EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/21/2012

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Men News

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


Standings
ABA Standings
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. Savannah Storm 0-0
 8. Tampa 0-0
 9. Columbus R. 0-2
 10. E.Point Jaguars 0-7
California NW
 1. Central Valley T. 4-0
 2. Modesto H. 3-2
 3. Chico Rage 0-1
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. Portsmouth C. 2-2
 5. Norfolk Sh. 0-0
 6. Seven Cities 0-0
Great Lake
 1. Chicago Steam 6-0
 2. Milwaukee B. 3-0
 3. Chi-Town B. 0-0
 4. Midwest Flames 0-0
 5. Oshkosh 0-0
 6. Cleveland H. 0-1
 7. 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. Dayton GCHF 0-2
 7. Michiana M. 0-2
Northeast
 1. Connecticut T. 6-0
 2. Jersey Expr. 4-6
 3. Island Vipers 1-3
 4. New York Ch. 0-1
 5. NYC Thunder 0-3
Northern Division
 1. Oklahoma I. 0-0
Pacific North
 1. Bay Area M. 13-4
 2. S.Francisco R. 8-1
 3. Richmond R. 8-3
 4. Port City P. 4-5
 5. E.Bay Pitbulls 2-5
 6. Sacramento H. 2-10
Pacific Northwest
 1. Seattle M. 6-0
 2. Alaska Q. 3-3
 3. Washington R. 0-1
 4. Calgary C. 0-4
Panhandle
 1. Gulf Coast F. 6-1
 2. 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
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. W.Virginia B. 3-4
 2. ABA-Canada 0-0
 3. Florida M. 0-0
 4. Rocky Mountain S. 0-1
 5. Team Haiti 0-1
 6. Appalachian R. 0-2
 7. Chicago F. 0-3


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


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


Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 18.6
 1. Gutierrez, Obras18.6 
 2. Smith, La Union17.5 
 3. Villegas, Sionista17.4 
 4. OBannon, Boca Jrs16.8 
 5. Meyinsse, Wuber-.16.4 
 6. McHopson, Quilm.15.9 
 7. Gutierrez, Penarol15.9 
 8. Pittman, Libertad.15.8 
 9. Mikulas, La Union15.7 
 10. Mojica, Wuber-Es.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ruben GARCES
  Atenas
  (206-C/F-73)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Garces, Atenas9.4 
 2. Sandes, Sionista9.3 
 3. Gutierrez, Obras9.2 
 4. Lloreda, Olimpico.8.8 
 5. Battle, Libertad S.8.7 
 6. Truscott, Quilm.8.2 
 7. Nelson, GECR I.7.8 
 8. Cowan, Club 97.7 
 9. Mikulas, La Union7.1 
 10. Williams, Quimsa7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Campazzo, Penarol6.6 
 2. Sanchez, Wuber-.6.2 
 3. Stanic, Boca Jrs5.9 
 4. Cequeira, Sionista5.7 
 5. Martinez, Regat.5.5 
 6. Sucatzky, Atenas4.3 
 7. Victoriano, San M.4.2 
 8. Smith, La Union3.7 
 9. Ciorciari, GECR I.3.6 
 10. Osimani, Obras3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lescano, Atenas2.4 
 2. Campazzo, Penarol2.2 
 3. Ciorciari, GECR I.1.9 
 4. McHopson, Quilm.1.8 
 5. Sanchez, Wuber-.1.7 
 6. Beitzel, San M.1.6 
 7. Stanic, Boca Jrs1.6 
 8. Washam, Obras1.5 
 9. Funes, GECR I.1.4 
 10. Treise, Libertad1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Battle, Libertad S.1.3 
 2. Rollins, Sionista1.3 
 3. Gutierrez, Obras1.2 
 4. Roe, Regatas C.1.1 
 5. Ayarza, Club 91.1 
 6. Clancy, Atenas0.9 
 7. Garces, Atenas0.9 
 8. Meyinsse, Wuber-.0.9 
 9. Rollins, San M.0.9 
 10. Kante, Regatas C.0.8 


Argentinian LigaA round 15 (Second Stage) best performance: Ariel Zago - by Eurobasket News
Center Ariel Zago (203-C-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Wuber-Est.Bahia, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15 (Second Stage).
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed Boca Jrs (#10, 7-8) with 20-point margin 96-76. Each game in Second Stage is important. but the teams lost the distance to the top of the standings. Wuber-Est.Bahia maintains the 11th position in Argentinian LigaA. Wuber-Est.Bahia is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 8th lost game this season out of 14 games. In the team's last game Zago had a remarkable 63.6% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Ariel Zago averages this season 3.9ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old Italian swingman Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84) of Sionista. Sandes had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. It was enough for Sionista to edge the lower-ranked Quimsa (#8, 7-8) 71-65. This victory allowed Sionista to move up to 4th position in the standings. His team's 10-5 record is not bad at all. Sandes is a newcomer at Sionista, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Italian guard Paolo Quinteros (186-G-79) of Regatas C. (#7). Quinteros scored 22 points. He was a key player of Regatas C., leading his team to a 82-81 win against slightly higher-ranked Atenas (#5, 9-6). Regatas C. needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 7 lost games. Quinteros has a very solid season. In 28 games in Argentina he scored 14.8ppg. He also has 3.1apg and FGP: 56.9%. Paolo Quinteros has also Argentinian passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) of San Mart.C. - 13 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Marcos Saglietti (189-G-86) of Libertad S. - 21 points and 2 rebounds
6. Edward Nelson (203-F-82) of GECR Indalo - 17 points and 10 rebounds
7. Robert Battle (204-C-81) of Libertad S. - 13 points and 7 rebounds
8. Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80) of La Union - 15 points and 8 rebounds
9. Anibal Marin (199-G/F-82) of La Union - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Martin Melo (197-F-82) of Club 9 - 11 points and 11 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)

LigaA: Round 15 of the second stage - by Eurobasket News
LigaA is at the halfway of the Second Stage and there are still another 15 rounds left.

Sixth-ranked Lanus (9-6) gave a tough game to first ranked Obras (13-2) in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. Obras managed to secure only two-point victory 103-101. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Lanus. Obras maintains first place with 13-2 record. Lanus at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Atenas. Obras are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Quilmes MP (#16) in Mar del Plata in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lanus will play on the road against Club 9 (#13) in Rio Tercero and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Important game to mention about took place in Corrientes. Eighth ranked Regatas Corrientes (8-7) saved a 1-point derby victory at home edging 4th placed Atenas (9-6) 82-81 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Atenas. It was an exceptional evening for the former international guard Paolo Quinteros (186-G-79) who led the winners and scored 22 points. Ronald DuPree accounted for 9 points and 7 rebounds. International guard Miguel Gerlero (192-88) came up with 19 points for Atenas in the defeat. Regatas Corrientes moved-up to seventh place. Atenas at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Lanus. Regatas Corrientes will play against Olimpico de La Banda (#15) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Atenas will play against La Union (#9) in Formosa and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Santiado Estero was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked Sionista (10-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Quimsa (7-8). Sionista managed to secure a 6-point victory 71-65 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was Matias Sandes who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Carlos Schattmann who recorded 20 points. Sionista have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place. Loser Quimsa dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Boca Jrs and La Union. Sionista will meet higher ranked Libertad Sunchales (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Quimsa will play against San Martin Corrientes (#14) and hope to secure a win.
Third ranked Libertad Sunchales (11-4) crushed at home 14th ranked San Martin Corrientes (4-11) by 25 points 89-64, which is the biggest margin this round. It was a good game for Joshua Pittman who led his team to a victory with 18 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. Libertad Sunchales maintains third place with 11-4 record having just two points less than leader Obras. San Martin Corrientes lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. Libertad Sunchales' next round opponent will be Sionista (#4) in Parana. San Martin Corrientes will play on the road against Quimsa (#8) in Santiado Estero.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 15: GECR Indalo lost to Penarol on the opponent's court 80-89. Wuber-Est.Bahia outscored Boca Jrs in a home game 96-76. Bottom-ranked Quilmes MP recorded a loss to Club 9 on the road 78-60. La Union defeated Olimpico LB on its own court 93-83.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 24 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists by Ariel Zago of Wuber-Est.Bahia.

Penarol - GECR Indalo 89-80

Very expected game in Mar del Plata where 12th ranked GECR Indalo (5-10) was defeated by second ranked Penarol (12-3) 89-80. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But GECR Indalo won fourth quarter 20-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 25 personal fouls committed by GECR Indalo helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for the former international forward Marcos Mata (202-86) who led his team to a victory with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. International forward Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) contributed with 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Five Penarol players scored in double figures. Penarol's coach Sergio Hernandez allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Cedric McGowan (198-85, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) answered with 21 points and the other American import forward Edward Nelson (203-82, college: Connecticut, agency: Dream Team Management) added 17 points and 10 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) in the effort for GECR Indalo. Defending champion maintains second place with 12-3 record behind leader Obras. GECR Indalo at the other side keeps the twelfth position with ten games lost. Penarol's next round opponent will be Boca Juniors (#10) in Buenos Aires and are hoping to win another game. GECR Indalo will play on the road against Wuber-Est.Bahia in Bahia Blanca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Penarol: L.Gutierrez 17+7reb, S.Safar 14+2reb+1ast, M.Mata 13+6reb+5ast, M.Leiva 12+5reb, M.Ibarra 11+2reb+4ast, K.Lamonte 11+1reb+2ast
GECR Indalo: C.McGowan 21+4reb+2ast, R.Gabini 20+3reb, E.Nelson 17+10reb, S.Scala 9+2reb+2ast, D.Ciorciari 6+4reb+7ast, D.Romero 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 141260


Obras - Lanus 103-101

Sixth-ranked Lanus (9-6) gave a tough game to first ranked Obras (13-2) in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. Obras managed to secure only two-point victory 103-101. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Lanus. Obras maintains first place with 13-2 record. Lanus at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Atenas. Obras are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Quilmes MP (#16) in Mar del Plata in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lanus will play on the road against Club 9 (#13) in Rio Tercero and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
gschID: 141261


Libertad S. - San Mart.C. 89-64

Third ranked Libertad Sunchales (11-4) crushed at home 14th ranked San Martin Corrientes (4-11) by 25 points 89-64, which is the biggest margin this round. It looked good early as San Martin Corrientes took an 13-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Libertad Sunchales took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 25 points. They shot 64.3 percent from the field. Libertad Sunchales had a 28-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Libertad Sunchales especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a good game for American forward Joshua Pittman (197-76, college: NC-Asheville, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Marcos Saglietti (189-86) contributed with 21 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Dominican power forward Jack Michael Martinez (203-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds and American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for San Martin Corrientes. Both teams had four 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. Libertad Sunchales maintains third place with 11-4 record having just two points less than leader Obras. San Martin Corrientes lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. Libertad Sunchales' next round opponent will be Sionista (#4) in Parana. San Martin Corrientes will play on the road against Quimsa (#8) in Santiado Estero.
Top scorers:
Libertad S.: M.Saglietti 21+2reb+1ast, J.Pittman 18+5reb+2ast, J.Treise 16+2reb+3ast, R.Battle 13+7reb, J.Emiliano Fernandez 7+1reb, A.Alloatti 6+7reb+3ast
San Mart.C.: D.Beitzel 17, J.Michael Martinez 13+12reb+2ast, A.Carabajal 10+1reb+2ast, W.McFarlan 10+7reb+2ast, F.Ramirez 7+1reb, A.Eslava 7+4reb
gschID: 141262


Regatas C. - Atenas 82-81

Important game to mention about took place in Corrientes. Eighth ranked Regatas Corrientes (8-7) saved a 1-point derby victory at home edging 4th placed Atenas (9-6) 82-81 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Atenas. The hosts were ahead by 5 points but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 26-24 run, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for the former international guard Paolo Quinteros (186-79) who led the winners and scored 22 points. American swingman Ronald DuPree (199-81, college: LSU, agency: Priority Sports) accounted for 9 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. International guard Miguel Gerlero (192-88) came up with 19 points and Panamanian power forward Jose Lloreda (201-80, college: LSU, agency: Paris Global Sports) added 15 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) respectively for Atenas in the defeat. Four Atenas players scored in double figures. Regatas Corrientes moved-up to seventh place. Atenas at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Lanus. Regatas Corrientes will play against Olimpico de La Banda (#15) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Atenas will play against La Union (#9) in Formosa and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Regatas C.: P.Quinteros 22+2reb+2ast, L.Roe 13+3reb+1ast, D.Cavaco 12+1reb+1ast, D.Kante 10+5reb+1ast, R.DuPree 9+7reb+2ast, N.Romano 7
Atenas: J.Manuel Rivero 20, M.Gerlero 19+3reb, J.Lloreda 15+7reb, M.Melvin 13+5reb+1ast, F.Sucatzky 7+2reb+4ast, M.Garcia 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 141255


Wuber-Est.Bahia - Boca Jrs 96-76

There was a small surprise in Bahia Blanca where eleventh ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (6-8) smashed 9th ranked Boca Juniors (7-8) 96-76. The game was mostly controlled by Wuber-Est.Bahia. Boca Juniors was better in fourth quarter 25-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Boca Juniors 41-20 including a 31-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Wuber-Est.Bahia players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. It was a good game for center Ariel Zago (203-85) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. Puerto Rican power forward Ricardo Sanchez (212-87) contributed with 12 points and 6 assists for the winners. Five Wuber-Est.Bahia players scored in double figures. American swingman Will Graves (198-88, college: N.Carolina) answered with 22 points and the other American import guard Larry O'Bannon (194-83, college: Louisville, agency: Interperformances) added 20 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Boca Juniors. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Wuber-Est.Bahia maintains eleventh place with 6-8 record. Boca Juniors at the other side dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. Wuber-Est.Bahia's next round opponent will be GECR Indalo (#12) in Comodoro R..
Top scorers:
Wuber-Est.Bahia: A.Zago 24+12reb+5ast, J.Espil 15+1reb+3ast, J.Ignacio Sanchez 14+3reb+2ast, L.Faggiano 12+2reb+3ast, R.Sanchez 12+3reb+6ast, J.Meyinsse 10+4reb
Boca Jrs: W.Graves 22+3reb+1ast, L.O'Bannon 20+6reb, F.Martina 12+3reb, D.Alston 9+2reb+1ast, J.Brussino 5+2reb+4ast, M.Fierro 4+1reb
gschID: 141256


Club 9 - Quilmes MP 78-60

Not a big story in a game in Rio Tercero where 16th ranked Quilmes MP (3-12) was defeated by thirteenth ranked Club 9 (5-10) 78-60. It looked good early as Quilmes MP took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Club 9 had a 26-13 second period charge getting the lead and Quilmes MP was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-78. They outrebounded Quilmes MP 37-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for Panamanian forward Josimar Ayarza (205-87, college: S.Mississippi) who led his team to a victory with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Martin Melo (197-82) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four Club 9 players scored in double figures. The former international center Axel Weigand (200-85) answered with 13 points and 6 rebounds and American-Venezuelan forward Clarence Matthews (201-83, college: Tennessee St.) added 14 points in the effort for Quilmes MP. Club 9 moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with GECR Indalo. Newly promoted Quilmes MP stay at the bottom position with 12 games lost. Club 9's next round opponent will be higher ranked Lanus (#6) in Buenos Aires and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Quilmes MP will play on the road against the league's leader Obras (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Club 9: J.Ayarza 19+6reb, M.Melo 11+11reb+1ast, J.Cowan 11+3reb+1ast, S.Clancy 10+11reb+1ast, D.Gerbaudo 9+1reb+3ast, E.Martina 6+2reb+1ast
Quilmes MP: C.Matthews 14+4reb, A.Weigand 13+6reb, M.Smith 12+1reb, N.Ferreyra 7+2reb+4ast, G.Sciutto 6+2reb, F.Pinero 4
gschID: 141257


