Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/14/2012

Copyright � 1997-2012 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com

Men News

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

ABA

Standings

ABA Standings

1. ABA-Canada		0-0
Atlantic South
1. Athens R.		5-0
2. Atlanta E.		4-1
3. Heartland H.		3-0
4. Jacksonville		3-1
5. Atlanta Aliens		2-1
6. Georgia G.		1-0
7. Florida T.		0-0
8. Orlando Kings		0-0
9. Savannah Storm		0-0
10. Tampa		0-0
11. Columbus R.		0-2
12. E.Point Jaguars		0-7
California NW
1. Seattle M.		8-2
2. Bay Area M.		5-2
3. S.Francisco R.		5-4
4. Central Valley T.		4-0
5. Richmond R.		4-5
6. Modesto H.		3-2
7. Port City P.		3-2
8. Alaska Q.		3-3
9. E.Bay Pitbulls		1-0
10. California SK		0-0
11. Chico Rage		0-1
12. Washington R.		0-1
13. Sacramento H.		0-6
California South
1. Arizona S.		11-2
2. San Diego Sol		10-2
3. San Diego S.		4-4
4. LA Slam		3-6
5. Riverside R.		1-2
6. Las Vegas A.		0-2
7. SoCal Swish		0-4
8. Shizuoka G.		0-5
Colonial
1. NoVa Wonders		4-1
2. Richmond E.		4-1
3. Lynchburg L.		4-4
4. W.Virginia B.		3-4
5. Portsmouth C.		2-2
6. E.Kentucky En.		0-0
7. Norfolk Sh.		0-0
8. Seven Cities		0-0
Great Lake
1. Chicago Steam		6-0
2. Milwaukee B.		3-0
3. Chi-Town B.		0-0
4. Indy S.		0-0
5. Midwest Flames		0-0
6. Oshkosh		0-0
7. Cleveland H.		0-1
8. Porter County P.		0-2
Mid Atlantic
1. Carolina C.		7-3
2. Carolina Ch.		6-4
3. East Carolina T.		4-4
4. Nashville S.		3-0
5. S.Carol.W.		2-0
6. Tennessee MH		2-9
7. Fayetteville F.		1-8
8. Clarksville C.		0-2
9. Carolina J.		0-5
Mid Central
1. Lima Explosion		4-2
2. Greencastle GK		2-0
3. Indianapolis		2-0
4. Detroit Hoops		1-1
5. Lansing L.		1-1
6. Flint Fire		0-0
7. Dayton GCHF		0-2
8. Michiana M.		0-2
Northeast
1. Connecticut T.		6-0
2. Jersey Expr.		4-6
3. Island Vipers		1-3
4. Conn. Chill		0-0
5. NY Red Riders		0-0
6. Rochester		0-0
7. Syracuse SW		0-0
8. New York Ch.		0-1
9. NYC Thunder		0-3
Panhandle
1. Gulf Coast F.		6-1
2. Louisiana U.P.		0-0
3. Mobile Bay H.		0-0
4. Panama City D.		0-1
Rocky Mountain
1. Colorado K.		13-0
2. Colorado C.		4-6
3. Crusaders		2-4
4. Wyoming R.		0-4
South Central
1. Bluff City R.		11-1
2. Conway C.		11-2
3. Little Rock L.		6-4
4. Missouri R.		2-3
5. N.E. Arkansas		1-8
6. St.Louis P.		1-9
7. Delta S.		0-0
South West
1. Texas Fuel		8-2
2. North Dallas		6-1
3. West Texas W.		3-4
4. Houston R.S.		2-0
5. Oklahoma		2-6
6. N.Texas F.		1-6
7. Dallas Impact		0-0
8. Team Havok		0-0
Touring Team
1. Rocky Mountain S.		0-1
2. Team Haiti		0-1
3. West Virginia B.		0-1
4. Appalachian R.		0-2
5. Calgary C.		0-2
6. Chicago F.		0-3

Whirlwinds defeat Gymrats - by Gianni Pascucci
On January 11, the West Texas Whirlwinds defeated the Shizuoka Gymrats, 121-94. It was a big return in Whirlwinds team for veteran Berry Whitley (5'9''-G-81, college: SUNO). He had 6th triple double in team history with 21 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists. Newcomer Teddy Chambers (6'6''-G/F) scored 15 points and big Billy Wilson (6'8''-F/C-84, college: N.C.Central) ended the game at 20 pts and 16 rebs. Gregg Traellis (6'5''-F) added 14 point 7 assist. On saturday, January 7 night, Marlo Saunders (6'5''-F-84, college: Texas-PB) had broken his own record of 55 points by scoring 64 (!!) vs the Hill County team.

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

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

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

AUSTRALIA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Wildcats		12-5
2. Breakers		12-5
3. Taipans		9-7
4. Tigers		9-8
5. Kings		8-9
6. Crocodiles		7-6
7. Blaze		6-8
8. 36ers		5-11
9. Hawks		3-12

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Cameron TRAGARDH
  Tigers
  (209-C/F-83)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Tragardh, Tigers	19.4
2. Mills, Tigers	18.6
3. Lisch, Wildcats	17.3
4. Khazzouh, Kings	17.2
5. Crawford, Croco.	16.8
6. Wilson, Taipans	16.5
7. Johnson, 36ers	16.4
8. Wilkinson, Breakers	15.7
9. Warren, 36ers	15.4
10. Simpsons, 36ers	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Khazzouh, Kings	11.0
2. Holmes, Crocodiles	9.7
3. Grant, Kings	8.6
4. Simpsons, 36ers	8.5
5. Crosswhite, Taipa.	7.9
6. Johnson, 36ers	7.6
7. Worthington, Blaze	6.8
8. Vukona, Breakers	6.6
9. Knight, Wildcats	6.4
10. Saville, Hawks	6.3

Assists Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6

1. Jackson, Breakers	6.0
2. Mills, Tigers	5.0
3. Crosswell, 36ers	4.7
4. Gibson, Blaze	4.6
5. Gill, Crocodiles	4.5
6. Bruce, Kings	4.4
7. Ubaka, Tigers	3.4
8. Martin, Hawks	3.4
9. Lisch, Wildcats	3.3
10. Warren, 36ers	3.3

Steals Per Game

Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Martin, Wildcats	2.7
2. Jackson, Breakers	2.6
3. Robbins, Wildcats	1.8
4. Mims, Crocodiles	1.6
5. Tovey, Wildcats	1.3
6. Gibson, Blaze	1.3
7. Glover, Hawks	1.2
8. Crawford, Croco.	1.2
9. Loughton, Taipans	1.1
10. Lisch, Wildcats	1.1

Blocks Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Khazzouh, Kings	2.4
2. Simpsons, 36ers	1.5
3. Grant, Kings	1.5
4. Worthington, Blaze	1.2
5. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.2
6. Johnson, 36ers	1.2
7. Nevill, Wildcats	1.2
8. Abercrombie, Break.	1.0
9. Knight, Wildcats	0.9
10. Pledger, Breakers	0.8

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

AUSTRIA

Panthers add Shooting Guard Reece Gaines - by Stefan Prager
The Furstenfeld Panthers announced that they have added shooting guard Reece Gaines (198-G-81, college: Louisville) to their roster. The 31 year old Gaines brings some experience to the Panthers squad. After a standout collegiate career at Louisville Gaines was selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic. he spent one season with the Magic before being dealt to the Houston Rockets as a part of the Tracy McGrady trade. In February 2005 Gaines was traded again this time to the Milwaukee Bucks. After three seasons in the NBA Gaines went to play overseas suiting up in Italy for Biella, Milano and Treviso. Gaines basically spent the last two seasons in the D- League with short stints also in Greece, Spain and France. Gaines is expected to have his debut on Sunday when the Panthers will travel to Traiskirchen to play the Lions.

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

BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Muharraq		10-0
2. Al Ahli		8-2
3. Al Manama		7-3
4. Al Hala		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

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

BALKAN LEAGUE

Levski Sofia bring in Jarrett Howell - by Eurobasket News
Levski Sofia bring in Jarrett Howell (180-PG-84, college: Texas Arlington) for the rest of the season. The American player left Romanian CS Gaz Metan Medias after three seasons.
In 2009-2010 Jarrett moved to CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A) and in Balkan League averaged high 17.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 88.2%. In Romanian League his stats read 16.9ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-1 (5.9apg), Steals-3 (2.3spg), FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 86.6%. In 2010-2011 for CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A, starting five) he showed 14.2ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-4 (5.2apg), Steals-4 (2.2spg), FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 83.8%.
The season 2011-2012 he continued for CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A, starting five) but played in 14 games. He averaged 15.9 points per game and 5.3 assists. He recorded 27 points at the Regular Season Round 2 when his team overwhelmed Politehnica 134:43. Gaz Metan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Politehnica's 18. American center Scott VanderMeer had a double-double by scoring 29 points and 14 rebounds, while Jarrett Howell had 27 points and 4 assists.

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

BALTIC LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Bowles, Siauliai	20.1
2. Krumins, Jelgava	19.1
3. Kalve, Valmiera	18.7
4. Hallik, Tarvas	17.2
5. Barinov, Naglis P.	17.0
6. Soo, Rapla	17.0
7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	16.6
8. Mayo, Liepaja	16.3
9. Runkaukas, Neptun.	16.0
10. Laksa, Barsy Aty.	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	10.5
2. Ringmets, Rapla	9.1
3. Johnson, Naglis P.	8.8
4. Galdikas, Neptunas	8.7
5. McClure, Kedainiai	8.6
6. Mednis, Turiba	8.6
7. Nelson, Jelgava	8.2
8. Arnold, TT.	7.9
9. Barinov, Naglis P.	7.9
10. Benn, Naglis Pala.	7.8

Assists Per Game

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

1. Kriisa, Tarvas	5.5
2. Maceina, Juventus	5.4
3. Broadus, Siauliai	5.4
4. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	5.2
5. Dainys, Neptunas	5.0
6. Dorbek, Tarvas	4.8
7. Janavicius, Baltai	4.4
8. Tsiopych, Barsy A.	4.4
9. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
10. Benn, Naglis Pala.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Dainius SALENGA
  Rudupis
  (197-F-77)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
2. Virsis, Valmiera	2.2
3. Keedus, TT.	2.1
4. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
5. McKee, Triumph	2.0
6. Benn, Naglis Palan.	2.0
7. Kriisa, Tarvas	2.0
8. Oja, Tarvas	1.8
9. Matulionis, Techas.	1.8
10. Elksnis, Valmiera	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. Masiulis, Kedainiai	1.5
6. Staniulis, Techasas	1.4
7. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	1.3
8. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
9. Morgan, Pieno Z.	1.1
10. Cipruss, Tarvas	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. Ventspils			7-5
6. Pieno Zvaigzdes			6-5
7. Juventus			5-6
8. Tartu Ulikool			4-8
9. Kedainiai			3-8
10. Liepaja			2-10
11. Baltai Kaunas			2-10
Challenge Cup
Group A
1. Naglis Palangos			5-2
2. Neptunas			5-2
3. Tarvas			4-2
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-5
5. Jelgava			1-7
Group B
1. Techasas			7-2
2. Sakalai			7-2
3. Valmiera			6-3
4. TTU/Kalev			3-6
5. Rapla			2-7
6. Turiba			2-7

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

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

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

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

1. Copeland, Aalstar	19.4
2. Mallet, Spirou	16.3
3. Bostic, Liege	16.1
4. Rich, Oostende	15.7
5. Freeman, Leuven	15.4
6. Lojeski, Oostende	14.5
7. Tofi, Leuven	14.1
8. Booker, Oostende	13.9
9. Haynes, Gent	13.4
10. Green, Spirou	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. McLean, Leuven	6.6
5. Young, Aalstar	6.6
6. Booker, Oostende	6.3
7. Bostic, Liege	5.7
8. Merriex, Verviers.	5.6
9. Chaney, Gent	5.6
10. Matela, Liege	5.5

Assists Per Game

Dusan DJORDJEVIC
  Ooste.
  (195-G-83)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Djordjevic, Ooste.	4.7
2. Waters, Liege	4.0
3. Marnegrave, Leuven	3.5
4. Bosco, Gent	3.5
5. Thompson, Verviers.	3.4
6. Singletary, M.Hain.	3.0
7. Rich, Oostende	2.9
8. Black, Antwerp	2.9
9. Winston, Oostende	2.8
10. Mallet, Spirou	2.8

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. Ruoff, Aalstar	1.8
9. Haynes, Gent	1.8
10. Jenkins, Gent	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	1.3
4. Young, Aalstar	1.1
5. Booker, Oostende	1.0
6. Love, Verviers-Pep.	1.0
7. Holiday, Aalstar	0.8
8. Vaughn, Antwerp	0.5
9. Heinle, Gent	0.5
10. Gillet, Liege	0.5

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

BOSNIA

Enisey cuts Jasmin Hukic - by Nedzad Kladusak
Enisey decided to replace former Bosnian NT captain Jasmin Hukic by Dusan Sakota.
It s a reaction after the rather dissapointing results of the team that currently holds the 8th rank of the Russian championship with only one victory out of seven games.
Jasmin Hukic averaged 4,8 points and 3,2 rebounds in 18 minutes.
Jasmin Hukic became few years ago Slovenian citizen that will make it easier for him to find a new team.

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

BRAZIL

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. Unitri/Universo		11-2
2. Flamengo		10-2
3. Itabom/Bauru		10-2
4. Pinheiros/Sky		10-3
5. Paulistano		9-3
6. S.Jose/Unimed		8-4
7. Uniceub/BRB		6-5
8. Liga Sorocaba		5-7
9. Cia do Terno		5-7
10. Tijuca TC		4-8
11. Winner/Limeira		4-8
12. Minas		4-8
13. Vivo/Franca		3-9
14. Vila Velha		1-11
15. Araraquara		1-12

Araraquara celebrate first NBB win in the season - by Eurobasket News
Araraquara drew first blood in NBB season. They overcame visiting Tijuca 81:77. Daniel Costa (204-F/C-81) scored 24 points to lead the hosts. Araraquara built a 42:29 halftime lead and hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Ricardo de Azevedo (201-F-83) finished with 17 points for the winners. Rodrigo Bahia Bispo (206-C/F-79) accounted for 15 points in the loss.
Flamengo outgunned Winner/Limeira 91:80 on the road. David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) unloaded 23 points to lead the effort. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) had 20 points in the victory. Vitor Benite (190-F/G-90) scored 16 points for Winner/Limeira.
Paulistano earned the ninth win in the season as they held off Joinville 90:79. Felipe Ribeiro (201-F-79) stepped up with 21 points. Pedro Lima (190-G-87) had 16 points for Paulistano. Joinville answered with 17 points from Rashad Bishop (198-F-88, college: Cincinnati).
Itabom/Bauru toppled Minas 78:70 away from home. Jefferson Agba (209-F/C-80, college: Embry Riddle) had 17 points as the winners improved at 10-2 record. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) chipped in 13 points in the win. Mark Borders (188-G-82, college: Tampa) accounted for 16 points for Minas.

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

BULGARIA

Standings A1

NBL Standings

1. Lukoil Academik		13-0
2. Levski Sofia		10-3
3. Rilski Sportist		9-5
4. Tundja Yambol		7-6
5. Cherno More		7-6
6. Balkan		3-10
7. Spartak Pleven		2-11
8. Chernomorets		2-12

Levski added new American guard - by Valentin Anguelov
Jarrett Howell (180-PG-84, college: Texas Arlington) is the latest addition of mens team of Levski. Week before the deadline of the transfer market in National Basketball League 'The blues' signed with a point guard from USA until the rest of the season. The latest additions will allow the coaching staff to have more opportunities in the guard position and in particular of position one.

Howell is 180 cm tall, but is extremely fast, which allows him to attack the basket more often than usual for that position. American comes from northern neighbor Romania, where he played for Gaz Metan. During this season, Howell has averaged 15.9 points, 5.3 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 31.9 minutes per game in the Romanian championship. In Romania he played the last 2 and a half years. Before that he was in Ukraine, where he played in the All-Star Game and was selected in the best defensive team in the league in 2009. Besides Ukraine, Howell also played in the leagues of Denmark and Poland. In Denmark he won the Cup and became MVP (most valuable player) in the final.

Howell graduated from the college of Texas Arlington in the U.S. and also has participated in the University of Niagara.

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.	16.4
6. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	14.8
7. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	14.7
8. Dunovic, Chernomo.	14.3
9. Hall, Levski Sofia	14.1
10. Pavlovski, Cherno.	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Evtimov, Levski So.	10.8
2. Pavlovski, Chernom.	10.2
3. Yanev, Cherno More	9.6
4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	8.5
5. Petkov, Tundja Y.	7.2
6. Vukosavljevi., Ril.	6.7
7. Zahariev, Rilski S.	6.7
8. Todorov, Spartak	6.3
9. Slaveykov, Sparta.	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.	4.9
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. Dunovic, Chernomo.	2.0
7. Durchev, Tundja Y.	2.0
8. Marinov, Balkan	2.0
9. Petkov, Tundja Y.	1.9
10. Mirkovic, Rilski	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. Sundov, Lukoil A.	0.7
8. Gocevski, Tundja Y.	0.6
9. Mijajlovic, Rilski	0.6
10. Yanev, Cherno Mo.	0.4

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

CANADA

Points Per Game

Justin KING
  TRU
  (--)
  Avg: 25.6

1. King, TRU	25.6
2. Fassett, St.Mary''s	22.6
3. Thomas, St.Franc.	21.6
4. Mackinnon, Victoria	21.6
5. Yu, UBC	21.5
6. Diloreto, Windsor	21.3
7. Barbeau, Western	20.6
8. Habib, Memorial	20.3
9. Baker, Alberta	20.3
10. Coston, TWU	20.3

Rebounds Per Game

Lien PHILLIP
  Windsor
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Phillip, Windsor	11.1
2. Burke, UBC	11.0
3. King, TRU	10.7
4. Baker, Alberta	10.6
5. Klassen, Acadia	9.6
6. Lieffers, Saskatch.	9.4
7. Desroches, New B.	8.9
8. Staniscia, Ryerson	8.5
9. Coward, Lethbridge	8.2
10. Kok, TRU	8.1

Assists Per Game

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

1. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	8.1
2. Helsby, Memorial	6.3
3. Kraus, Brock	6.1
4. Kanza Mata, Dalho.	5.9
5. Collins, Windsor	5.9
6. Smith, TWU	5.7
7. Shepherd, Memorial	5.7
8. Yu, UBC	5.5
9. Bonhomme, Brandon	5.4
10. Vernon, St.Franc.	5.4

Steals Per Game

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

1. Laroche, Concordia	4.5
2. Thomas, St.Franc.	3.4
3. Collins, Windsor	3.1
4. Smith, TWU	3.0
5. Cooper, Lethbridge	2.9
6. Brown, UPEI	2.7
7. Oliver, Manitoba	2.7
8. Lieffers, Saskatch.	2.6
9. Cote-K., UQ.	2.6
10. Sy-M., McGill	2.6

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Bains, UBC	2.0
2. Andrews, Bishop''s	1.8
3. Coward, Lethbridge	1.7
4. Klassen, Acadia	1.6
5. Glisic, Toronto Un.	1.4
6. Eyitayo, Concordia	1.3
7. Thomas, St.Franc.	1.3
8. Duke, UPEI	1.3
9. Tufegdzich, York	1.1
10. Buckley, Laurier	1.1

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

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

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

CHILE

Standings - LIBSUR

DIMAYOR Standings

1. Liceo Mixto		16-2
2. U.Concepcion		15-0
3. Dep.Espanol		12-6
4. U.Espanola		9-9
5. Sokol de Antof.		6-10
6. U.Catolica		5-12
7. San Luis		3-12
8. Munic.Curacavi		0-15

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

CHINA

Standings - CBA

CBA Standings

1. Guandong ST		19-4
2. DongGuan L.		15-8
3. Beijing Ducks		15-8
4. Guangsha L.		14-8
5. Liaoning H.		13-10
6. Zhejiang C.		12-9
7. Shanghai S.		12-10
8. Fujian XX		12-11
9. Shanxi Zh.		11-10
10. Xinjiang F.T.		11-10
11. Qingdao DS		10-13
12. Jilin NE T.		10-13
13. Shandong FB		9-14
14. Bayi Fubang		7-14
15. Jiangsu D.		7-16
16. TianJin R.		7-16
17. Foshan		6-16

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	32.5
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	30.1
4. Chandler, Guangsha.	28.1
5. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	28.1
6. McDonald, Fujian X.	27.8
7. Mills, Xinjiang.	26.5
8. Martin, Jilin N.	26.1
9. Akognon, DongGuan.	25.7
10. Roberson, Fujian	25.3

Rebounds Per Game

Zaid ABBAS
  Fujian XX
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 15

1. Abbas, Fujian XX	15.0
2. Ramos, Guangsha L.	13.4
3. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	13.4
4. Gadzuric, Jiang.	13.1
5. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	13.1
6. Harvey, TianJin R.	13.1
7. Hunter, Shandong	12.9
8. Randolph, DongGua.	12.3
9. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.1
10. Chandler, Guangsh.	11.8

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.9
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	6.9
3. Yang, Liaoning H.	6.5
4. Marbury, Beijing	6.4
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	5.5
6. Mengke, Xinjiang.	5.0
7. Brooks, Guandong	5.0
8. Anderson, Shandon.	4.5
9. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.4
10. Lee, Beijing Ducks	4.3

Steals Per Game

Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3

1. Hudson, Qingdao DS	3.0
2. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.9
3. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.8
4. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.6
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	2.5
6. Anderson, Shandon.	2.5
7. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.4
8. Hu, Jiangsu D.	2.4
9. Williams, Shanxi Z.	2.3
10. Mills, Xinjiang.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

ZhongHao XU
  Bayi Fubang
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Xu, Bayi Fubang	2.1
2. Gadzuric, Jiang.	2.0
3. Zhang, Shanghai S.	1.8
4. Douthit, Foshan	1.8
5. Randolph, DongGua.	1.8
6. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.6
7. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.6
8. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	1.5
9. Carney, Liaoning H.	1.5
10. Watkins, Jilin N.	1.3

Guangdong Extends Lead to Four Games - by Arthur Volbert
Guangdong won again, Beijing lost again, and Dongguan moved into a tie for second place in the CBA as Zhejiang Guangsha lost as well. Guangdong is now 19=4 and has a four-game lead over Beijing and Dongguan at 15-8, while Guangsha is fourth at 14-8.

Aaron Brooks had 31 points and 5 assists as Guangdong topped Foshan 133-124. James Singleton had 16 points and 6 rebounds. Zhu Fangyu and Wang Shipeng each scored 15. Zhou Peng had 13 points, 5 rebounds and 5 steals. Dong Hanlin had 12 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals. Su Wei had 8 points and 5 rebounds. Michel Maadanly had 42 points and 6 rebounds for Foshan. Marcus Douthit had 30 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Marcus Haislip had 16 points and 3 rebounds. Zheng Zhun had 14 points and 5 rebounds. Luo Zhi scored 9. Yang Wenbo had 8 points and 6 rebounds.

Charles Gaines had 28 points and 14 rebounds as Shanxi edged Beijing 114-111. Marcus Williams had 19 points and 5 assists. Lv Xiaoming had 19 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists. Zhang Xuewen had 14 points and 5 rebounds. Ren Junhui had 12 points and 8 rebounds. Bao Zhaobao had 8 points and 2 rebounds. Randolph Morris had 32 points and 11 rebounds for Beijing. Stephon Marbury had 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Zhai Xiaochuan had 22 points and 8 rebounds. Xie Libin had 19 points and 11 rebounds. Ji Zhe had 10 points and 7 rebounds. Zhu Yanxi had 6 points and 5 rebounds.

Jilin smashed Zhejiang Guangsha 93-74. Osama Daghlas had 25 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Lu Wei had 20 points and 5 rebounds. Jameel Watkins had 19 points and 15 rebounds. Cartier Martin had 18 points and 5 rebounds. Zhong Cheng had 11 points and 5 rebounds. Peter John Ramos had 22 points and 19 rebounds for Guangsha. Wilson Chandler had 12 points and 8 rebounds. Lin Chih-Chieh had 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Zhang Wei had 7 points and 6 rebounds.

Josh Akognon had 24 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists as Dongguan defeated Shandong 95-89. Shavlik Randolph had 18 points and 13 rebounds. Hung Chih-Shan scored 17. Sun Tonglin had 13 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Qiu Biao had 11 points and 4 rebounds. Zhang Kai had 4 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Neither young seven-footer, Sun Zhe or Li Muhao, saw any playing time. Othello Hunter had 24 points and 15 rebounds for Shandong. Ding Yanyuhang scored 16. Wu Ke had 12 points and 8 rebounds. Tao Hanlin had 11 points and 4 rebounds. Yang Yue had 11 points and 3 rebounds. Sui Ran had 10 points and 7 rebounds. Allan Anderson did not play.

Playing without star import Rodney Carney, and star native point guard Yang Ming, Liaoning defeated Shanghai 93-84. Zhang Qingpeng had 20 points and 5 rebounds. Josh Powell had 19 points and 12 rebounds. He Tianju had 13 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Han Dejun won his battle with fellow young seven-footer Zhang Zhaoxu with 12 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Zhang had 11 points but only 1 rebound. Guo Ailun had 10 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists. Liu Shunan scored 10. Li Xiaoxu had 9 points and 14 rebounds. Michael Harris had 30 points and 8 rebounds for Shanghai. Marcus Landry had 21 points and 4 rebounds. Liu Wei had 2 points and 6 assists, hitting only 1 of 9 shots, against Zhang Qingpeng and Guo Ailun.

Lester Hudson had 26 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as Qingdao beat Fujian 110-104. Young Li Gen continued his star play this year with 25 points. Xue Yuyang scored 20 and Cai Liang had 17. Olumide Oyedeji had 11 points and 16 rebounds. Will McDonald had 30 points and 5 rebounds for Fujian. Anthony Roberson had 30 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Zaid Abbas had 17 points and 13 rebounds. Guo Lei had 9 points and 3 rebounds.

Jiangsu defeated Bayi 112-94. Yi Li had 24 points and 5 rebounds. Liu Yahui scored 17. Jackson Vroman had 16 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Meng Da scored 15 and Hu Xuefeng had 14. Song Kangming had 12 points and 11 rebounds. Wang Zhizhi had 17 points and 5 rebounds for Bayi. Delehei scored 15. Xu Zhonghao had 12 points and 9 rebounds. Tian Yuxiang scored 12 and Wang Lei and Zhang Bo each had 10.

Pickett Tim (193-G/F-81, college: Florida St.) had 55 points and 12 rebounds as Xinjiang defeated Tianjin 134-112. Gani Lawal had 25 points and 10 rebounds. Xirelijiang scored 16. Tang Zhengdong had 15 points and 4 rebounds. Meng Duo scored 12. Donnell Harvey had 24 points and 11 rebounds for Tianjin. Shen Tujun had 25 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. David Harrison had 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 blocks. Xu Lei had 13 points and 5 rebounds. Zhang Zhihan scored 12 and Zhang Nan had 9.

Only 9 games to go... - by Alex Yam
The CBA season is in its homestretch, as there are about 9 games to go, plus or minus for each team. Clearly Guangdong is the top team, as they have amassed a 4 game lead on surprise 2nd place Dongguan, who started the season 0-4, Beijing who was red hot at 14-0, have now lost 8 of their last 9, and are feeling the effects of injuries, especially at the guard position. Marbury is putting the team on his back, but can not do it himself clearly, as the loss HSUEH-LIN LEE, has really had a negative impact on the team.

Xinjiang who made a huge offseason splash when they signed former #1 pick, Kenyon Martin, has stumbled to a 11-10 record and in danger of missing the playoffs. Their biggest nemesis, was an preseason injury to star shooting guard Quincy Douby, and it is now showing in the standings. A team that started out with Martin and Douby is now closing the season with Tim Pickett and Gani Lawal, as Martin was jettisoned back to the states, and Douby suffered a season ending injury before playing a regular season game. This team however, still boasts a deep and talented roster of Chinese players, and could make a surprise run if they are to able to sneak into the playoffs, and avoid a 1st round matchup with Guangdong, who have NBA big man James Singleton who last season along with Douby led Xinjiang to a 32-1 record, before falling to Gaungdong in the CBA finals. Singleton now shares the floor with NBA guard Aaron Brooks, and the familiar cast of Chinese stars, on Guangdong. Singleton is having a better all around season statistically and it is showing on the floor.

