Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/10/2012

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Men News

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ABA

Colorado Kings continue to hold #1 position in ABA Power Rankings - by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association has just released its Power Rankings for the week ending Sunday, January 8th and once gain the Colorado Kings held onto the top spot.
'There were quite a few changes since the last power rankings,' stated ABA CEO Joe Newman . 'My guess is that there will continue to be a battle for the number one position as we have some very strong teams. We're definitely getting a pretty good picture and any of the top eight could well be ranked at the top.'

1. Colorado Kings
2. South Carolina Warriors
3. San Diego Sol
4. Los Angeles SLAM
5. Arizona Scorpions
6. Texas FUEL
7. Jacksonville Giants
8. Atlanta Experience
9. Memphis Bluff City Reign
10. Chicago Steam
11. Bay Area Matrix
12. Jersey Express
13. Athens Razors
14. Gulf Coast Flash
15. Conway Cyclones
16. Carolina Cheetahs
17. Connecticut Topballerz
18. San Francisco Rumble
19. Seattle Mountaineers
20. Lynchburg Legends
21. Richmond Elite
22. North Dallas Vandals
23. Lima Explosion
24. Carolina Cougars

'And the West Virginia Blazers, East Bay Pitbulls, Alaska Quake and Missouri Rhythm are showing some very good strength and will probably move into the rankings shortly.' For more information, visit www.abalive.com

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Zlatorog brings back Strnad - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog announced the comeback of its former captain Nejc Strnad (190-G-83) for the remainder of the season. Strnad arrives from Rogaska Crystal, for whom he averaged 10.7 points (2P 3P 38%, FT 64%), 2.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals in over 29 minutes per game in 10 Teleamch League games this season. The player left Zlatorog in the summer 2010 to join Greek team Kavala and now he's back to Lasko.

Standings

Adriatic League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A			14-1
2. Cedevita			11-3
3. Buducnost			10-4
4. Partizan			10-4
5. Union Olimpija			9-5
6. Radnicki K.			7-7
7. Siroki WWin			7-7
8. Cibona			7-7
9. KK Zagreb CO			7-7
10. Crvena Zvezda			4-10
11. Krka			4-10
12. Hemofarm			4-10
13. Helios			3-11
14. Zlatorog			2-13

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 20.7

1. Simon, Radnicki K.	20.7
2. Scott, Radnicki K.	18.5
3. Panic, Zlatorog	17.5
4. Simon, KK.	17.2
5. Vucevic, Buducnost	16.9
6. Pilepic, Siroki W.	16.4
7. Morrison, Crvena Z.	15.5
8. Kasun, KK.	15.4
9. Kus, Cibona	14.1
10. Pavkovic, Radnick.	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Boris SAVOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 12.1

1. Savovic, Hemofarm	12.1
2. Vucevic, Buducnost	9.7
3. Simon, Radnicki K.	7.9
4. Kasun, KK.	6.8
5. Scott, Radnicki K.	6.6
6. Pasalic, Helios	6.1
7. Pavic, Krka	5.7
8. Popovic, Crvena Z.	5.6
9. Sakic, Siroki WWin	5.5
10. Pekovic, Partizan	5.5

Assists Per Game

Steven MARKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (190-G-85)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Markovic, Radnicki	8.2
2. Pavkovic, Radnicki	7.1
3. Farmar, Maccabi	6.2
4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	5.3
5. Papaloukas, Macca.	4.6
6. Vladovic, Siroki W.	4.5
7. Draper, Cedevita	4.2
8. Mulaomerovic, KK Z.	4.0
9. Covic, Crvena Z.	3.9
10. Kus, Cibona	3.8

Steals Per Game

D.J. GAY
  Helios
  (183-G-89)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Gay, Helios	2.4
2. Papaloukas, Macca.	2.0
3. Simon, KK.	1.9
4. Markovic, Radnicki	1.8
5. Dragic, Krka	1.8
6. Draper, Cedevita	1.7
7. Zubcic, Cibona	1.7
8. Pilepic, Siroki W.	1.6
9. Pavkovic, Radnicki	1.4
10. Lucic, Partizan	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Shawn JAMES
  Maccabi T-A
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 1.7

1. James, Maccabi T-A	1.7
2. Vucevic, Buducnost	1.1
3. Savovic, Hemofarm	1.1
4. Scott, Radnicki K.	1.0
5. Simon, Radnicki K.	0.9
6. Hendrix, Maccabi	0.9
7. Pekovic, Partizan	0.8
8. Kasun, KK.	0.8
9. Jordan, Krka	0.7
10. Ilic, Crvena Zvez.	0.7

Radnicki Kragujevac confirms 222cm C Boban Marjanovic - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Radnicki Kragujevac officially announced arrival of 222cm C Boban Marjanovic (222-C-88, agency: Beo Basket). They penned a deal for rest of the season. Marjanovic started it with Nizhny Novgorod, but he appeared just for times for the club. Last season Marjanovic split between CSKA Moscow and Zalgiris Kaunas. With CSKA he averaged 8.3 points and 6 rebounds in 4 VTB United league games. He had lower numbers in Russian championship and Euroleague as well. Later with Zalgiris, Boban Marjanovic had 5.6 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 17 games in Lithuania, while he had almost the same numbers in Euroleague. Marjanovic helped Zalgiris to win the Lithuanian and Baltic league titles. In the past, the center spent several years with Hemofarm Vrsac. He is active member of the Serbian National Team since 2008.

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ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

1. Obras		11-1
2. Penarol		10-2
3. Libertad S.		9-3
4. Atenas		7-5
5. Sionista		7-5
6. Lanus		7-5
7. Quimsa		6-6
8. Regatas C.		6-6
9. La Union		6-6
10. Boca Jrs		6-6
11. Wuber-Est.Bahia		5-6
12. San Mart.C.		4-8
13. Olimpico LB		3-8
14. GECR Indalo		3-9
15. Club 9		3-9
16. Quilmes MP		2-10

Standings - TNA

TNA Stage Two Standings

TNA1 North
1. Alvear		0-0
2. Estudian.Con.		0-0
3. Obera TC		0-0
4. San Isidro		0-0
5. Union Progr.		0-0
TNA1 South
1. Alianza Viedma		0-0
2. Argentino		0-0
3. Banda Norte		0-0
4. Ciclista		0-0
5. Huracan		0-0
TNA2 North
1. A.Espanola		0-0
2. A.Italiana		0-0
3. Atl.Echague		0-0
4. Tomas Rocam.		0-0
5. Union Sunch		0-0
TNA2 South
1. Bragado		0-0
2. Rosario Cent.		0-0
3. San Mart.MJ		0-0
4. Sport Club		0-0

Stage One Standings

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Smith, La Union	18.5
2. Gutierrez, Obras	18.1
3. Villegas, Sionista	17.3
4. OBannon, Boca Jrs	16.9
5. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	16.7
6. McHopson, Quilm.	16.6
7. Mojica, Wuber-Es.	16.2
8. Pittman, Libertad.	15.7
9. Mikulas, La Union	15.6
10. Roe, Regatas C.	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

Ruben GARCES
  Atenas
  (206-C/F-73)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Garces, Atenas	9.4
2. Sandes, Sionista	9.3
3. Gutierrez, Obras	9.0
4. Lloreda, Olimpico.	8.8
5. Battle, Libertad S.	8.6
6. Truscott, Quilm.	8.4
7. Cowan, Club 9	7.7
8. Mikulas, La Union	7.2
9. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	7.1
10. Williams, Quimsa	7.0

Assists Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Campazzo, Penarol	6.8
2. Sanchez, Wuber-.	6.6
3. Martinez, Regat.	5.7
4. Stanic, Boca Jrs	5.7
5. Cequeira, Sionista	4.9
6. Sucatzky, Atenas	4.2
7. Victoriano, San M.	4.2
8. Smith, La Union	3.9
9. Osimani, Obras	3.4
10. Quinteros, Regat.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Lescano, Atenas	2.3
2. Campazzo, Penarol	2.2
3. McHopson, Quilm.	1.8
4. Sanchez, Wuber-.	1.6
5. Beitzel, San M.	1.6
6. Stanic, Boca Jrs	1.6
7. Washam, Obras	1.5
8. Quinteros, Regat.	1.5
9. Funes, GECR I.	1.5
10. Pau, La Union	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Hakeem ROLLINS
  Sionista
  (202-F/C-83)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Rollins, Sionista	1.3
2. Gutierrez, Obras	1.2
3. Roe, Regatas C.	1.2
4. Battle, Libertad S.	1.1
5. Clancy, Atenas	1.0
6. Ayarza, Club 9	1.0
7. Rollins, San M.	0.9
8. Garces, Atenas	0.9
9. Gamble, Club 9	0.8
10. Sanchez, Wuber-.	0.8

Standings - Liga B

Torneo Federal Standings

Andina
1. Facundo		8-2
2. Anzorena		8-4
3. San Martin LR		5-6
4. Del Bono		1-11
5. Esp.San Luis		0-0
Buenos Aires
1. San Lorenzo Ch.		8-2
2. Estudian.O		6-4
3. Independ.T.		5-5
4. San Martin J.		5-5
5. Estudiantes LP		4-6
6. Pilar B.Aires		2-8
Capital Federal
1. Velez Sarsfield		8-2
2. P.Echague		6-4
3. Ramos Mejia		5-5
4. G. E. V. P.		4-6
5. Villa Mitre		4-6
6. Independien.AV		3-7
Entre Rios
1. La Union		11-0
2. Penarol Tala		5-6
3. Sportivo SS		5-7
4. Regatas U.		4-7
5. Rosario Tala		3-8
Mediterranea
1. Instituto Cor.		8-3
2. Barrio Parque		7-4
3. El Chorrillero		6-5
4. Union Electrica		2-8
5. Olimpia C.		0-0
Nea
1. Hindu		9-2
2. Santa Rita		8-5
3. Las Brenas		7-4
4. Tokio Deportivo		6-5
5. Sarmiento		5-7
6. Faustino Sarm.		4-7
7. Mitre		1-10
Noa
1. Talleres TV		8-2
2. Alberdi		7-3
3. Gorriti de Jujuy		5-3
4. Independ.S.		4-5
5. Nicolas Avellan.		4-6
6. Municipal Bordo		3-6
7. Union Oran		2-8
Patagonica
1. Hispano Am.		11-1
2. Perfora		10-1
3. Progreso Roca		9-3
4. Deportivo R.		5-6
5. Centro Espanol		4-8
6. Atletico Regina		4-9
7. Pacifico Neuquen		2-7
8. All Boys LP		1-11
Santa Fe
1. Union SF		13-2
2. Brown		11-4
3. Adelante		7-8
4. Alma Juniors		7-8
5. Argent.Firmat		4-11
6. Maria Juana		3-12

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AUSTRALIA

AUSTRIA

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Bundesliga Standings

1. Klosterneub.		13-2
2. Gmunden		12-3
3. Wels		11-4
4. Kapfenberg		10-5
5. Oberwart		9-7
6. Gussing		8-7
7. UBSC Graz		7-9
8. BC Vienna		6-10
9. Furstenfeld		5-11
10. Arkadia		4-12
11. St.Polten		0-14

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 27.1

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	27.1
2. Wade, Arkadia	24.4
3. Drenovac, Arkadia	20.2
4. Djuric, Gussing	20.2
5. Reed, Oberwart	20.2
6. Vay, Arkadia	20.0
7. Shavies, Furstenf.	19.5
8. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	17.6
9. Bobb, Klosterneub.	17.5
10. Curry, Gmunden	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	13.8
2. Werner, Wels	8.7
3. Vay, Arkadia	8.6
4. Reed, Oberwart	8.1
5. Oppland, Gmunden	7.9
6. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	7.6
7. Trmal, St.Polten	6.9
8. Suljanovic, Kloste.	6.8
9. Ware, Furstenfeld	6.5
10. Nelson, Kapfenbe.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 6

1. Fears, Kapfenberg	6.0
2. Danek, Arkadia	5.7
3. Klepeisz, Gussing	5.4
4. Vay, Arkadia	5.0
5. Lanegger, Klostern.	4.9
6. Schreiner, Kapfe.	4.9
7. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	4.6
8. Shavies, Furstenf.	4.6
9. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.5
10. Schaal, UBSC G.	4.1

Steals Per Game

Fabricio VAY
  Arkadia
  (206-F-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Vay, Arkadia	2.6
2. Pryor, Wels	2.4
3. Fears, Kapfenberg	2.4
4. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.4
5. Milosevic, St.Polt.	2.0
6. Schreiner, Kapfe.	1.9
7. Scott, Gussing	1.8
8. Brown, Wels	1.7
9. Wade, Arkadia	1.5
10. Arnold, Gmunden	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	3.2
2. Ware, Furstenfeld	1.1
3. Scott, Gussing	1.0
4. Koch, Gussing	0.7
5. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.7
6. Brown, Wels	0.7
7. Vay, Arkadia	0.6
8. Francois, BC Vienna	0.6
9. Greimeister, Klost.	0.6
10. Shaw, Oberwart	0.6

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Muharraq		9-0
2. Al Ahli		8-2
3. Al Hala		7-2
4. Al Manama		7-3
5. Nuwaidrat		6-4
6. Al Ittihad		6-4
7. Issa Town		4-6
8. Sitra		4-6
9. Bahrain Club		2-8
10. Samaheej		1-9
11. Al Najma		0-10

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 20.1

1. Bowles, Siauliai	20.1
2. Kalve, Valmiera	18.7
3. Krumins, Jelgava	18.4
4. Barinov, Naglis P.	18.0
5. Hallik, Tarvas	17.2
6. Soo, Rapla	17.0
7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	16.6
8. Reminas, Naglis P.	16.5
9. Mayo, Liepaja	16.3
10. Runkaukas, Neptu.	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	10.5
2. Ringmets, Rapla	9.3
3. Johnson, Naglis P.	8.8
4. Galdikas, Neptunas	8.7
5. Mednis, Turiba	8.6
6. Nelson, Jelgava	8.4
7. McClure, Kedainiai	8.3
8. Arnold, TT.	8.3
9. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.8
10. Bowles, Siauliai	7.5

Assists Per Game

Valmo KRIISA
  Tarvas
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Kriisa, Tarvas	5.5
2. Broadus, Siauliai	5.4
3. Maceina, Juventus	5.4
4. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	5.0
5. Dainys, Neptunas	5.0
6. Dorbek, Tarvas	4.8
7. Janavicius, Baltai	4.5
8. Tsiopych, Barsy A.	4.4
9. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
10. Benn, Naglis Pala.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Oskars VIRSIS
  Valmiera
  (191-G-89)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Virsis, Valmiera	2.2
2. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
3. McKee, Triumph	2.0
4. Kriisa, Tarvas	2.0
5. Keedus, TT.	2.0
6. Benn, Naglis Palan.	2.0
7. Krumins, Jelgava	1.9
8. Hughes, Pieno Z.	1.9
9. Young, Ventspils	1.8
10. Evstigneev, Barsy	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	2.0
2. Rozitis, Valmiera	1.9
3. Gumeniuk, Juventus	1.8
4. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	1.8
5. Staniulis, Techasas	1.6
6. Masiulis, Kedainiai	1.5
7. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	1.3
8. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
9. Jefferson, Triumph	1.0
10. Kurtsevich, Trium.	1.0

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Siauliai			10-1
2. Kalev/Cramo			8-3
3. Triumph			8-3
4. Rudupis			7-3
5. Pieno Zvaigzdes			6-4
6. Ventspils			6-5
7. Juventus			5-6
8. Tartu Ulikool			4-8
9. Kedainiai			2-8
10. Baltai Kaunas			2-9
11. Liepaja			2-10
Challenge Cup
Group A
1. Naglis Palangos			5-1
2. Neptunas			5-2
3. Tarvas			4-2
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-5
5. Jelgava			0-7
Group B
1. Techasas			6-2
2. Sakalai			6-2
3. Valmiera			6-3
4. TTU/Kalev			3-5
5. Rapla			2-6
6. Turiba			2-7

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BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Spirou		9-3
2. Aalstar		8-5
3. Oostende		8-5
4. Antwerp		7-5
5. Leuven		6-5
6. M.Hainaut		6-6
7. Liege		5-5
8. Gent		4-9
9. Verviers-Pep.		1-11

Standings - Division II

D2 Standings

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

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Copeland, Aalstar	19.4
2. Bostic, Liege	17.1
3. Mallet, Spirou	16.3
4. Rich, Oostende	15.7
5. Freeman, Leuven	15.4
6. Booker, Oostende	14.2
7. Tofi, Leuven	14.1
8. Winston, Oostende	13.5
9. Haynes, Gent	13.4
10. Lojeski, Oostende	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

Jason LOVE
  Verviers-Pep.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Love, Verviers-Pep.	8.1
2. Mejri, Antwerp	7.9
3. Brown, Gent	7.5
4. Young, Aalstar	6.6
5. McLean, Leuven	6.6
6. Booker, Oostende	6.3
7. Chaney, Gent	5.6
8. Merriex, Verviers.	5.6
9. Tofi, Leuven	5.5
10. Carter, M.Hainaut	5.5

Assists Per Game

Dusan DJORDJEVIC
  Ooste.
  (195-G-83)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Djordjevic, Ooste.	4.6
2. Waters, Liege	3.8
3. Marnegrave, Leuven	3.5
4. Bosco, Gent	3.5
5. Thompson, Verviers.	3.4
6. Singletary, M.Hain.	3.0
7. Black, Antwerp	2.9
8. Rich, Oostende	2.9
9. Mallet, Spirou	2.8
10. Hamilton, Spirou	2.7

Steals Per Game

Devan DOWNEY
  Verviers.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Downey, Verviers.	2.8
2. Singletary, M.Hain.	2.5
3. Wilson, Antwerp	2.4
4. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.3
5. Black, Antwerp	2.3
6. Steinbach, Aalstar	2.2
7. Mallet, Spirou	1.9
8. Jenkins, Gent	1.8
9. Haynes, Gent	1.8
10. Bostic, Liege	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Mejri, Antwerp	2.7
2. Riddick, Spirou	1.8
3. Jennings, Liege	1.4
4. Booker, Oostende	1.1
5. Young, Aalstar	1.1
6. Love, Verviers-Pep.	1.0
7. Holiday, Aalstar	0.8
8. Gillet, Liege	0.6
9. Heinle, Gent	0.5
10. Wilson, Antwerp	0.5

Djordjevic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old guard Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) put on an amazing game in the last round for Oostende and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
He got a double-double of 20 points and 10 assists, while his team beat Verviers-Pep. (#9, 1-11) 75-69. Oostende is placed at 3rd position in Belgian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Oostende will need more victories to improve their 8-5 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Djordjevic as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Djordjevic has impressive league stats. He is league's best passer with 4.6apg. Djordjevic

Second best performed player last round was Jason Love (206-F/C-87) of Verviers-Pep.. He is American forward in his first season at Verviers-Pep.. In the last game Love recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Verviers-Pep. lost that game 69-75 to the higher-ranked Oostende (#3, 8-5). Verviers-Pep. are still at the very bottom of . 11 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Verviers-Pep. managed to get this year. Love is a newcomer at Verviers-Pep. and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Christopher Copeland (203-F-84) of league's second-best Aalstar. Copeland scored 25 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Aalstar, leading his team to a 77-76 win against #1 ranked Spirou in a game of the week. Aalstar needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in . Their record at this point is 8 victories and 5 lost games. Copeland has a great season in Belgium. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.9ppg (best scorer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Guy Muya (190-G-83) of Liege - 21 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Len Matela (206-C-80) of Liege - 20 points and 9 rebounds
6. Adeola Dagunduro (196-G-86) of Leuven - 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Andre Riddick (208-C-73) of Spirou - 9 points and 7 rebounds
8. Graham Brown (205-C-84) of Gent - 6 points and 17 rebounds
9. Jiri Welsch (201-F-80) of Spirou - 14 points and 5 rebounds
10. Jorn Steinbach (181-PG-89) of Aalstar - 13 points and 4 assists

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)

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BOSNIA

D1 Stats Leaders
q

Bosnian NBA player Vladimir Radmanovic gets 17 points in win vs. Chicago Bulls! - by Chris Mathieu
Bosnian NBA player Vladimir Radmanovic (208-F-80) gets 17 points in win vs. Chicago Bulls! Vladimir came up with a huge game vs. the Chicago Bulls going 5-5 from three point land and scoring 17 pts with 3 assists in 27 minutes. Vladimir is proving to be a nice sparkplug off the bench for the surprising Atlanta Hawks who under Larry Drew have been an early season surprise in the NBA. The team has been one of the best defensive teams in the NBA and has knocked off two of the best teams in the NBA so far, the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat.

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BULGARIA

Two out, two in for Balkan - by Maria Mitzova
Balkan Botevgrad is the first team to cut and add players in the last three weeks before the transfer windows closes.
In Bulgaria roster changes are possible until Jan 21st, and it's usually early January when it's getting heated up around.
Balkan Botevgrad started the changing process with letting Tsvetelin Ivanov (196-G-89) go, and bringing in Dragomir Marojevic (207-C-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Ivaylo Kasabov (190-G-89, agency: Interperformances). Before New Years, the American Josh Crawford (211-C-88, college: Indiana St.) also left the team.

Bulgarian Cup Finals dates announced - by Maria Mitzova
Bulgarian Cup Finals - Men - will be played between February 16 and 19, 2102.
All the elite teams from National League are obliged to play in the Final 8 Tournament - - Lukoil Academik Sofia, Levski Sofia, Rilski Sportist Samokov, Tundja Yambol, Euroins Cherno More, BC Spartak Pleven, Balkan Botevgrad and Chernomorets Burgas. All the other teams are more than welcome to sign up and try against the ones above in what's win or go home tournament.
Cities may apply until Jan 17th to host the tournament, and the decision will be made two days later. The draw will also be on Jan 19th.
Bulgarian Cup has been the most exciting domestic basketball event for the last couple of seasons, and is always anticipated from the fans around the country.
Last season Cup winner was the reigning champion Lukoil Academik Sofia, and the tournament was played in Sofia.

Standings A1

NBL Standings

1. Lukoil Academik		13-0
2. Levski Sofia		10-3
3. Rilski Sportist		8-5
4. Tundja Yambol		7-6
5. Cherno More		7-6
6. Balkan		3-10
7. Chernomorets		2-11
8. Spartak Pleven		2-11

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Martin DURCHEV
  Tundja Y.
  (200-G-87)
  Avg: 20.1

1. Durchev, Tundja Y.	20.1
2. Harper, Levski S.	18.7
3. Yanev, Cherno More	17.4
4. Stankov, Spartak	16.5
5. Vukosavljevi., Ril.	16.5
6. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	14.8
7. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	14.4
8. Pavlovski, Chernom.	14.3
9. Dunovic, Chernomo.	14.2
10. Hall, Levski Sofia	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Vasil EVTIMOV
  Levski Sofia
  (207-C/F-77)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Evtimov, Levski So.	10.8
2. Pavlovski, Chernom.	9.8
3. Yanev, Cherno More	9.6
4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	8.5
5. Petkov, Tundja Y.	7.2
6. Zahariev, Rilski S.	6.8
7. Vukosavljevi., Ril.	6.8
8. Slaveykov, Sparta.	6.3
9. Todorov, Spartak	6.3
10. Tsenov, Spartak	5.9

Assists Per Game

Julian RADIONOV
  Tundja Y.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Radionov, Tundja Y.	5.7
2. Heath, Lukoil A.	5.3
3. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	5.1
4. Dyakovski, Sparta.	4.8
5. Filipov, Balkan	4.2
6. Aleksiev, Cherno M.	4.2
7. Jefferson, Tundja	3.6
8. Zhelev, Cherno M.	3.4
9. Govedarov, Tundja	3.2
10. Avramov, Lukoil A.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Dimitar ROSHMANOV
  Chernomo.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Roshmanov, Cherno.	2.7
2. Radionov, Tundja Y.	2.6
3. Jefferson, Tundja	2.4
4. Heath, Lukoil A.	2.4
5. Harper, Levski S.	2.2
6. Durchev, Tundja Y.	2.0
7. Marinov, Balkan	2.0
8. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	1.9
9. Dunovic, Chernomo.	1.9
10. Petkov, Tundja Y.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Josh CRAWFORD
  Balkan
  (211-C-88)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Crawford, Balkan	1.4
2. Pavlovski, Chernom.	1.1
3. Banev, Lukoil A.	1.1
4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	0.8
5. Petkov, Tundja Y.	0.8
6. Martin, Balkan	0.7
7. Mijajlovic, Rilski	0.7
8. Sundov, Lukoil A.	0.7
9. Gocevski, Tundja Y.	0.6
10. Yanev, Cherno Mo.	0.4

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CANADA

Lightning rally to drop Rainmen - by Eurobasket News
The London Lightning, as it turns out, would give away the shirts off their back. On Saturday night, they werent so willing to give away top spot in the National Basketball League of Canada.

At the John Labatt Centre, the Lightning fought back from an 18-point deficit and shackled the Halifax Rainmen in the second half en route to a 97-87 victory that secured their grip on first place and snapped Halifaxs league-record nine-game winning streak.

Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC) had a monster game for the hosts, scoring 29 points and pulling down 22 rebounds against the Rainmen, who were dressed in the Lightnings black practice jerseys after their own white and baby blues didnt arrive on the teams flight to London.

Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.) and Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, college: Ill.-Springfield) added 21 each for London.

Lawrence Wright (6'5''-F-84, college: Bradley) topped Halifax with 17 while Tyrone Levett (6'5''-F-80, college: Alabama St.) scored 13 and Taliek Brown (6'1''-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Connecticut) and Darrin Dorsey had 12 each.

The game turned out to be a tale of two halves, with Halifax owning the Lightning 52-37 before the break and London rallying in the second half to outscore their guests 60-35, holding the Rainmen to their lowest-scoring game of the season.

'We got too comfortable with our lead and figured it was just gonna be a repeat of the first half,' Dorsey said.

'We hit a lot of threes in the first half and we kept going for the threes - and you know the saying, You live by the three and die by the three - instead of going to the basket and getting to the free-throw line like the coach was telling us to do.'

Both teams were red-hot headed into the contest. Halifax had climbed up the standings by winning 12 of its previous 14 and the Lightning had posted victories in 10 of its last 12 outings.

The Lightning improved to 16-4 while the second-place Rainmen slipped to 12-5. Halifax, which lost for the first time since Dec. 2, would have moved into top spot by percentage points with a victory.

Joey Haywood (6'1''-G) scored seven points in the first quarter as Halifax built a 24-17 lead, overcoming Freemans 10-point period for London.

In the second, the Rainmen continued to burn the Lightning with their dribble penetration and kickouts. They outscored the Lightning by eight points (28-20) and finished strong, with back-to-back Dorsey treys and a Brown backdoor layup sending them to the half with a 52-37 spread.

But London, typically a second-half squad, stormed back by outscoring the Rainmen 29-14 in the third quarter to knot the game at 66-66.

Playing with a small lineup to counter Halifaxs attack, the Lightning forced 10 turnovers and held the Rainmen to 5-of-19 shooting in the quarter after they hit 50 per cent from the field in the first half.

After a Dorsey shot put Halifax up 63-48, London went on a 16-0 surge and took the lead on Tim Elliss layoff off a fast break in the last minute before Levetts free throw with 40 seconds left halted the run.

A Justin Johnson trey, Halifaxs only one of the quarter, sent Halifax up by three on the first possession of the fourth period but London promptly had a 10-2 run and the beleaguered Rainmen didnt get any closer than four points the rest of the way.

Halifax finished with 10 treys but had only two in the second half.

The two teams will square off again on Jan. 19 in London.

The Rainmen are back on the road Tuesday night to face the Moncton Miracles (3-15). They return home to meet the Saint John Mill Rats (9-11) on Jan. 14.

Courtesy of http://thechronicleherald.ca

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Justin KING
  TRU
  (--)
  Avg: 25.6

1. King, TRU	25.6
2. Fassett, St.Mary''s	22.8
3. Mackinnon, Victoria	21.6
4. Yu, UBC	21.5
5. Diloreto, Windsor	21.3
6. Thomas, St.Franc.	20.7
7. Coston, TWU	20.3
8. Baker, Alberta	20.3
9. Habib, Memorial	20.3
10. Cooper, UPEI	20.1

Rebounds Per Game

Kamar BURKE
  UBC
  (196-F/G-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Burke, UBC	11.0
2. Phillip, Windsor	10.8
3. King, TRU	10.7
4. Baker, Alberta	10.6
5. Klassen, Acadia	9.7
6. Lieffers, Saskatch.	9.4
7. Hadzimuratov., Lav.	9.0
8. Desroches, New B.	8.9
9. Hull, Laurentian	8.6
10. Staniscia, Ryerson	8.5

Assists Per Game

Jimmy DORSEY
  Cape Breton
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	8.1
2. Helsby, Memorial	6.3
3. Kanza Mata, Dalho.	5.9
4. Kraus, Brock	5.8
5. Smith, TWU	5.7
6. Shepherd, Memorial	5.7
7. Collins, Windsor	5.6
8. Yu, UBC	5.5
9. Barrett, Saskatch.	5.3
10. Bonhomme, Brandon	5.2

Steals Per Game

Evens LAROCHE
  Concordia
  (193-F-)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Laroche, Concordia	4.5
2. Thomas, St.Franc.	3.6
3. Smith, TWU	3.0
4. Collins, Windsor	2.9
5. Cooper, Lethbridge	2.9
6. Brown, UPEI	2.7
7. Oliver, Manitoba	2.7
8. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	2.6
9. Lieffers, Saskatch.	2.6
10. Cote-K., UQ.	2.6

Blocks Per Game

Balraj BAINS
  UBC
  (206-C-)
  Avg: 2

1. Bains, UBC	2.0
2. Coward, Lethbridge	1.7
3. Klassen, Acadia	1.7
4. Thomas, St.Franc.	1.4
5. Glisic, Toronto Un.	1.4
6. Duke, UPEI	1.3
7. Andrews, Bishop''s	1.3
8. Eyitayo, Concordia	1.3
9. Tufegdzich, York	1.2
10. Buckley, Laurier	1.1

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

Atlantic
1. St.Francis X.		7-0
2. UPEI		6-2
3. Cape Breton		4-3
4. St.Mary's		4-5
5. Acadia		3-3
6. Dalhousie		3-4
7. New Brunsw.		2-6
8. Memorial		1-7
CanWest
1. Victoria		9-1
2. UBC		6-2
3. Saskatchewan		6-3
4. Alberta		6-4
5. UFV		6-4
6. Manitoba		6-4
7. Lethbridge		5-5
8. TRU		5-5
9. Brandon		4-6
10. TWU		4-6
11. Regina		3-6
12. Calgary		3-7
13. UBC Okanagan		2-6
14. Winnipeg		2-8
OUA East
1. Carleton		10-0
2. Ottawa		6-4
3. Ryerson		5-5
4. Toronto Univ.		5-5
5. Laurentian		2-8
6. Queen's		0-10
7. RMC		0-10
8. York		0-10
OUA West
1. Lakehead		9-1
2. Laurier		9-1
3. McMaster		8-2
4. Brock		7-3
5. Windsor		7-3
6. Guelph		5-5
7. Waterloo		4-6
8. Western		3-7
Quebec League
1. Concordia		4-0
2. Laval		3-2
3. UQAM		3-3
4. McGill		3-3
5. Bishop's		0-5

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CHINA

Yi Jianlian dominates in D-League play - by Eurobasket News
Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) is doing his best to convince the Mavericks that he's ready for the NBA.

