the situation but also some of the home games like against Caserta and Bologna.

3-) In 2008-2009 you played with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul, coached by Boscia Tanjevic, but maybe your season disappointed the expectations. What went wrong?
MG: Just wasn't a good situation. The club and people there were great but sometimes things don't work on the court.

4-) Avellino is a small town and it is not easy for the society to maintain the team at the top level. How do you live this kind of problems?
MG: It's small but its very comfortable to be in because of the American base and Naples. As long as I'm with my family things work out.

5-) You are undoubtedly a team leader. What are the qualities that a player must have to be a leader?
MG: I think the main thing is being a hard worker and also being unselfish. I thank God that he gave me those qualities early on in my life. And having great teammates like I have makes things a lot easier!!

6-) You become father at 17 years old. How this experience has changed your life?
MG: For sure it was tough. But family help big time!!

7-) What are your expectations for next season?
Expectations is to win it all. Thats always my mind set still upset how the season ended last year so can wait to redeem ourselves



Standings - B1
Nazionale A Standings
 1. Anagni 1-0 
 2. Comsum.it SI 1-0 
 3. Ferentino 1-0 
 4. Lago Maggiore 1-0 
 5. Latina Basket 1-0 
 6. Napoli 1-0 
 7. Omegna 1-0 
 8. Orlandina 1-0 
 9. Perugia 1-0 
 10. Santarcangelo 1-0 
 11. Torino 1-0 
 12. Trieste 1-0 
 13. Trapani 0-0 
 14. Bari 0-1 
 15. Chieti 0-1 
 16. Fabriano 0-1 
 17. Firenze 0-1 
 18. Matera 0-1 
 19. Pavia 0-1 
 20. Recanati 0-1 
 21. Ruvo 0-1 
 22. San Severo 0-1 
 23. Trento 0-1 
 24. Treviglio 0-1 
 25. UCC 0-1 


*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


What coach Tab Baldwin said before the final game... - by Maarouf Mawloud
I am working very hard for the final game against China so I don't have much time to discuss things right now but I'm happy to make a couple of short comments for you,eurobasket and sportkello.
here what coach Thomas Baldwin had said...:

Of course, our Federation, the team and coaching staff are very proud of what we have accomplished so far but there is one more game to go and our entire focus is on trying to find a way to beat a great China team. We realize that it is a huge job to beat this team but we came to this tournament for this one opportunity to win to go to London so we are not going to simply concede and give the game to China because they are playing so well right now.

We have received so many 'Congratulations' from our fans back home in Jordan and even from the Royal Family which is a tremendous lift for our team. We've had a very, very difficult summer with many disruptions within the team but we have stuck together and things have finally come together at the right time.

Our wins over Iran and the Philippines were great team efforts. The players played well together, committed themselves unselfishly to the game plan and put all their effort on the court. They totally put aside their individual goals and realized that the only name on the uniform that mattered was the name on the front of the uniform, 'Jordan'. Because of this, and this alone, we were able to change our mentality during the tournament and come together as a team. In today's game, win or lose, nothing is more important than this one, single point. With this, we have our best chance to win and the absolute right to hold our heads high no matter the outcome.

Regarding my time in Lebanon, I've held many jobs in many places in my career and, like every single coach in the world, there have been people who were against me and those who supported me. I learned a long time ago that I can never please all the people. Many, many people have their own agendas and their own choices of who they want to support. As long as you are winning, they remain quiet but the second you lose, they emerge and seem to shout louder than all the supporters ever did. This is simply the nature of fans. They only want to win and it's natural that they are impatient when you don't win since they don't see how you work, they don't attend every practice, they don't sit next to you at the computer watching the hours of work that goes into practice and game analysis and they certainly don't share in the, oftentimes, extremely difficult task of trying to figure out how to manage the personalities and egos of the players in your team and how to blend these into one cohesive unit. And, most importantly, they don't know how to coach...it's not their job so why should they know how to coach? Nor should they know! The fan wants to share in success and if success isn't there, they will rarely be patient and wait for a coach's work to come to fruition over time.

Lebanon has taught me one great lesson (after almost 30 years of coaching, I'm still learning). I will never again sign a single year contract since I believe that for me to be truly successful, I need time to make the players MY players in order to get them to play MY way. Here, with Jordan, we have taken big strides in achieving this but I believe the best is yet to come.

This championship is a credit to my players and the Federation who has supported us so well. The players have earned the right to play in this championship. For me, it is a priviledge to join them in this game as I still feel I'm a newcomer to this team. In time, we will grow even stronger together and become a better team. This is my dream, my hope and my goal. But, for today, for Jordan and my players, it is all about London.

I thank the many Lebanese fans who have sent messages of support to our team and some kind words for me as well. I accept them all for our team and hope that they add a measure of strength to our team and help us push this effort across the finish line.


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


Astana Tigers announced Igor Milosevic - by Eurobasket News
Astana Tigers announced Igor Milosevic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season.
In 2010-2011 the player started for Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (LKL): but in Dec,'10 moved to Trabzonspor Basketbol (Turkey-TBL, starting five). In 15 games he averaged 9.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 68.4%.
Last year Milosevic moved to the Lithuanian powerhouse last January and averaged 9.9ppg, 1.6rpg, Assists-5 (4.5apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 21.9%, FT: 63.0% in LKL and 15.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 5.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 72.2%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 81.3% in Baltic League.With Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius Milosevic won LKL. Over the last two seasons he became Lithuanian Cup Winner -10. Eurobasket.com Lithuanian LKL All-Imports/Bosmans Team -10, Baltic League Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Baltic League Finalist -10
Lithuanian League Regular Season Champion -10, Lithuanian League Champion -10. Last year he reached Turkish Cup Semifinals -11.


*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Draw completed for 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship - by Maarouf Mawloud
Defending champions China were drawn with fellow East Asian team Chinese Taipei, Middle Asias India and SEABAs Malaysia in Group A for the Preliminary Round of the 2nd FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Nha Trang City in Vietnam from Oct 18-28, 2011.

The draw was conducted at the Media Conference Room at the Wuhan Sports Center on Sunday, the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship.

Group B involves Korea, who lost to China in the final of the inaugural FIBA Asia U16 Championship at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) two years ago, along with two WABA teams Iraq and Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Iran, the bronze medalists from Johor Bahru lead the fray in Group C also comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With only 15 teams in fray, Group D will see only three teams and all-SEABA affair Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

It is a great significance that we are conducting this draw for the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship on the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship, said FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani who presided over the draw proceedings.

The 26th FIBA Asia Championship will decide the champion team of FIBA Asia, while the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship will throw up the stars for the future, he said.

Group A: China,India,Malysia,Chinese Taipei
Group B: Korea, Iraq ,Uzbakestan and Lebanon
Group C: Iran,Qatar,Saudi Arabia and Japan
Group D: Philipines,Indonesia and Vietnam .

*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


LNBP Round 10: Toros lose to Barreteros in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The game between Top Four teams took place in Zacatecas. Third ranked host Barreteros (8-2) defeated their biggest opponent Toros (7-3) 78-74. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-17. But Toros won second period 20-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Barreteros had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Toros' players. Jamaican forward Mugabe Thomas (193-80, college: Cedarville) scored 19 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Melvin Council (191-82, college: Robert Morris) chipped in 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. At the losing side the former international forward Jesus Lopez (205-83, college: SW Baptist) responded with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Barreteros keep a position of league leader, which they share with Fuerza Regia. Toros at the other side dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Barreteros is looking forward to face Panteras (#12) in Aguascalientes in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Toros will play at home against Abejas (#7) in Guanajuato and are hoping to win this game.
LNBP top team - Fuerza Regia (8-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Panteras (2-8) in Aguascalientes 88-78. American forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his seven free throws) to lead the effort and Alonso Izaguirre supported him with 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Even 29 points by Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (180-83, agency: TSS Management) did not help to save the game for Panteras. Fuerza Regia have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 8-2 record, which they share with Barreteros. Panteras at the other side keep the twelfth place with eight games lost. Fuerza Regia will play against Lechugueros (#11) in Leon in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Panteras will play on the road against the league's second-placed Barreteros in Zacatecas and hope to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Volcanes (0-10) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their tenth consecutive match to seventh ranked Pioneros (6-4) 138-55 on Sunday evening. Romel Beck fired 43 points (!!!) for the winners. Pioneros' coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Larry Morinia produced 16 points and 5 assists for lost side. Pioneros moved-up to sixth place. Loser Volcanes still closes the standings with ten games lost. Pioneros will meet Soles (#10) in the next round. Volcanes will play against Aguilas Rojas (#13) in San Juan and hope to get finally their first victory.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 10: Abejas lost to Halc.Rojos on the opponent's court 71-83. Huracanes managed to outperform Aguilas Rojas in a home game 87-73. Soles recorded a loss to Corr.Victoria on the road 85-73. Halc.Xalapa defeated Lechugueros on its own court 109-101.


Pioneros - Volcanes 138-55

Bottom-ranked Volcanes (0-10) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their tenth consecutive match to seventh ranked Pioneros (6-4) 138-55 on Sunday evening. The game without a history. Pioneros led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Volcanes to just 5 points in third quarter. Pioneros shot 61.7 percent from the field. They outrebounded Volcanes 52-21 including a 40-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Pioneros shot the lights out from three sinking 24 long-distance shots on high 51.1 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Volcanes' players. The former international swingman Romel Beck (203-82, college: UNLV, agency: Interperformances) fired 43 points (!!!) for the winners. American forward John Millsap (198-82, college: UTSA) chipped in 29 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). Millsap is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Pioneros players scored in double figures. Pioneros' coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Larry Morinia (180-80, college: Montana St., agency: ProSportsCareers) produced 16 points and 5 assists and guard Carlos M. Toussaint (190-91) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Pioneros moved-up to sixth place. Loser Volcanes still closes the standings with ten games lost. Pioneros will meet Soles (#10) in the next round. Volcanes will play against Aguilas Rojas (#13) in San Juan and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: R.Beck 43+4reb+3ast, J.Millsap 29+7reb+3ast, H.Llamas 13+7reb+3ast, R.Allen 12+11reb+3ast, G.Grays 9+2reb+2ast, S.Soriano 9+5reb+3ast
Volcanes: C.M. Toussaint 17+5reb+2ast, L.Morinia 16+4reb+5ast, Z.Alvidres 14+4reb, A.Clyde Nunn 8+2reb+3ast, M.Garcia 0, V.Velez 0
gschID: 137705


Halc.Rojos - Abejas 83-71

Rather expected game in Veracruz where 6th ranked Abejas (5-4) were defeated by fourth ranked Halcones Rojos (7-2) 83-71 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Halcones Rojos. Abejas managed to win fourth quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Halcones Rojos forced 19 Abejas turnovers. Venezuelan point guard Gregory Vargas (182-86) fired 14 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Puerto Rican point guard Carlos Rivera (187-83, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) chipped in 16 points. Four Halcones Rojos players scored in double figures. Halcones Rojos' coach Eddie Casiano used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American forward Marcus Jackson (202-82, college: Marquette, agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 13 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Lorrenzo Wade (198-85, college: San Diego St.) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Halcones Rojos moved-up to third place. Abejas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with four games lost. They share it with Corr.Victoria and Huracanes. Halcones Rojos will meet at home Correcaminos (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. Abejas will play against Toros in Nuevo Laredo and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: C.Rivera 16+3reb+3ast, G.Vargas 14+5reb+7ast, P.Stoll 11+3reb+4ast, N.Alonzo 10+5reb+1ast, F.Benitez 9+2reb, L.Bethelmy 8+6reb
Abejas: L.Wade 16+1reb+1ast, M.Jackson 12+13reb+1ast, C.Soto 10+5reb, J.Harris 10+1reb, M.McHugh 9+3reb, C.Castillo 5+2reb
gschID: 137700


Huracanes - Aguilas Rojas 87-73

Rather predictable result in Tampico where ninth ranked Huracanes (5-4) defeated 13th ranked Aguilas Rojas (1-9) 87-73 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 48-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Huracanes dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Aguilas Rojas' 38. They outrebounded Aguilas Rojas 45-29 including 31 on the defensive glass. Venezuelan forward Nestor Colmenares (203-87, college: Campbellsville) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Canadian guard Stephen Sir (195-82, college: N.Arizona) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. Five Huracanes players scored in double figures. Huracanes' coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Venezuelan point guard Gregory Vargas (182-86) produced 30 points (made all of his ten free throws !!!) and American David Mercer added 14 points and 4 steals respectively for lost side. Huracanes moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Corr.Victoria and Abejas. Aguilas Rojas lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth position with nine games lost. Huracanes will meet higher ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Aguilas Rojas will play against Volcanes (#14) in Toluca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Huracanes: S.Sir 20+6reb+3ast, J.Edwin 18+7reb+2ast, N.Colmenares 14+17reb+4ast, O.Quintero 11+1reb+2ast, R.Hornsby 11+1reb+6ast, L.Davis 6+4reb
Aguilas Rojas: D.DEANDRE DORSEY 30+2reb+1ast, D.Mercer 14+4reb+1ast, E.Hare 12+3reb, C.Gryne 5+4reb+2ast, D.Pineda 4+6reb, I.Silva 4+7reb+3ast
gschID: 137701


Corr.Victoria - Soles 85-73

Not a big story in a game in Ciudad Victoria where 10th ranked Soles (4-6) were defeated by eighth ranked Correcaminos (5-4) 85-73 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Correcaminos. Soles managed to win fourth quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. American point guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) fired 15 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. The other American import point guard Steve Monreal (180, college: Cal.St.-Monterey) chipped in 17 points. Four Correcaminos players scored in double figures. The former international guard Pedro Meza Rogel (186-85, college: Arizona W. CC) produced 17 points and American power forward Robert Glenn (201-89, college: IUPUI) added 14 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Correcaminos have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Abejas and Huracanes. Loser Soles keep the tenth position with six games lost. Correcaminos will meet higher ranked Halcones Rojos (#3) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Soles will play against Pioneros (#6) in Cancun and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Corr.Victoria: S.Monreal 17+4reb+1ast, M.Allen 15+6reb+7ast, J.Penny 14+7reb, F.Harris 12+3reb+1ast, D.Rose 10+2reb+1ast, R.Selleaze 6+6reb+3ast
Soles: P.Meza Rogel 17+3reb+1ast, R.Glenn 14+3reb+1ast, M.Marriaga 11+3reb, G.Smith 9+7reb, D.Cubillan 7+2reb+1ast, C.Edwards 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 137702


Panteras - Fuerza Regia 78-88

LNBP top team - Fuerza Regia (8-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Panteras (2-8) in Aguascalientes 88-78. It looked good early as Panteras took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Fuerza Regia had a 27-16 second period charge getting the lead and Panteras were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-88. They outrebounded Panteras 48-30 including 33 on the defensive glass. American forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his seven free throws) to lead the effort and the former international swingman Alonso Izaguirre (200-76) supported him with 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Even 29 points by Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (180-83, agency: TSS Management) did not help to save the game for Panteras. The former international guard Karim Malpica (190-78, agency: SportsList Inc.) added 12 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Fuerza Regia have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 8-2 record, which they share with Barreteros. Panteras at the other side keep the twelfth place with eight games lost. Fuerza Regia will play against Lechugueros (#11) in Leon in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Panteras will play on the road against the league's second-placed Barreteros in Zacatecas and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Fuerza Regia: J.Smith 21+12reb+4ast, M.Mitchell 15+3reb+6ast, A.Izaguirre 15+10reb, C.Roberts 12+8reb, A.Cruz 8+3reb+1ast, A.Joseph Tyronzic 6+4reb+3ast
Panteras: R.Melendez 29+2reb, D.Ford 18+6reb+1ast, K.Malpica 12+7reb+9ast, S.Bowie 10+4reb+2ast, I.Lopez 4+4reb, J.Alvarez 3+4reb+1ast
gschID: 137703


Barreteros - Toros 78-74

The game between Top Four teams took place in Zacatecas. Third ranked host Barreteros (8-2) defeated their biggest opponent Toros (7-3) 78-74. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-17. But Toros won second period 20-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Barreteros had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Toros' players. Jamaican forward Mugabe Thomas (193-80, college: Cedarville) scored 19 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Melvin Council (191-82, college: Robert Morris) chipped in 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. At the losing side the former international forward Jesus Lopez (205-83, college: SW Baptist) responded with 14 points and 8 rebounds and American guard Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Barreteros and five Toros players scored in double figures. Barreteros keep a position of league leader, which they share with Fuerza Regia. Toros at the other side dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Barreteros is looking forward to face Panteras (#12) in Aguascalientes in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Toros will play at home against Abejas (#7) in Guanajuato and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Barreteros: M.Thomas 19+5reb+2ast, M.Council 15+5reb+5ast, J.Reaves 14+6reb+2ast, R.Navarro 12+4reb+1ast, S.Cuevas 7+1reb+6ast, R.Loera Almanza 5+4ast
Toros: J.Lopez 14+8reb, D.Pearson 13+4reb, R.Rougeau 13+6reb+1ast, J.Brownlee 11+5reb, W.Pagan 10+4reb+5ast, J.Manuel Esteva 8+3reb+1ast
gschID: 137704


Halc.Xalapa - Lechugueros 109-101

Everything went according to plan when fifth ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (6-3) beat at home 11th ranked Lechugueros (3-6) 109-101 on Sunday. Halcones UV Xalapa have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 6-3 record. Loser Lechugueros keep the eleventh place with six games lost. Halcones UV Xalapa will meet at home Huracanes (#9) in the next round. Lechugueros will play against the league's leader Fuerza Regia in Monterrey and hope to secure a win.
gschID: 137699




Smith number one in LNBP for round 10 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Jeremis Smith (203-F-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Fuerza Regia, receiving a Latinbasket.com LNBP Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Panteras (#12, 2-8) 88-78. It allowed Fuerza Regia to consolidate first place in the Mexican LNBP. Fuerza Regia have a solid 8-2 record. It's Smith's second year at Fuerza Regia and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former Georgia Tech star has very solid stats this year. Smith is in league's top in points (2nd best: 23.0ppg), rebounds (7th best: 8.1rpg) and averages impressive 59.8% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American John Millsap (198-F-82) of Pioneros. Millsap had a very good evening with 29 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Of course he lead Pioneros to another comfortable win outscoring Volcanes (#14, 0-10) 138-55. This victory allowed Pioneros to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-4 record is not bad and everything may still change. Millsap is a newcomer at Pioneros, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 22.0ppg (#4). He also registered 6.7 boards per game. Former The Univ.of Texas - San Antonio star Millsap is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Pioneros' star - American swingman Romel Beck (203-G/F-82, agency: Interperformances). Beck got into 30-points club by scoring 43 points in the last round. He was another key player of Pioneros, helping his team with a 138-55 easy win against Volcanes (#14, 0-10). Pioneros needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 6 victories and 4 lost games. Beck has a great season in Mexico. After only 9 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 26.3ppg (best scorer). He also has FGP: 62.4% and 3PT: 42.9%. Romel Beck has also Mexican passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nestor Colmenares (203-F-87) of Huracanes - 14 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Rammel Allen (210-C-79) of Pioneros - 12 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Karim Malpica (190-G-78) of Panteras - 12 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists
7. Marcus Jackson (202-F-82) of Abejas - 12 points and 13 rebounds
8. Ricardo Melendez (180-PG-83) of Panteras - 29 points and 2 rebounds
9. Gregory Vargas (182-PG-86) of Halc.Rojos - 14 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
10. Alonso Izaguirre (200-G/F-76) of Fuerza Regia - 15 points and 10 rebounds

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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


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  MONTENEGRO   


Buducnost hands 101-65 loss to Zadar - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost - Zadar 101-65

Buducnost exploded in the opening day of the Memorial Mirza Delibasic in Sarajevo. The Montenegrin champion smashed Zadar 101-65 and will meet Bosna ASA BHT in the Finals. On the other side, Zadar will play against Tunisian Etoile du Sahel for third place. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) led the scorers in victory with 19 points. Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) and Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 17 points. Bosnian player who is currently on try-out Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 10 points. In the loosing squad, Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) netted 15 points. Filip Toncinic (212-F-84, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) and Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) stopped to 10 and 8 points respectively. Quarters - 23:19, 19:15, 27:10, 32:21. In the other Semifinals, Bosna ASA BHT outplayed Tunisians 81-75.

Buducnost: Bojan Krstovic 19, Nikola Vucevic 17, Bojan Dubljevic 17, Milan Milosevic 10
Zadar: Ive Ivanov 15, Filip Toncinic 10, Ivan Batur 8

Stevan Milosevic signs in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) will continue his career in Turkey. The Montenegrin center penned a deal with Trabzon. Milosevic heads to Trabzon from Caja Laboral, where he spent this pre-season. The center missed first half of the 2010/11 and in January he joined Russian team Nizhny Novgorod. He had 1.6 ppg and 1 rpg in five games, after what they parted ways. The next month Milosevic signed a deal with Cypriot AEL Limassol. He had 12.8 ppg and 10.3 rpg for them in 11 Playoff Games. They reached Cup and league Finals. Stevan Milosevic spent some time with Partizan Belgrade in 2009/10. He also played for French Dijon that season. In the past, Milosevic played for Koln 99ers, Crvena Zvezda, Arkadia and Buducnost Podgorica.

Buducnost Voli wins Memorial Mirza Delibasic - by Eurobasket News
Bosna ASA BH Telecom - Buducnost Voli 73-98

Buducnost Voli is the winner of Mirza Delibasic Memorial, which was held in Sarajevo this past weekend. The Montenegrin champion met the home team Bosna ASA BHT and handed them 73-98 loss in the Finals. Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) shined for Buducnost with 22 points in this game. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 15, Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) 13 and Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) added 11 points. For the hosts, Nermin Buza (206-F/C-91) delivered 14 points. Eldin Camdzic (195-G-90) and Alin Demic (202-G/F-91) had 13 and 12 pts respectively. Quarters - 16:22, 24:26, 20:24, 13:26. In the first game Buducnsot smashed Zadar 101-65. Bosna ASA BHT was better than Tunisian Etoile du Sahel 81-75. Buduncost will play in Euroleague qualifications on Thursday.

Bosna ASA BH Telecom: Nermin Buza 14, Eldin Camdzic 13, Alin Demic 12
Buducnost Voli: Nikola Vucevic 22, Cedomir Vitkovac 15, Vladimir Mihailovic 13, Bojan Krstovic 11

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  NBA   


Son of George Karl signs in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Former NBA player Coby Karl (6'5''-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boise St.) will continue his career in Italy. The son of famous NBA coach George Karl penned a deal with Fabi Shoes Montegranaro. He will replace Ben Uzoh, who parted ways with the club during the try-out period. Coby Karl is not a new face in Italy as he finished last season there. He joined Armani Jeans Milano in May averaging 4.3 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.3 steals for 8 games. They reached SerieA Semifinals. Coby Karl started last season with Spanish Granada. He had 10.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 1.9 apg for them in 34 games. In 2009/10, Karl appeared four times with the Golden State Warriors. He had 7 ppg, 4 rpg and 3.8 apg. He also played for Idaho Stampede that season. There, Karl exploded with 19.3 ppg, 6 rpg and 4.9 apg for 26 games. In the past, he played fort the Cleveland Cavs, Joventut Badalona, Los Angeles Lakers and LA D-Fenders.

Kobe Bryant gets $6.7 million offer from Virtus Bologna in Italy, where he grew up - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) has been offered a $6.7 million, one-season contract to play for the Italian team Virtus Bologna, appealing to his childhood memories of growing up in the country.

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar spent part of his youth in Italy while his father played there. He speaks Italian, prompting Bologna to hope he might return if there's an NBA lockout.

Virtus Bologna general manager Massimo Faraoni tells The Associated Press he's been on conference calls between Bryant's agent, Rob Pelinka, Bologna president Claudio Sabatini and main sponsor Canadian Solar, which would provide the cash for such a deal.

'I think the fact that he's lived in Italy makes this appealing to him,' Faraoni said.

Virtus has given Bryant four different contract options, stretching from the one-year deal to two-month and one-month options, and a per-game deal that would come out to $739,640 per home game.