Quimsa - Sionista 65-71

The game in Santiado Estero was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked Sionista (10-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Quimsa (7-8). Sionista managed to secure a 6-point victory 71-65 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 15-8 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Sionista dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Quimsa's 28. The best player for the winners was the former international swingman Matias Sandes (201-84) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds. International guard Luis Cequeira (180-85) chipped in 12 points and 7 assists. Four Sionista players scored in double figures. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Carlos Schattmann (194-87) who recorded 20 points and naturalized Italian center Damian Tintorelli (204-81, agency: Players Group) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Sionista have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place. Loser Quimsa dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. They share it with Boca Jrs and La Union. Sionista will meet higher ranked Libertad Sunchales (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Quimsa will play against San Martin Corrientes (#14) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Sionista: M.Sandes 19+11reb+1ast, J.Villegas 14+4reb, L.Cequeira 12+2reb+7ast, A.Zilli 11+5reb, H.Rollins 7+2reb, F.Ferrini 4+4reb+2ast
Quimsa: C.Schattmann 20+1reb+1ast, D.Tintorelli 14+7reb+1ast, D.Lo Grippo 9+1reb, B.Robinson 8+3reb+2ast, J.Williams 8+6reb+1ast, G.Deck 4+3reb
gschID: 141258


La Union - Olimpico LB 93-83

Everything went according to plan in Formosa where tenth ranked La Union (7-8) beat 15th ranked Olimpico de La Banda (3-11) 93-83. The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 3-point deficit before their 29-16 run, which allowed them to win the game. La Union dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Olimpico de La Banda's 32. It was a good game for naturalized Italian swingman Anibal Marin (199-82) who led his team to a victory with 15 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Gabriel Mikulas (201-80, college: E.Carolina, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Five La Union players scored in double figures. American point guard Gregory Grays (185-79, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) answered with 25 points and forward Cristian Romero (198-82) added 18 points in the effort for Olimpico de La Banda. La Union moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Boca Jrs and Quimsa. Olimpico de La Banda lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with 11 games lost. La Union's next round opponent will be higher ranked Atenas (#5) in Cordoba and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Olimpico de La Banda will play on the road against Regatas Corrientes (#7).
Top scorers:
La Union: J.Smith 19+1reb, G.Lewis 16+5reb, A.Pau 15+4reb+1ast, G.Mikulas 15+8reb+1ast, A.Marin 15+7reb+3ast, J.Caceres 7+2reb
Olimpico LB: G.Grays 25+2reb+2ast, C.Romero 18+2reb, F.Malara 11+3reb+1ast, D.Hardin 8+5reb+1ast, J.DeGroat 6+7reb+1ast, P.Moldu 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 141259




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


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Wildcats 13-5 
 2. Breakers 13-5 
 3. Taipans 9-8 
 4. Tigers 9-10 
 5. Crocodiles 8-6 
 6. Kings 8-11 
 7. Blaze 7-8 
 8. 36ers 5-11 
 9. Hawks 4-12 


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Cameron TRAGARDH
  Tigers
  (209-C/F-83)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Tragardh, Tigers18.7 
 2. Mills, Tigers18.6 
 3. Khazzouh, Kings16.9 
 4. Lisch, Wildcats16.7 
 5. Wilson, Taipans16.6 
 6. Crawford, Croco.16.5 
 7. Johnson, 36ers16.4 
 8. Wilkinson, Breakers16.0 
 9. Warren, 36ers15.4 
 10. Deleon, Blaze15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Khazzouh, Kings11.0 
 2. Holmes, Crocodiles9.7 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers8.5 
 4. Grant, Kings8.5 
 5. Crosswhite, Taipa.7.7 
 6. Johnson, 36ers7.6 
 7. Worthington, Blaze6.9 
 8. Vukona, Breakers6.7 
 9. Bose, Kings6.5 
 10. Knight, Wildcats6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Jackson, Breakers6.4 
 2. Mills, Tigers5.0 
 3. Gill, Crocodiles4.8 
 4. Crosswell, 36ers4.7 
 5. Gibson, Blaze4.5 
 6. Bruce, Kings4.4 
 7. Martin, Hawks3.6 
 8. Martin, Wildcats3.5 
 9. Lisch, Wildcats3.4 
 10. Warren, 36ers3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Jackson, Breakers2.6 
 2. Martin, Wildcats2.5 
 3. Robbins, Wildcats1.9 
 4. Mims, Crocodiles1.6 
 5. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
 6. Gibson, Blaze1.2 
 7. Glover, Hawks1.2 
 8. Lisch, Wildcats1.1 
 9. Crawford, Croco.1.1 
 10. Gill, Crocodiles1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Khazzouh, Kings2.3 
 2. Simpsons, 36ers1.5 
 3. Grant, Kings1.4 
 4. Nevill, Wildcats1.3 
 5. Johnson, 36ers1.2 
 6. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.2 
 7. Worthington, Blaze1.1 
 8. Abercrombie, Break.0.9 
 9. Knight, Wildcats0.9 
 10. Pledger, Breakers0.8 


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


Standings - A Bundesliga
A Bundesliga Standings
 1. Klosterneub. 15-2 
 2. Gmunden 13-4 
 3. Wels 13-4 
 4. Kapfenberg 11-6 
 5. Oberwart 11-7 
 6. Gussing 9-8 
 7. UBSC Graz 7-10 
 8. BC Vienna 6-11 
 9. Furstenfeld 6-12 
 10. Arkadia 4-14 
 11. St.Polten 0-17 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 27.1
 1. Stazic, BC Vienna27.1 
 2. Wade, Arkadia24.4 
 3. Drenovac, Arkadia21.2 
 4. Djuric, Gussing20.1 
 5. Reed, Oberwart19.9 
 6. Shavies, Furstenf.18.8 
 7. Rakocevic, BC Vi.17.6 
 8. Suljanovic, Kloste.17.0 
 9. Shaw, Oberwart16.6 
 10. Bobb, Klosterneub.16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.13.8 
 2. Werner, Wels9.4 
 3. Oppland, Gmunden7.9 
 4. Reed, Oberwart7.8 
 5. Skurdauskas, Arkad.7.2 
 6. Trmal, St.Polten7.1 
 7. Nelson, Kapfenberg6.9 
 8. Gordon, Kapfenberg6.8 
 9. Scott, Gussing6.6 
 10. Suljanovic, Klost.6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Danek, Arkadia5.9 
 2. Fears, Kapfenberg5.6 
 3. Klepeisz, Gussing5.5 
 4. Schreiner, Kapfe.5.2 
 5. Shavies, Furstenf.4.8 
 6. Lanegger, Klostern.4.7 
 7. Rakocevic, BC Vi.4.6 
 8. Curry, Gmunden4.3 
 9. Stazic, BC Vienna4.3 
 10. Schaal, UBSC G.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Fears, Kapfenberg2.4 
 2. Shavies, Furstenf.2.3 
 3. Pryor, Wels2.3 
 4. Schreiner, Kapfe.2.1 
 5. Milosevic, St.Polt.1.8 
 6. Brown, Wels1.6 
 7. Jandl, Oberwart1.6 
 8. Scott, Gussing1.5 
 9. Wade, Arkadia1.5 
 10. Arnold, Gmunden1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.3.2 
 2. Scott, Gussing1.1 
 3. Ware, Furstenfeld1.0 
 4. Kohlmaier, Wels0.8 
 5. Koch, Gussing0.7 
 6. Skurdauskas, Arkad.0.7 
 7. Shaw, Oberwart0.6 
 8. Greimeister, Klost.0.6 
 9. Francois, BC Vienna0.6 
 10. Brown, Wels0.6 


A Bundesliga Round 19 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Fourth ranked Kapfenberg Bulls won an overtime thriller edging much higher ranked Gmunden Swans by one point 79-78 on Friday night. It was a great evening for Larry Gordon (196-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cal Poly Pomona) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 9 rebounds. Kapfenberg Bulls maintains fourth place with 11-6 record. Gmunden Swans at the other side keep the second position with four games lost. Kapfenberg Bulls will face Gussing Knights (#6) on the road in the next round. Gmunden Swans will play against the league's leader Xion Dukes (#1) in Klosterneuburg and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Wels - BC Vienna 101-83

Very expected game when 8th ranked BC Vienna (6-11) was defeated on the road by third ranked Raiffeisen Wels (13-4) 101-83 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 101-83. Raiffeisen Wels dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to BC Vienna's 38. They outrebounded BC Vienna 37-24 including a 19-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. Raiffeisen Wels looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a great evening for American-Iranian point guard Ali Farokhmanesh (183-88, college: N.Iowa, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. American center Joe Werner (201-84, college: Wisc.-La Cros.) helped adding 16 points and 11 rebounds. At the losing side the former international guard Stjepan Stazic (199-78, agency: World Sport Agency) responded with 27 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian-Bosnian power forward Marko Djurkovic (205-87) scored 12 points and 9 rebounds. Five Raiffeisen Wels and four BC Vienna players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Raiffeisen Wels have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Gmunden. BC Vienna lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 11 games lost. Raiffeisen Wels will face UBSC Graz (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. BC Vienna will play against St.Polten.
Top scorers:
Wels: A.Farokhmanesh 19+5reb+7ast, J.Werner 16+11reb+1ast, T.Brown 16+1reb+2ast, D.Lamesic 16+7reb+1ast, Q.Pryor 14+6reb+5ast, T.Csebits 8+1reb+1ast
BC Vienna: S.Stazic 27+5reb+1ast, J.Francois 14+2reb+1ast, M.Djurkovic 12+9reb+2ast, D.Toroman 10+1reb+1ast, T.Gaspar 7+1reb+3ast, M.Djurovic 5+1reb
gschID: 137166


Klosterneub. - Arkadia 92-82

Very predictable result in Klosterneuburg where first ranked Xion Dukes (15-2) defeated 10th ranked Arkadia Lions (4-14) 92-82 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Xion Dukes. Arkadia Lions was better in second period 24-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Arkadia Lions 31-19. Xion Dukes shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 58.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for the former international guard Christoph Nagler (196-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points. Bosnian-Slovenian guard Damir Zeleznik (188-80) helped adding 18 points and 5 assists. Xion Dukes' coach Werner Sallomon used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Serbian forward Djordje Drenovac (203-92, agency: Interperformances) responded with 30 points and the former international point guard Benedikt Danek (176-86) scored 13 points and 8 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Xion Dukes have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain first place with 15-2 record. Arkadia Lions lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with 14 games lost. Xion Dukes will face league's second-placed Gmunden Swans in Gmunden in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Arkadia Lions will play at home against Oberwart Gunners (#5).
Top scorers:
Klosterneub.: C.Nagler 25+1reb+2ast, D.Zeleznik 18+1reb+5ast, R.Suljanovic 17+2reb+3ast, C.Bobb 11+7reb+2ast, C.Greimeister 8+2reb, J.Chappell 6+4reb+3ast
Arkadia: D.Drenovac 30+4reb, R.Spasojevic 15+4reb+1ast, S.N'Diaye 13+4reb+2ast, B.Danek 13+4reb+8ast, P.Skurdauskas 5+2reb, A.Percan 3+1reb
gschID: 137167


Kapfenberg - Gmunden 79-78 OT

Fourth ranked Kapfenberg Bulls won an overtime thriller edging much higher ranked Gmunden Swans by one point 79-78 on Friday night. The hosts were tied at the half and again at the end of regular time. But they managed to win overtime period 10-9. Kapfenberg Bulls made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Gmunden Swans turnovers. It was a great evening for American forward Larry Gordon (196-87, college: Cal Poly Pomona, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 9 rebounds. The former international guard Thomas Schreiner (195-87) helped adding 10 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. Five Kapfenberg Bulls players scored in double figures. At the losing side American forward Robert Arnold (198-88, college: Boise St.) responded with 17 points and the other American import guard Morris Curry (178-87, college: Providence) scored 9 points and 10 assists. Kapfenberg Bulls maintains fourth place with 11-6 record. Gmunden Swans at the other side keep the second position with four games lost. Kapfenberg Bulls will face Gussing Knights (#6) on the road in the next round. Gmunden Swans will play against the league's leader Xion Dukes (#1) in Klosterneuburg and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kapfenberg: L.Gordon 21+9reb+2ast, J.Fears 13+2reb+5ast, D.Mayes 12+1reb+1ast, D.Nelson 12+4reb+1ast, T.Schreiner 10+3reb+7ast, C.Gray 9+2reb
Gmunden: R.Arnold 17+3reb+1ast, D.Oppland 13+4reb, M.Mayer 11+7reb, E.Murati 10+1reb+1ast, M.Curry 9+1reb+10ast, R.Poiger 9+4reb+3ast
gschID: 137168


St.Polten - Gussing 70-78

Not a big story in a game when bottom-ranked St.Polten (0-17) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Gussing Knights (9-8) 78-70 on Friday. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-70. Gussing Knights made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. St.Polten was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for naturalized Serbian power forward Aleksandar Djuric (210-82) who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points and 8 rebounds. International guard Thomas Klepeisz (188-91) helped adding 15 points and 6 assists. Gussing Knights' coach Robert Langer used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international forward Martin Speiser (202-83) responded with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and swingman Florian Trmal (193-89) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 14 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Gussing Knights maintains sixth place with 9-8 record. Loser St.Polten still closes the standings. Gussing Knights will face higher ranked Kapfenberg Bulls (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. St.Polten will play against BC Vienna (#8) in Wien and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Gussing: A.Djuric 16+8reb+1ast, T.Klepeisz 15+2reb+6ast, C.Scott 14+8reb+1ast, E.Kadic 13+3reb, M.Klepeisz 7+4reb+1ast, C.Astl 6+1reb+1ast
St.Polten: M.Speiser 17+7reb+5ast, D.Friedrich 15+1reb+3ast, N.Milosevic 11+7reb+5ast, F.Trmal 10+14reb, A.Worenz 9+2reb, L.Gvozden 5+1reb
gschID: 137169


Oberwart - Furstenfeld 80-74

Everything went according to plan when fifth ranked Oberwart Gunners (11-7) beat at home 9th ranked Furstenfeld Panthers (6-12) 80-74 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 took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Furstenfeld Panthers won third quarter 17-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Furstenfeld Panthers outrebounded Oberwart Gunners 36-22 including 24 on the defensive glass. Furstenfeld Panthers were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for Bosnian center Esmir Rizvic (213-82, college: Texas Tech) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Joe Dean Shaw (199-87, college: Nevada) helped adding 19 points. At the losing side American guard Reece Gaines (198-81, college: Louisville) responded with 18 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import swingman Bryant Matthews (201-82, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Court Side) scored 14 points and 9 rebounds. Five Oberwart Gunners and four Furstenfeld Panthers players scored in double figures. Oberwart Gunners have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion maintains fifth place with 11-7 record. Loser Furstenfeld Panthers keep the ninth position with 12 games lost. Oberwart Gunners will face Arkadia Lions (#10) in Traiskirchen in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game.
Top scorers:
Oberwart: J.Dean Shaw 19+3reb+3ast, E.Rizvic 17+6reb+3ast, H.Artner 13+2ast, D.Jandl 12+5reb+5ast, N.Gacesa 10+4reb+2ast, H.Ochsenhofer 5+2reb+3ast
Furstenfeld: R.Gaines 18+5reb+1ast, B.Matthews 14+9reb, P.Radakovics 12+3reb+2ast, A.Shavies 10+4reb+3ast, J.Robinson 9+7reb, G.Ware 5+4reb
gschID: 137170