Just two nights after making his D-League debut with the Texas Legends by posting a double-double, Jianlian Yi put up 29 points and grabbing 13 rebounds in a 113-102 loss to the Maine Red Claws on Sunday night.

Jianlian shot 12-for-19 from the field, a significant improvement over his 6-for-19 mark on Friday, and he tacked on four assists for good measure.

In two games with the Legends, Jianlian is averaging 23 points and 12 rebounds. He was shooting better than 47% from the floor.

Courtesy of http://mavsblog.dallasnews.com

Standings - CBA

CBA Standings

1. Guandong ST		17-4
2. Guangsha L.		14-7
3. Beijing Ducks		14-7
4. DongGuan L.		13-8
5. Zhejiang C.		12-8
6. Shanghai S.		12-8
7. Fujian XX		12-9
8. Liaoning H.		11-10
9. Shanxi Zh.		10-9
10. Xinjiang F.T.		10-9
11. Qingdao DS		9-12
12. Shandong FB		9-12
13. Jilin NE T.		8-13
14. Bayi Fubang		6-13
15. Foshan		6-14
16. TianJin R.		6-15
17. Jiangsu D.		5-16

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

J.R. SMITH
  Zhejiang C.
  (198-G-85)
  Avg: 34.3

1. Smith, Zhejiang C.	34.3
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	33.0
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	30.8
4. Chandler, Guangsha.	28.4
5. McDonald, Fujian X.	28.2
6. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	28.1
7. Mills, Xinjiang.	26.5
8. Akognon, DongGuan.	25.7
9. Martin, Jilin N.	25.6
10. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	25.5

Rebounds Per Game

Zaid ABBAS
  Fujian XX
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 14.8

1. Abbas, Fujian XX	14.8
2. Harvey, TianJin R.	13.6
3. Ramos, Guangsha L.	13.5
4. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	13.3
5. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	13.2
6. Gadzuric, Jiang.	13.1
7. Hunter, Shandong	12.9
8. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.5
9. Randolph, DongGua.	12.5
10. Harris, Shanghai	12.1

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.7

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.7
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	6.7
3. Marbury, Beijing	6.4
4. Yang, Liaoning H.	6.0
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	5.3
6. Mengke, Xinjiang.	5.1
7. Brooks, Guandong	4.9
8. Anderson, Shandon.	4.6
9. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.4
10. Lee, Beijing Ducks	4.3

Steals Per Game

Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Hudson, Qingdao DS	3.2
2. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.9
3. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.8
4. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	2.5
5. Anderson, Shandon.	2.5
6. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.5
7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.5
8. Hu, Jiangsu D.	2.5
9. Williams, Shanxi Z.	2.3
10. Mills, Xinjiang.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Dan GADZURIC
  Jiang.
  (211-C-78)
  Avg: 2

1. Gadzuric, Jiang.	2.0
2. Douthit, Foshan	1.8
3. Zhang, Shanghai S.	1.8
4. Xu, Bayi Fubang	1.8
5. Randolph, DongGua.	1.7
6. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.7
7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	1.6
8. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.6
9. Carney, Liaoning H.	1.5
10. Watkins, Jilin N.	1.4

CBA Round 22: Beijing Ducks are defeated by Fujian SBS XunXin - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most important game in the last round took place in Beijing between third ranked Beijing Ducks (14-7) and seventh ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (12-9) on Sunday night. Beijing Ducks were defeated by Fujian SBS XunXin in a tough game at home 105-109. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Beijing Ducks won third quarter 30-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Beijing Ducks 56-42 including 42 on the defensive glass. American center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) had a double-double by scoring 41 points (!!!), 17 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) chipped in 27 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Fujian SBS XunXin's coach Joseph Stiebing used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) responded with a double-double by scoring 31 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks. Fujian SBS XunXin have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain seventh position with 12-9 record. Beijing Ducks lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the second place with seven games lost. They share the position with Guangsha L.. Fujian SBS XunXin are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#16) in Tianjin in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Beijing Ducks will play on the road against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#10) in Urumqi and are hoping to win this game.
Very important is a home loss of second ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-7) against sixth ranked Shanghai Sharks (12-8) on Sunday night. Host Zhejiang Guangsha Lions were defeated by Shanghai Sharks in a tough game in Hangzhou 88-97. American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) notched 29 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and Wei Liu supported him with 13 points. Even 23 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) did not help to save the game for Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Shanghai Sharks have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Zhejiang C. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Beijing Ducks. Shanghai Sharks will play against Jilin Tigers (#13) in Changchun in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will have a break next round.
Bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the three-game losing streak on Sunday night. This time they won against ninth-ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige in Nanjing 97-84. Jackson Vroman fired a double-double by scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Gani Lawal produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 26 rebounds for lost side. Jiangsu Dragons maintains seventeenth position with 5-16 record. Loser Xinjiang Flying Tige keeps the ninth place with nine games lost. They share the position with Shanxi Zh.. Jiangsu Dragons will meet higher ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (#9) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Beijing Ducks having rather not much hope for a victory.
CBA top team - Guandong Tigers (17-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat eleventh ranked Qingdao Double Star (9-12) in Dongguan 127-117. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Qingdao Double Star. Worth to mention a great performance of XiaoYu Liu who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 4 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guandong Tigers have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-4 record. Qingdao Double Star at the other side keeps the eleventh place with 12 games lost. Guandong Tigers' next round opponent will be Shandong Bulls (#12) in Jinan which should be an easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards.
Sixteenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (6-15) gave a tough game to fifth ranked DongGuan Leopards (13-8) in Tianjin on Sunday. The visitors from DongGuan managed to secure only two-point victory 91-89. However their fans expected much easier game. Shavlik Randolph had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 18 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!) to lead the charge for the winners. TianJin Rongcheng's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. DongGuan Leopards have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. TianJin Rongcheng lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 15 games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face Qingdao Double Star (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#7) in Jinjiang.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 22: Zhejiang C. lost to Shanxi Zh. on the opponent's court 110-128. Jilin NE T. outscored Foshan in a home game 98-78. Shandong FB managed to beat Liaoning H. on the road 102-94.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 49 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds by Marcus Williams of Shanxi Zh..

Jiangsu D. - Xinjiang F.T. 97-84

Bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the three-game losing streak on Sunday night. This time they won against ninth-ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige in Nanjing 97-84. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 97-84. Jiangsu Dragons forced 29 Xinjiang Flying Tige turnovers. Strangely Xinjiang Flying Tige outrebounded Jiangsu Dragons 49-32 including a 18-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) fired a double-double by scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the winners. The former international swingman Da Meng (196-82) chipped in 24 points and 5 assists. American forward Gani Lawal (206-88, college: Georgia Tech) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 26 rebounds and the former international center Bateer Mengke (210-75) added 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Five Jiangsu Dragons and four Xinjiang Flying Tige players scored in double figures. Jiangsu Dragons maintains seventeenth position with 5-16 record. Loser Xinjiang Flying Tige keeps the ninth place with nine games lost. They share the position with Shanxi Zh.. Jiangsu Dragons will meet higher ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (#9) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Beijing Ducks having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: L.Gani 30+26reb, M.Bateer 15+7reb+5ast, P.Tim 13+7reb+2ast, C.Tal 10+5reb+1ast, P.Duo 9+2reb+1ast, X.GuoChong 7+2reb+2ast
Jiangsu D.: V.Jackson 25+11reb+4ast, M.Da 24+4reb+5ast, Y.Li 17+3ast, S.KangMing 12+12reb, W.Marcus 10+2reb+5ast, Y.Li 9+2reb+1ast

Shanxi Zh. - Zhejiang C. 128-110

There was an upset in Taiyuan where higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (12-8) were defeated by tenth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (10-9) 128-110 on Sunday. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Shanxi Zhongyu's pressure prevailed and they won that period 41-29 extending their advantage to 18 points. They dominated down low during the game scoring 84 of its points in the paint compared to Zhejiang Cyclones' 48. Shanxi Zhongyu had a 36-25 advantage in offensive rebounds. Zhejiang Cyclones were plagued by 34 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) scored 49 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds (made all of his fifteen free throws !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) chipped in 30 points and 16 rebounds during the contest. Four Shanxi Zhongyu players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard J.R. Smith (198-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 57 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds and power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) scored 17 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Shanxi Zhongyu moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Xinjiang F.T. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones keep the fifth position with eight games lost. Shanxi Zhongyu will face bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in Nanjing in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Cyclones will play on the road against Bayi Fubang (#14) in Ningbo.
Top scorers:
Zhejiang C.: S.J.R. 57+11reb+3ast, B.Josh 17+6reb+1ast, W.DaYong 8+1reb, Z.ChunJun 8+4reb+1ast, C.Fei 7+7reb+2ast, D.Jinhui 6+6reb
Shanxi Zh.: W.Marcus 49+7reb+2ast, G.Charles 30+16reb+1ast, L.XiaoMing 16+3reb+5ast, R.Junwei 10+8reb, B.ZhaoBao 8+5reb, Z.XueWen 5+1reb

Beijing Ducks - Fujian XX 105-109

The most important game in the last round took place in Beijing between third ranked Beijing Ducks (14-7) and seventh ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (12-9) on Sunday night. Beijing Ducks were defeated by Fujian SBS XunXin in a tough game at home 105-109. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Beijing Ducks won third quarter 30-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Beijing Ducks 56-42 including 42 on the defensive glass. American center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) had a double-double by scoring 41 points (!!!), 17 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) chipped in 27 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Fujian SBS XunXin's coach Joseph Stiebing used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) responded with a double-double by scoring 31 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks and forward Xiaochuan Zhai (205-93) scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. Five Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. Fujian SBS XunXin have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain seventh position with 12-9 record. Beijing Ducks lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the second place with seven games lost. They share the position with Guangsha L.. Fujian SBS XunXin are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#16) in Tianjin in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Beijing Ducks will play on the road against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#10) in Urumqi and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Beijing Ducks: M.Randolph 31+10reb+1ast, Z.Xiaochuan 20+7reb+1ast, W.Xiaohui 16+4reb+1ast, M.Stephon 13+5reb+8ast, J.Zhe 11+7reb, Z.YanXi 8+5reb
Fujian XX: M.Will 41+17reb+6ast, R.Anthony 27+8reb+4ast, Z.TaiLong 15+3reb+2ast, A.Zaid 6+14reb+3ast, Y.GengLin 6+1reb, L.Yi Ting 5+4reb+1ast

Jilin NE T. - Foshan 98-78

Rather predictable result in Changchun where thirteenth ranked Jilin Tigers (8-13) smashed 15th ranked Foshan (6-14) 98-78 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 98-78. Jilin Tigers dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Foshan's 42. Jilin Tigers forced 25 Foshan turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 9 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) chipped in 23 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. Five Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. At the losing side center Zhun Zheng (214-92) responded with 8 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists and American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) scored 12 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 blocks. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Jilin Tigers maintains thirteenth position with 8-13 record. Loser Foshan keeps the fifteenth place with 14 games lost. Jilin Tigers will face higher ranked Shanghai Sharks (#6) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Foshan will play against Liaoning Hunters (#8) in Yingkou.
Top scorers:
Foshan: L.Zhi 18+4reb, H.Marcus 15+5reb+1ast, D.Marcus 12+8reb+5ast, M.Michel 8+4reb+2ast, Z.Zhun 8+13reb+5ast, H.Ben 6+1reb
Jilin NE T.: L.Tao 23+5reb+3ast, W.Jameel 23+10reb+2ast, D.Osama 17+9reb+10ast, M.Cartier 15+8reb+3ast, Z.Cheng 11+13reb+2ast, L.Wei 4+1reb+1ast

TianJin R. - DongGuan L. 89-91

Sixteenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (6-15) gave a tough game to fifth ranked DongGuan Leopards (13-8) in Tianjin on Sunday. The visitors from DongGuan managed to secure only two-point victory 91-89. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 28-23 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. DongGuan Leopards made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. TianJin Rongcheng was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 18 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) chipped in 21 points and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 21 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Nan Zhang (197-81) scored 16 points and 7 assists. Four DongGuan Leopards and five TianJin Rongcheng players scored in double figures. TianJin Rongcheng's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. DongGuan Leopards have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. TianJin Rongcheng lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 15 games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face Qingdao Double Star (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#7) in Jinjiang.
Top scorers:
TianJin R.: H.Donnell 22+21reb+5ast, S.Chun 17, Z.Nan 16+3reb+7ast, X.GuiJun 14+4reb+1ast, H.David 11+14reb, M.XiangLong 5
DongGuan L.: R.Shavlik 22+18reb, A.Josh-Emmanuel 21+4reb+4ast, S.TongLin 13+6reb+4ast, H.ZhongMian 11+2reb+1ast, H.Chih-Shan 9+4reb+2ast, Z.Kai 8+4reb

Guangsha L. - Shanghai S. 88-97

Very important is a home loss of second ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-7) against sixth ranked Shanghai Sharks (12-8) on Sunday night. Host Zhejiang Guangsha Lions were defeated by Shanghai Sharks in a tough game in Hangzhou 88-97. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-12. But Zhejiang Guangsha Lions won second period 28-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shanghai Sharks dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' 34. American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) notched 29 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and international point guard Wei Liu (190-80) supported him with 13 points. Even 23 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) did not help to save the game for Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) added 14 points and 13 rebounds for lost side. Four Shanghai Sharks and five Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Shanghai Sharks have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Zhejiang C. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Beijing Ducks. Shanghai Sharks will play against Jilin Tigers (#13) in Changchun in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Guangsha L.: C.Wilson 23+9reb+3ast, J.Lipeng 17+1ast, R.Peter John 14+13reb+2ast, L.Chih-Chieh 12+9reb+7ast, Z.Wei 10+3reb, W.Bo 6+5reb
Shanghai S.: H.Mike 29+9reb+3ast, L.Wei 13+4reb+2ast, %PlayerNameFromUNbr% 12+4reb, M.Lingyuan 12+2reb+4ast, P.Fei 8, F.Tian 6+3reb+1ast

Guandong ST - Qingdao DS 127-117

CBA top team - Guandong Tigers (17-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat eleventh ranked Qingdao Double Star (9-12) in Dongguan 127-117. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Qingdao Double Star. The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. Qingdao Double Star was better in third quarter 30-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard XiaoYu Liu (191-89) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 4 assists. American point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) contributed with 16 points and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) replied with 32 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals and Nigerian-British power forward Olumide Oyedeji (208-81) added 15 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists (made all of his seven free throws) in the effort for Qingdao Double Star. Five Guandong Tigers and four Qingdao Double Star players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guandong Tigers have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-4 record. Qingdao Double Star at the other side keeps the eleventh place with 12 games lost. Guandong Tigers' next round opponent will be Shandong Bulls (#12) in Jinan which should be an easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: H.Lester 32+6reb+8ast, L.Gen 19+2ast, O.Olumide 15+12reb+7ast, C.Kai 11+1reb, C.Liang 11+2reb+2ast, X.YuYang 9+1reb
Guandong ST: L.XiaoYu 20+4ast, B.Aaron 16+3reb+5ast, W.ShiPeng 15+5ast, Z.FangYu 15+3reb+1ast, W.Zheng 14+6reb, S.James 13+4reb+3ast

Liaoning H. - Shandong FB 94-102

There was an upset in Yingkou where higher ranked Liaoning Hunters (11-10) were defeated by twelfth ranked Shandong Bulls (9-12) 102-94 on Sunday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Liaoning Hunters won third quarter 27-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Shandong Bulls won last quarter 31-25. Liaoning Hunters were plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) scored 30 points and 6 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St., agency: David Lee services) chipped in 22 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. Shandong Bulls' coach Bob Weiss allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side American forward Rodney Carney (201-84, college: Memphis) responded with 27 points and the former international center Xiaoxu Li (207-90) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 15 rebounds. Four Shandong Bulls and five Liaoning Hunters players scored in double figures. Shandong Bulls moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Qingdao DS. Loser Liaoning Hunters dropped to the eighth position with ten games lost. Shandong Bulls will face league's leader Guandong Tigers in Dongguan in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Liaoning H.: C.Rodney 27+1reb, H.Tian-ju 13+4reb+2ast, P.Josh 12+8reb+1ast, Y.Ming 12+4reb+7ast, L.Xiaoxu 11+15reb, H.Dejun 10+13reb
Shandong FB: A.Alan 30+4reb+6ast, H.Othello 22+14reb, Y.Ding 12+4reb+4ast, C.ZhenHua 11+6reb, T.HanLin 8+4reb+1ast, X.JiaHan 7+4reb+2ast

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CROATIA

Sime Spralija joins Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83, agency: Court Side) joined ambitious team of BC Timisoara, Romanian League leaders. Croatian power forward ended 3 months replacement contract with Czech power house Nymburk and immediately found a new club.

Zadar signs Karlo Vragovic - by Eurobasket News
Karlo Vragovic (192-G-89) is a new member of Zadar. The Croatian point guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Vragovic arrived to Zadar from Cibona, where he appeared only once this season. He played for Cibona also in 2010/11 averaging 6.2 points, 1.8 assists and 1.5 rebounds for 17 Croatian league games. He also added 4.9 ppg and 1.5 apg in Adriatic league, plus 1.5 ppg for 10 Euroleague games. Karlo Vragovic played for Dubrava Zagreb from 2005 to 2010. He exploded in their last season together with 20.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 3.1 apg for 22 games in A1. Vragovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Honorable Mention -10. Last summer he was a member of the Croatian B National Team. In the past, Vragovic played for U20, U18 and U16 Croatia.

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CYPRUS

AN INSIDE LOOK OF THE ATTACK ON THE APOLLON BASKET TEAM!!!! - by Benjamin Raymond
I dont know what to say .. but at the same time i have so much to say ... about the events that took place in last nights attack on the apollon basketball family... We were playing Omonia.. and we noticed in the first quarter that there fans had marched ... from one side of the gym to come directly behind us .. and then we noticed a big scuffle in the stands .. and later i found out that a couple of players from Apoel had came to watch the game and they attacked them.. (literally what im saying happened .. from my eyes) our coach yelling at any one who turned around .. He was doing a great job of keeping us focused on the game ... because that was none of our business .. our business was on the court .. then shortly after they got the apoel players out of there.. they turned there attentions to us .. they began to spit at us ... and im sad to say this is not the first time ive been spit at while playing basketball in europe.. and im sure it wont be the last.. so we just put towels on our heads and were told not to turn around... and with about 5 mins left in the second quarter half of the mob turned there attention to the refrees because they could not get to us.. so we were about 15 or 16 pts at this time and they start spitting on the court and at the refrees .. and try to run on the court at a refree .. i wish that i could say that was the worst of it .. but only the mob of Omonia fans new was about to happen next .. we go in to the locker room .. while they are spitting at us .. as we walk in .. and one of my teammates gets spit on and he goes back out while some other part of the mob dumps like a few bottles of water or alchol on a refree as he walks in to the tunnel... and after awhile he comes in to the locker room .. and then maybe 3 mins later .. an apollon manger .. is normally a behind the scenes guy .. tried to protect my teammate that went back out there and he came in to the locker room bloody nose ripped shirt and face completely red.. The omonia fans had attacked him .. for trying to protect one of our players .. and if you were asking where were the cops at .. im still asking that question .. well finally our head coach walks in and trys to keep us focused on the game .. and then i see a a window of the locker room open and there was something with smoke coming out of it hits the floor.. AND COACH YELLS EVERYBODY RRRUUUUUUUNNNNNNN as he's running out the door ofcourse .. and i have never been that scared in my life everybody was running in to eachother .. and i was at the opposite end furthest from the door.. so i chose to run in to the shower.. with a couple of my teammates .. and cover my ears and close my eyes just incase it was one of the concussion things the cops use before they raid something.. in reality it was more like 5 secs waiting for the bang but it felt like an eternity ... then i realized it was a smoke bomb so the rest of us ran out of the shower.. and back out to the court .. with the rest of the team and i hear my coach yelling to a cop we cant play like this we have to leave for the safety .. of our players.. and then i notice one of my cypriot teammates arguing with ONE of the mob member's.. and i yell out a few choice words .. because i was furious at the experience i had just wnt through .. and i take one step towards him i see that our bench.. the chairs we were sitting in for the game were no longer there.. and i took another and seen where they were.. there were about 30 guys with ski mask and bandannas covering there faces.. they were using t- shirts... to cover parts of there face .. and then i yell to my cypriot teammate to get back.. becasue they all saw me .. and they rush towards us and threw chairs at us and water botttles and gatorade bottles.. and we had no choice but to pick things up and throw them back .. we were literally fighting for our lives at this point.. 30 ppl we held our own ... then it turned in to what looked like to me like 100 in a matter of a minute then there was nothing any of us could do .. i got grabbed from behind as i guy was racing after me with a stick because i had just threw a chair in to the mob .. for a second i thought it was them but it was a security guard who .. saw and pulled me in to a room .. and hid me in a back closet and then shortly after two other of my teammates who got sepreated from the group.. and at this time .. 7 of my teammates where pinned in a hallway being attacked by about of 100 Omonia fans .. they were punched in the face kicked and hit with sticks and rocks over the head .. they broke glass over another one of my teammates face... they attacked a cypriot father for trying to protect his 16 yr old son... 5 guys just pounced on him... we found out that a few players from our youngster team were sitting in the stands watching the game and they got jumped on by like 5 or 6 guys .. these are just kids 13 or 14 yrs old being beat on by 5 20 plus year old men for no reason at all..when we all came into the same room again and to look at all the damage that had been done from the attack of the Omonia fans.. we had 3 guys who need stitches the youngsters.. with black eyes and cuts from being punched and kicked and hit with sticks and rocks .. i was ok .. i had changed in to omonia basketball players warm up .. and i was even with the omonia team at this point .. they put both teams in the same room.. at this point .. then one of the youngsters said that one of the omonia mob members that had just got finished kicking him and punching him.. shouted thats for what your fans did to our players last time.. and i was at the last game between omonia and Apollon .. and our fans did not attack the omonia team with sticks and rocks chairs bottoles and glass .. so after the whole team being rushed to the hospital by police escort .. I just have a couple question .. where were the police at !?!?!.. where is the protection .. for the players.. after having a night to get my thoughts together .. i have come to a conclusion.. about last night.. THERE WAS NOTHING THAT ANY APOLLON PLAYER COULD DO.. there was nothing we could do to prevent it from happening and there was nothing we could really do to protect ourselves.. the omonia fans came with the intention of attacking us .. and they came with a plan .. they came with what they needed and anything they could use .. they came with masks and bandannas to cover there face.. they came with smoke bombs .. to smoke us out of the locker room and then ... tried to act like it was only one mob member to get us out in the open .. but really when it was about 100.. they did not come to watch the game .. we were only up by 10 pts at halftime .. they didnt watch any of it .. hardly they attacked the players from Apoel first while the game was going on .. they came with a mob mentality .. and just attacked us .. and the thing that hurts me the most .. besides feeling so violated by being spit on and watching 14 yr old boys being beat with a stick and rocks .. by a 25 yr old man .. that hurts but not as much as knowing nothing is going to come from it .. they all got away .. the police got there two late .. there will be no consequence .. for there actions.. they just went home .. went to bar and and laughed about beating us with sticks and rocks .. because they wanted to prove they are more rowdy then our fans.. all i know is it needs to stop.. we are here to play basketball .. and not get caught between a pissing contest .. and im sure some of the omonia fans that attacked us will read this.. i just want you to know you attacked us because your friend did and he did becasue his friend did .. you had a mob mentality ... you are a follower.. a coward .. your like a bully in highschool .. those are the best years of there life.. and this moment might be the best of your life .. having your face covered and beating a kid with a stick .. if that makes you feel tough or more like a man .. i feel sad for you .. well the apollon family still may be shaken up from the attack and we maybe still be a little bumped a bruised today we are all ok .. but keep us in your prayers.. and for the young man who died earlair this season after being attacked in a night club .. thanks for reading .. God bless
BJ Raymond

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		16-0
2. Sparta Praha		13-3
3. Opava B		12-3
4. Proton Zlin		11-4
5. Sokol H.Kralove		10-6
6. Sokol Prazsky		9-7
7. Trutnov		9-7
8. Liberec		8-8
9. Benesov		6-10
10. Vysehrad		6-10
11. Prostejov B		5-11
12. Litomerice		4-12
13. Kladno		1-15
14. Mlada Boleslav		1-15

West wins All Star show in Pardubice - by Eurobasket News
East - West 89:92

West wins All Star show in Pardubice. Traiiling after the first half, the winners managed to produced a better second half and grabbed the victory.
East dominated the first two quarters and took 49:45 after the first 20 minutes of the game. West however needed a strong second half and after a 7-point success grabbed 92:89 win.
Peter Sedmak (207-C-85) and Vojtech Hruban (202-F-89) paced all the winners with 15 points each. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) nailed 14, while Tomas Pomikalek (200-F-89) scored 12. Rob Lowery (188-G-87, college: Dayton) netted 11 and Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) delivered 10. Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) ended up with 21 points in the losing effort and Keaton Grant (193-G-86, college: Purdue) notched 16. Jamar Smith (191-G-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: S.Indiana) posted 15, while Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) added 10.
Pavel Milos (200-F-79) from Svitavy won Three-Point Shootout, while Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) from Pardubice was the best in Slam Dunk Contest. Vojtech Hruban from USK Praha was named MVPO of the Game.

East: Travis Peterson 21, Keaton Grant 16, Jamar Smith 15, Marcus Arnold 10, Boris Meno (203-F-83, college: Davidson) 8
West: Peter Sedmak 15, Vojtech Hruban 15, Pavel Houska 14, Tomas Pomikalek 12, Rob Lowery 11, Pavel Pumprla 10

Rosters:

EAST:

Keaton Grant (Astrum Levice)
Maurice Hampton (BK JIP Pardubice)
Corey Muirhead (BK JIP Pardubice)
Michael Bernard (Astrum Levice)
Marcus Arnold (BK JIP Pardubice)
Radim Kleka (BK Opava)
Jamar Smith (BK Prostejov)
Riley Luettgerodt (NH Ostrava)
Boris Meno (Tui Svitavy)
Travis Peterson (BK Prostejov)

Coaches: Jan Slowiak (BK JIP Pardubice) and Zbynk Choleva (BK Prostjov)

WEST:

Eugene Lawrence ( Nymburk)
Pavel Pumprla ( Nymburk)
Tomas Pomikalek (BK Decin)
Petr Benda ( Nymburk)
Pavel Houska (BK Decin)
Rahsaan Ames (BC Kolin)
Robert Lowery (Levharti Chomutov)
Vojtch Hruban (USK Praha)
Stanislav Zuzak (BC Kolin)
Peter Sedmak (USK Praha)

Coaches: Pavel Budinsky (BK Decin) and Ronen Ginzburg (Nymburk)

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DENMARK

Rabbits win the Cup - by Eurobasket News
Bakken Bears - Svendborg Rabbits 73-75

Third straight Cup Final for the Svendborg Rabbits and this time they finally won it. The Rabbits grabbed 73-75 victory against the Bakken Bears last night winning the first trophy of the season. Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) was the leading player in victory with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Matthew Kingsley (206-F-86, college: SF Austin) scored 16 points and Adama Darboe (190-G-86) followed him with one less. In the loosing squad, Chris Nielsen (192-G/F-85) collected 20 points and 6 rebs. Joshua Alexander (193-G-87, college: SF Austin) had 17 points and 5 boards, while Chris Christoffersen (218-C-79, college: Oregon) had double-double of 13 points and 10 rebs. It was a very exciting game until the end. Bakken started with 17-15 lead after ten minutes, but Svendborg shined in Q2 for 29-35 lead at the HT. The Bears replied after the breather (24-18) and teams went to the last ten minutes tied at 53-53. The Rabbits were focused at the very end, which allowed them to start the 2012 with valuable trophy. Both teams will continue their battle in Danish top division, where they both hope to win the title.

Bakken Bears: Chris Nielsen 20+6 boards, Joshua Alexander 17+5 boards, Chris Christoffersen 13+10 boards
Svendborg Rabbits: Chanan Colman 18+6 boards, Matthew Kingsley 16, Adama Darboe 15

Standings - 1st Division

1st Division Standings

1. Amager BK		10-2
2. Randers		9-3
3. Lemvig		9-3
4. Koge BK		8-4
5. Aarhus BF		8-4
6. Stevnsgade		5-5
7. Virum		5-6
8. Haderslev		5-6
9. Glostrup		4-8
10. Jonstrup		3-8
11. ALBA		2-9
12. Solrod		0-10

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D-LEAGUE

Claws end skid in Texas - by Eurobasket News
The Maine Red Claws ended their six-game losing streak with a 113-102 win over the Texas Legends Sunday at Dr. Pepper Arena.

'Winning at this point when you haven't won in a long time is rewarding,' Red Claws Coach Dave Leitao said. 'You feel a sense of relief more than anything else.'

Maine (5-12), which won for just the second time on the road, set a season high in points. Its previous high came in a 106-99 win over Erie on Dec. 17.

The Legends (5-12) were led by Jianlian Yi (7'0''-F/C-87), who finished with 29 points and 13 rebounds. Jianlian, the sixth overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft, was making his NBA Developmental League debut after being signed by the Dallas Mavericks last week.

After trailing by as many as nine in the second quarter, the Red Claws went on a 9-0 run to tie the game at 24 with 2:28 remaining and never trailed again.

With Maine's starting center Anthony Kent (6'10''-F/C-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Ball St.) in foul trouble for much of the game, Justin Brownlee -- who has spent a majority of the season as a starter -- contributed 24 points off the bench and also had five steals.

But Brownlee was not the only reserve to deliver as the Red Claws' bench outscored the Legends' 71-38.

'He has been starting up until this point,' Leitao said. 'He and the other group that had been starting gave us a lot of energy off the bench.'

The game was tied at 36 after one quarter and Maine carried momentum into the second quarter, outscoring Texas 29-18, including an 18-5 run late for a 65-54 halftime lead.

The Red Claws also had a lot of success in their transition game, outscoring the Legends, 27-15.

'We try to do that with everybody but we were more successful today than we have been in the past few games,' Leitao said.

Getting so many points on the break was a big reason his club won, but Leitao said he didn't feel it was the deciding factor.

'We were more mindful on the defensive end. It was a 36-36 first quarter and then they scored 18 in the second quarter,' Leitao said. 'We really turned the tide and got a double-digit lead with our defense in the second quarter. Then, we were able to maintain that lead and extend it. I felt it was more our defense than anything else.'

Maine's last win was Dec. 24, 101-86 vs. Iowa.