All of the offers are pretax and would allow Bryant to return to the Lakers immediately if the lockout ends.

Canadian Solar said its not directly involved in the dealings.

'The contract is being negotiated between Virtus and Kobe Bryant's agent. Canadian Solar is not at the negotiating table,' said a statement from the company provided to The AP.

Turkish club Besiktas and at least one team in China have expressed interest in the 33-year-old Bryant, who has won five NBA championships and been an All-Star 13 times.

Faraoni watched Bryant when he played in Pistoia's youth system in the late 1980s.

'I saw him when he was a kid, and he already had a lot of passion for the game then,' Faraoni said.

Bryant's father, Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant, played in Italy with Rieti, Reggio Calabria, Pistoia and Reggiana from 1984-1991. The elder Bryant now coaches the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA.

Virtus also reached out to Manu Ginobili, who played with Bologna before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2002. Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari rejoined his former Italian club Olimpia Milano on Tuesday.

Other NBA players are committing to play in leagues outside the United States.

Nuggets free agents Wilson Chandler and J.R. Smith plan to play in China, Denver's Ty Lawson will play in Lithuania and New Jersey Nets All-Star Deron Williams signed with Turkish club Besiktas.

Virtus has won 15 Italian league titles but none since 2001, when it also won the Euroleague for the second time.

Virtus has asked fans to send messages supporting the recruitment of Bryant to a 'Bologna for Bryant' email address, which will be published on the team's website.

Bologna opens the Italian league against Roma on Oct. 9. It did not qualify for this season's Euroleague, although the team has big ambitions after signing former Clemson point guard Terrell McIntyre, who led Siena to four consecutive Italian titles before transferring to Malaga in Spain last season.

'I think we already have a competitive squad for Serie A, but Kobe is obviously a great champion and he would make a great addition to the team,' Faraoni said. 'I would put us just behind Milano and Siena.'

The NBA season usually begins in late October but owners and players have failed to agree on a new labor deal. The two sides are at odds over how to divide the league's revenue, a salary cap structure and the length of guaranteed contracts.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Grizzlies' Vasquez to sign with Israeli club - by Eurobasket News
Memphis Grizzlies reserve guard Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) is expected to sign a contract with Israeli club Hapoel Jerusalem this week.

The deal reported will include an opt-out clause that will allow Vasquez to return to the Grizzlies once the NBA lockout is settled.

Vasquez appeared in 70 games with Memphis in his rookie season, averaging 3.6 points and 2.2 assists.

Israeli league begins on October 16. Hapoel Jerusalem will meet Bnei Hasharon at home.

Courtesy of www.wftv.com

Carmelo Anthony: Players united - by Eurobasket News
Even with NBA labor negotiations at a standstill and news coming Friday that the league canceled the start of preseason camps, including 43 preseason games, New York Knicks superstar Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) is sticking by NBPA executive director Billy Hunter. In fact, he is speaking for all his fellow and frustrated colleagues.

'Our main thing as players is that we have to stick together,' said Anthony, who went for 31 points and 17 rebounds in Sunday night's 'Battle for I-95' charity basketball game in Philadelphia at the Palestra, which also featured LeBron James and Chris Paul. 'We communicate almost every day. We talk about the lockout, different situations, different schemes. We talk about the owners, we talk about ourselves, we talk about reality. Hopefully we can get something done soon.'

Anthony said that if the union needs to be decertified to move the negotiation needle in a positive direction, he would be in favor of that. According to an ESPN.com report, NBA agents believe that the owners currently have most, if not all, of the leverage in these talks and that something needs to be done to turn the tide. They believe decertification will do the trick, creating uncertainty and wresting control away from the owners.

'If that's where we've got to take it,' Anthony said, 'that's where we've got to take it. Whatever it takes to get a season.'

In the meantime, expect more charity hoops appearances from Anthony and his Team Melo squad, made up of other NBA ballers who were born or raised in Baltimore, including Donte Greene (Sacramento Kings), Gary Forbes (Denver Nuggets), Gary Neal (San Antonio Spurs) and Josh Selby (Memphis Grizzlies). First it was a game in Washington D.C. on Aug. 30 and then one in Philly on Sunday night. On Saturday, Team Melo will head down south to North Carolina -- this time with special guests Dwyane Wade and Kevin Durant -- where they'll play in Chris Paul's All-Star Charity Game at Winston Salem State University. Anthony said Miami could follow, and after that he'll be open to any offer.

'Whatever city calls us out, hopefully we'll be there,' Anthony said. 'There's no basketball right now, so we want to give (the fans) something to do. ... We have to keep playing and giving fans what they want.'

Anthony said his Team Melo games are also significant because they help him stay in game shape. In fact, he's now down in weight to 230 pounds.

'I feel good mentally and physically,' Anthony said. 'My mindset is I start (training camp) next week.'

Courtesy of ESPN

LeBron, Team Melo fall short in Philly exhibition - by Eurobasket News
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) had the megastar teammates including him and the crowd against him.

September felt be fond of June all over over again, mainly as another Huge Three came up fleeting.

James, Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) and Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) couldn't principal their band back early a dreadful initiation, as Band Philly beat Melos stars of Baltimore 131-122 on Sunday night at the Palestra.

Just be fond of as the Miami band led by James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh was knocked off by Dallas in the NBA Finals, the better names didnt click in time to get the victory loads of probable.

A sold-out crowd including the intention of greeted James including rolling boos as he came on the floor roared in the closing small as ex- Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans used a series of fakes to guide into the lane for a basket including the intention of place it gone at 131-119.

Most of them are, its not just the preeminent players in the league, its the preeminent players in the world. And theyre on the USA band, observably guys get a lot of respect, Philly crucial top Jason Thompson of Sacramento said.

But at the end of the day, its not be fond of theyre playing in a neutral house. Youre playing in Philly and in all type of sports, basketball, football, baseball, whatever business, you know how Philly fans get.

Including the Hakim Warrick, and said there could be extra.

My mindset is Ill initiation next week. My departed is qualified, Ill initiation next week and including the intention ofs everywhere my mindset is at, including the intention ofs everywhere my departed is at, Anthony said. So games be fond of this, its fun. Its charity, but at the constant time, we want to get a upset out of it.

And Warrick said for now, Philadelphia has the title of preeminent band of the summer trail.

Including beating including the intention of band, I mean weve got to be the champs, the Phoenix forward said. Were taking on all challengers, but theyve got to occur owing to Philly. So whoevers next, theyve occur to owing to us.

James had 43 points and 23 rebounds, and Anthony had 31 and 17, but Paul wasnt in top affect in erratic action during this NBA summer of stillness. All three played all 48 minutes.

James and Paul missing lacking language to correspondents.

Ex- Villanova care for Kyle Lowry of the Rockets scored 34 points and Lou Williams of the house of birth 76ers had 31 for Band Philly in what was called the Battle of I-95. Evans refined including 18 points and 18 rebounds, and Warrick superfluous 19 points and 12 boards.

Fourth quarters were the problem for James in the Finals, but this time his band couldnt undo his initiation.

The passionate Philly fans booed James as he came on the floor and even louder during pregame introductions, and they were delighted as the local band threatened to run the All-Stars off the floor in the opening minutes. Including speedy guards Williams, Lowry and Evans repeatedly getting by their defenders, Band Philly raced to a 22-6 principal including the intention of it extended to 35-16 shortly in the first tear up.

James had single four points in the cycle.

Band Melo took the principal in the closing cycle, but Lowry led a in the dead of night flood to influence it out for Philly.

The Melo band is based in Baltimore, but Anthony went outside his city to find James (Ohio) and Paul (North Carolina).

They were originally probable to be inflicted including Kevin Durant, whos starred in a digit of these games this summer early New York to Washington, and they could be inflicted including used the reinforcements. The historic gym on Penns campus wasnt air conditioned, and including single three substitutes, Melos crew struggled to get up and down the floor at era.

But they got best as play went on - though the earlier busy crowd became increasingly cool down as it twisted into a extra half-incite topic until James threw down Pauls lob slip away early just surrounded by crucial top incite to beat the halftime buzzer and cut Phillys principal to 66-58. But Philly, including a full list, permanently was capable to influence far sufficient ahead over again.

In cooperation teams warmed up in shirts reading Basketball Never Stops - but of course it has this summer in the NBA. The league announced Friday including the intention of training camps were postponed and all 43 preseason games scheduled for the week of Oct. 9-15 were agreed up for at sea.

Representatives early the NBA and players friendship hope to come across over again this week but the window is tight, including the union holding a regional assembly Tuesday in Miami and approximately negotiators on in cooperation sides unavailable including including the intention of during the Jewish holiday, building it even tougher to agree to a transact business in time to salvage any of the preseason.

So players are forced to find ways to pause in affect lacking consequential as they will need to be ready for guaranteed.

Lacking the push to out, they would be entering their closing week of the offseason before reporting to camp. James, Anthony and Paul be inflicted including done plenty of roving, conducting clinics and taking part in community benefit projects, but its doubtful how greatly basketball theyve been capable to play.

My main business, we just got to stick collectively, as players were sticking collectively, Anthony said, and in the meantime care for doing stuff be fond of this, care for having basketball games, care for playing, care for giving fans what they want. Its not everything including the intention of they want, because they want a season, but hey, its a upset.

Paul shot single 3 of 12 for six points and struggled to care for up including Phillys speedsters.

At halftime, organizers open Anthony and Warrick a check for $25,000 to build a basketball incite for their cities.

Courtesy of http://sports7news.com

San Diego prosecutors considering allegations vs. Kobe - by Eurobasket News
Next time someone wants to take Kobe Bryant's (6'6''-G-78) picture with a cell phone camera, the Los Angeles Lakers star might want to just smile and say, 'Cheese.'

Bryant isn't out of hot water yet in the case of a man who alleges Bryant grabbed his cell phone and injured him last month after believing his picture was being taken at a San Diego church.

San Diego police have sent their information to the city attorney's office, which will decide whether there's enough evidence to prosecute. At worst, police believe it will be handled as a misdemeanor battery case if it's pursued by prosecutors.

In an email, Gina Coburn, a spokeswoman for the city attorney, said, 'I can confirm that we do have the case and it's currently under review.'

Prosecutors have one year to decide whether to move forward with the case.

Through his attorney, Bryant has previously denied any wrongdoing.

According to reports, Bryant was attending Mass with his wife at St. Therese of Carmel Church in San Diego when he apparently believed another churchgoer was taking his photo with a cell phone camera. The person, identified as Thomas Hagos of San Diego, alleges that Bryant grabbed the phone and returned it after seeing that there were no pictures of him on it.

Hagos went to UC San Diego Medical Center the same day to have his wrist checked and was released, police said.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswest.com

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  NCAA1   


Arizona forward Kevin Parrom shot in New York with no life threatening injuries - by Eurobasket News
Arizona Wildcats forward Kevin Parrom (6'6''-G/F) was shot Saturday morning during a domestic dispute that involved a 'jealous boyfriend or ex-boyfriend,' according to the basketball blog ZagsBlog.com.

Adam Zagoria reported Sunday night that Parrom is in stable condition after being shot in the leg in his home and grazed in his hand. Parrom reportedly told his former AAU coach, Gary Charles, 'I'm good. I'm walking,' according to SNY.tv, who said Charles spoke with Parrom on Sunday.

The Arizona athletic department released the following statement from AD Greg Byrne and UA head coach Sean Miller late Sunday night:

Director of athletics Greg Byrne:
'We are aware that Kevin Parrom went home this weekend to visit his mother, who is in the hospital. While in New York City, he was the victim of a shooting. Rest assured, Kevin''s well being is our primary concern.'

Men's basketball coach Sean Miller:
'I have been in contact with Kevin and his family throughout the weekend and look forward to his return to Tucson and being back in class this week. Our focus is on Kevin's health right now. Once we have more information, we'll be able to address his potential return to team activities.'

Charles told Bruce Pascoe of the Arizona Daily Star, ''I can tell you this: His voice sounded like regular. It wasn't like, 'Oh, coach, my god, I can't believe this.' '

Per Zagoria:
'He was shot one time in the right leg. He was taken to Lincoln Hospital in stable condition.

'He was with a woman and two people came to that location and knocked on the door. They followed him into a bedroom and shot him with a 22-caliber handgun. No one else was in the apartment when he was shot.'

Parrom, who averaged 7.6 points per game and 3.4 rebounds over the course of last season, was visiting his mother in The Bronx, New York. In the days leading up to the weekend, Parrom tweeted, 'Going Home 2mro To Make Sure My Mother Is Staying Strong . . #familyfirst '

A second unnamed source told Zagoria that the dispute was over a woman who was visiting Parrom. The supposed jealous man brought another man, who was carrying a gun. After a wrestling match with Parrom after entering the home, the man shot a bullet that grazed Parrom's hand and then his leg.

Courtesy of www.azdesertswarm.com

Corey Stokes signs pro-deal in Germany, BBC Bayreuth - by Eurobasket News
Corey Stokes (6'5''-G-88) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a one-year deal with BBC Bayreuth. The German squad decided not to keep Kelvin Torbert. Corey Stokes is a product of Villanova University, where he graduated few months ago. He had 14.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.3 apg for his school as a senior (29 games). It was a nice improvement after 9.5 ppg and 4 rpg fro 32 games as a junior. Stokes was named East 3rd Team -11. Corey Stokes participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) this year. He appeared in three games averaging 16 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3 assists. In 2008 with Villanueva, Stokes reached NCAA Sweet 16.

Kansas in for 'bad, terrible' few days - by Eurobasket News
Merv Lindsay, who has developed a close friendship with former Kansas University basketball player Marcus Morris since arriving on campus in June, had a heart-to-heart talk with his brother-figure the other day.

The topic? Bill Selfs two-week Boot Camp.

He said, Man, they are going to kill you ... but you are going to be all right, Lindsay, KUs 6-foot-7 freshman guard from Moreno Valley, Calif., said with a smile.

I am not worried. Im more anxious to see what its all about. Im up for the challenge.

Ready or not, Boot Camp 2011 was set to start at 6 a.m. sharp Monday in the Jayhawks hoops practice facility adjacent to Allen Fieldhouse.

On tap were a series of sprints, defensive slides, backboard touches and more sprints for 50 minutes or so ... with no basketballs in sight.

They (teammates) say its going to be tough, but I think it wont be as tough as they say because I like to run a lot, said KU junior Kevin Young, a 6-8 newcomer from Perris, Calif. Then again, I heard its not all running, a lot of it is mental, too. I think thats good, to see how well we discipline ourselves and each other as teammates.

KU senior Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90) can think of a lot of words to describe Boot Camp. Good is not necessarily one of them.

Boot Camp is bad. Its terrible, but I think its more so the time that its at, Taylor said of the pre-dawn hours. Thats the worst thing. If it was at 3 in the afternoon, itd be a hard workout, but it wouldnt be something we dreaded. Its getting up every morning (Monday-Friday for two weeks), still having to go to class right after, still having to do individual workouts, lifting, still having to go to tutoring and then wake up and do it all over again.

Its pretty bad, pretty bad ... but it cant be any worse than the last three years, he added, looking at the bright side.

Former KU center Sasha Kaun, who survived four Boot Camps, says there's one way to make sure the process is productive.

The biggest thing, Kaun said, is be on time for Boot Camp, be on time for class, be on time for tutoring. If you do that, its pretty easy. The coach is happy, and you dont have to run extra, the Boot Camp is fine and you get everybody better. Once you start being late and tick off the coach, the coach is mad, and he is making it harder on you, and you have to run extra, and now you are mad. It becomes a chain reaction and turns into a disaster.

Easy is not the word former KU guard Xavier Henry would use to descrbe Boot Camp.

I remember guys throwing up, being tired. Theres not too many funny things about Boot Camp, said Henry, a second-year Memphis Grizzlies guard who experienced one Boot Camp. Thats what is good about it. Its so serious. You know youve got to come in and do your work. Just listen and pay attention to coach, dont try to do your own thing, makes sure you can follow directions.

Of course, KUs returnees have an advantage in they know what to expect.

You can never really get used to Boot Camp, but from last year I know its a lot of running, everything is full speed, sophomore guard Niko Roberts said. You dont stop. There are no breaks. It makes you tougher, and thats the point of Boot Camp.

Nobody has attended more Boot Camps than fifth-year senior Conner Teahan.

Just because you have been through it four times doesnt mean its any easier, he said. Theres always some new challenge.

Its a challenge most are up for.

I think a lot of guys get asthma, get sick this time, around Boot Camp time, Taylor said with a smile. Everybodys injuries are a little more than what they really are around Boot Camp time.

Well be ready for it, he added in a serious tone. Its good for us, but I definitely wont miss it next year.


Still sidelined by NCAA

Two Jayhawks Ben McLemore and Jamari Traylor cannot participate in Boot Camp drills, according to NCAA rules. The two have been cleared to be on scholarship and attend class, but cannot compete in official team activities until the NCAA clearinghouse deems them fully eligible.

We knew we were going to have to work through some things. The way we see it (is), they did the work (in high school), but the way the NCAA sees it is, they need more information. Where they are coming from and the focus on academics, thats fair, Self said during Saturdays halftime TV interview at the Legends of the Phog. I dont like it, but its fair. We have to provide some additional stuff for them (clearinghouse officials). I dont know when we will get a final determination. Last year for Josh (Selby) it took until Late Night. I dont think itll be that long this time.

Late Night in the Phog is Oct. 14 in Allen Fieldhouse.


White enjoys KU visit

Andrew White, a 6-6, 210-pound senior small forward from Miller School in Chester, Va., who attended Legends of the Phog, said he will visit West Virginia next weekend, then may visit Texas and/or Louisville.

The biggest memory about Kansas was the fan support, he told jayhawkslant.com. The relationships with all the players and just being in such a big basketball city. The rich tradition gave me a good feeling about why the program is so great.

The No. 56-rated player in the Class of 2012 said KU freshman Naadir Tharpe was his host, but he also spent a lot of time with Thomas Robinson, Elijah Johnson and Taylor.


Twitter

Several participants in Legends in the Phog praised the experience on Twitter.

Mario Chalmers wrote: What a game today!!! Had fun bein back in the Allen Fieldhosue. We have the greatest fans in the world. I luv yall. That shot (to tie game at 111-111) was for yall.

He said he dedicated the shot to his late grandfather.

Paul Pierce, who hit a three to bust a 108-108 tie, wrote: Todays game in Allen Fieldhouse brought back so many memories. I couldnt have scrited the game today any better. Best fans in the world.

Nick Bradford wrote: Could it have ended any better way? That was some Hollywood type ending! Oscar for the scrpt haha!

Brandon Rush wrote: Good time at the fieldhouse today. Time to clean up and head to my grandma birthday party.

Wayne Simien, who had a vicious dunk, wrote: Adrenaline going down from the game, soreness going up. I sure dont miss the feeling.. .. My ears are still ringing from that amazing sellout crowd. THE best venue in ALL of college hoops.

Courtesy of www2.kusports.com



SEC: Texas A&M to join in July 2012 - by Eurobasket News
Texas A&M is set to join Southeastern Conference, the league said Sunday, possibly signaling legal hurdles have been cleared for the Aggies to leave the Big 12.

The SEC announced the move will be effective next July, and said Texas A&M will participate in all sports during the 2012-13 academic year. That gives the SEC 13 members and its first addition since South Carolina and Arkansas in 1992.

The Aggies' defection from the Big 12 had been held up by the possibility of legal action from Baylor and other members. The statement released by the SEC did not mention that situation, and spokesman Charles Bloom said he could not comment.

A Big 12 administrator said neither the SEC nor Texas A&M have asked any of the Big 12 schools to waive their right to sue. The person spoke Sunday night on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.

SEC presidents and chancellors voted in favor of the move on Sept. 6.

'We are excited to begin competition in the nation's premier athletic conference,' Texas A&M President R. Bowen Loftin said in the statement.

It's unclear if the SEC will add a 14th member for next season or go with unbalanced divisions. Rumored possibilities include the Big 12's Missouri and West Virginia of the Big East.

Texas A&M initiated the courtship in July, unhappy with rival Texas' Longhorn Network, and sparked another tumultuous period for the Big 12.

The Aggies, who play Arkansas on Saturday, give the SEC entry into major TV markets such as Houston and Dallas.

'Texas A&M is a nationally prominent institution on and off the field and a great fit for the SEC tradition of excellence - athletically, academically and culturally,' Commissioner Mike Slive said in the statement.

Slive, Loftin and others will hold a news conference Monday evening in College Station, Texas.

Four Big 12 teams - Oklahoma, Texas, Texas Tech and Oklahoma State - had explored moving to the Pac-12, which decided not to expand this year.

Oklahoma President David Boren said the nine remaining schools besides Texas A&M agreed last week to give a six-year grant of their first- and second-tier television rights to the Big 12. That means all revenue from the top television games - shown currently on networks owned by ABC/ESPN and Fox - would continue to go to the Big 12 even if a school bolts to another league.

That deal, however, had not been finalized.

The Big 12 also ousted Commissioner Dan Beebe last week after five years and replaced him with former Big Eight Commissioner Chuck Neinas on an interim basis.

'I am personally saddened to see Texas A&M depart from the Big 12, and wish I had the opportunity to visit the campus to sit down and talk with their administration,' Neinas said in a release. 'We will continue to work diligently in securing the long-term stability of the Big 12.

'Now that the status of Texas A&M has officially been determined, the membership can focus on the desired course for the Conference moving forward. Although no timeline has been established, an expeditious pursuit is anticipated.'

A&M's official departure from the Big 12 was considered the next step needed to determine where this round of conference realignment is headed.

Once that is done, the SEC can decide on a 14th member, if it wants one and the Big 12 can replace the Aggies.

Texas A&M moved to the Big 12 after 82 years in the Southwest Conference and its departure to the SEC will mark the first time the Aggies won't be in a conference with rival Texas and Baylor.

Some are worried A&M's departure will jeopardize the future of the annual football game, currently played on Thanksgiving night, between the Aggies and Texas.

It is one of the oldest rivalries in college football, with the teams first meeting in 1894.

Loftin said he'd like to continue the rivalry no matter what conference the Aggies were in when he announced the school's plans to explore its conference options in August.

However, even if the schools were able to work out a deal to meet for a nonconference football game each season, it would be nearly impossible to guarantee that other sports such as men's and women's basketball and baseball would be able to meet their biggest rivals each season.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


BLNO Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Stian MJOS
  Baerum B.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 24
 1. Mjos, Baerum B.24.0 
 2. Sahlertz, Tromso22.3 
 3. Land, Asker Aliens21.7 
 4. Stien, Asker Aliens21.0 
 5. Kombat, Froya B.20.7 
 6. Hagen, Ammerud18.7 
 7. Okoroafor, Ammerud18.3 
 8. Wallace, Tromso18.0 
 9. Berg, Gimle BBK17.0 
 10. Mahnin, Centrum16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tony LEE
  Asker Aliens
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Lee, Asker Aliens13.7 
 2. Byerson, Tromso9.0 
 3. Bullock, Froya B.8.7 
 4. Hagen, Ammerud8.0 
 5. Oatis, Baerum B.7.7 
 6. Kombat, Froya B.7.3 
 7. Ferranti, Baerum B.7.3 
 8. Wallace, Tromso7.0 
 9. Nwachukwu, Ammerud7.0 
 10. Ouakkaha, Froya6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Hani ISSALHI
  Tromso
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Issalhi, Tromso7.0 
 2. Mjos, Baerum B.5.0 
 3. Midtvedt, Asker A.5.0 
 4. Gabrans, Froya B.4.7 
 5. Byerson, Tromso4.0 
 6. Lee, Asker Aliens4.0 
 7. Stien, Gimle BBK3.7 
 8. Stien, Asker Aliens3.7 
 9. Mjos, Baerum B.3.7 
 10. Mahnin, Centrum3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Hani ISSALHI
  Tromso
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Issalhi, Tromso3.0 
 2. Sahlertz, Tromso2.0 
 3. Mjos, Baerum B.2.0 
 4. Westerlund, Ammeru.2.0 
 5. Mjos, Baerum B.2.0 
 6. Gabrans, Froya B.1.7 
 7. Hagen, Ammerud1.7 
 8. Vangen, Centrum1.3 
 9. Sumskis, Gimle BBK1.3 
 10. Andersen, Langhus1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Donald OATIS
  Baerum B.
  (206-F/C-79)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Oatis, Baerum B.3.7 
 2. Byerson, Tromso1.3 
 3. Nyborg, Centrum1.0 
 4. Nwachukwu, Ammerud1.0 
 5. Lee, Asker Aliens1.0 
 6. Andreassen, Baerum0.7 
 7. Bullock, Froya B.0.7 
 8. Kombat, Froya B.0.3 
 9. Mjos, Baerum B.0.3 
 10. O''Garrow, Langhus0.3 


*****************************************************
  OCEANIA CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


U17 Oceania Championship: Australia sweep the series - by Eurobasket News
Australia claimed three wins in a row against New Zealand in the U17 Oceania Championship. The Aussies thus advanced to the U17 World Championship to take place in 2012. Australia came up with a 71:48 win in the third game of the series.
New Zealand led by as many as four points after ten minutes but Australia turned things around in the second frame. They outscored the Kiwis 20:5 to ensure a comfortable 36:25 halftime lead. Australia dominated in the second half. They recorded a 55:40 advantage with one quarter remaining. The Aussies did not slow down in the fourth term and rallied to the victory at the end. Michael Luxford posted 19 points for Australia. Mirko Djeric and Matthew Jackson contributed 14 points each in the victory. Joshua Howe answered with 13 points for New Zealand. Mark Kelly produced 11 points in defeat.