Dongguan, who has been the hottest team in the league, has put together a very impressive run, as they have won 15 of their last 19, and been as impressive as any team in the league. The team is led by scoring guard Josh Akognon, and versatile big man, Shavlik Randolph.

The seasons biggest surprise has been Shanghai who before yesterdays loss to Liaoning, strung together 7 straight wins. The leagues top defensive team, also is one of the teams in the league that spent the least amount of money as far as imports salaries are concerned, are led by 1st year Coach Dan Pannagio, who almost certainly will be a candidate for Coach of the year.

Qingdao has also been impressive in their turnaround, led by star combo guard Lester Hudson, who teamed with Marcus Haislip and won Guangdongs 7th CBA Championship last season. Hudson, who had a triple double in a romp over SBS Fuijian yesterday has quietly put together an MVP type season, and has his team winning and contending for a playoff position.

Shanxi Zhongyu is perhaps the most night and day team, as they tend to struggle against the leagues worse teams. They are led by arguably the top 1-2 import combo is Marcus Williams and Charles Gaines, they have the team contending for a playoff spot as well. They have the pieces in place, so a entry into the top 8 is still in the cards.

Jilin has become a dangerous team as well, since they have 3 imports, much like Qingdao, Tianjin and Fujian, but they boast the top one, in Osama Daghlas, who consistently puts up 'import' like numbers. Jilin is flanked by scoring machine Cartier Martin as the wing, and perennial CBA big man Jameel Watkins, who seems to have found his stride. SBS Fuijan was playing very well early but now it seems like they are sliding, as they are led by all world big man, Will McDonald, who some consider the top big man in the league and rebounding machine Zaid Abbas and shooter Anthony Roberson.

Jiangsu has been a disappointment, as they have gone from a semi finalist to in danger of not making the playoffs and joining the 3rd import lottery. They have strung up 3 wins in a row including wins vs Xinjiang, and Shanxi, and a romp over Bayi.

CBA Round 24: Tim Pickett erupted with 55 points - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 24 in the CBA took place in Taiyuan. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Beijing Ducks (15-8) to ninth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (11-10) 114-111 on Friday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. Beijing Ducks cut a 14-point halftime deficit to three at the end of the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds. The former international guard XiaoMing Lu (176-79) contributed with 19 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) replied with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 11 rebounds for Beijing Ducks. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Shanxi Zhongyu maintains ninth position with 11-10 record, which they share with Xinjiang F.T. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the second place with eight games lost. They share the position with DongGuan L.. Shanxi Zhongyu is looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#16) in Tianjin in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Bayi Fubang (#14) in Ningbo and are hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-8) against twelfth ranked Jilin Tigers (10-13) on Friday night. Visiting Zhejiang Guangsha Lions were crushed by Jilin Tigers in Changchun 93-74. Worth to mention a great performance of Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists and Jameel Watkins who added 19 points and 15 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 19 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Jilin Tigers have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Qingdao DS. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fourth position with eight games lost. Jilin Tigers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play on the road against Liaoning Hunters (#5) in Yingkou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons managed to get the third consecutive victory on Friday night. This time they won against fourteenth-ranked Bayi Fubang in Nanjing 112-94. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 18-point difference suggests that Jiangsu Dragons is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The winners were led by Li Yi who scored that evening 24 points and 5 rebounds. Even 12 points and 9 rebounds by ZhongHao Xu did not help to save the game for Bayi Fubang. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu Dragons have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifteenth place, which they share with TianJin R. Loser Bayi Fubang keeps the fourteenth position with 14 games lost. Jiangsu Dragons will meet higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (#6) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Bayi Fubang will play against Beijing Ducks (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
CBA top team - Guandong Tigers (19-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat sixteenth ranked Foshan (6-16) 133-124. The best player for the winners was Aaron Brooks who scored 31 points and 5 assists. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Guandong Tigers have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 19-4 record. Foshan lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with 16 games lost. Guandong Tigers' next round opponent will be Shanghai Sharks (#7) on the road where they are favorite. Foshan will play against the league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards (#2).
The game in Yingkou was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Shanghai Sharks (12-10) played at the court of seventh ranked Liaoning Hunters (13-10). Liaoning Hunters managed to secure a 9-point victory 93-84 on Friday. It was a good game for Josh Powell who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds. Shanghai Sharks' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to fifth place. Loser Shanghai Sharks dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. Liaoning Hunters will face higher ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#4) in Hangzhou in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Shanghai Sharks will play at home against the league's leader Guandong Tigers in Dongguan.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 24: TianJin R. were smashed by Xinjiang F.T. on the road 134-112. Fujian XX lost to Qingdao DS on its own court 104-110. Shandong FB unfortunately lost to DongGuan L. in a road game 89-95.
The most impressive performance of 24th round was 55 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds by Tim Pickett of Xinjiang F.T..

Xinjiang F.T. - TianJin R. 134-112

No shocking result in a game when tenth ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (11-10) crushed 15th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (7-16) in Urumqi 134-112 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Xinjiang Flying Tige. TianJin Rongcheng was better in fourth quarter 35-31. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Xinjiang Flying Tige dominated down low during the game scoring 84 of its points in the paint compared to TianJin Rongcheng's 54. Xinjiang Flying Tige forced 23 TianJin Rongcheng turnovers. TianJin Rongcheng was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 55 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds. The other American import forward Gani Lawal (206-88, college: Georgia Tech) contributed with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) replied with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds and guard Chun Shentu (187-90) added 25 points in the effort for TianJin Rongcheng. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Xinjiang Flying Tige moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Shanxi Zh. Loser TianJin Rongcheng keeps the fifteenth position with 16 games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige will face Qingdao Double Star (#11) on the road in the next round. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Shanxi Zhongyu (#9) in Taiyuan.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: P.Tim 55+12reb+3ast, L.Gani 25+10reb+1ast, C.Tal 16+1reb+3ast, T.ZhengDong 15+5reb+3ast, P.Duo 12+1reb+5ast, Z.Yong-Gang 6+2reb
TianJin R.: S.Chun 25+3reb+3ast, H.Donnell 24+11reb+2ast, H.David 16+4reb+2ast, X.Lei 13+5reb+1ast, Z.Zhihan 12+2reb+3ast, Z.Nan 9+1reb+1ast

Jilin NE T. - Guangsha L. 93-74

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-8) against twelfth ranked Jilin Tigers (10-13) on Friday night. Visiting Zhejiang Guangsha Lions were crushed by Jilin Tigers in Changchun 93-74. The game was mostly controlled by Jilin Tigers. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions was better in fourth quarter 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jilin Tigers forced 19 Zhejiang Guangsha Lions turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists and American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) who added 19 points and 15 rebounds during the contest. Five Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 19 rebounds and Taiwanese guard Chih-Chieh Lin (192-82) scored 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Jilin Tigers have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Qingdao DS. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fourth position with eight games lost. Jilin Tigers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play on the road against Liaoning Hunters (#5) in Yingkou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Jilin NE T.: D.Osama 25+13reb+5ast, L.Wei 20+5reb, W.Jameel 19+15reb, M.Cartier 18+5reb, Z.Cheng 11+5reb+2ast, C.Ya-Song 0
Guangsha L.: R.Peter John 22+19reb, L.Chih-Chieh 13+6reb+4ast, C.Wilson 12+8reb+2ast, Z.Wei 7+6reb, W.Bo 6+2reb+1ast, Z.Yongpeng 6

Liaoning H. - Shanghai S. 93-84

The game in Yingkou was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Shanghai Sharks (12-10) played at the court of seventh ranked Liaoning Hunters (13-10). Liaoning Hunters managed to secure a 9-point victory 93-84 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 28-14 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Liaoning Hunters outrebounded Shanghai Sharks 42-27 including 28 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Liaoning Hunters made 9 blocks. Shanghai Sharks were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American forward Josh Powell (206-83, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds. International point guard QinPeng Zhang (188-81) contributed with 20 points and 5 assists for the winners. Four Liaoning Hunters players scored in double figures. American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) replied with 30 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Marcus Landry (201-85, college: Wisconsin) added 21 points in the effort for Shanghai Sharks. Shanghai Sharks' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to fifth place. Loser Shanghai Sharks dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. Liaoning Hunters will face higher ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#4) in Hangzhou in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Shanghai Sharks will play at home against the league's leader Guandong Tigers in Dongguan.
Top scorers:
Liaoning H.: Z.QinPeng 20+5ast, P.Josh 19+12reb+2ast, H.Tian-ju 13+5reb+3ast, H.Dejun 12+4reb+3ast, G.Ailun 10+4reb+7ast, L.Shunan 10+3reb+1ast
Shanghai S.: H.Mike 30+8reb+1ast, L.Marcus 21+4reb+1ast, Z.ZhaoXu 11+1reb+1ast, J.Xiang 6+2reb, M.Lingyuan 5+3reb+2ast, W.Yong-Liang 4+3ast

Jiangsu D. - Bayi Fubang 112-94

Bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons managed to get the third consecutive victory on Friday night. This time they won against fourteenth-ranked Bayi Fubang in Nanjing 112-94. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 18-point difference suggests that Jiangsu Dragons is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu Dragons. Bayi Fubang managed to win fourth quarter 27-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jiangsu Dragons forced 21 Bayi Fubang turnovers. The winners were led by international swingman Li Yi (203-85) who scored that evening 24 points and 5 rebounds and American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) supported him with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Even 12 points and 9 rebounds by the former international center ZhongHao Xu (212-90) did not help to save the game for Bayi Fubang. The former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-77) added 17 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu Dragons have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifteenth place, which they share with TianJin R. Loser Bayi Fubang keeps the fourteenth position with 14 games lost. Jiangsu Dragons will meet higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (#6) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Bayi Fubang will play against Beijing Ducks (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu D.: Y.Li 24+5reb+1ast, L.Yahui 17+3reb, V.Jackson 16+6reb+4ast, M.Da 15+3reb+3ast, H.XueFeng 14+1ast, S.KangMing 12+11reb+2ast
Bayi Fubang: W.ZhiZhi 17+5reb+1ast, D.Lehei 15+3reb, T.Xiang 12+2reb, X.ZhongHao 12+9reb+2ast, Z.Bo 10+1reb, W.Lei 10+3reb+3ast

Foshan - Guandong ST 124-133

CBA top team - Guandong Tigers (19-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat sixteenth ranked Foshan (6-16) 133-124. The guests were already 14 points ahead at halftime and as many as 22 after three quarters before a 42-29 last quarter charge of Foshan cut the lead to 133-124 at the end of the game. Guandong Tigers forced 22 Foshan turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Guandong Tigers especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. 27 personal fouls committed by Foshan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) who scored 31 points and 5 assists. The other American import forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Syrian guard Michel Maadanly (195-81) who recorded 42 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) added 30 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 blocks respectively. Five Guandong Tigers and four Foshan players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Guandong Tigers have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 19-4 record. Foshan lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with 16 games lost. Guandong Tigers' next round opponent will be Shanghai Sharks (#7) on the road where they are favorite. Foshan will play against the league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards (#2).
Top scorers:
Guandong ST: B.Aaron 31+2reb+5ast, S.James 16+6reb, W.ShiPeng 15+1reb, Z.FangYu 15+3reb, Z.Peng 13+5reb, H.Dong 12+5reb+1ast
Foshan: M.Michel 42+6reb+3ast, D.Marcus 30+8reb+5ast, H.Marcus 16+3reb+1ast, Z.Zhun 14+5reb+1ast, L.Zhi 9+1ast, Y.Wenbo 8+6reb+2ast

Fujian XX - Qingdao DS 104-110

There was a minor upset when 8th ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (12-11) lost to eleventh ranked Qingdao Double Star (10-13) in Jinjiang 104-110 on Friday. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 30-21 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Qingdao Double Star made 25-of-31 free shots (80.6 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) who led his team to a victory with a triple-double by scoring 26 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists. Forward Gen Li (196-88) contributed with 25 points for the winners. Five Qingdao Double Star players scored in double figures. American guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) replied with 30 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and his fellow American import center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) added 32 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Fujian SBS XunXin. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Qingdao Double Star maintains eleventh position with 10-13 record, which they share with Jilin NE T. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the eighth place with 11 games lost. Qingdao Double Star will face higher ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (#10) in Urumqi in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: H.Lester 26+10reb+11ast, L.Gen 25+3reb+2ast, X.YuYang 20+2reb, C.Liang 17+4reb, O.Olumide 11+16reb+1ast, S.Sani 6+5reb+1ast
Fujian XX: M.Will 32+5reb+1ast, R.Anthony 30+7reb+5ast, A.Zaid 17+13reb+2ast, G.Lei 9+3reb+1ast, Z.TaiLong 6+2reb, Y.GengLin 5+7reb+1ast

DongGuan L. - Shandong FB 95-89

Very predictable result when fourth ranked DongGuan Leopards (15-8) won against at home 13th ranked Shandong Bulls (9-14) 95-89 on Friday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 53-46 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) who led his team to a victory with 24 points and 4 assists. American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) contributed with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St., agency: David Lee services) replied with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds and forward Ding Yanyuhang (200-93) added 16 points in the effort for Shandong Bulls. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. DongGuan Leopards have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Beijing Ducks. Loser Shandong Bulls keep the thirteenth position with 14 games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face bottom-ranked Foshan (#17) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Shandong Bulls will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#8) in Jinjiang.
Top scorers:
DongGuan L.: A.Josh-Emmanuel 24+4reb+4ast, R.Shavlik 18+13reb+1ast, H.Chih-Shan 17+1reb+1ast, S.TongLin 13+8reb+3ast, Q.Biao 11+4reb+2ast, G.QuAn 6+1reb+2ast
Shandong FB: H.Othello 24+15reb+3ast, Y.Ding 16+3reb+2ast, W.Ke 12+8reb, Y.Yang 11+3reb, T.HanLin 11+4reb, S.Ran 10+7reb+2ast

Shanxi Zh. - Beijing Ducks 114-111

The most exciting game of round 24 in the CBA took place in Taiyuan. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Beijing Ducks (15-8) to ninth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (11-10) 114-111 on Friday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. Beijing Ducks cut a 14-point halftime deficit to three at the end of the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds. The former international guard XiaoMing Lu (176-79) contributed with 19 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) replied with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 11 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) added 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in the effort for Beijing Ducks. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Shanxi Zhongyu maintains ninth position with 11-10 record, which they share with Xinjiang F.T. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the second place with eight games lost. They share the position with DongGuan L.. Shanxi Zhongyu is looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#16) in Tianjin in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Beijing Ducks will play at home against Bayi Fubang (#14) in Ningbo and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Shanxi Zh.: G.Charles 28+14reb+2ast, W.Marcus 19+5ast, L.XiaoMing 19+3reb+5ast, Z.XueWen 14+5reb+1ast, R.Junwei 12+8reb, B.ZhaoBao 8+2reb
Beijing Ducks: M.Randolph 32+11reb, Z.Xiaochuan 22+8reb+1ast, M.Stephon 22+5reb+6ast, X.LiBin 19+11reb+1ast, J.Zhe 10+7reb, Z.YanXi 6+5reb

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		17-0
2. Sparta Praha		13-3
3. Proton Zlin		12-4
4. Opava B		12-4
5. Sokol H.Kralove		10-6
6. Sokol Prazsky		9-7
7. Trutnov		9-7
8. Liberec		9-8
9. Vysehrad		6-10
10. Benesov		6-11
11. Prostejov B		5-12
12. Litomerice		4-12
13. Kladno		1-15
14. Mlada Boleslav		1-15

Former Czech All-Star Dwight Burke Lands on His Feet in Austria - by Surujh Roopnarine
Forward Dwight Burke (202-C/F-86, college: Marquette), who was a Mattoni NBL All-Star during the 2010-11 season, will continue his career in Austria with the Allianz Swans Gmunden. The Swans, 12-3, are in second place in the Austrian A Bundesliga and were second-place finishers last season. Burke, 6-8, played his college ball at Marquette before having his best pro season last year in the Czech Republic. In 28 games with BK Nova Hut Ostrava the 25-year old from Brooklyn, New York averaged 13.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting 43.8% on two-point field goals, 36.1% from three and 70.1% from the free-throw line. BK Nova Hut Ostrava finished in 5th position in the NBL last season with Burke, their best league finish in a decade. Dwight Burke began this season in France's ProB league with Hermine Nantes Atlantique , where in seven games he averaged 2.1 points and 3.4 rebounds while being used sparingly.

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

DENMARK

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Svendborg		16-2
2. Bakken		15-1
3. Naestved		11-7
4. Aalborg		7-9
5. SISU		7-10
6. Horsholm		7-10
7. Horsens IC		6-11
8. Vaerlose		6-11
9. Aabyhoj		6-11
10. Falcon		4-13

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 25.6

1. White, Aalborg	25.6
2. Harris, Horsens IC	23.8
3. Henry, Naestved	22.4
4. Rutherford, SISU	20.1
5. Kingsley, Svendborg	19.4
6. Curry, Aabyhoj	19.4
7. Rasmussen, Vaerl.	18.9
8. Bishop, Aalborg	18.7
9. Bak, Horsholm	16.5
10. Nielsen, Bakken	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

Jordan GLYNN
  Naestved
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Glynn, Naestved	10.9
2. Bishop, Aalborg	10.8
3. St.John, Horsens	10.4
4. Benjamin, Horsholm	9.6
5. Curry, Aabyhoj	9.5
6. Phillips, Aabyhoj	8.6
7. Harris, Horsens IC	8.4
8. Osgood-R., Vaerlose	8.4
9. Colas, Horsholm	8.3
10. Johansen, Naestv.	8.2

Assists Per Game

Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.8

1. White, Aalborg	4.8
2. Henry, Naestved	4.7
3. Sattler, Horsens IC	4.2
4. Colman, Svendborg	4.1
5. Elgmork, Aalborg	4.0
6. McFarlane, Falcon	3.9
7. Curry, Aabyhoj	3.5
8. Plannthin, Svend.	3.2
9. Sakne, Horsens IC	3.2
10. Dennis, SISU	3.1

Steals Per Game

Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Henry, Naestved	4.7
2. Wire, Vaerlose	2.9
3. White, Aalborg	2.9
4. Bishop, Aalborg	2.5
5. Dennis, SISU	2.2
6. Plannthin, Svend.	1.9
7. McFarlane, Falcon	1.9
8. Curry, Aabyhoj	1.8
9. Kristiansen, Aalbo.	1.7
10. Sattler, Horsens	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Harrison, SISU	2.3
2. Phillips, Aabyhoj	2.1
3. Christoffers., Bak.	1.9
4. Colas, Horsholm	1.8
5. Bishop, Aalborg	1.7
6. Curry, Aabyhoj	1.6
7. Marinkovic, Horsho.	1.3
8. Eleraky, Aalborg	1.1
9. Larsen, Vaerlose	1.0
10. Vinson, Svendborg	0.8

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		13-5
2. Canton C.		9-9
3. Springfield A.		9-9
4. Erie Bay H.		8-11
5. Dakota W.		7-9
6. Ft.Wayne MA		7-12
7. Maine RC		6-13
8. Sioux Falls S.		5-14
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		15-6
2. Austin T.		14-3
3. Rio Grande VV		11-9
4. Bakersfield J.		10-8
5. Tulsa 66ers		10-8
6. Reno B.		10-9
7. Idaho S.		7-11
8. Texas L.		7-12

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 25.2

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	25.2
2. Costner, Los A.	24.2
3. Dentmon, Austin T.	23.6
4. Emmett, Reno B.	22.9
5. Millsap, Los A.	22.1
6. Ubiles, Dakota W.	20.1
7. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	19.8
8. Curry, Springfield	18.9
9. Biggs, Canton C.	18.9
10. Lazare, Ft.Wayne.	18.8

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	13.8
2. Famous, Iowa E.	11.0
3. Dawson, Austin T.	10.5
4. Milligan, Canton C.	10.2
5. Daniels, Erie B.	9.6
6. Thomas, Reno B.	9.5
7. Foote, Springfield	9.3
8. Reid, Tulsa 66ers	8.9
9. Andrews, Los A.	8.8
10. Dyer, Texas L.	8.5

Assists Per Game

Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	9.4
2. Tinsley, Los A.	7.6
3. Coleman, Sioux F.	7.0
4. Ewing, Iowa E.	7.0
5. Cooksey, Texas L.	6.6
6. Ahearn, Reno B.	6.5
7. Baker, Dakota W.	6.4
8. Curry, Springfield	6.3
9. Bozeman, Reno B.	6.2
10. Wise, Bakersfield	5.8

Steals Per Game

Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Millsap, Los A.	2.6
2. Tinsley, Los A.	2.4
3. Coleman, Sioux F.	2.2
4. Fortson, Los A.	2.2
5. Curry, Springfield	2.2
6. Pruitt, Sioux F.	2.2
7. Harris, Rio G.	2.1
8. Baker, Dakota W.	2.1
9. Dentmon, Austin T.	2.1
10. Emmett, Reno B.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Foster, Idaho S.	3.1
2. Thomas, Los A.	2.7
3. Saunders, Rio G.	2.3
4. Daniels, Erie B.	2.3
5. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.9
6. Blakely, Iowa E.	1.8
7. Anderson, Dakota	1.6
8. Smith, Rio G.	1.6
9. Tisdale, Maine RC	1.6
10. Dove, Dakota W.	1.6

D-League Showcase: Final day - by Eurobasket Center
Iowa E. - Canton C. 102-97
Hamady N'Diaye is already in the show. Manny Harris is trying to get back to the show. Curtis Stinson has never been to the show. Different players. Similar dreams. Converging storylines. Oh, and some terrific games, too. So went the tale of the 2012 NBA D-League Showcase, which finished up Thursday with the Iowa Energy and the Canton Charge trading baskets late in the fourth quarter, before Stinson hit three clutch free throws to give the Energy a 102-97 victory, its first with Stinson back in the lineup. Michael Efevberha (6'7''-G-84, college: CS Northridge) led the Energy (13-5) with 20 points. Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) had a terrific all-around game for Iowa, finishing with 13 points, five rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Harris struggled with shot for the second game in a row, going 4-for-12 from the field, but ended up with 14 points and eight rebounds for Canton (9-9). Tyrell Biggs scored 14 points and had nine rebounds for Canton, while Keith McLeod finished with 13 and added six assists. Dante Milligan grabbed 12 rebounds and T.J. Campbell tallied 14 points off the bench. N'Diaye, on assignment from the Washington Wizards, had a solid night for Iowa, scoring 10 points and grabbing four rebounds in 20 minutes. A second-round pick in 2010, N'Diaye is a defensive project with upside as a shot blocker. The Charge will head back home to take on the Rio Grande Valley Vipers for 'Cavaliers Night with the Charge' on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Memorial Civic Center. *Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

Dakota W. - Austin T. 94-108
Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington) scored 27 points Thursday to lead the Austin Toros to a 108-94 win over the Dakota Wizards on the final day of the NBA D-League Showcase. Dentmon, the NBA D-League's third-leading scorer (23.4 average), hit 8 of 14 shots from the field and 11 of 12 from the free-throw line. Terrance Woodbury (6'7''-G/F-86, college: Georgia) added 21 points for the Toros, while Lance Thomas and Eric Dawson added 16 points each. Dawson added 10 rebounds. Woodbury was 3-for-3 from the three-point range. Edwin Ubiles, who was a late training camp cut of the Golden State Warriors, led Dakota (7-9) with 22 points. Tommy Smith had 14 points and seven rebounds for Dakota. Mike Anderson added 13 points. The Toros visit Bakersfield tonight, then return to Reno for a Sunday game before returning home to face Canton on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Tulsa 66ers 92-111
The conditions were slick on Route 66. Tulsa went pedal to the metal, scoring 16 fast-break points while building a 26-point lead at the half, then cruising to a 111-92 win over Fort Wayne at the 2012 NBA D-League Showcase. Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) scored 23 points on 11-for-12 shooting, to go with 12 rebounds. Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) added 19 points and seven rebounds for the 66ers, who shot 54 percent for the game. While many players come to the Showcase looking to display a new wrinkle to their game, be it a scoring guard trying to run the point, or a power forward drifting from the low blocks to show off improved range, Lewis and Owens know who they are. The majority of Lewis' shots came from point-blank range, as he established position and converted near the basket. It's no surprise Lewis leads the NBA D-League in rebounding (13.9 rpg) given where he likes to set up shop. Owens, a two-time call-up in 2010-11 with the Spurs and Wizards, is the classic blend player who isn't spectacular at any one thing, but contributes in many areas. He competes on every possession, runs the floor, defends and has a winning attitude. Jerome Dyson added 17 points for the 66ers. Robert Vaden came off the bench to score 13 points on 5-for-9 shooting. Walker Russell, who was in the training camp with the Detroit Pistons, led the Mad Ants with 19 points. His four assists fell well short of the NBA D-League season-high 19 he handed out in his first Showcase game. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Springfield A. - Rio Grande VV 100-99
Preston Knowles' (6'1''-G-89, college: Louisville) 3-pointer from the right corner with 5.6 seconds left capped a wild finish as the Springfield Armor closed out play in the NBA D-League Showcase in Reno with a thrilling 100-99 win over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Thursday night at the Reno Events Center. The Armor controlled the game for the first 46:16, but a 3-pointer by Rio Grande Valley's Kelvin Lewis (6'4''-G-88, college: Houston) (15 points) gave the Vipers their first lead at 97-95 with 1:14 to play. 'Wow, not the way I drew it up, but we will take it,' Armor coach Bob Mackinnon said. Springfield led by as many as 15 points and withstood a couple of earlier Rio Grande Valley charges before the Lewis three. The key play of the game also involved Lewis. With 15.9 left and the Vipers up 99-96, Springfield attempted to inbound the ball in the frontcourt and Lewis was called for a dead ball foul for holding Springfield's Jerry Smith (12 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists). The result was one technical free throw by JamesOn Curry (13 points, 9 assists) to cut the lead to two with Springfield maintaining possession. Ten seconds later the Knowles (14 points) three sealed the deal. 'It was just one of those freak things,' MacKinnon said of the sequence. 'After all we had given away, it just fell back in our laps.' With the win, Springfield climbed back to .500 at 9-9 and sits third in the Eastern Conference. The Armor came out hot from long range as they made seven first-quarter 3-pointers to build a 32-21 lead. 'We shot it well from behind the arc in the quarter,' MacKinnon said. 'And we missed four or five lay-ups and tip-ins that could have put (us) over 40 points in the quarter.' Springfield saw a double-digit third-quarter lead shrink to one when a dunk by Viper Greg Smith (13 points, 10 rebounds) cut the lead to 72-71. The run was primarily led by a parade to the free-throw line, with 13 points from the charity stripe in the period. For the game, Rio Grande Valley held a huge advantage, outscoring Springfield 36-18 at the line. 'The free-throw differential was huge,' MacKinnon agreed. 'We seemed to get a little lazy and started reaching a lot in the third. That got them back in it, but we got a handle back on it in the fourth.' The Armor had six players in double figures, led by 18 points from Damien Johnson. L.D. Williams had 17 and Jeff Foote added 16 and seven rebounds. The Armor returns home to host Maine on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the MassMutual Center. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Ben Uzoh is a newcomer at Rio Grande Valley Vipers - by Eurobasket Center
Rio Grande Valley Vipers added to their roster 24-year old naturalized Nigerian Ben Uzoh (191-PG-93kg-88, college: Tulsa). In his first game he scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Springfield A. 99-100. Uzoh played most recently at New Jersey Nets (NBA). He played also pro basketball in Italy and Russia. Uzoh graduated The University of Tulsa in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Hawks center Horford to miss 3-4 months with injury - by Eurobasket News
Atlanta Hawks All-Star center Alfred Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) will miss three-to-four months with a torn pectoral muscle in his left shoulder, the National Basketball Association (NBA) team said on Thursday.