It was the second straight year the Red Claws snapped a losing streak at Texas. Last January Maine beat the Legends 95-89 to end a five-game losing skid.

The Red Claws head to Reno, Nev., for the 2012 D-League Showcase, where they will face Sioux Falls at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

'You always feel better on a win than a loss,' Leitao said. 'We're going to build off of it.'

Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		12-4
2. Canton C.		8-8
3. Springfield A.		8-8
4. Dakota W.		7-7
5. Erie Bay H.		7-10
6. Ft.Wayne MA		6-11
7. Maine RC		5-12
8. Sioux Falls S.		5-12
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		13-6
2. Austin T.		12-3
3. Rio Grande VV		11-7
4. Bakersfield J.		9-7
5. Tulsa 66ers		9-7
6. Reno B.		8-9
7. Idaho S.		7-9
8. Texas L.		5-12

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 25.4

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	25.4
2. Costner, Los A.	24.4
3. Millsap, Los A.	23.4
4. Dentmon, Austin T.	23.0
5. Emmett, Reno B.	21.8
6. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	21.0
7. Ubiles, Dakota W.	20.4
8. Biggs, Canton C.	19.8
9. Lazare, Ft.Wayne.	19.5
10. Curry, Springfiel.	19.5

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 14.2

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	14.2
2. Famous, Iowa E.	11.0
3. Dawson, Austin T.	10.4
4. Milligan, Canton C.	10.4
5. Daniels, Erie B.	9.7
6. Harris, Maine RC	9.6
7. Foote, Springfield	9.3
8. Thomas, Reno B.	9.0
9. Reid, Tulsa 66ers	8.9
10. Thomas, Austin T.	8.7

Assists Per Game

Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	9.1
2. Tinsley, Los A.	7.6
3. Coleman, Sioux F.	7.1
4. Ewing, Iowa E.	7.0
5. Baker, Dakota W.	6.7
6. Cooksey, Texas L.	6.4
7. Bozeman, Reno B.	6.2
8. Ahearn, Reno B.	6.1
9. Wise, Bakersfield	6.1
10. Curry, Springfiel.	5.9

Steals Per Game

Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Millsap, Los A.	2.7
2. Fortson, Los A.	2.4
3. Tinsley, Los A.	2.4
4. Dentmon, Austin T.	2.2
5. Harris, Rio G.	2.1
6. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	2.1
7. Baker, Dakota W.	2.1
8. Coleman, Sioux F.	2.1
9. Curry, Springfield	2.1
10. Roberts, Texas L.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Foster, Idaho S.	3.3
2. Thomas, Los A.	2.7
3. Daniels, Erie B.	2.3
4. Dove, Dakota W.	1.6
5. Tisdale, Maine RC	1.6
6. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.5
7. Kent, Maine RC	1.5
8. Anderson, Dakota	1.5
9. Fazekas, Reno B.	1.5
10. Washington, Erie	1.4

Austin slides by Tulsa, 91-90 - by Eurobasket News
Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) scored a game-high 25 points and Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) notched his ninth double-double of the season with 17 points and 12 boards, but the Tulsa 66ers (9-7) were edged by the Austin Toros (12-3) by a 91-90 final score Sunday afternoon inside the Tulsa Convention Center.

Also scoring in double figures for Tulsa was Brady Morningstar with 14 and reserve Dwight Buycks with 12.

Tulsa's defense forced 17 Toro turnovers and created eight steals, led by Dyson and Curtis Sumpter with two thefts each.

Offensively, the 66ers shot 36-of-70 (.514) from the floor, including 7-of-16 (.438) from 3-point range. Tulsa recorded 22 assists as a team, led by Morningstar with a team-high five dishes.

'We didn't execute down the stretch as well as we needed to,' 66ers head coach Dale Osbourne said. 'This will continue to be a learning process for our guys. We will keep our heads up and continue focusing on getting better as a team.'

Austin, who entered the contest in first place in the Western Conference, used a 29-19 scoring advantage in the fourth quarter to post the win. Tulsa began the final period leading 71-62.

Leading the Toros in scoring was Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington) with 23. Eric Dawson (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.) added 19 points and 10 rebounds for his seventh double-double of the year.

The 66ers return to action at the 2012 NBA D-League Showcase, held this year in Reno, Nev. Tulsa will take on the Texas Legends on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 5:30 p.m. CT inside the Reno Events Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Juan Coronado is the new import player of Halcones UV Xalapa - by Basket Dominicano
The dominican guard Juan Coronado (196-G-83) is the new import player of the team Halcones UV Xalapa in the LNBP of Mexico.

Juan is a combo guard member of the Dominican Republic National Team in the last Panamerican Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. He averaged 11.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.4apg and 1.8spg.

Coronado will make his debut the next Thursday when Halcones UV Xalapa plays against Toros Nuevo Laredo in the start of quarter finals series.

The Dominican guard was the North circuit MVP in the National Basketball League in Dominican Republic last summer playing with the team Reales de La Vega.

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

EUROLEAGUE

FINLAND

Finnish Korisliiga round 24 best performance: Martin Zeno - by Eurobasket News
American guard Martin Zeno (196-G-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Nilan Bisons, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 20 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed ToPo (#5, 12-10) with 19-point margin 82-63. Nilan Bisons maintains the 2nd position in Finnish Korisliiga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Nilan Bisons will need more victories to improve their 14-5 record. Zeno turned to be Nilan Bisons' top player in his first season with the team. Former Texas Tech University star has very solid stats this year. Zeno is in league's top in points (2nd best: 21.6ppg), rebounds (7th best: 8.3rpg) and averages impressive 51.1% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Pro One Sports) of league's leader Kataja. Newson had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 13 rebounds. It was enough for Kataja to edge the lower-ranked Kouvot (#6, 9-12) 62-60. Of course Kataja still keep the league's top spot. His team lost just four games this season, while they won 18 matches. Newson is well-known at Kataja and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.5ppg (#7). He also registered 9.4 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management) of Namika Lahti (#11). Moore scored 19 points and passed four assists. Despite Moore's great performance Namika Lahti lost 67-85 to the higher-ranked Salon Vilpas (#7, 9-13). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Namika Lahti can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 5-17 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Moore he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Moore has individually a great season in Finland. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.0apg (5th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tony Crocker (201-G/F-87) of KTP - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. John Fields (205-F-88) of Salon Vilpas - 10 points and 15 rebounds
6. Todd Hendley (206-F-84) of Kauhajoki - 15 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Tim Blue (205-F-84) of KTP - 20 points and 5 rebounds
8. Ryan Brooks (193-G-81) of Namika Lahti - 20 points and 7 rebounds
9. Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86) of Salon Vilpas - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Damon Williams (201-F-73) of Pyrinto - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists

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 - Division I

1st Division Standings

1. FoKoPo		11-2
2. Tapiolan Honka		11-3
3. BC Nokia		9-4
4. Pyrinto II		9-4
5. Lapua		9-4
6. Oulun NMKY		7-6
7. Huima		6-7
8. Ura Basket		5-9
9. Porvoon Tarmo		4-8
10. SayRi		4-9
11. ToPo Akatemia		3-11
12. Jyvaskyla		1-12

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Walter BAXLEY
  Lapua
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 29.1

1. Baxley, Lapua	29.1
2. Conerly, SayRi	25.5
3. Phillips, Oulun N.	25.2
4. Williams, Lapua	22.6
5. Manning, Huima	21.7
6. Nofflet, Oulun N.	21.6
7. Stamper, Pyrin.	21.3
8. Abdullah, SayRi	20.2
9. Henderson, Porvoo.	20.0
10. Green, Ura Basket	19.7

Rebounds Per Game

Kenneth COOPER
  SayRi
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 14.6

1. Cooper, SayRi	14.6
2. Moultrie, Oulun N.	14.1
3. January, BC Nokia	11.5
4. Britton, Huima	10.8
5. Bojang, FoKoPo	10.8
6. Townes, BC Nokia	10.8
7. Stamper, Pyrin.	10.7
8. Coleman, FoKoPo	10.2
9. Williams, Lapua	10.0
10. Green, Ura Basket	9.7

Assists Per Game

Aubrey CONERLY
  SayRi
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Conerly, SayRi	5.5
2. Manning, Huima	5.4
3. Phillips, Oulun N.	5.1
4. Ikavalko, FoKoPo	4.7
5. Viertola, Huima	4.1
6. Riihela, BC Nokia	3.5
7. Henderson, Porvoo.	3.3
8. Jackson, Lapua	3.2
9. Storrs, Jyvaskyla	2.9
10. Harjula, Pyrinto	2.7

Steals Per Game

Emmanuel JACKSON
  Lapua
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Jackson, Lapua	2.6
2. January, BC Nokia	2.1
3. Townes, BC Nokia	2.0
4. Vanjoki, Tapiolan.	1.9
5. Nofflet, Oulun N.	1.8
6. Bojang, FoKoPo	1.8
7. Conerly, SayRi	1.8
8. King, Porvoon	1.7
9. Green, Ura Basket	1.6
10. Abdullah, SayRi	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Brian MOULTRIE
  Oulun N.
  (198-C/F-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Moultrie, Oulun N.	2.3
2. Andrews, Ura B.	1.9
3. Nordman, Tapiolan.	1.2
4. January, BC Nokia	1.2
5. Laitinen, Tapiol.	1.1
6. Cooper, SayRi	1.1
7. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.	0.9
8. Townes, BC Nokia	0.8
9. Britton, Huima	0.8
10. Molenius, FoKoPo	0.8

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

FRANCE

Standings - N1

NM1 Standings

1. Charleville		13-2
2. St Quentin		11-4
3. Sorgues		10-5
4. Cognac		10-5
5. Souffel		10-5
6. Blois		9-6
7. Orchy		9-6
8. Challans		9-6
9. Roche		9-6
10. Brest		8-7
11. Chartres		8-7
12. Angers BC 49		7-8
13. Lievin		7-8
14. Clermont		5-10
15. Rueil		5-10
16. Le Puy		3-12
17. CFBB		1-14
18. Montbrison		1-14

NM1 Round 15 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

NM1 round 15 most important game was a victory of Souffelweyersheim over 7th ranked Roche 64-62 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Roche. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 16-10. But Roche won second period 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Souffelweyersheim made 19-of-21 free shots (90.5 percent) during the game. Souffelweyersheim had a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for swingman Jessie Begarin (190-88, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with 25 points and 5 rebounds (went 11 for 11 at the free throw line !!!). Senegalese power forward Abdoulaye N'Diaye (210-84, college: USC) contributed with 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Guard Roderick Pegon (199-77) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds for Roche. Souffelweyersheim (10-5) moved-up to third place, which they share with Cognac and Sorgues. Roche at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Souffelweyersheim is looking forward to face CFBB (#17) in Paris in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Roche will play on the road against Le Puy ASMB (#16) in Le Puy en Velay and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Important game to mention about took place in Blois. First ranked Charleville-Mezieres (13-2) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging 6th ranked Blois (9-6) 90-88 on Saturday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Blois. It was a great evening for American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Tafari Toney helped adding 13 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. Charleville-Mezieres have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-2 record. Blois at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Orchesien BC (#7) in Orchies in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Blois will play on the road against Sorgues and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game for Saint-Quentin (11-4) which hosted in Saint-Quentin second-best Sorgues (10-5). Third ranked Saint-Quentin managed to get a 8-point victory 68-60. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Sorgues. It was a key game for the second position in the league. It was an exceptional evening for Kevin Bichard who led the winners and scored 20 points. Vincent Ateba came up with 8 points and 8 rebounds for Sorgues in the defeat. Saint-Quentin moved-up to second place. Loser Sorgues dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with Cognac and Souffel. Saint-Quentin will meet Chartres (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Sorgues will play against Blois (#6) and hope to secure a win.
12th ranked Lievin Basket (7-8) fell to fifteenth ranked Rueil (5-10) in overtime by five points 80-85. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Lievin Basket. The best player for the winners was Karim Gourari who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The victory was the third consecutive win for Rueil. They moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Clermont. Lievin Basket at the other side keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Rueil's next round opponent will be higher ranked Vendee Challans (#8) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Seventeenth-ranked CFBB (1-14) used its home court advantage to challenge eleventh ranked Etendard de Brest (8-7) in Paris on Saturday. The visitors from Brest managed to secure only three-point victory 68-65. However their fans expected much easier game. It was a good game for Vaidotas Pridotkas who led his team to a victory with 26 points. Etendard de Brest moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Chartres. CFBB lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the seventeenth position with 14 games lost. Etendard de Brest will face Stade Clermont (#14) at home in the next round. CFBB will play against Souffelweyersheim in Souffel..

There were no big surprises in other games of round 15: Chartres was beaten by Clermont on the road 82-76. Challans won against Le Puy on its own court 82-64. Bottom-ranked Montbrison was outscored by Orchy in Orchies 85-62. Cognac managed to beat Angers BC 49 at home 70-56.

Blois - Charleville 88-90

Important game to mention about took place in Blois. First ranked Charleville-Mezieres (13-2) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging 6th ranked Blois (9-6) 90-88 on Saturday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Blois. The guests were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 36-27 Blois' run in the last quarter cut the lead to 90-88 at the end of the game. Charleville-Mezieres forced 22 Blois turnovers. Strangely Blois outrebounded Charleville-Mezieres 42-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. It was a great evening for American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. American-British power forward Tafari Toney (203-86, agency: JEMsports) helped adding 13 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Gary Staelens (189-84) scored 18 points and 6 assists. Five Charleville-Mezieres and four Blois players scored in double figures. Charleville-Mezieres have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-2 record. Blois at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Orchesien BC (#7) in Orchies in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Blois will play on the road against Sorgues and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Blois: T.Sani 18+7reb, G.Staelens 18+3reb+6ast, V.Kaunisto 17+13reb+6ast, B.Recoura 16+1reb, D.Davis 7+3reb+2ast, P.Brochard 6+8reb+7ast
Charleville: N.Racon 18+2ast, C.Belser 18+7reb+1ast, D.Pistre 13+2reb+3ast, T.Toney 13+7reb+2ast, C.Guillarme 10+5reb+1ast, F.Calvez 10+3reb+7ast

St Quentin - Sorgues 68-60

An interesting game for Saint-Quentin (11-4) which hosted in Saint-Quentin second-best Sorgues (10-5). Third ranked Saint-Quentin managed to get a 8-point victory 68-60. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Sorgues. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The hosts trailed by 13 points at the halftime before their 44-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Saint-Quentin forced 21 Sorgues turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for forward Kevin Bichard (192-86) who led the winners and scored 20 points. Naturalized American guard Jimmal Ball (178-78, college: Akron, agency: ACMT) accounted for 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side. Four Saint-Quentin players scored in double figures. Forward Vincent Ateba (195-85, college: Missouri So.) came up with 8 points and 8 rebounds and guard Samir Mekdad (188-86) added 8 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Sorgues in the defeat. Saint-Quentin moved-up to second place. Loser Sorgues dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with Cognac and Souffel. Saint-Quentin will meet Chartres (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Sorgues will play against Blois (#6) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Sorgues: Y.Bassine 11+2reb+1ast, S.Mekdad 8+6reb+1ast, X.Pasut 8+2reb, S.Ocokoljic 8+1reb, V.Ateba 8+8reb, A.Thinon 5+2ast
St Quentin: K.Bichard 20+2reb+1ast, J.Lesieu 14+7reb+1ast, J.Ball 10+7reb+6ast, K.Howell 10+6reb+1ast, O.Romain 7+3ast, D.Williams 5+6reb+2ast

Clermont - Chartres 82-76

There was a surprise result when fourteenth ranked Stade Clermont (5-10) beat at home higher ranked Chartres (8-7) 82-76 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 25-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for Bulgarian swingman Simeon Naydenov (201-81, college: Louisville, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who led his team to a victory with 27 points. American forward Jonathan McClark (200-77, college: Rider) contributed with 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Stade Clermont players scored in double figures. Forward Guillaume Merie (198-83) answered with 18 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian center Ljubomir Avramovic (201-79) added 18 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Chartres. Chartres' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Stade Clermont maintains fourteenth place with 5-10 record, which they share with Rueil. Newly promoted Chartres dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. Stade Clermont will face higher ranked Etendard de Brest (#10) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Chartres: L.Avramovic 18+10reb, G.Merie 18+8reb+2ast, M.Ipouck 9+9reb+1ast, Z.Bojovic 7+2ast, M.Vasic 6, A.Razafindrabe 5+2ast
Clermont: S.Naydenov 27+3reb+2ast, J.McClark 17+7reb+1ast, J.Cortey 12+7reb+1ast, M.Diakite 10+7reb, X.Delarue 7+7reb+2ast, B.Matanga 6+3reb

Challans - Le Puy 82-64

Very expected game when 16th ranked Le Puy ASMB (3-12) lost on the road to tenth ranked Vendee Challans (9-6) 82-64 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 82-64. It was a good game for point guard Sebastien Cherasse (184-84) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Fabien Herard (198-79) contributed with 18 points for the winners. Power forward Yohann Jacques (204-90) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Guillaume Sene (197-86) added 13 points and 5 assists in the effort for Le Puy ASMB. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Vendee Challans. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Le Puy ASMB lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the sixteenth position with 12 games lost. Vendee Challans will face Rueil (#15) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Le Puy ASMB will play against Roche.
Top scorers:
Le Puy: Y.Jacques 17+8reb+1ast, G.Sene 13+5ast, A.Daube 12+2reb+3ast, S.Borval 10+6reb+1ast, Y.Smail 8+8reb+1ast, R.Martin 4+2ast
Challans: S.Cherasse 23+6reb+2ast, F.Herard 18+4reb+2ast, S.Girma 12+5reb+2ast, J.Geay 11+5reb+4ast, N.Gouacide 7+2reb+1ast, J.Almanson 7+5reb+5ast

Orchy - Montbrison 85-62

Very predictable result when ninth ranked Orchesien BC (9-6) rolled over bottom-ranked Montbrison (1-14) in Orchies 85-62 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Orchesien BC. Montbrison was better in fourth quarter 19-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Montbrison 38-27 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for swingman Joffrey Verbeke (196-87) who led his team to a victory with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Petrovic (202-84) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Orchesien BC's coach Philippe Namyst felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Regis Aubry (199-82) answered with 20 points and 7 rebounds and Polish forward Lukasz Biela (200-80) added 10 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Montbrison. Orchesien BC moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Montbrison lost their seventh game in a row. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Orchesien BC will face league's leader Charleville-Mezieres on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Montbrison will play against Cognac (#4).
Top scorers:
Montbrison: R.Aubry 20+7reb+2ast, L.Biela 10+5reb+2ast, B.Tillon 10+1reb+2ast, C.Pegon 9+3reb, H.Malor 4+4reb, J.St Robert 4+4reb
Orchy: D.Petrovic 18+6reb+2ast, J.Verbeke 17+5reb+4ast, J.Bluntt 15+1reb+1ast, D.Hayes 8+1reb, D.Cilly 7+8reb+2ast, A.Belkessa 7+1reb+2ast

Cognac - Angers BC 49 70-56

Not a big story in a game when 12th ranked Angers BC 49 (7-8) lost on the road to fifth ranked Cognac (10-5) 70-56 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 12 points at the halftime before their 48-22 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Cognac dominated on the defensive end, holding Angers BC 49 to just 5 points in third and fourth quarters. It was a good game for guard Cedric Bertorelle (198-78) who led his team to a victory with 16 points and 9 rebounds. American center Ian Caskill (207-81, college: JMU) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 13 rebounds and 6 blocks for the winners. Four Cognac players scored in double figures. Guard Thibaut Lonzieme (195-89) answered with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American forward Tyray Pearson (201-80, college: Iowa St.) added 12 points in the effort for Angers BC 49. Cognac moved-up to third place, which they share with Sorgues and Souffel. Loser Angers BC 49 keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Cognac will face bottom-ranked Montbrison (#18) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Angers BC 49 will play against Lievin Basket (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Angers BC 49: T.Lonzieme 14+5reb+5ast, T.Pearson 12+3reb, O.Sulpice 11+3reb, S.Traore 6+5reb+1ast, M.Chupin 4+4reb, T.Ramphort 4+2reb+2ast
Cognac: C.Bertorelle 16+9reb+3ast, M.Bigote 12+2reb+6ast, I.Caskill 12+13reb, I.Saounera 11+1reb+4ast, M.Buval 8+4reb+1ast, A.Lema 7+5reb

Roche - Souffel 62-64

NM1 round 15 most important game was a victory of Souffelweyersheim over 7th ranked Roche 64-62 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Roche. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 16-10. But Roche won second period 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Souffelweyersheim made 19-of-21 free shots (90.5 percent) during the game. Souffelweyersheim had a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for swingman Jessie Begarin (190-88, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with 25 points and 5 rebounds (went 11 for 11 at the free throw line !!!). Senegalese power forward Abdoulaye N'Diaye (210-84, college: USC) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Guard Roderick Pegon (199-77) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and guard Francisco Bateko (185-84, college: Robert Morris) added 16 points in the effort for Roche. Souffelweyersheim (10-5) moved-up to third place, which they share with Cognac and Sorgues. Roche at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Souffelweyersheim is looking forward to face CFBB (#17) in Paris in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Roche will play on the road against Le Puy ASMB (#16) in Le Puy en Velay and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Roche: R.Pegon 18+11reb+1ast, F.Bateko 16+1reb+3ast, A.Toto N'Kote 11+6reb+2ast, J.Young 9+6reb+1ast, M.Diallo 5+1reb+1ast, J.Bestron 2+6reb+1ast
Souffel: J.Begarin 25+5reb+1ast, A.N'Diaye 16+10reb+1ast, J.Alingue 7+8reb+3ast, F.Broliron 5+5reb+2ast, J.Tschamber 4+6reb+1ast, T.Traineau 4+3reb+1ast

CFBB - Brest 65-68

Seventeenth-ranked CFBB (1-14) used its home court advantage to challenge eleventh ranked Etendard de Brest (8-7) in Paris on Saturday. The visitors from Brest managed to secure only three-point victory 68-65. However their fans expected much easier game. CFBB trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 21-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 65-68 at the end of the game. Etendard de Brest forced 21 CFBB turnovers. Strangely CFBB outrebounded Etendard de Brest 38-21 including a 16-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for Lithuanian forward Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84) who led his team to a victory with 26 points. Spanish center Rafael Lopez (204-86) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Anthony Racine (190-94) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and center Alexandre Chassang (199-94) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for CFBB. Etendard de Brest moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Chartres. CFBB lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the seventeenth position with 14 games lost. Etendard de Brest will face Stade Clermont (#14) at home in the next round. CFBB will play against Souffelweyersheim in Souffel..
Top scorers:
CFBB: A.Racine 16+7reb+7ast, A.Chassang 15+7reb, D.Inglis 9+5reb, P.Rigot 7+6reb, C.Pontens 6+4reb+8ast, A.Pesquerel 4+4reb
Brest: V.Pridotkas 26+3reb+2ast, R.Lopez 11+7reb+1ast, B.Vounang 8+5reb+1ast, J.Rathieuville 8+1reb+6ast, A.Liorel 7+2reb+1ast, J.Lupot 7+2reb+4ast

Rueil - Lievin 85-80 OT

12th ranked Lievin Basket (7-8) fell to fifteenth ranked Rueil (5-10) in overtime by five points 80-85. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Lievin Basket. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Lievin Basket won third quarter 30-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Lievin Basket used huge pressure winning it 20-16 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 7-12. Rueil made 18-of-23 charity shots (78.3 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was Moroccan forward Karim Gourari (195-84) who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Cedric Mansare (196-85) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Rueil players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American center Tyler Sanborn (209-88, college: Guilford, agency: Strategic Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and guard Simon Cretaux (190-89) added 24 points respectively. The victory was the third consecutive win for Rueil. They moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Clermont. Lievin Basket at the other side keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Rueil's next round opponent will be higher ranked Vendee Challans (#8) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Lievin: S.Cretaux 24+2reb, T.Sanborn 17+10reb, A.Pierre-Joseph 17+4reb, V.Lehut 6+1ast, V.Mendy 5+9reb+1ast, A.Hoard 5+2reb+3ast
Rueil: K.Gourari 23+8reb+4ast, M.Diame 13+7reb, C.Mansare 13+6reb+1ast, S.Cabarkapa 12+7reb, G.Mdivani 9+6reb+4ast, M.Niakate 7+2reb+2ast

Adam McCoy joins Quimper - by Eurobasket News
Adam McCoy (195-G-86, college: N.Texas) of 610 Sports Management has just been signed to the Quimper UJAP France Pro B after FIBA ban on Greek Club Marousi BC team for the upcoming season. He's hoping to return to Marousi BC after season ends & fiba lifts the band to sign foreign players. 'Marousi BC was upfront with me and I hope all works out', Adam says. At 6'4 ft tall, he will play guard for Quimper UJAP. McCoy was recently signed with AEL Cyprus in June 2011. He stayed with them until December and left because of non payment. This past year, he was the Slovakian MVP for 2011. He attended the University of North Texas and was drafted to the NBA D League. Afterwards, he joined the BK SVIT Slovakia team and then BK Zilnia. Here the team went to the Finals and he became the MVP and averaged 27 points per game. Not only was he the MVP but also a scoring champion and dunk contest winner. With the AEL Cyprus team, he averaged 18 points per game. McCoy is excited for the new opportunity with Quimper UJAP.

Agent for Nicolas Batum set to meet with Trail Blazers next week to talk contract extension - by Eurobasket News
The agent for Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88) said on Thursday that he plans to meet with the team next week to discuss a contract extension for his client.

Agent Bouna Ndiaye attended the Blazers 107-96 win over the Lakers on Thursday, but said he didnt negotiate with the team. He said the plan is to meet next week, although no formal date or meeting has been arranged.

The team has until Jan. 25 to sign Batum to an extension. Otherwise, he becomes a restricted free agent at the end of the season. Both the team, and Batum has expressed a desire to sign an extension.

I like them; they like me, Batum said Thursday night. Its up to my agent to so something.

Batum said he would like for the process to be decided sooner than later but added that it is not weighing on his mind.

Ndiaye said he has had one meeting with the Blazers, but no numbers were discussed.

It was an exchanging of ideas, Ndiaye said.

Ndiaye will head back to Dallas on Friday, but said he plans to return early next week. Whether or not he would be able to negotiate a contract in that Portland visit remains to be seen.

If something gets done, good. If not, we will wait, Ndiaye said. Its up to (the Blazers). But its not like we are up against the wall. If we cant get something done, we will wait.

Batum, who had two points, two rebounds and one block in 19 minutes on Thursday, is averaging 10.0 points and 5.5 rebounds in 23 minutes this season.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

Jahsha BLUNTT
  Orchy
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Bluntt, Orchy	18.5
2. Pridotkas, Brest	18.0
3. Belser, Charleville	17.7
4. Kaunisto, Blois	17.2
5. Bigote, Cognac	17.2
6. Almanson, Challans	16.9
7. Thomas, Roche	16.7
8. Petrovic, Orchy	16.6
9. Pearson, Angers B.	16.0
10. Merie, Chartres	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Kaunisto, Blois	11.4
2. Caskill, Cognac	10.6
3. Jaiteh, CFBB	10.1
4. Sanborn, Lievin	9.6
5. Pridotkas, Brest	8.5
6. Mendy, Lievin	8.5
7. Pearson, Angers B.	8.1
8. Aubry, Montbrison	8.1
9. McClark, Clermont	7.4
10. Diame, Rueil	7.4

Assists Per Game

Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.5
2. Calvez, Charleville	5.6
3. Brochard, Blois	5.3
4. Barbry, Orchy	4.7
5. Ball, St Quentin	4.7
6. Daube, Le Puy	4.7
7. Berquier, Chartres	4.4
8. Dessart, Lievin	4.3
9. Godin, Cognac	4.2
10. Fellah, Angers B.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Damien PISTRE
  Charleville
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Pistre, Charleville	2.1
2. Calvez, Charleville	2.0
3. Toto N''Kote, Roche	2.0
4. Gourari, Rueil	1.9
5. Bigote, Cognac	1.9
6. Kaunisto, Blois	1.8
7. Koundjia-S., Le Puy	1.7
8. Gotagni, Le Puy	1.7
9. Bassine, Sorgues	1.7
10. Cretaux, Lievin	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Abdoulaye N''DIAYE
  Souffel
  (210-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.9

1. N''Diaye, Souffel	1.9
2. Caskill, Cognac	1.7
3. Alingue, Souffel	1.6
4. Ipouck, Chartres	1.2
5. Morin, CFBB	1.2
6. Sanborn, Lievin	1.1
7. Tornato, Blois	1.1
8. Traore, Angers B.	0.9
9. Mendy, Lievin	0.9
10. Diame, Rueil	0.9

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

GERMANY

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

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

Standings - Pro B

ProB Standings

Group North
1. Hannover		12-3
2. Vechta		11-4
3. SU Medien		11-5
4. Stahnsdorf		9-6
5. Dorsten		9-7
6. Schwelm		9-7
7. Herten		8-6
8. Wolfenbuettel		8-8
9. Wulfen		7-9
10. Rist Wedel		6-10
11. Bayer Giants		5-10
12. ALBA Berlin II		4-11
13. Bernau		1-15
Group South
1. Gotha		12-3
2. Noerdlingen		12-3
3. BSW Sixers		10-5
4. Leipzig		10-5
5. Dragons		9-5
6. Hanau		8-7
7. Langen		8-7
8. Licher Baeren		7-8
9. TSV Troester		6-9
10. Fraport SKY II		4-11
11. BG Illertal		2-13
12. Giessen		2-13

The Giessen 46ers Haul In Taj Mccullough - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The LTi Giessen 46ers have reacted to the injury to American Maurice Jeffers and brought in Taj McCullough (201-F-86, college: Winthrop) for a 4 week try out period. Mccullough is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Atlanta, Georgia that last played for Reno Bighorns (D-League) averaging 8,7ppg, 3,3rpg and 1,4apg. 'Taj is a very athletic player that can penetrate well to the basket and will help us with rebounding. We still dont know when Moe will return. We lost the last 4 games without him. The enxt two games are very important and we felt that we need a player that can score. Since we dont know when Moe can return, we had to react', stressed Giessen head coach Bjoern Harmsen.Mccullough started his basketball career with : Winthrop (NCAA) where he played from 2004-2008 and for a time with ex Tuebingen American Michael Jenkins. In his senior year, he played 34 games: 11.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3Pts: 27.3%, FT: 60.3%. He started his professional basketball career in 2008-2009 playing for the Washington Wizards (NBA), left in Oct.'08, then moved to Erie Bay Hawks (D-League): 8 games: 6.5ppg, 1.9rpg, in Jan.'09 signed at Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League, starting five): 36 games: 17.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 44.5%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 71.9%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan (Israel-Premier League): 13 games: 13.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, Steals-5 (2.1spg), FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 55.8%; in Feb.'10 moved to VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL, starting five): Latvian League: 15 games: 14.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 55.3%; Baltic League: 9 games: 18.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 50.0%. In 2010-2011, he played for the Sydney Kings (Australia-NBL, starting five): 6 games: 12.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 57.1%, released in Dec.'10, in Mar.'11 moved to Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (Israel-Premier League): 7 games: 2.7ppg, 1.0rpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Big South Conf. Regular Season Champion -05, 06, 07
Big South Conf. Tournament Winner -05, 06, 07, 08, Big South Conf. Regular Season Runner-Up -08, Baltic League Quarterfinals -10, Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Honorable Mention -10, and Israeli Premier League Semifinals -11

Source: LTi Giessen 46ers

Brandon Thomas Remains Another Month With The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Artland Dragons announced today that American Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, college: Massachusetts) will remain another month with the team with an option until the end of the season. Thomas who comes from San Antonio, Texas started the season in Italy with Vanoli-Braga Cremona, but left and joined Quackenbruck in December and played superb in his one month contract averaging 13,3ppg, 4,5rpg and 1,3apg and shooting 57% from the field and 47% from downtown. At the moment there is one international player too much on the squad, but that doesnt bother head coach Stefan Koch.'It is always possible that a player can get injured. We also like all eight international players. We are not planning to send someone home early. But if a player isnt happy with his situation, then we will listen', stated Stefan Koch. Thomas played at Umass and then in Denmark and Austria, before coming to Germany to play for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig where he helped lead the team into the playoffs both seasons.