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


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


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


Standings - Premier League
Premier League Standings
 1. Grodno-93 11-1 
 2. Minsk-2006 10-1 
 3. Rubon 7-5 
 4. BGUIR-RTI 5-7 
 5. Minsk-2006 II 4-8 
 6. SBK Osipovichi 4-8 
 7. Sozh Gomel 0-11 


Stats Leaders - Premier League
Points Per Game
 Ronaldas RUTKAUSKAS
  Minsk-.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 21.2
 1. Rutkauskas, Minsk.21.2 
 2. Sitnik, SBK O.20.3 
 3. Ignatchik, Minsk-.15.2 
 4. Knox, Minsk-200614.6 
 5. Zakhar, BG.14.1 
 6. Patupchyk, Sozh G.13.4 
 7. Hawkins, Minsk.13.0 
 8. Krisevich, Minsk-.12.9 
 9. Kojenets, Minsk.12.9 
 10. Yafremov, Grodn.12.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pavel BLIZNETS
  Sozh Gomel
  (205-C-94)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Bliznets, Sozh Gom.10.5 
 2. Rutkauskas, Minsk.9.9 
 3. Zakhar, BG.9.5 
 4. Kojenets, Minsk.7.9 
 5. Krisevich, Minsk-.6.8 
 6. Hlebovich, Grodn.6.6 
 7. Drobyshevski., Soz.6.5 
 8. Ovsepian, Rubon6.5 
 9. Knox, Minsk-20066.3 
 10. Olbrecht, SBK O.6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dzmitry KUZMIN
  Grodno-93
  (196-G-75)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Kuzmin, Grodno-935.4 
 2. Akulich, Rubon4.5 
 3. Kudrautsau, Minsk.3.9 
 4. Papruha, BG.3.3 
 5. Volk, SBK O.3.0 
 6. Ignatchik, Minsk-.2.9 
 7. Sitnik, SBK O.2.9 
 8. Korzh, Grodno-932.8 
 9. Eldridge, Minsk-20.2.5 
 10. Olbrecht, SBK O.2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dmitri AKULICH
  Rubon
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Akulich, Rubon2.3 
 2. Sapegin, Rubon2.2 
 3. Malkov, Rubon2.2 
 4. Ovsepian, Rubon2.1 
 5. Sitnik, SBK O.2.0 
 6. Yafremov, Grodn.2.0 
 7. Zaitsev, SBK O.1.9 
 8. Zakhar, BG.1.9 
 9. Fedorovskiy, Sozh1.8 
 10. Patupchyk, Sozh1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Aliaksei LASHKEVICH
  Minsk.
  (204-F-78)
  Avg: 0
 1. Lashkevich, Minsk.0.0 
 2. Akulich, Rubon0.0 
 3. Kuzmitski, BG.0.0 
 4. Sugoniako, BG.0.0 
 5. Kuzmin, Grodno-930.0 
 6. Stankevich, Sozh0.0 
 7. Kurapau, Minsk-20.0.0 
 8. Solianikov, Sozh G.0.0 
 9. Kudrautsau, Minsk.0.0 
 10. Skidan, SBK O.0.0 


First lost - by Timur Tolokh
'Minsk-2006' for the first time in three years lost in the national championship of Belarus. An impressive series of 'citizens' interrupted the capital 'Grodno-93', the one that won the last and Minsk in February 2009.

The fact that the owners lost with a score of 76:83, readers have learned from the previous issue of 'joint venture'. Now - what, how and why. However, one way to listen and failed: the head coach of the team Andrew Vasilevko Hrodna refused to comment, saying only that he was forced to do so the circumstances, but did not want to focus attention on them. Well, that's his right. From his hand we note the successful acquisition 'Grodno-93' - Ukrainian defender Stanislav Ovdeenko brought the team the lion's share of points and was good at choosing. It is interesting that before he had a few months had almost no normal match practice, finding a bench Zaporozhye 'Ferro', ZNTU. And then come to practice and issued a game, which could not accommodate any Kudryavtsev, nor Kozhenets or Lashkevich yes all 'citizens'. By the way, guests made their debut as part of another 'abarontsa' Russian and Ukrainian Igor Sukhinin central Vadim Matyukevich from the same 'Ferro', ZNTU. In the end as the hosts posted a knockdown in their recent teammate Dmitry Kuzmin.

The 'Minsk-2006', by contrast, was not possible to fill all the starting protocol - a total of ten 'bayonets', and Semeniuk did not appear on the site, and Nakich and Vergun not played enough together, and eleven minutes. Burden was placed on the shoulders of the main five basketball players. Champion urgently need to look for reserves, otherwise you will miss the 'gold' internal probe. Opponents also strengthened, which is also an example of 'Grodno-93.' And not only this but you look at the capital's second review of the match.

- This is one of our main problems - coach said the champion Andrei Krivonos. - The bench is very small, many have not play at their positions. Frankly, we have acted badly, the team looked pulled down and did not show what is needed in the games with such a rival as 'Grodno-93.' Guests, however, played well and deserved to win, especially noticeable was their desire to take two points in the end of the match. Secondly, the guys are emasculated busy schedule, the last emotion they chose a recent match against Ukrainian 'Azovmash'.

- Nevertheless, in the second quarter of your players were not only able to catch up, but also beat the competition - 37:28. It seemed to me that the 'Minsk-2006' has found his game.

- Yes, leave a small gap, but have made a total of twenty errors. In a duel with Grodno is a lot. In addition, they have proved to be a very good percentage of hits, while we are often helped them. For example, from a three-second zone they got 30 points.

Defeat, of course, disappointing, but better to let it happen now than in the decisive match for the medals. Failures are usually encouraged to rethink some things.

On the same day and at the same hour (where is the concern of fans?) Converged in Minsk in the internal battle BSUIR-RTI and 'Osipovichi.' The latter are experiencing a lot of personnel problems, increased in the pause experienced defender Sergei Charikovym, his colleague at the line by Ilya Sharipov, a well-known in the vast Belarusian basketball pivot Yuri Mishukovo. While their presence does not help, they just need to get in shape. While this is less true of the Mishukovo, was the best team in scoring and rebounding, respectively 17 and 8. Charikov is clearly tired, having made five losses. The fate of an interesting match decided the 32 th to 35 th minute, when the citizens of Minsk organized a detachment - 10:0 - and got a head start in fourteen points. The age to catch up with rival Osipovichskaya team could not, though I tried.

Premier League Round 12: Grodno-93 upset Minsk-2006 - by Eurobasket News
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Grodno-93 as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Grodno-93 smashed 5th ranked Minsk-2006 II at home 92-70. The game was mostly controlled by Grodno-93. Minsk-2006 II managed to win fourth quarter 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Grodno-93 dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Minsk-2006 II's 40. Grodno-93 forced 19 Minsk-2006 II turnovers and outrebounded them 43-28 including a 27-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Grodno-93 looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a good game for the former international forward Kanstantin Yafremov (202-86) who led his team to a victory with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Swingman Evgeni Ivanov (202-84) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) replied with 19 points and 8 rebounds for Minsk-2006 II. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Grodno-93 (11-1) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Minsk-2006 II lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth place with eight games lost. They share the position with SBK Osipovichi. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Minsk-2006 (10-1) at the home court. Hosts were defeated by Grodno-93 (11-1) 83-76. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Minsk-2006. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 10-1 record before this meeting. Worth to mention a great performance of Ukrainian guard Stanislav Ovdeenko (192-84) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 8 rebounds and Kanstantin Yafremov who added 12 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Grodno-93's coach Andrei Vasileuka allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was international forward Aliaksei Trastsinetski (200-86) with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Grodno-93 have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader. Defending champion Minsk-2006 dropped to the second place with one game lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Bottom-ranked Sozh Gomel is still unable to win any game. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their 11th consecutive match to fifth ranked BGUIR-RTI (5-7) 95-49 on Friday evening. The winners were led by Aliaksandr Kuzmitski who scored that evening 19 points and 7 rebounds. Even a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds by Pavel Bliznets did not help to save the game for Sozh Gomel. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BGUIR-RTI have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. Sozh Gomel at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in Minsk supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Rubon (7-5) played at the court of 5th ranked Minsk-2006 II (4-8). Rubon smashed Minsk-2006 II 92-66. The best player for the winners was Dmitri Akulich who scored 18 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. 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. Rubon have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 7-5 record having four points less than leader Grodno-93. Minsk-2006 II lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth place 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 12 SBK Osipovichi was beaten by BGUIR-RTI on the road 83-69.

Sozh Gomel - BGUIR-RTI 49-95

Bottom-ranked Sozh Gomel is still unable to win any game. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their 11th consecutive match to fifth ranked BGUIR-RTI (5-7) 95-49 on Friday evening. The game without a history. BGUIR-RTI led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. BGUIR-RTI forced 21 Sozh Gomel turnovers and outrebounded them 46-34 including 32 on the defensive glass. The winners were led by forward Aliaksandr Kuzmitski (198-92) who scored that evening 19 points and 7 rebounds and forward Nikolay Fokeev (200-84) supported him with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Four BGUIR-RTI players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds by center Pavel Bliznets (205-94) did not help to save the game for Sozh Gomel. Center Igor Drobyshevskiy (206-93) added 7 points and 10 rebounds. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BGUIR-RTI have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. Sozh Gomel at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
BGUIR-RTI: A.Kuzmitski 19+7reb+3ast, N.Fokeev 17+5reb+2ast, A.Papruha 14+5reb, K.Volodkin 13+1reb+2ast, A.Hrumiantsau 12+10reb, G.Zakhar 7+7reb+3ast
Sozh Gomel: Y.Patupchyk 15+3reb+1ast, P.Bliznets 13+11reb+1ast, D.Fedorovskiy 10+4reb, I.Drobyshevskiy 7+10reb+2ast, A.Shestilovskiy 4+2reb+1ast, A.Shemet 0
gschID: 163142


Minsk-2006 II - Rubon 66-92

The game in Minsk supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Rubon (7-5) played at the court of 5th ranked Minsk-2006 II (4-8). Rubon smashed Minsk-2006 II 92-66. The game was mostly controlled by Rubon. Minsk-2006 II was better in second period 24-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rubon forced 28 Minsk-2006 II turnovers and outrebounded them 52-40 including a 22-9 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Dmitri Akulich (192-86) who scored 18 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Forward Dimitri Sivalko (199-85) chipped in 18 points and 8 rebounds. Akulich is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Rubon players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) who recorded a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds (on 17-of-19 shooting from the field) and forward Yaraslau Kurapau (200-91) added 13 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. Rubon have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 7-5 record having four points less than leader Grodno-93. Minsk-2006 II lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth place with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Rubon: D.Sivalko 18+8reb, D.Akulich 18+7reb+6ast, A.Kachan 12+1reb+1ast, V.Ovsepian 11+6reb+3ast, M.Ovsepian 10+8reb+1ast, D.Shilovich 8+5reb
Minsk-2006 II: R.Rutkauskas 38+15reb+2ast, Y.Kurapau 13+7reb+3ast, L.Malakhau 4+1reb+5ast, A.Sharamet 4, A.Korneenkov 4+8reb, A.Malyavko 3+6reb+1ast
gschID: 167802


Grodno-93 - Minsk-2006 II 92-70

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Grodno-93 as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Grodno-93 smashed 5th ranked Minsk-2006 II at home 92-70. The game was mostly controlled by Grodno-93. Minsk-2006 II managed to win fourth quarter 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Grodno-93 dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Minsk-2006 II's 40. Grodno-93 forced 19 Minsk-2006 II turnovers and outrebounded them 43-28 including a 27-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Grodno-93 looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a good game for the former international forward Kanstantin Yafremov (202-86) who led his team to a victory with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Swingman Evgeni Ivanov (202-84) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) replied with 19 points and 8 rebounds and guard Valentin Ignatchik (192) added 19 points in the effort for Minsk-2006 II. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Grodno-93 (11-1) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Minsk-2006 II lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth place with eight games lost. They share the position with SBK Osipovichi. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Grodno-93: E.Ivanov 17+3reb, K.Yafremov 16+7reb+6ast, D.Kuzmin 12+4reb+4ast, S.Vasilevich 9+7reb+1ast, Y.Hlebovich 9+7reb+1ast, A.Mastou 8+3reb+4ast
Minsk-2006 II: V.Ignatchik 19+2reb+2ast, R.Rutkauskas 19+8reb+2ast, V.Krisevich 9+4reb+3ast, A.Vashkevich 7+2reb, Y.Kurapau 4+3reb+1ast, A.Minayeu 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 163140


Minsk-2006 - Grodno-93 76-83

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Minsk-2006 (10-1) at the home court. Hosts were defeated by Grodno-93 (11-1) 83-76. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Minsk-2006. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 10-1 record before this meeting. The guests were ahead by 1 point but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 19-11 run, which allowed them to win the game. Grodno-93 forced 20 Minsk-2006 turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of Ukrainian guard Stanislav Ovdeenko (192-84) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 8 rebounds and the former international forward Kanstantin Yafremov (202-86) who added 12 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Five Grodno-93 players scored in double figures. Grodno-93's coach Andrei Vasileuka allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was international forward Aliaksei Trastsinetski (200-86) with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international forward Aliaksei Lashkevich (204-78) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Grodno-93 have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader. Defending champion Minsk-2006 dropped to the second place with one game lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Grodno-93: S.Ovdeenko 25+8reb+2ast, K.Yafremov 12+11reb+1ast, Y.Hlebovich 12+3reb, D.Kuzmin 11+1reb+2ast, E.Ivanov 10+3reb+1ast, I.Konuyshenko 6+2reb+1ast
Minsk-2006: A.Trastsinetski 24+9reb+4ast, A.Lashkevich 18+5reb+1ast, A.Kojenets 12+6reb+1ast, J.Hawkins 7+7reb+2ast, U.Charko 6+1reb, J.Knox 5+4reb
gschID: 163141


BGUIR-RTI - SBK Osipovichi 83-69

Everything could happen in Minsk at the game between two tied teams. Both fifth ranked BGUIR-RTI and 5th ranked SBK Osipovichi had identical 4-7 record. This time BGUIR-RTI used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Osipovichi 83-69. It looked good early as SBK Osipovichi took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then BGUIR-RTI had a 15-8 second period charge getting the lead and SBK Osipovichi was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 69-83. The best player for the winners was swingman Genniadiy Zakhar (198-92) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (205-91) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Yury Mishukov (205-85) who recorded 17 points and 8 rebounds and guard Kiril Sitnik (190-89) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively. BGUIR-RTI have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. SBK Osipovichi lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
BGUIR-RTI: G.Zakhar 20+11reb, A.Hrumiantsau 20+6reb+2ast, A.Kuzmitski 12+4reb, E.Sugoniako 9+11reb+2ast, D.Azaare 9+2reb, A.Papruha 7+7reb+5ast
SBK Osipovichi: Y.Mishukov 17+8reb+1ast, K.Sitnik 16+5reb+2ast, A.Svirydov 12+2reb+1ast, D.Zaitsev 7+1reb+1ast, A.Olbrecht 7+7reb+5ast, V.Skidan 5+1reb
gschID: 163139




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


Standings - Division I
D1 Standings
 1. Spirou 11-3 
 2. Oostende 9-5 
 3. Antwerp 8-5 
 4. Aalstar 8-5 
 5. M.Hainaut 7-6 
 6. Leuven 6-6 
 7. Liege 5-7 
 8. Gent 5-10 
 9. Verviers-Pep. 1-13 


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


Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
 1. Igokea 14-1 
 2. Bosna 11-2 
 3. Capljina 11-4 
 4. Varda HE 9-5 
 5. Leotar 9-6 
 6. Mladost 8-7 
 7. Hercegovac 6-8 
 8. Servitium 6-9 
 9. Borac Nektar 5-9 
 10. Zrinjski HT 5-10 
 11. Celik 4-11 
 12. Brotnjo 4-11 
 13. Vogosca 3-12 
Play in international cups:
 1. Siroki WWin 0-0 


Novipiu Casale Monferato lands Jasmin Hukic - by Eurobasket News
Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Italy. The experienced Bosnian forward penned a deal with Novipiu Casale Monferato for rest of the season. Hukic started it with Enisey Krasnoyarsk where he had 9.4 ppg, 4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 9 games in VTB United League. He also added 8.4 ppg and 2 rpg for 8 games in EuroChallenge, while his numbers in Russian league were lower. Enisey and Hukic parted ways few days ago. Jasmin Hukic spent last season with Ukrainian Donetsk helping them to reach the Playoff Finals. In 2009/10, he was a member of Benetton Treviso. For 27 games in SerieA, Hukic averaged 7 points and 2.9 rebounds. In the past, he played for Union Olimpija, Prokom Trefl Sopot, Ural Great Perm, Hemofarm, Hapoel Tel-Aviv and Sloboda Tuzla. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Forward of the Year -08. He won Adriatic league titles with Hemofarm and Union Olimpija, Slovenian titles with Olimpija and Polish title with Prokom. Jasmin Hukic played for the Bosnian NT from 1998 to 2008.