Game 1: Australia vs. New Zealand 87:51
Game 2: Australia vs. New Zealand 86:48
Game 3: Australia vs. New Zealand 71:48


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


2 Liga Day 1 Group B - by Maciej Paszyn
AZS AGH ALSTOM Krakow - MKS Skierniewice 110:61 (22:17, 29:18, 31:9, 28:17)

Key facts : AZS AGH 22 as. - MKS 7 as. ; AZS AGH 13/25 3 PM-A ( 52 % ) - MKS 2/11 3 PM-A ( 11,1 % )
Top scorers : Grzegorz Dudzik (190-G-84) ( AGH ) 28, Sebastian Salamon (204-C/F-79) ( AGH ) 18, Dariusz Pajak 17 ( AGH )
MVP : Grzegorz Dudzik ( AGH ) 28 pts., 5/8 2 PM-A ( 83,3 % ) ; 6/11 3 PM-A ( 54,5 % ), 3 rb., 26,5 min

WKS Slask Wroclaw - BM Wegiel Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski 71:67 (22:25, 13:13, 12:17, 24:12)

Key facts : Last quater won by Slask 24-12 ; Both teams under 20 % 3 PM-A ( Slansk - 1/15 6,7% ; Stal 4/23 17,4% )
Top scorers : Mariusz Matczak (180-G-86) ( Stal ) 25, Radoslaw Hyzy (203-F-77) ( Slansk ) 19
MVP : Radoslaw Hyzy ( Slansk ) 19 pts., 6/13 FG ( 46,2 % ) 7/11 FT ( 63,6 ) 8 rb. ( 2 off., 6 def. ), 9 rvf., 33 min.

UKS Alba Chorzow - GTK Fluor Britam Gliwice 79:75 (18:21, 20:20, 24:15, 17:19)

Key facts : Alba 9 TO - GTK 15 TO ; Alba 29/39 2 PM-A ( 74,4 % ) - GTK 19/32 2 PM-A 59,4 ( 59,4 % )
Top scorers : Adam Spychala (197-F/C-84) ( Alba ) 16, Hubert Klimecki (194-F-92) ( GTK ) 15
MVP : Daniel Pelka (193-G/F-80) ( Alba ) 12 pts., 4/7 FG ( 57,1 % ) 4/5 FT ( 80 % ), 7 rb. ( 7 def. ), 1 st., 29,5 min

AZS AWF Katowice - KKS Mickiewicz-Romus Katowice 80:53 (22:15, 13:12, 30:17, 15:9)

Key facts : AZS AWF 21/34 2 PM-A ( 61,8 % ) - KKS Mickiewicz-Romus Katowice 18/50 2 PM-A ( 36 % ) ; AZS AWF 18 as. - KKS Mickiewicz-Romus Katowice 9 as.
Top scorers : Mateusz Dziemba (194-G-92) ( AZS AWF ) 18, Grzegorz Zadecki (193-F-83) 17 ( KKS Mickiewicz-Romus Katowice )
MVP : Tomasz Milewski (202-F-78) ( AZS AWF ) 11 pts., 3/6 FG ( 50 % ), 5/6 FT ( 83,3 % ), 8 rb ( 1 off., 7 def., ) 3 as., 4 bl, 6 rvf., 30 min

SSKS Hawajskie Koszule Zory - MCKiS Termo-Rex Jaworzno 54:72 (16:24, 12:15, 18:13, 8:20)

Key facts : MCKiS 3 PM-A 8/19 ( 42,1 % ) - HK Zory 2/18 3 PM-A ( 11,1 % ) ; MCKiS 14 TO - HK Zory 20 TO
Top Scorers : Slawomir Klocek (191-G-84) ( MCKiS ) 21, Jacek Rduch (197-F-81) ( HK Zory ) 16
MVP : Slawomir Klocek ( MCKiS ) 21 pts., 7/16 FG ( 43,8 % ), 6/8 FT ( 75 % ), 8 rb. ( 1 off., 7 def. ), 1 as., 8 rvf., 38,5 min

Doral Zetkama Nysa Klodzko - WKK Obiekty Wroclaw 77:87 (16:14, 18:36, 17:13, 26:24)

Key facts : WKK 16 TO - Doral 23 TO ; 4 WKK players scored more than 15 pts. ( Jan Grzelinski (179-PG-94) 21, Jaroslaw Zyskowski (201-G-92) 20, Jakub Koelner (182-PG-93) 17, Piotr Niedzwiedzki (209-F-93) 16 )
Top scorers : Jan Grzelinski ( WKK ) 21, Dawid Obrzut (201-C-85) ( Doral ) 21
MVP : Jan Grzelinski 21 pts., 8/11 FG ( 72,7 % ), 5/5 FT ( 100 % ), 12 as., 2 rb., 7 rvf., 39,5 min

UMKS Piotrcovia Piotrkow Trybunalski - KS Pogon Prudnik 90:93 (29:13, 16:23, 30:24, 15:33)

Key facts : Pogon won last 6 minutes 26-7 ; Piotrcovia 28 TO., 36 RB. - Pogon 19 TO., 20 RB.
Top scorers : Maciej Lepczynski (193-G/F-82) ( Pogon ) 24, Szymon Kucia (190-G-83) ( Pogon ) 20
MVP : Maciej Lepczynski ( Pogon ) 24 pts., 8/15 FG ( 53,3 % ), 6/8 FT ( 75 % ), 5 as., 5 stl., 2rb., 32 min


Standings - 2 Liga
2Liga Standings
Group A
 1. AZS UWM Olsz. 1-0 
 2. GKK Gorzow 1-0 
 3. Ksiezak 1-0 
 4. Zuraw 1-0 
 5. Zyrardowianka 1-0 
 6. Astoria 0-0 
 7. Open Florentyna 0-0 
 8. Trefl II 0-0 
 9. AZS PP Poznan 0-1 
 10. KK Swiecie 0-1 
 11. Korsarz 0-1 
 12. SMS PZKosz 0-1 
 13. Wilki Morskie 0-1 
Group B
 1. Alba Chorzow 1-0 
 2. AZS AGH Alstom 1-0 
 3. AZS AWF K-ce 1-0 
 4. MCKiS Jaworz. 1-0 
 5. Obiekty 1-0 
 6. Pogon Prudnik 1-0 
 7. Slask II W. 1-0 
 8. BM Wegiel Stal 0-1 
 9. GTK Gliwice 0-1 
 10. HK Zory 0-1 
 11. Mickiewicz 0-1 
 12. MKS Skierniew. 0-1 
 13. Nysa Klodzko 0-1 
 14. Piotrcovia 0-1 
Group C
 1. Limbach 1-0 
 2. Novum Lublin 1-0 
 3. PWiK Piaseczno 1-0 
 4. Staco MNLK 1-0 
 5. Unia Tarnow 1-0 
 6. Wisla AWF Kr. 1-0 
 7. Handlopex AZS 0-0 
 8. WOSSM W-wa 0-0 
 9. AZS II Polit.W-wa 0-1 
 10. Pulaski Warka 0-1 
 11. Rosa II Radom 0-1 
 12. Tur 0-1 
 13. UKS Siemaszka 0-1 
 14. UMKS 0-1 


Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg won Mazovia Cup 2011 - by J W
Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg was only unbeaten team during Mazovia Cup in Legionowo. Siarka won all three games, but needed incredible performance from Josh Miller (169-PG, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: W.Virginia St.) to overcome AZS Politechnika Warszawa on Sunday.

Politechnika was leading through three quarters until Miller started show. He scored 24 of his 36 points in 4th period without missing any field goal leading Siarka to 103:98 victory. Przemyslaw Karnowski (213-C-93) added 17 and Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) was Politechnika's best scorer with 16. Both young Poles are members of 2010 U-17 FIBA World Championships silver medal team. Earlier on Sunday LKS Lodz suprisingly managed to beat AZS Koszalin 89:86 despite opponents' big run in the final minutes. AZS came close after Marshall Strickland (188-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana) missed three pointer at the buzzer.

Full results:
Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg - AZS Koszalin 81:79 (17:24; 21:17; 16:16; 27:22), LaMarshall Corbett 17, Przemyslaw Karnowski 14, Josh Miller 10 - Marshall Strickland 15, Jeremy Montgomery 13, George Reese 11.

AZS Politechnika Warszawa - LKS Lodz 83:77 (19:19, 12:22, 27:15, 25:21), LKS: Kirk Archibeque 18, Krzysztof Sulima 14, Jakub Dluski 10.

Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg - LKS Lodz 91:83 (31:17, 11:24, 32:21, 17:21), Josh Miller 22, Wojciech Barycz 17, LaMarshall Corbett 16 - B.J. Holmes 18, Kirk Archibeque 16, Krzysztof Sulima 13

AZS Koszalin - AZS Politechnika Warszawa 84:74 (24:25, 24:9, 17:22, 19:18), Marshall Strickland 15, Marko Lekic (211-C-85) 14, Igor Milicic 14 - Mateusz Ponitka 19, Leszek Karwowski 12, Piotr Pamula 9.

LKS Lodz - AZS Koszalin 89:86 (28:27, 18:24, 22:9, 21:26), Kirk Archibeque 19, Krzysztof Sulima 18, B.J. Holmes 12 - Jeremy Montgomery 19, Marcin Dutkiewicz 16, Marko Lekic 16.

Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg - AZS Politechnika Warszawa 103:98 (16:23, 22:22, 29:31, 36:22), Josh Miller 36, Przemyslaw Karnowski 17, LaMarshall Corbett 15 - Mateusz Ponitka 16, Michal Nowakowski 14, Lukasz Wilczek 12.


PBG Basket land Jakub Parzenski - by Eurobasket News
PBG Basket bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with young Polish talent Jakub Parzenski (209-F/C-91). The centre spent the last season in Italy. Jakub Parzenski played for Virtus Bologna. His stats read 1.0 point per game in Seria A. The centre also played for Virtus Bologna junior team. He is the product of Slask Wroclaw basketball school. Parzinski was the member of U18 and U20 Polish National Teams. He participated at U20 European Championship this year. Jakub Parzenski posted 10.3 points, 6.6 boards and 1.2 blocks per game in Sarajevo.


*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   


Ginasio tab Francisco Destino and George Ehiagwina - by Eurobasket News
Ginasio strengthened their roster. They landed two players. The team has agreed on terms of contract with Francisco Destino (190-G/F-89) and George Ehiagwina (206-F-89).
Francisco Destino spent the previous season in Academica de Coimbra. He tallied 2.7 points per game. The forward also had stints with Barreirense before. Eurobasket.com named Francisco Destino into Portuguese League All-Newcomers Team in 2008.
George Ehiagwina played for CD Povoa in the previous season. The forward posted 9.2 points, 8.9 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game in Proliga. George Ehiagwina was named into Eurobasket.com Portuguese Proliga All-Newcomers Team in 2010. The forward was the member of Nigerian U18 National Team. He participated at the U19 World Championship in Novi Sad in Serbia.


Dillion Sneed joins Ass. Academica de Coimbra - by Eurobasket Center
Ass. Academica de Coimbra agreed terms with 27-year old American center Dillion Sneed (203-C-113kg-84, college: E.Tenn.St.). Sneed played most recently at Ryukyu Golden Kings Okinawa (Japan). While playing 26 games for Okinawa GK last season he recorded 7.8ppg and 6.8rpg. He helped them to win the championship title. Sneed is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Dominican Rep., France, Holland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Qatar and Uruguay. Sneed graduated East Tennessee State University in 2006 and it will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


Draw completed for 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship - by Maarouf Mawloud
Defending champions China were drawn with fellow East Asian team Chinese Taipei, Middle Asias India and SEABAs Malaysia in Group A for the Preliminary Round of the 2nd FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Nha Trang City in Vietnam from Oct 18-28, 2011.

The draw was conducted at the Media Conference Room at the Wuhan Sports Center on Sunday, the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship.

Group B involves Korea, who lost to China in the final of the inaugural FIBA Asia U16 Championship at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) two years ago, along with two WABA teams Iraq and Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Iran, the bronze medalists from Johor Bahru lead the fray in Group C also comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With only 15 teams in fray, Group D will see only three teams and all-SEABA affair Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

It is a great significance that we are conducting this draw for the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship on the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship, said FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani who presided over the draw proceedings.

The 26th FIBA Asia Championship will decide the champion team of FIBA Asia, while the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship will throw up the stars for the future, he said.

Group A: China,India,Malysia,Chinese Taipei
Group B: Korea, Iraq ,Uzbakestan and Lebanon
Group C: Iran,Qatar,Saudi Arabia and Japan
Group D: Philipines,Indonesia and Vietnam .

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


Eryk Watson signs with Dinamo - by Eurobasket News
Eryk Watson (190-G, college: Maryville, TN) signs with Dinamo for the upcoming season. The American Guard will debut in Europe.
In 2007-2008 he started for Maryville (TN) (NCAA3) and in 27 games averaged 12.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 84.1%. In 2008-2009 for Maryville (TN) (NCAA3) he improved to high 19.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 82.8%. In 2009-2010 after 28 games his stats read 17.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 82.2%. The last season with the team he became the 7th top-scorer of the league with 24.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PTNCAA3-8 (47.2%), FT: 80.7%.
The season 2011-2012 started for U.M.F. Tindastoll (Iceland-Express League), only pre-season. Then try-out at Levharti Chomutov (Czech Rep.-NBL).
Last year he was awarded D3hoops.com's All-America Awards 2nd Team -11.


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


Zavoruev is close to back to Saint-Petersburg - by Eurobasket
Vasili Zavoruev (197-G-87, agency: RIZO) is close to sign the new contract with Spartak St.Petersburg after spending last month on the try-out. The sharpshooter guard showed well during the pre-season camp in italian Bormio Camp and impressed the new head coach of Saint-Petersburg team Jure Zdovc. Zavoruev spent in Saint-Petersburg 2008-2010 years while played last season in Dynamo Moscow who went bankrupt on summer 2011.
Last year he was the third leading scorer of Dynamo Moscow Enterprise in Fiba Eurochallenge (13.5ppp, 4.5rpg, 48% 3PCT).


Nizhny Novgorod and Unics enjoy victories - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod and Unics celebrated pre-season victories.
Nizhny Novogorod overcame Hemofarm 89:85 in Serbia. Ernest Bremer (195-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) stepped up with 23 points to lead the charge. The hosts looked better in the opening frame. They register a 24:19 lead at the first break. Hemofarm cleared off to a 14-point halftime lead. Nizhny Novgorod cut the deficit in the third term. They got within ten points at the final intermission. The Russian team erupted for 30 points in the fourth term and sneaked past Hemofarm to claim a tough victory. Semen Antonov (202-F-89) posted 13 points, while Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) contributed 11 points in the winning effort. Boris Savovic (206-F-87) responded with 25 points for Hemofarm. Marko Sutalo (194-G-83, agency: BeoExcell) had 20 points in the loss.
Unics recorded back-to-back victories over Ruskon-Mordovia. Unics posted an 86:50 win in the first game. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) delivered 20 points, while Zakhar Pashutin (196-G-74) was helpful with 14 points for the winners.
Next game was once again a one-way traffic as Unics came up with a 95:59 win. Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) orchestrated the victory with 23 points. Savrasenko contributed 18 points and 10 boards for the Kazan team.


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  SAUDI ARABIA   


Draw completed for 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship - by Maarouf Mawloud
Defending champions China were drawn with fellow East Asian team Chinese Taipei, Middle Asias India and SEABAs Malaysia in Group A for the Preliminary Round of the 2nd FIBA Asia Championship to be held in Nha Trang City in Vietnam from Oct 18-28, 2011.

The draw was conducted at the Media Conference Room at the Wuhan Sports Center on Sunday, the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship.

Group B involves Korea, who lost to China in the final of the inaugural FIBA Asia U16 Championship at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) two years ago, along with two WABA teams Iraq and Lebanon and Uzbekistan.

Iran, the bronze medalists from Johor Bahru lead the fray in Group C also comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With only 15 teams in fray, Group D will see only three teams and all-SEABA affair Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

It is a great significance that we are conducting this draw for the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship on the final day of the 26th FIBA Asia Championship, said FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani who presided over the draw proceedings.

The 26th FIBA Asia Championship will decide the champion team of FIBA Asia, while the 2nd FIBA Asia U16 Championship will throw up the stars for the future, he said.

Group A: China,India,Malysia,Chinese Taipei
Group B: Korea, Iraq ,Uzbakestan and Lebanon
Group C: Iran,Qatar,Saudi Arabia and Japan
Group D: Philipines,Indonesia and Vietnam .

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  SERBIA   


Hemofarm losses to Niznhy Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Hemofarm - Niznhy Novgorod 85-89

Hemofarm and Niznhy Novgorod played a friendly game this past weekend. The Russian team was slightly better celebrating 85-89 victory. Last quarter was the crucial one in this game and Nizhny won it 16-30. Before that, Hemfoarm made 24-19 in the first ten minutes and they jumped to plus 14 until the halftime. However, totally difference picture was seen on the court after the breather. Nizhny took control on Hemofarm and cut the margin to 9 pts before the last quarter, when they smashed Serbian team and it was enough for the victory. Ernest Bremer (195-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) led Nizhny with 23 points. Semen Antonov (202-F-89) and Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) helped them with 13 and 11 points respectively. In defeat, Boris Savovic (206-F-87) shined with 25 points. Marko Sutalo (194-G-83, agency: BeoExcell) and Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) added 20 and 18 points respectively.

Hemofarm: Boris Savovic 25, Marko Sutalo 20, Mladen Jeremic 18
Niznhy Novgorod: Ernest Bremer 23, Semen Antonov 13, Ivan Paunic 11

Ivan Miceta signs in Bosnia - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Miceta (205-C/F-81, agency: 011 Sports) will continue his career in Bosnia. The Serbian power forward/center signed a deal with Varda HE Visegrad. Miceta started last season with Romanian team Timisoara. He appeared in 10 Division A games averaging 8.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists. During the season Miceta moved to Serbian team Superfund and later his signed on Cyprus with APOEL Nicosia. In 2009/10 season Ivan Miceta played for Vojvodina Srbijagas. He had 11.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 26 games in Serbian league. A year before that he played for Napredak Krusevac. Miceta also has experience from Zdravlje, Mornar and Tina Time Bar. He grew up with Beovuk.

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  SLOVENIA   


Cibona wins in Lasko - by Eurobasket News
Zlatorog Lasko - Cibona 89-95

Zlatorog Lasko and Cibona played a friendly games this past weekend. Zlatorog was the host, but it was the former Croatian champion who celebrated 89-95 victory in this meeting. Jure Lalic (212-C-86) paced visitors to victory with 18 points. Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Kentucky) followed him with 17 points, while Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) and Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) added 11 points each. Grega Mali (197-G-84) and Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports) shined for the hosts with 17 points each. Luka Lapornik (195-G-88) stopped to 12 pts. Cibona played great when it mattered most to take this victory. They entered to the last quarter with minus one, but managed to make 20-27 for the final 89-95 victory. Quarters - 24:26; 19:21; 26:21; 20:27. Both teams will play more friendlies this pre-season.

Zlatorog Lasko: Grega Mali 17, Vladimir Panic 17, Luka Lapornik 12
Cibona: Jure Lalic 18, Antwain Barbour 17, Damjan Rudez 11, Brian Chase 11

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  SPAIN   


Barcelona and Joventut to meet in the Finals of 'Lliga Catalana' - by Eurobasket News
Barcelona and Joventut advanced to the Finals of 'Lliga Catalana'.
In the Semis, Barcelona cruised past Lleida 81-64. Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) stepped up for the reigning Spanish champions with 18 points. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) and Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) helped with 14 and 13 points respectively. In defeat, Charles Ramsdell (208-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Tulsa) shined with 19 points. Quarters: 22-12, 19-18, 18-20, 22-14.
In other Semifinals, Joventut grabbed 87-90 win against Manresa. It was an OT win for Joventut, who got 16 points from David Jelinek (194-G-90). Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) scored 13 and Pooh Jeter (179-PG-83, college: Portland) added 12 pts in this victory. For Manresa, Micah Downs (203-G-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) responded with 20 points. Quarters: 19-16, 24-13, 13-23, 21-25, 10-13 OT. Manresa is the host of 'Lliga Catalana'. The Final game is scheduled for today.

Sunday: Wins for Murcia, Zaragoza, Unicaja and Alicante - by Eurobasket News
More friendly games were played on Sunday.
Murcia celebrated 81-70 win against Fuenlabrada. Andres Miso (199-G-83) paced Murcia to victory scoring 20 points. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) delivered 22 points in loss.
CAI Zaragoza grabbed 79-78 thriller win against Bilbao thanks triple by Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) in the finish. He ended with 13 points in total. On the other side, Bilbao got 14 points from Alex Mumbru (202-F-79), Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) and Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76).
Unicaja smashed Cajasol 91-59 in another friendly. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) shined with 22 points for the winners. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) scored 10 points for Cajasol.
In the last game of the day, Alicante handed 78-67 loss to Valencia. Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke), Jeremy Hazell (195-G-86, college: Seton Hall) and Pedro Llompart (190-G-82) scored 14 points each in victory. Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) also had 14 points, but in loss.

Galil Gilboa clinch third place at Domreiter Cup - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa - Gran Canaria 79:72

Galil Gilboa finished their Domreiter Cup campaign with victory. They defeated Gran Canaria to claim the third position in Germany. Courtney Fells (198-F/G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners.
Galil Gilboa posted a 24:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Gran Canaria surged ahead midway through the second term. The Spanish team secured a narrow 42:41 halftime lead. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third term. Galil Gilboa managed to pull away with a 59:58 advantage at the final intermission. The Israeli team boosted the margin early in the fourth quarter. They piled up an 8-point buffer and hung on to snatch victory at the end. Romeo Travis (201-F-84, college: Akron) posted 13 points, while Jan Martin (203-F/C-84, agency: Court Side) contributed 12 points in the win. Roman Martinez (201-F-88, college: N.Mexico) answered with 22 points for Gran Canaria. Juan Palacios (204-F/C-85) and Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) accounted for 12 points each in the loss.