Source: Artland Dragons

Jermareo Davidson Could Of Reggae Danced As He Propels The Fraport Skyliners Past EnBW Ludwigsburg 76-72 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
It is no secret that celebrities like to hang out and be friends with athletes and just be where guys like Kobe Bryant, Lebron James or Carmelo Anthony are doing their magic. Frequent guests in NBA areas have been celebrities like Jay Z with his black sunglasses alongside goddess Beyonce, Lakers diehard fan Mr Shining Jack Nicholson wearing his dark sunglasses never having seen normal light in the Staples Center or Spike Lee recruiting new athletes for his movies are never far supporting their basketball idols. Back in the 1950s, it seemed like it was impossible for athletes to be friends with each other, but that trend seems to have been eroding in the last 20 years as even the biggest rivals of the 80sBird and Magic have become good friends and last season the Miami Heat showed that they werent sour losers as they joined the Dallas Mavericks in post game celebrations after they lost the 2012 NBA finals. Two Beko BBL stars Quantez Robertson and Mark Dorris have combined as much athletic power to make the perfect 2012 basketball specimen are both from Cincinnati and despite being on opposing teams share a strong friendship and were on the court for their third meeting in the Beko BBL and Robertson was able to win his third straight meeting 76-72. Before the game, Ludwigsburg sport director Mario Probst wasnt to keen about any one on one duels, but had his mind on only one thing. This duel might be nice for the fans, but the most important thing is that we win. The only important thing is that they know each other, but all else about them is unimportant. We are coming on a good way. It is never about individual play, but about team play. If not all five on the court defend, then we will always have problems to win, warned Mario Probst. Long after the game was over, the two Cincinnati kids Dorris and Roberston were in a corner in the catacombs with ex Dorris teammate Jacob Burtschi hanging out and the only thing missing was a poker table as all three were calm, but Dorris was a bit disappointed about coming up on the short end again against his teammate. It is always great to see Tez, but bitter sweet when he comes out on top, stressed mark Dorris. Jacob Burtschi was used to seeing great Dorris performances like his 35 point outburst in Ludwigsburg last season and is still getting used to the Super Tez flights to the basket and understood their rivalry. They are good friends, but as soon as they step on the court, it gets thrown out the window. Both were up for this game, one could sense it on the court. Tez was all over the court and Dorris hit some tough shots, commented ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi. Robertson finished with four points and four rebounds and Dorris with 10 points.

The game also marked the debut of new Skyliner Devin Gibson who was already on the bench in the Giessen win last week, but wasnt inserted. Gibson was brought in to help out Michael Thompson at the point guard Position. Gibson played 6,57 minutes finishing with three points and a steal. On the steal Gibson flew out of no where denying a Ludwigsburg fast break and forcing a turnover. Gibson who is from Houston, Texas and played at the University of Texas at San Antonio had a superb senior year averaging 17.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 5.4apg, 2.7spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 78.1%. He had a big smile on his face learning that the team had waited almost three months for their second win at home and he was a part of it. It felt good being on the court in my first professional game and getting the win at home. I felt ok with the style. It is different to what I am used to in that there is more help defense here and more open shots. You also stay more in front of your man here, stressed Devin Gibson. Before coming to the Fraport Skyliners, Gibson had a short stint with the San Antonio Spurs in training camp and was in awe of playing with France basketball legend Tony Parker. It was great playing together with Tony Parker. He is a great player and future Hall of Famer. I learned from him how to change the pace on offense. I hope that I can do that here, commented Gibson who registered two triple doubles in the NCAA last year. I have been helping him, but he is ready. He picked up experience with the Spurs. Justin Gray also has been a leader helping him, added Michael Thompson.

The Fraport Skyliners had been in a huge winning drought at home dating back to the buzzer beater win by Justin Gray on a mild autumn night against the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg on October 12th and finally won again at home extending their winning streak to two games. After a pretty even first quarter, The Fraport Skyliners took control in the second quarter and despite never shrugging off EnBW Ludwigsburg completely, they were able to get a well deserved win at the end. This was a good team effort. I thought that we executed well on offense and defense and just worked hard and stuck together. We finally completed a good overall game at home, added Michael Juice Thompson. For EnBW Ludwigsburg, they had been in a long losing streak where they lost nine of ten games and replaced German coach Markus Jochum with assistant coach Steven Key. The team beat the Walter Tigers Tuebingen, but last week lost to Alba Berlin and were seeking to surprise Frankfurt, but instead just didnt have enough in the second half to get over the basketball hump and regain the lead. Most of the Ludwigsburg players were down after the loss not being able to loose many words. We didnt play well, stressed a sad John Bowler. However Jeff Greer who played nine years in France had some time to reflect on another tight loss after the team had lost three games by one point in the long losing streak. We missed many opportunities in the second half. We are a much better team than what our record shows. When Frankfurt stepped up their intensity on defense, we struggled and tended to go more one on one. At times it works, but this isnt the way to go and not the right kind of game plan, stressed ex Rutgers American Jeff Greer.

Before the game, there was some confusion from EnBW Ludwigsburg as in what direction they would be shooting and it was soon cleared up as the direction that Frankfurt shoots in the first half towards the X-block was reversed and some could of thought that Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin was playing with the opponents heads in trying to get any type of advantage in getting the long awaited home win again and Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwass had a long chat with German David Mccray. When the game finally did commence, 4,420 people were in the Fraport arena and saw a very even matched game. Ex Telekom Baskets Bonn center John Bowler got off to a quick start hitting his first two shots as Davidson was unable to stop the big man. Frankfurt took their first lead 6-5 on a Thompson free throw. EnBW Ludwigsburg went on the first big run of the game exploding on a 10-2 run to lead 14-7. Ludwigsburg made some intelligent plays and just executed on offense. German Johannes Lischka hit a turn around jumper, Alex Harris hit an open jumper, Green a jumper after they were able to break the Frankfurt press and get an easy bucket. Green then scored again form the wing over Davidson and Donatas Zavackas caught Frankfurt napping scoring easily on an inbound pass under the hoop. However Frankfurt didnt allow EnBW Ludwigsburg to break away closing out the first quarter on a 7-2 run to trail only 16-14. Frankfurt got some timely steals by Robertson and got to the free throw line three times. Davidson also scored inside getting a quick feed from Mckinney. The Frankfurt offense was having difficulty finding their rhythm. Davidson missed too many shots and the Frankfurt defense wasnt in rhythm either yet, stressed Fraport Skyliner PRO B player Jan Novak. EnBW Ludwigsburg was shooting 57% from the field and only 0% from outside while The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 23% from the field and 0% from outside. Ludwigsburg had the 9-7 rebound edge, but five turnovers while Frankfurt had three turnovers.

The second quarter stayed tight with EnBW Ludwigsburg having the upper hand, but the Fraport Skyliners stayed on their heels and soon would be sparked by the reggae dancer Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) that gives the term scoring in bunches a new meaning. Skyliner captain Marius Nolte came of the bench and gave his team immediate help scoring on a tip in, but former Pittsburg (NCAA) star Zavackas scored with a pull up jumper as Frankfurt still trailed 20-16. Jimmy Mckinney then dropped a three pointer and Jerry Green hit free throws as Frankfurt trailed 22-19. Then it was time for the Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) show as he took control like he did in Braunschweig recently. He started with a reverse lay up and then hit three pull up jumpers in a row as Frankfurt led 27-24. Davidson had Bowler for lunch and dinner as he used his quickness on many occasions. Alex Harris scored on a lay up sneaking inside getting a no look pass from Green and Johannes Herber hit a big three pointer as Frankfurt still led 29-28. Davidson then struck for his fifth bucket in the second quarter hitting from the free throw line. Davidson was on fire and he could of probably done so many things on the court like playing blindfolded and probably would have had success. Davidson could of done a Reggae dance the way he played. He could of done actually any dance the way he was playing, smiled Michael Thompson. We were unable to stop Davidson. When he starts to make easy shots then he gets hot, expressed EnBW Ludwigsburg German Tim Koch. Nolte made a pretty high energy left handed lay in near the end of the second quarter as the Fraport Skyliners led 34-29 at halftime. Davidson gave Frankfurt momentum. Frankfurt played small in first quarter, but in second quarter big with Davidson and Nolte which helped the rebounding. Robertson was big on defense, stressed Jan Novak. Davidson had a slow start, but then went to work in second quarter. His energy got us the lead and we kept it, said Jacob Burtschi. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 10% from the three point line while EnBW Ludwigsburg was shooting 38% from the field and 0% from the three point line. Ludwigsburg had the comfortable 21-13 rebound edge, but nine turnovers while Frankfurt only had three turnovers.

In the third quarter, The Fraport Skyliners didnt have one of their usual hibernations, but jumped on EnBW Ludwigsburg right from the get go going on a 5-0 run as Herber hit a turn around jumper and Davidson hit a crazy three pointer his first of the season as the Fraport Skyliners led 39-29. Frankfurt was able to keep the lead, but EnBW Ludwigsburg continued to press, but the Skyliners always had an answer getting big shot from Thompson and Mckinney keeping the lead at 44-34. Zavackas then hit a jumper cutting the Frankfurt lead to 44-36. Frankfurt then found an extra trace of momentum going on a lightening 5-0 run as Jacob Burtschi nailed a three pointer and Quantez Robertson continued to spark the offense off strong defense getting a steal and going coast to coast for the dunk as Frankfurt led 49-36. It seemed like Frankfurt would run away with the game now, but instead EnBW found some day light like NFL running backs do going on a 13-3 run to cut the Skyliner lead to only 52-49 with ten minutes to play. Alex Harris started the run with a three pointer and Mckinney scored inside as Frankfurt led 51-39. EnBW Ludwigsburg compensated off Skyliner turnovers as Jerry Green scored a runner and made the free throw. Mark Dorris then hit a tough shot falling to his right and Johannes Lischka scored in an off balance shot in the lane which looked similar to how David Teague did in his Giessen days as the German watched time in and time out. Dorris finished with a lay in and free throw as the third quarter came to a close. We attacked the basket more in the third quarter and found each other getting the big lead before turnovers hurt us, stressed Devin Gibson. Sometimes the best offense beats the best defense. You can sometimes play the best defense, but then you can still get beat by wild shots, commented Jacob Burtschi.

The fourth quarter continued to be a battle with the Fraport Skyliners keeping the lead, but EnBW Ludwigsburg still keeping their face in the door. Greer started the fourth quarter with free throws, but the Fraport Skyliners struck back with a 5-0 run as Herber nailed a three pointer and Davidson connected on a jumper as Frankfurt led 57-51. Lischka and Nolte then traded buckets, but Dorris hit a pull up jumper as Frankfurt led 59-55. EnBW Ludwigsburg was creeping closer, but each time they did, Frankfurt had an answer as Thompson nit a big runner and free throw as Frankfurt led 62-55. Green then still had some magic hitting a tough off balance jumper and then making a runner after Frankfurt had given a second chance off an offensive rebound as Frankfurt led only 64-61. Thompson then hit two free throws as Frankfurt led 66-61. EnBW Ludwigsburg was able to cut it down to four points one more time 67-63 as Harris and Bowler swapped positions as Bowler found Harris inside with the lob pass and two quick points. However then it was Thompson again hitting the giant three pointer and Herber making a jumper as Frankfurt led 72-65 with less than two minutes to play. Harris and Lischka would score two more times, but it was too little to late as the Fraport Skyliners survived at home winning 76-72. They just didnt go away. We executed on offense well in the last minutes and got a big three pointer from Thompson. We were able to sustain their baskets at the end, warned Jacob Burtschi.We were unable to get easy baskets at the end and Frankfurt was consistent making shots, said Tim Koch. Defense got us the win and we controlled the tempo, stressed Devin Gibson.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) with 21 points and eight rebounds. Michael Thompson had 17 points and one assist. Johannes Herber added 11 points, five rebounds and three assists. EnBW Ludwigsburg were led by Alex Harris with 16 points. Jerry Green produced 15 points and Mark Dorris contributed 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners did a great job limiting EnBW Ludwigsburg to only two fast break points, but lost the rebounding rebound battle badly 35-24 and struggled from the parking lot. For many Beko BBL teams, holding a team to 72 points is a huge success, but the Fraport Skyliners had been limiting opponents to 63 points a game in the last nine games prior to the Ludwigsburg game and continue to defend well. We do a good job slowing down the temp and limiting possessions. Everyone is helping each other and a nice phrase from Oklahoma is you have to help the helper helping, stressed Jacob Burtschi. Gibson has only been with the team a week, but has quickly understood the key to the defense success. Everyone is talking, everyone is rotating and helping out and just playing together as a team, stressed Devin Gibson. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg meet the Fraport Skyliners on January 15th.

ProA Round 17: Mitteldeutscher BC keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Mitteldeutscher BC as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Mitteldeutscher BC edged 7th ranked Gloria Giants in Weissenfels 70-68. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 19-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Arizona Reid (196-86, college: High Point) who scored 27 points and 9 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Robert Holcomb Faye (185-84, college: Radford) chipped in 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. American-Liberian forward Patrick Flomo (203-80, college: Ohio) produced 15 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gloria Giants lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Jena and Ehingen. Gloria Giants will play next round against NBC trying to get back on the winning streak. Mitteldeutscher BC will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked BV Chemnitz 99 on the road.
The game in Jena was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Kirchheim Knights (12-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Science City Jena (8-8). Kirchheim Knights managed to secure a 4-point victory 70-66. The game was dominated by American players. Guard Cedric Brooks (185-80, college: Pittsburg St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. Devin Uskoski contributed with 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Forward Jeremy Black (203-85, college: Tampa, agency: Court Side) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for Science City Jena. Kirchheim Knights maintains second place with 12-4 record having just -1 point less than leader MBC. Science City Jena at the other side dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Duesseldorf and Ehingen. Kirchheim Knights will play against BG Karlsruhe (#13) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Science City Jena will play against USC Heidelberg (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Duesseldorf between BG Karlsruhe and Gloria Giants. Fourteenth ranked BG Karlsruhe (6-10) got a very close victory on the road over higher ranked Gloria Giants (8-8). BG Karlsruhe managed to escape with a 3-point win 62-59 on Sunday evening. Martin Samarco stepped up and scored 22 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Aubrey Reese responded with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Gloria Giants' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. BG Karlsruhe have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with ETB Wohnbau. Gloria Giants lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Jena and Ehingen. BG Karlsruhe will meet at home league's second-placed Kirchheim Knights in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gloria Giants will play against NBC (#6) in Nurnberg and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Heidelberg, where 4th placed BV Chemnitz 99 (9-7) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked USC Heidelberg (8-7) 96-77. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of BV Chemnitz 99. Jerrell Williams nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side. USC Heidelberg's coach Uwe Sauer allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. USC Heidelberg moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Webmoebel and NBC. BV Chemnitz 99 at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. USC Heidelberg's next round opponent will be Science City Jena (#8) at home. BV Chemnitz 99 will play against the league's leader Mitteldeutscher BC (#1) in Weissenfels.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Diedorf. Local Leitershofen (2-14) was outscored by tenth ranked Ehingen/Urspringschule (8-8) 96-64 on Sunday night. The best player for the winners was Andreas Buechert who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks. Leitershofen's coach Stefan Goschenhofer gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Ehingen/Urspringschule have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Duesseldorf and Jena. Leitershofen at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Ehingen/Urspringschule will face ETB Wohnbau (#12) in Essen in the next round.

In the last two games of round 17 Braves was defeated by Cuxhaven in a road game 80-67. ETB Wohnbau were beaten by Crailsheim at home 73-78.

Heidelberg - Chemnitz 96-77

We should mention about the upset which took place in Heidelberg, where 4th placed BV Chemnitz 99 (9-7) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked USC Heidelberg (8-7) 96-77. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of BV Chemnitz 99. BV Chemnitz 99 was ahead by 4 points at the halftime before a 58-35 second half run of USC Heidelberg. USC Heidelberg had a 32-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by BV Chemnitz 99 helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Jerrell Williams (203-88, college: La Salle) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import forward Sanijay Watts (193-87, college: Central Mo., agency: Limelight Hoops) accounted for 17 points and 6 rebounds. Five USC Heidelberg players scored in double figures. USC Heidelberg's coach Uwe Sauer allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American point guard Gary Johnson (188-82, college: Cent.Florida) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds and Japanese point guard Takumi Ishizaki (188-84) added 13 points and 4 assists respectively for BV Chemnitz 99 in the defeat. USC Heidelberg moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Webmoebel and NBC. BV Chemnitz 99 at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. USC Heidelberg's next round opponent will be Science City Jena (#8) at home. BV Chemnitz 99 will play against the league's leader Mitteldeutscher BC (#1) in Weissenfels.
Top scorers:
Chemnitz: G.Johnson 19+6reb+2ast, J.Schaffrath 13+4reb, T.Ishizaki 13+3reb+4ast, A.Rosenthal 10+3reb, J.Schmidt 7+1ast, T.Shaw 7+5reb+1ast
Heidelberg: C.Burgess 17+4reb+4ast, S.Watts 17+6reb+2ast, J.Williams 16+14reb+1ast, C.Sargent 13+2reb+1ast, P.Zipser 11+6reb+2ast, K.Barth 9+1reb+5ast

Jena - Kirchheim 66-70

The game in Jena was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Kirchheim Knights (12-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Science City Jena (8-8). Kirchheim Knights managed to secure a 4-point victory 70-66. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 20-14. But Science City Jena won second period 17-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Science City Jena 43-32 including 31 on the defensive glass. Science City Jena was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. Guard Cedric Brooks (185-80, college: Pittsburg St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. Center Devin Uskoski (198-85, college: Rocky Mountain) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Forward Jeremy Black (203-85, college: Tampa, agency: Court Side) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and guard Kenny Barker (191-86, college: Alaska-Anch.) added 9 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Science City Jena. Kirchheim Knights maintains second place with 12-4 record having just -1 point less than leader MBC. Science City Jena at the other side dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Duesseldorf and Ehingen. Kirchheim Knights will play against BG Karlsruhe (#13) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Science City Jena will play against USC Heidelberg (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Jena: J.Black 24+11reb+1ast, T.Kepkay 10+2ast, K.Barker 9+9reb+5ast, C.Roquette 7+3reb, E.Vierneisel 5+3reb+1ast, C.Adams 5+2ast
Kirchheim: C.Brooks 23+4reb+2ast, D.Uskoski 12+10reb, D.Schneider 9+5reb, R.Tomasevic 6+1reb+1ast, N.Menck 5+4reb, A.Smith 5+9reb+4ast

Cuxhaven - Braves 80-67

There was no surprise when 14th ranked Saar-Pfalz Braves (5-11) were defeated on the road by eleventh ranked Cuxhaven BasCats (7-9) 80-67 on Saturday. Cuxhaven BasCats maintains eleventh place with 7-9 record. Loser Saar-Pfalz Braves keep the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. Cuxhaven BasCats will face higher ranked Crailsheim Merlins (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Saar-Pfalz Braves will play against Webmoebel Baskets (#7) in Paderborn.

ETB Wohnbau - Crailsheim 73-78

No shocking result in a game in Essen where third ranked Crailsheim Merlins (11-5) defeated 11th ranked ETB Wohnbau (6-10) 78-73 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-73. Crailsheim Merlins made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Crailsheim Merlins outrebounded ETB Wohnbau 37-23 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American forward Darryl Webb (198-88, college: Indiana, PA, agency: Pro One Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Aaron Cook (186-83, college: Hartford) chipped in 18 points. Four Crailsheim Merlins players scored in double figures. American point guard Chris Alexander (186-83, college: Southern) produced 32 points and 4 steals and center Sebastian Schroter (207-83) added 12 points and 8 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) respectively for the hosts. Crailsheim Merlins have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 11-5 record behind leader MBC. Loser ETB Wohnbau dropped to the twelfth position with ten games lost. Crailsheim Merlins will face Cuxhaven BasCats (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ETB Wohnbau will play against Ehingen/Urspringschule in Allmendingen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
ETB Wohnbau: C.Alexander 32+4reb+1ast, S.Schroter 12+8reb+1ast, K.Chones 11+3reb+3ast, K.Wysocki 6+4reb+3ast, P.Carney 6+2reb+3ast, J.Henley 4+2reb
Crailsheim: A.Cook 18+4reb+3ast, D.Webb 15+10reb+2ast, C.Tetzner 14+4reb+1ast, J.Buck 12+9reb, J.Stohl 8+4reb+3ast, B.Baptist 5+1reb+2ast

Leitershofen - Ehingen 64-96

The game with biggest result difference took place in Diedorf. Local Leitershofen (2-14) was outscored by tenth ranked Ehingen/Urspringschule (8-8) 96-64 on Sunday night. The game without a history. Ehingen/Urspringschule led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to Leitershofen's 40. They outrebounded Leitershofen 40-18 including a 18-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was center Andreas Buechert (208-87, college: Winthrop, agency: Limelight Hoops) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks. American forward Andre Calvin (196-85, college: Drake, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds. Five Ehingen/Urspringschule players scored in double figures. American center DeWayne Richardson (202-77, college: Fairmont St.) produced 20 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import guard Corey Hassan (193-87, college: Sacred Heart) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Leitershofen's coach Stefan Goschenhofer gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Ehingen/Urspringschule have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Duesseldorf and Jena. Leitershofen at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Ehingen/Urspringschule will face ETB Wohnbau (#12) in Essen in the next round.
Top scorers:
Leitershofen: D.Richardson 20+6reb+1ast, C.Hassan 13+3reb+3ast, J.Lipke 11+2reb+3ast, J.Genck 7+3reb+1ast, A.Kronhardt 7+1ast, V.Zenk 2
Ehingen: A.Buechert 21+11reb+1ast, K.Bright 17+3reb+2ast, A.Calvin 16+8reb+1ast, G.Williamson 14+2reb+3ast, V.Matthews 12+6reb+2ast, W.Creekmore 6+6reb

Duesseldorf - Karlsruhe 59-62

A very close game took place in Duesseldorf between BG Karlsruhe and Gloria Giants. Fourteenth ranked BG Karlsruhe (6-10) got a very close victory on the road over higher ranked Gloria Giants (8-8). BG Karlsruhe managed to escape with a 3-point win 62-59 on Sunday evening. Gloria Giants were trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 21-17 charge of BG Karlsruhe, which allowed them to win the game. They made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. American guard Martin Samarco (191-85, college: Bowling Green) stepped up and scored 22 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and forward Rouven Roessler (200-80) chipped in 15 points. American guard Aubrey Reese (183-78, college: Murray St., agency: Interperformances) responded with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and Estonian forward Rait Keerles (201-80) scored 9 points and 9 rebounds. Gloria Giants' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. BG Karlsruhe have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with ETB Wohnbau. Gloria Giants lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Jena and Ehingen. BG Karlsruhe will meet at home league's second-placed Kirchheim Knights in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gloria Giants will play against NBC (#6) in Nurnberg and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Duesseldorf: A.Reese 19+7reb+4ast, P.Friedel 12+4reb, R.Keerles 9+9reb+1ast, D.Mims 6+3reb, S.Kesselring 6+9reb+1ast, P.Flomo 5+3reb
Karlsruhe: M.Samarco 22+6reb, R.Roessler 15+4reb, J.Howard 7+5reb, D.Jones 6+4reb+1ast, J.Moore 6+11reb, M.Stockton 6+3reb+2ast

Round 10

MBC - Duesseldorf 70-68

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Mitteldeutscher BC as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Mitteldeutscher BC edged 7th ranked Gloria Giants in Weissenfels 70-68. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 19-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Arizona Reid (196-86, college: High Point) who scored 27 points and 9 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Robert Holcomb Faye (185-84, college: Radford) chipped in 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Holcomb Faye is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American-Liberian forward Patrick Flomo (203-80, college: Ohio) produced 15 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Aubrey Reese (183-78, college: Murray St., agency: Interperformances) added 11 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gloria Giants lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Jena and Ehingen. Gloria Giants will play next round against NBC trying to get back on the winning streak. Mitteldeutscher BC will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked BV Chemnitz 99 on the road.
Top scorers:
Duesseldorf: P.Flomo 15+5reb+3ast, A.Reese 11+3reb+2ast, R.Keerles 11+4reb+1ast, P.Friedel 8+2reb, M.Brauer 7+2reb, D.Mims 7+6reb
MBC: A.Reid 27+9reb+1ast, R.Holcomb Faye 14+5reb+5ast, H.Vilhjalmsson 11+2reb, S.Wachalski 8+1reb, A.Cavars 3+1reb, J.Lange 2+2reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

Martin SAMARCO
  Karlsruhe
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 21.2

1. Samarco, Karlsruhe	21.2
2. McKiver, Braves	20.2
3. Reese, Duesseldorf	19.6
4. Stommes, Webmoebel	19.3
5. Alexander, ETB W.	18.7
6. Hassan, Leitersh.	17.9
7. Roessler, Karlsruhe	17.6
8. Webb, Crailsheim	17.3
9. Reid, MBC	17.1
10. Capel, Cuxhaven	16.9

Rebounds Per Game

Justin HOWARD
  Karlsruhe
  (208-C-81)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Howard, Karlsruhe	10.2
2. Uskoski, Kirchheim	8.6
3. Black, Jena	8.2
4. Webb, Crailsheim	8.1
5. Lawson, Chemnitz	7.7
6. Harris, Cuxhaven	7.4
7. Richardson, Leiter.	7.1
8. Mason, Webmoebel	6.9
9. De Michael, NBC	6.8
10. Watts, Heidelberg	6.6

Assists Per Game

Ahmad SMITH
  Kirchheim
  (194-G-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Smith, Kirchheim	6.0
2. Jeka, Braves	5.5
3. Johnson, Chemnitz	5.4
4. Holcomb Faye, MBC	4.9
5. Hill, Crailsheim	4.7
6. Diggs, Webmoebel	4.5
7. Burgess, Heidelberg	4.5
8. Chavis, NBC	4.5
9. Rice, Cuxhaven	4.4
10. Reese, Duesseldo.	4.3

Steals Per Game

Cedric BROOKS
  Kirchheim
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Brooks, Kirchheim	2.3
2. Bowlin, Leitershof.	1.9
3. Rice, Cuxhaven	1.8
4. Johnson, Chemnitz	1.8
5. Capel, Cuxhaven	1.7
6. Ishizaki, Chemnitz	1.6
7. Alexander, ETB W.	1.5
8. Harris, NBC	1.5
9. Diggs, Webmoebel	1.5
10. Reese, Duesseldo.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Dmitriy CHEREMNYKH
  Braves
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Cheremnykh, Braves	1.8
2. De Michael, NBC	1.5
3. Zipser, Heidelberg	1.2
4. Williamson, Ehingen	1.1
5. Oakes, MBC	0.9
6. Okoye, NBC	0.9
7. Harris, Cuxhaven	0.9
8. Thomas, Kirchheim	0.8
9. Howard, Karlsruhe	0.8
10. Buechert, Ehingen	0.8

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

GREECE

Greek A1 round 12 best performance: J.R. Giddens - by Eurobasket News
American guard J.R. Giddens (196-G-85, agency: Priority Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for PAOK, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 26-year old player was the main contributor (28 points, seven rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Ikaros (#12, 2-10) 81-76. PAOK is placed at 6th position in Greek A1. PAOK is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-7 record. In the team's last game Giddens had a remarkable 64.3% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Former University of New Mexico star has very solid stats this year. Giddens is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 6.7rpg).