Standings - D2 Leagues
D2 Standings
1. Liga RS
 1. Radnik B. 9-0
 2. Plus Gradanski 8-1
 3. Feniks 6-2
 4. Rudar 6-3
 5. Bratunac 4-5
 6. Prijedor 4-5
 7. Sutjeska 2-6
 8. Wolf Security 2-6
 9. Drina 2-7
 10. Borac 1-8
A1 Liga
 1. Kakanj 6-0
 2. Bosnjak 5-1
 3. Gradina 5-2
 4. Play Off 4-2
 5. Spars Sarajevo 4-2
 6. Student 3-3
 7. Donji Vakuf 2-4
 8. Brcko 2-5
 9. Limometal 2-5
 10. Orlovik 1-5
 11. Igman 1-6
Liga Herceg-Bosne
 1. Vitez 8-0
 2. Posusje 6-2
 3. Kiseljak 5-3
 4. Grude 4-4
 5. Livno 4-4
 6. Busovaca 3-5
 7. Rama 3-5
 8. Siroki II 3-5
 9. Tomislav 0-8


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


Uniceub/BRB getting back to winning ways - by Eurobasket News
NBB defending champions Uniceub/BRB are picking up tempo. They claimed the third win in a row after quite a slow start to the championship. Uniceub/BRB shot down Minas 81:69 on the road to improve at 8-5 record. Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) scored 25 points to pace the visitors. Minas led by one point 59:58 heading into the fourth term. However Uniceub/BRB went on a 23:10 run in the final frame to seal the winning outcome at the end. Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) and Lucas Tischer (208-C-83) finished with 13 points each for the winners. Leandro Da Silva (203-F/C-81) accounted for 16 points in the loss.
Flamengo stayed on top of the ladder following the 12th win. They knocked down visiting Tijuca 86:71. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) scored 29 points to lead the effort. David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) provided 19 points in the win. Rodrigo Bahia Bispo (206-C/F-79) answered with 20 points for Tijuca.
Pinheiros/Sky also celebrated the 12th win in the season. They bettered Paulistano 90:80 away from home. Marquinhos Vieira (207-F-84) had 24 points for the visitors. Shamell Stallworth (196-SG-80, agency: Interperformances, college: USF) accounted for 22 points in the victory. Betinho Nardi Duarte (195-G/F-88) reacted with 20 points for Paulistano.

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


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


Samokov to host Men Cup Finals - by Maria Mitzova
Samokov was chosen to host the Final 8 of the Men Competition for the Bulgarian Cup. Ladies Final 4 will go to Rousse.
The offer from Rilski Sportist Samokov was the only one in the offices of Bulgarian Basketball Federation until the deadline, and so was that of Dunav Rousse for the Ladies Tournament.
Men's Final 8 will start with quarterfinals on Feb 16th and the final is on Feb 19th.
Women's Cup will be in two days - semifinals on Feb 11th and final on Feb 12th.

Note: There is a slight chance that Men's Cup will be moved to Sofia, as such proposal is thought on, to gather funds for the cancer treatment of basketball writer Racho Kolev.

*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Canadian CIS round 18 best performance: Jahmal Jones - by Eurobasket News
International point guard Jahmal Jones (183-PG-91) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Ryerson, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
The 20-year old player was the main contributor (24 points, eight rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Toronto Univ. (#5, 5-8) 73-62. Ryerson maintains the 3rd position in Canadian CIS. Ryerson is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-7 record. In the team's last game Jones had a remarkable 87.5% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Ryerson and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Jahmal Jones averages this season 15.4ppg and 4.2apg.

The second best player in last round's games was -year old Maxwell Allin (193-F) of league's leader Laurier. Allin had a very good evening with a double-double of 27 points and 11 rebounds. It was enough for Laurier to edge the lower-ranked Guelph (#6, 7-6) 97-91. This victory allowed Laurier to move up to 1st position in the standings. His team lost just two games this season, while they won 11 matches. Allin is one of the most experienced players at Laurier and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was international forward Tyson Hinz (199-F-91) of league's top team Carleton. Hinz scored 22 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Carleton, leading his team to a 74-34 easy win against #2 ranked Ottawa in a game of the week. Carleton have amazing season winning all 13 games without a single defeat. Hinz turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Hinz has a very solid season. In 13 games in Canada he scored 15.2ppg. He also has 5.0rpg and FGP: 67.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Alex Hill (196-F) of Toronto Univ. - 28 points and 9 rebounds
5. Adam Bering (201-F-88) of Guelph - 20 points and 8 rebounds
6. Andrew Kraus (188-G-86) of Brock - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Enrico Diloreto (186-G-90) of Windsor - 26 points and 4 rebounds
8. Josh Collins (186-G-90) of Windsor - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Kareem Malcolm (183-G) of Guelph - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Jameson Tipping (196-G) of Brock - 25 points and 5 rebounds

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

Rainmen can't handle Lightning - by Eurobasket News
It was appropriate that weather dominated the local news stories, because it was the London Lightning hosting the Halifax Rainmen on the court at the John Labatt Centre in front of 3224 fans. These two clubs are the toast of NBL Canada, so it was no surprise that the hotly contested affair produced a 111-94 victory for the Lightning.

'We played very well,' explained forward Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC). 'We were all on the same page in the fourth quarter and although we had some defensive lapses, we played together the entire game and that won it for us.'

Ultimately, it was a tale of two halves. A close game out at the break became a blowout early in the 2nd stanza. Gabe Freeman wasn't the only Lightning end- ing the night with a double double, Lightning's Shawn Daniels (6'8''-F-79, college: Utah St.) finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds. A team effort for the entire four quarters had 6 Light- ning players ending the night in double figures.

London hits the road for the next 10 days. The Lightning do not return to the John Labatt Centre until January 29th against Saint John at 2 pm.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Standings - LIBSUR
DIMAYOR Standings
 1. U.Concepcion 20-0 
 2. Liceo Mixto 18-2 
 3. Dep.Espanol 14-6 
 4. U.Espanola 9-11 
 5. San Luis 6-12 
 6. Sokol de Antof. 6-12 
 7. U.Catolica 5-15 
 8. Munic.Curacavi 0-20 


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


A1 Standings
A1 Standings
 1. KK Split 9-3 
 2. Zadar 9-3 
 3. Jolly 8-4 
 4. Zabok 7-5 
 5. Kvarner 2010 6-6 
 6. Svjetlost 5-6 
 7. Alkar Sinj 5-6 
 8. Darda 5-7 
 9. Borik 5-7 
 10. Krizevci 5-7 
 11. Dubrovnik 1-11 
Play in international cups:
 1. Cedevita - 
 2. Cibona - 
 3. KK Zagreb CO - 


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. CEZ Nymburk 23-1 
 2. BK Prostejov 19-4 
 3. BK Pardubice 18-6 
 4. BC Kolin 16-7 
 5. BK Decin 16-7 
 6. USK Praha 14-9 
 7. NH Ostrava 11-12 
 8. Levice 8-14 
 9. Chomutov 8-15 
 10. Svitavy 8-15 
 11. Usti n/Labem 6-17 
 12. Plzen 5-17 
 13. Inter Bratislava 5-18 
 14. B&W Opava 4-19 


Standings - D2
1Liga Standings
 1. J.Hradec 18-0 
 2. Sparta Praha 15-3 
 3. Proton Zlin 13-5 
 4. Opava B 13-5 
 5. Sokol Prazsky 11-7 
 6. Trutnov 10-7 
 7. Sokol H.Kralove 10-8 
 8. Liberec 9-9 
 9. Vysehrad 7-11 
 10. Benesov 6-11 
 11. Prostejov B 5-12 
 12. Litomerice 4-13 
 13. Kladno 1-16 
 14. Mlada Boleslav 1-16 


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Keaton GRANT
  Levice
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 21.1
 1. Grant, Levice21.1 
 2. Sedmak, USK Praha19.6 
 3. Henderson, Levice18.5 
 4. Wright, Chomutov17.9 
 5. Lowery, Chomutov17.7 
 6. Hruban, USK Praha17.3 
 7. McFadden, Usti n.16.9 
 8. Houska, BK Decin16.0 
 9. Wilson, CEZ N.16.0 
 10. Longmire, Usti n.15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Votroubek, USK P.9.1 
 2. Naymick, CEZ N.8.4 
 3. Meno, Svitavy8.3 
 4. Arnold, BK Pardu.8.1 
 5. Gadri-N., BK Prost.7.4 
 6. Peterson, BK Prost.7.3 
 7. Houska, BK Decin6.9 
 8. Pesic, Inter B.6.9 
 9. Hughes, NH Ostrava6.8 
 10. Manousos, NH Os.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Michal SOTNAR
  USK Praha
  (189-PG-92)
  Avg: 5
 1. Sotnar, USK Praha5.0 
 2. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 3. Barnes, BC Kolin4.3 
 4. Vrubl, Plzen4.1 
 5. George, Svitavy3.9 
 6. Lawrence, CEZ N.3.8 
 7. Ames, BC Kolin3.6 
 8. Boyer, BK Decin3.6 
 9. McFadden, Usti n.3.4 
 10. Moravec, Svitavy3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Derek WRIGHT
  Chomutov
  (175-G-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 2. McFadden, Usti n.2.3 
 3. Klecka, B&W Opava2.2 
 4. Ames, BC Kolin2.2 
 5. Sirina, B&W Opava2.1 
 6. Pumprla, CEZ N.2.1 
 7. Grant, Levice1.9 
 8. Wright, NH Ostrava1.9 
 9. Inge, NH Ostrava1.8 
 10. Lowery, Chomutov1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew NAYMICK
  CEZ N.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Naymick, CEZ N.1.6 
 2. Hughes, NH Ostrava1.5 
 3. Miklosik, B&W O.1.3 
 4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.3 
 5. Grant, Levice1.1 
 6. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 7. Meno, Svitavy1.0 
 8. Pumprla, CEZ N.0.9 
 9. Henderson, Levice0.8 
 10. Votroubek, USK P.0.7 


*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Ligaen Round 19 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Fifth-ranked Aalborg (7-11) gave a tough game to third ranked Naestved (12-7) on Thursday. Naestved managed to secure only three-point victory 91-88. However their fans expected easier game. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for Corin Henry (180-PG-88, college: Tarleton St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Naestved maintains third place with 12-7 record having four points less than leader Bakken. Aalborg at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 11 games lost. Naestved will face Horsholm (#5) on the road in the next round. Aalborg will play against the league's leader Bakken in Aarhus.

The most impressive stats of the last round was 23 points, 17 rebounds and 4 blocks by D'Mario Curry of Aabyhoj.

Naestved - Aalborg 91-88 OT

Fifth-ranked Aalborg (7-11) gave a tough game to third ranked Naestved (12-7) on Thursday. Naestved managed to secure only three-point victory 91-88. However their fans expected easier game. The hosts trailed by 15 points at the halftime before their 28-12 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 11-8. Naestved made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Aalborg turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Naestved made 8 blocks. Aalborg was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for point guard Corin Henry (180-88, college: Tarleton St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Jordan Glynn (200-89, college: SF Austin, agency: I.D.S. Law) helped adding 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. At the losing side point guard Ryan White (177-88, college: Texas St.) responded with 40 points (!!!), 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and forward Tony Bishop (201-89, college: Texas St.) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Naestved maintains third place with 12-7 record having four points less than leader Bakken. Aalborg at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 11 games lost. Naestved will face Horsholm (#5) on the road in the next round. Aalborg will play against the league's leader Bakken in Aarhus.
Top scorers:
Naestved: C.Henry 23+6reb+5ast, M.Creppy 20+4reb+3ast, J.Glynn 18+11reb+4ast, P.Johansen 11+8reb+2ast, N.Brasas 9+7reb, M.Hoirup 4+2reb+1ast
Aalborg: R.White 40+9reb+4ast, R.Lauridsen 16+1reb+4ast, M.Rasmussen 13+5reb, T.Bishop 11+10reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 4+3reb, S.Hansen 3
gschID: 136179


Falcon - Svendborg 82-95

Very expected game when 10th ranked Falcon (5-14) was defeated at home by second ranked Svendborg (17-2) 95-82 on Thursday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Svendborg forced 19 Falcon turnovers. It was a great evening for the former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 24 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). The former international guard Chanan Colman (191-84, college: Chipola) helped adding 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. At the losing side Mexican Robert Fields responded with 20 points and 7 assists and the former international guard Julian McFarlane (184-86) scored 18 points and 4 assists. 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. Svendborg maintains second place with 17-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Bakken. Newly promoted Falcon stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Svendborg will face Aabyhoj (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Falcon will play against Horsens IC in Horsens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: A.Darboe 24+7reb+3ast, N.Degn-Andersen 17+1reb+2ast, M.Plannthin 12+4reb+2ast, C.Colman 12+8reb+5ast, M.Kingsley 11+3reb+1ast, D.Vinson 8+8reb+1ast
Falcon: R.Fields 20+4reb+7ast, J.McFarlane 18+2reb+4ast, J.Rottgardt 11+3reb+1ast, P.Ba 10+10reb+2ast, C.Nielsen 7+6reb, P.Christiansen 7+3reb+3ast
gschID: 136180


Horsholm - Horsens IC 96-90

Rather predictable result when sixth ranked Horsholm (8-11) defeated at home 9th ranked Horsens IC (6-13) 96-90 on Thursday. Horsens IC trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 30-21 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 90-96 at the end of the game. Horsholm dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Horsens IC's 32 and made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American power forward Joe Benjamin (201-83, college: W.Virginia St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 24 points and 6 rebounds. point guard Jonas Bro (186-87) helped adding 20 points. At the losing side American forward Will Harris (198-86, college: Albany) responded with 27 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. Four Horsholm and five Horsens IC players scored in double figures. Horsholm moved-up to fourth place, which they share with SISU. Horsens IC lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 13 games lost. Horsholm will face higher ranked Naestved (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Horsens IC will play against Falcon (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: J.Benjamin 24+6reb, P.Hertz 20+1reb, J.Bro 20+2reb+3ast, B.Colas 12+6reb+1ast, A.Haas 6+2reb, A.Bak 6+2reb+3ast
Horsens IC: W.Harris 27+7reb+2ast, M.St.John 21+10reb+1ast, S.Einarsson 14+1reb, H.Schur 10+5reb+1ast, D.Sattler 10+3reb+5ast, J.Larsen 5+2reb
gschID: 136176