Horford, Atlanta's third-leading scorer, suffered the injury in Wednesday's 96-84 road loss to the Indiana Pacers and the Hawks said he will seek a second opinion before deciding whether to undergo surgery.

'We are very disappointed for Al and our team and we wish him the best as he moves forward in the rehabilitation process,' Hawks General Manager Rick Sund said in a statement.

The 25-year-old center, taken by Atlanta with the third overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft, has averaged 12.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 blocks so far this season.

Wednesday's loss dropped the Hawks to 7-4, one game behind Southeast division-leading Miami Heat.

Courtesy of http://ca.reuters.com

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

ESTONIA

THOUGHTS FROM THE SIDELINE - by Ozell Wells
As we approach the end of 2011 and the dawn of a new year, much attention has been drawn to the plight of the youth player in Estonia.
Having spoken with quite a few of the youth coaches in the area and the players in particular as well, a few things are making themselves clear.
Sooner rather than later, the youth of the country will have to be trusted to carry the name and reputation of the whole of the people in the basketball world.
More often than not, the youth sections tend to be the best barometer of the fortunes and the fate of the level of basketball in a country. Notwithstanding the fantastic undefeated summer by the Estonian U20 this year, led by Martin Dorbek, Rain Vedeman, Janar Soo and other led by the coaching of Andres Sober.
The younger sections, the most formative of years in the development periods of an athlete are those that need be focused on. The U16's and younger need the intense coaching and fundamental training that seemingly have been neglected. I can remember just a few short time ago that a prominent coach or two had been found guilty of leading youth practices while intoxicated and in a drunken state. Such behavior is a black mark. The game is something to be revered and it deserves a dedication to lift up the morale of a community.
There also seems to have been a fixation on money and/or sponsorship money ad no longer on development. To quote 3 members of the junior national basketball programs:
'estonian teams want only to hold sponsors
they dont think about young guys
before every game our GM says that we have to play very good tonight because 2 sponsors is watching tonight game:D
and then when i sit 38 minutes on bench then i lost my confidence and we not ready for this anymore'
Turning our attention to the younger sections, the players of this years U16, Kris Korvits and Sten Olmre to name a few, must be given dedicated individuals willing to take the time needed to be able to represent their country on an international stage. It has to become a year-round task, and not just a 2 month trip to the Euro's and back to Tallinn.
I remember 2006, in Spain at the U16 FIBA EUROPE FINAL between Spain & Russia, watching Ricky Rubio pour in 51 points,24 rebounds,12 assists and grab 7 steals while leading Spain to a double overtime victory over Russia 112-106. The simple fact that the feat was possible by a 15 year old boy, spoke more to me about the dedication and effort put into the youth section of the Spanish, than anything else. The dedication and focus put into the youth in the last 10+ years are showing results around the world, as Spain holds the Gold medal in the European Championships, finished with the Silver at the last Olympic Games, and are boasting medal finish after medal finish in the junior events as well.
The focus has to become on the entire juvenile population of the country in order to progress the level of sport in the years to come.
Now living in a 'must have it now' reality of microwave ovens, instant coffee, stop n go hot foods at grocery stores and gas stations; WHO IS WILLING TO DEVOTE THE TIME,ENERGY AND GIVE EFFORT TO BUILDING A NEW GENERATION. WHO IS WILLING TO HAVE THEM SHUT OFF THE GAME CUBE, XBOX AND PLAYSTATION?
As we enter a new era, there has to become a new breed of role models for the players of the future. The current crop of NBA & Euroleague players seem to be falling down on the job. ie NBA player Charlie Bell appearing at a drunk driving court case DRUNK, or the point guard in Italy, playing at Veroli who departed to go home to the USA but did not inform his team where he was going.
I was told quite some time ago my my late grandfather, who passed at 98 years of age, that 'It is high time to awake from sleep.' LET's FOCUS ON DOING THINGS FOR THE FUTURE.

'In a world of UNIVERSAL deceit, telling the TRUTH is a revolutionary act!' -George Orwell

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

EUROCUP

Goss to return Italy? - by Philip Mulryne
According to sportando.net, American player of Asvel Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel) wanted to leave for his old team Cimberio Varese but both parties did not come to an agreement. Phil Goss started the season very well at Asvel, however after Tony Parker left for NBA, his performances did not improve. The rise of young guards as Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) and Paul Lacombe (194-G-90, agency: Beo Basket) made him take less minutes. That can be a possible reason for his request.

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

EUROLEAGUE

FINLAND

Martin Zeno claims Finnish Korisliiga weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Martin Zeno (196-G-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Nilan Bisons and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 26-year old guard had the game-high 25 points adding eight rebounds and four assists for Nilan Bisons in his team's victory, helping them to beat Pyrinto (#5, 13-10) 82-72. 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 15-5 record. In the team's last game Zeno had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Nilan Bisons' top player in his first season with the team. Texas Tech University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Zeno is in league's top in points (2nd best: 21.8ppg), rebounds (6th best: 8.3rpg) and averages solid 51.4% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old American guard Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports) of Namika Lahti. Brooks impressed basketball fans with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course he lead Namika Lahti to another comfortable win 95-79 over slightly higher-ranked Korihait (#10, 8-15) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Namika Lahti is still at the dead bottom 11th position. 18 lost games are too many comparing to just six victories Namika Lahti managed to get this year. Brooks is a newcomer at Namika Lahti and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.4ppg (#7). He also registered 5.8 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Kelly Beidler (199-F-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) of Kauhajoki (#3). Beidler scored 21 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Kauhajoki, leading his team to a 79-76 win against the lower-ranked KTP (#9, 9-15). Kauhajoki needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 8 lost games. Beidler has a great season in Finland. After 23 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.9ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 9.1rpg (4th best). He also has 2.2spg, 2.0bpg and FGP: 59.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tim Blue (205-F-84) of KTP - 22 points and 4 rebounds
5. Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86) of Salon Vilpas - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists
6. John Fields (205-F-88) of Salon Vilpas - 13 points and 17 rebounds
7. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84) of Kataja - 21 points and 5 rebounds
8. Tyler Tiedeman (201-F-85) of LrNMKY - 22 points and 7 rebounds
9. Allen Durham (198-F-88) of Salon Vilpas - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Anthony Brown (203-F-86) of Kouvot - 18 points and 7 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)

KORISLIIGA: Tim Blue scored 41 points - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 24: When KTP (Kotka) crushed YMCA Lahti tonight 105-68 (46-32) the hero and MVP of the game was Tim Blue (205-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.). Blue scored 41 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the hosts KTP in 36 minutes. Blue made 23 out of his 28 shots (1 - 8/9, 2 - 12/15, 3 - 3/4). Tony Crocker (201-G/F-87, college: Oklahoma) added a double-double 21pts/10rbs. Bojan Sarcevic (190-G-88, agency: The House of Baller!Stars) gave 11 assists.
In Helsinki Torpan Pojat defeated Pyrinto (Tampere) 86-78 (44-46). ToPo had six players in double (11-18 p) digits. Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) netted 18 and Hanno Mottola (209-F/C-76, college: Utah) 16 points. Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) had a double-double 13pts/10rbs. Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, college: Purdue) led Pyrinto with 28 pts. Damon Williams (201-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) scored 26 pts, 15 pts already during the opening quarter.
KTP - YMCA Lahti 105-68 (46-32). (Tim Blue 41/9, Tony Crocker 21/10, Juho Lehtoranta 16 - Sami Pekkola 20, Malik Moore 16, Ryan Brooks 8. A: 1099).
ToPo - Pyrinto 86-78 (44-46). (Chase Griffin 18, Hanno Mottola 16, Kimmo Muurinen 13/10 - Kenneth Lowe 28, Damon Williams 26, Antwine Williams 13. A: 1002).

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		19-4
2. Nilan Bisons		15-5
3. Kauhajoki		15-8
4. ToPo		13-10
5. Pyrinto		13-10
6. LrNMKY		9-13
7. Kouvot		9-13
8. Salon Vilpas		9-14
9. KTP		9-15
10. Korihait		8-15
11. Namika Lahti		6-18

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.5

1. Blue, KTP	22.5
2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	21.8
3. Crocker, KTP	20.0
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.9
5. Holloway, Salon V.	19.7
6. Newson, Kataja	18.6
7. Brooks, Namika L.	18.4
8. Hamm, LrNM.	17.7
9. Griffin, ToPo	17.6
10. Tiedeman, LrNM.	17.5

Rebounds Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 14.3

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	14.3
2. Blue, KTP	10.8
3. Newson, Kataja	9.2
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.1
5. Hairston, Salon V.	8.7
6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.3
7. Williams, Pyrinto	8.3
8. McDade, Nilan B.	8.2
9. Brown, Kouvot	7.8
10. Nikkila, Pyrinto	7.6

Assists Per Game

Jeb IVEY
  Nilan Bisons
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	5.2
2. Williams, Pyrinto	4.4
3. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.3
4. Virtanen, Kataja	4.2
5. Sarcevic, KTP	4.2
6. Haynes, LrNM.	4.0
7. Moore, Namika L.	3.9
8. Walker, Kataja	3.8
9. Holloway, Salon V.	3.2
10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.2

Steals Per Game

Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Sten, Kataja	2.5
2. Williams, Pyrinto	2.3
3. Moore, Korihait	2.3
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.2
5. Moore, Namika L.	1.9
6. Newson, Kataja	1.9
7. Haynes, LrNM.	1.7
8. Williams, Pyrinto	1.7
9. Sarcevic, KTP	1.6
10. Holloway, Salon V.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.3
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.0
3. Hairston, Salon V.	1.3
4. Blue, KTP	1.2
5. Lehtoranta, Kataja	1.1
6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	0.9
7. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.9
8. McDade, Nilan B.	0.8
9. Price, Kataja	0.7
10. Bell, KTP	0.7

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

FRANCE

Carlos Singer who is he................. - by Corey Belser
Back at this EuroBasket blog after a long great Christmas and New Years break! Since being back it's been nothing but business as usual, we one our first game of 2012 in OT. As I watched from the bench after picking up my 5th foul early in the 4th. Tomorrow we play another difficult match against a good friend of mine from LA Jahsha Bluntt (198-G-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Delaware St.) he's leading the league in scoring right now and they have a solid team. I am hoping we can get the win and continue our stay on top of the league with a 2 game advantage, won't be easy but I love a challange!!

I want talk about guys who DESERVE a shot overseas! Carlos Singer who is he? 6'1' 175lbs with a 40 inch vert. deadly on from 3! Guy deserves a shot, but you don't have to take my word for it. Ask anybody that has seen him over the summer at the Jamal Crawford (196-G-80, college: Michigan) Summer League. His nickname should probably be buckets, competing against the likes of NBA players and pros. In a summer league where Nate Robinson (175-PG-84, college: Washington), Jamal Crawford, Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Washington), Alvin Snow (188-G-81, college: E.Washington), Micah Downs (203-G-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) myself and many others compete in. Carlos was 1st team all Jamal Crawford summer league and MVP of the Championship game. Carlos Singer deserves a shot, if I am the GM of a team in Europe and the team is struggling what would I have to lose? If anyone is interested in carlos singer ( lososway.cs@gmail.com).

Here's a summer league game where he drop 32pts 11ast 5 reb http://blip.tv/carlossinger01/jamal-crawford-pro-am-7-9-2011-mavs-vs-sonics-5483023 vs University of Washington phenom Tony Wroten (195-G-93) and Gonzaga graduate and pro Micah Downs. (Carlos is in the black jersey wearing #1)

Make sure you check out www.afcathletes.org, give the kids a like on www.facebook.com/afcathletes and follow us on that twitter https://twitter.com/#!/AFCAthletes

Have a Happy 2012 New Year!

Corey Belser (200-F-82, college: San Diego)

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Gravelines		12-2
2. Chalon		11-2
3. Nancy		11-3
4. Le Mans		10-3
5. Paris-Levallois		9-4
6. Orleans		8-5
7. Roanne		6-7
8. ASVEL		6-7
9. Dijon		6-7
10. Strasbourg		5-8
11. Cholet		5-8
12. Le Havre		4-9
13. Nanterre		4-9
14. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		4-9
15. Hyeres-Toulon		2-11
16. Poitiers		2-11

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Boulazac		12-3
2. Limoges		12-4
3. Chalons-Reims		11-5
4. Fos Ouest		10-5
5. Maurienne		10-6
6. Bordeaux		9-6
7. St Vallier		9-6
8. Boulogne		9-7
9. Lille		8-8
10. Nantes		7-8
11. Bourg		7-8
12. Denain		7-9
13. Le Portel		7-9
14. Evreux		7-9
15. Rouen		5-11
16. Antibes		5-11
17. Quimper		4-11
18. Vichy		1-14
19. St Etienne		0-0

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		9-7
11. Chartres		8-7
12. Lievin		8-8
13. Angers BC 49		7-9
14. Rueil		5-10
15. Clermont		5-11
16. Le Puy		3-12
17. CFBB		1-14
18. Montbrison		1-14

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 23.2

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	23.2
2. Chatfield, Paris-.	21.5
3. Rochestie, Le Mans	20.5
4. Parker, AS.	20.3
5. Cox, Le Havre	18.2
6. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	17.5
7. Nelson, Cholet	17.3
8. Morlende, Hyeres-T.	17.1
9. Batum, Nancy	17.1
10. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	8.4
2. Akingbala, Nancy	8.1
3. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.0
4. Aminu, Chalon	7.4
5. Allen, Strasbourg	7.2
6. Falker, Cholet	6.8
7. Armstrong, AS.	6.8
8. Sommerville, Le Ma.	6.8
9. Greer, Strasbourg	6.8
10. Nsonwu-Amadi, Ro.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	9.5
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.8
3. Parker, AS.	6.3
4. Wise, Le Havre	6.2
5. Linehan, Nancy	5.8
6. Pellin, Orleans	5.5
7. Barrett, Roanne	5.2
8. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.9
9. Dixon, Dijon	4.8
10. Albicy, Gravelines	4.6

Steals Per Game

Mykal RILEY
  Nanterre
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Riley, Nanterre	2.2
2. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	2.1
3. Batum, Nancy	2.1
4. Acker, Le Mans	2.1
5. Albicy, Gravelines	2.1
6. Melody, Dijon	2.0
7. Linehan, Nancy	2.0
8. Wise, Le Havre	2.0
9. Krupalija, Hyeres.	1.8
10. Sangare, Orleans	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Ronny TURIAF
  AS.
  (208-C/F-83)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Turiaf, AS.	1.8
2. Gobert, Cholet	1.3
3. Akingbala, Nancy	1.2
4. Falker, Cholet	1.2
5. Issa, Gravelines	1.1
6. Batum, Nancy	1.1
7. Williams, Paris-.	1.1
8. Nichols, Cholet	1.0
9. Jackson, Roanne	1.0
10. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	0.8

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

David DENAVE
  St Vallier
  (195-SG-85)
  Avg: 18.9

1. Denave, St Vallier	18.9
2. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
3. McCray, Boulogne	18.3
4. Davis, Le Portel	18.1
5. Paelay, Quimper	17.9
6. Siggers, Rouen	16.8
7. Gay, Fos Ouest	16.3
8. Wood, Evreux	16.3
9. Barro, Bourg	15.9
10. Milbourne, Limoges	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Evreux
  (200-C/F-85)
  Avg: 11.7

1. Wood, Evreux	11.7
2. Massie, Limoges	11.3
3. Rossiter, Denain	9.7
4. Monroe, Boulazac	9.5
5. Osby, Maurienne	9.5
6. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
7. Barro, Bourg	9.0
8. Allen, Antibes	8.8
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.6
10. Prowell, St Valli.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.5
2. Copeland, Bourg	5.8
3. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.7
4. Denave, St Vallier	5.5
5. Rowland, Evreux	5.3
6. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.2
7. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.1
8. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.0
9. Sauret, Lille	4.9
10. Mouillard, Quimper	4.8

Steals Per Game

Armand CHARLES
  Nantes
  (193-SF-83)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Charles, Nantes	2.7
2. McCray, Boulogne	2.6
3. Paelay, Quimper	2.5
4. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.3
5. Eito, Vichy	2.1
6. James, Denain	2.1
7. Denave, St Vallier	2.0
8. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.0
9. Flowers, Vichy	2.0
10. Prowell, St Valli.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
2. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
3. Osby, Maurienne	1.3
4. Daniels, Chalons-.	1.0
5. Prowell, St Vallier	1.0
6. Barro, Bourg	0.9
7. Massie, Limoges	0.9
8. Badiane, Nantes	0.9
9. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
10. James, Denain	0.9

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

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

1. Bluntt, Orchy	18.5
2. Pridotkas, Brest	17.8
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. Merie, Chartres	16.0
10. Staelens, Blois	15.9

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	9.4
5. Mendy, Lievin	8.6
6. Pridotkas, Brest	8.6
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: 6.7

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.7
2. Calvez, Charleville	5.6
3. Brochard, Blois	5.3
4. Barbry, Orchy	4.7
5. Daube, Le Puy	4.7
6. Ball, St Quentin	4.7
7. Berquier, Chartres	4.4
8. Dessart, Lievin	4.2
9. Godin, Cognac	4.2
10. Thomas, Roche	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

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

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	1.2
7. Tornato, Blois	1.1
8. Mendy, Lievin	0.9
9. Jaiteh, CFBB	0.9
10. Borval, Le Puy	0.9

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

GERMANY

Can The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg Seek Revenge On The Fraport Skyliners With No Justin Gray? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg have only been back in the Beko BBL four months after having been absent from the Beko BBL for six years, but right at the start of the season, their buzzer beater loss to the Fraport Skyliners had much discussion matter. On October 12th, the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg lost a bitter game on a last second shot by Justin Gray. Soon after the loss, Wurzburg protested the Frankfurt win and appealed to the Beko BBL for a rematch, because they claimed that German national player Johannes Herber had hit a three pointer after the referee had blown the whistle which led to a John Patrick technical foul and seven unanswered Skyliner points. However the Beko BBL didnt grant the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg a rematch and thus the game remained a heartbreaking loss for the Bavarian team. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg will go into the return game at home with a lot of revenge and be as focused to win as comedian Bill Maher was at poking fun at Tim Tebow using Satin and Hitler, Usher firing away at at his ex wife saying dont take away my kids or world class sprinter Usain Bolt getting every last ounce in the booze bong on vacation in Jamaica. New York native Jason Boone remembers the buzzer beater loss, past buzzer beaters and revenge on Frankfurt. You have to have a short memory after the Frankfurt loss. We couldnt worry about a loss like that because something like that can affect your overall play. The loss was tough, but we had to focus on the next game immediately. I have been on the losing end of some buzzer beaters in college and also with the one where Bremerhaven eliminated us, but I also have been part of two good buzzer beater wins. It is all part of the game. At this point of the season, we know that we can play with the best teams in the BBL as well as loose to the weaker teams if we dont come to play. We definitely want to play well against Frankfurt, but more because we want to play good basketball then opposed to having revenge, stressed Jason Boone. Teammate Ricky Harris also has the buzzer beater still on his mind. I remember that buzzer beater as if it was yesterday. We fought so hard at coming back from being down. Guys stepped up big and made plays and then to see a 35 footer go down was a heart breaker, but that was a great shot by Justin Gray. As soon as the game day comes, that buzzer beater will pop into our heads again. That was the first buzzer beater that I ever experienced. I see it all the time in the NBA and it excites me. But being on the loosing end of a buzzer beater isnt fun, warned Ricky Harris (188-G-87, college: Massachusetts)

Basketball in Wurzburg was more or less born in 1997 as the club came into the beko BBL mostly due to a 19 year old tall blond talent named Dirk Nowitzki. The team stayed in the top German league until 2005 as it developed future German national players with Robert Garrett, Demond Greene and Marvin Willoughby. The team then wasnt able to successfully stay in the league and also had a dark ominous cloud of bankruptcy hovering over the team. However the club was able to escape any financial problems and started new in the second Bundesliga as Mainfranken Basket. The club wanted to rely on German players, but this experiment failed as they won only one game and departed the second league. The team then rechanged their name to the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and started new again in the Regionaliga and the club steadily started their rise back to the Beko BBL first reaching the PRO B in the 2008-2009 season winning all 24 games in the Regionaliga. In 2009-2010, the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg reached third place in the PRO B and had some fortune as the Hertener were financially unable to play in the PRO A, so the Wurzburg team was able to move up to the PRO A after all. Their dramatic rise continued in the PRO A as they finished the season in second place with a record of 21-7 and reaching the Beko BBL again after 6 years of being away.
The first order of business in Wurzburg this season was finding a head coach and the team did that reeling in American John Patrick early in the summer. Patrick started to quickly build his new team, but as the new season approached his roster looked very much different than two months earlier as some players that had been signed had to go. Americans Patrick Flomo (Gloria Giants), Tim Burnette (Furstenfeld, Austria), Achmadschah Zazai (Giessen 46ers) and American Mike Tisdale had to pack their bags early and in the mean time, the American hauled in new players with Chris Kramer and Robert Tomaszek. The way Patrick functions may not always be favorable to a player, but in the long run, he has had success with his style of players and should know best. Coach has his way and his ways seem to be successful and if a player doesnt fit into what he is trying to accomplish why should he keep him. It is his team and his system and he knows what is best for his team, warned John Bynum. Patrick did a smooth and intelligent act bringing in three ex Goettingen players with Jason Boone, Ben Jacobson and John Little who won the Eurochallenge in 2010 and have much experience that will help the younger players in Wurzburg. Anytime you have a familiar face in your corner it is always a good thing because you know things about the guys already instead of bringing in guys that you may not know about besides their stats. Character takes you a long way and if you already know what your getting then it is an advantage, warned John Bynum. The best part about being reunited with these guys is the fact that we've become accustomed to a certain level of success. And any time one of us, or our teammates is not 100% focused on pursuing that level, we are there to put each other in check. We missed a little of that last season in Gottingen but I'm confident Ben Jacobson will bring that back with him. He brings the best out of John and I, added Jason Boone. Patrick also brought in talented Americans Gilbert Brown (was waived after 8 games, 4,3ppg and 1,8rpg) and Rickey Harris and also wants to show his love for German youth development by bringing in Oliver Clay and Alex King who isnt 18 anymore, but is a player who fills out his role well. Ivan Elliot might be one of the big winners in the roster, because last season he was in the Beko BBL with Bremerhaven got cut and went to the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg helping the team reach the PRO A. Patrick decided to keep the American and already has become an important force this season. The team recently also added Chester Frazier who is no unknown player to the Beko BBL.

The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg got off to a superb start of 2-0 beating an always tough defensive minded TBB Trier and crushing the LTi Giessen 46ers 85-60 in the Osthalle. In the 73-67 win against TBB Trier, they showed their defensive qualities forcing TBB Trier to 16 turnovers and In Giessen held a new formed 46er team to 60 points holding them to 38% from the field and 29% from the parking lot while forcing 21 turnovers. American Rickey Harris has quietly been the go to guy amassing 43 points total in the first two games. John Patrick had been known in his years in Goettingen to play a special brand of basketball called 40 minutes of hell where his team plays pressure pressure and pressure bringing the opponent often to the brink of despair. Last season, the 40 minutes of hell seemed to have dipped to 20-25 minutes of hell. If Patrick will have this pressure play in Wurzburg like he had in Goettingen is hard to say, but his pressure style will somehow always be in his blood. I think the pressure was more in Gottingen but dont let that comment think that you dont see a lot of pressure. They disrupt your flow of the game and often you have to rush your sets because you get the ball back to the point guard with around 17-18 seconds and thats what you have to work with your offense, warned John Bynum. Can John Patrick make the s.Oliver Baskets a steady playoff team the way he did with BG Goettingen? Wurzburg can be a playoff team if they protect their home court and get some away teams. Their type of play differs from most teams in the league and teams struggle playing against them, added John Bynum. After the loss to the Fraport Skyliners, Wurzburg had a very strong stretch having a 5-2 record. They had big home wins against ratiopharm Ulm and the Telekom Baskets Bonn and showed that they were nothing like a team that might have problems staying in the Beko BBL for a second season. Then came a dry spell as they lost three games in a row including their only home loss of the season against Bamberg a tough 73-70 road loss in Hagen. Since then the team has won three of their last four games including huge home wins against FC Bayern Munich and Alba Berlin. Wurzburg continues to a very strong home team having a 8-1 record in their living room and it seems like Patrick has brought some of that magic invincible aura from the Lokhalle to the s.Oliver arena. Wurzburg also lets up a league best lowest 67 points per game.

s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg signed Jason Boone who is a 26 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York who played his four seasons with Goettingen. Four years ago, he made the jump from the Regionalliga to the BBL, which is similar as if a professional baseball player jumped from A ball to MLB. Last season for BG Goettingen, he played 37 games: 8.5ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 34.9%; EuroCup: 14 games: 9.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.8%, FT: 36.0% . Jason Boone is a strong athlete who likes to finish around the rim and is not a shooter at all. One should give him the jump shot and dont let him penetrate. He is a strong offensive rebounder and goes to the boards each time. He isnt a good free throw shooter and dont give him any easy layups. One should attack him on defense and despite his athletic body, doesnt move his feet so well and he is foul prone, Frankfurt still will have to keep an eye on him in the paint, added 2009 Beko BBL top scorer Omari Westley. Boone is probably one of the strongest low post players in the BBL. He can move anybody with his strength down low, added Ricky Hickman who is playing his second season in Italy. I always want to improve my game, and I feel like coming into this season fully healthy will help me establish myself as a top center in this league. In retrospect I think, on a personal level, last season was a 'down' year for me, but it taught me a lot and I'll be entering this season with a focus that I have not yet possessed, commented Jason Boone. The team also brought in another familiar face from the Beko BBL with Ben Jacobson. Jacobson is a 28 year old 188cm guard that is a big Time Point Guard, very good defender and a great scorer who can create his own shot. Before coming to BG Goettingen in 2007, he played at Northern Iowa with teammate John Little and in other German places like Erdgas Ehingen and the Mitteldeutscher BC. His most successful season was 2009-2010 where he helped BG Goettingen win the Eurochallenge playing Big Time Point Guard, very good defender and a great scorer who can create his own shot. Last season he played for Ikaros Kallitheas (Greece-A1, starting five), only pre-season, in Dec.'10 moved to Boulazac Basket Dordogne (France-ProB, starting five): 19 games: 12.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 34.9%.