The second best player in last round's games was 33-year old Yannis Gagaloudis (192-G-78) of Marousi. Gagaloudis had a very good evening with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as Marousi was edged by the higher-ranked KAOD (#8, 5-7) 75-74. Marousi are still at the very bottom. 12 lost games are too many considering they did not win any game. Gagaloudis is well-known at Marousi and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.8ppg (#6). He also recorded 5.5 assists per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was Australian center Aron Baynes (208-C-86) of Ikaros (#12). Baynes scored 23 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Baynes' great performance Ikaros lost 76-81 to the higher-ranked PAOK (#6, 6-7). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Ikaros can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-10 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Baynes he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Baynes has individually a great season in Greece. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.6ppg (7th best) and rebounds with 9.5rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Brent Petway (204-F-85) of AGOR - 18 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Chris Monroe (191-G-81) of KAOD - 20 points and 4 assists
6. Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78) of PAOK - 21 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Nestoras Kommatos (203-F-77) of Marousi - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Matej Krusic (211-C-87) of Aris - 12 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Kostas Charissis (211-F/C-79) of Kolossos - 13 points and 7 rebounds
10. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) of Aris - 13 points and 5 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)

Div.B Standing

B Standings

1. Aiolos Trikallon		12-1
2. Filathlitikos		11-2
3. Niki Volou		8-5
4. Irakleio		8-5
5. Agia Paraskevis		7-6
6. Doukas		7-6
7. Koroivos		7-6
8. Diagoras		7-6
9. Stratoni		6-7
10. Egaleo		6-7
11. MENT		6-7
12. Near East		6-7
13. Aias Evosmou		5-8
14. Iraklis		4-9
15. Anagennisi		3-10
16. Halkidona		1-12

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HOLLAND

Standings - Promotie Divisie

Prom.Divisie Standings

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

Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Standings

1. Den Bosch		11-3
2. Groningen		10-4
3. Leiden		8-4
4. Leeuwarden		8-6
5. Zwolle		8-7
6. Nijmegen		7-6
7. Rotterdam		2-12
8. Weert		1-13

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

Lance JETER
  Leeuwarden
  (190-G-)
  Avg: 18.2

1. Jeter, Leeuwarden	18.2
2. Sally, Rotterdam	17.9
3. Anderson, Weert	17.2
4. Humphrey, Nijmegen	16.5
5. Acker, Nijmegen	15.8
6. Wesby, Groningen	15.0
7. Hargrove, Nijmegen	15.0
8. Boxley, Leiden	14.8
9. Sanchez, Leeuw.	14.8
10. Wesley, Den Bosch	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Yamene COLEMAN
  Weert
  (206-C-86)
  Avg: 8.8

1. Coleman, Weert	8.8
2. Sanchez, Leeuw.	8.5
3. Robinson, Zwolle	7.8
4. Bekkering, Nijme.	7.3
5. de Randamie, Groni.	6.9
6. Wesley, Den Bosch	6.7
7. van Kempen, Weert	6.6
8. Van Paassen, Den	6.4
9. Boxley, Leiden	6.3
10. Hargrove, Nijmegen	6.2

Assists Per Game

DeMario ANDERSON
  Weert
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Anderson, Weert	4.6
2. Harman, Weert	4.6
3. Turner, Den Bosch	4.4
4. Jeter, Leeuwarden	3.9
5. Wells, Zwolle	3.5
6. Acker, Nijmegen	3.5
7. Huffman, Zwolle	3.1
8. Defares, Groningen	3.1
9. Bell, Groningen	3.1
10. Slagter, Leiden	3.0

Steals Per Game

David GONZALVEZ
  Den B.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Gonzalvez, Den B.	2.6
2. Harman, Weert	2.5
3. Wells, Zwolle	2.5
4. Huffman, Zwolle	2.4
5. Turner, Den Bosch	2.0
6. de Jong, Leiden	1.9
7. Acker, Nijmegen	1.8
8. Wesby, Groningen	1.7
9. Wesley, Den Bosch	1.7
10. Anderson, Weert	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Kareem MADDOX
  Zwolle
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Maddox, Zwolle	1.6
2. Wyatt, Groningen	1.4
3. Bekkering, Nijme.	1.3
4. Wesley, Den Bosch	1.3
5. Zondervan, Zwolle	0.9
6. Minter, Weert	0.9
7. Boxley, Leiden	0.8
8. Kennedy, Leiden	0.7
9. Poels, Leeuwarden	0.7
10. Sanchez, Leeuw.	0.6

Wesley number one in Holland for round 17 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Tai Wesley (200-F-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Den Bosch, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds, while his team crushed Weert (#8, 1-13) with 18-point margin 89-71. It allowed Den Bosch to consolidate first place in the Dutch Eredivisie. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Den Bosch has a very solid 11-3 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. Wesley turned to be Den Bosch's top player in his first season with the team. Former Utah State University star has very solid stats this year. Wesley is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 6.7rpg) and averages impressive 1.3bpg and 61.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83) of league's second-best Groningen. Dourisseau had a very good evening with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Groningen to another comfortable win 83-66 over the lower-ranked Nijmegen (#6, 7-6) being unquestionably team leader. Groningen's second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 10-4 record is not bad at all. Dourisseau is one of the most experienced players at Groningen and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Mark Sanchez (201-F-87, agency: Court Side) of Leeuwarden (#4). Sanchez scored 13 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was a key player of Leeuwarden, leading his team to a 74-65 win against slightly lower-ranked Zwolle (#5, 8-7). Leeuwarden needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 6 lost games. Sanchez has a great season in Holland. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.8ppg (9th best) and rebounds with 8.5rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Markel Humphrey (198-F-87) of Nijmegen - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Peter Van Paassen (211-C/F-78) of Den Bosch - 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Sergio de Randamie (201-F-84) of Groningen - 10 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Kees Akerboom (200-F-83) of Den Bosch - 20 points and 2 rebounds
8. Manny Adako (203-F-87) of Leeuwarden - 17 points and 4 rebounds
9. David Bell (186-G-81) of Groningen - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Lance Jeter (190-G) of Leeuwarden - 20 points and 4 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)

Results Dutch Basketball League: - by Sanders Jackson

This weekend in DBL action, Eiffel Towers continued on a roll, winning their second game in the week with an easy win over last-place Stepco Weert. Meanwhile Gas Terra Flames got back on the winning track with a home win vs. Magixx Kidsright, Lauselac Aris cools off Landstede Basketball at home, and on Sunday defending Dutch champion made short work of Rotterdam Basketball College.

Saturday In Weert, the struggles continue for Stepco Weert, as Eiffel Towers jumped out to a 30-11 1st quarter lead and never looked back, cruising to an 89-71 win.
Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) led Eiffel with a game-high 20 pts., with Tai Wesley (200-F-86, college: Utah St.) adding 19. The win helps Eiffel Towers remain in 1st place in the DBL standings and improve to 11-3.

In the Martiniplaza, strong defense and solid teamwork helped Gas Terra Flames bounce back from a tough Thursday night loss to Eiffel Towers to win over Magixx Kidsright 83-66. Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83, college: Nebraska) led the Flames with 18 pts. Markel Humphrey (198-F-87, college: Marshall) led Magixx with 15 pts. Gas Terra Flames improve to 10-4.

In the Kalverdijkje, after a sloppy 1st half, the game started to open up in the second half, with current DBL top scorer Lance Jeter (190-G, college: Nebraska) coming through for the home team, helping lead Lauselac Aris to a 74-65 win over Landstede. With the score 55-54 for Aris midway through the final quarter, Jeter would score ten points in the final stretch to put Aris in position to win. Jeter managed to find the open space in the lane off drives, and absorbed the contact in the lane to keep the pressure on Landstede. He would score a game-high 20 pts., with Manny Adako (203-F-87, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Northeastern) adding 17 pts. (12 in 3rd quarter).

Amu Saaka (198-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Furman) led Landstede with 12 pts. Lauselac Aris improves to 8-6, a half-game ahead of Landstede in the DBL standings.

Sunday in the Vijfmeihal, defending Dutch champions ZZ Leiden took no prisoners in their rout of Rotterdam Basketball College by the score of 87-48. ZZ led 49-21 at the half and were never seriously threatened. Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86, college: Michigan) led all scorers with 19 pts. ZZ Leiden remain within striking distance of the top at 9-4.

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HUNGARY

Standings - A Division

A Division Standings

1. Albacomp		12-1
2. Falco-Szova		12-2
3. Kormend		11-2
4. Szolnok		10-3
5. Atomeromu		8-5
6. PVSK Pannon		7-7
7. Kaposvari		6-6
8. Kecskemeti		6-7
9. Marso NYKK		5-9
10. Szedeak		5-9
11. Soproni		5-9
12. FS Debrecen		3-10
13. Jaszberenyi		3-11
14. ZTE KK		1-13

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Justin INGRAM
  FS Debre.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 24.8

1. Ingram, FS Debre.	24.8
2. Ivosev, Szedeak	23.5
3. Timberlake, Falco-.	22.9
4. Raivio, Kaposvari	22.5
5. Ciric, PVSK P.	21.0
6. Jones, Jaszberenyi	20.2
7. Doyne, PVSK P.	19.2
8. Wilson, Kaposvari	19.2
9. Townes, Kormend	18.4
10. Bell, Kormend	18.3

Rebounds Per Game

Jonathan JONES
  Jaszberenyi
  (211-C-79)
  Avg: 12.6

1. Jones, Jaszberenyi	12.6
2. Szabo, FS Debrecen	10.3
3. Miskovic, Marso N.	9.6
4. Ivosev, Szedeak	9.1
5. Townes, Kormend	9.1
6. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.	8.9
7. Egemonye, Soproni	8.5
8. Raivio, Kaposvari	8.2
9. Fey, Kaposvari	7.9
10. Hines, ZTE K.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Laszlo KALMAN
  Falco-Sz.
  (186-G-72)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Kalman, Falco-Sz.	6.7
2. Wilson, Kaposvari	6.2
3. Fekete, Marso N.	5.7
4. Simon, Albacomp	5.6
5. Trotter, Szolnok	5.5
6. Williams, Atomeromu	5.3
7. Ingram, FS Debre.	5.1
8. Drahos, Szedeak	4.6
9. El Amin, Albacomp	4.2
10. Vasojevic, PVSK P.	4.1

Steals Per Game

Stefan FEKETE
  Marso N.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Fekete, Marso N.	3.2
2. Drahos, Szedeak	2.9
3. Doyne, PVSK P.	2.7
4. Raivio, Kaposvari	2.5
5. Ivosev, Szedeak	2.5
6. Kelley, Kecskemeti	2.5
7. Ingram, FS Debre.	2.4
8. Wilson, Kaposvari	2.3
9. Trotter, Szolnok	2.3
10. Toth, PVSK P.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Darian TOWNES
  Kormend
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Townes, Kormend	2.1
2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.	1.9
3. Levy, Szedeak	1.5
4. Jones, Jaszberenyi	1.4
5. Morgen, Atomeromu	1.2
6. Keller, Albacomp	1.1
7. Chism, Albacomp	1.1
8. Fey, Kaposvari	1.1
9. Cole, Atomeromu	1.0
10. Egemonye, Soproni	1.0

Jaszbereny gets deeper with Szogi and Kovacs - by Levente Szabo
The newcomer team of the Hungarian First Division announced that they added to the roster two former players: Adam Szogi (176-G-90) and Attila Kovacs (203-F-85).

Both players where part of last year Second Division champion team which got promoted to the highest level for the 2011/2012 season.

Last year's fan favorite Adam Szogi was loaned from Hungarian powerhouse Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (the reigning champion), where he couldnt saw much action due to the high quality competition in the roster. Adam was a key player in last year's team recording 14.7ppg combined with 5.1apg in the second division playoffs when Jaszbereny fought for the promotion.

Attila Kovacs was also a key member of last year champion team as he averaged 18.1ppg and 5.9rpg in the regular season in only 25mpg while helped his team with 15.8ppg and 3.6rpg in the playoffs. Attila left after the season and signed to MTK Torokbalint (Second Division) where he had a solid season thus far: 16.6ppg, 9.6rpg and 2.2apg.

Adam Szogi is day-to-day with a minor injury so it isn't sure when will he have his debut with Jaszbereny while Attila Kovacs will step on court in the First Division on Wednesday against Marso NYKK.

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

IBA

Standings

IBA Standings

Winter League
1. Kankakee S.		12-4
2. Rockford RD		11-6
3. Gary Splash		10-8
4. Battle Creek K.		8-7
5. Chicago R.		5-7
6. Lake County S.		0-14
Spring League
1. Holland Blast		0-0
2. Lansing C.		0-0
3. Springfield S.		0-0

Splash beat Soldiers, make playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Through the ups and downs of this winter campaign, Splash owner-coach Jay Bradford maintained a constant assertion about his clubs regrouping: When things come together, look out IBA rivals.

And after a back-and-forth schedule met with injuries, blown leads and players lost to other opportunities the Splash pulled together when it mattered the most with a 101-99 win over the Kankakee County Soldiers.

Gary won its final regular season contest and clinched a spot in the IBA playoffs. The Splash won their third straight and it was the second night in a row that they came back from a double-digit deficit.

We finally put the chemistry together, Bradford said. We knew it was going to take a while.

The Soldiers lead swelled to a 57-43 advantage going into halftime.

The Splash werent hosting at the Genesis Center but instead at the Hudson Campbell Fitness Center because of this weekends Mayoral festivities.

Trailing in each of the first three quarters, Gary clawed out of a nine-point hole in the fourth and out-shot Kankakee 31-20.

Man I cant believe this is the second night in a row they had us down by 20 and we came back, said a somewhat stunned Gary native Chris Wesby.

While Marcus Jackson (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Benedictine, KS) led Gary with 26 points, it was Wesbys eight points over the last five minutes that sealed things. Wesby gave Gary a 97-95 lead with 49.2 seconds remaining.

Normally when I look, I go just trying to get the foul, Wesby said. This time, I wanted to finish and get the foul.

The Splash defense also finished by holding Soldiers standout Ryan Edwards (6'5''-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) to six points in the fourth. Edwards was dominant the rest of the way and led all scorers with 41 points including nine 3-pointers.

The Splashs (9-8) playoff run begins with a trip to Rockford at 7 p.m on Wednesday. Its a single elimination tournament.

We have our foundation now, so we go from there, Bradford said.

Courtesy of http://posttrib.suntimes.com

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

IBL

Volcanoes star Tarver takes his talents to D-League - by Kip Leonetti
Vancouver Volcanoes standout guard Josh Tarver (6'3''-G-86, college: Oregon St.) has officially taken his game to the next level.

The Oregon State graduate, who helped lead the Volcanoes to the 2011 International Basketball League championship last July, is now starting for the NBA Development League's Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

Through 16 games, Tarver is averaging 5.6 points as well as 3.3 rebounds and assists per game. He has helped propel the Vipers to a 10-6 record and third place in the D-Leagues West Conference. Tarver is tasked with getting the Vipers back to the D-League championship series for the third consecutive season.

Tarver's current stint in Texas is the latest and most significant stop in a career that has also seen him play in Rwanda and China. After finishing his collegiate career with the Beavers in 2010, Tarver's first stop was up the road in McMinnville, Ore., where he starred for the Yamhill Highflyers and helped lead them to the semi-finals of the IBL playoffs that season.

Tarver followed his Yamhill debut with stints in China's National Basketball League and with Rwanda's national team. Last June, Tarver found his way to Vancouver where he joined the Volcanoes in time for a push to the playoffs.

Volcanoes head coach Bryan Hunter believes that Tarver's mid-season addition was a key factor in his teams success, stating ''Josh was an instant spark to our offense. In addition to his ability to direct the team on the court, he was also one of our best defenders.''

''I believe that his addition to our team may have been the turning point we needed to make our championship run,'' Hunter added.

Tarver's journey to the D-League wasn't without its bumps, however. An unsuccessful tryout with the Reno Bighorns in 2010 taught him lessons that he used when another opportunity came along. Tarver credits his faith and Rio Grandes coaching staff for giving him that second chance.

''You have to really talk to the people youre going to try out for because a lot of these teams really dont take anyone from the tryout,'' commented Tarver. ''This time around the coaches actually wanted me to come out here and I found they were more serious than other teams I was communicating with.''

''On this team I can play the one through three positions, even a little bit of the four, and guard most one through threes,'' Tarver continued. ''But I have improved my skills a lot since last year to a level where I thought I needed to be. Im just trying to show that I can knock down the open three and run the team and create for others and show that I can really play defense at this level.''

Josh, who comes from an athletic family -- his father John played in the NFL and his four siblings also played collegiate athletics -- isnt the only Tarver playing in the D-League this season. His brother Seth, with whom he was teammates at Oregon State, is currently suiting up for the Idaho Stampede after participating in the Portland Trailblazers training camp.

The two have never competed against each other in an official game, and Josh has mixed feelings about the possibility, predicting that a showdown with Seth would be ''exciting but weird.''

Should Josh and Seth remain with Rio Grande and Idaho, respectively, the two would face each other in a two-game series in Boise on February 3 and 4.

For more information on the International Basketball League and the Vancouver Volcanoes, visit www.ibl.com or www.vancouvervolcanoes.com.

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

IRELAND

Standings - EBS Superleague

SuperLeague Standings

North Conference
1. DCU Saints		12-2
2. 11890 Killester		9-4
3. UCD Marian		5-7
4. Belfast Star		1-11
South Conference
1. UCC Demons		8-4
2. B.Gais Neptune		8-5
3. UL Eagles		6-8
4. Moycullen		3-11

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

ISRAEL

Demond Mallet Signed with Charleroi, Aims to Stay with Maccabi - by David Pick
Maccabi Tel-Aviv's Louisiana native point guard Demond Mallet, is rumored to rejoin Belgium's Charleroi for the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons. Mallet recently signed a 1+1 deal with Maccabi for rest of the season, including a team option for the 2012-13 season. However, Eurobasket understood that Mallet has the option to void his Belgian contract and stay in Tel-Aviv.

'Demond signed a new 2-year deal with Charleroi, but Maccabi has the right to keep him for the 2012-13 season if they choose to do so,' said a source with information of Mallet's contract.

'In order for Mallet to be cleared by Charleroi and play for Maccabi, they had to pay a $100,000 buyout, and Mallet had to sign an abnormal agreement to return to Belgium for the next two-seasons. Yet, if Maccabi wishes to keep him for the upcoming season, his agreement with Charleroi is terminated.' added the source.

Mallet himself approved the information to Eurobasket.

Tonight, Mallet will appear in Maccabi's lineup as they take on Bnei Hasharon in the Israeli State-Cup 1/8 round. Mallet appeared for Charleroi 12 times in Euroleague this season averaging 16.6 points, 3.1 assists and 2.3 rebounds, but is yet to make his Top16 debut with Maccabi. The 33-year-old guard spent the past weekend adjusting to Maccabi's Head Coach David Blatt's system, doing an outstanding job just a few days ago with an MVP performance of 18 points and 2 assists in an Adriatic League victory over Krka Novo Mesto.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @IAmDPick

Hapoel Tel Aviv shocks Galil/Gilboa - by Netanel Dahan
The Israeli 2nd league powerhouse team Hapoel Tel Aviv which ranks at the 2nd place Hapoel Tel Aviv, faced off yesterday the Israeli 1st league 2nd place team Galil/Gilboa at the Israeli state cup 1/8 finals and shocked everyone by winning them 69-61.

Hapoel Tel Aviv enjoyed a great game of their top Israeli players Matan Naor (195-SF-80) (17 pts), and Jonathan Skjoldebrand (16 pts). Tel Aviv's American G Stit had a great game as well as he was very close to put together a tripple-double with 11 pts, 10 rebounds and 7 assists.

The 1/8 finals results:

Hapoel Afula (2nd league)-Maccabi Hod Hasharon (2nd league) 87-77.

Top scorers:
Afula: Gregg Thondrique 31 pts+10 boards.
Hod Hasahron: Johnson 30 pts+19 boards.

Ashdod (1st league)-Tivon (2nd league) 82-56.

Top scorers:
Ashdod: Duncen 20 pts+10 boards
Tivob: Clemente 19 pts+9 boards.

Ashkelon (1st league)-Ramle (2nd league) 80-77

Top scorers:
Ashkelon:Tony Skinn&Marco K.- 13 pts each.
Ramle: Stacy 25 pts.

Maccabi Rishon-Hapoel Jerusalem (1st league) 82-72

Top scorers:
Rishon:Kitchen 25 pts+11 boards.
Jerusalem:Mizrachi 16 pts.

Habika'a-Haifa (1st league) 82-76.

Top scorers:
Habika'a Daleny 21 pts.
Haifa: Wilkerson+Landsberg 17 pts each.

Holon-Netaniya (1st league) 106-66.

Top scorers:
Holon: Lewis 36 pts.
Netaniya: Hicks 19 pts.

Tonight Maccabi Tel Aviv will compete Bnei Hasharon to get the Q-Finals ticket.

The Q-Finals draw:
Hapoel Tel Aviv-Maccabi Rishon.
Hapoel Holon-Ironi Ashkelon.
The winner of tonight's game-Hapoel Afula.
Maccabi Ashdod-Maccabi Habika'a

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

ITALY

Callahan's 25 points and 6 rebounds give him Lega2 Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old forward Craig Callahan (203-F-81, agency: Court Side) put on an amazing game in the last round for Enel Brindisi and receives a Eurobasket.com Lega2 Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had the game-high 25 points adding six rebounds for Enel Brindisi in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Givova Scafati (#7, 8-6) with 29-point margin 100-71. Enel Brindisi is placed at 4th position in Italian Lega2. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Enel Brindisi will need more victories to improve their 9-5 record. In the team's last game Callahan had a remarkable 81.8% from 2-point range. He turned to be Enel Brindisi's top player in his first season with the team. Craig Callahan averages this season 12.0ppg and 6.1rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Mike Green (185-G-85) of Sigma Barcel.. He is American guard in his first season at Sigma Barcel.. In the last game Green recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 10 assists. Of course Sigma Barcel. cruised to a 89-78 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Biancoblu BO (#14, 4-10). This victory allowed Sigma Barcel. to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Green is a newcomer at Sigma Barcel. and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Dwayne Anderson (198-F-86) of Morpho Basket (#5). Anderson scored 15 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Morpho Basket, leading his team to a 88-67 easy win against the lower-ranked Tezenis Verona (#8, 6-8). Morpho Basket needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 5 lost games. Anderson has a great season in Italy. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.6rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jeff Brooks (203-F-89) of Fileni BPA - 22 points and 9 rebounds
5. Mario West (196-G-84) of Tezenis Verona - 22 points and 5 rebounds
6. Antonio Porta (188-G-83) of Tezenis Verona - 20 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Alan Voskuil (191-G-86) of Morpho Basket - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni BPA - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Dejan Borovnjak (208-F/C-86) of Enel Brindisi - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Philip Martin (202-F-80) of Sigma Barcel. - 14 points and 8 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)

Brown's 28 points and 6 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old Brandon Brown (202-C/F-81) put on an amazing game in the last round for Banca Tercas and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had the game-high 28 points adding six rebounds and three assists for Banca Tercas in his team's victory, helping them to beat Armani MI (#2, 10-4) 74-68. Banca Tercas is placed at 16th position in Italian league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 10 games and recorded just four victories. In the team's last game Brown had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Banca Tercas' top player in his first season with the team. Brandon Brown averages this season 12.1ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Mustafa Shakur (192-G-84) of Novipiu CM. He is American guard in his first season at Novipiu CM. In the last game Shakur recorded impressive 24 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists. Bad luck as Novipiu CM was edged by the higher-ranked Acea Roma (#11, 7-8) 93-92. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Novipiu CM dropped in the standings to very bottom position. 10 lost games are too many comparing to just four victories Novipiu CM managed to get this year. Shakur is a newcomer at Novipiu CM and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.8ppg (#1). He also recorded 4.0 assists per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) of Lottomatica (#11). Djedovic scored 22 points. He was a key player of Acea Roma, leading his team to a 93-92 win against the lower-ranked Novipiu CM (#17, 4-10). The chances of Acea Roma ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Djedovic could help Acea Roma to bring them higher in the standings. Djedovic has a very solid season. In 15 games in Italy he scored 11.5ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. David Andersen (212-C-80) of Montepaschi - 23 points and 11 rebounds
5. David Moss (196-F-83) of Montepaschi - 22 points and 11 rebounds
6. Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79) of Fabi Shoes - 12 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) of Armani MI - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Ricky Hickman (189-PG-85) of Scavolini PS - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) of CS Bologna - 22 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Uros Slokar (210-F/C-83) of Acea Roma - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists

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)

Nazionale A Round 18: Bari takes over a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Bari as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Bari edged 6th ranked Anagni at home 71-69. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Anagni won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bari made 24-of-28 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Anagni helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for center Domenico Morena (210-70) who led his team to a victory with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81) contributed with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. The former international guard Riccardo Santolamazza (195-83) replied with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for Anagni. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Casalpusterlengo and Recanati. Anagni lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Firenze and Comsum.it SI. Anagni will play next round against strong Orlandina trying to get back on the winning streak. Bari will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Latina Basket on the road.
Sixth-ranked Ruvo (2-16) was very close to win a game against first ranked Recanati (10-8). Recanati managed to secure only one-point victory 70-69. However their fans expected much easier game. Guard Marco Evangelisti (198-84) scored 17 points and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and Attilio Pierini chipped in 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was Marco Tagliabue (206-86) with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds. Ruvo's coach Giulio Cadeo rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Recanati have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-8 record, which they share with Casalpusterlengo and Bari. Ruvo lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with 16 games lost. Recanati will play against Chieti (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Ruvo will play against the league's leader Napoli and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Siena between Comsum.it SI and Perugia. Fifth ranked Comsum.it SI (6-12) got a very close home victory over one of their biggest challengers Perugia (8-10). Comsum.it SI managed to escape with a 2-point win 76-74 on Saturday evening. Amedeo Tessitori notched 20 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Even 18 points and 5 rebounds by Riccardo Truccolo did not help to save the game for Perugia. Perugia's coach Furio Steffe tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Comsum.it SI moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Firenze and Anagni. Perugia lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Comsum.it SI will meet league's leader Omegna on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Perugia will play against the league's leader Trento and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Trieste (11-6) against sixth ranked Pavia (8-10) on Sunday night. Visiting Trieste was crushed by Pavia in Pavia 68-49. The best player for the winners was Riccardo Pederzini who scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Pavia moved-up to third place, which they share with 4 other teams. Trieste at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. Pavia's next round opponent will be Castelletto (#6) on the road. Trieste will play against the league's second-placed Torino (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Mazzeo San Severo (8-10) which hosted in San Severo one of their biggest challengers Latina Basket (8-10). Fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo managed to get a 7-point victory 60-53. It was a good game for Fabio Lovatti who led his team to a victory with 14 points. Mazzeo San Severo moved-up to third place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Latina Basket. Mazzeo San Severo will face Matera (#5) on the road in the next round. Latina Basket will play against the league's leader Bari and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 18: Fabriano was smashed by Napoli on the road 81-55. Orlandina won against Matera on its own court 92-80. Chieti unfortunately lost to Ferentino in a road game 73-78. Santarcangelo was rolled over Omegna at home 42-83. Castelletto was defeated by Casalpusterlengo on the opponent's court 83-69. Trento beat Treviglio in a home game 81-65. Firenze lost to Torino on the road 78-93.
The most impressive performance of 18th round was 23 points by Fabio Zanelli of Orlandina.

Napoli - Fabriano 81-55

No shocking result in a game when first ranked Napoli (14-4) crushed at home 5th ranked Fabriano (5-13) 81-55 on Monday. The game without a history. Napoli led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Fabriano's 34. They outrebounded Fabriano 40-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Power forward Paolo Rotondo (205-89, agency: Players Group) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four Napoli players scored in double figures. Napoli's coach Maurizio Bartocci felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Alessio Iardella (187-88) replied with 12 points and the former international forward Mario Gigena (198-77) added 14 points in the effort for Fabriano. Napoli have a solid four-game winning streak. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first position with 14-4 record. Fabriano lost third consecutive game. Fabriano at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fifth place with 13 games lost. Napoli will face Ruvo (#6) in Ruvo di Puglia in the next round where they are favorite. Fabriano will play at home against Ferentino and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Napoli: B.Musso 18+5reb+3ast, P.Rotondo 12+11reb+2ast, S.Lenardon 12+1reb, A.Iannilli 10+11reb+1ast, N.Rizzitiello 10+3reb+2ast, N.Sabbatino 7+3reb+6ast
Fabriano: M.Gigena 14+1reb, A.Iardella 12+3reb+2ast, L.Usberti 8+5reb+1ast, N.Manuel Stanic 6+2reb+2ast, G.Sgobba 6+4reb, M.Trapella 3+6reb

Orlandina - Matera 92-80

Rather expected game when 5th ranked Matera (7-11) lost on the road to second ranked Orlandina (12-6) 92-80 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Orlandina. Matera was better in third quarter 27-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game. Orlandina outrebounded Matera 37-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Orlandina especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. It was a good game for the former international guard Fabio Zanelli (196-76) who led his team to a victory with 23 points. Forward Nicholas Crow (199-89) contributed with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Argentinian guard Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) replied with 20 points and 6 assists and power forward Cristiano Grappasonni (204-72) added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Matera. Four Orlandina and five Matera players scored in double figures. Orlandina have a solid four-game winning streak. Newly promoted Orlandina maintains second position with 12-6 record having just two points less than leader Trento, which they share with Ferentino. Loser Matera keeps the fifth place with 11 games lost. Orlandina will face Anagni (#6) on the road in the next round. Matera will play against Mazzeo San Severo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Orlandina: F.Zanelli 23+4reb+2ast, G.Zampolli 19+2reb+2ast, N.Crow 17+6reb+1ast, A.Benevelli 10+7reb+1ast, N.Damiani 9+9reb+2ast, F.Alessandri 4+2reb+3ast
Matera: S.Vico 20+3reb+6ast, G.Cantagalli 16+2ast, L.Tardito 11+4reb, C.Grappasonni 10+5reb+4ast, A.Pilotti 10+2reb, P.Aprea 8+2reb+1ast

San Severo - Latina Basket 60-53

An interesting game for Mazzeo San Severo (8-10) which hosted in San Severo one of their biggest challengers Latina Basket (8-10). Fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo managed to get a 7-point victory 60-53. The hosts trailed by 8 points at the halftime before their 31-16 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Mazzeo San Severo dominated on the defensive end, holding Latina Basket to just 4 points in third quarter. They made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. Mazzeo San Severo forced 22 Latina Basket turnovers. It was a good game for swingman Fabio Lovatti (194-89) who led his team to a victory with 14 points. Swingman Ivan Scarponi (196-86) contributed with 11 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Mazzeo San Severo players scored in double figures. Naturalized Serbian forward Marko Micevic (198-89) replied with 18 points and 8 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and guard Tommaso Milani (190-88) added 12 points in the effort for Latina Basket. Mazzeo San Severo moved-up to third place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Latina Basket. Mazzeo San Severo will face Matera (#5) on the road in the next round. Latina Basket will play against the league's leader Bari and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
San Severo: F.Lovatti 14+3reb+3ast, R.Marzoli 12+6reb+1ast, I.Scarponi 11+6reb+3ast, G.Fattori 10+5reb+1ast, F.Amoroso 7+5reb, M.Poluzzi 4+2reb+1ast
Latina Basket: M.Micevic 18+8reb, T.Milani 12+3reb, R.Romano 6+3reb, R.Serena 5+2reb, G.Gazzotti 4+3reb, T.Plateo 4+2reb

Recanati - Ruvo 70-69

Sixth-ranked Ruvo (2-16) was very close to win a game against first ranked Recanati (10-8). Recanati managed to secure only one-point victory 70-69. However their fans expected much easier game. It looked good early as Ruvo took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Recanati had a 35-25 second period charge getting the lead and Ruvo was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 69-70. Guard Marco Evangelisti (198-84) scored 17 points and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and forward Attilio Pierini (201-81) chipped in 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four Recanati players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Marco Tagliabue (206-86) with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds and power forward Frederic Emejuru (203-88) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Ruvo's coach Giulio Cadeo rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Recanati have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-8 record, which they share with Casalpusterlengo and Bari. Ruvo lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with 16 games lost. Recanati will play against Chieti (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Ruvo will play against the league's leader Napoli and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Recanati: M.Evangelisti 17+3reb+3ast, A.Pierini 12+7reb+4ast, M.Ceron 11+1reb+2ast, F.Gilardi 10+3reb+3ast, R.Fossati 8+5reb+6ast, A.Cecchetti 7+4reb
Ruvo: M.Tagliabue 17+11reb+1ast, F.Emejuru 14+5reb+2ast, S.Zanotti 14+3reb+2ast, D.Merletto 8+1reb+1ast, P.de Martino 5+1reb, C.Villani 5+5reb+1ast