Vaerlose - Bakken 66-79

Not a big story in a game when 7th ranked Vaerlose (7-12) was defeated at home by first ranked Bakken (17-1) 79-66 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-66. It was a great evening for German center Mike Dejworek (210-87, college: Citadel) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) helped adding 17 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) responded with 19 points and 4 assists and American power forward Christopher Sprinker (205, college: Cent.Washington) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Vaerlose's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bakken have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 17-1 record. Loser Vaerlose keeps the seventh position with 12 games lost. Bakken will face Aalborg (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Vaerlose will play against SISU in Copenhagen.
Top scorers:
Bakken: M.Dejworek 18+7reb+1ast, J.Alexander 17+6reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 15+3reb+4ast, N.Iversen 11+8reb+4ast, C.Christoffersen 8+5reb, H.Falsvig 3+1ast
Vaerlose: M.Rasmussen 19+1reb+4ast, C.Sprinker 18+6reb, A.Karason 13+8reb, R.Delk 11+5reb+5ast, R.Larsen 4+2reb, S.Jensen 1+2reb+3ast
gschID: 136177


Aabyhoj - SISU 79-68

There was a surprise result when ninth ranked Aabyhoj (7-12) beat at home 4th placed SISU (8-11) 79-68 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-68. Aabyhoj had a 25-13 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for American forward D'Mario Curry (201-85, college: Lincoln Memorial) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 17 rebounds and 4 blocks. International guard Rasmus Soby Dalboge (191-89) helped adding 26 points and 4 assists. At the losing side American forward Donald Rutherford (198-87, college: Catawba) responded with 21 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) scored 20 points and 4 steals. Four SISU players scored in double figures. Aabyhoj moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Vaerlose. Loser SISU keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Aabyhoj will face league's second-placed Svendborg on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SISU will play against Vaerlose.
Top scorers:
Aabyhoj: R.Soby Dalboge 26+1reb+4ast, D.Curry 23+17reb+3ast, D.Phillips 10+8reb+1ast, D.Jukic 7+4reb+1ast, J.Wang 5+2reb, O.Sigurdsson 4+1reb+2ast
SISU: D.Rutherford 21+9reb+2ast, M.Dennis 20+2reb+1ast, D.Harder 12+3reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 10+6reb+5ast, M.Flowers 5+1reb, A.Meyer 0
gschID: 136178




Standings - Basketligaen
Ligaen Standings
 1. Bakken 17-1 
 2. Svendborg 17-2 
 3. Naestved 12-7 
 4. SISU 8-11 
 5. Horsholm 8-11 
 6. Aalborg 7-11 
 7. Aabyhoj 7-12 
 8. Vaerlose 7-12 
 9. Horsens IC 6-13 
 10. Falcon 5-14 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 26.5
 1. White, Aalborg26.5 
 2. Harris, Horsens IC23.9 
 3. Henry, Naestved22.5 
 4. Rutherford, SISU20.4 
 5. Curry, Aabyhoj19.2 
 6. Kingsley, Svendborg18.9 
 7. Rasmussen, Vaerl.18.9 
 8. Bishop, Aalborg17.7 
 9. Dennis, SISU16.0 
 10. Colman, Svendborg15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jordan GLYNN
  Naestved
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Glynn, Naestved10.9 
 2. Bishop, Aalborg10.5 
 3. Curry, Aabyhoj10.4 
 4. St.John, Horsens9.9 
 5. Benjamin, Horsholm9.2 
 6. Colas, Horsholm8.6 
 7. Osgood-R., Vaerlose8.4 
 8. Phillips, Aabyhoj8.4 
 9. Harris, Horsens IC8.4 
 10. Johansen, Naestv.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Henry, Naestved4.7 
 2. White, Aalborg4.6 
 3. Sattler, Horsens IC4.2 
 4. Colman, Svendborg4.1 
 5. Elgmork, Aalborg4.0 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon3.7 
 7. Curry, Aabyhoj3.4 
 8. Nielsen, SISU3.3 
 9. Iversen, Bakken3.1 
 10. Nielsen, Bakken3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.6
 1. Henry, Naestved4.6 
 2. Wire, Vaerlose2.9 
 3. White, Aalborg2.8 
 4. Dennis, SISU2.4 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg2.1 
 6. Sattler, Horsens IC2.0 
 7. Nielsen, SISU1.8 
 8. Plannthin, Svend.1.8 
 9. Kristiansen, Aalbo.1.7 
 10. Curry, Aabyhoj1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Harrison, SISU2.3 
 2. Colas, Horsholm1.9 
 3. Phillips, Aabyhoj1.9 
 4. Curry, Aabyhoj1.8 
 5. Christoffers., Bak.1.8 
 6. Bishop, Aalborg1.7 
 7. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.2 
 8. Eleraky, Aalborg1.0 
 9. Larsen, Vaerlose0.9 
 10. Vinson, Svendborg0.8 


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Iowa E. - Dakota W. 110-106
The 2011 NBA D-League Champion Iowa Energy put on a show for a crowd of school children with a 110-106 victory over the Dakota Wizards at the Energy's annual Education Celebration game. Iowa stormed out of the gates much to the delight of the youthful crowd as a Mike Efevberha driving layup put the Energy up 17-4 with 5:01 remaining in the 1st quarter. Dakota fought back behind the hot hand of guard Maurice Baker (6'1''-PG-79, college: Oklahoma St.), narrowing the score to 29-22 heading into the 2nd quarter. Baker finished the quarter with nine points. Dakota continued to chip into the Energy lead, as a 3-pointer from Edwin Ubiles (6'6''-G/F-86, college: Siena) cut the Energy lead to 45-44 late in the 2nd quarter. After an Energy miss, Justin Johnson (6'2''-PG-88, college: Concordia Irvine) nailed a jumper to give Dakota a 46-45 lead, their first of the game. The teams traded buckets throughout the rest of the quarter with a dunk by Washington Wizards assignee Hamady N'diaye put Iowa ahead 55-53 heading into the halftime break. The Energy broke open a close game in the 3rd quarter, using a series of mini-runs to take a 82-73 lead into the 4th quarter. Just as it seemed that Iowa was in control, Baker and Ubiles got hot for the Wizards. With Iowa up 91-81 and 8:31 remaining in the game, the two visiting players scored every point for Dakota during a 15-6 run to make the score 97-96 in favor of Iowa. With the game in the balance, the Energy defense came up big, holding Dakota scoreless for a 2:54 stretch to give Iowa the opportunity to stretch the lead to 105-98 with under a minute left. Clutch free throw shooting iced the game for Iowa, as Andrew Drevo (6'8''-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) and Curtis Stinson shot a combined 7 of 8 from the free throw line to secure the victory. Drevo led Iowa with 18 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists while Nick Murphy added 18 points and N'diaye finished with 16 in the game. The win moves Iowa to 15-5 on the season, a full 5.0 games ahead of 2nd place Springfield in the NBA D-League's Eastern Conference. Iowa's record is better through 20 games than it was last year, when the Energy started 14-6 on their way to the D-League title. Baker scored 34 points while Ubiles added 26 for Dakota. The loss drops the Wizards to 9-11 on the year. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Maine RC 93-91
No one saw this ending coming. Leading nearly the entire contest, the Maine Red Claws gave up a 13-point fourth-quarter lead, losing 93-91 to the Springfield Armor on a dunk at the buzzer. It was the fifth loss in six games to the Armor (11-10) this season, the lone win coming here last Saturday. Maine (7-15) held a 13-point lead with nine minutes, 22 seconds remaining in the game following back-to-back baskets by Courtney Pigram (6'1''-G-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) (14 points). But the Armor went on a 15-1 run to take the lead at 4:26. Jerome Randle's 3-pointer gave the Claws the lead back, but Springfield pulled ahead and held a four-point lead with just under two minutes left. Lawrence Hill (6'8''-F-87, college: Stanford) (16 points, 10 rebounds) hit one of two foul shots, then with 30.1 seconds left Dominic Calegari (14 points) sank his fourth 3-pointer to tie the game at 91-91. The game came down to the final possession, the Armor inbounding the ball with two seconds remaining. Armor guard Lance Hurdle fired a 3-pointer from the corner that teammate L.D. Williams caught and dunked at the buzzer to win the game. 'It was hard-fought and both teams were making some plays but more mistakes and I thought we kept attempting to clean up stuff on both ends, and we did it to get up 13,' Maine Coach Dave Leitao said. 'Then we let down and when you let down in this league no lead is ever safe. 'When you allow a game to come down to the last possession because you leave plays out there then you really can't get upset about something happening adversely at the end because you had an opportunity to clean it up far before then.' The bench gave the Red Claws a big lift in the first half as they went into the locker room with a 52-44 edge on the Armor. Morris Almond, in his first game back with the Red Claws since leaving after the 2009-10 season to play overseas, fit right in as he came off the bench in the first half. Maine's bench not only outscored Springfield's bench in the first half, it also outscored the Red Claws starting five. Almond scored 8, Pigram 9 and Calegari 8 points. Maine's bench had 27 points, two more than the starters. One starter who had an exceptional first half was Hill. The Stanford product had 13 points and 7 rebounds to lead the Red Claws. Hill not only hit a 3-pointer, but he was successful in transition, beating the Armor big men down the court and exploiting mismatches under the basket for easy scores. The only negative for the Red Claws in the first half was trouble at the foul line. They made just 6 of 11 free throws, Hill missing two in one trip to the stripe and Pigram missing two of three after getting fouled on a 3-point attempt. Maine continued to play well in the third quarter, the defense keeping the Armor from putting together any sort of a run and going into the fourth quarter with a 75-66 lead. Ricky Davis finished with 14 and Almond 15. The Armor were led by Williams with 19. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Sioux Falls S. - Rio Grande VV 120-125
The Rio Grande Vipers defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 125-120 Tuesday night at the Sioux Falls Arena. Rio Grande Valley won the shoot-out despite Sioux Falls connecting on a season-high 14 3-pointers. Rio Grande Valley (13-9) took charge in the first quarter as Kelvin Lewis (6'4''-G-88, college: Houston) and Greg Smith (6'10''-C-91, college: Fresno St.) scored 10 points apiece, doing most of their damage in the paint. After one quarter Rio Grande Valley led 32-24. Things didn't get much better for Sioux Falls (6-16) in the second quarter as Rio Grande Valley built their lead to 65-51 at halftime behind aggressive outlet passes and transition buckets. Sioux Falls flipped the scipt on Rio Grande Valley in the third quarter, matching their aggressive play. Sioux Falls outscored Rio Grande Valley by 15 points in the third to take a 90-89 lead into the fourth. Patrick Ewing Jr. (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown) scored 17 of his 25 points in the third. Rio Grande Valley once again took control early in the fourth quarter with a 13-3 run. Sioux Falls battled their way back and cut the deficit to three (123-120) with a layup by Ewing, Jr. with 24.1 seconds left in the game. Dominique Coleman (6'3''-G-84, college: Colorado) and Trey Gilder trapped Willie Warren at half-court and a jump ball was called with 17.6 seconds left. Gilder won the tip and Gabe Pruitt missed a potential game-tying 3-pointer with 2.1 seconds to go. Damian Saunders secured the rebound and converted both free throws to ice the game. Smith had a monster double-double with 28 points and 13 rebounds. Ben Uzoh contributed a double-double of his own with 23 points and 12 rebounds while also adding seven assists. Ewing, Jr. had his finest game since being re-acquired, finishing with season-highs in points (25) and rebounds (5) to go along with four assists in a reserve role. Casey Mitchell posted season-highs in points (31) and assists (6) off the bench. Sioux Falls plays host to Fort Wayne at 7 p.m. CT on Friday at the Sioux Falls Arena. Rio Grande Valley continues their road trip with a matchup against Reno at 9 p.m. CT. Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Texas L. - Tulsa 66ers 108-103
Dwight Buycks came off the bench to pour in a season-high 30 points, but the Tulsa 66ers fell to the Texas Legends 108-103 Wednesday night in NBA D-League action at Dr Pepper Arena in Frisco, Texas. Keys: Leading the Legends was Sean Williams (6'10''-F-86, college: Boston Coll.) with 28 points and nine rebounds. Dominique Jones (6'4''-G-88, college: S.Florida) added 26 points and three steals. Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) recorded his 13th double-double of the season with 10 points and 16 rebounds for Tulsa. Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) connected on 4-of-6 shots from long range on his way to 24 points. Also scoring in double figures for Tulsa was Brady Morningstar with 16 and Robert Vaden with 10. Notes: Tulsa falls to 10-12. Texas improves to 9-13. Up next: At Iowa, 7 p.m. Saturday. Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Austin T. - Canton C. 114-97
The Austin Toros improved to 9-1 at home with a 114-97 win over the Canton Charge at Cedar Park Center Wednesday night. The Charge hit their first seven shots of the game and jumped to an early 20-11 lead, but the Toros used an 18-6 run and led by three after the first quarter. The Toros continued the momentum in the second quarter, outscoring the visitors 35-25 to go up 64-51. In the second half, the Toros led by as many as 19 and finally winning by 17. Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-G/F-88, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: W.Virginia) scored a season-high 21 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Eric Dawson (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.) added his eleventh double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Leo Lyons added a double-double of his own with 15 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington) had another strong outing with 21 points. Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Tulsa 66ers - Canton C. 103-110 OT
Marcus Lewis and Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) each recorded double-doubles and Jerome Dyson added 17 points and a season-high nine assists, but the Tulsa 66ers (10-11) were clipped in overtime by the Canton Charge (10-10) by a 110-103 final at home Monday evening inside the Tulsa Convention Center. Lewis earned his 12th double-double of the season with 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Owens recorded 17 points and 10 boards for his first double-double. The 66ers, who played in their second overtime contest in the last three games, were also led in scoring by Brady Morningstar with 21 points on 7-of-8 shooting, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. Dwight Buycks added 19 points and Robert Vaden scored 10. Defensively, Tulsa forced 18 Charge turnovers and posted a season-high 12 blocked shots, including five from Owens. 'We battled to the very end again tonight and came up short, but it wasn't because of our effort,' 66ers head coach Dale Osbourne said. 'Looking back at the game, we have some areas defensively where we can improve. I fully expect our guys to keep their heads up and continue playing hard for each other.' Offensively, the 66ers racked up 27 assists, just two short of their season-high. Keith McLeod (6'3''-PG-79, college: Bowling Green) led the Charge in scoring with a game-high 32 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including 5-of-6 from long range. Tyrell Biggs (6'8''-F-86, college: Pittsburgh) collected eight rebounds to lead the visiting team. The Tulsa 66ers return to the court this Wednesday, Jan. 18, with a road contest at Texas. The game against the Legends is set to tip at 7 p.m. CT inside Dr. Pepper Arena. Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Dakota W. 100-108
Playing their final home game of the month, the Mad Ants suffered a 108-100 loss to the Dakota Wizards on Tuesday at Memorial Coliseum. The Ants (8-13) begin a five-game road trip Friday at Sioux Falls, S.D., and wont return home until Feb. 2, when they face Maine. Tommy Smith (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Arizona St.), Dakota's 6-foot-10 center whose previous high this season was 14 points, lit up the Ants for 30, as the Wizards controlled the offensive glass in the final half to erase a 53-46 halftime deficit. Rookie guard Cameron Jones (6'4''-G-89, college: N.Arizona) led the Ants with points. Fort Wayne played without leading scorer Ron Howard, who is out an estimated two weeks with a broken thumb. Additionally, the Ants played most of the game without reserve forward Ramon Harris, who was fouled midway through the second quarter, took a spill beneath the basket, and did not return. Harris spent most of the second half on the Fort Wayne bench in street clothes. Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net