The third member to arrive from BG Goettingen is John Little who is a 27 year old 180cm guard from Peoria, Illinois. He played four seasons with BG Goettingen. He played at Northern Iowa from 2002-2006. In 2007-2008, he wanted to play for the Peoria Kings of the ABA league, but the team folded, so he returned to Northern Iowa and finished the season as assistant coach. Last season, he played EuroCup: 9 games: 6.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 80.0%; German League: 33 games: 6.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 21.0%, FT: 75.0% Little is their energy guy. He brings a lot of energy and athletic ability from the bench. He doesnt have much of a shot and likes to drive to the hoop and finish at the rim. He is a good rebounder for his size. He is possibly the best defender on the team. He has long arms and plays the passing lanes well and is their best on ball defender, stressed Omari Westley. He is probably one of the scrappiest players in the league and always plays hard and gives 100% every minute on the court, added Ricky Hickman. The team kept two players from the 2011 second placed PRO A team and one is Ivan Elliot. Elliot is a 24 year old 203cm power forward/center from San Francisco, California. He is a very versatile on the offensive end, able to shoot the 3-pointer with confidence, slash to the basket, and play underneath the basket with his physical strength and overall skills, is the ultimate team player who always gives everything he has in every practice and game, highly motivated and willing to do the extra work to become the best player. He has experience having played for SK Valmiera (Latvia) as a rookie and two years ago for MBC. Last season for the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, he played 30 games: 10.6ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 77.8%. The team recently brought in a fourth ex member of BG Goettingen with Chester Frazier who is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Baltimore, Maryland. He played at Illinois (NCAA) from 2005-2009 an din his senior year played 31 games: 5.7ppg, 4.8rpg, AssistsConf-1 (5.3apg), StealsConf-7 (1.4spg), FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 66.7%: Finished career ranked sixth on the Illinois career assists list with 484. In 2009-2010, he helped BG Goettingen win the Eurochallenge playing EuroChallenge: 14 games: 3.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg; German League: 31 games: 5.9ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 53.3%. Last season, he went back to Illinois to finish his degree and help out with coaching.He isnt only a strong defender, but is a good offensive player. He guards Ben Jacobson and Chris Kramer each day and makes them better. He has been a great help for our team in terms of toughness and he is just a great guy to have around, stressed Jason Boone

Ricky Harris is playing his first season in the Beko BBL. He is a 24 year old 188cm guard from Baltimore, Maryland. He played at Massachusetts (NCAA) from 2006-2010. In his senior year, he played 31 games: 19.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 72.9%. Last season as a rookie, he saw much of the world playing for BC Siauliai (Lithuania-LKL): Lithuanian League: 8 games: 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 61.5%; EuroCup: 5 games: 12.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.6%; Baltic League: 14 games: 10.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 66.2%, in Jan.'11 moved to Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (Ukraine-Superleague): 29 games: 9.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 67.4%, then moved to B-Meg Llamados (Philippines-PBA). Recently with the hire and fire tactic of John Patrick, the team hauled in Robert Tomaszek who is a 30 year old 204cm forward Polish-German. He is an aggressive but an average defender, he is mostly an offensive player, with a nice middle distance shooting touch, and good low post offensive skills; is also a good passer. He also has much experience having enjoyed the Colorado countryside at Aspen high school and attending Texas Tech playing with Ronald Ross and for legendary coach Bobby Knight. He has experience having played in Italy, Czech Republic and in the Ukraine. He won the Czech championship in 2009 with CEZ Basketball Nymburk. Last season, he played with ex Skyliner Konrad Wysocki for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-PLK, starting five): 40 games: 7.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.8%, FT: 50.4%. The club recently also brought in 23 year old 191cm Chris Kramer from Huntington, Indiana. Kramer had a solid career at Purdue and in his senior year played 35 games: 6.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 74.7%. At Purdue, he won the Big ten tournament in 2009 and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2010. He also was the All-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2010. Last season as a professional rookie, he played for Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League, starting five): 41 games: 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 81.9%. In June 2011, he signed at Mets de Guaynabo (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five): 12 games: 8.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 69.8%.

The s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg also has its share of German players including Alex King who moves to his third Beko BBL team. King is a 26 year old 200cm forward from Munich, Germany. King started his basketball career in Frankfurt playing for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners from 2002-2008. In that span he won the German league title in 2004 and was a finalist in 2005 and played a total of 129 BBL games for Frankfurt. He played for the Telekom Baskets Bonn from 2008-20011 playing a total of 101 Beko BBl games. Last season for Bonn he played EuroChallenge: 6 games: 2.5ppg, 4.0rpg; German League: 31 games: 4.9ppg, 2.3rpg. The team also brought in young German Oliver Clay who is a 24 year old 205cm power forward/center from Berlin. He started his basketball career in 2006 for TUS Lichterfelde Berlin (2.Bundesliga): 25 games: 3.2ppg, 2.7rpg. He then played for Alba Berlin playing mostly for the Regionaliga team where he German Regionalliga (North Group) Champion in 2010. Last season, he played for TBB Trier (1.Bundesliga): 33 games: 2.5ppg, 1.9rpg. Christoph Henneberger also stayed with the team. Henneberger is a 27 year old 188cm guard who has seen the ups and downs of Wurzburg basketball since 2003. Last season, he played 30 games: 4.6ppg. The team also has young talented Maximilian Klebber on the roster who is a 19 year old 196cm forward. He started his basketball career in 2008 with SCH Wuerzburg Baskets (Regionalliga). Last season he played 2 games for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg averaging 2.5ppg, and also played at TG 48 Wuerzburg (Regionalliga.

The s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg not only want to keep their strong home record intact, but also want revenge on the buzzer beater loss. In that loss, ex Fraport Skyliner Jon Leuer had 17 points, five rebounds, two steals and two blocks, but now is playing in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and is nothing but a memory. But Frankfurt seem to have done ok with him as well as without Gray as the team has a 5-2 record since the beginning of December 2011. Leuer was a great player and it definitely doesnt help them that he is no longer there, but they have many capable players like Davidson who was hurt when we played them and Jacob Burtschi who was great for Phoenix Hagen last year, stressed Jason Boone. Both teams have played superb defense recently and this could be more of a defensive game than offensive. Frankfurt struggled a bit at the start, but they have a great group of guys that compete hard each night and are well coached. We have to play hard for 40 minutes and key will be defense playing physical and rebounding well. We pride ourselves on defense. Even though the game will be in Wurzburg, it will be a hard fought game, stressed Ricky Harris The Fraport Skyliners have been unstoppable in the last 5 weeks on the road and will be looking for their fifth win in a row. We have to defend like against the Artland Dragons and slow down the tempo and rebound well, stressed Skyliner forward Jacob Burtschi. Frankfurt has to stay focused and match the intensity of Wurzburg. If they control the tempo and play as a team then they will always have a shot to beat anyone, stated ex SIG Strassburg American Jeff Greer. Despite the buzzer beater loss, the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg enter the game with a lot of confidence. We need to play our game, limit turnovers and rebound the ball. If we do that then there isnt a team that we cant beat. We are very confident at home and will be ready for the game, stressed Jason Boone. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg host the Fraport Skyliners January 15th at 17:00.

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

GREECE

Acie Law joins Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos bolstered their backcourt. They landed Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M). The guard signed a contract till the end of the season. The guard started the season in Partizan Belgrade. He tallied 12.7 points, 3.4 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game in Euroleague. In Adriatic League the guard came up with 9.2 points, 2.5 assists and 1.9 rebounds per appearance. Acie Law parted ways with the Serbian team earlier this month. Acie Law played in the NBA since 2007. He graduated from Texas A&M. The guard won NCAA D1 Naismith Trophy in 2007.

Ilysiakos announced Stevanov and Cohadarevic - by Giorgos Diploidis
Ilysiakos Athens added two more players in their squad today (13/01). Riste Stefanov (198-G-81, agency: Interperformances) and Darko Cohadarevic (206-F-86, college: Texas Tech). Stevanov was the guard that Kostas Flevarakis was looking and Cohadarevic will replace Miroslav Todic. The two players may take time in the game of Ilysiakos against Kavala. The two players have as a comon that they have played in the past in the same Greek team, AEK.

Stevanov the period 2009-10 and Cohadarevic last year. Cohadarevic started the season in Zlatorog Lasko while Stevanov was in KK MZT Skopje Aerodrom.

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

GUYANA

Travis George joins Fuerza Regia Monterrey - by Eurobasket Center
Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) agreed terms with 27-year old Guyanese-Guyanese Travis George (206-PF-104kg-85). In his first game he scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. However his new team lost to Huracanes 70-72. George played most recently at Austin Toros (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 2 games for Austin T. this season he averaged 4.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0spg and 1.0bpg.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

HOLLAND

Best players of Dutch Eredivisie round 18 - by Eurobasket News
Former international power forward Thomas Koenis (207-F/C-89, agency: Court Side) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Groningen and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
The 22-year old power forward had a double-double of 17 points and ten rebounds, while his team beat Zwolle (#6, 8-8) 77-68. It allowed Groningen to jump to the first place in the Dutch Eredivisie. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Groningen has a very solid 11-4 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. It was one of impressive evenings for Koenis as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Thomas Koenis averages this season 5.6ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 23-year old American guard Frank Turner (178-G-88, agency: Court Side) of second-ranked Den Bosch. Turner impressed basketball fans with 22 points, 2 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as Den Bosch was edged by slightly lower-ranked Nijmegen (#4, 8-6) 84-82. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Den Bosch still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 11-4 record is not bad at all. Turner is well-known by Den Bosch fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was international center Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side) of Weert (#8). van Kempen showcased his all-around game by recording 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Weert, leading his team to a 76-64 win against the higher-ranked Leeuwarden (#5, 8-7). Weert can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 2-13 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for van Kempen he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. van Kempen has individually a great season in Holland. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.6rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Yamene Coleman (206-C-86) of Weert - 12 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Rahmon Fletcher (177-PG-88) of Weert - 18 points and 5 assists
6. Bryan Defares (192-PG-81) of Groningen - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Cameron Wells (185-G-88) of Zwolle - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Stefan Wessels (203-F-84) of Den Bosch - 14 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Kareem Maddox (203-F-89) of Zwolle - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Lance Jeter (190-G) of Leeuwarden - 20 points, 6 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)

Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Standings

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

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

Lance JETER
  Leeuwarden
  (190-G-)
  Avg: 18.3

1. Jeter, Leeuwarden	18.3
2. Sally, Rotterdam	17.9
3. Anderson, Weert	17.2
4. Humphrey, Nijmegen	16.5
5. Acker, Nijmegen	15.9
6. Hargrove, Nijmegen	15.1
7. Boxley, Leiden	14.8
8. Wesby, Groningen	14.5
9. Sanchez, Leeuw.	14.4
10. Bell, Groningen	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Coleman, Weert	8.8
2. Sanchez, Leeuw.	8.6
3. Bekkering, Nijme.	7.6
4. Robinson, Zwolle	7.5
5. de Randamie, Groni.	6.9
6. van Kempen, Weert	6.6
7. Van Paassen, Den	6.5
8. Wesley, Den Bosch	6.5
9. Boxley, Leiden	6.3
10. Humphrey, Nijmegen	6.2

Assists Per Game

Frank TURNER
  Den Bosch
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Turner, Den Bosch	4.7
2. Anderson, Weert	4.6
3. Harman, Weert	4.4
4. Jeter, Leeuwarden	3.9
5. Wells, Zwolle	3.5
6. Acker, Nijmegen	3.4
7. Huffman, Zwolle	3.1
8. Defares, Groningen	3.0
9. Bell, Groningen	3.0
10. Slagter, Leiden	3.0

Steals Per Game

Robbie HARMAN
  Weert
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.5

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

Blocks Per Game

Kareem MADDOX
  Zwolle
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Maddox, Zwolle	1.7
2. Wyatt, Groningen	1.3
3. Wesley, Den Bosch	1.3
4. Bekkering, Nijme.	1.1
5. Zondervan, Zwolle	0.9
6. Minter, Weert	0.9
7. Poels, Leeuwarden	0.8
8. Boxley, Leiden	0.8
9. Saaka, Zwolle	0.7
10. Kennedy, Leiden	0.7

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

IBL

Olympia Reign Become Kings of a New Court - by Kip Leonetti
The Olympia Reign are getting ready to be the kings of their new court with the announcement that the team will be going inside the Skookum Creek Event Center at the Little Creek Casino and Resort for its home games during the 2012 International Basketball League season.

The Reign, competing in their fifth IBL season, will be making a run for the league championship led by their owner, Mark Felton, who is excited about the expanded partnership with the Little Creek Casino and Resort. ''I am so thankful that Little Creek Casino and Resort, Kamilche Trading Post, and The Landing have stepped up and provided not only the sponsorship but a top of the line venue to feature the Olympia Reign games,'' commented Felton. ''Without their support, none of this would be able to happen.''

''The Little Creek Casino and Resort has set themselves apart from all other casinos with the amenities they have to offer, and now they have added IBL Basketball to their menu. This year is going to be special and I cannot give enough thanks for the relationship I have with the people who are making all this happen,'' stated the elated Reign owner.

''We welcome the Reign to their new home and believe this adds tremendous value to our entertainment offerings, a professional basketball team right here at the Little Creek Casino and Resort! Our sponsorship has grown into a true partnership with Mark, and we look forward to the inaugural season at the Skookum Creek Event Center with many more to come,'' stated Martin Myers, Director of Marketing. The Casino and Event Center are preparing for the new basketball floor and equipment to arrive shortly.

IBL commissioner Sharleen Graf is also looking forward to the Reigns new home. ''Not only will fans enjoy fast paced professional basketball, but this is an all-in-one entertainment facility including a golf course. It is a first for the IBL,'' commented Graf.

On the court, the Reign will follow the game plan of head coach Steve Smothers with many familiar faces, including IBL all-star guards Mike Ward and Nate Menefee, and forward Bill Richardson who is currently on tour with the Harlem Globetrotters as a player for the opposing Washington Generals. ''Coach Smothers will be bringing an exciting brand of basketball to the court. He will be coaching a fast-paced game and we will have the players to successfully achieve our goals. We will provide a fun family atmosphere for all to enjoy,'' shared Felton about his coach and game experience.

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

ICELAND

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

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

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Brandon COTTON
  Snaefell
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 35.3

1. Cotton, Snaefell	35.3
2. Govens, Thor Thorl	25.0
3. Jarvis, IR	24.3
4. Walkup, Fjolnir	24.3
5. Sovic, IR	23.7
6. Dagostino, Keflavik	22.9
7. Echols, Njardvik	22.9
8. Johnson, Valur	22.8
9. Shuler, Haukar	22.7
10. Fain, Haukar	22.5

Rebounds Per Game

Quincy HANKINS-COLE
  Snaef.
  (203-F-)
  Avg: 13.7

1. Hankins-Cole, Snae.	13.7
2. Ringgold, Thor Tho.	11.3
3. Echols, Njardvik	11.3
4. Walkup, Fjolnir	10.9
5. Tratnik, Valur	10.3
6. Shuler, Haukar	10.0
7. Cole, Keflavik	10.0
8. Hampton, Tindastoll	9.9
9. Smith, Haukar	9.4
10. Miller, Tindastoll	9.2

Assists Per Game

Giordan WATSON
  Grindavik
  (178-G-85)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Watson, Grindavik	7.1
2. Hall, Snaefell	6.9
3. Miller, Tindastoll	6.6
4. Shouse, Stjarnan	6.5
5. Claessen, IR	5.7
6. Dagostino, Keflavik	4.8
7. O''Neil, Fjolnir	4.7
8. Haraldsson, Haukar	4.6
9. Steinarsson, Fjoln.	4.4
10. Horton, KR	4.3

Steals Per Game

Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 3

1. Holmes, Njardvik	3.0
2. Hall, Snaefell	2.8
3. Cothran, Stjarnan	2.6
4. Shuler, Haukar	2.5
5. Shouse, Stjarnan	2.5
6. Parker, Keflavik	2.5
7. Gunnarsson, Kefla.	2.3
8. Miller, Tindastoll	2.1
9. Barja, Haukar	2.0
10. Jonsson, Thor Tho.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Christopher SMITH
  Haukar
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Smith, Haukar	3.3
2. Hugee, Valur	2.3
3. Tratnik, Valur	2.2
4. Hampton, Tindastoll	1.3
5. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.	1.2
6. Ragnarsson, Fjolnir	1.1
7. Magnusson, KR	1.0
8. Thorsteinsso., Gri.	1.0
9. Johnson, Valur	1.0
10. Jonsson, Snaefell	0.9

Express L. Round 11: IR is defeated by KR in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
Express L. is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 11 rounds left.

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Reykjavik: KR (#5) and IR (#6). KR (7-4) crushed visiting IR (5-6) by 31 points 102-71. KR have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Thor Thorl. IR at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. KR is looking forward to face Thor Thorl (#5) in Thorlakshofn in the next round. IR will play at home against Fjolnir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Stjarnan. Second-ranked host Stjarnan (8-3) lost to first ranked Grindavik (10-1) 75-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Stjarnan. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan) who led the winners with a triple-double by scoring 19 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. J'Nathan Bullock accounted for 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. American-Estonian forward Renato Lindmets (198-84, college: Westfield St.) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for Stjarnan in the defeat. Grindavik have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Keflavik. Grindavik will play against Keflavik (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Stjarnan will play against Tindastoll in Sauoarkrokur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Valur (0-11) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their 11th consecutive match to ninth ranked Snaefell (5-6) 108-70 on Friday evening. The best player for the winners was Quincy Hankins-Cole who scored 24 points and 9 rebounds. Igor Tratnik produced 19 points and 6 rebounds for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Snaefell moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Newly promoted Valur still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Snaefell will meet at home Haukar (#11) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Valur will play against Njardvik in Njardvik and hopes to get finally their first victory.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 11: Fjolnir lost to Keflavik on the opponent's court 81-96. Thor Thorl managed to outperform Haukar in a home game 82-76. Tindastoll managed to beat Njardvik on the road 93-85.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 30 points, 17 rebounds and 9 blocks by Junior Hairston of Thor Thorl.

Keflavik - Fjolnir 96-81

Very expected game when 7th ranked Fjolnir (5-6) was defeated on the road by third ranked Keflavik (8-3) 96-81 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 96-81. Keflavik made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Jarryd Cole (200-88, college: Iowa) who had a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Charles Parker (193-85, college: Millersville) chipped in a double-double by scoring 27 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. Keflavik's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Nathan Walkup (200-88, college: Texas A&M) produced a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds and forward Jon Sverrisson (197-88) added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists respectively for the guests. Four Fjolnir players scored in double figures. Keflavik moved-up to second place, which they share with Stjarnan. Loser Fjolnir dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Keflavik will meet at home league's leader Grindavik in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Fjolnir will play against IR (#6) in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: J.Cole 34+18reb+1ast, C.Parker 27+11reb+5ast, S.Dagostino 22+4reb+7ast, A.Gudbrandsson 9+4reb+3ast, R.Albertsson 4+1reb, A.Danielsson 0
Fjolnir: N.Walkup 38+11reb+2ast, J.Sverrisson 13+5reb+6ast, A.Gudmundsson 12+3reb+7ast, C.O'Neil 11+6reb+5ast, B.Rikhardsson 5+4reb+1ast, H.Sverrisson 2

KR - IR 102-71

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Reykjavik: KR (#5) and IR (#6). KR (7-4) crushed visiting IR (5-6) by 31 points 102-71. KR have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Thor Thorl. IR at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. KR is looking forward to face Thor Thorl (#5) in Thorlakshofn in the next round. IR will play at home against Fjolnir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Thor Thorl - Haukar 82-76

Very predictable result in Thorlakshofn where fifth ranked Thor Thorl (7-4) defeated 11th ranked Haukar (2-9) 82-76 on Thursday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Thor Thorl made 10 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was forward Junior Hairston (203-84, college: Towson, agency: KMG Sports Management) who had a double-double by scoring 30 points, 17 rebounds and 9 blocks. Guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) chipped in 20 points. Forward Hayward Fain (196, college: St.Augustine, agency: Strategic Sports) produced a double-double by scoring 32 points and 13 rebounds and forward Christopher Smith (198-82, college: St.Edward's) added 27 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Thor Thorl moved-up to fourth place, which they share with KR. Haukar lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with nine games lost. Thor Thorl will meet at home KR (#4) in the next round. Haukar will play against Snaefell (#8) in Stykkisholmur and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Thor Thorl: J.Hairston 30+17reb+1ast, D.Govens 20+4reb+3ast, G.Jonsson 16+4reb+6ast, B.Ragnarsson 6+1ast, B.Janev 5+7reb+3ast, D.Hilmarsson 5+4reb+2ast
Haukar: H.Fain 32+13reb+3ast, C.Smith 27+12reb+4ast, E.Barja 7+3reb+3ast, S.Haraldsson 4+3reb+1ast, D.Hermannsson 4+4reb+1ast, H.Einarsson 2+1reb

Njardvik - Tindastoll 85-93

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked Tindastoll and 10th ranked Njardvik had identical 4-6 record. But Njardvik was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Sauoarkrokur 93-85 on Thursday night. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Njardvik won third quarter 23-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tindastoll made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 52.2 percentage. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was guard Curtis Allen (193-86, college: ORU) who scored 21 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Maurice Miller (187-88, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in a double-double by scoring 11 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists. Power forward Cameron Echols (203-81, college: Ball St.) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and guard Travis Holmes (193, college: VMI, agency: Strategic Sports) added 21 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Five Tindastoll and four Njardvik players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Tindastoll (5-6) moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Njardvik lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with seven games lost. Tindastoll will meet league's second-placed Stjarnan on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Njardvik will play against Valur (#12) in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Tindastoll: C.Allen 21+8reb+3ast, F.Hreinsson 15+1ast, S.Birgisson 13+3reb, M.Luttman 11+9reb, T.Johannsson 11+8reb+1ast, M.Miller 11+5reb+11ast
Njardvik: C.Echols 21+10reb+1ast, T.Holmes 21+7reb+3ast, O.Jonsson 16+4reb+4ast, E.Fridriksson 12+2reb+7ast, H.Einarsson 6+8reb+5ast, M.Baginski 6+1reb+1ast

Stjarnan - Grindavik 67-75

The game between Top Four teams took place in Stjarnan. Second-ranked host Stjarnan (8-3) lost to first ranked Grindavik (10-1) 75-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Stjarnan. The guests were already 17 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 24-15 Stjarnan's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 75-67 at the end of the game. Grindavik players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) who led the winners with a triple-double by scoring 19 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. His fellow American import forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-87, college: Cleveland St., agency: Pro One Sports) accounted for 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. American-Estonian forward Renato Lindmets (198-84, college: Westfield St.) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Marvin Valdimarsson (198-81) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Stjarnan in the defeat. Four Grindavik and five Stjarnan players scored in double figures. Grindavik have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Keflavik. Grindavik will play against Keflavik (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Stjarnan will play against Tindastoll in Sauoarkrokur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Grindavik: G.Watson 19+11reb+11ast, J.Olafsson 15+2reb+4ast, J.Bullock 14+11reb+4ast, O.Saevarsson 12+5reb+1ast, S.Thorsteinsson 7+6reb+1ast, T.Olafsson 6+3reb+3ast
Stjarnan: J.Shouse 15+1reb+5ast, M.Valdimarsson 14+7reb+2ast, R.Lindmets 12+8reb+4ast, K.Cothran 11+5reb, S.Larusson 10+8reb+1ast, F.Helgason 4+2reb+1ast

Snaefell - Valur 108-70

Bottom-ranked Valur (0-11) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their 11th consecutive match to ninth ranked Snaefell (5-6) 108-70 on Friday evening. The game without a history. Snaefell led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Snaefell forced 21 Valur turnovers and outrebounded them 47-33 including 32 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Valur's players. The best player for the winners was American forward Quincy Hankins-Cole (203, agency: Hoops Ambassadors) who scored 24 points and 9 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) chipped in 14 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Five Snaefell players scored in double figures. Slovenian power forward Igor Tratnik (206-89) produced 19 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Garrison Johnson (196-88, college: Jackson St., agency: Strategic Sports) added 14 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Snaefell moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Newly promoted Valur still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Snaefell will meet at home Haukar (#11) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Valur will play against Njardvik in Njardvik and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Snaefell: Q.Hankins-Cole 24+9reb+1ast, O.Torfason 16+7reb, H.Gunnarsson 15+3reb+3ast, M.Hall 14+7reb+8ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 11+9reb+2ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 10+1reb+4ast
Valur: I.Tratnik 19+6reb, G.Johnson 14+1reb+1ast, R.Gylfason 9+2reb+3ast, B.Blondal 8+3reb+1ast, B.Petursson 6+8reb+2ast, A.Bracey 6+3reb+1ast

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

INDONESIA

Dwi Priasmoro's 30-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
22-year old shooting guard Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-SG-89) put on an amazing game in the last round for Bima Sakti and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
He had the game-high 30 points adding four rebounds and four assists for Bima Sakti in his team's victory, helping them to beat NSH GMC Riau (#11, 1-8) 78-69. Bima Sakti is placed at 8th position in Indonesian league. Bima Sakti is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 3-5 record. In the team's last game Dwi Priasmoro had a remarkable 58.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Bima Sakti's top player in his first season with the team. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro averages this season 14.4ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-PF-90). He is a forward in his first season at Bima Sakti. In the last game Rizky Ardiansyah recorded impressive 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. Of course Bima Sakti cruised to a 78-69 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked NSH GMC Riau (#11, 1-8). This victory allowed Bima Sakti to move up to 8th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-5 record. Rizky Ardiansyah is a newcomer at Bima Sakti and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Max Yanto (215-C-83) of NSH GMC Riau (#11). Yanto scored 19 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Yanto's great performance NSH GMC Riau lost 69-78 to the higher-ranked Bima Sakti (#8, 3-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. NSH GMC Riau can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-8 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Yanto he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Yanto has individually a great season in Indonesia. After only 6 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.8rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Christian Ronaldo Sitepu (200-C/F-86) of Satria Muda - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Wendha Wijaya (181-PG-82) of Garuda - 22 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Boy Damanik (192-F/C-76) of NSH GMC Riau - 8 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Reza Israelli (182-SF-82) of NSH GMC Riau - 16 points and 8 rebounds
8. Khalif Akbar (193-F-87) of Aspac - 9 points and 4 rebounds
9. Fandi Andika Ramadhani (184-SF-85) of Aspac - 6 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Octoviano Sura (190-PF-84) of Garuda - 7 points, 3 rebounds and 6 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)

NBL Round 15: Pelita Jaya is defeated by CLS Knights - by Eurobasket News
The game between second ranked Pelita Jaya (7-3) and fifth ranked CLS Knights (6-3) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Pelita Jaya was crushed by CLS Knights in Jakarta 69-48. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pelita Jaya. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 69-48. CLS Knights forced 20 Pelita Jaya turnovers. It was a great evening for point guard Dimaz Muharri (181-85) who led his team to a victory scoring 9 points and 13 rebounds. The former international center Agustinus Indrajaya (191-C-83) helped adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was international forward Dimas Aryo Dewanto (180-86) with 20 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CLS Knights have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 6-3 record. Defending champion Pelita Jaya dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CLS Knights are looking forward to face NSH GMC Riau (#11) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Pelita Jaya will have a break next round.
NBL top team - Satria Muda (9-0) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Satya Wacana (0-9) in Salatiga 75-60. It was a quality performance for guard Arki Wisnu (187-88) who led the winners and scored 13 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Bonanza Siregar accounted for 20 points. Guard Yo Sua (180-91) came up with 15 points and 6 rebounds for Satya Wacana in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Undefeated Satria Muda have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-0 record. Satya Wacana at the other side still closes the standings with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Seventh ranked Muba Hangtuah (5-4) crushed at home 10th ranked Comfort Mobile (2-8) by 34 points 77-43, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. The best player for the winners was Ary Sapto who scored 20 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Andri Hermawan who recorded 12 points. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Muba Hangtuah moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Stadium Jak. Comfort Mobile lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the tenth position with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last game of round 15 Aspac destroyed Pacific Caesar on the opponent's court 75-42.