Bari - Anagni 71-69

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Bari as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Bari edged 6th ranked Anagni at home 71-69. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Anagni won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bari made 24-of-28 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Anagni helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for center Domenico Morena (210-70) who led his team to a victory with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81) contributed with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. The former international guard Riccardo Santolamazza (195-83) replied with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Players Group) added 11 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Anagni. Four Anagni players scored in double figures. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Casalpusterlengo and Recanati. Anagni lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Firenze and Comsum.it SI. Anagni will play next round against strong Orlandina trying to get back on the winning streak. Bari will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Latina Basket on the road.
Top scorers:
Bari: D.Morena 19+8reb+2ast, A.Ruggiero 17+5reb+6ast, M.Cardillo 15+3reb, M.Bona 8+4reb+1ast, S.Gigena 8+6reb, D.Barozzi 4+8reb
Anagni: R.Santolamazza 20+5reb+4ast, J.Pozzi 13+3reb+1ast, N.Benedusi 12+3reb+2ast, D.Corral 11+9reb, A.Zanelli 8+2reb+4ast, F.Vanni 2+2reb

Ferentino - Chieti 78-73

There was a small surprise when third ranked Ferentino (12-6) won against at home one of their biggest challengers Chieti (9-9) 78-73 on Sunday. Ferentino made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Chieti turnovers. It was a good game for swingman Salvatore Parrillo (190-92) who led his team to a victory with 15 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Francesco Ihedioha (196-86) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. The former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 14 rebounds and naturalized San Marino swingman Andrea Raschi (200-79) added 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Chieti. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ferentino moved-up to second place, which they share with Orlandina. Newly promoted Chieti keeps the third position with nine games lost. Ferentino will face Fabriano (#5) in the next round. Chieti will play against the league's second-placed Recanati and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ferentino: F.Guarino 15+2reb+5ast, S.Parrillo 15+8reb+2ast, L.Panzini 13, A.Iannuzzi 12+6reb+1ast, F.Ihedioha 12+11reb, G.Andrea Fratini 8+3reb+2ast
Chieti: A.Porfido 16+4reb, E.Rossi 12+14reb+3ast, S.Rajola 11+7reb+1ast, A.Raschi 11+8reb+4ast, A.Martelli 9+1ast, M.Diomede 8+2reb

Santarcangelo - Omegna 42-83

Not a big story in a game when 6th ranked Santarcangelo (4-14) was outscored by first ranked Omegna (15-2) in Sant'Arcangelo 83-42 on Saturday. The game without a history. Omegna led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Santarcangelo to just 7 points in second and fourth quarters. Omegna forced 20 Santarcangelo turnovers. Strangely Santarcangelo outrebounded Omegna 39-23 including a 13-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for guard Tommaso Raspino (196-89, agency: Players Group) who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Naturalized Ivorian guard Mohamed Toure (189-92) contributed with 13 points for the winners. Four Omegna players scored in double figures. Forward Jacopo Silimbani (202-86) replied with 10 points and 9 rebounds and center Andrea Ancellotti (212-88) added 9 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Santarcangelo. Omegna maintains first position with 15-2 record. Santarcangelo lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the sixth place with 14 games lost. Omegna will face Comsum.it SI (#5) in Siena in the next round. Santarcangelo will play on the road against Treviglio.
Top scorers:
Omegna: T.Raspino 17+6reb+1ast, P.Picazio 13, M.Toure 13+2reb+2ast, D.Casadei 12+2reb, S.Masciadri 7+3reb+1ast, M.Bertolazzi 6+2reb+2ast
Santarcangelo: J.Silimbani 10+9reb, A.Ancellotti 9+9reb, N.Italiano 6+6reb+1ast, L.Pesaresi 5+1reb, L.Bedetti 4+1reb, G.Broglia 4+6reb+1ast

Casalpusterlengo - Castelletto 83-69

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo's (10-8) home victory over 5th ranked Castelletto (8-10) 83-69 on Sunday. Casalpusterlengo made 21-of-23 free shots (91.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Castelletto turnovers. It was a good game for guard Federico Loschi (195-90) who led his team to a victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Roberto Prandin (188-86) contributed with 18 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) for the winners. Casalpusterlengo's coach Simone Lottici used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Matteo Raminelli (203-83) replied with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks and the former international swingman Simone Cotani (201-81) added 11 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Castelletto. Four Castelletto players scored in double figures. Casalpusterlengo keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Bari and Recanati. Loser Castelletto dropped to the third place with ten games lost. Casalpusterlengo will face Firenze (#4) on the road in the next round. Castelletto will play against Pavia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Casalpusterlengo: R.Prandin 18+1reb+1ast, F.Loschi 16+5reb, M.Contento 11+3reb+2ast, P.Biligha 8+4reb+1ast, R.Castelli 7+4reb, A.Chiumenti 7+6reb
Castelletto: M.Raminelli 20+7reb, S.Ferrarese 15+4ast, S.Cotani 11+12reb+2ast, F.Dri 11+3reb+1ast, A.Piazza 6+1reb, A.Iannone 4+4reb+1ast

Pavia - Trieste 68-49

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Trieste (11-6) against sixth ranked Pavia (8-10) on Sunday night. Visiting Trieste was crushed by Pavia in Pavia 68-49. The game without a history. Pavia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 22 Trieste turnovers. The best player for the winners was forward Riccardo Pederzini (198-89) who scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Luca Furlanetto (197-81) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Innocenzo Ferraro (200-82) who recorded 13 points and 9 rebounds and forward Luca Gandini (205-85) added 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Pavia moved-up to third place, which they share with 4 other teams. Trieste at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. Pavia's next round opponent will be Castelletto (#6) on the road. Trieste will play against the league's second-placed Torino (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pavia: R.Pederzini 15+6reb+3ast, L.Furlanetto 13+4reb+4ast, D.Bozzetto 10+2reb+1ast, F.Maiocco 10+4reb+1ast, S.Borgna 9+3reb+2ast, R.Maggio 5+4reb+2ast
Trieste: I.Ferraro 13+9reb+2ast, D.Mastrangelo 9+3reb, L.Gandini 8+5reb+3ast, M.Carra 7+3reb, M.Ruzzier 6+2ast, A.Moruzzi 2+8reb

Trento - Treviglio 81-65

There was no surprise when 3rd ranked Treviglio (11-7) lost on the road to first ranked Trento (13-5) 81-65 on Sunday. The game without a history. Trento led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 20 Treviglio turnovers. Trento shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 63.6 percentage. It was a good game for center Marco Pazzi (203-79) who led his team to a victory with 27 points and 6 rebounds. The former international guard Luca Conte (193-80) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Andrea Vitale (199-82, agency: Interperformances) replied with 24 points and 7 rebounds and center Jacopo Borra (212-90) added 10 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Treviglio. Trento have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 13-5 record, which they share with Torino. Loser Treviglio keeps the third place with seven games lost. Trento will face Perugia (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Treviglio will play against Santarcangelo in Sant'Arcangelo.
Top scorers:
Trento: M.Pazzi 27+6reb+2ast, L.Conte 18+6reb+2ast, W.Santarossa 11+3reb+1ast, A.Forray 8+3reb+2ast, M.Spanghero 7+2ast, M.Negri 6+4reb+2ast
Treviglio: A.Vitale 24+7reb+3ast, J.Borra 10+10reb+1ast, N.Cazzolato 9+3ast, R.Marulli 8+3ast, G.Zanella 7+6reb+1ast, L.Molinaro 4+6reb

Torino - Firenze 93-78

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Torino (13-5) beat at home 4th ranked Firenze (6-12) 93-78 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Torino. Firenze was better in second period 16-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Firenze's 42. They outrebounded Firenze 37-23 including a 25-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for guard Marco Portannese (192-89, agency: Players Group) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Luca Fontecchio (202-91, agency: Players Group) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Torino's coach Filippo Faina used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Stefano Spizzichini (202-90) replied with 17 points and the former international center Federico Bellina (205-79, agency: Players Group) added 18 points in the effort for Firenze. Four Torino and five Firenze players scored in double figures. Torino have a solid four-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Trento. Newly promoted Firenze keeps the fourth place with 12 games lost. Torino will face league's second-placed Trieste on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Firenze will play against Casalpusterlengo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Torino: L.Fontecchio 17+5reb+1ast, M.Portannese 17+11reb+4ast, C.Masper 16+5reb, F.Tassinari 15+5reb, M.DeFant 9+1reb, F.Conti 7+3reb+1ast
Firenze: F.Bellina 18+3reb, S.Spizzichini 17+4reb, D.Scodavolpe 14+1reb, M.Sanna 14+3reb, A.Amici 10+6reb+2ast, A.Giampaoli 3+1reb+2ast

Comsum.it SI - Perugia 76-74

A very close game took place in Siena between Comsum.it SI and Perugia. Fifth ranked Comsum.it SI (6-12) got a very close home victory over one of their biggest challengers Perugia (8-10). Comsum.it SI managed to escape with a 2-point win 76-74 on Saturday evening. Perugia trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 27-18 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-76 at the end of the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Comsum.it SI made 7 blocks. Center Amedeo Tessitori (205-94) notched 20 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and forward Stefano Simeoli (200-86) supported him with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Even 18 points and 5 rebounds by Riccardo Truccolo (190-89) did not help to save the game for Perugia. Davide Poltroneri (195-85) added 16 points and 6 rebounds. Perugia's coach Furio Steffe tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Comsum.it SI moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Firenze and Anagni. Perugia lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Comsum.it SI will meet league's leader Omegna on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Perugia will play against the league's leader Trento and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Comsum.it SI: A.Tessitori 20+9reb+1ast, S.Simeoli 14+9reb+3ast, N.Mei 14+4reb, G.Spizzichini 9+9reb+3ast, C.Bianconi 8+3reb, M.Pascolo 6+4reb
Perugia: R.Truccolo 18+5reb, D.Poltroneri 16+6reb, M.Caroldi 10+2reb+2ast, C.Cutolo 9, L.Bisconti 8+2reb, O.Kuschev 6+4reb

stats leader

Points Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.2

1. Musso, Napoli	19.2
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	19.1
3. Portannese, Torino	16.9
4. Mei, Comsum.it SI	15.9
5. Prandin, Casalp.	15.8
6. Carrizo, Ferentino	15.6
7. Zanelli, Orlandina	15.3
8. Benevelli, Orlandi.	15.2
9. Tessitori, Comsum..	15.0
10. Carra, Trieste	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Rossi, Chieti	11.9
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.9
3. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.6
4. Borra, Treviglio	8.4
5. Tessitori, Comsum..	8.3
6. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	8.3
7. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.3
8. Raminelli, Castell.	7.7
9. Ferraro, Trieste	7.7
10. Gandini, Trieste	7.4

Assists Per Game

Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 5

1. Bertolazzi, Omegna	5.0
2. Musso, Napoli	3.7
3. Stanic, Fabriano	3.5
4. Vico, Matera	3.4
5. Guarino, Ferentino	3.2
6. Zanelli, Orlandina	3.2
7. Forray, Trento	3.1
8. Ferrarese, Castell.	2.9
9. Parente, Torino	2.8
10. Rivali, Santarcan.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Iardella, Fabriano	3.7
2. Bertolazzi, Omegna	3.3
3. Portannese, Torino	3.1
4. Musso, Napoli	2.9
5. Pilotti, Matera	2.9
6. Guarino, Ferentino	2.9
7. Amici, Firenze	2.9
8. Stanic, Fabriano	2.9
9. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
10. Rossi, Chieti	2.8

Blocks Per Game

Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.4
2. Borra, Treviglio	1.4
3. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.3
4. Candido, San Seve.	1.3
5. Benevelli, Orlandi.	1.1
6. Cazzaniga, Pavia	1.1
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	1.1
8. Raminelli, Castell.	0.9
9. Feliciangeli, Chie.	0.9
10. Biligha, Casalp.	0.9

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trento		13-5
2. Trieste		11-6
3. Perugia		8-10
4. Firenze		6-12
5. Comsum.it SI		6-12
6. Santarcangelo		4-14
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		15-2
2. Torino		13-5
3. Treviglio		11-7
4. Casalpusterlengo		10-8
5. Pavia		8-10
6. Castelletto		8-10
Div.South-East
1. Bari		10-8
2. Recanati		10-8
3. Chieti		9-9
4. San Severo		8-10
5. Fabriano		5-13
6. Ruvo		2-16
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		14-4
2. Orlandina		12-6
3. Ferentino		12-6
4. Latina Basket		8-10
5. Matera		7-11
6. Anagni		6-12

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

JAPAN

BJ League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael PARKER
  Shimane SM
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 23.5

1. Parker, Shimane SM	23.5
2. Palmer, Fukuoka	21.3
3. Hargrow, Chiba J.	21.0
4. White, Oita H.	20.4
5. Humphrey, Saitama	19.9
6. Flowers, Saitama	19.9
7. Staten, Chiba Jets	19.6
8. Kennedy, Iwate B.	19.5
9. Gardener, Akita NH	19.4
10. Burrell, Yokohama.	19.4

Rebounds Per Game

Chris HOLM
  Niigata Albirex
  (212-C/F-84)
  Avg: 14.5

1. Holm, Niigata Albi.	14.5
2. Hamilton, Fukuok.	10.8
3. Roberts, Shins.	10.8
4. Malloy, Iwate B.	10.8
5. Staten, Chiba Jets	10.5
6. Mims, Sendai 89ers	10.4
7. Rickert, Kyoto H.	10.3
8. Allred, Kyoto H.	10.3
9. Blackledge, Osaka	10.0
10. Dora, Miyazaki SS	10.0

Assists Per Game

Kenny SATTERFIELD
  Saitam.
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Satterfield, Saita.	7.1
2. Gardener, Akita NH	5.6
3. Yamamoto, Shima.	5.6
4. Shimura, Sendai	5.2
5. Dixon, Hamamats.	4.9
6. Takushi, Oita H.	4.8
7. Yamamoto, Iwate B.	4.8
8. Namizato, Okina.	4.5
9. Dukes, Sendai 89e.	4.5
10. Shimizu, Miyazaki.	4.5

Steals Per Game

Jamel STATEN
  Chiba Jets
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Staten, Chiba Jets	3.1
2. Palmer, Fukuoka	3.0
3. Parker, Shimane SM	2.6
4. Humphrey, Saitama	2.5
5. Hamilton, Fukuok.	2.2
6. Arnold, Hamamats.	2.1
7. Lyons, Miyazaki SS	1.9
8. Golson, Shimane SM	1.8
9. Satterfield, Saita.	1.8
10. Gardener, Akita NH	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jeral DAVIS
  Shimane SM
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Davis, Shimane SM	3.5
2. Blackledge, Osaka	3.0
3. Singleton, Sendai	2.5
4. Hughes, Shinshu BW	1.6
5. Mims, Sendai 89ers	1.6
6. Dukes, Sendai 89e.	1.5
7. Flowers, Saitama	1.5
8. Moliva, Chiba Jets	1.4
9. Marshall, Osaka E.	1.4
10. Ocitti, Akita NH	1.3

Money And Basketball - by Emeka Eke
It is no longer news that basketball players are ranked amongst the wealthiest sports personalities in the world. What remains unclear however, is weather Japanese basketball stars are ranked in this category. Recently, i was asked by ESPN to provide details of how much money Japanese basketball players earned. Quite frankly, ESPN was right in its conclusion that the financial status' of Japanese basketball stars was stereotyped when compared to that of their American counterparts.

Much as it is an acceptable believe that basketball remains one of the most lucrative sports in North America, it is also believed to be as profitable in Japan whatwith the array of sponsors it has.
In terms of popularity, basketbal, save for the U.S, may not hold sway as much as soccer or tennis does but it sure has produced some of the wealthiest sports personalities of all time. The likes of Shaq and Kobe are clear examples; but the most notable among them is Michael Jordan (Rtd) of the Chicago Bulls who was rated the highest paid sports personality in 1998 with an annual income of $78m. He was preceded by Mike Tyson in 1997.

Japanese BJ League round 27 best performance: Justin Burrell - by Eurobasket News
American forward Justin Burrell (235-F-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Yokohama BC, receiving a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 27.
The 23-year old player had a double-double of 33 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Saitama Bron. (#9, 7-16) 80-68. Yokohama BC maintains the 7th position in Japanese BJ League. Yokohama BC is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 10-13 record. Burrell turned to be Yokohama BC's top player in his first season with the team. Justin Burrell averages this season 19.4ppg and 9.6rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Tyler Hughes (213-F-84) of Shinshu BW. Hughes had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Shinshu BW cruised to a 75-64 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Iwate Big Bulls (#10, 7-18). Shinshu BW's 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-13 record. Hughes is a newcomer at Shinshu BW and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third on the list of top players last round was American LaShawn Malloy (209-C/F-84) of Iwate Big Bulls (#10). Malloy scored 18 points and grabbed twenty rebounds (!!!). Despite Malloy's great performance Iwate Big Bulls lost 64-75 to slightly higher-ranked Shinshu BW (#8, 10-13). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Iwate Big Bulls can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 7-18 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Malloy he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Malloy has individually a great season in Japan. After 24 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 11.0rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Curtis Terry (196-G/F-85) of Akita NH - 36 points and 4 rebounds
5. Derek Raivio (190-G-84) of Shinshu BW - 27 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Michael Parker (202-F-81) of Shimane SM - 19 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Nyika Williams (203-C-87) of Takamatsu FA - 18 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Johnny Dukes (203-F-84) of Sendai 89ers - 28 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Lance Allred (211-C-81) of Kyoto Hannar. - 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Rick Rickert (211-F-83) of Kyoto Hannar. - 16 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists

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)

BJ League Round 28: Kyoto Hannar. beats Sendai 89ers in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Sendai. Fourth ranked Kyoto Hannar. faced one of their biggest challengers Sendai 89ers. Guests from Kyoto (16-6) defeated host Sendai 89ers (12-12) 87-74. The game was mostly controlled by Kyoto Hannar.. Sendai 89ers managed to win second period 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kyoto Hannar. made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game, while Sendai 89ers only scored six points from the stripe. They outrebounded Sendai 89ers 43-27 including 17 on the offensive glass. 27 personal fouls committed by Sendai 89ers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. Center Lance Allred (211-81, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Forward Rick Rickert (211-83, college: Minnesota, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Daniel Fitzgerald (206-84, college: Marquette) produced 23 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. Kyoto Hannar. moved-up to third place. Sendai 89ers at the other side keep the fourth position with 12 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. are looking forward to face Takamatsu FA (#9) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Sendai 89ers will play against Toyama Grouses (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Leader Akita Happinets delivered the fifteenth victory. This time they beat 5th ranked Toyama Grouses (10-12) 73-58. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Ricky Woods (194-84, college: SE Louisiana) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. Curtis Terry contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Devin Searcy (208-89, college: Dayton, agency: Pro One Sports) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds for Toyama Grouses. Akita Happinets maintains first position with 15-9 record, which they share with Niigata Albirex and Fukuoka Rizing. Toyama Grouses lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the sixth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Chiba Jets. Akita Happinets will play against Chiba Jets (#7) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Toyama Grouses will play against Sendai 89ers and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Shimane was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Shiga L-Stars (16-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Shimane Magic (13-11). Shiga L-Stars defeated Shimane Magic 79-64 on Sunday. Worth to mention a great performance of Dionisio Gomez Camargo who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds. At the losing side Michael Parker responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Shiga L-Stars maintains fourth position with 16-8 record. Loser Shimane Magic keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Shiga L-Stars will meet at home league's leader Okinawa GK in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Shimane Magic will play against Shinshu BW (#5) in Nagano and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Miyazaki was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Niigata Albirex (15-9) played at the court of 7th ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (12-14). Niigata Albirex defeated Miyazaki Shining Suns 94-80. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Miyazaki Shining Suns. American players dominated the game. The winners were led by Chris Holm who had that evening a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. Niigata Albirex keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Fukuoka Rizing and Akita NH. Miyazaki Shining Suns at the other side keep the seventh place with 14 games lost. Niigata Albirex's next round opponent will be Yokohama BC (#8) at home and are hoping to win another game. Miyazaki Shining Suns will play against Fukuoka Rizing and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Nagano. Local Shinshu BW (11-13) beat 10th ranked Iwate Big Bulls (7-19) 85-67 on Sunday night. Lee Roberts fired 22 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Shinshu BW moved-up to fifth place. Loser Iwate Big Bulls keep the tenth position with 19 games lost. Shinshu BW will face Shimane Magic (#6) on the road in the next round. Iwate Big Bulls will play against Hamamatsu Phoenix (#3) in Mikawa.

In the last game of round 28 Osaka Evessa defeated Takamatsu FA in a road game 75-62.

Shimane SM - Shiga L-Stars 64-79

The game in Shimane was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Shiga L-Stars (16-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Shimane Magic (13-11). Shiga L-Stars defeated Shimane Magic 79-64 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Shiga L-Stars. Shimane Magic managed to win third quarter 10-8. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and American forward Ray Nixon (203-84, college: Wisconsin) who added 17 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Four Shiga L-Stars players scored in double figures. At the losing side American forward Michael Parker (202-81, college: Evergreen St.) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Reggie Golson (201-81, college: SE Missouri St., agency: Court Side) scored 18 points and 4 steals. Shiga L-Stars maintains fourth position with 16-8 record. Loser Shimane Magic keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Shiga L-Stars will meet at home league's leader Okinawa GK in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Shimane Magic will play against Shinshu BW (#5) in Nagano and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shiga L-Stars: D.Gomez Camargo 22+10reb+2ast, R.Nixon 17+5reb, J.Peppers 16+3reb+2ast, Y.Okada 13+1reb+6ast, S.Ogawa 7+2reb+1ast, J.Ashby 2+3reb
Shimane SM: R.Golson 18+4reb+2ast, M.Parker 17+8reb+2ast, B.Puckett 14+6reb, J.Davis 6+8reb, T.Yokoo 3+3ast, K.Yamabuchi 2+2reb+1ast

Takamatsu FA - Osaka Evessa 62-75

There was no surprise when 9th ranked Takamatsu FA (1-23) was defeated at home by second ranked Osaka Evessa (17-5) 75-62 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Osaka Evessa. Takamatsu FA was better in fourth quarter 23-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Lynn Washington (200-78, college: Indiana) fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his ten free throws !!!) for the winners. Guard Cohey Aoki (167-80) chipped in 21 points (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Osaka Evessa's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Kevin Smith (195-89, college: Richmond) produced 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals and his fellow American import forward Michael Nunnally (203-86, college: Pacific) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Takamatsu FA players scored in double figures. Osaka Evessa have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 17-5 record having 2 victories less than leader Akita NH. Takamatsu FA lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 23 games lost. Osaka Evessa will face Oita Heat Devils (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Takamatsu FA will play against Kyoto Hannar..
Top scorers:
Osaka Evessa: C.Aoki 21+2reb+2ast, L.Washington 18+10reb+4ast, L.Payne 8+5reb, L.Blackledge 7+7reb+3ast, M.Obuchi 7+3reb+1ast, W.Marshall 6+3reb
Takamatsu FA: K.Smith 17+6reb+6ast, M.Nunnally 14+6reb, H.Kikuchi 11+1reb+3ast, N.Williams 10+6reb, S.Takada 8+3reb+1ast, M.Suzuki 2+1ast

Miyazaki SS - Niigata Albirex 80-94

The game in Miyazaki was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Niigata Albirex (15-9) played at the court of 7th ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (12-14). Niigata Albirex defeated Miyazaki Shining Suns 94-80. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Miyazaki Shining Suns. The game was mostly controlled by Niigata Albirex. Miyazaki Shining Suns was better in fourth quarter 33-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Niigata Albirex forced 24 Miyazaki Shining Suns turnovers. American players dominated the game. The winners were led by power forward Chris Holm (212-84, college: Vermont) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds and guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) supported him with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Five Niigata Albirex players scored in double figures. Even 22 points and 5 rebounds by swingman Dexter Lyons (198-81, college: Cent.Florida, agency: I.D.S. Law) did not help to save the game for Miyazaki Shining Suns. Power forward Lewis Witcher (207-87, college: Virginia Tech) added 13 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Niigata Albirex keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Fukuoka Rizing and Akita NH. Miyazaki Shining Suns at the other side keep the seventh place with 14 games lost. Niigata Albirex's next round opponent will be Yokohama BC (#8) at home and are hoping to win another game. Miyazaki Shining Suns will play against Fukuoka Rizing and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Niigata Albirex: E.Maxey 23+5reb, N.Murry 20+8reb+3ast, C.Holm 18+13reb+1ast, Y.Ikeda 14+4reb+2ast, S.Komatsu 10+1reb+3ast, R.Narumi 7
Miyazaki SS: D.Lyons 22+5reb+3ast, L.Witcher 13+9reb+1ast, O.Shinnosuke 11+3ast, T.Masato 10, D.Dora 9+6reb+1ast, O.Mims 8+5reb+1ast

Akita NH - Toyama Grouses 73-58

Leader Akita Happinets delivered the fifteenth victory. This time they beat 5th ranked Toyama Grouses (10-12) 73-58. Toyama Grouses were ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 47-29 second half run of Akita Happinets. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Ricky Woods (194-84, college: SE Louisiana) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. Swingman Curtis Terry (196-85, college: UNLV) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Akita Happinets players scored in double figures. Power forward Devin Searcy (208-89, college: Dayton, agency: Pro One Sports) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds and swingman Brian Harper (206-85, college: Paine, agency: Pro One Sports) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Toyama Grouses. Akita Happinets maintains first position with 15-9 record, which they share with Niigata Albirex and Fukuoka Rizing. Toyama Grouses lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the sixth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Chiba Jets. Akita Happinets will play against Chiba Jets (#7) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Toyama Grouses will play against Sendai 89ers and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Akita NH: D.Sweetney 18+5reb+1ast, C.Terry 18+6reb+1ast, R.Woods 15+12reb+5ast, K.Shoji 13+5reb+1ast, R.Mizumachi 5+6reb+6ast, Y.Kikuchi 3+4ast
Toyama Grouses: B.Harper 12+5reb+2ast, D.Searcy 12+12reb+1ast, M.Joho 10+1reb+3ast, H.Johnson 8+4reb+1ast, I.Brown 7+3reb+1ast, T.Mito 6+7reb+4ast

Sendai 89ers - Kyoto Hannar. 74-87

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Sendai. Fourth ranked Kyoto Hannar. faced one of their biggest challengers Sendai 89ers. Guests from Kyoto (16-6) defeated host Sendai 89ers (12-12) 87-74. The game was mostly controlled by Kyoto Hannar.. Sendai 89ers managed to win second period 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kyoto Hannar. made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game, while Sendai 89ers only scored six points from the stripe. They outrebounded Sendai 89ers 43-27 including 17 on the offensive glass. 27 personal fouls committed by Sendai 89ers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. Center Lance Allred (211-81, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Forward Rick Rickert (211-83, college: Minnesota, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Four Kyoto Hannar. players scored in double figures. Forward Daniel Fitzgerald (206-84, college: Marquette) produced 23 points and 5 rebounds and forward Johnny Dukes (203-84, college: San Bernardino CC) added 17 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Kyoto Hannar. moved-up to third place. Sendai 89ers at the other side keep the fourth position with 12 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. are looking forward to face Takamatsu FA (#9) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Sendai 89ers will play against Toyama Grouses (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kyoto Hannar.: R.Rickert 18+5reb+2ast, L.Allred 14+13reb+1ast, N.Nakamura 11+3reb+4ast, J.Boyette 10+3reb+4ast, B.Camara 9+7reb, T.Murakami 8+3reb+3ast
Sendai 89ers: D.Fitzgerald 23+5reb+3ast, J.Dukes 17+5reb+5ast, F.Toncinic 16+3reb, K.Takahashi 8+1reb+1ast, T.Shimura 6+4reb+9ast, R.Singleton 2+6reb+2ast

Shinshu BW - Iwate Big Bulls 85-67

The game with biggest result difference took place in Nagano. Local Shinshu BW (11-13) beat 10th ranked Iwate Big Bulls (7-19) 85-67 on Sunday night. The game was mostly controlled by Shinshu BW. Iwate Big Bulls was better in third quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shinshu BW had a 34-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) fired 22 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The other American import power forward Edward Morris (205-84, college: Pittsburg St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Thomas Kennedy (201-87, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Global Sports Plaza) produced 31 points and 8 rebounds and Guyanese-American forward Gordon Klaiber (206-83, college: Fair Dickinson) added 11 points and 9 rebounds respectively for lost side. Shinshu BW moved-up to fifth place. Loser Iwate Big Bulls keep the tenth position with 19 games lost. Shinshu BW will face Shimane Magic (#6) on the road in the next round. Iwate Big Bulls will play against Hamamatsu Phoenix (#3) in Mikawa.
Top scorers:
Shinshu BW: L.Roberts 22+8reb+3ast, E.Morris 14+10reb, T.Saito 12+2reb+1ast, D.Raivio 12+2reb+7ast, Y.Suzuki 8+4reb+3ast, T.Hughes 8+10reb+1ast
Iwate Big Bulls: T.Kennedy 31+8reb+1ast, G.Klaiber 11+9reb, Y.Yamamoto 6+4reb+6ast, H.Kantake 6+2reb+1ast, L.Malloy 5+7reb+1ast, A.Nogami 4+1reb+2ast

Standings - BJ League

BJ Standings

Eastern
1. Akita NH		15-9
2. Niigata Albirex		15-9
3. Hamamatsu P.		13-10
4. Sendai 89ers		12-12
5. Shinshu BW		11-13
6. Toyama Grouses		10-12
7. Chiba Jets		10-12
8. Yokohama BC		10-13
9. Saitama Bron.		7-16
10. Iwate Big Bulls		7-19
Western
1. Okinawa GK		19-5
2. Osaka Evessa		17-5
3. Kyoto Hannar.		16-6
4. Shiga L-Stars		16-8
5. Fukuoka Rizing		15-9
6. Shimane SM		13-11
7. Miyazaki SS		12-14
8. Oita H.Devils		5-18
9. Takamatsu FA		1-23

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

JORDAN

2012 Season to kick off January 15th - by Omar Shafaamri
Jordan Premier League New Season will start in few days with Jordan Cup which will witness the participation of 7 clubs : ASU (Champion), Riyadi-Aramex (Runner up), Orthodoxi, Wehdat, Jalil, Ashrafiyah, & Kafar Youba . The League will begin in February and will last till May with the chance of seeing Imports for the first time since 3 years!

The Draw was made in a way that both ASU & Riyadi will meet only in the Final Game with Knock-out System, ASU will wait in Semi Final game the Winner between (Orthodoxi/Kafar Youba) while Riyadi will play Jalil , Wehdat will face Ashrafiyah .

Jordan Cup
ASU x (Orthodoxi/Kafar Youba)
(Riyadi/Jalil) x (Wehdat/Ashrafiyah)

Orthodoxi signs Al-Khas & Soobzokov
Orthodoxi club agreed the terms with NT Veterans Al-Khas Zaid (206-C/F-76, college: Gannon) and Enver Soobzokov (201-G/F-78, college: CS San Bernar.) to represent the club Team in the upcoming Season where their fellow Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) will wear the shirt of Riyadi-ramex starting from WABA League (11-15 January, Beirut).