Galil Gilboa: Courtney Fells 17, Romeo Travis 13, Jan Martin 12
Gran Canaria: Roman Martinez 22, Juan Palacios 12, Marquez Haynes 12


Caja Laboral beats Real Madrid in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Caja Laboral - Real Madrid 75-68

Caja Laboral and Real Madrid met in a friendly game yesterday. Caja Laboral was the host and celebrated 75-68 victory in this meeting. Fernando San Emeterio (198-F/G-84) was the leading scorer in victory with 18 points. Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 16 and at the same time was the last one with double-digits. NBAer Kevin Seraphin (205-F/C-89) and Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairb.) helped with 8 points each. On the other side, Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) was better than the others with 11 points. Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) stopped to 10 points each. Real Madrid made minimum lead in the first ten minutes 19-20 and Caja Laboral replied with 13-9 in the second quarter. Later the home squad jumped to 52-39 and Real Madrid was in trouble. However, Nikola Mirotic and his teammates didnt give up and they came to 57-51. During the last quarter Real cut the margin to 61-60, but Mirza Teletovic responded for Caja Laboral and stopped Real on its way. Both teams will play more friendlies this pre-season.

Caja Laboral: Heurtel (4), Brad Oleson (8), Fernando San Emeterio (18), Mirza Teletovic (16), Milko Bjelica (6), Nemanja Bjelica (6), Ribas (4), Kevin Seraphin (8), Prigioni (5), Musli
Real Madrid: Rodriguez (6), Rudy (7), Suarez (2), Nikola Mirotic (11), Begic (7), Novica Velickovic (10), Tomic (2), Pocius (2), Reyes (4), Carroll (7), Sergio Llull (10)

Cajasol close to sign Milenko Tepic - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol is close to sign Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) for the next season. According to various sources, the deal is already agreed and the player is expected to sign it very soon. Tepic spent last two seasons with Panathinaikos Athens. He helped them win the Euroleague title with 2.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 17 games. The Greens also defended title in Greece. There, Tepic collected 7.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2 apg in 34 games. Tepic won the Greek title with PAO also in 2009/10. From 2006 to 2009, Milenko Tepic was a member of Partizan Belgrade. He won many trophies with them, including three Adriatic league and Serbian league titles. In the past, Tepic played for Vojvodina Srbijagas. Milenko Tepic is active member of the Serbian NT since 2007. At the EuroBasket in Lithuania he had 8.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.9 apg for 8 games.

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold
Points Per Game
 James FELDEINE
  Breogan
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 32
 1. Feldeine, Breogan32.0 
 2. Bivia, Mallorca27.0 
 3. Ordin, Girona24.0 
 4. DeVries, Melilla23.0 
 5. Mitchell, CB Tarra.22.0 
 6. Pino, Girona21.0 
 7. Phillip, Burgos20.0 
 8. Perez, Menorca20.0 
 9. Montanana, Huesca20.0 
 10. Antelo, Caceres19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jesus FERNANDEZ
  Granada
  (204-C-75)
  Avg: 14
 1. Fernandez, Granada14.0 
 2. Sikma, La Palma14.0 
 3. Antelo, Caceres13.0 
 4. Morentin, Menorca12.0 
 5. Schreiber, CB Tarr.12.0 
 6. Kuzmin, Clinicas.11.0 
 7. Mortellaro, Leon11.0 
 8. Alzamora, Lleida11.0 
 9. McNeil, Huesca11.0 
 10. Lawal, Clavijo11.0 
Assists Per Game
 Juan RIERA
  Melilla
  (188-PG-79)
  Avg: 8
 1. Riera, Melilla8.0 
 2. Arco, Melilla7.0 
 3. Witt, Clavijo6.0 
 4. Bravo, Palencia6.0 
 5. DeVries, Melilla5.0 
 6. Rodriguez, Caceres5.0 
 7. Arevalo, Clavijo5.0 
 8. Mena, Palencia5.0 
 9. Feldeine, Breogan5.0 
 10. Santana, CB Tarra.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Sergio ALONSO
  Mallorca
  (180-PG-80)
  Avg: 6
 1. Alonso, Mallorca6.0 
 2. Guerra, Granada6.0 
 3. Toledo, Burgos4.0 
 4. Montanana, Huesca4.0 
 5. Bonds, Clavijo3.0 
 6. Sabat, Tenerife3.0 
 7. Bernabe, Leon3.0 
 8. Sanz, Navarra3.0 
 9. Fernandez, CB Tarr.3.0 
 10. Arco, Melilla3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Shaun GREEN
  Mallorca
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Green, Mallorca3.0 
 2. Kuzmin, Clinicas.3.0 
 3. Freimanis, Girona2.0 
 4. Schreiber, CB Tarr.2.0 
 5. Coleman, Girona2.0 
 6. Lawal, Clavijo2.0 
 7. Antelo, Caceres2.0 
 8. Lorenzo, Clinic.1.0 
 9. Mortellaro, Leon1.0 
 10. Amador, Mallorca1.0 


Caja Laboral bring in Joey Dorsey - by Eurobasket News
Joey Dorsey (206-C/F-83, college: Memphis) is heading to Spain. The 27-year-old centre has agreed on terms of contract with Caja Laboral. The deal is meant for one season. Joey Dorsey spent the last season in the NBA. He played for the Toronto Raptors. His stats read 3.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per appearance. Previously Joey Dorsey had stints with the Houston Rockets, Sacramento Kings and D-Leagues Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Joey Dorsey was the member of the USA National Team back in 2007. He participated at the PanAmerican Games. The centre posted 3.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in Rio de Janeiro.


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  TUNISIA   


Zadar beats Etoile du Sahel for third place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Zadar and Tunisian team Etoile du Sahel met on Sunday in the battle for third place at the Mirza Delibasic Memorial in Sarajevo. The Croatian squad was better celebrating 85-70 victory. Zadar took control on Zadar from the very beginning. They made 38-24 lead until the halftime and were looking comfortable. Nothing has changed after the breather as Tunisians were not able to reply and Zadar jumped to plus 20. It was 53-33 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Zadar slowed down after that and Etoile du Sahel cut the margin to 15 points until the end. Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) and Filip Toncinic (212-F-84, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) netted 17 points each for the winners. Ivan Batur (203-G/F-91) helped with 15 pts. In Etoile du Sahel, Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) shined with 27 points.
In the Semifinals, Zadar faced with huge 65-101 loss against Buducnost Podgorica. Host Bosna ASA BHT outplayed Tunisians 81-75.

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  TURKEY   


Trabzon signs Jonathan Gibson and Stevan Milosevic - by Eurobasket News
Trabzon signed deals with Jonathan Gibson (182-PG-87, college: N.Mexico St.) and Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for the upcoming season.
Point guard Jonathan Gibson started 2010/11 in Turkey as a member of Oyak Renault. He appeared 11 times for them in TBL averaging 18.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2 steals. They parted ways in December. In January, Gibson joined Ironi Ashkelon, where he had 7.3 ppg and 1.3 apg for 16 games. Gibson graduated at the New Mexico State University a year ago.
Center Stevan Milosevic finished last season with Cypriot AEL Limassol. He had 12.8 ppg and 10.3 rpg for 11 Playoff games. Before AEL, he spent one month with Russian Nizhny Novgorod. There he had 1.6 ppg and 1 rpg for 5 games. Milosevic played for Caja Laboral this pre-season.

Kobe Bryant visited Efes Anadolu - by Orhan Suer
Having visited Turkish Football Club Galatasaray yesterday, World Basketball superstar Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) did a work out with Anadolu Efes Istanbul Junior Team today.
Anadolu Efes Istanbul Junior Team players got the chance with playing against NBA All-Star Kobe Bryant The Black Mamba. Together with Junior Team coaches Kobe passed his personal experiences to the youngsters. Kobe gave his close attention and played one on one in offense and defense to improve Turkish young players skills.
Anadolu Efes Istanbul Junior Team players were very happy and lucky to train with one of the best players in basketball history.


SPOR TOTO Turkish Cup is beginning. - by Baha Kurtulus
In order to determine the groups attending to quarter finals, the games will take place in four different cities and groups in 6-8th October and 9-11th October 2011.
Groups, cities and teams schedule is;

6th October 2011
TOFAS - Olin Edirne ( Group B - Erzurum )
Mersin BSB - Fenerbahce Ulker ( Group B - Erzurum )

Erdemir- Banvit Kirmizi ( Group D - Samsun )
Antalya BSB - Galatasaray ( Group D - Samsun )

7th October 2011
Fenerbahce Ulker - TOFAS ( Group B - Erzurum )
Olin Edirne - Mersin BSB ( Group B - Erzurum )

Galatasaray - Erdemir ( Group D - Samsun )
Banvit Kirmizi - Antalya BSB ( Group D - Samsun )

8th October 2011
TOFAS - Mersin BSB ( Group B - Erzurum )
Fenerbahce Ulker - Olin Edirne ( Group B - Erzurum )

Erdemir - Antalya BSB ( Group D - Samsun )
Galatasaray - Banvit Kirmizi ( Group D - Samsun )

9th October 2011
Hacettepe - Banvit ( Group A - Eskisehir )
Besiktas - Trabzonspor ( Group A - Eskisehir )

Pinar Karsiyaka - Aliaga Petkim ( Group C - Izmir )
Turk Telekom - Anadolu Efes ( Group C - Izmir )

10th October 2011
Trabzonspor- Hacettepe ( Group A - Eskisehir )
Banvit - Besiktas ( Group A - Eskisehir )

Anadolu Efes - Pinar Karsiyaka ( Group C - Izmir )
Aliaga Petkim - Turk Telekom ( Group C - Izmir )

11th October 2011
Hacettepe - Besiktas ( Group A - Eskisehir )
Trabzonspor - Banvit ( Group A - Eskisehir )

Pinar Karsiyaka - Turk Telekom ( Group C - Izmir )
Anadolu Efes - Aliaga Petkim ( Group C - Izmir )


CSKA clinch Gomelsky Cup title at the expense of Ulker - by Pervin Elgin
Fenerbahce Ulker did not succeed in winning the Gomelsky Cup in Moscow. Hosts CSKA Moscow beat the Istanbul team 73-57.

Fenerbahce reached the title game by narrowly defeating Panatinaikos, 88-85. Ulkers Bojan Bogdanovic scored 22 in a game that had a superior Fenerbahce leading 47-38 at halftime. Panatinaikos made a strong come back in the third period and equalized with less than a minute on the clock in the fourth. A three point score by Curtis Jerrell secured a spot in the title game for Fener.

In that title game CSKA overpowered Fenerbahce. The Russians had a comfortable 40-29 lead at halftime, and stayed in control in the second half. Darjus Lavrinovic scored 11 points for Ulker, but that wasnt enough by far to beat the Moscow hosts, who conquered the cup with a clear 73-57 victory.


Galatasaray too much for Erdemir - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - Erdemir 73-59

Galatasaray and Erdemir met in a friendly game this past weekend. Galatasaray was the host and celebrated 73-59 victory in this meeting. Lithuanian star Darius Songaila (205-C/F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest) was the leading scorer in Galata with 17 points. Preston Shumpert (198-G/F-79, college: Syracuse) and Sertac Sanli (212-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 11 points each. Last player with double-digits in Galata was Slovenian point guard Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) with 10 points. On the other side, Erdemir had just one player with more than ten pts. It was Soner Senturk (194-G-86, agency: 1x1 Sports), who scored 12 points. Mutlu Akpinar (203-C/F-83) stopped to 9. Galatasaray had 38-33 at the halftime and later increased its lead. Galatasaray will play their first game in Euroleague Qualifications on Friday. Their rival will be PAOK.

Galatasaray: Josh Shipp 3, Jaka Lakovic 10, Jamon 2, Ender Arslan 3, Preston Shumpert 11, Caner Topaloglu 1, Furkan Aldemir 9, Tutku Aick, Evren Buker 3, Cevher Ozer 3, Haluk Yildirim, Sertac Sanli 11, Darius Songaila 17
Erdemir: Ray Wesson 7, Emre Ekim 2, Antwane Robinson 6, Mutlu Akpinar 9, Altan Erol 4, Melih Yildiz 4, Henderson 6, Caner Ercan 5, Eren Beyaz 4, Soner Senturk 12

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  UKRAINE   


BC Odessa win home pre-season tournament - by Eurobasket News
BC Odessa - Mykolaiv 87:82

BC Odessa clinched the home pre-season tournament title. They overcame Mykolaiv to end the tourney with two wins in as many games. Willie Deane (186-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) stepped up with 18 points, 8 assists and 7 rebounds to lead the effort. Mykolaiv suffered the second straight loss.
BC Odessa grabbed a 23:21 lead after ten minutes of action. They stretched the margin in the second frame. The hosts piled up an 8-point halftime lead 48:40. Mykolaiv tried to change the complexion of the game in the third term. They unloaded 23 points to get within six points at the final break. Mykolaiv kept the pressure on the home team but BC Odessa withheld the challenge and escaped with a tough win at the end. Shawn King (208-C-82, college: ORU) posted 17 points and 9 rebounds for BC Odessa. Justin Love (188-G-78, college: St.Louis) added 16 points in the win. Jerome Coleman (185-G-81, college: Rutgers) answered with 21 points for Mykolaiv. Rodney Green (196-F/G-88, college: La Salle) delivered 20 points in the loss.

BC Odessa: Willie Deane 18, Shawn King 17, Justin Love 16
Mykolaiv: Jerome Coleman 21, Rodney Green 20


Khimik and Ferro-ZNTU win, Budivelnyk lose in preparation for the season - by Eurobasket News
Khimik defeated Kryvbasbasket at home court in a friendly game. Reyshawn Terry (203-F-84, college: N.Carolina) scored 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the winners to an 84:64 win. Kryvbasbasket got to the better start. They secured a 24:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Khimik trimmed the deficit to just two points at the interval 43:45. But the third term turned things around for the home team. They outscored Kryvbasbasket 25:10 to ensure a comfortable 13-point lead with one quarter remaining. The home team limited Kryvbasbasket to just 9 points in the fourth term and rallied to a confident win at the end. Aaron McGhee (203-F/C-79, college: Oklahoma) contributed 16 points, while Denis Ikovlev (201-F-86, agency: RIZO, college: Nevada) chipped in 15 points and pulled down 9 rebounds in the win. Alvin Snow (188-G-81, college: E.Washington) responded with 16 points for Kryvbasbasket. Ilya Korotkov (197-F-85) delivered 10 points in the losing effort.
In the meantime Budivelnyk surrendered against Dijon in d'Alfortville Tournament Final 71:75. Rolandas Alijevas (192-G-85) and Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) came up with 12 points each for Budivelnyk. Jack McClinton (185-G-85, college: Miami, FL) added 11 points in the losing case.
Ferro-ZNTU avenged the previous loss to DniproAzot clinching a 98:73 victory. Jeremy Chappell (191-G-87, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Robert Morris) delivered 21 points to lead the charge. Kondrusevich provided 19 points, while Mike Davis (205-F-88, college: Illinois) contributed 18 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. DniproAzot answered with 18 points and 9 boards from Sergiy Gorbenko (200-F-85).


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Derby Trailblazers easy won PAWS London Capital - by George Manousidis
Derby Trailblazers 96 (21, 46, 83)}EBL Mens Division Trophy
PAWS London Capital 45 (06, 17, 34) }Pool 2

Derby Trailblazers got their Trophy Pool matches off to a spectacular start, with a crushing 96-45 home win over PAWS London Capital. The opening exchanges of the game were tight, with five lead changes ensuing before Rishi Kakad (188-G, college: Hawaii-Pacific) converted his first and the Trailblazers second three-pointer of the night, to give his side an 8-6 advantage.
That was the start of 16-0 run which saw the Blazers leading 21-6 by the end of the first quarter. Superb long range shooting was once again a dominant factor in Derbys early success, with Kakad converting three triples and Martyn Gayle closing the period with a pair of back to back strikes from downtown.
The second quarter began with a pair of lay-ups from Matt Ward-Hibbert, another triple from Gayle and a deuce from Mark Woodhouse. However, the visitors responded with seven straight points, prompting a Derby time out. This had the desired effect, as Capital were held scoreless over the next six minutes. Slick ball movement and multiple steals helped the Trailblazers to a 16-0 burst, with Gayle adding another two triples and Attewell adding five points to his haul.
A clash of heads between Ward-Hibbert and Londons Jamel Felix just before the break left the latter player requiring a trip to hospital, where he was checked over after suffering symptoms of concussion.
With Derby 46-17 ahead at the interval, the game was already effectively over, but their domination allowed Coach Maudsley to try out a number of different combinations. Deep into the third quarter, Aaran Maher joined in with the long range onslaught, nailing a pair of three-pointers either side of a layup from Rema Lascelles, who produced a stellar performance.
In just under twenty-seven minutes, he contributed nine points, seven rebounds and nine assists, allowing veteran point guard Stedroy Baker to remain on the side-lines to concentrate on his new role of assistant coach.
Among the other highlights were double-doubles of 12 points and as many rebounds for Woodhouse and 11 points & 10 rebounds for Attewell, who continues to delay his retirement while the club strive to add additional height to their roster.

By the end of the night, Derby had converted 16 of 33 three-point attempts, with Gayle producing figures of 6/10, Kakad 7/13 and Maher 2/4. It was in stark contrast to the visitors who ended the night with a paltry 7 from 25. They also out-rebounded the Londoners by a margin of 49-24.
Trailblazers Head Coach Jamie Maudsley was delighted to open the Trophy campaign with such a sizeable and morale boosting victory:
I was pleased with the defensive intensity we showed. We were also able to try a variety of different combinations as the game progressed, which is always useful in a competitive situation. I thought we moved the ball against their zone, helped by some very unselfish performances from everyone on our team.
We dominated the rebounding and only gave up three offensive boards over the course of the game which is a great achievement for this group considering our lack of height.
We also had another excellent shooting performance, with four players shooting at 50% or higher from three point range and as team overall, we shot at just under 50% for the game. It was encouraging to see our younger players competing well against established division one players and I thought they were ably supported by the Vets.
My coaching team also did a great job. [Steve] Baxter, [Stedroy] Baker and [Matt] Shaw were outstanding, continually prompting me and advising the players as they came off the floor. I dont think its fair to single out individual players, because everyone contributed and we had an excellent efficiency rating as a team with six players rated at 15 or more.
Finally, we were pleased to note that [Jamel] Felix seems to be ok. We understand he was released from hospital later on Saturday night, so hopefully there will be no lasting effects from the clash of heads, he said.

Derby:Kakad 25, Gayle 18, Woodhouse 12, Attewell 11, Guddemi 9, Lascelles 9, Maher 6, Ward-Hibbert 6, McGaffin 0, Baker DNP.
Capital:Cascoe 23, Olorugun 7, Jivens 6, Offiah 6, Baker 3, Fagbenle 0, Felix 0, Nyeko 0, Nsiah DNP.

There were mixed results for the clubs junior teams. The under 16 boys were beaten 62-76 at home to Northampton Nets Phoenix, while the under 15s beat Sheffield Saints 72-90.


Pre-Season Focus : One Health SHarks Sheffield - by Paul Nilsen
After a season which saw them win the BBL Cup, reach the play-off final and challenge for the league title until the final week of the campaign, One Health Sharks Sheffield coach Atiba Lyons (198-F-82, college: Pace) has again put together a strong roster writes Dave Ryan.



This will be Lyons' seventh season in a Sharks' vest having spent the last three seasons as player-coach.



There's little doubt that the biggest Sharks' headline of the summer was the re-signing of guard Nate Reinking. The 37-year-old has been a lynchpin for the Great Britain national team in the last six years, helping them to promotion from Division B and two EuroBasket finals, and looks set to play for them in next summer's London Olympics. It will be Reinking's second stint with the Sharks, having originally signed for them in 1999 after two years with Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders and a single season with Derby Storm. After helping Sharks win five trophies in as many years, Reinking followed coach Chris Finch to Belgium and also played in Turkey. He returned to the BBL last season to help Mersey Tigers to three pieces of silverware - ironically only missing out on a clean sweep when the Liverpool-based club lost to Sharks in the BBL Cup final. In what is rumoured to be his last season as a professional player, Reinking will be taking on some coaching responsibilities and working closely with Sheffield Hallam University through their basketball teams whilst also looking to complete a Masters' course.



Reinking's back-court partner looks likely to be American guard Robert 'BJ' Jenkins, after the 6'1' rookie graduated from Murray State University, where he was regarded as a strong leader who will be sorely missed, and averaged 38% from the 3 point line. Lyons saw the impressive guard competing in summer tournaments back in his home town of New York and had looked immediately to get him on board. The Virginia-born player, transferred to Murray State from Liberty University, into what he felt was a more suitable programme for his development and went on to average 11 points, five steals and four assists per game, as his side won two conference championships



American big man Justin Dobbins also joins Lyons' team after a season at BBL rivals Worcester Wolves. The 6' 8' power forward who graduated from Eastern Michigan University averaging 10 points and five rebounds per game where he developed a reputation as a solid defender and shot block specialist. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dobbins averaged 18 points and eight rebounds per game last season.



Lyons also snapped up two former Essex Pirates players, Colin Sing and Zach Gachette. The pair will give Lyons some depth on his bench as well as studying at Sheffield Hallam University. Sing is a 6'7' small forward who has been part of the Great Britain programme at under-23 level while Gachette can play both guard positions.



It's not all newcomers for Lyons, with a key signing seeing power forward Mike Tuck return for another season. The popular Canadian will return to Sheffield for his third season and since joining the Sharks in December 2009 Tuck has provided player-coach Atiba Lyons (198-F-82, college: Pace) with flexibility in his front court and also an unselfishness when coming off the bench as Sheffield's sixth man. He averaged 13.8 points and 8.4 boards per game last year.



British big man Olu Babalola returns for a second season having quickly become a firm favourite at the Sharks following five years at BBL rivals Mersey Tigers and Newcastle Eagles. Despite a flurry of interest from home and abroad, the Sheffield forward took the early decision to remain at the club and will look to build on a 2010/11 season which saw him average 9.7 points and three rebounds. Club captain Adrian Anderson also returns for an eighth season and will be hoping to add to his collection of seven winners and four runners-up medals with the Sharks.

Super Mario Signs For WildCats - by Paul Nilsen
Durham Wildcats begin the biggest week in their history boosted by the news that key American Mario Flaherty (206-C-88, college: Houston Baptist) has agreed to join the BBL new boys. The highly-rated 6ft 9in forward flew into the North East over the weekend and will make his debut against Newcastle Eagles on Saturday. Flaherty joins Durham following a stint playing professional basketball in New Zealand earlier this year.



And the two-year starter at Houston Baptist University has already impressed head coach Dave Elderkin and his Wildcats team-mates. 'We have been working behind the scenes to get Mario over here for the best part of eight weeks but sometimes these things take time,' said Elderkin. 'His experience playing professionally in New Zealand will have done him a lot of good and I am sure that he will bring something a bit different with him.'



Flaherty joins fellow Americans Ralph Bucci and Mike Capocci on the Durham roster with the Wildcats expected to unveil their final US star in the nest 48 hours. And a player who averaged almost 14 points per game during his college career brings added height to a fledgling BBL side.



'People have been saying we are a small squad and they are right,' added Elderkin. 'But Mario goes some way to changing that and my hope is that we will be able to secure the services of a couple of other players - both with some height - before we play the Eagles this weekend.'

Pre-Season Focus : MK Lions - by Paul Nilsen
As he begins his second year as head coach at Prestige Home MK Lions, Mike New has put together a new-look squad as his side aim to bounce back following their play-off miss last year writes Dave Ryan.



Chicago born New spent four years as a player with the Lions, helping them to BBL Cup glory in 2008, before stepping in the coaching seat last season.



Lions fans will be delighted that New has managed to hold on to back-court duo Demarius Bolds and Stefan Gill. Bolds' first year in the BBL saw him lead the BBL in steals at almost three per contest as well as averaging 21 points per game whilst shooting 41% from the three point line and dishing out over four assists per game.



Former EBL Division One MVP Gill was also a success in his debut BBL season as he finished the season with to 13.4 points, three rebounds, three assists whilst shooting 43% from the field and a very healthy 37% from the three point line. The 5'10' University of Bolton guard joined from Manchester Magic having also had a spell in the Danish top division averaging 10 points a game.