Standings
D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Iowa E. 15-5 
 2. Springfield A. 11-10 
 3. Canton C. 10-11 
 4. Dakota W. 9-11 
 5. Erie Bay H. 9-12 
 6. Ft.Wayne MA 8-13 
 7. Maine RC 7-15 
 8. Sioux Falls S. 6-16 
West Conference
 1. Austin T. 16-4 
 2. Los Angeles D. 16-7 
 3. Rio Grande VV 13-9 
 4. Bakersfield J. 11-9 
 5. Reno B. 11-10 
 6. Tulsa 66ers 10-12 
 7. Texas L. 9-13 
 8. Idaho S. 8-12 


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.23.8 
 3. Dentmon, Austin T.23.7 
 4. Emmett, Reno B.23.2 
 5. Millsap, Los A.21.7 
 6. Ubiles, Dakota W.20.8 
 7. Howard, Ft.Wayne.19.8 
 8. Mitchell, Sioux F.19.7 
 9. Lazare, Ft.Wayne.19.3 
 10. Smith, Springfiel.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers13.7 
 2. Famous, Iowa E.11.0 
 3. Dawson, Austin T.10.5 
 4. Milligan, Canton C.9.7 
 5. Smith, Rio G.9.6 
 6. Williams, Texas L.9.5 
 7. Foote, Springfield9.0 
 8. Thomas, Reno B.8.9 
 9. Andrews, Los A.8.9 
 10. Daniels, Erie B.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.9.9 
 2. Tinsley, Los A.7.6 
 3. Ewing, Iowa E.7.0 
 4. Cooksey, Texas L.6.6 
 5. Coleman, Sioux F.6.6 
 6. Curry, Springfield6.4 
 7. Bozeman, Reno B.6.2 
 8. Baker, Dakota W.6.2 
 9. Wise, Bakersfield5.9 
 10. Ahearn, Reno B.5.9 
Steals Per Game
 Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Millsap, Los A.2.4 
 2. Tinsley, Los A.2.4 
 3. Coleman, Sioux F.2.4 
 4. Fortson, Los A.2.2 
 5. Emmett, Reno B.2.1 
 6. Harris, Rio G.2.1 
 7. Baker, Dakota W.2.1 
 8. Curry, Springfield2.0 
 9. Owens, Tulsa 66ers2.0 
 10. Dyson, Tulsa 66e.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Hassan WHITESIDE
  Reno B.
  (213-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Whiteside, Reno B.3.3 
 2. Foster, Idaho S.3.1 
 3. Saunders, Rio G.2.3 
 4. Alabi, Bakersfield2.3 
 5. Daniels, Erie B.2.1 
 6. Williams, Texas L.2.0 
 7. Ojougboh, Tulsa1.8 
 8. Blakely, Iowa E.1.8 
 9. Johnson, Springfi.1.7 
 10. Dove, Dakota W.1.7 


Ants hire Laettner, ex-Duke, NBA star - by Eurobasket News
Ever since Steve Gansey was elevated from assistant coach to interim head coach when Joey Meyer was released in late December, the Mad Ants have been looking to find an assistant for Gansey.

They found one in Chris Laettner (6'11''-F-69, college: Duke), a 13-year NBA veteran who led Duke to back-to-back NCAA national championships in 1991 and 1992.

Laettner, 42, will be named the teams assistant pending league approval, which is expected today. He is en route to Sioux Falls, S.D., where the Ants will play games tonight and Saturday.

Laettner chosen by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 1992 draft, had NBA stops in Atlanta, Detroit, Dallas, Washington and Miami before retiring in the 2005 season. He finished with a 13.3 scoring average, 6.9 rebounds per game and 2.7 assists.

He has been playing with the Jacksonville (Fla.) Giants of the ABA.

In leading Duke to its second consecutive NCAA title in 92, Chris Laettner pulled down just about every major individual player of the year award.

He was best known for his turnaround jump shot at the buzzer after a full-court pass that beat Kentucky 104-103 in the 1992 East regional finals.

Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net

Almond is back at Maine Red Claws - by Eurobasket Center
Maine Red Claws signed 27-year old forward Morris Almond (198-F-93kg-85, college: Rice). Its actually Almonds comeback to Maine RC as he played here before. In his first game he scored 15 points. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Springfield A. 91-93. Almond played most recently at SK Cherkasy Monkeys (Ukraine). While playing 5 games for Cherkasy this season he averaged 10.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.2apg and 1.2spg. Almond is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Italy, Spain and Ukraine. Almond graduated Rice University in 2007. It will be his fifth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Pistons sign Mad Ants guard Russell - by Eurobasket News
Walker Russell (6'0''-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.) never gave up no matter how many times the NBA took a look short looks, long looks, sideways glances and chose someone else.

Russell, 29, just kept grinding and playing.

His undeterred positive attitude and perseverance paid off Thursday. As soon as he exited the plane in Sioux Falls, S.D., ready to continue the journey with the Mad Ants this weekend, he found out the Detroit Pistons wanted him.

So he began the quickest trip to Sioux Falls and back in history. Also, it had to be the most rewarding.

I'm still in shock right now, but it's starting to set in, Russell said Thursday night.

Russell will join the Pistons today and try to reach his next goal of sticking in the league. He has been in training camps, including this season, but this will be his first time with an NBA team during the regular season.

I'm real happy for him, Mad Ants coach Steve Gansey said. Walker's lived with me the past two summers and just worked hard wanting to get better, sacrificing good money overseas. Walker's a realistic guy. He knows what he's supposed to do. He knows if he needs to be playing better, and he does it.

Russell was part of the Mad Ants during their first season and he's been back and forth between the D-League and some overseas opportunities in the four years since. Along the way, he set a D-League record for most assists in a season (508 in 2008-09). Last week at the D-League Showcase he dished out a D-League season-high 19 assists against Bakersfield.

He's been setting up his pro teammates for years.

Russell has played 132 games in the D-League, averaging 15.1 points and 8.3 assists per game. He is averaging 16 points and 9.9 assists per game this season, the latter statistic leading the league.

Courtesy of www.news-sentinel.com

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


Valga/CKE add Lauris Blaus - by Eurobasket News
Lauris Blaus (204-C-90, agency: FCM) will continue his career in Estonia. The centre has agreed on terms of contract with Valga/CKE. Lauris Blaus started the season in Ventspils. He averaged 3.5 points and 1.0 board per EuroCup game. In Latvian League his stats read 7.0 points and 2.7 rebounds per appearance. Previously Lauris Blaus played for Keizermezs Riga. The centre was the member of Latvian U16, U18 and U20 National Teams. Last year Blaus joined the Latvian National Team. He participated at 2010 and 2011 Latvian League All-Star Games.
Lauris Blaus debuted fro Valga/CKE tonight. He posted 12 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists against Tarvas.


Standings - KML
KML Standings
 1. Tartu Ulikool 14-1 
 2. Tarvas 11-4 
 3. Kalev/Cramo 10-1 
 4. Rapla 8-7 
 5. TTU/Kalev 7-8 
 6. Tln Kalev 4-11 
 7. Valga/CKE 3-14 
 8. Parnu 2-13 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Illimar PILK
  TT.
  (195-F-88)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Pilk, TT.17.7 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas16.9 
 3. Raley-Ross, Tln K.16.4 
 4. Raadik, Parnu16.4 
 5. Soo, Rapla16.3 
 6. Raap, Parnu16.1 
 7. Veideman, Tartu U.15.4 
 8. Arnold, TT.14.5 
 9. Hallik, Tarvas14.2 
 10. Cunda, Va.13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.1 
 2. Arnold, TT.9.3 
 3. Cricelli, Va.8.4 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla8.1 
 5. Fedortchuk, Tln K.7.5 
 6. Amis, Tartu Ulikool7.5 
 7. Allingu, Tartu U.7.2 
 8. Shaw, Tln Kalev7.2 
 9. Raadik, Parnu6.8 
 10. Keedus, TT.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Cunda, Va.4.5 
 2. Pilk, TT.3.7 
 3. Dorbek, Tarvas3.7 
 4. Laane, Rapla3.6 
 5. Kriisa, Tarvas3.6 
 6. Raap, Parnu3.5 
 7. Skele, Kalev/Cramo3.3 
 8. Keedus, TT.3.0 
 9. Karner, Parnu3.0 
 10. Sokk, Tartu Uliko.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cunda, Va.2.5 
 2. Kaldre, Rapla2.2 
 3. Dorbek, Tarvas2.2 
 4. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.2.1 
 5. Veideman, Tartu U.2.1 
 6. Karner, Parnu1.9 
 7. Laane, Rapla1.9 
 8. Saks, Kalev/Cramo1.8 
 9. Umbrasko, Tarvas1.8 
 10. Raley-Ross, Tln K.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo2.0 
 2. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.5 
 3. Raadik, Parnu1.5 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.1.2 
 5. Varbanov, Kalev/Cr.0.9 
 6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.8 
 7. Makke, TT.0.7 
 8. Eichfuss, Tartu U.0.6 
 9. Hallik, Tarvas0.6 
 10. Ulyanko, Kalev/Cr.0.5 


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Asvel will wait for the new arena - by Philip Mulryne
According to la Tribune de Lyon, the new multifunctional arena of Asvel will not be completed in 2015 as it was planned because of financial difficulties. The new area supposed to
host over 13,000 spectators and would cost an estimated 150 million euros. The article says that this would cause the president Gilles Moretton seek for other arena projects. Asvel
is currently use Astroballe which has 5,800 capacity.

*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE   


Euroleague Round: 1 (Top 16) - by Eurobasket Center
Group E
Olympiakos - CSKA 78-86
CSKA Moscow stays undefeated in Euroleague this season. The Russian powerhouse celebrated 78-86 road win against Olympiakos for 1-0 record in Group E, Top 16. Participants of the same pool are also Anadolu Efes and Galatasaray. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) added 16 points and 8 rebounds. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) and Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) helped their team with 12 and 11 points respectively. On the other side, Olympiakos got 14 points from Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88). Their second scorers were Kyle Hines (198-F-86) (6 rebs) and Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) with 13 points each. Teams were pretty leveled in the first ten minutes and actually CSKA ended the first period with minimum lead, 21-22. They made 34-38 during the Q2, but the Reds created 10-2 run after that for 44-40 lead at the halftime. Nenad Krstic and his teammates shined after the breather and they made 48-55. Thanks to Gecevicius, Printezis and Spanoulis, Olympiakos cut the margin to 58-62 for rest of Q3. Visitors jumped to 60-66 at the beginning of the last period and few minutes later they were already up by 11, 67-78. There was something more than 3 minutes to go and all what Olympiakos managed to do was minus 5 with one minute left, but free throws by Khryapa and a dunk by Siskauskas allowed CSKA to seal the win in style.In the next round CSKA will host Anadolu Efes. Olympiakos will meet Galasaray in Istanbul.

Anadolu Efes - Galatasaray 68-62
Anadolu Efes celebrated 68-62 victory against Galatasaray on Thursday night. It was a Turkish derby in the first round of the Euroleague Top 16 stage. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) paced Efes to victory with double-double of 16 points and 17 rebounds. He reached valuation 31 and was the MVP of this meeting. Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) top-scored for the hosts with 17 points and big guy Stanko Barac (217-C-86) nailed 12. In the loosing squad, Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 14 points. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) and Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) had 13 and 10 points respectively. Anadolu Efes had wonderful beginning last night as they made 29-19 lead after ten minutes of play. The hosts kept double-digit margin until the halftime, but Galatasaray didn't give up and came to 52-48 and the middle of Q3. Barac and Vujacic responded for Efes helping it to reach 60-52 for rest of the period. In the finish of this game Galatsarary came to 66-60 with 1:57 left. Kinsey rescued Efes with a second-chance layup and even when Luksa Andric scored in penetration, a key offensive rebound by Dusko Savanovic made Efes seal the outcome in the final seconds and get a well-deserved, tough home win. Next week, Anadolu Efes goes to Moscow for the game against undefeated CSKA. Galatsaray waits Olympiakos.

Group F
Montepaschi - Gescrap BB 81-67
Montepaschi started the Top 16 phase in style. The Italian champ handed 81-67 loss to Bilbao for 1-0 record in Group F. Their rivals in this pool are also Unicaja and Real Madrid. David Andersen (212-C-80) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points and 7 rebounds, and Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) also netted 18 pts. McCalebb was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 23. Third scorers in victory were Marvis Thornton (194-G-77, college: St.John's) and David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) with 8 pts each. In the loosing squad, Kostas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) shined with 16 points. Marko Banic (205-F-84) (5 rebs) and Roger Grimau (196-G-79, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) had 11 and 10 pts respectively. Bilbao won the first period, but all after that belonged to Montepaschi. The home squad made crucial 17-0 run during the second and third period for 45-34 lead. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Quarters: 14-18, 18-14, 24-17, 25-18. Next week, Montepaschi will meet Real in Madrid. Bilbao will host Unicaja.

Unicaja - Real Madrid 80-81
Real Madrid grabbed 80-81 victory in a heartbreaking thriller against Unicaja on the Thursday night. In very exciting finish, Sergio Rodriguez (191-G-86) made one of his two free throws setting the score to 78-79 with 28 seconds to go. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) responded with a lay-up and there was something less than 10 seconds remaining. Sergio Rodriguez drove and kicked out to Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91), who dribbled and threw up a frantic shot that hit the target with half a second left to snatch a nail-biting win. Real Madrid joined Montepaschi with 1-0 record in Group F, while Unicaja and Bilbao have 0-1. Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke) top-scored for Real Madrid with 13 points, while Ante Tomic (217-C-87) (7 rebs) and game hero Nikola Mirotic (6 rebs) had 12 points each. Sergio Rodriguez helped his team with 11 points and 9 assists. At the other side, Luka Zoric was great with 32 points and 9 rebounds (valuation 32!). Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) (7 as) and Berni Rodriguez (197-F/G-80, agency: Court Side) stopped to 9 pts each. Quarters: 20-15, 19-22, 19-25, 22-19. Real will host Montepaschi in the next round, while Unicaja goes to Bilbao.

Group G
Unics - Fener.Ulker 76-71
The Euroleague newcomer continues to impress. Unics Kazan was better than the reigning Turkish champion Fenerbahce Ulker 76-71 on Wednesday night for 1-0 score in Group G of the Euroleague Top 16. Participants of this pool are also Panathinaikos and Emporio Armani Milano. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) was a key player in Unics with 17 points and 11 rebounds (valuation 32). Petr Samoylenko (185-G-77) also had double-double of 16 pts and 10 assists, while Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) and Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) were two others players with 16 points for the Russians. In Fener, Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) collected 24 points. Omer Onan (194-G-78) had 12 and James Gist (205-F-86) stopped to 8 pts. Unics exploded in the second half to win this game. They were down by 17 at the HT (24-41), but managed to cut the margin to 53-56 before the last quarter and after that made crucial 17-6 run. It was 70-62 with 2 minutes to go. Bojan Bogdanovic kept FB Ulker alive with a clutch triple before Omer Onan narrowed the gap to 4 from the line with 1:18 remaining. But Vladimir Veremeenko scored at the other side and practically sealed the win for Unics. In the next round, Unics will play against Panathinaikos in Athens. Fenerbahce Ulker will host Emporio Armani.