Clubs Rosters till now
ASU
------------
Head Coach: Dr. Muntaser Abu Al Tayyeb
Mohammad Hamdan
Moussa Al Awadi
Abdullah Abu Koura
Wesam Al Sous
Mohammad Shaher
Islam Abbas
Mohammad Al Isawi
Ghazi Al Naber
Mohammad Azzazi (On loan from Ittiihad Schools)
Osama Al Faraj (On loan from Ittiihad Schools)
U-19 players (Such as Ahmad Nofal, Munir Idais & Fakhri Al Siyouri)

Kafar Youba
------------
Head Coach: Haitham Daher
Fadel Al Najjar
Nidal Al Shareef
Khaldoun Abu Rukayeah
Hani Al Faraj
Ahmad Hamarsheh
Ibrahim Bassam
Malek Khashan
Ahmad Shaker
Ahmad Habboush
Yousef Shatat
Ali Al Barbari
Qusai Al Anani

Al Riyadi:
------------
Head Coach: Motassem Salameh
Ali Al Zubi
Mohammad Jamal
Ali Jamal
Ahmad Obaid
Issa Kamel
Faisal Khair
Ayman Idais
Mohammad Al Shami
Ammar Bustami
Ammar Jabri
Fadi Al Saqa
U-19 players (Such as Ahmad Duwairi and Majdi Ghazawi)

Orthodox:
------------
Head Coach: Imad Al Said
Enver Soobzokov
Zaid Al Khas
Fares Saqf Al Hait
Shafi Fleifel
Khattab Al Okosh
Shaker Al Okosh
Amr Tkaidek
Tamer Qatami
Laith Al Abdallat
Ahmad Al Moughrabi
Nayef Asfour
U-19 players (Such as Ibrahim Abu Khadra and Saad Abu Anzeh)

Wehdat:
------------
Head Coach: Yousef Abu Baker
Alaa Bilbesi
Naser Al Alawneh
Moussa Mutlaq
Mohammad Hassouneh
Ali Al Saadi
Rami Al Khatib
Mohammad Idais
Moath Salameh
Zaid Sahouri
Mohammad Nuwarah
Ibrahim Barahmeh
Mohamamd Ameen
U-19 players (Such as Yousef Abu Wazaneh and Mohammad Idais)

College Sports Club:
------------
Head Coach: Fadi Yaghmour
Abdellatif Qaddoumi
Ahmad Kanaan
Omar Darwiesh
Tha'er Abu Khadra
Ibrahim Misswadeh
Ra'ed Oweis
Arafat Abu Khadra

Al Ashrafiyah:
------------
Head Coach: Saadi Khamees
Abdullah Thiabat
Saif Thiabat
Khaldoun Abu Jbarah
Ibrahim Mohammad
Musaab Al Hiloo
Sharaf Bani Hamad
Alaa Haidar
Bilal Abbasi
Mamoun Ali

Al Jalil:
------------
Head Coach: Ibrahim Al Asous
Ahmad Al Momani
Abdullah Fatouhi
Muqtada Mansour
Mohammad Al Hawamdeh
Salah Abdulrauf
Amjad Jamal Jbara
Mohammad Bakeer
Udai Abu Qamar
Hamza Al Zubi
Mohammad Khaled Abu Al Fahem
Laith Abu Rashed

*Thanks to Jordan National Basketball Team Page on Facebook

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

KUWAIT

Standings

D1 Standings

1. Al Jahraa		1-0
2. Al Kuwait		1-0
3. Al Qadsia		1-0
4. Al Sahel		0-1
5. Al Yarmook		0-1
6. Kazma		0-1

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

LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

1. BK VEF		15-0
2. Liepaja-2		15-1
3. Barons/Keizar.		14-2
4. Saldus		12-3
5. Riga		10-6
6. RSU		9-6
7. VA		9-8
8. VEF Kadeti		8-6
9. DSN		6-9
10. Cesis		5-11
11. Livani		5-11
12. Valmiera U21		4-12
13. Ogres		4-12
14. Jelgava/LLU		4-12
15. Ridzene		3-12
16. Gulbene		2-14

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

LITHUANIA

Lithuanian LKL round 12 best performance: Paulius Jankunas - by Eurobasket News
Former international forward Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84, agency: Interperformances) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Zalgiris, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 27-year old player was the main contributor (18 points, nine rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Lietuvos rytas (#1, 11-2) 82-72. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Zalgiris maintains the 2nd position in Lithuanian LKL. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. It's already very far into the season and Zalgiris keeps perfect 9 -0 record. It's Jankunas' second year at Zalgiris and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Paulius Jankunas averages this season 9.0ppg and 6.4rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Sylvester Morgan (208-C-83) of Pieno Zvaigzdes. Morgan had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Pieno Zvaigzdes lost that game 72-91 to the higher-ranked Rudupis (#3, 9-2). Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-6 record. Morgan is a newcomer at Pieno Zvaigzdes, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89, agency: Interperformances) of Techasas (#11). Cepukaitis scored 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Cepukaitis' great performance Techasas lost 79-82 to the higher-ranked Juventus (#8, 5-7). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Techasas can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-10 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Cepukaitis he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Cepukaitis has individually a great season in Lithuania. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.8rpg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) of Naglis Palangos - 12 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89) of Techasas - 19 points and 3 rebounds
6. Aurimas Adomaitis (206-PF-87) of Kedainiai - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
7. David McClure (198-F-86) of Kedainiai - 19 points and 6 rebounds
8. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83) of Siauliai - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) of Kedainiai - 15 points and 9 rebounds
10. Vaidotas Volkus (203-F-85) of Juventus - 21 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is chosen 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)

BBL: Siauliai hands Juventus their sixth loss - by Adomas Kraunevicius

BC Siauliai - Juventus-LKSK Utenos 84:72

BC Siauliai (10/1) reached their 10th victory in the Baltic Basketball League Elite Division defeating Juventus-LKSK Utenos (5/6) 84:72 (23:24, 26:22, 19:12, 16:14) in Siauliai.

The first half of the match was very high scoring yet neither team managed to build a bigger lead. Juventus-LKSK Utenos led 24:23 after the first ten minutes. In the middle of the second quarter, Darius Pakamanis (192-G-81) hit a two pointer and gave Juventus a 6 point lead (39:33) but BC Siauliai managed to tie the score at 44:44 and after Cam Long's (193-G-88, college: George Mason) three pointer take a 3 point advantage just before the halftime (49:46).

Juventus-LKSK Utenos struck back in the third quarter and after a 6:0 run regained the lead (52:49) but BC Siauliai responded with a staggering 15:0 spurt. Mindaugas Zukauskas (201-F-75, agency: World Sport Agency) gave BC Siauliai a double digit lead (64:52) which they maintained till the end of the third quarter (68:58).

With the efforts of Vaidotas Volkus (203-F-85, college: Redlands CC) and Tomas Gaidamavicius (192-G-82), Juventus-LKSK Utenos managed to cut Siauliai lead to 3 (65:68) but by the mid quarter BC Siauliai regained their advantage (74:65). By the end of the period they increased their lead to double digits again and secured a comfortable victory 84:72.

Juventus-LKSK Utenos: Tomas Gaidamavicius 15, Vaidotas Volkus 13, Darius Pakamanis 11, Gediminas Maceina (188-PG-84) 10 (5/7 2pt), Gintautas Matulis (195-F/G-86) 8, Tautvydas Slezas (207-C-90, agency: Interperformances) 6 (4 ast.), Arunas Vasiliauskas (201-F-85) 5 (7 rebs.), Zygimantas Sestokas (196-G/F-86, agency: Players Group, college: Hofstra) 3, Roman Gumeniuk (220-C-87) 1.

BC Siauliai: Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) 18 (8 rebs.), Darius Gvezdauskas (191-PG-88) 13, Cam Long 12, Denzel Bowles (208-F/C-89, college: JMU) 11.

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LUXEMBOURG

Horace signs with BBC Etzella!! - by John Thomas
Daniel Horace (200-F-83, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Miami, OH) has signed as an E.U. Player for BBC Etzella of the Diekirch League in Luxembourg. He replaces French player Raphael Albaladejo. Daniel was born on April 22, 1983 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is the son of Daniel (Sr.) and Carrie Horace. At 6'6'' and 228 lbs., he plays the power forward position. Horace has a Liberian passport .

Previous teams:
Kapfenberg (Austria)
Indiana St. (USA-ABA)
St Quentin (France)
Le Portel (France)
TBB Trier (Germany)
Career:
Cincinnati, OH / Western Hills HS
2001-2002: Miami, OH (NCAA, starting five): 31 games: 6.5ppg, 5.8rpg, BlocksMAC-6 (1.1bpg), FGP: 42.8%, FT: 77.9%
2002-2003: Miami, OH (NCAA, starting five): 26 games: 11.5ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 75.8%
2003-2004: Miami, OH (NCAA, starting five): 27 games: 9.9ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 74.8%
2004-2005: Miami, OH (NCAA, starting five): 30 games: 15.4ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 81.9%
2005: May: Jersey Shore Invitational Tournament in River Toms, NJ
2005-2006: In Jan.'06 signed at Honka Espoo Playboys (Finland-Korisliiga): 21 games: 13.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%, FT: 67.4%
2006-2007: TBB Trier (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 7.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 34.8%, FT: 59.1%
2007-2008: ESSM Le Portel Cte d'Opale (France-ProB): only pre-season
2008 June: ACMT EuroExposure camp in Ohio
2008-2009: Saint-Quentin Basket-Ball (France-ProB): 20 games: 9.1ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 45.8%, FT: 79.0%
2009 July: Korean KBL Pre-Draft Camp in Las Vegas, NV
2009-2010: Indiana Steamrolers (ABA-exhibition)
2010-2011: ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 35 games: 14.6ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.4%
2011: drafted by Cincinnati Slam (UBA,1rd (22))
2011-2012: In Jan.'12 signed at Etzella Ettelbruck (Luxembourg-Diekirch League)
Awards/Achievements:
MAC All-Freshman Team -02
MAC Regular Season East Division Runner-Up -03, 04
MAC Tournament Semifinals -04, 05
NABC All-NCAA District 10 2nd Team -05
MAC Regular Season (East Division) Champion -05
All-MAC 1st Team -05
Black College All-Star Game -05 (Ohio All-Stars team)
Finnish League Regular Season Runner-Up -06 Finnish League Semifinals -06

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MEXICO

LNBP 1/8 Finals, fourth games: Soles eliminate Panteras - by Eurobasket News
Fourth games of the LNBP 1/8 Finals were played on Saturday. Soles cruised past Panteras on the road 64-80 winning the series with almost perfect 3-1. It means that Soles advanced to the Quarterfinals, where they will meet Pioneros. Correcaminos and Barreteros also celebrated on Saturday and forced decisive Game Five against their rivals.

Corr.Victoria - Huracanes 80-74 (2-2)
The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 25-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Correcaminos shot 25 for 38 from the free-throw line, while Huracanes only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by Huracanes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 5 assists. Trinidad and Tobago forward DeVaughn Lamont (208-84, college: CS Monterey) contributed with 17 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Robert Hornsby (196-82, college: Troy) replied with 18 points and his fellow American import center Elbert Fuqua (211-83, college: UTSA) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Huracanes. Huracanes' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Huracanes: R.Hornsby 18+4reb+3ast, E.Fuqua 13+9reb+3ast, J.Edwin 13+1reb+2ast, E.Medina 6+2reb, L.Davis 6+3reb, O.Quintero 6+2ast
Corr.Victoria: F.Harris 20+3reb+1ast, M.Allen 17+4reb+5ast, D.Lamont 17+9reb, S.Monreal 9+2reb+2ast, R.Brown 7+5reb+2ast, J.Green 6+5reb

Abejas - Barreteros 78-95 (2-2)
The game was mostly controlled by Barreteros. Abejas was better in second period 27-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Barreteros shot 60.3 percent from the field. Barreteros outrebounded Abejas 35-23 including a 27-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 66.7 percentage. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a quality performance of guard Glenn Stokes (170-76, college: American, agency: R.H.Consultancy) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 5 assists and forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) who added 18 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) during the contest. At the losing side forward Lorrenzo Wade (198-85, college: San Diego St.) responded with 17 points and forward Marcus Jackson (202-82, college: Marquette, agency: Court Side) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Abejas: L.Wade 17+1reb+2ast, M.McHugh 13+3reb+1ast, J.Verdejo 11+1reb+2ast, K.Gray 9+1reb+3ast, C.Castillo 8+4reb+1ast, M.Jackson 8+8reb+3ast
Barreteros: G.Stokes 28+3reb+5ast, F.Fisher 20+3reb+1ast, J.Habel 18+8reb+2ast, R.Navarro 9+3reb+2ast, J.Reaves 8+4reb+2ast, A.Aguirre 7+9reb+4ast

Panteras - Soles 64-80 (1-3)
Panteras were ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 44-27 second half run of Soles. Worth to mention a great performance of Canadian power forward Ryan Wright (206-C/F-87, college: Oklahoma) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and Venezuelan point guard David Cubillan (183-87, college: Marquette) who added 19 points during the contest. At the losing side American guard Marlyn Bryant (193-82, college: S.Florida) responded with 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and his fellow American import swingman Samuel Bowie (198-75, college: SE Louisiana) scored 18 points.
Top scorers:
Panteras: M.Bryant 18+7reb+4ast, S.Bowie 18+3reb+3ast, R.Benitez 9+7reb, G.Giron 8+2reb+2ast, J.Casillas 8+3reb+1ast, J.Alvarez 3+2reb+2ast
Soles: R.Wright 19+8reb, D.Cubillan 19+3reb+3ast, C.Edwards 11+4reb+3ast, R.Lopez 9+2reb+1ast, P.Meza Rogel 7+3reb+2ast, D.Fells 6+7reb+2ast

LNBP All-Star Game: Mexicans beat Foreigners by six, 142-136 - by Eurobasket News
Mexicans - Foreigners 142-136

LNBP All-Star Game was played last night. Mexicans were better than Foreigners in a high-scoring meeting 142-136. The fans had opportunity to enjoy and to watch the best LNBP players at the one place. Jesus Lopez (205-F-83, college: SW Baptist) stepped up for Mexicans with double-double of 26 points and 11 rebounds. Paul Stoll (178-G-85) also was great adding 23 points and 11 assists, while Michael Mitchell added 20 pts and 7 rebounds. In defeat, LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) was amazing with 34 points and 6 rebs. Luis Bethelmy (200-F/C-86) had 24 pts and 6 rebs, and Rene Rougeau (198-G/F-86, college: UNLV) added 19 pts, 5 rebs and 6 as. Mexicans exploded after the breather to create a bigger lead. Foreigners threatened in the finish, but Jesus Lopez and his teammates managed to keep their advantage until the end. Quarters: 37-38, 37-36, 44-27, 24-35.

Mexicans: Jesus Lopez 26+11 boards, Paul Stoll 23+11 as, Michael Mitchell 20+7 boards
Foreigners: LeRoy Hickerson 34+6 boards, Luis Bethelmy 24+6 boards, Rene Rougeau 19+5 boards+6 as

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MONTENEGRO

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Arso LEKOVIC
  Jedinstvo
  (198-F-90)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Lekovic, Jedinstvo	22.4
2. Mugosa, KK Podgo.	22.3
3. Vucurovic, Mogren	19.7
4. Sutulovic, KK Podg.	18.3
5. Ljujic, Jedinstvo	17.9
6. Petkovic, Danilovg.	17.6
7. Ratkovic, Danilovg.	17.0
8. Lopicic, Lovcen	16.9
9. Seferovic, Mogren	15.9
10. Zejak, Lovcen	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Nemanja KNEZEVIC
  Jedinstvo
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Knezevic, Jedinst.	9.7
2. Nicaj, KK Podgorica	7.9
3. Lopicic, Lovcen	7.8
4. Popovic, Sutjeska	7.3
5. Pejovic, Sutjeska	7.0
6. Devrnja, ABS P.	6.6
7. Petkovic, Danilovg.	6.5
8. Zejak, Lovcen	6.3
9. Medenica, Ulcinj	6.3
10. Mugosa, KK Podgo.	5.9

Assists Per Game

Aleksandar BOGOJEVIC
  KK Podgo.
  (189-G-86)
  Avg: 4.2

1. Bogojevic, KK Podg.	4.2
2. Jelenic, Mornar B.	3.8
3. Scott, Mornar Bar	3.6
4. Milatovic, Mogren	3.0
5. Bulatovic, ABS P.	2.9
6. Ratkovic, Danilovg.	2.8
7. Mijovic, Teodo Tiv.	2.5
8. Calic, Teodo Tivat	2.4
9. Seferovic, Mogren	2.3
10. Dragicevic, Sutje.	2.3

Steals Per Game

Akeem SCOTT
  Mornar Bar
  (186-PG-83)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Scott, Mornar Bar	2.7
2. Jovovic, Danilovgr.	2.3
3. Sutulovic, KK Podg.	2.3
4. Pavlicevic, Lovcen	2.0
5. Mijovic, Teodo Tiv.	1.9
6. Jelenic, Mornar B.	1.8
7. Bulatovic, ABS P.	1.7
8. Vrbica, Lovcen	1.6
9. Vucurovic, Mogren	1.6
10. Ivanovic, Mornar	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Ljeko NICAJ
  KK Podgorica
  (210-C-87)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Nicaj, KK Podgorica	1.7
2. Vujosevic, Mornar	1.1
3. Knezevic, Jedinst.	1.0
4. Pejovic, Sutjeska	1.0
5. Mrdak, Danilovgrad	0.9
6. Marojevic, Ulcinj	0.8
7. Milosev, Sutjeska	0.8
8. Cebalovic, Danilov.	0.8
9. Popovic, Sutjeska	0.8
10. Jocovic, Sutjeska	0.8

Standings - 1A

1A Standings

1. Mornar Bar		9-1
2. Mogren		8-4
3. Sutjeska		8-4
4. Teodo Tivat		7-5
5. KK Podgorica		6-6
6. Lovcen		6-6
7. Ulcinj		5-5
8. Jedinstvo		4-8
9. Danilovgrad		3-9
10. ABS Primorje		2-10
Play in international cups:
1. Buducnost		-

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

NBA

'Personal issues' keep Bogut at home - by Eurobasket News
Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) will return to the team as soon as he sorts out some family issues, his Australian-based manager said. Bruce Kaider told the Associated Press Bogut is completely fit, but the Aussie is in his hometown of Melbourne and dealing with those things we all have to go through in life, certain personal issues that he is experiencing at the moment. Kaider did not elaborate. Bogut, who has 63,500 Twitter followers and has posted nearly 14,500 tweets, has been silent on the social networking site since Jan. 3. The No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft in 2005, Bogut is averaging 14.3 points and 10 rebounds for Milwaukee after elbow surgery late last season. He has missed the last four games.

Courtesy of www.bostonglobe.com

Sunday's games review - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix Suns - Milwaukee B. 109-93
The Suns have dominated the Milwaukee Bucks in Phoenix for almost a quarter of a century. Sunday night was more of the same. Short-handed and weary at the end of an 0-5 road trip, the Bucks were ripe for a rout, and that's exactly what happened. Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) had 17 assists and 10 points in 27 minutes and the Suns rolled to a 109-93 victory over a Milwaukee team missing four players. The Suns beat the Bucks in Phoenix for the 24th consecutive time, the NBA's second-longest active streak behind San Antonio's 27 wins in a row at home over Golden State. 'One thing you can account for is that they have had good teams here. I was a part of a few of them,' Milwaukee coach Scott Skiles said. 'That is the first thing, and to a period of that time the Bucks weren't very good at the same time. That long of a streak, though, you would think that at some point that things would come back in your favor and win one. It just hasn't happened.' Nash had the Phoenix offense clicking from the start. And with the Suns shooting 62 percent through three quarters (58 percent overall), the assists mounted for the 37-year-old two-time MVP point guard. 'Steve is doing Steve, man,' teammate Channing Frye said. 'Everybody said, 'Aw, he looks old and he needs to this or that.' You can't say nothing about him. He gets the job done. It's up to us to take a lot of pressure off him and continue to challenge ourselves to let him be the best he can be by making shots.' Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) scored 18 points on 9-of-10 shooting to lead the Suns. Frye came out of a shooting slump to go 6 of 7, making all four 3-point tries, and finished with 16 points. Seven players, including all five starters, reached double figures for the Suns. 'Obviously, this is the worst defense we've played all year,' Skiles said. Nash said the Suns are beginning to find their rhythm. 'We are making open shots. We are also getting a little better pace and tempo throughout the game, a little bit of cohesion,' he said. 'It is taking us some time and I think you could have predicted that, but I think we are getting better.' Tobias Harris scored 15 for the Bucks, who last won in Phoenix on Feb. 21, 1987. Grant Hill (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) and Shannon Brown added 14 points apiece, Markieff Morris 13 and Jared Dudley 11 for Phoenix, which has won two in a row for the first time this season. The Suns made 9 of 20 3-pointers, 3 of 3 by the rookie Morris, who had a team-high 10 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

LA Lakers - Memphis G. 90-82
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) scored 26 points, Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) had 15 points and 15 rebounds, and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Memphis Grizzlies 90-82 Sunday night for their sixth consecutive home victory. Matt Barnes scored 15 points and Pau Gasol had 13 points and 15 rebounds for the Lakers, who have won six of eight after an 0-2 start despite playing the NBA's busiest early-season schedule, matching Oklahoma City with 10 games in the first 15 days. Although they haven't lost at Staples Center since their season opener on Christmas, the Lakers committed a season-high 27 turnovers and never pulled away from the injury-depleted Grizzlies. Memphis had beaten Los Angeles in two of the last three meetings, including a 19-point blowout in the Grizzlies' last trip to Staples. Rudy Gay scored 19 points to lead five players in double figures for Memphis, which wrapped up a three-game road trip with an unimpressive fourth quarter. The Grizzlies have lost two straight after winning their first two games following Zach Randolph's serious knee injury. Marreese Speights scored 17 points, O.J. Mayo had 15 and Quincy Pondexter added 14 for the Grizzlies. Barnes, who joined the Lakers' starting lineup last week, energized the club for the second straight game with strong defense in the fourth quarter, including a dramatic block of Speights' layup attempt with 3:34 to play. Bryant had just four points in the fourth quarter, failing to score 30 points for the first time in four games. Los Angeles managed just 12 points on 5-for-18 shooting, but the Grizzlies had only 14 points of their own, never getting closer than four points. At least the Lakers' awful 3-point shooting improved, with Steve Blake hitting three of the Lakers' six 3s. Pau Gasol rarely guarded his younger brother, Marc, who managed just two points on 0-for-9 shooting. The Spanish brothers, traded for each other in early 2008, went to dinner on Saturday night in their usual tradition. The Lakers responded well to a rare off day, jumping to a nine-point lead in the first quarter with strong play in the half court on both ends. Los Angeles stretched its lead to 14 points in the second quarter, repeatedly scoring inside against the Grizzlies' patchwork frontcourt with playmaking by Bryant and Pau Gasol. The Grizzlies were among the few NBA teams who could match the Lakers' twin 7-foot stars in the low post, but long-term injuries to Randolph and Darrell Arthur have compromised their depth. Memphis had its usual success against the Lakers in transition, but couldn't score consistently in half-court sets. Memphis scored the first six points of the fourth quarter to trim the Lakers' lead to 78-74. Los Angeles missed its first seven shots of the final period, but the Grizzlies never got closer. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Oklah.City T. - San Antonio S. 108-96
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) had 21 points and 10 rebounds, reserve James Harden scored 20 and the Oklahoma City Thunder became the first NBA team to win three games on consecutive nights this season by beating the San Antonio Spurs 108-96 Sunday. Durant needed only three more assists to record his first career triple-double but instead sat out the entire fourth quarter with the rest of Oklahoma City's starters. The Thunder were able to coast to the finish for the second time in their back-to-back-to-back set after outscoring the Spurs 37-21 in the third. Gary Neal (6'4''-G-84, college: Towson) scored 18 to lead the Spurs, who played without point guard Tony Parker after he came out of the game and walked to locker room midway through the third quarter. He returned to the bench a few minutes later, and a team spokesman said Parker was fine and could have played. Parker left near the beginning of a 25-8 run that put the game away for Oklahoma City. Russell Westbrook hit a driving layup and then set up Serge Ibaka for a three-point play to start it, and rookie Reggie Jackson's 3-pointer with 7 seconds left in the third quarter stretched the lead to 91-67. Durant kept busy by getting up to give pointers to his teammates, and Spurs star Tim Duncan didn't play in the last period either as the deficit remained in double digits. Nick Collison added 12 points and 10 rebounds and Jackson - taking over Eric Maynor's role as the backup point guard - had 11 points and four assists. Maynor sustained a season-ending knee injury in the Thunder's 98-95 win at Houston on Saturday night that allowed them to become the first to win the first two games of a back-to-back-to-back. Atlanta, Denver, Houston, Sacramento and the Los Angeles Lakers had all failed to win three straight games on consecutive nights this season. Oklahoma City finished it off and even had time to rest the starters, running away after Richard Jefferson's 3-pointer to start the second half got San Antonio within 54-51. Westbrook answered with a 3 and his fast-break layup restored the lead to double digits at 65-54 after an 11-3 burst. Parker came out a few minutes later and the Spurs, already without Manu Ginobili because of a broken left hand, never mounted a comeback. Jefferson and Kawhi Leonard each added 13 points, and Leonard also had 10 rebounds for San Antonio. Jackson hit a floater in the lane to start a run of nine straight points by the Thunder reserves as they started to build a lead at the beginning of the second quarter. Harden followed with a two-handed jam on the fast break and a 3-pointer, and Collison's reverse layup gave Oklahoma City a 33-22 edge with 9:19 left before halftime. The Thunder led by as much as 12 three separate times - all after baskets by Collison - before the Spurs started to chip away. *Courtesy of www.tribune-chronicle.com

Portland TB - Cleveland C. 98-78
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas) had 28 points and eight rebounds and the Portland Trail Blazers got off to a slow start but pulled away to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 98-78 on Sunday night. Wesley Matthews (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette) added 24 points for the Blazers, who led by as many as 24. Kyrie Irving, the top pick in last June's NBA draft, had 21 points - 11 in the third quarter. Antawn Jamison, who was Cleveland's top scorer going into the game, made a 3-pointer for his only basket of the game, but had 11 rebounds. The Cavaliers were only allowing an average of six fast-break points per game, but Portland had 22 even though the overall pace of the game seemed sluggish. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Sacramento K. - Orlando M. 97-104
Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) scored a season-high 22 points, Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU) added a season-best 20 and the Orlando Magic beat the Sacramento Kings 104-97 on Sunday despite playing much of the game without foul-plagued Dwight Howard. The All-Star center had five points and four rebounds in 20 minutes and spent most of the first three quarters in foul trouble. He didn't get his first rebound until 4 minutes into the fourth and was scoreless before converting a three-point play with 6:35 remaining, putting the Magic ahead 87-85. Tyreke Evans had a season-high 28 points and eight assists for the Kings. DeMarcus Cousins, also hampered by fouls, had 16 points and 10 rebounds. J.J. Hickson added 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Marcus Thornton scored 13 points. Ryan Anderson had 19 points and 11 rebounds for Orlando. Von Wafer made three 3-pointers and scored 12 points, and Hedo Turkoglu added 11 points. With the Magic clinging to a one-point edge, Turkoglu banked in a 3 with the shot clock running down to give Orlando a 93-89 lead with just less than 3 minutes remaining. Anderson's 3-pointer from the corner and Turkoglu's layup gave the Magic a 102-95 cushion with 35 seconds left. Guarding Cousins, Howard picked up his second foul at the 10:14 mark of the first quarter and promptly left the game. He was called for a third foul midway through the second quarter and had zero points and rebounds in 6 first-half minutes. Howard was whistled for his fourth foul at 9:57 of the third quarter. On his way to the bench, a comment earned him a technical foul. Cousins also was in foul trouble. He picked up two fouls in just more than a minute in the third quarter and went to the bench at the 6:54 mark with five fouls. The game was the start of a four-game road trip for the Magic, which ends with a Jan. 16 game against the Knicks. The Kings' next game is Tuesday in Philadelphia, which is the start of a five-game road trip in seven days. After struggling for much of the game, Anderson got going in the third quarter, scoring 11 points. Davis replaced Howard and was trouble for the Kings again, scoring nine points as Orlando took an 81-79 lead into the fourth. Despite playing almost the entire first half without Howard, the Magic led 49-47. Davis and Richardson both scored 11 points, while Evans had 15 for the Kings and Cousins added 12. The Orlando bench had 28 first-half points. A slow starter much of the season, Cousins scored 10 points in helping the Kings to a 21-19 lead in the opening quarter. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Washington W. - Minnesota T. 72-93
Kevin Love (6'10''-C-88, college: UCLA) had 20 points and 16 rebounds, Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90) had 13 points and a career-high 14 assists, and the Minnesota Timberwolves broke a two-game losing streak Sunday with a 93-72 victory over the winless Washington Wizards. Spanish rookie Rubio also grabbed six rebounds and controlled the game during much of his 30 minutes off the bench. He entered with 1:30 remaining in the first quarter and quickly hit a 22-foot jump shot to start a 17-2 run that gave Minnesota the lead for good. Six players scored in double figures for the Timberwolves, who shot 45 percent to open their first set of three games in three days during the lockout-shortened season. They are playing all three without forward Michael Beasley, who sprained his right foot during Friday night's loss to Cleveland. Nick Young and Trevor Booker scored 14 points apiece to lead the Wizards, who dropped to 0-8 to extend their franchise-worst start to a season. Washington has already lost four games by 18 or more points, and the team was showered with boos from the home fans when the deficit reached 19 points in the fourth quarter. John Wall again struggled with his shot, going 3 for 10 from the field to finish with 10 points. Andray Blatche was 5 for 16, and Jordan Crawford went 3 for 11 to contribute to Washington's 34 percent shooting - as well as the team's lowest point total of the year. The Wizards made just 5 of 23 field goals in the fourth quarter. The Wizards made a few runs after falling behind by double digits in the second quarter, but they never got closer than seven points in the second half. Rookie Derrick Williams hit back-to-back 3-pointers to quash one comeback attempt, pushing the lead to 15 points late in the third quarter. The only Wizards spark came from Booker, who came off the bench to shoot 7 for 9 from the field. Washington first-round pick Jan Vesely, making his debut after missing the first seven games with a hip injury, shot an air ball on his first NBA free throw attempt and finished with two points in nine minutes. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Sixers 96 - Pacers 86 - by Daniel Gibson
PHILADELPHIA---The Indiana Pacers have seven players with double digit scoring averages but two of them were out tonight against the Philadelphia 76ERS.

The Sixers capitalized on the Pacers lack of fire power by jumping ahead early and never looking back to the win the game, 96-86.

Andre Iguodala led all scorers with 20 points on 7-of-16 shooting with nine rebounds but he received plenty of help from his teammates as six Sixers reached double digits.

The Pacers were without their leading scorer Danny Granger and their most productive player off of the bench George Hill. Hill was injured against the Bobcats when he and Gerald Henderson got tied up and Hill fell and landed on his tailbone.

Granger was suffering from food poisoning and unable to go. Roy Hibbert led the way for the Pacers with 19 points and eight rebounds and David West had a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds.