Power forward Howard Crawford (203-F-88, college: UAB) in a new addition to the Lions' roster, and New will be hoping that he can repeat his success at University of Alabama Birmingham where he led them to the NIT Elite Eight. At 6'9' and 240lbs, the 23-year-old creates problems in the paint for any defender with his great footwork and ability to finish above the rim. Crawford averaged 12 points per game and nearly five rebounds per outing whilst also shooting over 30% at the three point line and 47% from the field, and joins Lions after brief spells in Kuwait and Holland.



Stefan GillAlso brining plenty of size to the Lions' front court is 6'9' power forward, Daniel Northern. A Graduate of Tennessee Tech, the 25-year-old was a key figure at both ends of the court, he averaged 13 points per game and his athleticism saw him grab nearly ten rebounds per outing and a very healthy three blocks per game. Following graduation, in 2008, Northern's first pro experience was in LEB Gold in Spain where he did well averaging eight points and six boards per outing.



Adrien Sturt will be vying for court time with Crawford and Northern, after the 6'10' Australian/Brit joined from Essex Pirates. The under-23 GB International will enter his second BBL season having graduated from Snow University in the USA with whom he won the SWAC Conference Championships in 2007. Sturt averaged 11 points and 6 rebounds per game last year, having a season-high 28 points against the Cheshire Jets and snaring 12 rebounds on two occasions. The athletic forward also won ABA Championships in Australia in 2008 as well as the Australian NBL Championship in 2009 with the Melbourne Tigers.



Small forward Carl Josey also joins having played junior basketball at Solent and East Durham before attending Kings Academy in Tennessee averaging 22ppg and 12rpg in both his years there. The 6'5' Brit saw his college career at Virginia Military Institute blighted by injury with a broken hand and broken ankle hampering his development however a year's pro experience in Iceland last year saw him average 12 points and seven rebounds per game.



Another new Brit to link up with MK is 21-year-old Nathan Schall. The 6'7' forward won every title available at under-18 level with Manchester Magic in 2008 and helped their senior teams win the Division One player-offs in 2009-10 alongside Gill. An athletic forward, Schall also shoots the ball well.



Completing the Lions' roster for the new season is Portuguese guard Nuno Pedroso who joins after a successful stint in Spain. The 6'2' players stared in LEB in Spain where his team won the LEB Bronze before moving up to the next level, as well as the Proliga in Portugal where he has been a starter all his career and won the Championship in 2005, 2007 and 2011. Last season Nuno averaged 15 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game being named to the All Proliga second team.

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  URUGUAY   


Robert Mitchell leads Guruyu Waston - by Hector Lopez
Guruyu Waston playing for the first time the Uruguayan League defeated Cordon 71-70. For Waston Robert Mitchell (198-F-86) scored 26 points, grabbed 11 rebounds with 3 assists and 3 blocks while Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) added 7 points and 10 rebounds. For Cordon, Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84, college: S.Carolina) netted 19 points with 6 rebounds and Anthony Simpson (203-F-87, college: Kent St.) scored 15 points with 9 rebounds.The League will continue tonigth with the last champions from Malvin playing against Larre Borges.

Standings - LUB
LUB Standings
Capital
 1. Aguada 1-0 
 2. Bohemios 1-0 
 3. Defensor 1-0 
 4. Guruyu Waston 1-0 
 5. Montevideo 1-0 
 6. Un.Atletica 1-0 
 7. Welcome 1-0 
 8. Hebraica 0-0 
 9. Malvin 0-0 
 10. Bigua 0-1 
 11. Cader 0-1 
 12. Cordon 0-1 
 13. Larre Borges 0-1 
 14. Olimpia 0-1 
 15. Sayago 0-1 
 16. Trouville 0-1 
Littoral
 1. Anastasia 0-0 
 2. Juventus Salto 0-0 
 3. Remeros 0-0 
 4. Universitario S. 0-0 
 5. Wanderers 0-0 
South
 1. Flores Trinidad 0-0 
 2. Lagomar 0-0 
 3. Lavalleja 0-0 
 4. Maldonado 0-0 
 5. Plaza 0-0 


Stats Leaders - LUB
Points Per Game
 Willard CREWS
  Cader
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 31
 1. Crews, Cader31.0 
 2. Johnson, Olimpia31.0 
 3. Mitchell, Guruyu W.26.0 
 4. Haller, Montevideo25.0 
 5. Roland, Sayago20.0 
 6. Palacios, Cordon19.0 
 7. Perez, Guruyu W.19.0 
 8. Walker, Un.Atletica19.0 
 9. Giano, Cordon18.0 
 10. Caudle, Un.Atleti.18.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Angel VARELA
  Larre B.
  (187-G-87)
  Avg: 14
 1. Varela, Larre B.14.0 
 2. Mitchell, Guruyu W.11.0 
 3. Hartford, Cader11.0 
 4. Haller, Montevideo11.0 
 5. Charquero, Welcome10.0 
 6. Martin, Guruyu W.10.0 
 7. Shellman, Sayago9.0 
 8. Monroe, Larre B.9.0 
 9. Simpson, Cordon9.0 
 10. Caudle, Un.Atleti.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Juan Carlos ZABALL
  Guruyu W.
  (181-PG-77)
  Avg: 8
 1. Zaball, Guruyu W.8.0 
 2. Pereyra, Bohemios7.0 
 3. Hartford, Cader5.0 
 4. de Gouveia, Monte.5.0 
 5. Silvarrey, Sayago4.0 
 6. Roselli, Cader4.0 
 7. Crews, Cader4.0 
 8. Bertolini, Un.Atle.4.0 
 9. Modernell, Larre B.4.0 
 10. Walker, Un.Atleti.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Terence SHELLMAN
  Sayago
  (199-F-78)
  Avg: 5
 1. Shellman, Sayago5.0 
 2. Lazzaroni, Larre B.4.0 
 3. Hartford, Cader4.0 
 4. Lewis, Olimpia3.0 
 5. Walker, Un.Atletica3.0 
 6. Zaball, Guruyu W.3.0 
 7. de Gouveia, Monte.3.0 
 8. Keenan, Larre B.3.0 
 9. Pereyra, Bohemios3.0 
 10. Acosta, Welcome2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert MITCHELL
  Guruyu W.
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 3
 1. Mitchell, Guruyu W.3.0 
 2. Charquero, Welcome2.0 
 3. Miglionico, Sayago1.0 
 4. San Miguel, Bohemi.1.0 
 5. De Leon, Sayago1.0 
 6. Shellman, Sayago1.0 
 7. Garcia, Cordon1.0 
 8. Suarez, Cordon1.0 
 9. Martin, Guruyu W.1.0 
 10. Trelles, Bohemios1.0 


*****************************************************
  VIETNAM   


Ho Chi Minh City Men to represent Vietnam at 2011 SEA Games - by Neal Hopkins
For the first time in several years, Vietnam will send a team to the South East Asia Games in Jakarta, this November. The Ho Chi Minh City team that recently won the National Tournament in Nha Trang will send the majority of the players to Indonesia. HCMC has dominated the National Tournament for the last 5 years, reigning supreme each year with very few losses. This year they were upset by a young Air Force team in Hanoi in the final game but already clinched the Championship. The Sports Federation of Vietnam has decided to reward them by providing the opportunity to compete on the International Stage. It is unlikely, however, that they will be able to compete with the likes of the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand, who have dominated the Games in recent history. The lack of a National Team in Vietnam has been a problem for the development of the game and it is hoped that this will be the first step in rejuvenating the National Program.

*****************************************************
  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Astana Tigers announced Igor Milosevic - by Eurobasket News
Astana Tigers announced Igor Milosevic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season.
In 2010-2011 the player started for Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (LKL): but in Dec,'10 moved to Trabzonspor Basketbol (Turkey-TBL, starting five). In 15 games he averaged 9.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 68.4%.
Last year Milosevic moved to the Lithuanian powerhouse last January and averaged 9.9ppg, 1.6rpg, Assists-5 (4.5apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 21.9%, FT: 63.0% in LKL and 15.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 5.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 72.2%, 3PT: 47.4%, FT: 81.3% in Baltic League.With Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius Milosevic won LKL. Over the last two seasons he became Lithuanian Cup Winner -10. Eurobasket.com Lithuanian LKL All-Imports/Bosmans Team -10, Baltic League Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Baltic League Finalist -10
Lithuanian League Regular Season Champion -10, Lithuanian League Champion -10. Last year he reached Turkish Cup Semifinals -11.


Justin Hawkins signed with BK Minsk-2006 - by Eurobasket News
Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: N.Mexico St.) signed with BK Minsk-2006 for 2011/2012 season. The American Forward comes from Strasbourg IG (France-ProA, starting five).
In 2003-2004 he started for Utah (NCAA) and in 33 games averaged 5.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 26ast. In 2006-2007 moved to N.Mexico St. (NCAA) and became the 6th top-scorer with 15.6ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3Pts: 33.3%, FT: 70.3%. In
2008-2009 appeared in Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProA, starting five) and in 25 games showed 13.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 61.8%.
Last season Justin Hawkins played for Strasbourg IG (France-ProA, starting five) and had 9.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 61.1%.
Justin Hawkins recorded 20 points three times during the year. In the last game he collected 20 points at the Regular Season Round 30.There was an upset when higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (18-12) was defeated at home by eleventh ranked Strasbourg IG (12-18) 77-72. Chorale de Roanne trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 21-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 72-77 at the end of the game.




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


22nd Afrobasket for Women: Rwanda punish Guinea 69-35 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Rwanda seems to have behind it the not too impressive performance at the just concluded 10th All Africa Games in Mozambique as it open her 22nd edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women with a resounding 69-35 points victory over hapless Guinea.

The Rwandese who out played the Guinean in all department of the opening game of the Bamako, Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports winning in all four quarters by 28-11, 15-09, 17-10 and 09-05 were also the better side on the board grabbing 44 rebounds to Guinea 22, 11 steals to Guinea 4 and 10 assists to Guinea 8.

The FIBA Africa Zone-5 side was led in scoring by Tierra Kabarebe who had 22 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals with Honoree Amibare contributing 18 points 4 assists and 3 rebounds for their side win.

Rwanda coach, Amonovic Nenad attributed his side win to the competitive level of the 10th All Africa Games to their win.

Coach Nenad says his mission in Bamako, Mali is to take each game as it comes.

Yes we won easily against Guinea but I must commend my players and also the tough nature of the 10th All Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique couple with the fact that we know little about Guinea before the jump-ball.

I think it is too early to talk of qualifying for the quarter final as we hope to go along with our game plan of taking each game as they come.


22nd Afrobasket for Women: Cote dIvoire loses to Mozambique 65-69 OT - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After going off to a first quarter win of 15-11 points Cote dIvoire loses to resilient Mozambican side by 65-69 points at Over-time with enterprising Mozambican point guard Ngulela Deolinda combining beautifully with experience forward Ana Flavia Azinheira who scored 6 of her 9 points in the over-time to help see off the Ivorian challenge.

Mozambique took the second, third and over-time quarters leaving Cote dIvoire to pick the first and fourth quarters (15-11, 12-16, 15-19, 16-12 and 07-11).

Mozambique was ahead by one point with three seconds left in the fourth quarter when Cote dIvoire forward Christelle Ngarsanet was fouled while attempting a lay-up and the referee called for a two free throws with her making one of the two shot to force an over-time with scores at 58 points apiece.

Cote dIvoire an early initiative at the resumption of the five minutes over-time through Stehpanie Ngarsanet but the combination of Deolinda, Azinheira and Dongue earn the Mozambican a hard earned victory of 69-65 points in group-A opening game of the 2011 Afrobasket for Women.

Unassuming Mozambican forward Leia Dongue had a double double of 13 points and 12 rebounds to seal victory for her side.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mali edge Tunisia 69-45 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The quest by host of the 22nd edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women and 2007 champion of the continent biggest women basketball competition, Mali receive a boost Friday at the Stade du 26 Mars got off to a good start with a 69-45 points victory over Tunisia in her group-A opening game.

Spurred on by mercurial captain, Hamchetou Maiga the Malian won the first three quarters by 19-05, 17-12 and 20-13 before dropping the last quarter by 13-15 points to the FIBA Africa Zone-1 side.

Mali led it opponent on the board with 50 rebounds with 33 of them coming off her solid defense while Tunisia had 26 rebounds with Mali giving 10 assists to Tunisia 8.

Mali centre, Djeneba Cissoko led the floor with a double double effort of 15 points and 13 rebounds, Nassira Traore added 10 points with Nagnouma Coulibaly making a solid presence in defense with 10 rebounds to give victory to their side.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Nigeria wins tight game against Cameroon 68-60 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria relied heavily on defense to wade-off the stiff challenge pose by Cameroon in a group-B game on Sunday at the 22nd Afrobasket for Women.

Nigeria who picked the second and third quarters by 20-10 and 13-11 points after tying the first quarter with her FIBA Africa Zone-4 strong side at 17 points apiece and lost the last quarter by 18-22 points showed better prowess on the board with 36 rebounds with the Lioness grabbing 34 rebounds, Nigeria was also slightly better on the offense with 12 assists to it opponent 7 for a final score-line of 68-60 points.

Head Coach of the Nigerian team, Ayo Bakare gave kudos to his Cameroonian counterpart for a job well-done.

Coach Bakare praised Coach Fabio Fossati of Cameroon for building a stronger and effective Cameroon team while applauding the performance of his players for fighting from the jump-ball to the buzzer.

I must commend the Cameroon side for giving us a very good fight it shows the man at the helm of its technical affair (Coach Fossati) has really put in a great effort to build such a solid team because in my close to twenty years of coach the Nigeria women national team I have never seen a Cameroon side that is so solid with great technical depth.

His Cameroonian counterpart, Coach Fossati congratulated the Nigeria team for the big win.

I must commend the Nigerian team who threw everything back at us as we strive to make a mark by breaking the jinx of being the first Cameroon side to beat Nigeria in a long while.

We try everything possible to break the Nigeria defense and stop their offense but their bench rose to the challenge to counter our plans, we have learnt great lessons from this lose and we hope to correct them in our next game against Angola on Monday.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mozambique keep clean slate beat Tunisia 69-53

Mozambique continues her unbeaten run in 22nd edition of Afrobasket for Women with a 69-53 points victory over Tunisia at the Pavillon des Sports Modibo Kaita Stadium, Bamako Mali.

The Mozambican opened a ten points lead going into the break with 35-25 points win (22-07, 13-18) having gained a comfortable 22-07 points lead in the first quarter Mozambique allowed the Tunisian to fight back strongly from the second quarter through the fourth quarter losing all three quarters by 13-18, 17-20 and 17-18 points but the rally to take hold of the game was not enough to see the Mozambican triumph at the end of the game.

Mozambique forward Leia Dongue posted another five-star performance with a double double effort of 18 points and 10 rebounds while her compatriot Deolinda Gimo added 13 points to give their a 3-0 recorded joining the likes of defending champion Senegal and host Mali to keet clean slate.

The FIBA Africa Zone-6 nations who seems to have learnt a great lesson after finishing fourth on home court at the 10th All Africa Games last month will observe Monday as rest day before filling out against host Mali on Tuesday in battle of wit at the Stade du 26 Mars at 18H00.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Senegal white-wash Guinea 99-32

Africa most crown women basketball nation, Senegal Sunday white-wash hapless Guinea by 99-32 points in a group-B pairing of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports, Modibo Kaita Stadium Bamako Mali.

The Lioness, ten-time Africa champion of the continent most cherished women basketball competition gave no room to the Guinean to operate as they dominated their opponent from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning in all four quarters by 29-06, 21-06, 20-14 and 21-06 to remain top of group-B.

Senegal who will take on Rwanda on Tuesday at the Pavillon des Sports was led by Aya Traore who poured in 20 points with Ndeye Ndiaye posted a double double effort of 12 points and 10 rebounds to help the Lioness maintain an hundred percent record.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Angola stops Rwanda 67-59

Angola today (Sunday) fought back to over-come first quarter challenge posed by Rwanda (08-21) to win the remaining three quarters by 15-11, 25-15 and 19-12 to pick her first group-B win by 67-59 points of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars, Bamako Mali.

The 10th All Africa Games silver medallist have to fall back on experience to earn its first win making the Rwandese to make several mistakes with excellent team work back by a bench that continue to urge the players to go all the way.

Angola forward Nacissela Mauricio led her team road to victory with 15 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Nadir Manuel had 13 points and 3 rebounds with Sonia Guadalupe adding 12 points for their side win.

Angola will battle Cameroon Lioness on Monday at the Pavillon des Sports Modibo Kaita Stadium and step on court against Nigeria on Tuesday at the Stade du 26 Mars.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mali too much for Ghana 95-30


Host of the 22nd edition of Afrobasket for Women Mali Sunday rode rough-shod over Ghana in a group-A game of the race to Africa sole direct ticket to London 2012 Olympic Games.

The Malian show no mercy as they pummelled Ghana in all four quarters by 21-06, 18-07, 27-05 and 29-12 to remain top of group-A and a secured place in the quarter-finals.

Mali forward Djene Diawara led the floor with a double double performance of 21 points and 11 rebounds, Djenebou Sissoko had 19 points and 3 rebounds while Nassira Traore added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to aid their side smooth run in the championship.

Mali like most other teams will observe tomorrow (Monday) as rest day while Ghana pays the prize of arriving late when they file out against Democratic Republic of Congo at 16H00 at the Pavillon des Sports, Modibo Kaita Stadium, Bamako.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: DR Congo pick first win over Cote dIvoire 59-54

Democratic Republic of Congo Sunday won a survival game over Cote dIvoire at the Stade du 26 Mar Bamako, Mali in a group-A tie of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women.

Coming from a first quarter loss of 15-22 the FIBA Africa Zone-4 side mounted ceaseless pressure on the Ivoirians which yielded little dividend as they tied the second quarter at 9 points apiece to go into the break with 8 points deficit of 24-32 points.

Upon resumption of action in the third quarter the Congolese spurred on by forward Makiete Mfutila who led the floor with 20 points and 3 rebounds out played Cote dIvoire in the quarter with an 18-12 points win to reduce the margin between it and the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side to just two points.

The fourth quarter however, produced some great moment for the DR Congo side who continued from where it stopped in the third quarter to over-come Cote dIvoire by 17-10 points for a final score-line of 59-54 points for her first win in the championship thus brightening it hope of making it to the quarter-finals.



Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Senegal sees off Nigeria 86-62 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women Senegal Friday confirm its rating as a true champion with an emphatic 86-62 points victory over Nigeria in a group-B game of the 22nd edition of the competition at the Stade du 26 Mars, Bamako Mali.

Senegal won the first, third and fourth quarters by 22-16, 18-10 and 27-17 while it shared the second quarter with Nigeria at 19 points apiece.

Senegal Astou Traore led her team with 17 points and 6 rebounds, captain Aya Traore poured in 16 points and grabbed 3 rebounds with the duo of Ndeye Sene and Oumou Sarr contributed 12 and 10 points to give their side an opening group-B win over Nigeria.

Senegal will take to the floor against Angola on match Day-2 with Nigeria going up against Guinea. Ghana will slug out with Tunisia. Cote dIvoire battles host Mali. Democratic Republic of Congo will take to the court of State du 26 Mars against Mozambique while Cameroon and Rwanda will entertain the crowd at the Pavillon.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Njonhou led Cameroon past Rwanda 45-42 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Cameroon forward and Captain Amina Njonhou led her team to a 45-42 points victory in a group-B game of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports, Bamako, Mali on Saturday.

Njouhou recorded a double double figure of 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assist says she decided to take a low profile poster in the game by combining with the rest of her teammates whom she describe as being young.

The 98 kilogram, 1.8o metre tall forward told FIBA Afrique.org in a post match chat that she might decide to go full offensive in her side next game against Nigeria on Sunday.

I have never being known to be casual in a game because one has to be business-like when on the court what really happened is that I chose to play with the rest of the team as you can see most of our players are new to the Afrobasket but that position might change in our next game against Nigeria if I get the go ahead from the bench.

Datou Nzeukou also had a double double in Lioness first group game with 11 rebounds and 10 points.

Cameroon led Rwanda in all the department of the game with 46 rebounds against Rwanda 33, both sides had 6 assists and also had the same share in turn-over with 20 each while Cameroon had 11 steals Rwanda had 5.

Cameroon will file out against Nigeria on Sunday at 14H00 while Rwanda will be up against Angola at 16H00.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: DR Congo bow to Mozambique 55-76 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The hope of three time champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women, Democratic Republic of Congo of making a bold return to the big stage of Africa basketball was dashed Saturday by Mozambique in a group-A game of the 22nd edition of Africa flagship women competition The Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars Bamako, Mali.

The former champion lost in all four quarters by 17-25, 12-18, 15=17 and 11-16 to go bow to the superior fire power of the Deolinda Ngulela powered Mozambican side by 55-76 points.

Ngulela who scored 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds was at her element as she marshalled the point guard position with excellent court vision of the her team to pick a second win.

Mozambique forward Leia Dongue led her team in a second straight game with 19 points and 8 rebounds while the duo of Valerdina Man honga and Catia Micato added 12 and 10 points to earn a well-deserved win for their side.

DR Congo will take on Cote dIvoire at 20H00 at the Stade du 26 Mars on Sunday while Mozambique will keep a date against Ghana who failed to honour its opening group-A game against Tunisia on Saturday.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Nigeria run-off Guinea 60-31 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria rose from the defeat to Senegal on Friday to humble Guinea by 60-31 points to keep of making it to the last-eight alive.

Nigeria showed lots of promise in its tie against Guinea out-playing the first host of the Africa championship in all department of the game winning all four quarters by 21-06, 16-12, 08-07 and 15-06 respectively while it out-rebounded the Guinean with 46 rebounds to 33, 9 assists to 7 and 4 block-shots to nil.

Nigeria forward Rashidat Sadiq led her team in scoring with 15 points while centre Adeola Wylie grabbed 11 rebounds with home-girl Nkechi Akashili having two blocks.

Nigeria will play Cameroon at 14H00 on Championship Day-3 at the Stade du 26 Mars while Guinea will battle defending champion Senegal at 16H00 at the Pavillon des Sports.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Cote dIvoire in losing steak, bow to Mali 44-57

Cote dIvoire loses a second straight game Saturday to host Mali in a group-A pairing of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars.

The Ivorian who forced an over-time in her first lose to Mozambique on Friday at the Pavillon des Sports on Friday could not withstand the foray of the 2007 champion as it lost in four quarters by 12-14, 12-14, 10-16 and 10-13 for a cumulative score-line of 44-57 points.

Mali forward Djenebou Sissoko led the floor with 14 points, 9 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 assists with Meiya Tirera pouring in 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists to help their keep a clean slate in group-A.

Cote dIvoire continues search for a winning formula will see it take on Democratic Republic of Congo at 20H00 on Sunday at the Stade du 26 Mars.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Angola chicken-out to Senegal 42-63

Angola opened her group-B campaign of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women Saturday at the Stade du 26 Mars with a 42-63 points lose to defending champion Senegal after putting up a good fight in the first half of the epic battle (26-32).

The Angolan lost the first quarter by 08-17 points but fought back to pick the second by 18-15 to narrow the margin to just six points going into the break only to chicken-out in the third and fourth quarters losing both quarters by 07-17 and 09-14 points to end proceeding at 42-63 points.

Angola also gave up the fight for the board to the Lioness by 22 rebounds to 36 and 3 assists to Senegal 13 with any of its players grossing a double digit scores.

Senegal Astou Traore led other players on court with 13 points and 5 rebounds as the reigning queen of Africa hoops look set to devour Guinea in Day-3 of the championship on Sunday with an eye on the continent sole direct London 2012 Olympic Games ticket in her sight Senegal sure knows that underrating the Guinean might spell doom for her and skipper Aya Traore has declared a no-mercy battle against Guinea when both sides clash at the Pavillon des Sports.