Pelita Jaya - CLS Knights 48-69

The game between second ranked Pelita Jaya (7-3) and fifth ranked CLS Knights (6-3) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Pelita Jaya was crushed by CLS Knights in Jakarta 69-48. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pelita Jaya. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 69-48. CLS Knights forced 20 Pelita Jaya turnovers. It was a great evening for point guard Dimaz Muharri (181-85) who led his team to a victory scoring 9 points and 13 rebounds. The former international center Agustinus Indrajaya (191-83) helped adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was international forward Dimas Aryo Dewanto (180-86) with 20 points and the former international center Ponsianus Indrawan (191-85) scored 8 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. CLS Knights have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 6-3 record. Defending champion Pelita Jaya dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. CLS Knights are looking forward to face NSH GMC Riau (#11) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Pelita Jaya will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Pelita Jaya: D.Aryo Dewanto 20+2reb+3ast, P.Indrawan 8+6reb, E.Sebayang 5+1ast, A.Chandra 4+4reb, J.Sucipto 3+3reb, V.Palopo 2+2reb+1ast
CLS Knights: A.Indrajaya 14+8reb, S.Febiansyakh 13+4reb+1ast, R.Utomo 10+6reb+2ast, A.Ekayana 9, D.Muharri 9+13reb+1ast, D.Haryoko 8+2reb+1ast

Muba Hangtuah - Comfort Mobile 77-43

Seventh ranked Muba Hangtuah (5-4) crushed at home 10th ranked Comfort Mobile (2-8) by 34 points 77-43, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. The game was mostly controlled by Muba Hangtuah. Comfort Mobile managed to win third quarter 18-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Comfort Mobile to just 7 points in second quarter. Muba Hangtuah held Comfort Mobile to an opponent 23.8 percent shooting from the field compared to 45.1 percent accuracy of the winners. Muba Hangtuah forced 21 Comfort Mobile turnovers and outrebounded them 45-31 including a 31-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was forward Ary Sapto (188-80) who scored 20 points and 5 rebounds. Swingman Tri Wilopo (180-86) chipped in 7 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Andri Hermawan (180-92) who recorded 12 points and Rendra Rudini (192-89) added 5 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Muba Hangtuah moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Stadium Jak. Comfort Mobile lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the tenth position with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Comfort Mobile: A.Hermawan 12+3reb, A.Sabara 8+3reb+1ast, H.Herlusdityo 5+1reb+1ast, S.Afriatna 5+2reb+1ast, R.Rudini 5+7reb, R.Orlando Uniputty 4+3reb
Muba Hangtuah: A.Sapto 20+5reb, A.Sigar 13+2reb+2ast, H.Hardianus 10+4reb+4ast, D.Heryadi 9+3reb+1ast, T.Wilopo 7+5reb+6ast, A.Prasetyo 5+2reb

Satya Wacana - Satria Muda 60-75

NBL top team - Satria Muda (9-0) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Satya Wacana (0-9) in Salatiga 75-60. Satya Wacana was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 40-24 second half run of Satria Muda. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a quality performance for guard Arki Wisnu (187-88) who led the winners and scored 13 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Bonanza Siregar (192-87) accounted for 20 points for the winning side. Four Satria Muda players scored in double figures. Guard Yo Sua (180-91) came up with 15 points and 6 rebounds and guard Respati Pamungkas (180-91) added 13 points respectively for Satya Wacana in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Satria Muda have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-0 record. Satya Wacana at the other side still closes the standings with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Satya Wacana: Y.Sua 15+6reb, J.Lolowang 14+2ast, R.Pamungkas 13+4reb+1ast, L.Gunawan 6+5reb+1ast, J.Hasoloan 6+6reb+2ast, E.Wiratama Nasution 4+7reb
Satria Muda: B.Siregar 20+4reb+1ast, F.Julius Ahmad 13+4reb+1ast, A.Wisnu 13+9reb+6ast, W.Situmorang 10+9reb+1ast, C.Ronaldo Sitepu 9+7reb+2ast, V.Michel 5+2reb+4ast

Pacific Caesar - Aspac 42-75

Very expected game in Surabaya where 9th ranked Pacific Caesar (3-7) was crushed by fourth ranked Aspac (7-2) 75-42 on Thursday. The game without a history. Aspac led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They held Pacific Caesar to an opponent 24.1 percent shooting from the field compared to 33.7 percent accuracy of the winners. Aspac forced 25 Pacific Caesar turnovers and outrebounded them 53-28 including a 17-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was the former international center Isman Thoyib (202-84) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 14 rebounds. Forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) chipped in a double-double by scoring 10 points and 11 rebounds. Five Aspac players scored in double figures. Aspac's coach Tjetjep Firmansyah felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to get some rest. At the other side the best for losing team was Dewa Galih (185-87) who recorded 10 points and 6 rebounds and center Eko Sasmito (188-85) added 11 points and 6 rebounds respectively. The victory was the third consecutive win for Aspac. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Garuda. Pacific Caesar lost their third game in a row. They keep the ninth position with seven games lost. Aspac will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pacific Caesar will play against Stadium Jakarta (#6) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Pacific Caesar: E.Sasmito 11+6reb, D.Galih 10+6reb+1ast, H.Listiyono 6+1reb, G.Nagata 6+4reb+2ast, M.Fauzia 5+2reb+2ast, R.Anggakara 2+1reb
Aspac: X.Prawiro 15+1reb, I.Thoyib 12+14reb+1ast, O.Wira Sanjaya 11+6reb+2ast, S.Harun Nurman 10+5reb+2ast, P.Regowo 10+11reb, D.Gerungan 7+2reb+2ast

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Yanuar DWI PRIASMORO
  Bima S.
  (178-SG-89)
  Avg: 14.4

1. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.	14.4
2. Nagata, Pacific	14.3
3. Dewanto, Pelita J.	13.4
4. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	13.0
5. Sapto, Muba H.	12.9
6. Ahmad, Satria Muda	12.9
7. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	12.9
8. Chandra, Pelita J.	12.7
9. Prawiro, Aspac	12.6
10. Wisnu, Satria Muda	12.1

Rebounds Per Game

Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Gunawan, Satria M.	11.2
2. Sitepu, Satria M.	8.4
3. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	7.6
4. Regowo, Aspac	7.1
5. Thoyib, Aspac	7.0
6. Situmorang, Satria	7.0
7. Poedjakesuma, Peli.	6.9
8. Yanto, NSH G.	6.8
9. Wuwungan, Satya W.	6.5
10. Haryoko, CLS K.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Dirk GERUNGAN
  Aspac
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Gerungan, Aspac	3.7
2. Sartika, Bima Sakti	3.6
3. Widyanto, Pacifi.	3.4
4. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.3
5. Muharri, CLS K.	2.9
6. Wilopo, Muba H.	2.8
7. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.8
8. Yusran, Stadium	2.7
9. Trisakti, Aspac	2.5
10. Hardianus, Muba H.	2.4

Steals Per Game

Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.7
2. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.6
3. Muharri, CLS K.	2.6
4. Sura, Garuda	2.3
5. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	2.2
6. Michel, Satria Muda	2.2
7. Poedjakesuma, Peli.	2.1
8. Nurman, Aspac	2.1
9. Sitepu, Satria M.	2.1
10. Wijaya, Garuda	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Christian Ronaldo SITEPU
  Satria M.
  (200-C/F-86)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Sitepu, Satria M.	3.3
2. Ruslan, Stadium	2.2
3. Thoyib, Aspac	2.1
4. Teguh, Muba H.	1.9
5. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.	1.6
6. Sasmito, Pacific	1.3
7. Damanik, NSH G.	1.3
8. Indrawan, Pelita J.	1.2
9. Arizki, Aspac	1.1
10. Listiyono, Pacifi.	0.9

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

IRAN

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Mahram		17-0
2. Foolad Mahan		13-3
3. Azad		12-5
4. Petrochimi		11-5
5. Zob Ahan		11-5
6. Sanaye Petrochimi		8-8
7. M.H.Ahvaz		6-11
8. Pouya		6-11
9. Shiraz a.s Pipe		5-12
10. Gorgan		5-12
11. Jahesh		3-14
12. Zanjan		3-14

WABA League: Zob Ahan dominate Tilal - by Eurobasket News
Zob Ahan - Tilal 103:57

Zob Ahan claimed the second straight win at the WABA League preliminary round. They knocked down Tilal to improve at 2-0 record in Group A. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) stepped up with 22 points and 12 rebounds to pace the Iranian team. Tilal in the meantime fell at 0-3 record.
Zob Ahan grabbed the initiative right from the start. They claimed a 28:11 lead ten minutes into the game. Zob Ahan stayed in front throughout the second quarter. They piled up a comfortable 49:23 halftime cushion. The margin grew at 30-point mark at the final break and Zob Ahan cruised to the victory at the end. Karam Ahmadian (197-F-77) scored 18 points, while Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86) and Emad Salmani (188-G-90, agency: SportsList Inc.) netted 13 points each in the win. Mamady Macalou (194-G/F-79) nailed 19 points and 7 rebounds for Tilal. Ahmed Abdulghafor (200-C-88) banked 13 points in the loss.

Zob Ahan: Loren Woods 22+12 boards, Karam Ahmadian 18, Oshin Sahakian 13, Emad Salmani 13
Tilal: Mamady Macalou 19, Ahmed Abdulghafor 13

WABA League: Petrochimi tame Aramex - by Eurobasket News
Petrochimi - Aramex 85:55

Petrochimi gained the second win in a row at WABA League preliminary round. The Iranian team toppled Aramex of Jordan to improve at 2-1 record. Jiri Hubalek (209-C-82, college: Iowa St.) led the effort with 29 points and 13 rebounds to his name. Aramex slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Aramex got to a brave start. The Jordanian team led by two points at the end of the opening quarter 16:14. They maintained the lead for some time in the second term but Petrochimi surged ahead for a narrow 31:28 halftime advantage. Petrochimi went on a strong rally late in the third period to ensure a 62:39 advantage with one quarter remaining. Petrochimi boosted the gap in the fourth period and raced to a comfortable victory at the end. Benny Koochoie (190-G-86, college: CS Stanislaus) provided 13 points, while Karekani had 11 points in the win. Issa Issa (186-F-78) and Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) accounted for 11 points each in the loss.

Petrochimi: Jiri Hubalek 29+13 boards, Benny Koochoie 13, Karekani 11
Aramex: Issa Issa 11, Ayman Idais 11

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

JAMAICA

Oshawa Power lands Shand - by Eurobasket Center
Oshawa Power (NBL Canada) strengthened their roster with addition of 38-year old naturalized Jamaican center Kevin Shand (209-C-127kg-74, college: Duquesne). In his first game he scored 3 points and grabbed 10 rebounds helping his new team beat Summerside S. 131-122. Shand played most recently at Edmonton Energy (IBL). He is a very experienced player. Shand played also pro basketball in Australia, Bulgaria, France, Hungary, Kuwait, Mexico and Romania. He graduated University of Duquesne in 1999 and actually missed last season. It will be his 13th (hopefully lucky) season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

CSS Giurgiu announced Jamaican Shakir Johnson - by Eurobasket News
CSS Giurgiu announced Jamaican Shakir Johnson (205-F/C-87) for the rest of the season. The player comes from Metropolitan State College of Denver.
Unfortunately, Metros season ended in the opening round against St. Cloud State, 77-82. Minor lost control of the ball and the Huskies recovered it and made a pair of free throws with 0.2 seconds left in regulation, eliminating the Roadrunners.
I actually feel pretty good, even though we ended the way we didnt necessarily wanted to, reserve center Shakir Johnson said. We made some really good progress, had 10 new recruits and we did well with them. Hopefully, well do better next season. (Courtesy of http://www.metnews.org).
Before Metro State he played his freshman season at Santa Monica College and his sophomore season at West Los Angeles College. He was named first team Western State Conference in 2008-09. He averaged 14.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.8 blocks.
Shakir Johnson became RMAC East Division Regular Season Co-Champion -10, RMAC Tournament Winner -10 and All-RMAC Defensive Player of the Year -11. He also was RMAC Regular Season Finalist -11 and RMAC Tournament Semifinals -11.

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

JORDAN

WABA League: Petrochimi tame Aramex - by Eurobasket News
Petrochimi - Aramex 85:55

Petrochimi gained the second win in a row at WABA League preliminary round. The Iranian team toppled Aramex of Jordan to improve at 2-1 record. Jiri Hubalek (209-C-82, college: Iowa St.) led the effort with 29 points and 13 rebounds to his name. Aramex slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Aramex got to a brave start. The Jordanian team led by two points at the end of the opening quarter 16:14. They maintained the lead for some time in the second term but Petrochimi surged ahead for a narrow 31:28 halftime advantage. Petrochimi went on a strong rally late in the third period to ensure a 62:39 advantage with one quarter remaining. Petrochimi boosted the gap in the fourth period and raced to a comfortable victory at the end. Benny Koochoie (190-G-86, college: CS Stanislaus) provided 13 points, while Karekani had 11 points in the win. Issa Issa (186-F-78) and Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) accounted for 11 points each in the loss.

Petrochimi: Jiri Hubalek 29+13 boards, Benny Koochoie 13, Karekani 11
Aramex: Issa Issa 11, Ayman Idais 11

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

LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

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

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

LITHUANIA

BBL Elite Division and Challenge Cup Friday overview - by Adomas Kraunevicius

KK Baltai Kaunas - BK Ventspils 77:83

KK Baltai Kaunas (2-10) had to admit BK Ventspils' (7-6) superiority at the end of the match. They lost a home game 77:83 (22:21, 19:17, 15:19, 21:26).

Midway in the fourth quarter they trailed by only 1 point (65:66) but BK Ventspils organized a 7:1 and built a decisive lead 73:66.

KK Baltai Kaunas: Mario Delas (207-F/C-90) 19, Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90) 15, Zygimantas Janavicius (192-G-89, agency: Interperformances) 12.

BK Ventspils: Jahmar Young (196-G-86, college: N.Mexico St.) and Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia) 17, Todd Abernethy (185-G-84, college: Mississippi) 15 (11 rebs.)

This was a third loss in a row for Kaunas. They are currently last in the league table whereas BK Ventspils reached only their second victory in the last six matches. The first match between these two teams was also won by Venstpils 82:77.

BBL Challenge Cup:

BC Rakvere Tarvas - Neptunas Klaipeda 100:88

Neptunas Klaipeda (5-3) suffered their third loss in Group A of the BBL Challenge Cup losing away game to BC Rakvere Tarvas (5-2) 88:100 (11:24, 31:24, 20:25, 26:27) .

Klaipeda who only registered 8 players for this match let their opponents run away early in the game. BC Rakvere Tarvas sensed Neptunas Klaipeda' weakness and tried to control the tempo of the game leading throughout the entire match.

Neptunas Klaipeda left Marius Runkaukas (189-G-86) (sprained ankle) and Evaldas Dainys (180-PG-82, college: Cent.Florida CC) (cold) back in Klaipeda. Starting forward Simas Galdikas (203-F-87) also only played 7 minutes in the match.

BC Rakvere Tarvas: Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85, agency: Promotex) 25 (8 rebs.), Valmo Kriisa (190-G-74) 18, Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) 13 (11 rebs.), Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) 12.

Neptunas Klaipeda: Raimundas Danys (198-G/F-85) 22, Mantas Ruikis (197-G/F-85) 20, Mindaugas Girdziunas (188-G-89) 14 (9 fouls received), Arturs Brunins (199-F-82) 14, Martynas Mazeika (193-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) 10.

Neptunas Klaipeda won the first round match 103:70.

Panevezys Techasas - TTU/Kalev Tallinn 92:79

Panevezys Techasas (7-2) reached their seventh victory in the BBL Challenge Cup at home defeating TTU/Kalev Tallinn (3-6) 92:79 (23:25, 20:20, 27:11, 22:23).

At the beginning of the third quarter the score was tied at 49:49 but the hosts spurted 17:7 and build a double digit lead 66:56. Panevezys Techasas dominated the board in this match getting 48 rebounds versus TTU/Kalev Tallinn's 32. The first round match in Tallinn was also won by Panevezys Techasas - 80:72.

Panevezys Techasas: Sarunas Kulevicius (190-G-89) (9 rebs.) and Edgaras Stanionis (193-G-88) 16, Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-G-89, agency: Alti Sport) 11.

TTU/Kalev Tallinn: Illimar Pilk (195-F-88) 20, Kristjan Makke (205-F/C-81, college: W.Illinois) 13, Andrew Arnold (208-C-86, college: Lewis-Clark St.) 12.

BK Zemgale Jelgava - Naglis Palangos 88:71

Naglis Palangos (5-2) suffered a somewhat surprising loss versus the outsiders of the Cup Latvian BK Zemgale Jelgava (1-7) 71:88 (16:23, 17:23, 15:18, 23:24). This was a second loss in a row for Naglis Palangos and first loss away. Meanwhile, BK Zemgale Jelgava celebrated their first victory.

Naglis Palangos shot only 23.8% of the three pointers versus 50% of BK Zemgale Jelgava and 47.1% free throws versus 80%. Moreover, they made 10 assists compared to 19 of BK Zemgale Jelgava.

Augustinas Vitas (210-C-82, college: Birm.Southern) debuted in Palanga and scored 12 points (5/6 2 pt, 2/3 ft), 2 rebounds, 1 foul, 2 turnovers and 9 value points.

BK Zemgale Jelgava: Edgars Krumins (194-G/F-86) 24 (5/6 3pt), Armands Senkans (197-F-90) 14 (11 rebs.), Kristaps Kanbergs (190-G-88) 12, Arturs Duselis (200-F-89)10 (7 rebs.)

Naglis Palangos: Paul Davis (205-F-88, college: Winston Salem) 17 (10 rebs.), Augustinas Vitas 12, Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) (200-F-91) 11 (10 rebs.), Paulius Kleiza (195-SF-88) 9, Rico Pickett (193-G-89, college: Manhattan) 8.

Sakalai Vilnius - Piimameister Otto/Rapla 87:64

Arvydas Arvydas Gydra (206-F-89) (206-F-89) led Sakalai Vilnius (7-2) with 36 value points to their seventh victory versus Piimameister Otto/Rapla (2-7) 87:64 (24:23, 27:20, 12:8, 24:13).

Sakalai Vilnius built a decisive lead over the end of the second quarter and the beginning of the third with a 15:3 run and developed a double digit lead 58:44.

Sakalai Vilnius: Arvydas Gydra 21, Rolandas Matulis (199-C-73) and Laurynas Samenas (192-G-88) 12.

Piimameister Otto/Rapla: Sven Kaldre (197-G/F-91) 21, Indrek Kajupank (200-F-88) 18, Andre Parn (200-F-77) 12.

NKL Round 25: LKKA-Atletas are upset by Mazeikiai - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in NKL is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 5 rounds.

The game between second ranked LKKA-Atletas (15-10) and sixth ranked Mazeikiai (15-10) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. LKKA-Atletas was crushed by Mazeikiai in Mazeikiai 91-72. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of LKKA-Atletas. The game without a history. Mazeikiai led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to LKKA-Atletas' 32. It was a great shooting night for Mazeikiai especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American guard Parrish Brown (185-G-84, agency: Hightower Law Firm, college: Maryland) fired 28 points for the winners. Forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) chipped in 17 points (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!). Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) produced 19 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. LKKA-Atletas' coach Edas Nickus rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Mazeikiai have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with defeated LKKA-Atletas. Mazeikiai is looking forward to face Zalgiris-Sabonio (#8) in Kaunas in the next round. LKKA-Atletas will play at home against the league's leader Nafta Universitetas (#1) in Klaipeda and is hoping to win this game.
Leader Nafta Universitetas delivered the seventeenth victory. This time they beat 12th ranked Meresta (10-15) 73-67 in Klaipeda. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Evaldas Lengvinas (190-89) who helped to win the game recording 23 points. Julius Kazakauskas contributed with 15 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Nafta Universitetas' coach Dainius Miliunas allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) answered with 18 points and 5 rebounds for Meresta. Nafta Universitetas maintains first place with 17-8 record. Meresta lost their third game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 15 games lost. Nafta Universitetas will play against LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round. Meresta will play against Matinga-Juod. (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Ezerunas-Karys (13-12) survived in overtime against Perlas-MRU (12-13) by seven points 92-85 on Friday night. Raimondas Ambrulaitis stepped up and scored 28 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side Gintautas Vileita responded with 25 points and 6 rebounds. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Triobet. Perlas-MRU at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 13 games lost. Ezerunas-Karys will meet Triobet (#10) in the next round. Perlas-MRU will play against Gargzdai-Bremena and hope to secure a win.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Siauliai, where higher ranked Triobet (13-12) lost to fifteenth ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-18) in a road game 63-68. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triobet. Julius Jucikas nailed 31 points and 8 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Triobet's coach Kestutis Narusevicius tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. ABRO-Universitetas maintains fifteenth place with 7-18 record. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 12 games lost. ABRO-Universitetas' next round opponent will be higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#14) in Vilnius and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

Other games of round 25 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Zalgiris-Sabonio was defeated by Statyba in Vilnius 83-76. Bottom-ranked Gargzdai was beaten by Radviliskis at home 66-70. Silute lost to Matinga-Juod. on the opponent's court 71-76. Delikatesas managed to outperform S.Marciulionio in a home game 84-69.

Ezerunas-Karys - Perlas-MRU 92-85 OT

Ezerunas-Karys (13-12) survived in overtime against Perlas-MRU (12-13) by seven points 92-85 on Friday night. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 16-15 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 7-point victory in overtime. Ezerunas-Karys dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Perlas-MRU's 30 and made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Forward Raimondas Ambrulaitis (199-82) stepped up and scored 28 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Giedrius Kulbis (187-81) chipped in 17 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side guard Gintautas Vileita (193-75, college: Monmouth) responded with 25 points and 6 rebounds and forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Triobet. Perlas-MRU at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 13 games lost. Ezerunas-Karys will meet Triobet (#10) in the next round. Perlas-MRU will play against Gargzdai-Bremena and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Ezerunas-Karys: R.Ambrulaitis 28+6reb+1ast, G.Kulbis 17+5reb+5ast, A.Slezas 10+5reb+4ast, M.Kugauda 9+2reb+2ast, T.Lukosevicius 8+4reb, K.Alekna 7+7reb+1ast
Perlas-MRU: G.Vileita 25+6reb+3ast, K.Brusokas 21+7reb+1ast, M.Kazonas 13+4reb, E.Molosciakas 12+3reb+2ast, T.Padegimas 9+6reb+1ast, P.Semaska 3+6reb+9ast

Statyba - Zalgiris-Sabonio 83-76

There was a minor upset in Vilnius where higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (14-11) was defeated by ninth ranked Statyba (14-11) 83-76. Zalgiris-Sabonio was ahead by 7 points at the halftime before a 51-37 second half run of Statyba. They shot 60.3 percent from the field. Forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) nailed 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side and forward Remigijus Sugintas (200-87) accounted for 19 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Forward Marius Grigonis (194-94) came up with 16 points and 4 assists and forward Tauras Jogela (201-93) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Zalgiris-Sabonio in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Statyba moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Matinga-Juod. and Zalgiris-Sabonio. Statyba's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Radviliskis on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Statyba: D.Tarvydas 21+5reb+1ast, R.Sugintas 19+4reb+1ast, O.Varanauskas 12+7reb+2ast, G.Marciukaitis 11+3reb+4ast, M.Budzinauskas 7+1reb+1ast, V.Luksa 6+3reb+2ast
Zalgiris-Sabonio: M.Grigonis 16+4reb+4ast, T.Jogela 14+7reb+1ast, R.Jakstas 13+3reb+3ast, V.Kariniauskas 11+3reb+4ast, J.Tamulis 9+1reb+1ast, Z.Skucas 6+4reb

Nafta Universitetas - Meresta 73-67

Leader Nafta Universitetas delivered the seventeenth victory. This time they beat 12th ranked Meresta (10-15) 73-67 in Klaipeda. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-10. But Meresta won third quarter 22-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Meresta 45-26 including a 17-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Meresta was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Evaldas Lengvinas (190-89) who helped to win the game recording 23 points. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Nafta Universitetas' coach Dainius Miliunas allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) answered with 18 points and 5 rebounds and forward Audrius Maneikis (203-84, college: Motlow St. CC) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Meresta. Nafta Universitetas maintains first place with 17-8 record. Meresta lost their third game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 15 games lost. Nafta Universitetas will play against LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round. Meresta will play against Matinga-Juod. (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: E.Lengvinas 23+4reb+2ast, J.Kazakauskas 15+12reb+1ast, V.Chodosovskis 12+8reb, H.Venskus 6+3reb+4ast, V.Tarolis 6+1reb, D.Anuzis 4+3reb+1ast
Meresta: D.Griskenas 18+5reb+1ast, S.Slivka 14, A.Maneikis 12+5reb+4ast, L.Radavicius 8+4reb+3ast, D.Keburys 5+2reb, K.Artamonov 5+1reb+2ast

Gargzdai - Radviliskis 66-70

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Radviliskis (16-9) defeated on the road bottom-ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (6-19) 70-66. Gargzdai-Bremena was ahead by 4 points at the halftime before a 39-31 second half run of Radviliskis. Guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) nailed a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side and forward Audrius Mineikis (201-77) accounted for 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Radviliskis players scored in double figures. Forward Karolis Timofejevas (194-91) came up with 17 points and 6 rebounds and forward Laurynas Lucinskas (201-93) added 9 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Gargzdai-Bremena in the defeat. Radviliskis moved-up to second place, which they share with Delikatesas. Gargzdai-Bremena lost their third game in a row. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Radviliskis' next round opponent will be Statyba (#7) in Vilnius which should be theoretically an easy game. Gargzdai-Bremena will play on the road against Perlas-MRU (#11) in Vilnius.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: T.Rakauskas 17+11reb+3ast, A.Mineikis 15+8reb+4ast, E.Zukauskas 13+5reb, R.Grinius 12+2reb+2ast, L.Pipiras 6, J.Ramanauskas 5+8reb+1ast
Gargzdai: K.Timofejevas 17+6reb+2ast, L.Jonuska 10+4reb+1ast, L.Lucinskas 9+10reb+1ast, R.Jonelis 9+9reb+1ast, M.Martinkus 7+4reb+5ast, M.Grigaitis 5+4reb+1ast

Matinga-Juod. - Silute 76-71

Very expected game when 13th ranked Silute (9-16) was defeated on the road by eighth ranked Matinga-Juod. (14-11) 76-71. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Silute was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 24-15 third quarter run of Matinga-Juod.. They made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Silute turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Silute helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds for the winning side and guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) accounted for 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Matinga-Juod. players scored in double figures. Guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) came up with 18 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals and forward Egidijus Ramanauskas (202-88) added 10 points and 9 rebounds respectively for Silute in the defeat. Silute's coach Petras Jonikas tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Matinga-Juod. moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Statyba and Zalgiris-Sabonio. Silute lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the thirteenth position with 16 games lost. Matinga-Juod.'s next round opponent will be Meresta (#12) in Pakruojis which should be theoretically an easy game. Silute will play at home against Delikatesas in Joniskis.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: M.Kalvelis 16+17reb+1ast, A.Birgelis 16+5reb+4ast, A.Krivonis 13+2reb+3ast, Z.Kuklierius 12+4ast, K.Pupinis 10+9reb+4ast, A.Majauskas 5+1reb
Silute: I.Razutis 18+5reb+6ast, E.Jurkus 10+3reb, E.Ramanauskas 10+9reb+1ast, A.Kaubrys 8+10reb+1ast, V.Pancerevas 8+1reb, D.Petravicius 8+3reb+2ast

Delikatesas - S.Marciulionio 84-69

Very predictable result in Joniskis where third ranked Delikatesas (16-9) beat 14th ranked S.Marciulionio (9-16) 84-69. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Delikatesas's pressure prevailed and they won that period 25-14 extending their advantage to 15 points. Delikatesas forced 20 S.Marciulionio turnovers. Guard Vidmantas Uzkuraitis (189-85) nailed 29 points for the winning side and guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) accounted for 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Delikatesas players scored in double figures. Forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and guard Marius Pociukonis (190-82) added 8 points and 8 assists respectively for S.Marciulionio in the defeat. Delikatesas moved-up to second place, which they share with Radviliskis. S.Marciulionio at the other side dropped to the thirteenth position with 16 games lost. Delikatesas' next round opponent will be Silute (#13) on the road which should be an easy win for them. S.Marciulionio will play against ABRO-Universitetas in Siauliai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: V.Uzkuraitis 29+4reb+1ast, P.Klemas 14+5reb+5ast, A.Kvedaravicius 14+7reb+5ast, V.Jatulevicius 13+6reb+2ast, M.Keras 6+3reb+1ast, V.Volodko 4+4reb+3ast
S.Marciulionio: N.Varnelis 19+5reb+1ast, M.Paliukenas 10+2reb, E.Mockevicius 9+4reb, T.Lekunas 9+4reb, J.Elvikis 8+3reb+4ast, M.Pociukonis 8+4reb+8ast

ABRO-Univ. - Triobet 68-63

We should mention about the upset which took place in Siauliai, where higher ranked Triobet (13-12) lost to fifteenth ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-18) in a road game 63-68. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triobet. The hosts were already 14 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 22-13 Triobet's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 68-63 at the end of the game. Strangely Triobet outrebounded ABRO-Universitetas 45-31 including 16 on the offensive glass. 27 personal fouls committed by Triobet helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Center Julius Jucikas (205-89) nailed 31 points and 8 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winning side and guard Nerijus Mika (191-89) accounted for 14 points. Forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) came up with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (203-90) added 17 points respectively for Triobet in the defeat. Triobet's coach Kestutis Narusevicius tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. ABRO-Universitetas maintains fifteenth place with 7-18 record. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 12 games lost. ABRO-Universitetas' next round opponent will be higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#14) in Vilnius and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
ABRO-Univ.: J.Jucikas 31+8reb, N.Mika 14+2reb+3ast, R.Giedraitis 8+7reb+1ast, P.Rasamavicius 5+2reb, A.Kurauskas 5+9reb+3ast, E.Grikstas 3+2ast
Triobet: H.Vorotnikovas 17+3reb, M.Linkevicius 10+13reb+3ast, P.Vaitiekunas 8+9reb+1ast, A.Vasiliauskas 7+6reb+4ast, R.Juknevicius 7+4reb+1ast, T.Sebeziovas 7+3reb+1ast

Mazeikiai - LKKA-Atletas 91-72

The game between second ranked LKKA-Atletas (15-10) and sixth ranked Mazeikiai (15-10) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. LKKA-Atletas was crushed by Mazeikiai in Mazeikiai 91-72. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of LKKA-Atletas. The game without a history. Mazeikiai led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to LKKA-Atletas' 32. It was a great shooting night for Mazeikiai especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. American guard Parrish Brown (185-84, college: Maryland, agency: Hightower Law Firm) fired 28 points for the winners. Forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) chipped in 17 points (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!). Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) produced 19 points and 5 rebounds and guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) added 13 points respectively for lost side. LKKA-Atletas' coach Edas Nickus rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Mazeikiai have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with defeated LKKA-Atletas. Mazeikiai is looking forward to face Zalgiris-Sabonio (#8) in Kaunas in the next round. LKKA-Atletas will play at home against the league's leader Nafta Universitetas (#1) in Klaipeda and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Mazeikiai: P.Brown 28+2reb+1ast, J.Jurgo 17+4reb+3ast, K.Peters 12+5reb+1ast, D.Vaitelis 10+2reb, M.Stasys 8+6reb+5ast, M.Simonavicius 8+1ast
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 19+5reb+1ast, S.Vingelis 13+3reb+3ast, T.Tamosiunas 10+2reb+3ast, D.Gricius 8+2reb+1ast, P.Malasauskas 7+5reb+3ast, M.Sapiega 6+1reb+6ast

Recent transactions - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Naglis Palangos signed center Augustinas Vitas (210-C-82, college: Birm.Southern) who played in Lauvas earlier this season. Vitas, who played in the Vilnius amateur league for a while before joining Naglis, will wear a #4 shirt in Palanga.