Armani MI - Panathinaikos 57-78
Panathinaikos demonstrated its power on Thursday night in Milan. The reigning Euroleague champion blasted Emporio Armani 57-78 for 1-0 score in Group G of the Top 16. PAO took control on Armani from the beginning and never looked back. The Greens made impressive 10-24 lead in the first ten minutes and jumped to 23-43 at the HT. They reached 28-50 at the middle of Q3 and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. PAO touched plus 26 in the finish of third period and later just closed this game with routine for the final 57-78. Quarters: 10-24, 13-19, 10-15, 24-20. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) scored 12 points, Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) had 11 pts and 6 rebounds, while Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) nailed 10 points for his team. Each of PAO's players scored at least 3 points in this game and got at least 7 minutes on the court. In Armani, Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) was better than the others with 10 points and 6 rebounds. Mason Rocca (204-F-77, college: Princeton) (6 rebs) and Alessandro Gentile (197-G/F-92) scored 8 and 7 points respectively. PAO will host Unics in the next round. Armani will go Istanbul for the game against Fenerbahce Ulker.

Group H
Zalgiris - Maccabi T-A 76-84
Maccabi Electra celebrated valuable 76-84 victory in Kaunas on Thursday night. The Israeli powerhouse has 1-0 score now in Group H of the Euroleague Top 16 sharing the first place with Regal Barca. Zalgirs started with defeat, as well as Bennet Cantu. Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) scored 15 points for the winners and Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) had 14 points, plus 5 boards. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) (5 rebs, 7 as) and Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) (6 rebs) helped their team with 12 and 11 points respectively. Zalgiris got 15 points from Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85), who spent just 13 minutes on the court. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) had 14 points and 5 assists, while Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points and also 5 as. Maccabi dominated in the first half as they made 16-23 in the first period and jumped to 37-48 at the HT. Mostly thanks to Milovan Rakovic and Marko Popovic, Zalgiris managed to recover after the breather and came to 61-64 with 10 minutes to go. In the finish of this game it was 74-77 for Maccabi and Langford made two free throws after that. Jankunas was blocked and later Popovic missed one FT, while Mallet made one at the other side for plus 5. Weems missed for 3 and Maccabi celebrated huge win at the beginning of Top 16 stage. Maccabi waits Regal Barca in the next round. Zalgiris will travel to Cantu.

FCB Regal - Bennet Cantu 65-60
Regal Barca had to work very hard to beat Bennet Cantu 65-60 on Thursday night. The Spanish champ has 1-0 record now in Group H of the Euroleague Top 16 sharing the first place with Maccabi Electra. Cantu and Zalgiris have 0-1. Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) was the leading player in victory with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (valuation 24). Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) had 13 points and 9 rebs, and Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) scored 11 points. In Cantu, Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) (9 rebs) and former Barca player Gianluca Basile (192-G-75) netted 13 points each. Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) and Denis Marconato (212-C-75) stopped to 9 pts each. Cantu had 15-18 lead at the end of the first quarter and 28-30 at the halftime. Teams changed in lead in the finish of Q3, which ended with 49-49 tie. Mostly owing to Chuck Eidson and Kosta Perovic, Regal Barca made crucial 10-2 run in the last quarter, which later allowed them to win this game. Quarters: 15-18, 13-12, 21-19, 16-11. Barca goes to Tel-Aviv next week. Cantu will host Zalgiris.

Euroleague TOP 16,Week 1:ur thoughts.. - by Dimitris Katsionis
Hearts on fire!

Peter Samoylenco lead Unics to a legendary comeback against Fenerbahce in the second half. When I watch Unics early this season against Sparta Prim (and after against Siena)it was obvious that this team wanted desperetally Samoylenco presence's on the court with so many shooting guards around, in a ''balancing'' role. And that is something that the 35-year old Russian point guard knows how to do it. It's ''his thing'',that brought him in the first level.Back in 2007 Eurobasket,remember him as David Blatt's key in the starting lineup next to J.R. Holden,''slowing down'' the American's enthusiastic playing style and taking the ball off his hands. Samoylenco does the same at Kazan with Domercant,Liday,Greer and McCarty.In the second half Pashutin's plan was based on his -native- point guard's pressure to the ball plus clear mind and right decisions (10 assists). Unics played incredible defense as usuall this year and showed some guts although it was in a very difficult situation. Don't forget that the Russian team had the 2nd best defensive permormance in the competition after the 1st phase (Barcelona 1st,Montepaschi 3rd,all from the same group...) When Pashutin's team manage to cut the lead at 5 points in the 3rd period,it was obvious on the player's faces who was going to win.This epic come back (Veremeenco was huge with 17pts-11reb,32 ranking, from the bench) made the fans in Basket Hall (probably the league's most quite arena)cheer up.For sure,in a similar case on South Europe,the arena would have been demolished..

Naked truth..

That was what we saw at Mediolanum forum,refer to the direction in which the two groups are working.Panathinaikos made a-tactically-perfect game showing to Armani jeans that there is a big difference from ''want to be a champ'' until ''being a champ''..Obradovic put the ball inside to Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) in the start and Saras at the baseline (to pass direct to the paint)later in Scariolo's zone defense.Sato dominated the opponent's forwards and David Logan was the pleasant surprise (12pts-6/6 2p.)giving energy from the bench and that is a fact that the ''greens'' coaching staff will keep from the game,except the two point-win.In EA7 the things are not so bad as they seem.They are worst!I can't remember such an image of dissolution the recent years,even with Pierro Buchi or Dan Peterson in charge.They are a dissapointed group which plays awful in the last games,especially after Hairston's injury.It seems that Scariolo loses his player's trust and can't handle specific problems..After the lost from Biella in the LegaA,he attacked straight to Bourousis accusing him for indifference.The Greek center was nervous and -openly influenced-lost all the battles from his opponents yesterday. At the other side,coach Obradovic silently punishes Logan and Maric in the last games by keeping them ostentatiously,at the bench. In Obradovic's mind,the player during his ''punishment'' must be ready anytime to ''show his regret on the court'' and take the chance.That's what-exactly- Logan did..

The Blue Devils

I just wanted to know what David Blatt thinks by seing Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke) perform like this by his first games in the competition. ''Did i chose the wrong Blue Devil?'' Ok,maybe John Scheyer's performance until now isn't what Maccabi funs expected,but the guy is a special situation. He is trully a great prospect but he needs patience and time. Blatt has a schedule,working on him.In the last games,Scheyer improve his minutes and tries to get in Maccabi's rotation but that's a part of the plan. Smooth integration.. Remember Nick Kalathes development and how much time the youngster spend in the bench listening Obradovic..? Scheyer is a similar case. As coach Blatt revealed,he sees a new ''Nikos Zisis'' on him.Hmmmm maybe,under costruction..

Singler is on the other side. He joined a good club first at the Spanish league's hard competition. He proved his talent and now acclimated directly to a top level situation with Real Madrid. Although he was a combo forward back to Duke,Laso uses him at both ''wing positions'' and the 2.03 American youngster has been adjusted perfectly. Real Madrid took the ''win of the week'' at Martin Carpena,surpassing Luka Zoric's (211-C/F-84) remarkable performance (32pts-13/20 2p.). The other Blue Devil,Martynas Pocious,had 2/9FG (1/6 three pointers at 12:30'!)but Mirotic clutch play just 0.6' before the buzzer gave ''Madridistas'' the big win. Sergio Rodriguez (11pts-9ass)evidenced for one more night how much better is the team with him-instant of Lull- at the point guard position..

Room for improve

It is obvious that Maccabi has to improve a lot of things to be a real title contender. In front of more than 14000 Zalgiris funs the Israeli powerhouse did an excellent job at the first 19-20 minutes but couldn't control game's tempo in the second half. Blatt started Mallet next to Langford and then replaced both with Oyagon (to defend Popovic,good job but quick fouls)and Scheyer. The ''yellow's''defence on Weems was exemplary,the best so far on the American guard-forward. Maccabi quickly took an advantage but in the secong half,especially when the starting guards were tired,Blatt's players couldn't face Trifunovic's full court press. As a result,Maccabi's offense and mind was influenced and it's players attacking on one-against all-situations at the end of the clock. Big Sofo couldn't defend Rakovic,so Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) stayed more on the court (11pts-6reb-3blk). Inside game was the key of the win for Maccabi who hosts Barcelona next week.One thing's for sure.This year's team hasn't got the cohesion of Blatt's last year's masterpiece,with the hard-nosed guard combination of Perkins and Pargo..

Defeat in perspective

Olympiakos may lost from the undefeated Cska Moscow but the feeling is a little bit weird.The Reds after this loss feel more confident and with much more possibilities to qualify the playoffs.They played an awesome first half with the three youngsters (Mantzaris,Papanikolaou,Sloukas)give some energy and Pero Antic feeling more comfortable next to Joy-muscle mountain-Dorsey.But against Cska you have to be 40' focus and concentrate just to claim the victory.The Reds aren't on this level now but they work in the right direction and they have been improved a lot the last couple of months.The Russians didn;t play their best game and that confirms their quality.They won by putting the ball to Krstic (8 fouls rcv,10/12 ft)and they took some clutch plays from Khryapa (his playmaking ability is the center point of the team's offense)and Siskauskas.Cska's scouting receive and A+ Grade for the defense at Spanoulis,although the Greek superstar was not in a good shape due to a recent injury.Kyle Hines's (198-F-86) mobility-key of many victories this year for Ivkovic-at the ''5'' position wasn't enough against a team with so many depth and quality at the frontcourt.It was the first loss for the Reds at Peace & Frienship stadium in front of 7000 fans.It's a season attendance record..



Vladimir Veremeenko claims Euroleague weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Belarusian-Russian Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Unics and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 1 (Top 16).
The 27-year old forward had a double-double of 17 points and eleven rebounds, while his team beat Fenerbahce Ulker (0-1) 76-71. Both teams are placed to Group G. Veremeenko has many years of experience at Unics, through which he has constantly improved.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 27-year old Croatian Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) of Unicaja. Zoric impressed basketball fans with 32 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as Unicaja was edged by Real Madrid (1-0) 81-80. The Top 16 is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next round. Zoric is a newcomer at Unicaja and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Serbian Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) of second-ranked Anadolu Efes. Savanovic scored 16 points and grabbed seventeen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Anadolu Efes, leading his team to a 68-62 win against Galatasaray. Anadolu Efes has a very good start of the Top 16. But there was just one game played, so it's too early to judge them at this stage. Savanovic also has a very good start of the Top 16 with very strong stats. Savanovic has a very solid season. In 11 games in Euroleague he scored 11.1ppg. He also has 5.7rpg and and 3PT: 45.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Petr Samoylenko (185-G-77) of Unics - 16 points and 10 assists
5. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85) of Montepaschi - 18 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80) of FCB Regal - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Henry Domercant (192-G-80) of Unics - 16 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) of Fener.Ulker - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) of CSKA - 18 points and 4 rebounds
10. Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-G-84) of Galatasaray - 10 points, 9 rebounds and 4 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)

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mirza TELETOVIC
  Caja L.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 22
 1. Teletovic, Caja L.22.0 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.18.9 
 3. McCalebb, Montepa.17.9 
 4. Mallet, Spirou16.6 
 5. Domercant, Unics16.5 
 6. Gallinari, Armani16.4 
 7. Weems, Zalgiris16.1 
 8. Carroll, Real Madr.16.0 
 9. Krstic, CSKA15.8 
 10. Pekovic, Partizan15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA8.2 
 2. Macvan, Partizan8.2 
 3. Motiejunas, Asseco7.9 
 4. Slaughter, Brose B.6.9 
 5. Akingbala, Nancy6.9 
 6. Krstic, CSKA6.8 
 7. Freeland, Unicaja6.7 
 8. Kasun, KK.6.6 
 9. Bourousis, Armani6.5 
 10. Zoric, Unicaja6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Sergio RODRIGUEZ
  Real M.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Rodriguez, Real M.5.8 
 2. Teodosic, CSKA5.6 
 3. Batum, Nancy5.2 
 4. Tunceri, Anadolu5.0 
 5. Diamantidis, Panat.4.9 
 6. Cook, Armani MI4.7 
 7. Prigioni, Caja L.4.6 
 8. Huertas, FCB Regal4.6 
 9. Spanoulis, Olympia.4.6 
 10. Blassingame, Asse.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Tarence KINSEY
  Anadolu .
  (200-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Kinsey, Anadolu2.5 
 2. Prigioni, Caja L.2.2 
 3. Sefolosha, Fener.U.2.1 
 4. Linehan, Nancy2.0 
 5. Gordon, Galatasaray1.8 
 6. Kirilenko, CSKA1.8 
 7. Slaughter, Brose B.1.8 
 8. Batum, Nancy1.7 
 9. Eidson, FCB Regal1.6 
 10. Gist, Fener.Ulker1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA3.2 
 2. Ibaka, Real Madrid2.0 
 3. Riddick, Spirou1.6 
 4. Ilyasova, Anadolu1.5 
 5. Begic, Real Madrid1.5 
 6. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.3 
 7. Perovic, FCB Regal1.3 
 8. Slaughter, Brose B.1.3 
 9. James, Maccabi T-A1.1 
 10. Fischer, Gescrap1.1 


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


KORISLIIGA: Buzzer beater Mikko Jalonen - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 24: Only one contest tonight. Korihait (Uusikaupunki) vs Kouvot (Kouvola) and the hero of the game Mikko Jalonen (186-PG-82) (Korihait). Jalonen made a 3-pointer from half court at the buzzer and Korihait won 83-80 (44-39). Quarters: 19-17, 25-22, 20-21, 19-20. It was a very close game and finally Korihait (9-15) more lucky. Nigel Moore (195-F/G-81, college: Alabama A&M) played all 40 minutes and led the hosts with 20 points. Jalonen added 15 pts and Petri Heinonen (207-F/C-88) 14 pts. Korihait had five players in double digits. Anthony Brown (203-F-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.) led Kouvot (9-14) with 17 points.
Korihait - Kouvot 83-80 (44-39). (Nigel Moore 20/5a, Mikko Jalonen 15, Petri Heinonen 14 - Anthony Brown 17, Josh Gonner 16, Antoine Jordan 15/6a. A: 580).
Saturday-Sunday (Jan 21-22) Finnish Cup Final 4 in Tampere: Kataja (Joensuu) vs Karhu (Kauhajoki) and Pyrinto (Tampere) vs Bisons (Loimaa).