*****************************************************
  ANGOLA - Women  


Angolan National Team 2011 - by Greg
Starting five
#s#
Catarina Camufal
Camufal
Sonia Guadalupe
Guadalupe
Nassecela Mauricio
Mauricio
Nadir Manuel
Manuel
Angela Cardoso
Cardoso
#e#5
4 Catarina Camufal 167-G-80 Inter-Clube Angola
5 Luzia Simao
6 Fenzarda Jorge 172-F-85 Inter-Clube Angola
7 Angela Cardoso 180-F-79 Inter-Clube Angola
8 Eusobio Da Silva 88 1 De Agosto Angola
9 C Matiquite
10 Sonia Guadalupe 188-F/G-85 Inter-Clube Angola
11 Luisa Tomas 192-C-83 Inter-Clube Angola
12 Astrida Vicente 174-F/G-78 Inter-Clube Angola
13 Nassecela Mauricio 181-F-80 1 De Agosto Angola
14 Nadir Manuel 183-F-86 Inter-Clube Angola
15 Ngiendula Filipe 178-F-82 Inter-Clube Angola

Anibal Moreira Head Coach


*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA - Women  


Argentina starts with victory in Neiva - by Eurobasket News
ARGENTINA - CHILE 80-50

Argentina cruised past Chile in Neiva 80-50 for 1-0 record in Group A. It was a Day Two of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011, but Argentineans appeared for the first time. On the other side, Chile faced with the second straight loss and they have 0-2 now. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) led the winners with 15 points and Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90, agency: Players Group) added on point less than her. Sandra Pavon (175-F-85) (7 rebs) and Stephany Thomas (175-G-89) helped with 13 points each. In the loosing squad, Javiera Novion (168-G-87, college: Eckerd) had 15 points and was the only one with double-digits. Daniela Troncoso (175-F-87) and Gamboa Marisol (178-F-86) had 8 points apiece. Quarters: 10-13, 25-8, 27-15, 18-14. Today, Argentina will play against Puerto Rico. Chile will have a day off, what should help them to analyze first two defeats and improve their game for rest of the championship.

Argentina: Erica Sanchez 15, Debora Gonzalez 14, Sandra Pavon 13+7 boards, Stephany Thomas 13
Chile: Javiera Novion 15, Daniela Troncoso 8, Gamboa Marisol 8

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


U17 Oceania Championship: Australia edge New Zealand three times in a row - by Eurobasket News
Australian U17 National Team qualified for U17 World Championship. They swept the Oceania Championship series versus New Zealand. The Aussies finished the series with a 52:33 success. Lauren Scherf posted 12 points to pace the winners. Australia trailed by a single point at the first break 8:9. They stepped on the gas and established a 25:18 halftime lead. Australia cleared off in the third term. They outscored their opponents 19:5 in the period to enter the fourth frame up by as many as 21 points. New Zealand limited the Aussie team to just 8 points in the final term but never threatened the margin after all. Louise Brown provided 11 points, while Alicia Froling posted 10 points in the winning effort. Deena Franklin responded with 8 points for New Zealand. Stella Beck notched 7 points in the loss.

Game 1: Australia vs. New Zealand 70:52
Game 2: Australia vs. New Zealand 75:50
Game 3: Australia vs. New Zealand 52:33


*****************************************************
  BOSNIA - Women  


Uni CajaCanarias lands Bosnian C Dragana Svitlica - by Eurobasket News
Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) will stay in Spain for at least one more season. The Bosnian center penned a deal with Club Baloncesto Uni CajaCanarias. Svitlica heads to her new club from Celta Vigo, where she spent last four seasons. In the latest one she averaged 3.5 points and 2.6 rebounds for 25 games. She had almost the same numbers in 2009/10. Dragana Svitlica moved to Spain in 2007. She played for the Bosnian squad Mladi Krajisnik before that. From 2004 to 2008, Dragana Svitlica played for the Bosnian National Team. She had 5 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 7 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2009. In the past, she also played for U18 Bosnia.

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


Brazil stays undefeated in Neiva, first loss for Canada - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - BRAZIL 39-56

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Neiva. Brazil cruised past Canada in Day Two 56-39 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Canada dropped to second place with 1-1 score. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) came up with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds for Brazil. Their second scorers were Patricia De Oliveira (180-F/G-79) and Palmira Marcal (177-G-84) with 10 points each. On the other side, Canada got 10 points from Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88, college: Pepperdine). Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) was the second scorer in loss with only 6 points. Quarters: 8-8, 12-15, 9-23, 10-10. Brazil will play against Jamaica today. Canada will meet Paraguay.

Canada: Miranda Ayim 10, Kimberley Smith 6
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 13+11 boards, Patricia De Oliveira 10, Palmira Marcal 10

*****************************************************
  CAMEROON - Women  


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Njonhou led Cameroon past Rwanda 45-42 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Cameroon forward and Captain Amina Njonhou led her team to a 45-42 points victory in a group-B game of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports, Bamako, Mali on Saturday.

Njouhou recorded a double double figure of 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assist says she decided to take a low profile poster in the game by combining with the rest of her teammates whom she describe as being young.

The 98 kilogram, 1.8o metre tall forward told FIBA Afrique.org in a post match chat that she might decide to go full offensive in her side next game against Nigeria on Sunday.

I have never being known to be casual in a game because one has to be business-like when on the court what really happened is that I chose to play with the rest of the team as you can see most of our players are new to the Afrobasket but that position might change in our next game against Nigeria if I get the go ahead from the bench.

Datou Nzeukou also had a double double in Lioness first group game with 11 rebounds and 10 points.

Cameroon led Rwanda in all the department of the game with 46 rebounds against Rwanda 33, both sides had 6 assists and also had the same share in turn-over with 20 each while Cameroon had 11 steals Rwanda had 5.

Cameroon will file out against Nigeria on Sunday at 14H00 while Rwanda will be up against Angola at 16H00.


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


Brazil stays undefeated in Neiva, first loss for Canada - by Eurobasket News
CANADA - BRAZIL 39-56

Both teams celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Neiva. Brazil cruised past Canada in Day Two 56-39 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Canada dropped to second place with 1-1 score. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) came up with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds for Brazil. Their second scorers were Patricia De Oliveira (180-F/G-79) and Palmira Marcal (177-G-84) with 10 points each. On the other side, Canada got 10 points from Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88, college: Pepperdine). Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) was the second scorer in loss with only 6 points. Quarters: 8-8, 12-15, 9-23, 10-10. Brazil will play against Jamaica today. Canada will meet Paraguay.

Canada: Miranda Ayim 10, Kimberley Smith 6
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 13+11 boards, Patricia De Oliveira 10, Palmira Marcal 10

*****************************************************
  CHILE - Women  


Argentina starts with victory in Neiva - by Eurobasket News
ARGENTINA - CHILE 80-50

Argentina cruised past Chile in Neiva 80-50 for 1-0 record in Group A. It was a Day Two of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011, but Argentineans appeared for the first time. On the other side, Chile faced with the second straight loss and they have 0-2 now. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) led the winners with 15 points and Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90, agency: Players Group) added on point less than her. Sandra Pavon (175-F-85) (7 rebs) and Stephany Thomas (175-G-89) helped with 13 points each. In the loosing squad, Javiera Novion (168-G-87, college: Eckerd) had 15 points and was the only one with double-digits. Daniela Troncoso (175-F-87) and Gamboa Marisol (178-F-86) had 8 points apiece. Quarters: 10-13, 25-8, 27-15, 18-14. Today, Argentina will play against Puerto Rico. Chile will have a day off, what should help them to analyze first two defeats and improve their game for rest of the championship.

Argentina: Erica Sanchez 15, Debora Gonzalez 14, Sandra Pavon 13+7 boards, Stephany Thomas 13
Chile: Javiera Novion 15, Daniela Troncoso 8, Gamboa Marisol 8

*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA - Women  


Puerto Rico outguns Colombia for the first win - by Eurobasket News
COLOMBIA - PUERTO RICO 46-68

First victory for Puerto Rico in Neiva. They handed 46-68 loss to the hosts of FIBA Americas Championship 2011 - Colombia. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Preliminary Group A. Cynthia Valentin (173-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) exploded in victory with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Marie Placido (181-F-87) and Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) added 11 and 10 points. They also had 9 and 7 rebounds respectively. On the other side, Colombia got 13 points and 8 assists from Erika Valek (168-G-82, college: Purdue). Elena Diaz (185-F-83, college: Nebraska) delivered 10 points. Quarters: 4-20, 22-16, 11-17, 9-15. Puerto Rico will take on Argentina today. Colombia will play against Cuba.

Colombia: Erika Valek 13+8 as, Elena Diaz 10
Puerto Rico: Cynthia Valentin 24+5 boards, Marie Placido 11+9 boards, Jazmine Sepulveda 10+7 boards

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


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Katerina ELHOTOVA
  USK Praha
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 23
 1. Elhotova, USK Pra.23.0 
 2. Eldebrink, USK P.16.5 
 3. Uhrova, Strakonice16.0 
 4. Snajdrova-Z., Trut.16.0 
 5. Tarasava, VS Praha15.0 
 6. Mircheva, VS Praha15.0 
 7. Misurova, Trutnov14.5 
 8. Montanana, USK P.14.0 
 9. Vorlova, VS Praha12.5 
 10. Zavazalova, Hrade.12.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ilona BURGROVA
  USK Praha
  (196-C-84)
  Avg: 10
 1. Burgrova, USK Praha10.0 
 2. Reisingerova, VS P.9.5 
 3. Sipova, Slovanka.9.0 
 4. Mircheva, VS Praha9.0 
 5. Krizova, Strakonice9.0 
 6. Kulichova, USK P.7.5 
 7. Snajdrova-Z., Trut.7.5 
 8. Vetrovcova, Trutn.7.0 
 9. Skrabalova, Strak.7.0 
 10. Zavazalova, Hrade.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Anna MONTANANA
  USK P.
  (186-F-80)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Montanana, USK P.5.5 
 2. Nezdarilova, Slova.4.5 
 3. Elhotova, USK Pra.4.0 
 4. Eldebrink, USK P.4.0 
 5. Misurova, Trutnov3.0 
 6. Elhotova, VS Praha3.0 
 7. Zavazalova, Hradec3.0 
 8. Hindrakova, Trutnov3.0 
 9. Tarasava, VS Praha3.0 
 10. Stara, Hradec K.2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Anna MONTANANA
  USK P.
  (186-F-80)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Montanana, USK P.4.5 
 2. Elhotova, VS Praha4.0 
 3. Eldebrink, USK P.4.0 
 4. Nezdarilova, Slova.3.5 
 5. Kotlanova, Slovank.2.5 
 6. Burgrova, USK Praha2.5 
 7. Sipova, Slovanka.2.0 
 8. Zavazalova, Hradec2.0 
 9. Zrustova, USK Pra.2.0 
 10. Vyoralova, VS Pra.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Katerina BARTONOVA
  USK P.
  (173-G-90)
  Avg: 2
 1. Bartonova, USK P.2.0 
 2. Elhotova, USK Pra.2.0 
 3. Reisingerova, VS P.2.0 
 4. Kulichova, USK P.2.0 
 5. Zrustova, USK Pra.1.5 
 6. Mircheva, VS Praha1.5 
 7. Smidkova, VS Praha1.0 
 8. Zavazalova, Hradec1.0 
 9. Bakajsova, VS Pra.1.0 
 10. Viteckova, USK P.1.0 


*****************************************************
  DR CONGO - Women  


DR Congo National Team 2011 - by Greg
4 Kadidja Miloso
5 Tebapale Badite
6 Kapinga Kalombo 84 Arc-en-ciel DR Congo
7 Mabibi Tuzolana 177-88
8 Kanku Tshibola
9 Teba Mambengya
10 Nyota Muganza
11 Munono Kikwiki 79
12 Bopoli Mangongo
13 Mubalo Kanyibo
14 Mfutila Makiete 88 Arc-en-ciel DR Congo
15 Amongi Kabobo

Bukapa Ismibangu Head Coach


*****************************************************
  FIBA AMERICAS - Women  


Day Two in Neiva - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Argentina - Chile 80-50
Argentina cruised past Chile in Neiva 80-50 for 1-0 record in Group A. It was a Day Two of the FIBA Americas Championship 2011, but Argentineans appeared for the first time. On the other side, Chile faced with the second straight loss and they have 0-2 now. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) led the winners with 15 points and Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90, agency: Players Group) added on point less than her. Sandra Pavon (175-F-85) (7 rebs) and Stephany Thomas (175-G-89) helped with 13 points each. In the loosing squad, Javiera Novion (168-G-87, college: Eckerd) had 15 points and was the only one with double-digits. Daniela Troncoso (175-F-87) and Gamboa Marisol (178-F-86) had 8 points apiece. Quarters: 10-13, 25-8, 27-15, 18-14. Today, Argentina will play against Puerto Rico. Chile will have a day off, what should help them to analyze first two defeats and improve their game for rest of the championship.

Colombia - Puerto Rico 46-68
First victory for Puerto Rico in Neiva. They handed 46-68 loss to the hosts of FIBA Americas Championship 2011 - Colombia. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Preliminary Group A. Cynthia Valentin (173-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) exploded in victory with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Marie Placido (181-F-87) and Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) added 11 and 10 points. They also had 9 and 7 rebounds respectively. On the other side, Colombia got 13 points and 8 assists from Erika Valek (168-G-82, college: Purdue). Elena Diaz (185-F-83, college: Nebraska) delivered 10 points. Quarters: 4-20, 22-16, 11-17, 9-15. Puerto Rico will take on Argentina today. Colombia will play against Cuba.

Group B
Jamaica - Mexico 69-64
It was the first appearance for Jamaica in Neiva and they registered first win. Jamaica was better than Mexico 69-64 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Mexico dropped to 0-2 after this meeting. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 28 points and 9 rebounds. Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) scored 19 points and Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) added 13 points, plus 12 boards. Mexico got the most from Erika Gomez (187-F/C-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) - 21 points and 7 rebounds. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) delivered 16 points and was the last one with double-digits. Quarters: 20-9, 17-26, 18-18, 14-11. In Day Three, Jamaica will play against Brazil. Mexico will take a rest.

Canada - Brazil 39-56
Both teams celebrated in Day One of the FIBA Americas Championship in Neiva. Brazil cruised past Canada in Day Two 56-39 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Canada dropped to second place with 1-1 score. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) came up with double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds for Brazil. Their second scorers were Patricia De Oliveira (180-F/G-79) and Palmira Marcal (177-G-84) with 10 points each. On the other side, Canada got 10 points from Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88, college: Pepperdine). Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) was the second scorer in loss with only 6 points. Quarters: 8-8, 12-15, 9-23, 10-10. Brazil will play against Jamaica today. Canada will meet Paraguay.

*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


Standings - NF1 (Women) - by Eurobasket News
LF2 Standings
 1. Armentieres 2-0 
 2. Roche 2-0 
 3. Toulouse 2-0 
 4. Voiron 2-0 
 5. Perpignan 1-1 
 6. Le Havre 1-1 
 7. CFBB 1-1 
 8. COB Calais 1-1 
 9. LTB 29 1-1 
 10. Limoges 1-1 
 11. Dunkerque 0-2 
 12. Laveyron 0-2 
 13. Reims 0-2 
 14. SIG 0-2 


*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Kim SITZMANN
  Rotenbur.
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 35
 1. Sitzmann, Rotenbur.35.0 
 2. Cannon, Osnabruck31.0 
 3. Manakova, Saarl.23.0 
 4. Beld, Saarlouis23.0 
 5. Lomax, Freiburg22.0 
 6. Vaughn, Wasserburg22.0 
 7. Watson, Wolfenbu.20.0 
 8. Lowenthal, Rhein M.17.0 
 9. Rego, Donau-Ries17.0 
 10. Mankertz, Rotenbu.17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Janie BOS
  Rotenburg/Sch
  (185-F-88)
  Avg: 16
 1. Bos, Rotenburg/Sch16.0 
 2. Cannon, Osnabruck15.0 
 3. Porter-T., Wasse.12.0 
 4. Koop, Marburg10.0 
 5. Pace, Osnabruck10.0 
 6. Masek, Halle9.0 
 7. Richter, Donau-Ries9.0 
 8. Tracey, Freiburg9.0 
 9. Lomax, Freiburg8.0 
 10. Meissel, Chemnitz8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Amanda REGO
  Donau-Ries
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5
 1. Rego, Donau-Ries5.0 
 2. Pace, Osnabruck4.0 
 3. Nainima, Oberh.4.0 
 4. Mankertz, Rotenbur.3.0 
 5. Richter, Donau-Ries3.0 
 6. Davidson, Marburg3.0 
 7. Whitcomb, Chemnitz3.0 
 8. Beld, Saarlouis3.0 
 9. Hueske, Rotenbur.3.0 
 10. Ohanian, Wasse.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Yvonne TURNER
  Freiburg
  (174-G-87)
  Avg: 6
 1. Turner, Freiburg6.0 
 2. Pace, Osnabruck6.0 
 3. Jeltema, Chemnitz6.0 
 4. Tracey, Freiburg5.0 
 5. Austmann, Oberh.4.0 
 6. Lowenthal, Rhein M.4.0 
 7. Sitzmann, Rotenbur.4.0 
 8. Vaughn, Wasserburg3.0 
 9. Schnorr, Chemnitz3.0 
 10. Takacs, Rotenbur.3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sharon BELD
  Oberhausen
  (184-F-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Beld, Oberhausen2.0 
 2. Pace, Osnabruck1.0 
 3. Saponjic, Chemnitz1.0 
 4. Sitzmann, Rotenbur.1.0 
 5. Holtz, Rhein MB1.0 
 6. Tracey, Freiburg1.0 
 7. Bender, Oberhausen1.0 
 8. Mankertz, Rotenbur.1.0 
 9. Bos, Rotenburg/Sch1.0 
 10. Gross, Chemnitz0.0 


DBBL Round 1 results - by Eurobasket News
Halle - Wasserburg 45-68

TSV 1880 Wasserburg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to SV Halle Lions' 32. TSV 1880 Wasserburg forced 24 SV Halle Lions turnovers. American guard Krystal Vaughn (185-86, college: VCU, agency: LBM Management) stepped up and scored 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and her fellow American import guard Tiffany Porter-Talbert (175-84, college: W.Kentucky) chipped in 12 points and 12 rebounds. TSV 1880 Wasserburg's coach Hans Brei felt very confident using 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Slovakian guard Michaela Abelova (183-85) responded with 11 points and American power forward Ashley Ellis-Milan (188-87, college: Minnesota) scored 10 points.
Top scorers:
Wasserburg: K.Vaughn 22+5reb+1ast, T.Porter-Talbert 12+12reb+1ast, H.Ozen 6+2reb, J.Ohanian 6+1reb+3ast, S.Freeman 6+5reb, D.Adela Pop 4+4reb
Halle: M.Abelova 11+4reb, A.Ellis-Milan 10+4reb, A.Pierce 8+6reb, A.Heise 6+2reb+1ast, L.Hebecker 5+3reb+1ast, L.Masek 3+9reb
gschID: 131713


Rhein MB - Wolfenbuettel 69-66

Wildcats Wolfenbuettel was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 16-10 charge of Rhein Main Baskets, which allowed them to win the game. Guard Anna-lisa Rexroth (174-90) stepped up and scored 15 points for the winners and international forward Stephanie Wagner (181-90) chipped in 15 points. Rhein Main Baskets' coach Steffen Brockmann used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American guard Tenaya Watson (175-89, college: Arizona St.) responded with 20 points and international power forward Katharina Fikiel (193-87) scored 10 points.
Top scorers:
Rhein MB: B.Lowenthal 17, A.Rexroth 15+2reb, S.Wagner 15+2reb, J.Hatfield 6+1reb, S.Greunke 5+2reb, F.Pieczynski 4+4reb
Wolfenbuettel: T.Watson 20+3reb+2ast, K.Fikiel 10+4reb, N.Harris 10+3reb+1ast, L.Haughian 9+3reb+1ast, C.Callahan 7+4reb+1ast, I.Kulite 7+5reb+1ast
gschID: 131708


Oberhausen - Marburg 70-66 OT
gschID: 131709


Chemnitz - Freiburg 57-65

The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 65-57. Eisvogel Freiburg made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 29 ChemCats Chemnitz turnovers. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Judie Lomax (180-88, college: Columbia) stepped up and scored 22 points and 8 rebounds for the winners and guard Yvonne Turner (174-87, college: Nebraska) chipped in 13 points and 6 steals. At the losing side guard Samantha Whitcomb (178, college: Washington) responded with 12 points and 6 rebounds and guard Melissa Jeltema (175-88, college: Oakland) scored 17 points and 6 steals.
Top scorers:
Freiburg: J.Lomax 22+8reb+1ast, Y.Turner 13+3reb, C.Hoere 9, M.Paunovic 8+3reb+2ast, J.Tracey 5+9reb, S.Brunckhorst 2+1reb
Chemnitz: M.Jeltema 17+4reb, S.Whitcomb 12+6reb+3ast, S.Meissel 8+8reb, K.Brugman 6+3reb+1ast, N.Saponjic 4+6reb, M.Mihalyi 3
gschID: 131710


Osnabruck - Donau-Ries 62-64

Osnabrucker Panthers were trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 19-14 charge of Heli Donau-Ries, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Amanda Rego (170-86, college: San Diego) stepped up and scored 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and the former international guard Dorothea Richter (176-83) chipped in 12 points and 9 rebounds. At the losing side American forward Emma Cannon (188, college: Cent.Florida) responded with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 15 rebounds (made all of her ten free throws !!!) and the other American import guard Angela Pace (178-87, college: Robert Morris) scored 6 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals.
Top scorers:
Donau-Ries: A.Rego 17+8reb+5ast, M.Henderson 13+3reb, D.Richter 12+9reb+3ast, J.Sommer 9+2reb, F.Szittya 5, N.Djokovic 4+5reb+2ast
Osnabruck: E.Cannon 31+15reb, M.Dwyer 13+3reb, A.Pace 6+10reb+4ast, K.Williams 6+3reb, L.Vatthauer 4+1reb, N.Mossong 2+3reb
gschID: 131711


Rotenburg/Sch - Saarlouis 94-72

The game was mostly controlled by Rotenburg/Scheessel. TV Saarlouis Royals was better in second period 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rotenburg/Scheessel forced 23 TV Saarlouis Royals turnovers. TV Saarlouis Royals were plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Kim Sitzmann (178-88, college: UALR) stepped up and scored 35 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds for the winners and her fellow American import forward Janie Bos (185-88, college: Boise St.) chipped in 12 points and 16 rebounds. Four Rotenburg/Scheessel players scored in double figures. At the losing side Dutch guard Myrthe Beld (183-89) responded with 23 points and 7 rebounds and Czech power forward Petra Manakova (190-82, college: Oakland) scored 23 points and 7 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Rotenburg/Sch: K.Sitzmann 35+5reb, P.Mankertz 17+4reb+3ast, D.Clark 14+4reb, J.Bos 12+16reb, B.Hueske 8+1reb+3ast, E.lina Stach 4+1reb+1ast
Saarlouis: P.Manakova 23+7reb, M.Beld 23+7reb+3ast, C.Williams 14+5reb, K.Haefele 6+2reb, J.Meyer 2+2reb+1ast, L.Rahn 2+5reb+1ast
gschID: 131712




*****************************************************
  HOLLAND - Women  


CTO Amsterdam announced the roster - by Eurobasket News
CTO Amsterdam announced the roster for the upcoming season and just finished Halplus Cup.
In Day 1 Polish KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow rolled over CTO Amsterdam 112:70. The Polish side started strong and had 31-18 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moreover the champions won the second quarter 29-15 and easily reached the total success in the opener. Weaver top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Skobel as well as Kaczmarczyk added 13 each. Dzwigalska and Johnson notched 11 apiece, while Trebicka anf Nnamaka delivered 9 each.
In Day 2 Heli Donau-Ries registered the second win at the tournament beating CTO Amsterdam 88:66.
In Day 3 KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow outscored Heli Donau-Ries 73:56. Skobel and Weaver top-scored for the winners with 17 points each, whilst Nnamaka and Kaczmarczyk delivered 13 apiece. Halle Lions outscored CTO Amsterdam 66:62.