Center averaged 7.7 points and 6.7 rebounds in seven BBL games this season for Lauvas whereas in the amateur league he gathered 23 points, 12 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 21.9 value points per game.

Lithuanian center Martynas Andriuskevicius (218-C/F-86) will be leaving the greek PAOK Thessaloniki. Even though official reasons are not disclosed, this might have to do with recent injuries and bleak performance of the Lithuanian.

He only played two EuroCup matches where he averaged 3.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1 assist. In the Greek Championship, his stats were lower - 1.6 points, 1.4 rebounds and 0.6 assist.

VTB: Weems' dunk brings Zalgiris a dramatic victory over Khimky - by Adomas Kraunevicius
B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas - BC Khimky Moscow Region 95:94

B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas Kaunas (4/5) is returning to winning ways in the VTB League. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas)' (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) fascinating dunk over two opponents brought a dramatic home victory over Rimas Kurtinaitis' (agency: Alti Sport) BC Khimky Moscow Region 95:94 (24:23, 22:25, 25:28, 24:18).

The beginning of the match was low scoring and both teams struggled offensively and after four minutes B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas led 6:2. Due to the efforts of Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) and Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) BC Khimky Moscow Region wiped out B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas lead and tied the score at 8:8 and soon gained an 11:10 lead. Thomas Kelati was unstoppable in the first quarter and after his fourth shot from beyond the arc increased BC Khimky Moscow Region lead to 21:17 but Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) scored 7 points in a row and returned the lead to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas - 24:23.

The leading team changed many times in the beginning of a close second quarter and Moscow only managed to build a bigger lead after four minutes - 34:29. After a tremendous shot by Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84, agency: Interperformances) with four minutes till halftime, B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas' deficit was reduced to 2 (38:40) and Sonny Weems recovered B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas lead after a longer period 46:45 in the last minute of the quarter. However, Thomas Kelati said the last word with yet another three pointer and led his team to halftime with 22 points and a 2 point lead - 48:46

Three minutes in the third quarter BC Khimky Moscow Region increased their lead to 5 (59:54) and made Aleksandar Trifunovic (agency: Alti Sport ) ask for a timeout after Monia's slam dunk (61:54). The timeout has worked - after Marko Popovic's raid and Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85)'s two pointer B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas cut the lead to a minimum (64:65) but Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket) responded and Marko Popovic received a technical foul which enabled BC Khimky Moscow Region to recover a 5 point lead (76:71).

The beginning of the fourth quarter was tough for B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas. After 2.5 minutes Sergey Monya (203-F-83) hit a three pointer and increased BC Khimky Moscow Region lead to 8 (82:74), but Salenga reduced the deficit to 5 midway in the fourth quarter (80:85). Three minutes left to play, Marko Popovic tied the score at 87:87 but Zoran Planinic immediately responded with a three (90:87). At the last minute of the period BC Khimky Moscow Region led 92:91 but DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) returned the lead to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas with 2 free throws (93:92). Zoran Planinic replied once again with two free throws (94:93) and B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas was left with 18 seconds for their last possession. Sonny Weems held the ball, raided into the paint with 5 seconds left to play, took off and dunked the ball over two opponents giving a 95:94 lead to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas. BC Khimky Moscow Region had nearly 4 seconds for their last possession but Zoran Planinic's last three pointer did not reach the destination.

B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas: Sonny Weems 25, Marko Popovic 19 (3/5 3pt), Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) 14, Paulius Jankunas 10, Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) and Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) 9, Milovan Rakovic 4, DeJuan Collins 3, Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances) 2.

BC Khimky Moscow Region: Thomas Kelati 31 (6/8 3pt, 6 turnovers), Zoran Planinic 14 (7 assists, 5 turnovers), Sergey Monya and Matt Nielsen 13, Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) 11 (5 ast.).

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings

1. Nafta Universitetas		17-8
2. Radviliskis		16-9
3. Delikatesas		16-9
4. Mazeikiai		15-10
5. LKKA-Atletas		15-10
6. Matinga-Juod.		14-11
7. Statyba		14-11
8. Zalgiris-Sabonio		14-11
9. Ezerunas-Karys		13-12
10. Triobet		13-12
11. Perlas-MRU		12-13
12. Meresta		10-15
13. Silute		9-16
14. S.Marciulionio		9-16
15. ABRO-Univ.		7-18
16. Gargzdai		6-19

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game

Vidmantas UZKURAITIS
  Delikate.
  (189-G-85)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	22.1
2. Vingelis, LKKA-.	21.9
3. Rakauskas, Radvili.	19.8
4. Maneikis, Meresta	18.7
5. Jucikas, AB.	17.8
6. Lengvinas, Nafta	17.6
7. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	17.0
8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.	17.0
9. Birgelis, Matinga-.	16.5
10. Vileita, Perla.	16.5

Rebounds Per Game

Arturas GUDAITIS
  Gargzdai
  (208-C-93)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	10.8
2. Mineikis, Radvilis.	8.8
3. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.	8.8
4. Urbonas, LK.	8.0
5. Jogela, Zalgir.	7.7
6. Vaitiekunas, Triob.	7.7
7. Jucikas, AB.	7.6
8. Pupinis, Matinga-.	7.4
9. Kazakauskas, Naft.	7.4
10. Kumpys, Nafta U.	7.4

Assists Per Game

Ignas RAZUTIS
  Silute
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Razutis, Silute	5.2
2. Semaska, Perla.	5.1
3. Malasauskas, LKKA.	5.1
4. Vileita, Perla.	4.6
5. Kvedaraviciu., Del.	4.6
6. Stasys, Mazeikiai	4.5
7. Kurauskas, AB.	4.5
8. Kuklierius, Mating.	4.4
9. Varanauskas, Stat.	4.4
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Tauras JOGELA
  Zalgir.
  (201-F-93)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Jogela, Zalgir.	2.6
2. Razutis, Silute	2.6
3. Slivka, Meresta	2.5
4. Brown, Mazeikiai	2.2
5. Paliukenas, S.Marc.	2.0
6. Semaska, Perla.	2.0
7. Vileita, Perla.	1.9
8. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	1.9
9. Birgelis, Matinga-.	1.8
10. Venskus, Nafta U.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Urbonas, LK.	3.1
2. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	1.7
3. Krestinin, S.Marc.	1.1
4. Jucikas, AB.	1.1
5. Pupinis, Matinga-.	1.1
6. Vaitiekunas, Triob.	1.1
7. Ramanauskas, Sil.	1.0
8. Kaubrys, Silute	0.9
9. Kymantas, Zalgir.	0.9
10. Gvazdaitis, Matin.	0.9

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

MEXICO

LNBP Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News
Pioneros - Soles 93-88 (1-0)
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Soles won third quarter 33-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Pioneros won last quarter 26-23. Pioneros outrebounded Soles 39-22 including 26 on the defensive glass. American forward Evan Brock (204-84, college: Alabama) nailed a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) accounted for 22 points and 8 rebounds. Venezuelan point guard David Cubillan (183-87, college: Marquette) came up with 24 points and Venezuelan swingman Jose Vargas (196-82) added 18 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Soles in the defeat. Four Soles players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: E.Brock 23+11reb, J.Millsap 22+4reb+2ast, L.Hickerson 22+8reb+1ast, E.Moreno 9+3reb+7ast, J.Sanchez 9+1reb, A.Garcia 4+3reb+2ast
Soles: D.Cubillan 24+2reb+3ast, J.Vargas 18+7reb+1ast, J.Griffin 14+2reb, P.Meza Rogel 14+3ast, C.Edwards 8+4reb, R.Zamora 6+2reb

Fuerza Regia - Huracanes 70-72 (0-1)
The guests were ahead by 2 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 22-14 run, which allowed them to win the game. U.S. Virgin Isl. Swingman Jason Edwin (197-81, college: Kent St.) stepped up and scored 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners and American center Elbert Fuqua (211-83, college: UTSA) chipped in 20 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Donta Smith (201-83, college: SE Illinois JC) responded with a triple-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists and the other American import forward Terrence Shannon (203-79, college: Elgin CC, agency: Paris Global Sports) scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks.
Top scorers:
Huracanes: J.Edwin 20+7reb+4ast, E.Fuqua 20+5reb+1ast, N.Colmenares 11+6reb, O.Bailey 9+5reb+1ast, R.Hornsby 8+6reb+2ast, O.Quintero 4+4reb+2ast
Fuerza Regia: T.Shannon 20+5reb+1ast, M.Mitchell 15+3reb+2ast, D.Smith 12+10reb+12ast, T.George 6+5reb, A.Izaguirre 6+1reb, A.Joseph Tyronzic 5

Toros - Halc.Xalapa 89-81 (1-0)
Halcones UV Xalapa trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-22 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 81-89 at the end of the game. Toros looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Dominican power forward Elys Manuel Guzman (206-82, college: Bemidji St.) nailed a double-double by scoring 27 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side and American swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV) accounted for 14 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 blocks. Four Toros players scored in double figures. American guard Davin White (186-81, college: CS Northridge) came up with 19 points and the other American import guard Henry Dugat (183-87, college: Baylor) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Halcones UV Xalapa in the defeat. Halcones UV Xalapa's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Toros: E.Manuel Guzman 27+11reb, J.Lopez 20+7reb, B.Angley 15+7ast, R.Rougeau 14+6reb+9ast, I.Ofoegbu 5+9reb+3ast, T.Gardner 4+1reb+1ast
Halc.Xalapa: D.White 19+3reb+2ast, J.Coronado 14+2reb, H.Dugat 12+5reb+5ast, J.Herrera 8+6reb+4ast, R.Mata 8+4reb, V.Mariscal 7+6reb+2ast

Halc.Rojos - Barreteros 103-84 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Halcones Rojos. Barreteros managed to win fourth quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Halcones Rojos made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Paul Stoll (178-85) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 4 assists. Puerto Rican point guard Carlos Rivera (187-83, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) contributed with 16 points and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Louis White (192-76, college: Voorhees) answered with 15 points and 7 rebounds and Savador Cuevas added 15 points (made all of his seven free throws) in the effort for Barreteros. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: P.Stoll 29+4reb+4ast, C.Rivera 16+4reb+5ast, L.Bethelmy 13+5reb, G.Vargas 10+2reb+5ast, J.Aubry 9+5reb+1ast, M.Ayala 5+2reb
Barreteros: S.Cuevas 15+3reb+3ast, R.Loera Almanza 15+2reb+1ast, L.White 15+7reb+1ast, R.Navarro 13+1reb+2ast, J.Habel 6+3reb, F.Fisher 6+1ast

Tampico Steals Road Win - by Carlos Chapa
In a poorly executed game with a display of missed shots, bad decisions and many turnovers, Huracanes de Tampico managed to take game one, with a final score of 72-70 against a Fuerza Regia Monterrey team that showed lack of coordination and teamwork.
Three new players arrived to the team last week replacing key starters Kleon Penn who injured his foot midseason, Jeremis Smith who was signed by Maccabi Haifa earlier this month and Chris Roberts who is having a great season so far with the Texas Rangers; Jeremy Kelly and Travis George couldn't do much to replace the former Fuerza Regia Monterrey players, Terrence Shannon was the leading scorer with 20. On the other side, Tampico has players that have been on their roster for the past two or three seasons, a key factor that can decide the outcome of the series.

Game two will be play today in Monterrey.

Terrence Shannon is a newcomer at Fuerza Regia Monterrey - by Eurobasket Center
Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) strengthened their roster with addition of 33-year old American forward Terrence Shannon (203-F-93kg-79, college: Elgin CC). In his first game he scored 20 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Huracanes 70-72. Shannon played most recently at Gimnasia-Indalo Esgr.Comodoro Rivadavia (Argentina). While playing 5 games for GECR Indalo this season he averaged 10.4ppg and 3.8rpg. Shannon is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Iran, Israel, Korea, Lebanon, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Spain and Venezuela. Shannon graduated Elgin CC in 1999 and actually missed last season. It will be his 13th (hopefully lucky) season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun sign Evan Brock - by Eurobasket Center
Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun (LNBP) signed 28-year old American forward Evan Brock (204-F-84, college: Alabama). In his first game he scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds helping his new team beat Soles 93-88. Brock played most recently at Quilmes Mar del Plata (Argentina). While playing 6 games for Quilmes MP this season he averaged 8.2ppg and 3.3rpg. Brock is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Dominican Rep., Korea and Venezuela. Brock graduated The University of Alabama in 2006 and actually missed last season. It will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Travis George joins Fuerza Regia Monterrey - by Eurobasket Center
Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) agreed terms with 27-year old Guyanese-Guyanese Travis George (206-PF-104kg-85). In his first game he scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. However his new team lost to Huracanes 70-72. George played most recently at Austin Toros (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 2 games for Austin T. this season he averaged 4.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0spg and 1.0bpg.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Jeremy Kelly is a newcomer at Fuerza Regia Monterrey - by Eurobasket Center
Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) added to their roster 30-year old American guard Jeremy Kelly (196-G-82, college: Tenn-Martin). In his first game he scored 3 points. However his new team lost to Huracanes 70-72. Kelly played most recently at U.M.F. Grindavik (Iceland). While playing 5 games for Grindavik last season he averaged 14.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.0apg and 2.0spg. He played also pro basketball in France and Iceland. Kelly graduated University of Tennessee at Martin in 2006 and actually missed last season. It will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

MONTENEGRO

Buducnost will loan Milosevic - by Darko Pekic
Nemanja Milosevic (204-F/C-87, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) does not get enough playing time this season and he is currently a bench warmer along with Nemanja Radovic (206-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Milutin Djukanovic (190-PG-91) so Buducnost decided to loan him. His next destionation will probably be the younger squad from Podgorica, Petar Mijovic 's KK Podgorica. The player has started his career in Mornar Bar junior teams and moved to United States to study and play basketball at college level. Buducnost is his first professional club.

Lazar Simonovic (185-G-82), an experienced 30 year old guard who had to sit out the first part of the season (injury problems), also joined KK Podgorica. He will be a good addition to the young squad and his experience is more than welcome in EBL.

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

NBA

NBA All-Star Game: Dwight Howard leads voting so far - by Eurobasket News
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) is the host with the most.

The NBA announced on Thursday that Howard leads all players in votes after the first returns of the balloting for the 2012 All-Star Game set for Feb. 26 in Orlando at Amway Center.

Howard, seeking his sixth all-star berth and fifth start, emerged as the overall leader with 754,737 votes, edging L.A. Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78).

Bryant leads all Western Conference players in votes with 690, 613. Forward LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) of the Miami Heat has received the third-most votes with 640, 789 while point guard Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) of the Chicago Bulls is just behind James with 640,476.

The next center closest to Howard in the Eastern Conference balloting is Chicago's Joakim Noah with just 75,038 votes, a runaway margin reflecting Howard's popularity and dominance at the position.

Howard, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and MVP runnerup to Rose last season, is no stranger to fans casting all-star ballots. He set a record in 2008-09 by receiving more than 3.1 million votes.

The second All-Star Game to be held in Orlando since 1992 carries with it a bittersweet backstory involving Howard.

Although the game is in his backyard, Howard has told the Magic he wants to be traded before the March 15 league deadline. The club is allowing his agent to speak with three teams: the Lakers, New Jersey Nets and Dallas Mavericks.

Howard, 26, now in his eighth season with the Magic, is not expected to be traded before the All-Star Game.

Andrew Bynum of the Lakers leads Western Conference centers in voting with 496, 597. Bynum has never made an All-Star team, a noteworthy development considering Bynum is rumored to be a player who could be dealt to Orlando for Howard.

Howard's trade request has not been much of a distraction for Howard and the Magic on the floor.

Heading into Thursday night's action, Howard ranked second in rebounding (14.4 per game), third in field-goal percentage (59.3) and fourth in blocked shots per game (2.2). He leads the Magic in scoring at 18.0 points per game.

Courtesy of www.orlandosentinel.com

Warriors C Brown to have surgery on torn pectoral muscle - by Eurobasket News
Kwame Brown's (6'11''-F/C-82, agency: Priority Sports) season with the Golden State Warriors is all but over.

The Warriors announced Thursday that the former No. 1 overall pick is expected to miss at least three months because of a chest injury, putting the much-maligned center's season in serious jeopardy. He will have surgery in the next few days to repair a tear in his pectoralis major, the large chest muscle that attaches to his right shoulder.

Brown could return in April if the team is in playoff contention.

'It's a blow,' Warriors general manager Larry Riley said. 'I've struggled since I've been here to try to get us a player with some size and a physical presence in the middle. And I was quite hopeful that with Andris Biedrins and Kwame Brown's presence in the middle, that we had ourselves in a good situation and that would be productive for us. But that's all kind of water under the dam now.'

Brown's injury is only the latest for a team still searching for its place under new coach Mark Jackson.

Point guard Stephen Curry is back in Charlotte, N.C., rehabbing his troubled right ankle - which he had surgery on May 25 only to sprain it at least three times already this season. He will rejoin Golden State when they play at Charlotte on Saturday, when the team hopes to have a clearer time frame for his return.

Biedrins had missed the last three games with a sprained right ankle before returning against the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. But starting small forward Dorell Wright missed the game with a bruised right knee.

'We're a no-excuse basketball team,' said Jackson, echoing his season-long mantra.

Brown's injury popped up in the fourth quarter of Golden State's 111-106 overtime victory over the Miami Heat on Tuesday night reaching in to foul Udonis Haslem. Brown had started the past three games, averaging 9.7 points and 6.3 rebounds and was among Golden State's best interior defenders.

The Washington Wizards selected Brown with the top pick in 2001, never becoming the force inside so many had projected. He played for the Lakers, Memphis, Charlotte and Detroit before signing a $7 million, one-year deal with the Warriors in December.

'Tough loss,' Jackson said. 'I'll tell you, this guy has done everything we've asked him to do. He's brought a toughness and a presence to this basketball team. Tough loss for us. Even sitting out there with his shirt on (Tuesday night), still being part of the team, he was a jewel for us.'

Ekpe Udoh and rookie Jeremy Tyler are expected to see an increase in minutes behind Biedrins.

Riley said the team already has explored options to pursue another big man since Brown's injury revealed itself in an MRI exam. After missing out on Tyson Chandler (New York) and DeAndre Jordan (Clippers) during free agency, it's unlikely Golden State will be able to land an impactful center without a blockbuster trade.

Coincidentally, the Warriors aren't the only team searching to replace an injured big man.

Atlanta's Al Horford went down with a similar injury and is expected to miss at least three months. The Hawks had been hopeful to contend in the Eastern Conference.

'Those are strange (injuries) in basketball. You just don't see that. Those are football and weight-lifting injuries,' Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said before his team faced the Warriors. 'You see a lot of defensive linemen, offensive linemen and weightlifters get those injury. The time I've been in the league, I can't remember another guy with a torn peck, it's a strange injury for our league.'

Courrtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 30.3

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	30.3
2. James, Miami Heat	29.0
3. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	25.7
4. Anthony, New Y.	25.5
5. Ellis, Golde S.	24.6
6. Love, Minnesota T.	23.6
7. Griffin, LA Clipp.	23.3
8. Bargnani, Toron.	22.3
9. Aldridge, Portland.	22.2
10. Rose, Chicago B.	20.7

Rebounds Per Game

Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.2

1. Howard, Orlando M.	15.2
2. Love, Minnesota T.	14.7
3. Bynum, LA Lakers	13.9
4. Cousins, Sacramen.	11.0
5. Gasol, Memphis G.	10.9
6. Varejao, Clevelan.	10.9
7. Griffin, LA Clipp.	10.8
8. Lee, Golde S.	10.4
9. Humphries, New J.	10.4
10. Haslem, Miami Heat	10.1

Assists Per Game

Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.1

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.1
2. Rondo, Boston C.	10.1
3. Lowry, Houston R.	9.4
4. Calderon, Toron.	9.0
5. Paul, LA Clippers	8.8
6. Rose, Chicago B.	8.6
7. Williams, New J.	8.2
8. Ellis, Golde S.	7.9
9. Rubio, Minnesot.	7.9
10. Jack, N.Orleans H.	7.9

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Paul, LA Clippers	2.8
2. Conley, Memphis G.	2.7
3. Shumpert, New Y.	2.4
4. Lowry, Houston R.	2.1
5. James, Miami Heat	2.0
6. Wade, Miami Heat	2.0
7. Allen, Memphis G.	2.0
8. Teague, Atlanta H.	2.0
9. Lawson, Denver N.	1.9
10. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

DeAndre JORDAN
  LA Clippers
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Jordan, LA Clippers	3.4
2. McGee, Washingt.	3.2
3. Gasol, Memphis G.	2.7
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.2
5. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.2
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.1
7. Wade, Miami Heat	1.9
8. Stiemsma, Boston	1.9
9. Gortat, Phoenix	1.8
10. Jefferson, Utah	1.8

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Philadelph.76		7-3
2. New York K.		6-5
3. Boston C.		4-5
4. Toronto R.		4-7
5. New Jersey N.		2-9
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		10-2
2. Indiana P.		7-3
3. Cleveland C.		5-5
4. Milwaukee B.		4-6
5. Detroit P.		2-9
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		8-3
2. Orlando M.		8-3
3. Atlanta H.		8-4
4. Charlotte B.		2-9
5. Washington W.		1-9
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		10-2
2. Portland TB		7-3
3. Denver N.		7-4
4. Utah Jazz		6-4
5. Minnesota T.		3-7
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		8-4
2. LA Clippers		5-3
3. Phoenix Suns		4-6
4. Sacramento K.		4-7
5. Golde State W.		3-7
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		7-4
2. Dallas M.		6-5
3. Memphis G.		4-6
4. Houston R.		3-7
5. N.Orleans H.		3-7

Only 9 games to go... - by Alex Yam
The CBA season is in its homestretch, as there are about 9 games to go, plus or minus for each team. Clearly Guangdong is the top team, as they have amassed a 4 game lead on surprise 2nd place Dongguan, who started the season 0-4, Beijing who was red hot at 14-0, have now lost 8 of their last 9, and are feeling the effects of injuries, especially at the guard position. Marbury is putting the team on his back, but can not do it himself clearly, as the loss HSUEH-LIN LEE, has really had a negative impact on the team.

Xinjiang who made a huge offseason splash when they signed former #1 pick, Kenyon Martin, has stumbled to a 11-10 record and in danger of missing the playoffs. Their biggest nemesis, was an preseason injury to star shooting guard Quincy Douby, and it is now showing in the standings. A team that started out with Martin and Douby is now closing the season with Tim Pickett and Gani Lawal, as Martin was jettisoned back to the states, and Douby suffered a season ending injury before playing a regular season game. This team however, still boasts a deep and talented roster of Chinese players, and could make a surprise run if they are to able to sneak into the playoffs, and avoid a 1st round matchup with Guangdong, who have NBA big man James Singleton who last season along with Douby led Xinjiang to a 32-1 record, before falling to Gaungdong in the CBA finals. Singleton now shares the floor with NBA guard Aaron Brooks, and the familiar cast of Chinese stars, on Guangdong. Singleton is having a better all around season statistically and it is showing on the floor.

Dongguan, who has been the hottest team in the league, has put together a very impressive run, as they have won 15 of their last 19, and been as impressive as any team in the league. The team is led by scoring guard Josh Akognon, and versatile big man, Shavlik Randolph.

The seasons biggest surprise has been Shanghai who before yesterdays loss to Liaoning, strung together 7 straight wins. The leagues top defensive team, also is one of the teams in the league that spent the least amount of money as far as imports salaries are concerned, are led by 1st year Coach Dan Pannagio, who almost certainly will be a candidate for Coach of the year.

Qingdao has also been impressive in their turnaround, led by star combo guard Lester Hudson, who teamed with Marcus Haislip and won Guangdongs 7th CBA Championship last season. Hudson, who had a triple double in a romp over SBS Fuijian yesterday has quietly put together an MVP type season, and has his team winning and contending for a playoff position.

Shanxi Zhongyu is perhaps the most night and day team, as they tend to struggle against the leagues worse teams. They are led by arguably the top 1-2 import combo is Marcus Williams and Charles Gaines, they have the team contending for a playoff spot as well. They have the pieces in place, so a entry into the top 8 is still in the cards.

Jilin has become a dangerous team as well, since they have 3 imports, much like Qingdao, Tianjin and Fujian, but they boast the top one, in Osama Daghlas, who consistently puts up 'import' like numbers. Jilin is flanked by scoring machine Cartier Martin as the wing, and perennial CBA big man Jameel Watkins, who seems to have found his stride. SBS Fuijan was playing very well early but now it seems like they are sliding, as they are led by all world big man, Will McDonald, who some consider the top big man in the league and rebounding machine Zaid Abbas and shooter Anthony Roberson.

Jiangsu has been a disappointment, as they have gone from a semi finalist to in danger of not making the playoffs and joining the 3rd import lottery. They have strung up 3 wins in a row including wins vs Xinjiang, and Shanxi, and a romp over Bayi.

Rasheed Wallace mulling over NBA return - by Eurobasket News
Rasheed Wallace (6'10''-F/C-75, college: N.Carolina) is contemplating a comeback to the NBA, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Wallace, who retired after 15 seasons in 2010, has been working out and probing some close league friends about possible destinations to sign for the rest of the season, sources said.

At 6-foot-11, Wallace, 37, had been one of the most versatile and talented power forwards of his era. One league source who has talked with Wallace recently describes him as serious about a return to the NBA this season. Nevertheless, no teams contacted by Yahoo! Sports reported that they had any contact with Wallace, or his representative.

When reached on Friday, Wallaces agent, Bill Strickland, would only tell Yahoo! Sports Marc Spears: As a veteran player, [Wallace] knows what it takes to be reinstated.

Wallace holds appeal for several contending teams, but all wonder about his shape and conditioning after sitting out 18 months. Wallace played 79 regular season games for the Celtics in his final year, but the organization never felt he truly got into playing shape until the playoff run to the NBA Finals in 2010. In a limited role, several GMs told Yahoo! they still believe his scoring and defending ability would probably be better than anyone else available to them.