The Pacers were close in the first quarter as both teams went back and forth taking turns in the lead and tying the game up but after that the Sixers ran away with it. The Sixers led by as many as 15 before the Pacers put together a run but they couldnt get over the hump.

Lance Stephenson returned from his ankle injury for the Pacers but he struggled to get going scoring two points in 14 minutes shooting 1-of-5. Dahntay Jones replaced Granger in the starting lineup and played well. He finished with 12 points on 5-of-10 shooting in nearly 35 minutes of action.

Next up for the Pacers is the Atlanta Hawks this Wednesday back in Indiana. The Hawks have been playing well and the Pacers will look to be back at full strength to get back on track.

Michael Beasley out at least 3 games - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Michael Beasley (6'10''-F-89, college: Kansas St.) will miss at least the next three games with a sprained right foot.

Beasley had an MRI on Saturday, which revealed no broken bones. He was injured with less than two minutes to play in Friday night's loss to Cleveland.

The Timberwolves are preparing for their first back-to-back-to-back of the season. They start in Washington on Sunday, go to Toronto on Monday and finish it up with a home game against Chicago on Tuesday night.

Guard J.J. Barea, who has missed four of the last five games with a strained left hamstring, will make the trip to Washington. But his status for the upcoming games has yet to be determined. Barea will be a game-time decision on Sunday against the Wizards.

Courtesy of www.wday.com

Celtics pulled Jeff Green's qualifying offer - by Eurobasket News
Basketball is likely the furthest thing from Jeff Green's (6'9''-F-86, college: Georgetown) mind right now -- as it should be. But when he's ready to return to the NBA, he'll reportedly be an unrestricted free agent.

According to ESPN.com, in a move that was not made public, the Celtics withdrew Green's qualifying offer in mid-December -- right around the time he failed a physical and had his one-year, $9 million contract voided. As a result, Green will be an unrestricted free agent, whereas he would have been a restricted free agent upon returning had the C's not pulled the offer.

If the Celtics didn't withdraw the offer, they would have had the ability to match any offers Green might receive from other teams. Boston reportedly was under no obligation to handle the matter the way it did.

General manager Danny Ainge said he preferred not to discuss the basketball matter, but he did acknowledge that the team pulled the contract, and it reportedly may have just been a goodwill gesture by the Celtics to Green and his agent, David Falk. It will give Green more freedom to explore other opportunities upon his return.

'It was not something we expected or bargained for, but coming as it did after such devastating medical news it was almost like an early Christmas present,' Falk said, according to ESPN.com.

Green is scheduled to have heart surgery on Monday to treat an aortic aneurysm.

Courtesy of www.nesn.com

Steve Nash: I won't request trade from Suns - by Eurobasket News
ESPN.com reports that the 37-year-old Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara), who has had his name in trade rumors for years, refuses to request a trade from the Suns.

'One, it's not my style. Maybe I'm old school, but I feel like that's not my place to give up on my team, give up on my teammates. I signed a contract and made a commitment.
'And two, I don't feel it's like choosing a restaurant. It's got to be a situation that works for two teams. And I don't know how simple that is. But before we even get to that part of it, I just feel that I owe it to my teammates to stay committed to them. I feel that I owe it to the fans and the organization to fight.'

Nash is adamant: He will not go to his bosses and ask to be traded. The Suns likewise haven't budged: They insist they will not trade Nash unless he comes to them and says he can't bear another day detached from relevance.

The Suns are just 2-4 on the young season and are almost certainly headed for the NBA Draft Lottery. Nash's numbers through six games -- 11.5 points, 8.7 assists -- are way down, although he's been dealing with a bruised rib. It's been more than a decade since his numbers have been at those levels and he's currently shooting a career-low 42.2 percent from the field.

Certainly, there's the school of thought that says it's in the best interests of basketball for Nash to hook on to a contending team, a veteran, savvy, playoff-tested point guard who can potentially push a team over the top before he hits free agency next summer.

On the flipside, there's a noble beauty that comes with playing the tragic hero, and the desire to want out of a situation can only come within. One of the league's most respected and trusted floor generals, Nash is calling these shots too.

It's also possible that Nash has now passed the 'checkout' point of his Suns tenure. At some point over the last few years, as owner Robert Sarver turned over the roster time and again and allowed All-Star forward Amar'e Stoudemire to leave for New York, there must have been a moment when Nash seriously contemplated leaving the desert. That flight reflex would be natural and human. At his age and with the end of his contract approaching, though, it doesn't take a psychologist (amateur or otherwise) to realize that the pressure to stick it out and leave Phoenix and its fanbase with his head held high, knowing he gave them every possible chance to turn his talent into wins, has increased dramatically.

The only problem with that: his clock is still ticking and he's passed the 1,000 games mark. If there's going to be a meaningful post-Suns chapter in Nash's NBA career, it needs to begin sooner rather than later. Here's hoping that team and player -- who are both reportedly too steadfast and respectful to make the first move -- realize what's at stake over the next two months and get a deal done prior to the deadline.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Delonte West: 'I'm banned from going to White House' - by Eurobasket News
Delonte West (6'4''-G-83, college: St.Joseph's) won't join his Dallas Mavericks teammates when they visit the White House on Monday.

Im banned from going to the White House, so Im not going to make it, West said, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. But Im going home to D.C., Im just not allowed to go to the White House.

'Thats what happens when you make bad decisions in your life. You cant go to the White House.'

West plead guilty to weapons and traffic charges stemming from an incident in September 2009, when he was found driving with three gunsalthough earlier this year, he offered a fascinating explanation about that arrest.

West is from D.C., and says he lives right around the corner from President Obama.

This is not the first headline generated by the Mavericks' White House visit. Team owner Mark Cuban was irked that the NBA did not schedule a Mavericks game against the Wizards in Washington this season, which would have made it easier for the defending champions to make the traditional stop at the White House. Cuban said the team scheduled a trip to the White House on its own.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Thunder's Eric Maynor to miss rest of season - by Eurobasket News
The Oklahoma City Thunder said injured guard Eric Eric Maynor (6'2''-PG-87, college: VCU) will miss the rest of the season.

Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti issued a statement Sunday that said Eric Maynor tore his right anterior cruciate ligament during the fourth quarter of Saturday night's game in Houston.

Presti said the surgery and recovery required to heal the injury will cause Eric Maynor to miss the rest of the 2011-12 season.

Presti said, 'It is unfortunate to lose a player like Eric, whose work ethic and leadership has contributed to the culture of our organization. Knowing him and the mental toughness he possesses, we are confident that he will do everything necessary to come back from this injury and be prepared for the 2012-13 season. Injuries are part of the NBA, and although it is tough to lose Eric, we must move forward and focus on our continued improvement as a basketball team.'

The Thunder defeated the Rockets 98-95 on Saturday. They are set to take on the San Antonia Spurs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on Sunday.

Courtesy of www.koco.com

Clippers' Paul, Billups, Griffin could be Olympic candidates - by Eurobasket News
Is it possible that the Los Angeles Clippers could have three players on the U.S. Olympic basketball team?

Well, yes, it's possible that Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest), Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) and Chauncey Billups (6'3''-PG-76, college: Colorado) all could represent the United States in the Olympics in London this summer.

Paul said he has been in contact with Jerry Colangelo, director of USA Basketball, and that he hopes to be on the Olympic basketball team for the second time.

Griffin said he was told by his agent that Colangelo wanted to speak with him about being a candidate to try out for the team. Griffin said he planned to call Colangelo this week to express his interest.

Billups said his agent talked with Colangelo.

Colangelo must announce the 18 candidates for the team by Jan. 18.

Paul was on the gold medal-winning U.S. team in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

'He just asked me if I was committed,' Paul said about his conversation with Colangelo. 'My answer was, 'Yeah!' '

When asked if he was trying to get a second gold medal, Paul said, 'exactly.'

'If I'm healthy and well, then I want to play,' Paul said. 'I'd like to do that one more time. I'll be 30 in 2016. I'll be old.'

Griffin would be the only player trying out who was not on the 2008 Olympic team or the 2010 world championships team.

'It would be an honor for me to represent my country,' Griffin said. 'I'll call and see what the next step is. I'm excited about the opportunity.'

Billups, 35, was on the world championships team that won the gold medal. He was supposed to be on the 2008 Olympic team but had to pull out for personal reasons.

'Oh, yeah, I want to play, absolutely,' Billups said. 'I've never played in the Olympics. That's been a dream of mine. I would have been on the other team, the team in 2008, but I had to pull out at the last second because I had a little family situation. I never thought I'd get another opportunity. The world championships was great. We'll see.'

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

Agent for Nicolas Batum set to meet with Trail Blazers next week to talk contract extension - by Eurobasket News
The agent for Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88) said on Thursday that he plans to meet with the team next week to discuss a contract extension for his client.

Agent Bouna Ndiaye attended the Blazers 107-96 win over the Lakers on Thursday, but said he didnt negotiate with the team. He said the plan is to meet next week, although no formal date or meeting has been arranged.

The team has until Jan. 25 to sign Batum to an extension. Otherwise, he becomes a restricted free agent at the end of the season. Both the team, and Batum has expressed a desire to sign an extension.

I like them; they like me, Batum said Thursday night. Its up to my agent to so something.

Batum said he would like for the process to be decided sooner than later but added that it is not weighing on his mind.

Ndiaye said he has had one meeting with the Blazers, but no numbers were discussed.

It was an exchanging of ideas, Ndiaye said.

Ndiaye will head back to Dallas on Friday, but said he plans to return early next week. Whether or not he would be able to negotiate a contract in that Portland visit remains to be seen.

If something gets done, good. If not, we will wait, Ndiaye said. Its up to (the Blazers). But its not like we are up against the wall. If we cant get something done, we will wait.

Batum, who had two points, two rebounds and one block in 19 minutes on Thursday, is averaging 10.0 points and 5.5 rebounds in 23 minutes this season.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

LeBron JAMES
  Miami Heat
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 30.1

1. James, Miami Heat	30.1
2. Bryant, LA Lakers	27.6
3. Anthony, New Y.	27.1
4. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	25.7
5. Love, Minnesota T.	25.4
6. Griffin, LA Clipp.	24.7
7. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
8. Bargnani, Toron.	22.8
9. Aldridge, Portland.	22.6
10. Allen, Boston C.	20.4

Rebounds Per Game

Andrew BYNUM
  LA Lakers
  (213-C-87)
  Avg: 15.7

1. Bynum, LA Lakers	15.7
2. Love, Minnesota T.	15.0
3. Howard, Orlando M.	14.6
4. Humphries, New J.	11.1
5. Hawes, Philadelph..	10.6
6. Gasol, Memphis G.	10.4
7. Haslem, Miami Heat	10.3
8. Griffin, LA Clipp.	10.3
9. Varejao, Clevelan.	10.1
10. Cousins, Sacramen.	10.1

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Rondo, Boston C.	10.5
2. Lowry, Houston R.	10.0
3. Nash, Phoenix Suns	9.8
4. Calderon, Toron.	9.4
5. Paul, LA Clippers	9.3
6. Rose, Chicago B.	8.4
7. Ellis, Golde S.	8.1
8. Jack, N.Orleans H.	7.7
9. James, Miami Heat	7.6
10. Rubio, Minnesot.	7.6

Steals Per Game

Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Conley, Memphis G.	3.0
2. Paul, LA Clippers	2.8
3. Teague, Atlanta H.	2.1
4. Granger, Indiana P.	2.0
5. Lowry, Houston R.	2.0
6. James, Miami Heat	2.0
7. Lawson, Denver N.	2.0
8. Jennings, Milwauke.	1.9
9. Chalmers, Miami He.	1.9
10. Gallinari, Denver	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Javale MCGEE
  Washingt.
  (213-C/F-88)
  Avg: 3

1. McGee, Washingt.	3.0
2. Jordan, LA Clippers	3.0
3. Gasol, Memphis G.	2.4
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.4
5. Stiemsma, Boston	2.2
6. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.2
7. Wade, Miami Heat	2.0
8. Smith, Atlanta H.	2.0
9. Hawes, Philadelph..	1.9
10. Okafor, N.Orlean.	1.9

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Philadelph.76		5-2
2. New York K.		4-4
3. Boston C.		4-4
4. Toronto R.		3-5
5. New Jersey N.		2-7
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		7-2
2. Indiana P.		6-2
3. Cleveland C.		4-4
4. Detroit P.		2-6
5. Milwaukee B.		2-6
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		8-1
2. Atlanta H.		6-3
3. Orlando M.		6-3
4. Charlotte B.		2-6
5. Washington W.		0-8
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		8-2
2. Portland TB		6-2
3. Denver N.		6-3
4. Utah Jazz		5-3
5. Minnesota T.		3-5
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		6-4
2. LA Clippers		4-2
3. Phoenix Suns		4-4
4. Sacramento K.		3-6
5. Golde State W.		2-6
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		6-3
2. Dallas M.		4-5
3. Memphis G.		3-5
4. Houston R.		2-6
5. N.Orleans H.		2-6

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

NBLCANADA

NBL Canada Standings

1. London L.		15-4
2. Quebec K.		15-8
3. Halifax R.		12-5
4. St.John M.R.		9-11
5. Summerside S.		8-11
6. Oshawa P.		7-16
7. Moncton M.		4-15

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

NCAA1

Stanford Tops Oregon State in 4OT Thriller - by Carl Berman
College basketball games that go to 4 overtimes are very rare. Usually there are 2-3 per year in NCAA Division 1. In 2009 the Syracuse-Connecticut Big East Tournament game was a classic that was decided after 6 overtime periods. This past Saturday night in Corvallis, Oregon State and Stanford battled over 4 overtime periods before Stanford escaped with a 103-101 victory.

The difference in the game was Oregon States inability to hold double-digit first and second half leads, their missing key foul shots and their inability to execute at the end of regulation and in the first three overtime periods. It seemed like the Beavers digressed to one-on-one play at the close of each stanza. Angus Brandt missed three key free throws towards the end of regulation, Ahmad Starks dribbled the ball off his foot near the end of the 1st overtime, Joe Burton missed a key free throw at the end of the 2nd overtime and poor shot selection at the close of the 3rd overtime led to Chasson Randle (6'1''-G-93)'s tying three -pointer. The Beavers also had numerous chances off the offensive boards near the close of the 3rd and 4th overtimes and could not convert, although it appeared that there may have been sufficient contact to warrant a foul, especially when Devon Collier had to leave the game after being hit in the face on an offensive rebound shot attempt. Oregon State had three attempts off the offensive glass after stealing the ball with 17 seconds left and down by one (102-101). Roberto Nelsons three-pointer at the buzzer hit the front rim and bounced away, finally ending the contest.

Stanford seemed to be able to run their offense better than Oregon State late on the game. 69 Dwight Powell came off the bench with some big hoops and boards (10 points, 11 rebounds). Freshman Chasson Randle (6'1''-G-93) was the star of the game scoring 24 points for the Cardinal, including the tying three-pointer in the 3rd overtime and was especially important after point guard Aaron Bright (18 points, 6 assists) fouled out. Roberto Nelson (19 points) led Oregon State with 19 points including back-to-back three-pointers with only one shoe on. It was a classic in Corvallis.

Carl Berman is a Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. Information about NetScouts Basketball can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

Western Kentucky fires basketball coach after Louisiana-Lafayette wins with six players on court - by Eurobasket News
Western Kentucky fired basketball coach Ken McDonald on Friday after a 5-11 start capped by a chaotic ending to a loss the night before.

Assistant Ray Harper was appointed interim head coach by athletic director Ross Bjork, who said the team needs a 'new voice' and someone who can help restore 'respect' to the program and stop the slide in attendance.

McDonald finishes with a 67-49 record following a 72-70 overtime defeat by Louisiana-Lafayette when the Ragin' Cajuns scored with six players on the court for the final possession. The Sun Belt Conference confirmed the error Friday, but said the score stands.

'During the play the officials, both teams and the scorer's table were unaware of the extra player,' associate commissioner John McElwain said in a statement. 'When the game was concluded the officials conversed and determined that the play was not correctable or reviewable.'

Bjork is looking for an 'infusion of energy' from Harper, who makes his debut Saturday when Western Kentucky hosts Troy.

'How many games are we going to win? We have no idea,' Bjork said. 'But I know looking at these guys in the eyes this morning and seeing their pain and anguish the last couple of weeks, I believe they're going to focus and we're going to see something.'

South Alabama visits Western Kentucky on Feb. 4 and entertains the Hilltoppers on Feb. 18 in Sun Belt Conference games.

Harper spent 12 seasons as head coach at Kentucky Wesleyan College and Oklahoma City University before moving to Western Kentucky as an assistant for the 2008-09 season. Bjork said he would handle the coaching search himself, and Harper is considered a 'strong candidate.'

'I'm not concerned about that,' Harper said. ' (There's) 57 days until the conference tournament, so we've got 57 days to get this thing right and really be playing our best basketball.'

Western Kentucky has reached the round of 16 seven times and played in the 1971 Final Four, though that appearance was vacated by the NCAA over rules violations. Bjork said the program's tradition -- the last 11 coaches have made at least one NCAA tournament appearance -- will help him in his search.

'We will attract great candidates,' Bjork said. 'There may be some coaches that say, 'I need to wait until my season is over' and we'll assess that with the rest of the pool and decide, do we wait or do we move forward with another candidate.'

The Hilltoppers have been in steady decline since McDonald took over following a run to the round of 16 in the 2008 NCAA tournament. Western Kentucky returned to the tournament in 2009, but missed the postseason each of the last two years. It is on its way to a losing season, which would be its first since finishing 11-18 in 1999-00.

The 50-year-old Harper is from Bremen, Ky., and was honored as Division II Coach of the Year at Kentucky Wesleyan three times in nine seasons. He also earned NAIA Coach of the Year honors at Oklahoma City after leading the Stars to a 2007-08 national championship. Harper joined Western Kentucky the following year as an assistant. He is 342-63 as a coach.

'The bottom line is this team, we're currently 5-11, and the one thing I think is they're hanging together, they believe in each other and we're going to go compete,' Harper said.

McDonald took a $100,000 pay cut in March to help get the Hilltoppers back on track following a 16-16 season as part of what Bjork dubbed a program 'reset.' But McDonald's latest team struggled even more -- losing all three games in a holiday tournament in Charleston, S.C., and a home game to state rival Murray State as attendance has dwindled.

The Hilltoppers drew 3,813 for their season opener against St. Joseph's and announced just 2,137 in the loss to the Ragin' Cajuns on Thursday night despite a $1 ticket promotion.

In that game, after a timeout in the closing seconds of overtime, video showed the Ragin' Cajuns broke their huddle with six players. Elfrid Payton hit a layup with three seconds remaining to win the game.

'I looked on the floor and I thought I had lost my mind,' Harper said. 'I see five guys and the official hands someone (else) the ball.'

Western Kentucky did not immediately protest. The game officials -- Roger Ayers, Reinaldo Acosta and Brad Gaston -- huddled after the game, but the play stood. Bjork said he spoke to Sun Belt coordinator of officials Mike Wood four or five times from Thursday night into Friday morning.

'I know the officials regret it,' Bjork said. 'They do because they try to be perfect. ... Those guys are human.'

McElwain said the conference would not comment further and any punishment would be handled internally by the league office. Harper said his players will prepare to play Troy and not dwell on the whirlwind of events.

'We'll move forward,' Harper said. 'If it ever comes up again we'll know how to guard six, though.'

Courtesy of www.al.com

No.3 UNC opens ACC play with 83-60 win over BC - by Eurobasket News
After his teams 83-60 victory against Boston College on Saturday, North Carolina coach Roy Williams spent more time in the Tar Heels locker room, talking to his team, than he had after any other game this season.

It might have been easy enough to discern his message after a victory that was, at times, sloppy. Still, Williams played coy when asked what he told the Tar Heels (14-2, 1-0) following their first ACC victory.

Its like Vegas, Williams said, pausing for effect. Things you say in the locker room need to stay in the locker room. But weve got to be better. And we talked about some of the mistakes.

The Eagles, who entered the Smith Center with an RPI well into the 200s and with losses against the likes of Holy Cross and Boston University, never seriously threatened No. 3 UNC. But Boston College successfully frustrated the Heels to the point that Williams spent a good portion of the second half stomping about in front his teams bench.

Williams became particularly animated during a six-minute stretch in the second half when the Eagles (5-10, 0-1) trimmed UNCs 21-point lead to nine with about nine minutes to play. At the next media timeout, the Tar Heels surrounded Williams while he emphatically made his points.

I jumped them pretty hard, Williams said.

Leading into the start of ACC play, Williams and his players often spoke of the importance of raising their level of intensity and execution. But UNC started sluggishly on Saturday, and led 15-14 midway through the first half before using a 10-0 run that helped build a 40-27 halftime lead.

The Tar Heels were sharp at times. Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F-92), for one, made 10 of his 15 shots and finished with a game-high 25 points. And, similar to that key run in the first half, UNC began the second with a 10-2 spurt.

But then it got sloppy. Amid the Heels shrinking lead, point guard Kendall Marshall at one point attempted a lob pass to Barnes. The pass deflected off Barnes hand, over the backboard and out of bounds. Williams immediately benched Marshall.

He got after me, Marshall said. He told me that maybe he recruited the wrong player to make that pass. And you know, when you attack me as a passer, I take that to heart. Because I feel thats what I do well.

So I just wanted to go out there and make it right.

Marshall returned about 30 seconds later and finished with 11 assists. UNC senior forward Tyler Zeller (7'0''-F-90), meanwhile, finished with 20 points and missed just four of his 12 field goal attempts.

The production from Barnes and Zeller and Marshall, outside of that one mistake pleased Williams. But there were enough negatives to make him yell plenty, too, and for him to spend extra time with his team after the game.

Youve got to accept that Coach is trying to make you a better player, Zeller said. When he is yelling at you, he cares. My dad used to always tell me that when they quit yelling at you, you need to worry about it.

The victory against the Eagles, who started five freshmen, was lopsided enough to be comfortable yet sloppy enough for the Tar Heels to be motivated to learn from their mistakes.

It also proved something else, too: Few things come easily in conference play even against the most overmatched of teams.

I think thats just a classic example of league play, Barnes said of the Eagles, who hung around until the final few minutes. I mean, you may look at their record and say, Oh, this team right here theyre not even as good as Elon. But really, theyre an ACC team with ACC [players].

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

West Virginia upsets No. 9 Georgetown, 74-62 - by Eurobasket News
Darryl Bryant (6'2''-G) scored 25 points and West Virginia ended No. 9 Georgetowns 11-game winning streak with a 74-62 victory on Saturday.

Kevin Jones (6'8''-F) added 22 points and 16 rebounds for his 11th double-double of the season for the Mountaineers (12-4, 3-1 Big East).

Georgetown came back from 17 points down to beat No. 20 Marquette on Wednesday night but couldnt overtime a double-digit deficit against the Mountaineers, who shot 50 percent (24 of 48) from the floor and beat the Hoyas for the fifth straight time.

Hollis Thompson (6'8''-F) led Georgetown (13-2, 3-1) with 20 points. Jason Clark (6'2''-G), who had 26 points in the Marquette win, was limited to 10 on Saturday.

The Mountaineers limited Georgetowns back-door cuts near the basket and forced the Hoyas into taking outside shots. West Virginia held a 37-31 rebounding edge and never trailed in the second half, using a flurry of free throws in the final 2 minutes to put the game out of reach.

Georgetown has been relying on freshmen for scoring help this season but the Hoyas didnt get their first points from off the bench against West Virginia until Jabril Trawick made two free throws with 8 minutes left.

Bryant is arguably playing the best basketball of his career, at least from a scoring viewpoint. The senior has reached 25 points in three of his last four games.

Jones and Bryant combined for 21 of West Virginias 29 first-half points, but some of the Mountaineers seven freshmen came alive down the stretch. Reserve freshman Gary Browne (6'1''-G-92) scored 10 of his 12 points after halftime.

Jones layup broke a 31-31 tie 3 minutes into the second half to give the Mountaineers the lead for good.

Bryant had 19 points after halftime, including two free throws to give West Virginia its largest lead at 62-49 with 4:36 remaining.

Georgetown turned up the defensive pressure and scored nine straight points, capped by Otto Porters layup following a turnover that trimmed the Hoyas deficit to 62-58 with 2:26 left.

Georgetown managed just one field goal the rest of the game. West Virginia, ranked second-worst in the league in free-throw shooting, hit 10 straight in the final two minutes to finish off the Hoyas.

Jones got blood on his jersey and switched from No. 5 to No. 42 midway through the first half, when he scored eight straight for the Mountaineers. West Virginia led 29-27 at halftime.

Courtesy of www.sltrib.com

Michael Jordan's oldest son leaves UCF - by Eurobasket News
Jeffrey Jordan (6'1''-G), the oldest son of Michael Jordan (6'7''-F-63, college: N.Carolina), is leaving the Central Florida basketball team for what he says are 'personal reasons.'

The school announced the decision Saturday night but did provide further details.

The senior guard didn't travel with the team for its 81-63 win at East Carolina Saturday night. Jordan's younger brother and Knights guard Marcus Jordan, a junior, remains with the team.

Jeffrey Jordan walked on at Illinois and played three seasons before transferring to UCF after the 2009-10 season. He was playing his first season with the Knights after sitting out a season because of NCAA transfer rules.

He appeared in 13 games this season, averaging 2.7 points and 1.8 assists.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Jones scores 20, No. 2 Kentucky basketball defeats South Carolina, 79 - 64 - by Eurobasket News
Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-85) morphed from a mystery man into the man who (almost) couldn't miss.

Perfection eluded the sometimes-befuddling University of Kentucky forward when he hoisted up a 3-point shot that hit iron in the final minute of a 79-64 rout of South Carolina. Oh well. Jones settled for 8-of-9 shooting for 20 points.

It was Jones second-highest scoring output of the season (he had 26 points against St. Johns) and his most productive game since suffering a dislocated finger Dec. 17. But even before the injury against Chattanooga, Jones seemed at times to be slumbering through his sophomore campaign.

This is what the preseason choice for Southeastern Conference Player of the Year is supposed to look like.

Thats the Terrence Jones we know, coach John Calipari said. He took that last three, which made me angry, but short of that I wanted him to get a couple of more rebounds. But I wanted him to get aggressive offensively and make baskets and free throws. Thats who he is.

Jones had as many baskets Saturday as he had in the previous three games combined since returning from his injury. He was 8 for 25 from the field over that span, hitting double digits just once. Against South Carolina, Jones had eight points by the break, including a 3-pointer with less than a minute left as No. 2 UK (15-1, 1-0 SEC) closed on an 11-0 run for a 34-18 halftime score.

Jones, 3 of 3 in the half, made his final basket of the game on a jumper with 5:27 left to give the Wildcats a 72-52 lead before missing a long jumper with 40 seconds left.

It was just good to be out there with everybody and just playing better, he said. I think the extra workouts and the extra treatments and preparing myself better to play with more confidence (helped). And being less afraid to get my hand hit is what Ive been working on.

Jones said his finger still causes him pain, but Calipari downplayed the injury. The UK coach said he has implemented tougher conditioning drills with players having to run from the baseline to the free-throw line on the opposite end in three seconds.

Courtesy of www.courier-journal.com

No.1 Joseph has 17, Syracuse holds off Marquette 73-66 - by Eurobasket News
Kris Joseph (6'7''-F-88) scored 17 points, Brandon Triche (6'4''-G-91) added 16, and top-ranked Syracuse remained unbeaten with a gritty 73-66 victory over No. 20 Marquette on Saturday.

Syracuse (17-0, 4-0 Big East) is two wins away from matching the school's best start, established a decade ago.

Marquette (12-4, 1-2) entered the game 1-7 against the top-ranked teams. The Golden Eagles' lone triumph was 83-69 over Kentucky in the 2003 NCAA tournament, which earned them a trip to the Final Four in New Orleans, where Carmelo Anthony led Syracuse to its lone national championship. The Golden Eagles lost 82-77 to Duke in November 2010 in their previous try.

C.J. Fair had 13 points and Dion Waiters added 12 to go with seven assists and three steals.

Darius Johnson-Odom (6'2''-G-89) led Marquette with 19 points and Jae Crowder (6'6''-F) had 15.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

No. 7 Duke women beat NC State 83-59 - by Eurobasket News
Richa Jackson (6'0''-F) scored a career-high 21 points to help No. 7 Duke beat North Carolina State 83-59 on Sunday.

Tricia Liston (6'1''-G) added 14 points and a career-high 11 rebounds for the Blue Devils (12-2, 3-0 Atlantic Coast Conference), who had five players score in double figures. Duke led the entire game, though the Blue Devils had some trouble putting away the Wolfpack until blowing the game open in the final minutes.

Duke shot 47 percent and scored 37 points off 24 turnovers by the Wolfpack (10-6, 0-3), with Chelsea Gray (5'11''-G) adding 12 points and eight assists while leading the Blue Devils' attack.

Marissa Kastanek and Bonae Holston each had 12 points to lead N.C. State.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Mitch ALBERS
  Nebraska.
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 18.4

1. Albers, Nebraska.	18.4
2. Carter, Longwood	17.9
3. Broussard, Seattle	17.2
4. Bowman, Longwood	13.3
5. Karhoff, Nebraska.	13.3
6. Trent, Seattle	11.5
7. Carey, Longwood	11.4
8. Grayson, CSU B.	11.3
9. Carter, CSU B.	10.6
10. Wallace, Seattle	10.1

Rebounds Per Game

Antwan CARTER
  Longwood
  (198-C-)
  Avg: 8.8

1. Carter, Longwood	8.8
2. Wallace, Seattle	8.0
3. Welhouse, Nebras.	7.1
4. Savage, CSU B.	6.4
5. Broussard, Seattle	6.1
6. van der Kooi., Lon.	5.3
7. Trent, Seattle	5.0
8. Johnson, CSU B.	4.6
9. Hagerbaumer, Nebra.	4.6
10. Carey, Longwood	4.5

Assists Per Game

Jeremiah BOWMAN
  Longwood
  (187-G-)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Bowman, Longwood	5.8
2. Grayson, CSU B.	5.4
3. Steffensmeie., Neb.	3.7
4. Albers, Nebraska.	3.0
5. Carey, Longwood	2.9
6. Burrell, Seattle	2.8
7. Obasi, Seattle	2.6
8. Washington, Longw.	2.3
9. Carter, Nebraska.	2.2
10. Carter, CSU B.	2.2

Steals Per Game

Stephon CARTER
  CSU B.
  (190-G-)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Carter, CSU B.	1.8
2. Broussard, Seattle	1.7
3. Bowman, Longwood	1.6
4. Grayson, CSU B.	1.6
5. Carey, Longwood	1.2
6. Albers, Nebraska.	1.1
7. Carter, Nebraska.	1.1
8. Trent, Seattle	1.0
9. Obasi, Seattle	1.0
10. Tate, Seattle	0.9

Blocks Per Game

Matt HAGERBAUMER
  Nebras.
  (200-F-)
  Avg: 1.1