Dena Bandt

Lekdetec.nl



Jill Bettonvil (188-F-92)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Loyce Bettonvil (185-F-93)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Zera Butter (179-G-92)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Tessel van Dongen (175-PG-91)

BV Den Helder



Indya Duivenbode (184-F-94)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball & BV Hoofddorp U20



Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Tamlyn De Groot (186-C-91)

BV Den Helder



Rowie Jongeling

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Willemijn Kallenberg (176-G-93)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Richelle Van Der Keijl (196-C-93)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Eline Kraaijenoord (191-C-93)

STOL-Grasshoppers



Karin Kuijt (175-G-90)

STOL-Grasshoppers



Randell van der Lee (180-G-91)

STOL-Grasshoppers



Fieke Ligthart (184-F/C-90)

Lekdetec.nl



Tessa Rijnsburger (186-F/C-92)

Geen club ivm blessure



Lisa Schoen (187-F-94)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball & HLB Accountants U20



Isabella Schoen

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



Britt Zappeij (184-C-95)

CTO Amsterdam Vrouwenbasketball



(Roster Courtesy http://www.ctovrouwenbasketball.nl/)



Renes/Binnenland is ready for 2011/2012 season - by Eurobasket News
Renes/Binnenland is ready for 2011/2012 season as the team announced the roster for the season.
Natalie van den Adel, Eline Kasius, Jantine Kraak (193-C-89, college: W.Illinois), Linda Appers (184-F-85), Anneloes Kodde (183-F-88, college: W.Illinois), Priscilla van Andel, Danielle den Duijf (Teamarts), Michelle Zantman, Jorinde van Gent, Lisa Kuiper, Kirsten Boer, Michelle de Graaf, Launa Hochstetler (168-G-87, college: Valparaiso), Mandy Janssen, Rachel Roubehie-Fissa, Charlotte Kromhout (168-G-87), Lisa van den Adel, Tahnee Vogelsang (183-F-85), Nienke van Deijk, Ellen Appers (Scout).
Tahnee Vogelsang comes from AutoCAD Amazone Leidsche Rijn. In 2006-2008 she played already for Renes Binnenland (Eredivisie) and in the second season averaged 8.7ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 86.1%. In 2008-2010 moved to Woonbron/DAS Delft (Eredivisie) and last season started for Akides Ymuiden (Promotiedivisie). Then moved to AutoCAD Amazone Leidsche Rijn (Eredivisie) and after 20 games had 10.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 3.0apg, 3.7spg, 2FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 62.5%.
Linda Appers also is a newcomer and played for the team earlier. In 2006-2007 she was with Renes Binnenland (Eredivisie, starting five) and in 2007-2008 averaged 4.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.0spg. Last season she spent with Wereldtickets.nl BV Leiderdorp (Eredivisie) and in 19 games had 3.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg.


*****************************************************
  ITALY - Women  


Famila Schio triumphs at Citta di Camaiore - by Eurobasket News
Famila Schio triumphs at Citta di Camaiore beating Mura Lucca 59:57 in the Final game. Earlier the team overcame Lavezzini Parma 78:54.
Cras Taranto meanwhile overcame San Giovanni 83:64. They started with 28-16 and reached 49-23 at the halftime. Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) poured in 18 points and Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) as well as Pascalau had 12 each. Martina Crippa (175-G/F-88) posted 14 points in the losing case and Laura Summerton (191-C-83) added 12.
Club Atletico Faenza lost to Liomatic Umbertide 36:61. Tiffany Stansbury (191-F/C-83, college: N.Carolina St.) top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Jovanovic and Martinez posted 10 each. Marija Eric (164-G-83) delivered 11 points in the losing effort.

All the teams continue their preparation for the upcoming season.




Liomatic Umbertide keep Stansbury Tiffany and Jovanovic Milica - by Eurobasket News
Liomatic Umbertide keep Tiffany Stansbury (191-F/C-83, college: N.Carolina St.) and Milica Jovanovic (189-F/C-89) for the upcoming season. The foreign players started already the preparation for the upcoming season with the team.
Tiffany Stansbury came to the team last season and 2010-2011 after 27 games averaged 9.9ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.9spg, FGP: 49.8%, FT: 65.0%. She recorded 15 points at the Semi-Finals Game 3 when Familia Schio beat Umbertide 67-63. The best for the losing side was American power forward Tiffany Stansbury with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds.
Milica Jovanovic is a Montenegrin player who also joined the team last season. In Liomatic Umbertide 27 games she averaged 4.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.5spg. In her last game last season she poured in 12 points.


Costone Siena wins Memorial Massimo Carli - by Eurobasket News
Costone Siena wins Memorial Massimo Carli in Italy. At first the team overcame BF Pontedera 59-42. They started with 10-9 and then had 29-20 at the halftime. Lorenzo Barbucci (185-G) stepped up with 20 points and Betti posted 15. Buonaguidi finished the game with 12 points, while Dallarmi added 11.
The second game was a nightmare for PMA Perugia that scored only 15 points in the game. Costone Siena destroyed them 71-15. The favorites started with 25-3 and had 43-8 at the halftime. They reached 57-9 at the end of three quarters and easli won the game. Lorenzo Barbucci poured in 25 points for the winners and Nardi scored 12. Mencaroni produced 6 points in the losing effort.

Costone Siena - BF Pontedera 59-42 (10-9,29-20,56-37)
Costone: Roggi, Gallerini, Fusi, Zanchi 6, Furi 8, Lorenzo Barbucci 20, Dini 2, Nardi 8, Betti 15, Baldi. All. Fattorini V. All. Carli
Pontedera: Paoli 3, Dallarmi 11, Daddi 2, Pretini 2, Giani 7, Buonaguidi 12, Angiolini 3, Tacchi 2, Florio, Costagli, Masi, Ferretti, Vannini. All. Pianigiani V. All. Franceschini

Costone Siena - PMA Perugia 71-15 (25-3,43-8,57-9)
Costone: Roggi 2, Gallerini, Fusi 6, Pozzi 4, Zanchi 4, Furi 8, Lorenzo Barbucci 25, Dini 2, Nardi 12, Betti 8, Baldi. All. Fattorini, V. All. Carli
Perugia: Fallavollita 1, Mencaroni 6, Bucaneve 1, Stenico 5, Gallo 2, Gariazzo, Fiorucci, Pianegiani, Cecchini, Pascucci, Pardo, Moretti. All. Corbucci.
(Stats Courtesy www.legabasketfemminile.it)


*****************************************************
  JAMAICA - Women  


Jamaica keeps Mexico winless in Neiva - by Eurobasket News
JAMAICA - MEXICO 69-64

It was the first appearance for Jamaica in Neiva and they registered first win. Jamaica was better than Mexico 69-64 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Mexico dropped to 0-2 after this meeting. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 28 points and 9 rebounds. Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) scored 19 points and Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) added 13 points, plus 12 boards. Mexico got the most from Erika Gomez (187-F/C-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) - 21 points and 7 rebounds. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) delivered 16 points and was the last one with double-digits. Quarters: 20-9, 17-26, 18-18, 14-11. In Day Three, Jamaica will play against Brazil. Mexico will take a rest.

Jamaica: Vanessa Gidden 28+9 boards, Nicole Louden 19, Simone Edwards 13+12 boards
Mexico: Erika Gomez 21+7 boards, Brisa Silva 16

*****************************************************
  KOSOVO - Women  


Womens are abandoned! - by Dren Shporta
After the KB Prishtina stopped existing and Prishtina BC was established, the biggest reaction came from the KB Prishtina players. The team will no longer exist and the girls dont know what to do! The Prishtina BC officials said that they are not interested to have a women team for now.

One of the best former player, Resmie Juniku, have told the newspapers in Kosovo that she, can not believe that this is happening, regarding the non existence of the best women club in Kosovo history. As the beginning of the season is near, players should find another team and that should be done fast, if the Basketball Federation of Kosovo (FBK) would let them because the transfer window has ended.

One of the most successful womens basketball team in Kosovo, KB Universiteti years ago was part of Trocal league. They went to the semifinals there. Since 2007, they went under KB Prishtina umbrella and at this moment they do not exist as the team.


*****************************************************
  MALI - Women  


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mali edge Tunisia 69-45 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The quest by host of the 22nd edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women and 2007 champion of the continent biggest women basketball competition, Mali receive a boost Friday at the Stade du 26 Mars got off to a good start with a 69-45 points victory over Tunisia in her group-A opening game.

Spurred on by mercurial captain, Hamchetou Maiga the Malian won the first three quarters by 19-05, 17-12 and 20-13 before dropping the last quarter by 13-15 points to the FIBA Africa Zone-1 side.

Mali led it opponent on the board with 50 rebounds with 33 of them coming off her solid defense while Tunisia had 26 rebounds with Mali giving 10 assists to Tunisia 8.

Mali centre, Djeneba Cissoko led the floor with a double double effort of 15 points and 13 rebounds, Nassira Traore added 10 points with Nagnouma Coulibaly making a solid presence in defense with 10 rebounds to give victory to their side.


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Nigeria wins tight game against Cameroon 68-60 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria relied heavily on defense to wade-off the stiff challenge pose by Cameroon in a group-B game on Sunday at the 22nd Afrobasket for Women.

Nigeria who picked the second and third quarters by 20-10 and 13-11 points after tying the first quarter with her FIBA Africa Zone-4 strong side at 17 points apiece and lost the last quarter by 18-22 points showed better prowess on the board with 36 rebounds with the Lioness grabbing 34 rebounds, Nigeria was also slightly better on the offense with 12 assists to it opponent 7 for a final score-line of 68-60 points.

Head Coach of the Nigerian team, Ayo Bakare gave kudos to his Cameroonian counterpart for a job well-done.

Coach Bakare praised Coach Fabio Fossati of Cameroon for building a stronger and effective Cameroon team while applauding the performance of his players for fighting from the jump-ball to the buzzer.

I must commend the Cameroon side for giving us a very good fight it shows the man at the helm of its technical affair (Coach Fossati) has really put in a great effort to build such a solid team because in my close to twenty years of coach the Nigeria women national team I have never seen a Cameroon side that is so solid with great technical depth.

His Cameroonian counterpart, Coach Fossati congratulated the Nigeria team for the big win.

I must commend the Nigerian team who threw everything back at us as we strive to make a mark by breaking the jinx of being the first Cameroon side to beat Nigeria in a long while.

We try everything possible to break the Nigeria defense and stop their offense but their bench rose to the challenge to counter our plans, we have learnt great lessons from this lose and we hope to correct them in our next game against Angola on Monday.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mozambique keep clean slate beat Tunisia 69-53

Mozambique continues her unbeaten run in 22nd edition of Afrobasket for Women with a 69-53 points victory over Tunisia at the Pavillon des Sports Modibo Kaita Stadium, Bamako Mali.

The Mozambican opened a ten points lead going into the break with 35-25 points win (22-07, 13-18) having gained a comfortable 22-07 points lead in the first quarter Mozambique allowed the Tunisian to fight back strongly from the second quarter through the fourth quarter losing all three quarters by 13-18, 17-20 and 17-18 points but the rally to take hold of the game was not enough to see the Mozambican triumph at the end of the game.

Mozambique forward Leia Dongue posted another five-star performance with a double double effort of 18 points and 10 rebounds while her compatriot Deolinda Gimo added 13 points to give their a 3-0 recorded joining the likes of defending champion Senegal and host Mali to keet clean slate.

The FIBA Africa Zone-6 nations who seems to have learnt a great lesson after finishing fourth on home court at the 10th All Africa Games last month will observe Monday as rest day before filling out against host Mali on Tuesday in battle of wit at the Stade du 26 Mars at 18H00.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Senegal white-wash Guinea 99-32

Africa most crown women basketball nation, Senegal Sunday white-wash hapless Guinea by 99-32 points in a group-B pairing of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports, Modibo Kaita Stadium Bamako Mali.

The Lioness, ten-time Africa champion of the continent most cherished women basketball competition gave no room to the Guinean to operate as they dominated their opponent from the jump-ball to the buzzer winning in all four quarters by 29-06, 21-06, 20-14 and 21-06 to remain top of group-B.

Senegal who will take on Rwanda on Tuesday at the Pavillon des Sports was led by Aya Traore who poured in 20 points with Ndeye Ndiaye posted a double double effort of 12 points and 10 rebounds to help the Lioness maintain an hundred percent record.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Angola stops Rwanda 67-59

Angola today (Sunday) fought back to over-come first quarter challenge posed by Rwanda (08-21) to win the remaining three quarters by 15-11, 25-15 and 19-12 to pick her first group-B win by 67-59 points of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars, Bamako Mali.

The 10th All Africa Games silver medallist have to fall back on experience to earn its first win making the Rwandese to make several mistakes with excellent team work back by a bench that continue to urge the players to go all the way.

Angola forward Nacissela Mauricio led her team road to victory with 15 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, Nadir Manuel had 13 points and 3 rebounds with Sonia Guadalupe adding 12 points for their side win.

Angola will battle Cameroon Lioness on Monday at the Pavillon des Sports Modibo Kaita Stadium and step on court against Nigeria on Tuesday at the Stade du 26 Mars.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Mali too much for Ghana 95-30


Host of the 22nd edition of Afrobasket for Women Mali Sunday rode rough-shod over Ghana in a group-A game of the race to Africa sole direct ticket to London 2012 Olympic Games.

The Malian show no mercy as they pummelled Ghana in all four quarters by 21-06, 18-07, 27-05 and 29-12 to remain top of group-A and a secured place in the quarter-finals.

Mali forward Djene Diawara led the floor with a double double performance of 21 points and 11 rebounds, Djenebou Sissoko had 19 points and 3 rebounds while Nassira Traore added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to aid their side smooth run in the championship.

Mali like most other teams will observe tomorrow (Monday) as rest day while Ghana pays the prize of arriving late when they file out against Democratic Republic of Congo at 16H00 at the Pavillon des Sports, Modibo Kaita Stadium, Bamako.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: DR Congo pick first win over Cote dIvoire 59-54

Democratic Republic of Congo Sunday won a survival game over Cote dIvoire at the Stade du 26 Mar Bamako, Mali in a group-A tie of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women.

Coming from a first quarter loss of 15-22 the FIBA Africa Zone-4 side mounted ceaseless pressure on the Ivoirians which yielded little dividend as they tied the second quarter at 9 points apiece to go into the break with 8 points deficit of 24-32 points.

Upon resumption of action in the third quarter the Congolese spurred on by forward Makiete Mfutila who led the floor with 20 points and 3 rebounds out played Cote dIvoire in the quarter with an 18-12 points win to reduce the margin between it and the FIBA Africa Zone-3 side to just two points.

The fourth quarter however, produced some great moment for the DR Congo side who continued from where it stopped in the third quarter to over-come Cote dIvoire by 17-10 points for a final score-line of 59-54 points for her first win in the championship thus brightening it hope of making it to the quarter-finals.



Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Nigeria run-off Guinea 60-31 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria rose from the defeat to Senegal on Friday to humble Guinea by 60-31 points to keep of making it to the last-eight alive.

Nigeria showed lots of promise in its tie against Guinea out-playing the first host of the Africa championship in all department of the game winning all four quarters by 21-06, 16-12, 08-07 and 15-06 respectively while it out-rebounded the Guinean with 46 rebounds to 33, 9 assists to 7 and 4 block-shots to nil.

Nigeria forward Rashidat Sadiq led her team in scoring with 15 points while centre Adeola Wylie grabbed 11 rebounds with home-girl Nkechi Akashili having two blocks.

Nigeria will play Cameroon at 14H00 on Championship Day-3 at the Stade du 26 Mars while Guinea will battle defending champion Senegal at 16H00 at the Pavillon des Sports.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Cote dIvoire in losing steak, bow to Mali 44-57

Cote dIvoire loses a second straight game Saturday to host Mali in a group-A pairing of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars.

The Ivorian who forced an over-time in her first lose to Mozambique on Friday at the Pavillon des Sports on Friday could not withstand the foray of the 2007 champion as it lost in four quarters by 12-14, 12-14, 10-16 and 10-13 for a cumulative score-line of 44-57 points.

Mali forward Djenebou Sissoko led the floor with 14 points, 9 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 assists with Meiya Tirera pouring in 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists to help their keep a clean slate in group-A.

Cote dIvoire continues search for a winning formula will see it take on Democratic Republic of Congo at 20H00 on Sunday at the Stade du 26 Mars.

Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Angola chicken-out to Senegal 42-63

Angola opened her group-B campaign of the 22nd Afrobasket for Women Saturday at the Stade du 26 Mars with a 42-63 points lose to defending champion Senegal after putting up a good fight in the first half of the epic battle (26-32).

The Angolan lost the first quarter by 08-17 points but fought back to pick the second by 18-15 to narrow the margin to just six points going into the break only to chicken-out in the third and fourth quarters losing both quarters by 07-17 and 09-14 points to end proceeding at 42-63 points.

Angola also gave up the fight for the board to the Lioness by 22 rebounds to 36 and 3 assists to Senegal 13 with any of its players grossing a double digit scores.

Senegal Astou Traore led other players on court with 13 points and 5 rebounds as the reigning queen of Africa hoops look set to devour Guinea in Day-3 of the championship on Sunday with an eye on the continent sole direct London 2012 Olympic Games ticket in her sight Senegal sure knows that underrating the Guinean might spell doom for her and skipper Aya Traore has declared a no-mercy battle against Guinea when both sides clash at the Pavillon des Sports.



*****************************************************
  MEXICO - Women  


Jamaica keeps Mexico winless in Neiva - by Eurobasket News
JAMAICA - MEXICO 69-64

It was the first appearance for Jamaica in Neiva and they registered first win. Jamaica was better than Mexico 69-64 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Mexico dropped to 0-2 after this meeting. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) was totally the best player in victory as she collected 28 points and 9 rebounds. Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) scored 19 points and Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) added 13 points, plus 12 boards. Mexico got the most from Erika Gomez (187-F/C-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) - 21 points and 7 rebounds. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) delivered 16 points and was the last one with double-digits. Quarters: 20-9, 17-26, 18-18, 14-11. In Day Three, Jamaica will play against Brazil. Mexico will take a rest.

Jamaica: Vanessa Gidden 28+9 boards, Nicole Louden 19, Simone Edwards 13+12 boards
Mexico: Erika Gomez 21+7 boards, Brisa Silva 16

*****************************************************
  MOZAMBIQUE - Women  


22nd Afrobasket for Women: Cote dIvoire loses to Mozambique 65-69 OT - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After going off to a first quarter win of 15-11 points Cote dIvoire loses to resilient Mozambican side by 65-69 points at Over-time with enterprising Mozambican point guard Ngulela Deolinda combining beautifully with experience forward Ana Flavia Azinheira who scored 6 of her 9 points in the over-time to help see off the Ivorian challenge.

Mozambique took the second, third and over-time quarters leaving Cote dIvoire to pick the first and fourth quarters (15-11, 12-16, 15-19, 16-12 and 07-11).

Mozambique was ahead by one point with three seconds left in the fourth quarter when Cote dIvoire forward Christelle Ngarsanet was fouled while attempting a lay-up and the referee called for a two free throws with her making one of the two shot to force an over-time with scores at 58 points apiece.

Cote dIvoire an early initiative at the resumption of the five minutes over-time through Stehpanie Ngarsanet but the combination of Deolinda, Azinheira and Dongue earn the Mozambican a hard earned victory of 69-65 points in group-A opening game of the 2011 Afrobasket for Women.

Unassuming Mozambican forward Leia Dongue had a double double of 13 points and 12 rebounds to seal victory for her side.


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA - Women  


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: DR Congo bow to Mozambique 55-76 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The hope of three time champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women, Democratic Republic of Congo of making a bold return to the big stage of Africa basketball was dashed Saturday by Mozambique in a group-A game of the 22nd edition of Africa flagship women competition The Afrobasket for Women at the Stade du 26 Mars Bamako, Mali.

The former champion lost in all four quarters by 17-25, 12-18, 15=17 and 11-16 to go bow to the superior fire power of the Deolinda Ngulela powered Mozambican side by 55-76 points.

Ngulela who scored 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds was at her element as she marshalled the point guard position with excellent court vision of the her team to pick a second win.

Mozambique forward Leia Dongue led her team in a second straight game with 19 points and 8 rebounds while the duo of Valerdina Man honga and Catia Micato added 12 and 10 points to earn a well-deserved win for their side.

DR Congo will take on Cote dIvoire at 20H00 at the Stade du 26 Mars on Sunday while Mozambique will keep a date against Ghana who failed to honour its opening group-A game against Tunisia on Saturday.


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  OCEANIA CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


U17 Oceania Championship: Australia edge New Zealand three times in a row - by Eurobasket News
Australian U17 National Team qualified for U17 World Championship. They swept the Oceania Championship series versus New Zealand. The Aussies finished the series with a 52:33 success. Lauren Scherf posted 12 points to pace the winners. Australia trailed by a single point at the first break 8:9. They stepped on the gas and established a 25:18 halftime lead. Australia cleared off in the third term. They outscored their opponents 19:5 in the period to enter the fourth frame up by as many as 21 points. New Zealand limited the Aussie team to just 8 points in the final term but never threatened the margin after all. Louise Brown provided 11 points, while Alicia Froling posted 10 points in the winning effort. Deena Franklin responded with 8 points for New Zealand. Stella Beck notched 7 points in the loss.

Game 1: Australia vs. New Zealand 70:52
Game 2: Australia vs. New Zealand 75:50
Game 3: Australia vs. New Zealand 52:33


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  POLAND - Women  


Gorzow triumphs at Halplus Cup - by Eurobasket News
Gorzow triumphs at Halplus Cup with 4 partiicpated teams. In Day 1 KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow rolled over CTO Amsterdam 112:70 . The Polish side started strong and had 31-18 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moreover the champions won the second quarter 29-15 and easily reached the total success in the opener. Lyndra Weaver (185-F-87, college: Virginia) top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) as well as Kaczmarczyk added 13 each. Dzwigalska and Johnson notched 11 apiece, while Claudia Trebicka (175-G/F-90) anf Chioma Nnamaka (183-G-85, college: Georgia Tech) delivered 9 each.
Halle Lions lost to Heli Donau-Ries 57:67.
In Day 2 Heli Donau-Ries registered the second win at the tournament beating CTO Amsterdam 88:66.
KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow won over Halle Lions 64:63. It was a real thriller in the court. The champions started the game with 19-15 and even won the second period 17-13. The second half however belonged to the German team that celebrated the victories in both quarters. It was not enough to win the game as the board showed 64:63 after the final whistle. Agnieszka Skobel stepped up with 15 points and Lyndra Weaver notched 12.
In Day 3 KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow outscored Heli Donau-Ries 73:56. Agnieszka Skobel and Lyndra Weaver top-scored for the winners with 17 points each, whilst Chioma Nnamaka and Kaczmarczyk delivered 13 apiece.
Halle Lions outscored CTO Amsterdam 66:62.


Lotos Gdynia won 'Zawsze z mistrzem' 8-teams campaign - by Eurobasket News
Lotos Gdynia won Zawsze z mistrzem 8-teams campaign. The team won over Wisla Can-Pack Krakow 79:54 in the Final Game. The winners took 24-11 and added 25-13 for the massive lead after the first two quarters. Lotos also won the third quarter, while Wisla had 20-18 in the last stanza. Jolene Anderson (173-G-86, college: Wisconsin) top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Henry notched 20. Jalcova followed them with 10, while Robert and Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) had 6 each. Katarzyna Krezel (184-F/G-85, college: UTEP) ended up with 16 points for Wisla.
In the game for the third place LKS Siemiens AGD Lodz overcame Widzew Lodz 74:56. Stephanie Raymond (170-PG-85, college: N.Illinois) poured in 21 points, while Katarzyna Kenig (185-F-79) scored 12. Jankowska delivered 21 points in the losing effort.
Tecza Leszno lost to KK ROW Rybnik 72:89 in the game for the 5th place, while MUKS Poznan rolled over Language School Pabainice 58:46 in the game for the 7th place.