One NBA GM with potential interest in signing Wallace said, Id be worried about his conditioning in a condensed season.

In his 15 seasons with Washington, Portland, Atlanta, Detroit and Boston, Wallace averaged 14.6 points and 6.7 rebounds.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Denver's Andre Miller not thrilled with role, Gallinari would like to stay with Nuggets - by Eurobasket News
Denver Nuggets point guard Andre Miller (6'3''-PG-76, college: Utah) regularly was a starter in his first 12 NBA seasons. He's not too happy with that changing.

Miller, who becomes a free agent after the season, said before Wednesday's game against New Jersey that he would 'probably not' return to the Nuggets next season if the role is to back up Ty Lawson. But Miller wouldn't completely rule that out as a possibility if no better situations were available.

'At this point in my career, I don't see myself as a backup,' Miller, who entered the NBA in 1999, said in an interview with FOXSports.com. 'For 13 years, I wasn't a backup before. This is a short season (due to the lockout), so I'll deal with it. But I don't see myself as a backup at this point in my career. I don't see that.'

Interestingly, Miller did start his first game of the season against the Nets because Lawson was out with a right foot strain. But Lawson's injury isn't expected to sideline him for long, and he could be back starting Friday against Miami.

Another Denver player, though, does want to stick around. Forward Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group), who can become a restricted free agent next summer, told FOXSports.com his desire is to re-sign with the Nuggets.

Miller, who was Denver's starting point from 2002-06, was reacquired on draft night last June. There has been talk of Miller, 35, serving as a mentor for Lawson, 24, a third-year man. But Miller said Lawson doesn't need that.

'Ty, he's worked hard. He's had his mentor with Chauncey Billups,' Miller said of the point guard who was dealt last February from Denver, which led to Lawson becoming the starter. 'Why would they need me to come in and put in my two cents?'

Miller said he hasn't spoke of not liking his backup role to Nuggets coach George Karl, and that he doesn't plan to have such a conversation. Karl said this was the first he'd heard of Miller's disappointment.

'I'm glad he's proud of himself and he wants to play,' Karl said. 'But I think this still is the best opportunity for him.'

One thing is for sure. Gallinari believes the Nuggets provide him the best opportunity.

'I'd like to be here,' Gallinari said before Wednesday's game 'If I can play here, it'd be great. ... If they give me an extension (before next summer), it's good. If not, I will wait until after the season.'

Gallinari paid close attention to Nuggets guard Arron Afflalo re-signing as a restricted free agent before this season.

'If I can be the same that (Afflalo) did, that would be great to play in a system you really like a lot,' Gallinari said.

Miller, though, is less enthralled. He entered Wednesday averaging 28.1 minutes, in line to be his lowest in a season since his rookie year with Cleveland in 1999-2000, and 9.8 points, which would be a career low.

'My goal is to play 15 to 17 years,' Miller said. 'I think I've been pretty competitive.'

Miller didn't believe there would have been a battle for the starting job with Lawson had a lockout not significantly shortened training camp. But Miller said he plans to have a good attitude and will 'support' Lawson during the 66-game season.

'He is the guy, that's pretty clear,' Miller said of Lawson. 'I understand why they brought me here, so I'm not going to dwell on this, 66 games. Move past and leave it alone.'

Miller didn't totally rule out re-signing next season with Denver. But he said that's not his preference.

'Probably not,' Miller said of re-signing with the Nuggets. 'It depends on the situation. It's just something that you have to get used to. I don't want to get used to it. But if the situation says that I have to stay here for a couple of years, cool. But that's just something that I'd have to worry about later on.''

Courtesy of www.foxsportsflorida.com

Hawks center Horford to miss 3-4 months with injury - by Eurobasket News
Atlanta Hawks All-Star center Alfred Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) will miss three-to-four months with a torn pectoral muscle in his left shoulder, the National Basketball Association (NBA) team said on Thursday.

Horford, Atlanta's third-leading scorer, suffered the injury in Wednesday's 96-84 road loss to the Indiana Pacers and the Hawks said he will seek a second opinion before deciding whether to undergo surgery.

'We are very disappointed for Al and our team and we wish him the best as he moves forward in the rehabilitation process,' Hawks General Manager Rick Sund said in a statement.

The 25-year-old center, taken by Atlanta with the third overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft, has averaged 12.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 blocks so far this season.

Wednesday's loss dropped the Hawks to 7-4, one game behind Southeast division-leading Miami Heat.

Courtesy of http://ca.reuters.com

Carmelo Anthony injured in Knicks' 94-83 loss to Grizzlies - by Eurobasket News
The Knicks had trouble scoring when Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) was in the game, and when they lost him with a sprained ankle in the third quarter, they lost all hope of extending their winning streak to five games.

Their offense was awful and they didnt play with nearly the same defensive intensity as they had been lately. They trailed by as many as 25 points and suffered a lopsided 94-83 defeat to the Grizzlies on Thursday night at FedEx Forum.

Anthonys health is a bigger concern. He also sustained a sprained left wrist in the first quarter that rendered his hand numb for most of the night.

X-rays on Anthonys ankle were negative and hes listed as day to day. But he was limping after the game and said hes concerned about the ankle. He didnt sound overly optimistic about playing in Saturdays game at Oklahoma City.

Well see how I feel [today], Anthony said. Im a little sore now. Ankles sore. Wrist is definitely sore. Im more concerned with getting my ankle right. I can deal with my wrist. Hopefully, Ill be all right.

The past seven days have been physically rough for Anthony.

He hurt his back last Friday in Washington, which ultimately led to pain in his hip and right knee. For the most part, Anthonys shot has been off since then, but hes played through the pain.

Now he has two new sprains. Taking time off, especially in this condensed lockout-shortened season, might be a good thing. If he doesnt play Saturday, hell have three days off until the Knicks (6-5) play again.

Im beat up, Anthony said. I want to see how I feel by Saturday. Im not going to force it. If my ankles not right by Saturday, then Ill be looking at Monday.

Im working around the clock trying to get back. Im not taking too much time off, but I want to be healthy at the same time.

Anthony, who scored 14 points in 20 minutes Thursday, is the Knicks best offensive player and has carried them in many fourth quarters. The team was completing a home-road, back-to-back, and had no one who could pick up the scoring against Memphis.

Amare Stoudemire had a tough night. He was called for two fouls in the first 98 seconds and never got in a rhythm. He finished 1-for-7 with six points, three rebounds and four fouls. He didnt play the fourth quarter.

He needs to get more involved and he needs to get himself more involved, pick and rolls and different things, Knicks coach Mike DAntoni said. Those things well talk to him about, especially if Melos out; theyll come natural. We cant lose Amare. Thats for sure. We need his scoring.

Rookie guard Iman Shumpert also had a bad night, as he tried to do too much offensively and took many long jumpers early in the shot clock. He missed 15 of 20 shots and ended the night with 12 points.

He got a little loose, DAntoni said.

The Knicks shot 31-for-83 (37.3 percent) and didnt score more than 20 points in each of the first three quarters. They put up 31 in the fourth when the game was out of reach.

They were down, 53-40, when Anthony left with 10:05 remaining in the third. The deficit grew to 71-47 on a three-pointer by Rudy Gay with 1:29 left in the quarter. Gay set up that possession by stuffing a Tyson Chandler dunk attempt on the Knicks prior trip.

I just thought emotionally we didnt come out with the right energy, DAntoni said. They jumped on us. We tried to resolve the problem one-on-one everybody and it didnt work out.

Courtesy of www.northjersey.com

Latest games (5): Howard breaks FT attempts mark, Magic top Warriors - by Eurobasket News
Golde State W. - Orlando M. 109-117
Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) broke Wilt Chamberlain's nearly 50-year-old NBA record for most free throw attempts in a game, making 21 of 39 in the Orlando Magic's 117-109 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. The Warriors hacked Howard intentionally throughout, sending the notoriously poor shooter to the line in record-setting fashion. Chamberlain shot 34 for the Philadelphia Warriors against St. Louis on Feb. 22, 1962. Howard finished with 45 points and 23 rebounds, and Hidayet Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) scored 20 points to propel the Magic to their third straight victory. Monta Ellis (6'4''-G-85) had 30 points and 11 assists and David Lee added 26 points and 12 rebounds for the short-handed Warriors, playing without starters Stephen Curry and Dorell Wright. The Hack-a-Howard routine reached a whole new level. Howard had never shot more than 24 free throws in a game - which he had four times previously - and fouled so early. Certainly, nothing compared to the Warriors' ways. Howard eclipsed his old mark with 2:09 remaining in the third quarter, getting hacked and held intentionally at the end of each quarter with mixed results. If nothing else, Golden State rookie coach Mark Jackson's strategy slowed down the pace and refused to let the Magic's potent shooters find their rhythm. Howard tied Chamberlain's record when Andris Biedrins fouled him - and fouled out - with 7:17 remaining in the fourth quarter, making 1 of 2 to give the Magic a 93-92 lead. Howard has shot just below 60 percent at the line for his career. Golden State almost managed an upset behind the tactic. Klay Thompson put the Warriors ahead 107-106 on a 3-pointer with a little less than 3 minutes remaining, only to see Howard respond on the other end quickly. Howard floated a hook shot and then made a free throw to put the Magic back in front by two. After Ellis made a runner to even the score, Howard grabbed an offensive rebound on the next possession and finished strong at the rim while getting fouled by Lee - who also fouled out on the play. Howard made the free throw to complete a three-point conversion. Von Wafer finally sealed Orlando's victory with a 3-point with 36.9 seconds to play that stretched the Magic's lead to six, blowing a kiss to the crowd afterward. Jackson could only shake his head. The undersized Warriors sent double-teams and traps at Howard and frustrated the All-Star center with fouls from the start. Jeremy Tyler intentionally fouled Howard with 8.1 seconds remaining in the first quarter, a tactic some teams utilize late in games with the center's well-documented struggles at the stripe, but rarely seen so early. Howard made 1 of 2. After scoring the first nine points of the game, Golden State relied on the cushion for most of the first half. Nate Robinson's running layup pushed the Warriors ahead 44-3, relying on a surprisingly strong defensive effort. And fouls. Three more times in the second quarter, Jackson called for his players to intentional hack Howard as soon as he crossed half court. Howard was 5 of 6 from the line during that stretch. Orlando closed the half with a flurry of free throws and layups, part of an 18-9 run that sliced Golden State's lead to only four at the break. Howard shot 9 for 18 from the line in the first half. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Milwaukee B. - Detroit P. 102-93
Brandon Jennings (6'0''-PG-89) scored 27 points and Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) added 25 to help the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Detroit Pistons 102-93 on Thursday night. The game was only the second in the shot-clock era without a missed free throw. The Bucks were 17 of 17 and the Pistons 24 of 24. The other game was Dec. 22, 2000, when Atlanta and Toronto hit all 16 free throws shot in the game. The Bucks improved to 4-0 at home and 4-6 overall, while the Pistons dropped to 2-9 with their sixth straight loss and fifth in a row on the road. Detroit last lost six straight from March 13-April 3, 2010. Bucks coach Scott Skiles became the 39th coach in NBA history to reach 400 victories. He is 400-388. A game after scoring a season-high 34 points, Jackson was 9 of 17 from the field, and had six rebounds and six assists. Rookie Jon Leuer, making his first start for the Bucks, added 15 points and six rebounds. Greg Monroe led the Pistons with a career-high 32 points and had 16 rebounds. Rookie point guard Brandon Knight added 20 points. Detroit's Tayshaun Prince hit a 3-pointer from the corner to cut it to 94-89 with 2:36 remaining, then made a jumper with 1:23 left to trim the lead to three. Jennings hit a driving layup with 1:08 remaining. Prince missed a shot from the corner, and Leuer scored on a dunk off a pass from Jackson with 25.6 seconds to go to give the Bucks a 98-91 lead. The Pistons went on an 8-0 run late in the second quarter to grab a 41-40 lead when Prince hit a short jumper with 2:12 remaining. It was the Pistons' first lead in more than 150 minutes and nearly 13 quarters. Detroit last led 30-27 against New York with 10:56 left in the second quarter Saturday. The Bucks responded with 12-2 run, with Carlos Delfino hitting a 3-pointer at the buzzer to make it 52-43. *Courtesy of www.wfmj.com

Memphis G. - New York K. 94-83
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) scored a season-high 26 points and the Memphis Grizzlies beat New York 94-83 on Thursday night to end the Knicks' winning streak at four games. The Knicks played most of the second half without scoring leader Carmelo Anthony after he sprained his right ankle early in the third period. He didn't return and X-rays were negative. Gay made 11 of 16 shots to help the Grizzlies snap a three-game losing streak and improve to 4-6. O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) scored 18 points, also a season high, on 7-of-12 shooting and had eight rebounds. Tony Allen added 12 points, and Marc Gasol had 10 points and 12 rebounds. Anthony and Bill Walker each scored 14 points to lead the Knicks (6-5). Rookie guard Iman Shumpert had 12 points, but was 5 of 20 from the field. Amare Stoudemire, saddled with foul problems early, scored a season-low six points, converting only one of his seven shots. New York set a season low with its 83 points. Memphis had a comfortable lead in the fourth period, but New York reserves went 6 of 9 from 3-point range late to make it closer at the end. Memphis already had a double-digit lead in the first half, then outscored the Knicks 26-14 in the third quarter, at one point stretching the lead to 25 points. The Knicks struggled from the field from the start, missing eight of their first nine shots. Stoudemire picked up a couple of early fouls, and Memphis took the lead getting out on the break. Gay was 5 of 6 early, including a couple of dunks, for 12 first-quarter points. Memphis' lead reached 12 points in the first half and the Grizzlies eventually carried a 49-38 advantage into the dressing room. Gay missed only one of his nine shots for 18 points in the half, while Mayo added 10 points. Anthony had 12 points to lead the Knicks, who shot 33 percent (15 of 45) in the half, primarily on rookie Shumpert going 3 of 15 from the field. New York's shooting woes continued after halftime. The Knicks connected on 5 of 19 shots in the third period, helping Memphis take a 75-52 lead into the final quarter. At that point, New York was shooting 31 percent, Anthony was in the locker room and Stoudemire had headed to the bench with six points, the first time he has not reached double figures in a game this season. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Phoenix Suns - Cleveland C. 90-101
Prize rookie Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) scored a season-high 26 points and Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina) matched his season high with 23, helping the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Phoenix Suns 101-90 on Thursday night. Irving, who played only 11 games at Duke before being drafted first overall, topped his previous high of 21. Anderson Varejeo contributed 15 rebounds for the Cavaliers. Steve Nash led six Suns players in double figures with 16 points, becoming the 15th active player to reach 16,000 points. He also had 15 assists. Marcin Gortat had 14 points and 12 rebounds for Phoenix. Michael Redd, playing his first game for Phoenix, had 12 points in 19 minutes. Irving put on a remarkable performance in the first half. With the Cavaliers trailing 40-34, he scored 12 consecutive points in 2:51, including two 3s, capping a 14-0 run and lifting Cleveland to a 46-40 advantage. Irving did his damage against Nash, the league's two-time Most Valuable Player. After Irving's offensive outburst, Jamison took charge of the offense. He scored seven straight Cleveland points, helping the Cavaliers to a 56-48 halftime advantage. Irving finished the half with 16 points and Jamison had 13. The Cavaliers, in the midst of a tough trip, played with extreme energy in the first half, outrunning and outrebounding the Suns. Redd made his Suns' debut early in the first period, replacing Grant Hill, who had to leave with a bloody nose. Redd hit his first two shots, both 3s, then finished the half by shooting 3 for 6 in 10:55. Redd, signed recently as a free agent had not played since last April, but only sparingly with the Milwaukee Bucks. Because of two knee surgeries, he had played in only 61 games in the past three seasons. Hill later returned, but experienced soreness in his right knee and did not play in the second half. Both teams continued to fire up 3-pointers in the first half, the Suns taking 14 from long range and the Cavaliers 11. Jamison and Irving continued to spearhead the Cavaliers' offense in the third period. Jamison had 10 points in the quarter and Irving had six as Cleveland retained its eight-point lead, 79-71. The Suns never got closer than six points in the fourth quarter. The teams had battled to a 30-30 tie in the first period, the 30 points for Cleveland representing the most against the Suns in the opening quarter this season. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Atlanta H. - Charlotte B. 111-81
Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) scored 30 points, Joe Johnson (6'7''-G-81, college: Arkansas) added 23 and the Atlanta Hawks won their first game without All-Star center Al Horford, routing the Charlotte Bobcats 111-81 on Thursday night. The Hawks learned earlier in the day that Horford, a leader on and off the court, will miss at least three months after tearing the pectoral muscle in his left shoulder going for a rebound the previous night at Indiana. Knowing they'll be expected to take on an even larger load with Horford sidelined, Smith and Johnson came through big time against the hapless Bobcats, who lost their fifth in a row and dropped to 2-9. The Hawks dominated on the boards, outrebounding Charlotte 55-30. Byron Mullens led the Bobcats with 21 points in his first career start. Charlotte never led in the game, and the Hawks steadily pulled away from a 19-all tie late in the first quarter. Jeff Teague hit a 3-pointer with 0.2 seconds left in the opening half, sending Atlanta to the locker room with a 57-47 edge. The Bobcats never seriously threatened the rest of the way. After Gerald Henderson swished a jumper that made it 59-51, the Hawks led by double figures the rest of the way. Even without Horford, the Hawks dominated the boards to improve to 8-4. Most telling was the commanding 20-4 edge at the offensive end, setting up Atlanta for 22 second-chance points. The Bobcats had just six. Playing without his so-called ''bash brother,' Smith still crashed the boards for a game-high 13 rebounds. Zaza Pachulia also had a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Everyone, in fact, got in on the act. Vladimir Radmanovic had eight boards, while Joe Johnson and reserve Ivan Johnson chipped in with seven apiece. Nothing went right for the Bobcats, who didn't have anyone with more than six rebounds and shot just 1 of 8 from 3-point range. The Hawks had their biggest lead at the end, after both teams had cleared their benches. Thirty-seven-year-old Jerry Stackhouse even had a rim-hanging dunk in the final minute, leading to chants of 'Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!' from what remained of the sparse crowd generously listed at 10,597. The Hawks had three other players in double figures: Teague with 16 points, Ivan Johnson 12 and Willie Green 11. By comparison, Henderson, with 16, was the only other player with at least 10 points for Charlotte. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

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

NBLCANADA

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings

1. London L.		16-4
2. Quebec K.		15-8
3. Halifax R.		13-5
4. St.John M.R.		9-11
5. Summerside S.		8-12
6. Oshawa P.		8-16
7. Moncton M.		4-17

Latest games - by Eurobasket Center
Summerside S. - Oshawa P. 122-131 OT
The Summerside Storm wanted to welcome the Oshawa Power to EastLink Arena by treating them to a loss, but things didn't quite go according to plan. The Power defeated the Storm 131-122 in overtime on Thursday night in front of an announced 2,008 fans, who braved the rough winter weather in Summerside. The teams were tied at 113 after four quarters, but Oshawa overpowered the host team in the five-minute extra frame. Among the keys to the Power's success was their hot shooting from three-point range, most notably from Morgan Lewis, who shot 5-for-7 from beyond the arc en route to a game-high 38 points and 10 assists. 'The way Oshawa shot the basketball tonight (Thursday), I was surprised we were up as much as we were in that game,' said Storm head coach Joe Salerno. 'A team that shoots 46 per cent from three - I mean, they shot from three better than we did field-goal percentage-wise. I told the guys this is one of those games I don't think we lost, but they (Oshawa) won. 'I didn't think we played bad tonight and, to be honest, I don't think we were as bad defensively as the 130 points that were put up.' This was the third meeting between the two teams this season, but the first time Oshawa has visited the Storm. The loss dropped Summerside to 8-13 (won-lost), keeping them fifth in the National Basketball League of Canada. Oshawa now sits right behind them in sixth at 8-16. The Power shot 48 per cent from the field Thursday night while the Storm shot 38 per cent, despite being neck-and-neck with Oshawa for most of the game. Summerside led 51-48 at the half. The Storm extended their lead to double digits in the fourth quarter, but Oshawa clawed its way back to within striking distance in the final minutes. Summerside's Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati) went to the free-throw line with his team up 112-111, but made just one of two shots. Seconds later, Oshawa's Marcus Johnson scored the biggest of his 23 points on a quick drive past the Storm's defence for an easy dunk to tie the game and send it to OT. The Power would go on to dominate the extra five minutes, with Lewis capping off his big night with back-to-back three pointers. 'Morgan Lewis was virtually unstoppable tonight,' said Salerno. 'It didn't matter if we switched on him, it didn't matter who we had on him, he had a hell of a game.' Williams added some late free throws to his 15-point, 12-rebound night to make it 126-120. But with time winding down, Summerside was forced to foul immediately, and Oshawa's players closed things out from the line. Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.) added 25 points, and Omari Johnson (6'9''-F, college: Oregon St.) sank 19 for the Power. Summerside point guard Al Stewart (5'10''-G-83, college: Drake) made a surprise return from injury, and contributed the team's first-ever triple-double with a game-high 28 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists. The Storm visit the Quebec Kebs on Sunday, before returning to EastLink Arena to host Oshawa again on Friday, Jan. 20. *Courtesy of www.theguardian.pe.ca

Moncton M. - Halifax R. 91-101
A fast start lifted the Halifax Rainmen to a 101-91 road victory over the Moncton Miracles on Tuesday night in the National Basketball League of Canada. Joey Haywood (6'1''-G) dropped in 23 points, Tyrone Levett (6'5''-F-80, college: Alabama St.) added 18 and Lawrence Wright chipped in with 16 as the Rainmen improved to 13-5 and bounced back from a 97-87 loss in London on Saturday that snapped their franchise-record nine-game winning streak. 'It wasn't pretty at times but, hey, we got the win,' said Haywood, the former Saint Mary Huskies star who had 10 points in the fourth quarter and turned in his best offensive performance since a 26-point outing on Nov. 18 against the Saint John Mill Rats. 'We came together again. We lost in London but we focused on defence and that's what wins games.' The six-foot-one point guard from Vancouver got the visitors off on the right foot by scoring the first hoop of the game. Halifax sprinted out to a 17-4 start in which they hit seven of 10 shots in the opening five minutes. The Rainmen led 23-14 after one quarter and were ahead 45-35 at the break after a ragged first half in which the two clubs combined to make 26 turnovers. In the third period, Darrin Dorsey and Justin Johnson scored six points each and both teams got their offences going, splitting 66 points to leave Halifax sporting a 78-68 advantage. Haywood also hit the first shot of the fourth and Halifax quickly opened a 13-point spread. But the Miracles, who to that point hadn't gotten any closer than five since the game was a couple of minutes old, clawed their way back. They manufactured an 8-0 run capped by a Trayvon Lathan basket with 2:50 remaining that reduced their deficit to four at 93-89. 'We didn't let it faze us,' said Haywood, whose team squandered an 18-point lead Saturday in London. 'You know, that's basketball. It's a game of runs, it's up and down, but we came together as a team and then we just pulled it out. . . . We focused mentally and we just got to our jobs.' The Rainmen closed out the victory by scoring their final eight points from the charity stripe and limited Moncton to just one more hoop. Both teams shot 39 per cent overall from the floor, with the Rainmen struggling with a 4-for-17 slate from three-point range that sparkled in comparison to the Miracles' wretched 2-of-21 effort behind the arc. Moncton wound up with 27 turnovers and the Rainmen 25. The cellar-dwelling Miracles fell to 4-16 but Haywood agreed they're a vastly different squad from the one that started the season with 11 straight losses, including two at the hands of the Rainmen at the Metro Centre. Since their last meeting on Dec. 4, Moncton has traded for forward Akeem Wright (6'6''-G-84, college: Kansas St.), the Miracles' top scorer Tuesday night with 20 points, and signed Lathan, a free agent who spent the second half of last season with the Rainmen. 'They're a good team now and they played tough,' Haywood said. After the Rainmen's blazing start, Halifax outscored the Miracles by one point in the second quarter (22-21) and the two teams were even in both the third (33-33) and fourth (23-23) quarters. Boubacar Coly scored 16 points and had a game-high 11 boards for the Miracles. Lathan finished with 11 points. *Courtesy of http://thechronicleherald.ca

London L. - Moncton M. 124-113
The Moncton Miracles lost to the London Lightning at the John Labatt Centre with a final score of 124-113. The Lightning had an early control of the game and ended up the first quarter up 43-19. Moncton managed to put up a fight against the top ranked London team outscoring them in the second and fourth quarter but the push was not enough to make up for the first quarter. Akeem Wright was the top scorer for the Miracles with 22 points followed by Jazzmarr Ferguson with 19 points. DeAnthony Bowden (6'1''-G-80, college: Creighton) led the way for the Lightning with 26 points. Tim Ellis pitched in with another 20 points for London. The Miracles play their next game on the road against the Saint John Mill Rats on Sunday, January 22nd, 2012. Game time is 2:00pm at the Harbour Station. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

NCAA1

Arizona outlasts Oregon State 81-73 in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Kyle Fogg (6'3''-G) had 23 points and scored on a hard drive in overtime that nearly set off a brawl, lifting Arizona to a hard-fought 81-73 win over Oregon State on Thursday night.

Oregon State (11-6, 1-4 Pac-12) forced overtime after Ahmad Starks (5'9''-PG) scored 10 of his 14 points in the final 3:16 of regulation. Arizona (12-5, 3-1) took control in overtime, going up six after a rebound slam by Nick Johnson and Fogg's drive with 1:12 left.

Fogg ran into Oregon State's Jared Cunningham while celebrating the basket, setting off a near melee that had players from both teams pushing each other and Wildcats coach Sean Miller shoving his players back to the bench.

Arizona's Kyryl Natyazhko (6'11''-C-90) and Oregon State's Joe Burton (6'7''-F/C) were ejected for leaving the bench. Fogg fouled out after being hit with a technical foul and Cunningham was also gone after getting personal and technical fouls.

Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Hollins leads Minnesota past No. 7 Indiana 77-74 - by Eurobasket News
Jordan Hulls (6'0''-G) appeared to be in a daze as he answered questions about a home loss for the first time this season.

Austin Hollins (6'4''-G) scored a career-high 18 points to help Minnesota beat No. 7 Indiana 77-74 on Thursday night. Indiana's Christian Watford could have tied the score but he missed a 3-pointer in the closing seconds.

Hulls couldn't believe it even came down to that for his Hoosiers.

'We didn't have our edge,' he said. 'Didn't get stops that we needed. Let them get way too many open shots. Didn't take away things that we needed to. Just very poor defensively.'

Rodney Williams (6'7''-F) scored 14 points and Julian Welch (6'3''-G) added 10 for the Golden Gophers (13-5, 1-4 Big Ten), who had lost four straight. Minnesota shot 6 of 13 on 3-pointers in the first half to take the lead, then maintained it by scoring in the paint and grabbing 12 offensive rebounds in the second half.

The rebounding was of particular concern because Indiana's players consider it an effort statistic.

'We've got to come up with those big team rebounds at the end,' Hulls said.

Indiana freshman Cody Zeller (6'11''-F) matched a season high with 23 points for the Hoosiers (15-2, 3-2). Hulls scored 13, Will Sheehey (6'6''-G/F) 12 and Victor Oladipo 10 for Indiana, which had won three straight.

The Hoosiers were 11-0 at home, including victories over then-No. 1 Kentucky and then-No. 2 Ohio State.

'That's deflating for them to have that many offensive rebounds,' Zeller said. 'We just need to do the little things. That's all toughness.'

Minnesota had been close in three of its four Big Ten losses. The Gophers lost in overtime at Illinois, by five at Michigan and by two at home against Iowa.

'It's a big win,' Minnesota guard Joe Coleman said. 'We really had nothing to lose here. We just had to come in here and be aggressive, be confident in our play and hopefully come out with a win, and we were able to do that.'

Minnesota seemingly had Thursday's game under control with a six-point lead and the ball in the final minute. But Zeller stole the inbounds pass, and a three-point play by Oladipo cut Minnesota's lead to 71-68 with 40 seconds to play.

Coleman calmly sank two free throws with 39 seconds remaining before Sheehey drained a 3-pointer at the other end to cut Minnesota's lead to 73-71 with 30 seconds left.

Coleman was fouled with 28.6 seconds left, and again, he made both foul shots.

Zeller scored and was fouled with 17.3 seconds left. His free throw cut Minnesota's lead to 75-74.

Hollins made a pair of free throws with 15.1 seconds left. Watford missed a 3-pointer and Minnesota rebounded. Welch missed a pair of free throws with 2 seconds left to give the Hoosiers one last shot. Watford's pass was intercepted by Maverick Ahanmisi at halfcourt, and time expired.

Minnesota led 37-34 at halftime, then scored the first six points of the second half to make Indiana's fans restless. A jumper and a putback by Sheehey brought the crowd back into the game, but Minnesota, which softened up Indiana's defense with the 3-point shot in the first half, resorted to attacking the rim in the second. A layup by Williams increased Minnesota's lead to 51-40.

Indiana went on a 7-2 run to cut Minnesota's lead to 53-47. The Gophers led 68-62, and Indiana's crowd was back into the game before Minnesota worked the clock, then Ralph Sampson III drained a baseline jumper to push the lead to eight points with 1:43 to play, setting up the wild finish.

'We've got to play a lot better defense and let that create our offense,' Hulls said. 'We've got to be mature enough and have that edge. When shots are not falling, create edge another way.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

No.8 Duke holds on for 61-58 win over No.16 Virginia - by Eurobasket News
Virginia had two chances to send Thursday's game against Duke to overtime, missing two open 3-pointers in the final seconds to allow the Blue Devils to hold on for a 61-58 victory at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

With the way the Blue Devils clamped down on the Cavaliers over the previous 19:50 of the second half and asserted itself on the defensive end, maybe it was fates way of winking at the oft-maligned Duke defense for a job well done.

The Blue Devils may not have challenged Virginias final two opportunities the way they wanted, but they did hold the Cavaliers to 29.4 percent shooting after halftime while forcing Virginia to miss all 11 of its 3-point attempts.

I dont think that game came down to that last shot, Dukes Austin Rivers said. I think that game came down to rebounds, and the big shots we made and the defensive stops we made and the emphasis we had on (Mike) Scott in the second half.

I think thats what won us the game, not that last shot.

With the score close at halftime after a monster first half by Virginias Mike Scott (6'8''-F-88) he had 16 points and finished with 23 points and nine rebounds Duke used a 7-0 run early in the second half to break a 38-38 tie.

Duke had its biggest lead of the game nine points after Seth Curry (6'2''-G-90) made a layup and was fouled with a little more than 4 minutes remaining before the Cavaliers nearly rallied.

The closest the No. 16 Cavaliers (14-2, 1-1) got was three points after Akil Mitchell made a one-handed dunk on an offensive rebound to cut the Duke lead to 61-58 with 47.6 seconds remaining.

The eighth-ranked Blue Devils (14-2, 2-0) nearly committed a 10-second violation on their ensuing possession before Rivers missed on a drive, leading to Virginias final possession. With the clock inside 7 seconds, Scott missed a 3-pointer from the corner and Jontel Evans (5'10''-G-90) missed another 3-pointer from the wing as time expired.

Had Scott or Evans made their shot, the story of the game may have been Scotts effort.

When a man does that in this kind of game, hes a helluva player, just a helluva player, Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said.

Instead, Krzyzewski could praise the efforts of Mason Plumlee (6'10''-F-90) (12 points, seven rebounds and an especially assertive mindset in the second half) and, yes, the Blue Devils defense without it seeming beside the point.

We played really good defense, Krzyzewski said. We can play defense, too. Just remember the teams weve played against are really good. You can play defense a variety of ways. I thought they played it well, and I thought we played it well tonight.

With the score tied at 38, Curry made a 3-pointer from the right wing, Tyler Thornton converted a driving layup in traffic and Miles Plumlee had an emphatic dunk off a Thornton assist in transition to give Duke a 45-38 edge. It was the first time the Blue Devils had led by more than two points.

The Duke advantage stayed around the 6-8 point range for much of the next 5 minutes.

Virginia had a harder time getting the ball to Scott in scoring position as the Blue Devils defense stiffened.

We got a little more aggressive, more physical and played him more straight up, Miles Plumlee said. Obviously it paid off for us.

With Duke up 55-48 with a little less than 5 minutes remaining and the shot clock winding down, Curry drove to the basket and made a layup while being fouled Assane Sene. He missed the free throw, but the Blue Devils still led by nine.

While it has a strong defense, the one thing Virginia has a hard time doing is scoring points in bunches. Duke didnt pull too far away, but the Cavaliers didnt get to within one possession until the Mitchell dunk.

The Blue Devils had to sweat out the final seconds, but they left encouraged by their defense.

It was a nice change of pace for the players.

Looking at our team, our defense isnt where it needs to be, Miles Plumlee said. Thats part of our culture at Duke our defense and why weve been great teams. We cant be one of the worst defensive teams in our league if were going to be a great team at the end of the year. I think this was a step in the right direction.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Wisconsin bounces back, beats Purdue 67-62 - by Eurobasket News
A fast start helped draw Wisconsin out of its recent funk.

The Badgers made five of their first six 3-point attempts and went on to beat Purdue 67-62 Thursday night, snapping a three-game losing streak.

Ben Brust (6'1''-G) scored 13 points to lead five players in double figures for Wisconsin (13-5, 2-3), which started the game with a 22-4 lead. The Badgers made 19 of 40 shots from the field and 9 of 20 from 3-point range after poor shooting they never shot better than 35 percent from the field during the losing streak.

'When the ball is going down, it wasn't like there was any magic, anything said differently,' Badgers coach Bo Ryan said.

The Badgers ended a five-game losing streak at Mackey Arena and stopped Purdue's 26-game home winning streak. They hadn't lost as many as three in a row overall since a six-game stretch in January 2009.

Jordan Taylor (6'1''-G) and Mike Bruesewitz (6'6''-F) scored 12 points apiece for Wisconsin, and Ryan Evans and Josh Gasser each scored 10 points.

Terone Johnson (6'2''-G-91) came off the bench to lead Purdue (13-5, 3-2) with a career-high 16 points. Robbie Hummel scored 13, but made just 5 of 17 shots. The Boilermakers made just 21 of 61 field goals overall and lost despite committing just three turnovers.

'You'll rarely see a team play at home and only have three turnovers and lose,' Purdue coach Matt Painter said. 'I don't know if I've ever seen something like that.'

After trailing by 18 points midway through the first half, Purdue made it interesting.

Purdue hit eight of its first 15 second-half shots, but the early Wisconsin run provided too much of a gap to overcome.

'It's too bad because I thought we played hard the rest of the game and made a good effort to try to come back,' Hummel said. 'It's just hard to come back when you're down that much.'

Anthony Johnson's runner with 10:36 to go cut Wisconsin's lead to 45-43, but Bruesewitz answered with a 3 from the corner and did so again in extending the Badgers' lead to 51-45 with less than 7 minutes remaining.

'You need plays like that,' Ryan said. 'People have been making them against us.'

The second 3-pointer came after Terone Johnson missed a short jumper that would have cut the lead to one. It also started an 8-2 Wisconsin run that pushed the lead back to 56-47.

The Boilermakers closed the gap to one possession temporarily. Hummel's trey in the final seconds cut the score to 65-62 but Taylor iced the game with a pair of free throws with 1.4 seconds left.

Purdue, which entered Saturday shooting just 61.4 percent from the free-throw line, had another poor effort by going 12 of 22.

'That needs to improve,' Hummel said. 'If you lose by five points and you miss 10 free throws, you do the math.'

Courtesy of www.timesunion.com

No. 15 Murray State beats Jacksonville State 66-55 - by Eurobasket News
Donte Poole (6'3''-G-89) had 21 points and three steals to lead No. 15 Murray State past Jacksonville State 66-55 on Thursday night, giving the unbeaten Racers the best start in school history.

Ed Daniel (6'7''-F) added 11 points, nine rebounds and three blocks for the Racers (17-0, 5-0 Ohio Valley Conference). Murray State is one of three undefeated teams in Division I, joining No. 1 Syracuse and No. 4 Baylor.

Brian Williams (6'1''-G) led Jacksonville State with 18 points.

The Gamecocks (6-13, 1-5) never led in the first half and Murray State went into the break up by two after shooting 34.8 percent.

With 5 minutes remaining, Murray State opened a 13-point margin and pulled away. Fans began chanting 'Undefeated!' with 40 seconds to go.

Courtesy of www.westkentuckystar.com

NetScouts Basketball's National Players of the Week - by Carl Berman
NetScouts Basketball has selected Delaware forward Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-G/F-89) as its Women's National Player of the Week for games ending the week of Sunday, Jan. 8.

Delle Donne, a 6-5 junior from Wilmington, Del., averaged 38.5 points in two CAA wins at home over Towson and on the road at George Mason, scoring 37 and 40 points while grabbing 15 rebounds in the win at George Mason. She is the nations leading scorer with a 30.3 average, has a 10.2 rebounding average, and has led Delaware (12-1) to its first national ranking this season and best start in school history.

NetScouts Basketball's Men's National Player of the Week is Creighton's Doug McDermott. This is the second national player of the week honor for McDermott this season.

McDermott, a 6-7 sophomore from Ames, Iowa, averaged 34 points and 7.5 rebounds for the week. He scored 32 points with seven rebounds in the Blue Jays 76-59 win over Drake and followed that up with 36 points and eight rebounds in the 92-83 win over Bradley.

McDermott shot an astounding 27-for-35 from the field (77.1%) and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line. For the season he is averaging 24.5 points and 8.3 rebounds while shooting 62.2% from the field, 56.1% on three-pointers and 84.6% on free throws.

NetScouts Basketballs International Player of the Week is California's Jorge Gutierrez. Gutierrez, a 6'3 senior from Chihuahua, Mexico led the Golden Bears to a win over Oregon (77-60) with 18 points, six rebounds and four assists. That was after a 26-point effort in a close loss (92-85) to Oregon State. For the season Gutierrez is averaging 14.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists as Cal battles for the Pac-12 lead.

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

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Ken HORTON
  Cent.Con.
  (198-F-)
  Avg: 21.1

1. Horton, Cent.Con.	21.1
2. Gibson, Sacred H.	19.8
3. Vinales, Cent.Con.	19.1
4. Ptacek, Cent.Con.	18.6
5. Johnson, Quinnipiac	18.1
6. Francis, Bryant	16.4
7. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn	16.1
8. Olasewere, LIU B.	15.8
9. Rivers, Wagner	15.8
10. Jones, Robert M.	15.6

Rebounds Per Game

Ike AZOTAM
  Quinnipiac
  (200-F-)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Azotam, Quinnipiac	10.3
2. Horton, Cent.Con.	9.6
3. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn	9.4
4. Thompson, Mt.St.Ma.	8.4
5. Goode, Fair Dickin.	7.6
6. Francis, Bryant	7.5
7. Olasewere, LIU B.	7.4
8. Rochford, Fair D.	7.3
9. Cannon, St.Franc.	7.3
10. Eatherton, St.Fra.	6.6

Assists Per Game

Jason BRICKMAN
  LIU B.
  (177-G-91)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Brickman, LIU B.	6.2
2. Johnson, St.Franc.	5.8
3. Dobbs, Bryant	4.8
4. McMillan, Cent.Con.	4.7
5. Ortiz, Wagner	4.1
6. Hayes, Fair Dickin.	4.1
7. Gaetano, Sacred H.	4.1
8. Steele, Monmouth	3.9
9. Jones, Robert M.	3.8
10. Maynard, Bryant	3.6

Steals Per Game

Ken HORTON
  Cent.Con.
  (198-F-)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Horton, Cent.Con.	2.1
2. Hayes, Fair Dickin.	2.0
3. Ortiz, Wagner	1.9
4. Jones, Robert M.	1.7
5. Olasewere, LIU B.	1.5
6. Johnson, Quinnipiac	1.5
7. Nicholas, Monmouth	1.4
8. Waite, Monmouth	1.4
9. Johnson, St.Franc.	1.4
10. Ritter, St.Franc.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Naofall FOLAHAN
  Wagner
  (210-C-90)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Folahan, Wagner	2.1
2. Thompson, Mt.St.Ma.	1.6
3. Horton, Cent.Con.	1.4
4. Thompson, Robert	1.3
5. Azotam, Quinnipiac	1.3
6. Goode, Fair Dickin.	1.3
7. Altit, Bryant	1.2
8. Johnson, St.Franc.	1.1
9. Efese, Cent.Con.	1.1
10. Olasewere, LIU B.	1.1

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings

1. Syracuse		4-0 (16-0)
2. Kentucky		2-0 (16-1)
3. N.Carolina		2-0 (13-0)
4. Baylor		3-0 (16-0)
5. Ohio St.		3-2 (15-3)
6. Michigan St.		4-0 (16-2)
7. Indiana		3-1 (15-1)
8. Duke		2-0 (12-1)
9. Missouri		2-1 (15-1)
10. Kansas		3-0 (13-3)
11. Georgetown		3-2 (15-2)
12. UNLV		0-0 (16-2)
13. Michigan		3-1 (14-3)
14. Louisville		1-3 (12-6)
15. Murray St.		5-0 (17-0)
16. Virginia		1-1 (13-2)
17. Connecticut		3-2 (13-3)
18. Kansas St.		1-2 (11-3)
19. Florida		1-1 (13-4)
20. Mississippi St.		1-1 (14-3)
21. Gonzaga		3-0 (16-2)
22. San Diego St.		0-0 (14-2)
23. Creighton		4-1 (14-2)
24. Seton Hall		4-1 (15-2)
25. Marquette		1-2 (11-4)

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

NIGERIA

Ben Uzoh is a newcomer at Rio Grande Valley Vipers - by Eurobasket Center
Rio Grande Valley Vipers added to their roster 24-year old naturalized Nigerian Ben Uzoh (191-PG-93kg-88, college: Tulsa). In his first game he scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Springfield A. 99-100. Uzoh played most recently at New Jersey Nets (NBA). He played also pro basketball in Italy and Russia. Uzoh graduated The University of Tulsa in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

NORWAY

Standings - BLNO

BLNO Standings

1. Asker Aliens		11-3
2. Froya Basket		10-2
3. Baerum Basket		9-4
4. Tromso		7-5
5. Centrum		7-6
6. Gimle BBK		7-6
7. Ammerud Bskt		2-12
8. Langhus		0-15

BLNO Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Anthony LEE-INGRAM
  Asker A.
  (198-F-)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Lee-Ingram, Asker	23.3
2. Mjos, Baerum B.	21.9
3. Land, Asker Aliens	21.8
4. Karlsen, Centrum	21.6
5. Westerlund, Ammeru.	20.9
6. Kombat, Froya B.	17.3
7. Stien, Gimle BBK	17.0
8. Wallace, Tromso	16.6
9. Sahlertz, Tromso	16.5
10. Bullock, Froya B.	16.5

Rebounds Per Game

Anthony LEE-INGRAM
  Asker A.
  (198-F-)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Lee-Ingram, Asker	12.5
2. Oatis, Baerum B.	9.5
3. Karlsen, Centrum	8.9
4. Bullock, Froya B.	8.7
5. Land, Asker Aliens	8.5
6. Byerson, Tromso	8.3
7. Kombat, Froya B.	7.8
8. Ferranti, Baerum B.	7.5
9. Wallace, Tromso	7.0
10. Hagen, Ammerud	6.4

Assists Per Game

Stian MJOS
  Baerum B.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 5

1. Mjos, Baerum B.	5.0
2. Issalhi, Tromso	4.5
3. Mahnin, Centrum	4.4
4. Stien, Asker Aliens	4.1
5. Randolph, Langhus	4.1
6. Gabrans, Froya B.	4.1
7. Stien, Gimle BBK	3.7
8. Mjos, Baerum B.	3.6
9. Midtvedt, Asker A.	3.5
10. Byerson, Tromso	3.5

Steals Per Game

Peter BULLOCK
  Froya B.
  (198-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Bullock, Froya B.	2.4
2. Pavlovic, Gimle B.	2.3
3. Mjos, Baerum B.	2.3
4. Ferranti, Baerum B.	2.1
5. Silavs, Froya B.	2.1
6. Sumskis, Gimle BBK	2.0
7. Sahlertz, Tromso	1.9
8. Issalhi, Tromso	1.8
9. Gabrans, Froya B.	1.8
10. Elsafadi, Froya B.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Donald OATIS
  Baerum B.
  (206-F/C-79)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Oatis, Baerum B.	3.3
2. Sjostrom, Baerum B.	1.2
3. Nyborg, Centrum	1.1
4. Byerson, Tromso	1.0
5. Bryn, Ammerud Bskt	0.8
6. Lee-Ingram, Asker	0.8
7. Hagen, Ammerud	0.7
8. Karlsen, Centrum	0.7
9. Sumskis, Gimle BBK	0.6
10. Mjos, Baerum B.	0.6

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

PBL

Standings

PBL Standings

Central Division
1. Cent.Illinois D.		2-0
2. Chicago M.		2-0
3. Sauk Valley P.		2-0
4. Indiana D.		0-2
5. NW Indiana S.		0-2
6. St. Louis P.		0-2
Eastern Division
1. Rochester R.		2-0
2. Charleston G.		1-1
3. Dayton A.S.		1-1
4. Scranton/W-B		1-2
5. Lake Michigan		0-1

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

POLAND

Turek number one in Poland for round 22 - by Eurobasket News
American power forward John Turek (205-F/C-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Trefl Sopot, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 22.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 29 points and 17 rebounds, while his team beat Slask Wroclaw (#7, 10-9) 85-77. It allowed Trefl Sopot to consolidate first place in the Polish PLK. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Trefl Sopot has a very solid 15-5 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. Turek turned to be Trefl Sopot's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Nebraska star has very solid stats this year. Turek is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 6.9rpg) and averages impressive 59.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Ivorian Walter Hodge (183-PG-86) of Zastal ZG. Hodge had a very good evening with a double-double of 29 points and 12 assists. Of course he lead Zastal ZG to another comfortable win 81-65 over slightly higher-ranked Anwil (#3, 14-6) being unquestionably team leader. Zastal ZG's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Hodge is a newcomer at Zastal ZG, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.9ppg (#1). He also recorded 6.8 assists per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Darrell Harris (208-F/C-84) of Kotwica (#6). Harris scored 14 points and grabbed sixteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Harris' great performance Kotwica lost 81-88 to the lower-ranked Polpharma (#10, 7-13). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Kotwica needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 9 lost games. Harris has a great season in Poland. After 21 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 11.7rpg (#1 in league). He also has 1.2bpg and FGP: 51.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Piotr Dabrowski (192-G/F-86) of Polpharma - 22 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Kirk Archibeque (205-C-84) of Zastal ZG - 17 points and 12 rebounds
6. Damian Kulig (205-F/C-87) of PBG Basket - 16 points and 6 rebounds
7. Leszek Karwowski (209-F/C-75) of AZS PW - 16 points and 7 rebounds
8. Adam Wojcik (207-F-70) of Slask Wroclaw - 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Jeremy Simmons (203-F-89) of Polpharma - 12 points and 11 rebounds
10. Stanley Burrell (190-PG-84) of Energa Czarni - 10 points, 6 rebounds and 3 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)

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

ROMANIA

CSS Giurgiu announced Jamaican Shakir Johnson - by Eurobasket News
CSS Giurgiu announced Jamaican Shakir Johnson (205-F/C-87) for the rest of the season. The player comes from Metropolitan State College of Denver.
Unfortunately, Metros season ended in the opening round against St. Cloud State, 77-82. Minor lost control of the ball and the Huskies recovered it and made a pair of free throws with 0.2 seconds left in regulation, eliminating the Roadrunners.
I actually feel pretty good, even though we ended the way we didnt necessarily wanted to, reserve center Shakir Johnson said. We made some really good progress, had 10 new recruits and we did well with them. Hopefully, well do better next season. (Courtesy of http://www.metnews.org).
Before Metro State he played his freshman season at Santa Monica College and his sophomore season at West Los Angeles College. He was named first team Western State Conference in 2008-09. He averaged 14.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.8 blocks.
Shakir Johnson became RMAC East Division Regular Season Co-Champion -10, RMAC Tournament Winner -10 and All-RMAC Defensive Player of the Year -11. He also was RMAC Regular Season Finalist -11 and RMAC Tournament Semifinals -11.

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

RUSSIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague A

Points Per Game

Davon JEFFERSON
  Triumph
  (204-F-86)
  Avg: 19.2

1. Jefferson, Triumph	19.2
2. Thomas, Spartak-.	17.2
3. Beverley, Spart.	17.0
4. McKee, Triumph	16.3
5. Mozgov, Khimky	16.2
6. Victor, Spartak-.	15.2
7. Ignerski, N.Nov.	15.0
8. Mavrokefalid., Spa.	14.4
9. Hayes, Krasnie Kri.	14.4
10. Massey, Lokomotiv	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Cuthbert VICTOR
  Spartak-.
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Victor, Spartak-.	9.4
2. Landry, Triumph	8.6
3. Monya, Khimky	7.0
4. Jefferson, Triumph	6.8
5. Massey, Lokomotiv	6.6
6. Baxter, Enisey	6.3
7. Beverley, Spart.	6.3
8. Khryapa, CSKA	6.0
9. Likholitov, Krasni.	6.0
10. Vorontsevich, CS.	5.8

Assists Per Game

Aaron MILES
  Krasnie Krilya
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Miles, Krasnie Kri.	5.9
2. Halperin, Spart.	5.3
3. Teodosic, CSKA	4.4
4. Beverley, Spart.	4.4
5. Samoylenko, Unics	4.3
6. McKee, Triumph	4.3
7. Thomas, Spartak-.	4.2
8. Bykov, Lokomotiv	3.9
9. Planinic, Khimky	3.8
10. Bremer, N.Novgorod	3.5

Steals Per Game

Davon JEFFERSON
  Triumph
  (204-F-86)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Jefferson, Triumph	2.7
2. Beverley, Spart.	2.6
3. Victor, Spartak-.	2.4
4. Thomas, Spartak-.	2.3
5. Massey, Lokomotiv	2.3
6. Miles, Krasnie Kri.	2.1
7. Karasev, Triumph	2.0
8. Chalmers, Lokom.	1.9
9. Halperin, Spart.	1.9
10. Planinic, Khimky	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Timofey MOZGOV
  Khimky
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Mozgov, Khimky	1.6
2. Kirilenko, CSKA	1.3
3. Planinic, Khimky	1.0
4. Savenkov, Spartak.	1.0
5. Traore, Lokomotiv	1.0
6. Jefferson, Triumph	1.0
7. Likhodey, Spart.	0.9
8. Savrasenko, Unics	0.8
9. Pushkov, Khimky	0.8
10. Balashov, Krasni.	0.8

Standings - Superleague A

PBL Standings

1. CSKA		6-1
2. Khimky		5-2
3. Spartak-Prim.		4-2
4. Lokomotiv		4-3
5. Spartak SP		4-3
6. Triumph		3-3
7. Unics		3-3
8. Krasnie Krilya		3-4
9. Enisey		1-6
10. N.Novgorod		1-7

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

SLOVAKIA

Lamar Roberson is already out of Svit - by Martin Bosko
The Key player of BK Iskra Svit Lamar Roberson (203-F-86, college: La-Lafayette) had to leave the club due administration reasons - player did not get visa, that is written in official club statement. American forward was scoring and rebounding leader of his team with 18.2 points and 8 boards in 17 games. The Managment and new Head Coach Ivan Fulgosi who came in Svit after Christmas, found another American power forward/center as replacement. Johndre Jefferson (205-F, college: S.Carolina) comes in Svit for try-out and he should play his first game against second team of league BC Prievidza.

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

SLOVENIA

Standings - 1A

Telemach Standings

1. Helios		10-1
2. Elektra		9-2
3. Zlatorog		8-3
4. Sentjur		8-4
5. Maribor Messer		6-6
6. Rogaska		5-6
7. Polzela		5-6
8. Geoplin Slovan		4-8
9. LTHcast Mercator		1-10
10. Parklji		1-11
Play in international cups:
1. Krka		-
2. Union Olimpija		-

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 17.7

1. Panic, Zlatorog	17.7
2. Nelson, Sentjur	16.7
3. Rizvic, Parklji	16.5
4. Maric, Sentjur	16.5
5. Prepelic, Helios	16.3
6. Rembert, Sentjur	14.3
7. Pasalic, Helios	14.2
8. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	14.1
9. Hohler, Polzela	13.9
10. Pajic, Geoplin Sl.	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Esmir RIZVIC
  Parklji
  (213-C-82)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Rizvic, Parklji	9.3
2. Miljkovic, Rogaska	8.8
3. Djugum, Geoplin	8.5
4. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.	8.2
5. Nuhanovic, Elektra	6.9
6. Nelson, Sentjur	6.7
7. Soldo, LTHcast	6.5
8. Pasalic, Helios	6.3
9. Zolotic, Maribor	6.3
10. Maric, Sentjur	6.3

Assists Per Game

Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 6

1. Rupnik, Geoplin	6.0
2. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	4.9
3. Rembert, Sentjur	4.8
4. Jovanovic, Maribo.	4.1
5. Gay, Helios	3.6
6. Prepelic, Helios	3.5
7. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.4
8. Hohler, Polzela	3.4
9. Panic, Zlatorog	3.3
10. Zagorc, Elektra	3.3

Steals Per Game

Tomaz MEZEK
  LTHcast .
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Mezek, LTHcast	2.9
2. Kobal, Parklji	2.9
3. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	2.1
4. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	2.1
5. Vasl, Polzela	1.8
6. Lelic, Elektra	1.8
7. Panic, Zlatorog	1.7
8. Gay, Helios	1.5
9. Rembert, Sentjur	1.5
10. Rupnik, Geoplin	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	1.4
2. Nelson, Sentjur	1.3
3. Sviridov, Polzela	1.2
4. Omic, Zlatorog	1.0
5. Sebic, Sentjur	0.9
6. Djugum, Geoplin	0.8
7. Hannibal, Polzela	0.7
8. Dimec, Zlatorog	0.7
9. Cresnar, Helios	0.7
10. Rizvic, Parklji	0.7

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

SOUTH KOREA

KBL Round 40: Top-ranked Dongbu Promy wins another game - by Eurobasket News
KBL top team - Dongbu Promy (31-7) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed fifth ranked ET Land Elephants (19-18) in Inchon 78-58. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of ET Land Elephants. The game without a history. Dongbu Promy led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 10 points and 17 rebounds. The former international power forward Joo-Sung Kim (205-79) contributed with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds for ET Land Elephants. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Dongbu Promy have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 31-7 record. ET Land Elephants at the other side keep the fifth place with 18 games lost. Dongbu Promy are looking forward to face KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju in the next round. ET Land Elephants will play at home against SK Knights in Seoul and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between 10th ranked Samsung Thunders (7-30) and third ranked Sonic Boom KT (24-13) in Seoul ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Busan outscored Samsung Thunders 103-62. Worth to mention a quality performance of American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks and Sung-Min Cho who added 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) during the contest. At the losing side American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) responded with 15 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Sonic Boom KT maintains third position with 24-13 record having eight points less than leader Dongbu Promy. Samsung Thunders at the other side stay dead last with 30 lost games. Sonic Boom KT will play against LG Sakers (#8) in Changwon in the next round where they are favorite. Samsung Thunders will play on the road against Mobis Phoebus in Ulsan and hope to get back on the winning track.

In the last two games of round 40 Daegu Orions were beaten by Anyang KGC on the road 78-60. KCC Egis won against Mobis Phoebus on its own court 87-76.
The most impressive performance of 40th round was 43 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds by DeShawn Sims of KCC Egis.

ET Land - Dongbu Promy 58-78

KBL top team - Dongbu Promy (31-7) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed fifth ranked ET Land Elephants (19-18) in Inchon 78-58. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of ET Land Elephants. The game without a history. Dongbu Promy led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) who helped