Final:
Wisla Can-Pack Krakow - Lotos Gdynia 54:79 (11:24, 13:25, 10:12, 20:18)
Wisla: Katarzyna Krezel 16, de Mondt 12, Ujhelyi 11, Dabovic 4, Czarnecka 4, nieek 3, Bjelica 2, Pawlak 2, Nwik 0, Wjtowicz 0.
Lotos: Jolene Anderson 25, Henry 20, Jalcova 10, Robert 6, urowska 6, Bandyk 4, Ajanovic 4, Knezevic 2, Zitara 2, Plumbi 0, Duraj 0.
3rd place
LKS Siemiens AGD Lodz Widzew Lodz 74:56 (16:18, 15:12, 25:18, 18:8)
KS: Stephanie Raymond 21, Katarzyna Kenig 12, Trofimowa 9, Hoewisch 9, Dalembert 8, Prochalska 6, Jeziorna 5, Bofia Balana 4, Schmidt 0, Kowalska 0.
Widzew: Jankowska 21, Tondel 6, Pawlak 6, Trojanowska 6, Kopczyk 5, Misiek 4, Kotonowicz 4, Gocka 2, Polit 2, Maaszewska 0, Okulska 0.
5th place
Tecza Leszno - KK ROW Rybnik 72:89 (16:20, 23:20, 10:22, 23:27)
7th place
MUKS Poznan Language School Pabainice 58:46 (15:13, 8:10, 19:10, 16:13)
MUKS: Whate 20, Magdalena Koperwas (177-G/F-93) 17, Makowska 11, Durak 8, Owczarzak 2, Najtkowska 0, Idziorek 0, Tanasiejczuk 0, Szarzynska 0.
Pabianice: Bogacka 12, Baszczyk 10, Salska 10, Sobczyk 4, Rozwandowicz 3, Parus 3, Piestrzynska 2, Wodarek 2, Krajewska 0, Szaecka J. 0, Szulc 0, Pietrzak 0.
(Stats Courtesy of:http://www.plkk.pl)

Krystal Ellis joined Artego Bydgoszcz - by Eurobasket News
Krystal Ellis (178-G-87, college: Marquette) joined Artego Bydgoszcz for the upcoming season. In 2010-2011 the American player spent for Valur Reykjavik (Iceland-D1, starting five).
UMMC meanwhile won Malgorzaty Dydek Memorial.
UMMC won over Energa Torun 81:60 in the opener. The Russian team started the game with 34-15 and controlled the rest of the game. The Polish team however limited them to just 6 points in the last period to reduce to 21 at the end. Sandrine Gruda stepped up with 22 points and Anete Jekabsone netted 15. Maria Stepanova scored 12, while Deanna Nolan added 11. Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) replied with 18 points in defeat and Leah Metcalf added 13.
Artego Bydgoszcz lost to Nadezhda Orenburg 42:70. The Russian team opened the game with 20-6 and looked better also in the entire game. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) poured in 12 points for the winners and Katerina Snytsina added 9. Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) and Ekatarina Ruzanova followed them with 8 points apiece. Kristal Ellis netted 12 points in the losing effort.
In Day 2 Energa Torun overcame Artego Bydgoszcz 76:69. Jelena Maksimovic top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Szczechowiak added 19. Kulaga scored 20 points in the losing case.
UMMC edged Nadezhda Orenburg 61:50. Jekabsone stepped up with 16 points and Gruda posted 14. Elena Danilochkina delivered 18 points in the losing effort.
Energa Torun lost to Nadezhda Orenburg 60:77 in the last day/ UMMC rolled over Artego Bydgoszcz 95:48. Jekabsone top-scored for the winners with 20 points.



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  PUERTO RICO - Women  


Puerto Rico outguns Colombia for the first win - by Eurobasket News
COLOMBIA - PUERTO RICO 46-68

First victory for Puerto Rico in Neiva. They handed 46-68 loss to the hosts of FIBA Americas Championship 2011 - Colombia. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Preliminary Group A. Cynthia Valentin (173-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) exploded in victory with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Marie Placido (181-F-87) and Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) added 11 and 10 points. They also had 9 and 7 rebounds respectively. On the other side, Colombia got 13 points and 8 assists from Erika Valek (168-G-82, college: Purdue). Elena Diaz (185-F-83, college: Nebraska) delivered 10 points. Quarters: 4-20, 22-16, 11-17, 9-15. Puerto Rico will take on Argentina today. Colombia will play against Cuba.

Colombia: Erika Valek 13+8 as, Elena Diaz 10
Puerto Rico: Cynthia Valentin 24+5 boards, Marie Placido 11+9 boards, Jazmine Sepulveda 10+7 boards

Standings - Women
BSNF Standings
 1. Morovis M. 10-1 
 2. Juncos V. 7-3 
 3. San German 7-4 
 4. Carolina G. 5-3 
 5. Ponce L. 5-8 
 6. Guaynabo M. 4-6 
 7. San Juan W. 3-7 
 8. Aguas B.T. 1-10 


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  ROMANIA - Women  


Korinne Campbell replaced Rhaya Neabors - by Eurobasket News
Korinne Campbell (182-G/F-88, college: W.Virginia) replaced Rhaya Neabors (181-F-88, college: Cal-Riverside) in ICIM Arad for this season. The latter could not make it to the squad due to some reasons and Arad needed to find another player that became Korinne.
Earlier it was written that Rhaya Neabors was set to start her professional basketball career. She headed to Romania from the University of California, Riverside, where she graduated few months ago. Neabors appeared 31 times for her school as a senior averaging 10.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists. She was named All-Big West Honorable Mention -11.
Korinne Campbell started her career for Minnesota (NCAA) and in her first season averaged 6.4ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 38.5%, FT: 42.0%. In 2008-2009 moved to W.Virginia (NCAA). The last season there her stats read 5.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 35.2%, 3PT: 18.6%, FT: 61.0%.


Romanian Cup. Quarterfinal openers - by Eurobasket News
CSM Targoviste won over CSM Satu Mare 61:60. The winners got 17-13 after the first period, but needed the victories in the third and the last quarters after 9-21 in the second period. Chrissy Givens (180-F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) and Diacona top-scored for the winners with 13 points each, while Olena Zherzerunova added 10 and 12 rebounds. Claudia Pop (185-F-89) replied with 21 points in the losing effort and Monica Ivan Urse notched 13.
BC LMK Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe needed the same result to beat CS Rapid Bucuresti. Moniquee Alexander (198-C-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: UCLA) top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Ildiko Vass (178-G-78) notched 12. Cristina Perta responded with 22 points and 10 boards in defeat and Raluca Ungureanu had 15.
ICIM Arad did not have any difficulties over CST BC Alexandria beating them 68:40. Stanecia Graham (186-F-86, college: Washburn) stepped up with 18 points and Korinne Campbell posted 16. Kari Laplante replied with 16 points in the losing effort.
CSM Bucuresti Sportul Studentesc edged Universitatea Cluj-Napoca 92:56. Gaati Werema (183-G-88, college: Prairie View A&M) poured in 22 points to lead the charge.


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  RUSSIA - Women  


UMMC wins Malgorzaty Dydek Memorial - by Eurobasket News
UMMC wins Malgorzaty Dydek Memorial with 4 teams participated.
UMMC won over Energa Torun 81:60 in the opener. The Russian team started the game with 34-15 and controlled the rest of the game. The Polish team however limited them to just 6 points in the last period to reduce to 21 at the end. Sandrine Gruda stepped up with 22 points and Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) netted 15. Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) scored 12, while Deanna Nolan added 11. Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) replied with 18 points in defeat and Leah Metcalf (173-G-83, college: N.Carolina) added 13.
Artego Bydgoszcz lost to Nadezhda Orenburg 42:70. The Russian team opened the game with 20-6 and looked better also in the entire game. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) poured in 12 points for the winners and Katerina Snytsina added 9. Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) and Ekatarina Ruzanova followed them with 8 points apiece. Kristal Ellis netted 12 points in the losing effort.
In Day 2 Energa Torun overcame Artego Bydgoszcz 76:69. Jelena Maksimovic top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Szczechowiak added 19. Kulaga scored 20 points in the losing case.
UMMC edged Nadezhda Orenburg 61:50. Jekabsone stepped up with 16 points and Gruda posted 14. Elena Danilochkina delivered 18 points in the losing effort.
Energa Torun lost to Nadezhda Orenburg 60:77 in the last day/ UMMC rolled over Artego Bydgoszcz 95:48. Jekabsone top-scored for the winners with 20 points.
Anete Jekabsone-Zogota became the MVP of the Tournament.


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  RWANDA - Women  


22nd Afrobasket for Women: Rwanda punish Guinea 69-35 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Rwanda seems to have behind it the not too impressive performance at the just concluded 10th All Africa Games in Mozambique as it open her 22nd edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women with a resounding 69-35 points victory over hapless Guinea.

The Rwandese who out played the Guinean in all department of the opening game of the Bamako, Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women at the Pavillon des Sports winning in all four quarters by 28-11, 15-09, 17-10 and 09-05 were also the better side on the board grabbing 44 rebounds to Guinea 22, 11 steals to Guinea 4 and 10 assists to Guinea 8.

The FIBA Africa Zone-5 side was led in scoring by Tierra Kabarebe who had 22 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals with Honoree Amibare contributing 18 points 4 assists and 3 rebounds for their side win.

Rwanda coach, Amonovic Nenad attributed his side win to the competitive level of the 10th All Africa Games to their win.

Coach Nenad says his mission in Bamako, Mali is to take each game as it comes.

Yes we won easily against Guinea but I must commend my players and also the tough nature of the 10th All Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique couple with the fact that we know little about Guinea before the jump-ball.

I think it is too early to talk of qualifying for the quarter final as we hope to go along with our game plan of taking each game as they come.


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  SENEGAL - Women  


Mali 2011 Afrobasket for Women: Senegal sees off Nigeria 86-62 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women Senegal Friday confirm its rating as a true champion with an emphatic 86-62 points victory over Nigeria in a group-B game of the 22nd edition of the competition at the Stade du 26 Mars, Bamako Mali.

Senegal won the first, third and fourth quarters by 22-16, 18-10 and 27-17 while it shared the second quarter with Nigeria at 19 points apiece.

Senegal Astou Traore led her team with 17 points and 6 rebounds, captain Aya Traore poured in 16 points and grabbed 3 rebounds with the duo of Ndeye Sene and Oumou Sarr contributed 12 and 10 points to give their side an opening group-B win over Nigeria.

Senegal will take to the floor against Angola on match Day-2 with Nigeria going up against Guinea. Ghana will slug out with Tunisia. Cote dIvoire battles host Mali. Democratic Republic of Congo will take to the court of State du 26 Mars against Mozambique while Cameroon and Rwanda will entertain the crowd at the Pavillon.


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  SERBIA - Women  


Galatasaray lands Serbian PF/C Ivanka Matic - by Eurobasket News
Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management) is a new member of Galatasaray M.P. Istanbul. The Serbian power forward/center penned a deal for the upcoming season. Matic heads to Galata from France, where she spent 2010/11. She appeared 27 times for Tarbes in LFB averaging 9.9 points and 7 rebounds. Tarbes reached LFB Finals. They also competed in Euroleague, where Matic added 11.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 8 games. Before Tarbes, Ivanka Matic spent half of the season with Challes. In 2007, she won the Euroleague title with Spartak Moscow Region. Matic played for Crvena Zvezda, USK Praha, Perfumerias and Mondeville in the past. She is active member of the Serbian National Teams since 2005.

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


MBK Ruzomberok finishes second - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok finishes second at the International Tournament in Poland. The team from Slovakia lost the Final to CCC Polkowice that actually was beaten in Day 1.
MBK Ruzomberok rolled over CCC Polkowice 62:54 in the opener. The teams were tied at 47:47, while MBK Ruzomberok played better in the second half. Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) top-scored with 17 points and Ann Andersson (183-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) posted 16.
In Day 2 MBK Ruzomberok overcame KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow Wlkp 67:53. The Slovakian team led 41-40 at the halftime and increased to 14 points at the end of the game. Tetemondova poured in 20 points to lead the charge. Ann Andersson netted 12 and Dominika Baburova (183-F-91)ova posted 10.
In the Final game CCC Polkowice edged MBK Ruzomberok 77:56. The winners started with 16-8 and led the entire game. Frazee paced all the winners with 12 points, while Musina netted 11 and Maltsi scored 10. Carmen Guzman and Kamila Stepanova (193-C-88) delivered 8 points each in a loss.



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  SPAIN - Women  


Uni CajaCanarias lands Bosnian C Dragana Svitlica - by Eurobasket News
Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) will stay in Spain for at least one more season. The Bosnian center penned a deal with Club Baloncesto Uni CajaCanarias. Svitlica heads to her new club from Celta Vigo, where she spent last four seasons. In the latest one she averaged 3.5 points and 2.6 rebounds for 25 games. She had almost the same numbers in 2009/10. Dragana Svitlica moved to Spain in 2007. She played for the Bosnian squad Mladi Krajisnik before that. From 2004 to 2008, Dragana Svitlica played for the Bosnian National Team. She had 5 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 7 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2009. In the past, she also played for U18 Bosnia.

Jopisa Burgos add Anna Pokoiova - by Eurobasket News
Jopisa Burgos add Anna Pokoiova (188-F-87, agency: Promotex) for the upcoming season as the Ukrainian player already started pre-season campaigns with the team.
In 2010-2011 she started for Hatis Yerevan (Armenia-D1, starting five) and in EuroCup averaged 9.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 55.6%. In Apr.'11 moved to Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye (UPBL, starting five) and after 14 games had 13.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 73.9%.
For the national team Anna Pokoiova recorded 13 points at the European Championships Pre-Qualifying Round Day 5. Ukraine finished AQT with 76-82 victory over Finland. Olena Zherzherunova shined for the winners with double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds. Aleksandra Khomenchuk had 19 points and 7 boards, while Anna Pokoiova added 13 pts and 5 rebs.
In Ukraine she wrapped up the season with 26 points against Frankivsk. She was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian UPBL Forward of the year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian UPBL 1st Team: -11, Eurobasket.com Ukrainian UPBL All-Domestic Players Team -11, Ukrainian UPBL Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and reached Ukrainian UPBL Semifinals -11.


Hondarribia-Irun annlounced Sandra Ygueravide and Amaya Gastaminza - by Eurobasket News
Hondarribia-Irun annlounced Sandra Ygueravide (172-PG-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Amaya Gastaminza (189-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Oregon St.) as the players already participate for the team in pre-season.
Sandra Ygueravide is a Spanish Point Guard who played mostly for Estudiantes Madrid since 2006. Last season after 29 games she averaged 7.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.4apg, 2.7spg, 2FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 67.2%.
Amaya Gastaminza started her career for Segle XXI (LF2, starting five) and in 28 games averaged 9.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 5.0%, FT: 69.0%. In 2009-2010 she moved to Oregon St. (NCAA) but did not play: DNP
The season 2010-2011 started for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca (LFB) and in Euroleague showed 1.4ppg. In Spanish League her stats read 1.7ppg, 1.7rpg.
Together with the team Sandra Ygueravide became Euroleague Champion -11, Spanish LFB Supercup Winner -11, Spanish LFB Regular Season Champion -11 and Spanish LFB Champion -11.


Rivas Ecopolis and El Hondarribia Irun won the latest games - by Eurobasket News
Rivas Ecopolis and El Hondarribia Irun won the latest games of the pre-season. Rivas Ecopolis again beat Perfumerias Avenida 57:53. Iva Sliskovic (194-F-84, college: S.Carolina) stepped up with 15 points and Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) netted 13. Nicholls scored 11, while Bermejo posted 7. Fernandez ended up with 21 points and Xargay added 13.
El Hondarribia Irun outscored Jopisa Burgos 77:64. The team were tied at 15 points after the first as well as with 30:30 at the halftime. The third quarter became decisive in the game as Irun grabbed 62:45 after productive 10 minutes. Thania Quintero (178-F-80) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Laura Garcia notched 15. Amaya Gastaminza (189-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Oregon St.) and Laura Gil followed them with 14 points apiece. Lorena Infantes (171-PG-81) stepped up with 15 points for Burgos and Anna Pokoiova (188-F-87, agency: Promotex) as well as Celia Menndez added 11 each.


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  TURKEY - Women  


Galatasaray lands Serbian PF/C Ivanka Matic - by Eurobasket News
Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management) is a new member of Galatasaray M.P. Istanbul. The Serbian power forward/center penned a deal for the upcoming season. Matic heads to Galata from France, where she spent 2010/11. She appeared 27 times for Tarbes in LFB averaging 9.9 points and 7 rebounds. Tarbes reached LFB Finals. They also competed in Euroleague, where Matic added 11.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 8 games. Before Tarbes, Ivanka Matic spent half of the season with Challes. In 2007, she won the Euroleague title with Spartak Moscow Region. Matic played for Crvena Zvezda, USK Praha, Perfumerias and Mondeville in the past. She is active member of the Serbian National Teams since 2005.

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Jopisa Burgos add Anna Pokoiova - by Eurobasket News
Jopisa Burgos add Anna Pokoiova (188-F-87, agency: Promotex) for the upcoming season as the Ukrainian player already started pre-season campaigns with the team.
In 2010-2011 she started for Hatis Yerevan (Armenia-D1, starting five) and in EuroCup averaged 9.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 55.6%. In Apr.'11 moved to Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye (UPBL, starting five) and after 14 games had 13.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 73.9%.
For the national team Anna Pokoiova recorded 13 points at the European Championships Pre-Qualifying Round Day 5. Ukraine finished AQT with 76-82 victory over Finland. Olena Zherzherunova shined for the winners with double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds. Aleksandra Khomenchuk had 19 points and 7 boards, while Anna Pokoiova added 13 pts and 5 rebs.
In Ukraine she wrapped up the season with 26 points against Frankivsk. She was named Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian UPBL Forward of the year -11, Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian UPBL 1st Team: -11, Eurobasket.com Ukrainian UPBL All-Domestic Players Team -11, Ukrainian UPBL Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and reached Ukrainian UPBL Semifinals -11.


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  WNBA - Women  


WNBA Finals schedule - by Eurobasket News
WNBA PLAYOFFS


WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
lynx DEF. phoenix mercury 2-0

Game 1: Lynx 95, Phoenix 67

Game 2: Lynx 103, Phoenix 86


EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS INDIANA FEVER, ATLANTA DREAM TIED 1-1

Game 1: Indiana 82, Atlanta 74

Game 2: Atlanta 94, Indiana 77

Tuesday: Game 3 at Indiana, 7 pm (ESPN2)


WNBA FINALS LYNX VS. ATLANTA OR INDIANA
(All games on ESPN2)
Sunday: at Lynx, 7:30 pm
Wednesday, Oct. 5: at Lynx, 7 pm
Friday, Oct. 7: at Atlanta/Indiana, 7 pm
Sunday, Oct. 9: at Atlanta/Indiana, 3 pm (if nec.)
Wednesday, Oct. 12: at Lynx, 7 pm (if nec.)

Courtesy of www.startribune.com



Players celebrate behind scenes after Lynx advance to WNBA finals - by Eurobasket News
Taj McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-F/C-70, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: St.Edward's) suffered an undisclosed injury in practice Saturday morning.

She said as much on Sunday when she appeared before the media after the Lynx's 103-86 victory over Phoenix. A victory which put the once stumbling and bumbling franchise in the WNBA finals.

Was she kidding? Maybe. Was it minor? A more likely scenario. Did it effect her against Phoenix? Nope, that's definite.

The 6-foot-2 mother of three from San Antonio probably played her best game of the season at US Airways Center. She had 21 points and seven assists, both season highs, and six rebounds. Add a block, too. Not bad for a player who turns 41 next month.

Maya Moore, about as old as Taj's two oldest daughters, made six of eight three-pointers and also had 21 points. She's done better in Phoenix. She was six of six on threes -- tying a WNBA record -- one game there this season. But nobody is complaining about her latest effort.

There were 16 lead changes and the score was tied seven times before the Lynx pulled away at the end.

After the final horn, the Lynx headed for what seemed to be a practice gym near the main court to get a trophy from WNBA prez Laurel Richie. They all got a cap that said Western Conference champions or something like that. They danced, they sang and then they rushed to the airport to catch a flight home.

If the Lynx had lost, they didn't want to travel on Monday, the day before the big showdown game on Tuesday. But now there is none. The Lynx won their best-of-three Western Conference finals series in two.

Once again they have proved they are the best team in the West. They are 2-0 against Atlanta and 1-1 versus Indiana, the two teams who will play Tuesdau to decide an Eastern Conference champion.

The Lynx can relax and watch.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Moore credits coaches, veterans for Lynx's success - by Eurobasket News
Lynx players danced and sang after a brief off-court awards ceremony on Sunday. League president Laurel Richie presented them a trophy for winning the Western Conference title. They all got caps, too, recognizing their accomplishment.

'I have a great team around me,' said rookie forward Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut), interviewed on the scene. 'They are always talking to me, trying to encourage me, telling me different things to try to get an advantage. And I just try to work my hardest for them.

Asked how the Lynx could beat a Phoenix team loaded with veterans who had won WNBA titles in 2007 and 2009, Moorse said, 'It starts from the top. Our coaching staff, they do a great job of making us prepared. Our scouting books. They challenge us, makng sure that we know -- it's books plural. [Lots of laughter.] They work so hard for us. Doing whatever they have to do to make sure we are prepared.

'And then our vets, our leaders. They come in and know what they are doing. They come in and set the bar. No mistakes from them and then it trinkles on down to the rest of us. It just is really a team effort. And when you prepare that way you can't help but be confident.'


TIGHTENING THE SCREWS

'In the second half we defended much better,' Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said. 'We weren't happy in the first half with our defense. And we picked it up and we got rebounds. And we got some confidence on offense.'

The Lynx trailed 45-43 at halftime, but outscored the Mercury 27-20 in the third quarter and 33-21 in the fourth to pull ahead.


REEVE SAYS

On Taj McWilliams-Franklin: 'Taj is amazing to be the oldest player out there. She is just so smart. She plays on angles, she knows what is exactly happening. There isn't anything she hasn't seen after all these years. She remains poised. My goodness, 21 [points] and seven assists and six rebounds. Just impressive. She is a warrior and I am really happy for her she is back in the finals.'

On Maya Moore's six three-pointers: 'We found Maya in easy opportunities because with our team you have to pick your poison. There was a lot of effort made on Seimone [Augustus]. Seimone was very tested, very challenged. As a results of that we were able to get other people involved. Whether it was Taj or someone like Maya who we found off of help defense, off of rotations. And she made shots. That is what she is paid to do. I was happy the rookie came through.'

On Lynx's defense: 'We were tough, we were really tough. We got some deflections, we forced some shots.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com



Dream beat Fever 94-77 in Game Two (1-1), Lynx beat Mercury 103-86 to reach WNBA finals for 1st time - by Eurobasket News
East
Atlanta D. - Indiana F. 94-77
Iziane Castro Marques (6'0''-G/F-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) moved into Atlanta's starting lineup and scored a season-high 30 points as the Dream beat the Indiana Fever 94-77 on Sunday to even the Eastern Conference finals. Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) had 27 points for Atlanta, which thrived in Game 2 with a small lineup made necessary when starting center Erika De Souza (6'6''-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) left to play for Brazil in an Olympics qualifying tournament in Colombia. The deciding Game 3 in the best-of-three series will be played Tuesday at Indianapolis. WNBA MVP Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) had only eight points, 7 below her average, before hurting her right foot and leaving with 4:54 remaining. Catchings suffered the injury when she landed on Alison Bales' foot when attempting to defend Bales' shot. Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) made five 3-pointers and led Indiana with 25 points. *Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

West
Phoenix M. - Minnesota L. 86-103
Taj McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-F/C-70, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: St.Edward's) had 21 points, six rebounds and seven assists to lead the Minnesota Lynx past the Phoenix Mercury 103-86 Sunday to advance to the WNBA finals for the first time. Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) had 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Minnesota, which needed three games to eliminate San Antonio in the first round before sweeping the Mercury in the Western Conference finals. The Lynx await the winner of the Indiana-Atlanta series that will be decided on Tuesday night. The final series begins Oct. 2 in Minnesota, which had the league's best record in the regular season. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) had 22 points for the Mercury, who were swept in the West finals by eventual champion Seattle a year ago. *Courtesy of www.wdbj7.com