Korisliiga Round 26: Joensuun Kataja beats KTP-Basket by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Eighth-ranked KTP-Basket (9-16) was very close to win a game against first ranked Joensuun Kataja (20-4) on Wednesday. Joensuun Kataja managed to secure only two-point victory 72-70. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But KTP-Basket won third quarter 21-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Joensuun Kataja won last quarter 13-13. American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds. The other American import guard B.A. Walker (188-84, college: VCU, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Bosnian guard Bojan Sarcevic (190-88, agency: The House of Baller!Stars) replied with 22 points and 7 rebounds for KTP-Basket. Joensuun Kataja have a solid four-game winning streak. Joensuun Kataja maintains first position with 20-4 record. KTP-Basket at the other side dropped to the tenth place with 16 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
An interesting game for Loimaan Korikonkarit (16-5) which hosted in Loimaa one of their biggest challengers Kauhajoen Karhu (15-9). Second ranked Loimaan Korikonkarit had an easy win 87-70. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Kauhajoen Karhu. American players dominated the game. Guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) scored 35 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Jeb Ivey chipped in 16 points and 9 assists during the contest. point guard Clevin Hannah (180-87, college: Wichita St., agency: Court Side) responded with 33 points (!!!). Loimaan Korikonkarit have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 16-5 record having seven points less than leader Kataja. Kauhajoen Karhu at the other side keeps the third place with nine games lost. Loimaan Korikonkarit will play against bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Torpan Pojat (#4) in Helsinki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Helsinki was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Tampereen Pyrinto (13-10) played at the court of fifth ranked Torpan Pojat (13-10). Torpan Pojat managed to secure a 8-point victory 86-78 on Friday. Chase Griffin notched 18 points and 5 assists to lead the effort. Even 26 points and 6 rebounds by Damon Williams did not help to save the game for Tampereen Pyrinto. Torpan Pojat moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Pyrinto. Tampereen Pyrinto lost third consecutive game. Torpan Pojat will meet higher ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (#3) in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round.
The game in Salon was also worth to mention about. Sixth ranked LrNMKY (10-13) played at the court of 8th ranked Salon Vilpas (9-15). LrNMKY managed to secure a 5-point victory 68-63. American players dominated also this game. The best player for the winners was Tyler Tiedeman who scored 24 points. LrNMKY maintains sixth position with 10-13 record. Salon Vilpas at the other side keeps the eighth place with 15 games lost. LrNMKY's next round opponent will be UU-Korihait (#8) in Uusikaupunki. Salon Vilpas will play on the road against Kouvot in Kouvola and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Uusikaupunki. Tenth ranked UU-Korihait (9-15) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Kouvot (9-14) 83-80 on Friday evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Nigel Moore orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. UU-Korihait moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Salon Vilpas. Kouvot lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. UU-Korihait will face higher ranked LrNMKY (#6) in Lappeenranta in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.

In the last game of round 26 bottom-ranked Namika Lahti was smashed by KTP on the road 105-68.
The most impressive performance of 26th round was 41 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds by Tim Blue of KTP.


Korihait - Kouvot 83-80

Important game to mention about took place in Uusikaupunki. Tenth ranked UU-Korihait (9-15) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Kouvot (9-14) 83-80 on Friday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Kouvot won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Forward Cory Johnson (200-88, college: Valparaiso, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed with 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Guard Antoine Jordan (196-83, college: Siena) replied with 15 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Josh Gonner (188-82, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Kouvot. Five UU-Korihait and four Kouvot players scored in double figures. UU-Korihait moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Salon Vilpas. Kouvot lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. UU-Korihait will face higher ranked LrNMKY (#6) in Lappeenranta in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
Korihait: N.Moore 20+7reb+5ast, M.Jalonen 15+4reb+1ast, P.Heinonen 14+4reb, C.Johnson 13+8reb+2ast, S.Vanzant 10+3ast, N.Malinen 7+2reb+2ast
Kouvot: A.Brown 17+6reb+2ast, J.Gonner 16+5reb+4ast, A.Jordan 15+6reb+6ast, I.Seppala 15, A.Nikkarinen 9+1reb+3ast, A.Perttu 6+5reb+1ast
gschID: 141755


KTP - Namika Lahti 105-68

No shocking result in a game when eighth ranked KTP-Basket (9-16) crushed bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (6-18) in Kotka 105-68 on Friday. The game without a history. KTP-Basket led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Namika Lahti's 26. They outrebounded Namika Lahti 45-26 including a 37-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. KTP-Basket looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 41 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds (on 15-of-19 shooting from the field). The other American import swingman Tony Crocker (201-87, college: Oklahoma) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. American guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) replied with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Sami Pekkola (200-83) added 20 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for Namika Lahti. Despite that victory KTP-Basket went down to tenth position due to points difference. Loser Namika Lahti stay at the bottom place with 18 games lost. KTP-Basket will have a break next round. Namika Lahti will play at home against the league's second-placed Loimaan Korikonkarit (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
KTP: T.Blue 41+9reb+1ast, T.Crocker 21+10reb+3ast, J.Lehtoranta 16+7reb, M.Pounds 11+3ast, B.Sarcevic 9+8reb+11ast, J.Williams 7+7reb+2ast
Namika Lahti: S.Pekkola 20+5reb, M.Moore 16+5reb+4ast, R.Brooks 8+6reb+2ast, B.Bailey 6+3reb, R.Suonio 6+3reb+5ast, S.Cakici 5
gschID: 141750


ToPo - Pyrinto 86-78

The game in Helsinki was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Tampereen Pyrinto (13-10) played at the court of fifth ranked Torpan Pojat (13-10). Torpan Pojat managed to secure a 8-point victory 86-78 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 29-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Torpan Pojat outrebounded Tampereen Pyrinto 43-30 including 30 on the defensive glass. American guard Chase Griffin (188-83, college: Pepperdine) notched 18 points and 5 assists to lead the effort and forward Timo Heinonen (198-81) supported him with 11 points and 13 rebounds. Five Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. Even 26 points and 6 rebounds by American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) did not help to save the game for Tampereen Pyrinto. His fellow American import guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue) added 28 points (was perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line !!!) for the guests. Torpan Pojat moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Pyrinto. Tampereen Pyrinto lost third consecutive game. Torpan Pojat will meet higher ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (#3) in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Tampereen Pyrinto will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
ToPo: C.Griffin 18+3reb+5ast, H.Mottola 16+8reb, C.Lindbom 13+5reb+1ast, K.Muurinen 13+10reb+2ast, S.Niskanen 11+1reb, T.Heinonen 11+13reb+1ast
Pyrinto: K.Lowe 28+3reb+1ast, D.Williams 26+6reb+3ast, A.Williams 13+7reb+2ast, O.Ahvenniemi 5+4reb, A.Nikkila 4+6reb+1ast, O.Heinonen 2+2reb
gschID: 141751


Salon Vilpas - LrNMKY 63-68

The game in Salon was also worth to mention about. Sixth ranked LrNMKY (10-13) played at the court of 8th ranked Salon Vilpas (9-15). LrNMKY managed to secure a 5-point victory 68-63. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Salon Vilpas won third quarter 18-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when LrNMKY won last quarter 25-21. American players dominated also this game. The best player for the winners was forward Tyler Tiedeman (201-85, college: Boise St., agency: Interperformances) who scored 24 points. Guard DeAndre Haynes (187-84, college: Kent St., agency: Court Side) chipped in 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Four LrNMKY players scored in double figures. Forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) produced 20 points and 9 rebounds and forward John Fields (205-88, college: Tennessee) added 12 points and 15 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) respectively for the hosts. LrNMKY maintains sixth position with 10-13 record. Salon Vilpas at the other side keeps the eighth place with 15 games lost. LrNMKY's next round opponent will be UU-Korihait (#8) in Uusikaupunki. Salon Vilpas will play on the road against Kouvot in Kouvola and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
LrNMKY: T.Tiedeman 24+3reb+2ast, D.Haynes 18+5reb+4ast, L.Hamm 14+7reb+1ast, M.Ojala 10+3reb, P.Riihela 2+7reb+2ast, A.Kankaanpaa 0
Salon Vilpas: A.Durham 20+9reb, J.Fields 12+15reb, E.Holloway 11+2reb+3ast, J.Kataja 8+2reb+1ast, S.Kaaresvirta 7+4reb+3ast, A.Vaenerberg 5+4reb+4ast
gschID: 141752


Nilan Bisons - Kauhajoki 87-70

An interesting game for Loimaan Korikonkarit (16-5) which hosted in Loimaa one of their biggest challengers Kauhajoen Karhu (15-9). Second ranked Loimaan Korikonkarit had an easy win 87-70. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Kauhajoen Karhu. It looked good early as Kauhajoen Karhu took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Loimaan Korikonkarit had a 28-13 second period charge getting the lead and Kauhajoen Karhu was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 70-87. Loimaan Korikonkarit shot the lights out from three nailing 14 long-distance shots on high 53.8 percentage. American players dominated the game. Guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) scored 35 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Jeb Ivey (190-80, college: Portland St.) chipped in 16 points and 9 assists during the contest. point guard Clevin Hannah (180-87, college: Wichita St., agency: Court Side) responded with 33 points (!!!) and forward Kelly Beidler (199-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's, agency: R.H.Consultancy) scored 7 points and 13 rebounds. Loimaan Korikonkarit have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 16-5 record having seven points less than leader Kataja. Kauhajoen Karhu at the other side keeps the third place with nine games lost. Loimaan Korikonkarit will play against bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Torpan Pojat (#4) in Helsinki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Nilan Bisons: M.Zeno 35+5reb+2ast, J.Ivey 16+3reb+9ast, M.Koivisto 9+2reb+2ast, M.Nuutinen 9+7reb+1ast, S.Latvala 8+1reb, R.McDade 7+10reb+1ast
Kauhajoki: C.Hannah 33+3reb+1ast, H.Hirvikoski 11+5reb, K.Beidler 7+13reb+1ast, V.Makalainen 7+5reb, T.Hendley 6+3reb+1ast, J.Eskola 3+2reb
gschID: 141753


Kataja - KTP 72-70

Eighth-ranked KTP-Basket (9-16) was very close to win a game against first ranked Joensuun Kataja (20-4) on Wednesday. Joensuun Kataja managed to secure only two-point victory 72-70. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But KTP-Basket won third quarter 21-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Joensuun Kataja won last quarter 13-13. American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds. The other American import guard B.A. Walker (188-84, college: VCU, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Bosnian guard Bojan Sarcevic (190-88, agency: The House of Baller!Stars) replied with 22 points and 7 rebounds and American forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) added 23 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for KTP-Basket. Joensuun Kataja have a solid four-game winning streak. Joensuun Kataja maintains first position with 20-4 record. KTP-Basket at the other side dropped to the tenth place with 16 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Kataja: J.Newson 29+15reb, B.Walker 15+2reb+3ast, S.Lehtoranta 8+11reb+1ast, P.Virtanen 8+1reb+3ast, A.Kanervo 6+3reb+2ast, J.Price 5+3reb
KTP: T.Blue 23+6reb+2ast, B.Sarcevic 22+7reb+2ast, J.Matinen 9+4reb+1ast, J.Williams 7+9reb+3ast, J.Lehtoranta 5+2reb, T.Crocker 4+4reb+3ast
gschID: 141754




Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. Kataja 20-4 
 2. Nilan Bisons 16-5 
 3. Kauhajoki 15-9 
 4. ToPo 13-10 
 5. Pyrinto 13-10 
 6. LrNMKY 10-13 
 7. Kouvot 9-14 
 8. Korihait 9-15 
 9. Salon Vilpas 9-15 
 10. KTP 9-16 
 11. Namika Lahti 6-18 


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.6
 1. Blue, KTP22.6 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons22.4 
 3. Holloway, Salon V.19.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki19.3 
 5. Newson, Kataja19.0 
 6. Crocker, KTP18.7 
 7. Brooks, Namika L.18.4 
 8. Tiedeman, LrNM.17.8 
 9. Griffin, ToPo17.6 
 10. Hamm, LrNM.17.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 14.3
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.14.3 
 2. Blue, KTP10.6 
 3. Newson, Kataja9.5 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki9.3 
 5. Hairston, Salon V.8.7 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto8.3 
 7. McDade, Nilan B.8.2 
 8. Zeno, Nilan Bisons8.1 
 9. Brown, Kouvot7.7 
 10. Nikkila, Pyrinto7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jeb IVEY
  Nilan Bisons
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Ivey, Nilan Bisons5.4 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto4.4 
 3. Hannah, Kauhajoki4.2 
 4. Virtanen, Kataja4.2 
 5. Sarcevic, KTP4.1 
 6. Haynes, LrNM.4.0 
 7. Moore, Namika L.3.9 
 8. Walker, Kataja3.8 
 9. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.2 
 10. Holloway, Salon V.3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Sten, Kataja2.5 
 2. Moore, Korihait2.4 
 3. Williams, Pyrinto2.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.2 
 5. Moore, Namika L.1.9 
 6. Newson, Kataja1.9 
 7. Williams, Pyrinto1.7 
 8. Haynes, LrNM.1.7 
 9. Jordan, Kouvot1.6 
 10. Sarcevic, KTP1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.2.3 
 2. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.0 
 3. Hairston, Salon V.1.3 
 4. Blue, KTP1.2 
 5. Lehtoranta, Kataja1.0 
 6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons0.9 
 7. Jones, Nilan Bisons0.8 
 8. McDade, Nilan B.0.8 
 9. Price, Kataja0.7 
 10. Bell, KTP0.7 


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


Rashad Wright is close to Roanne - by Eurobasket News
Roanne are looking for roster strengthening. They target Rashad Wright (189-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia). The guard has just left PAOK Thessaloniki. Rashad Wright started the season with PAOK. He tallied 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game in EuroCup. In A1 League his stats read 7.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists. Last season Rashad Wright spent in Germany. He played for ALBA Berlin. The guard averaged 9.8 points, 3.1 assists and 2.7 rebounds in Bundesliga. In EuroCup Wright delivered 8.8 points, 2.7 assists and 2.3 rebounds per appearance. Rashad Wright also had stints in Greece, Serbia, Belgium and Turkey. Eurobasket.com named Rashad Wright All-Belgian League Playoffs Co-MVP.



JSF Nanterre adds Diarra to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
JSF Nanterre agreed terms with 32-year old naturalized Mali forward Mamoutou Diarra (200-F-80). Diarra played most recently at Cholet Basket (ProA). While playing 28 games in French League for Cholet last season he recorded 3.4ppg and 1.4rpg. He helped them to win regular season and then make it to the league finals. He also played 10 games in Euroleague and his stats were 2.2ppg and 1.1rpg. He helped them to win regular season and make it to the final. Diarra played also pro basketball in Greece and Italy. He used to play also for French National team between 2004-2008.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


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


Standings - N1
NM1 Standings
 1. Charleville 13-3 
 2. St Quentin 12-4 
 3. Souffel 11-5 
 4. Cognac 11-5 
 5. Blois 10-6 
 6. Sorgues 10-6 
 7. Orchy 10-6 
 8. Roche 9-7 
 9. Brest 9-7 
 10. Lievin 9-8 
 11. Challans 9-8 
 12. Chartres 8-8 
 13. Angers BC 49 7-9 
 14. Rueil 6-10 
 15. Clermont 5-11 
 16. Le Puy 4-12 
 17. CFBB 1-15 
 18. Montbrison 1-15 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.22.8 
 2. Chatfield, Paris-.21.4 
 3. Rochestie, Le Mans20.4 
 4. Parker, AS.20.3 
 5. Cox, Le Havre18.0 
 6. Hamilton, Paris-.17.6 
 7. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.17.3 
 8. Batum, Nancy17.1 
 9. Morlende, Hyeres-T.16.9 
 10. Wise, Le Havre16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.1 
 2. Akingbala, Nancy7.9 
 3. Hamilton, Paris-.7.9 
 4. Aminu, Chalon7.5 
 5. Allen, Strasbourg7.2 
 6. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.6.9 
 7. Armstrong, AS.6.9 
 8. Falker, Cholet6.9 
 9. Greer, Strasbourg6.6 
 10. Harper, Strasbourg6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon9.1 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.8 
 3. Parker, AS.6.3 
 4. Wise, Le Havre6.2 
 5. Linehan, Nancy5.7 
 6. Pellin, Orleans5.3 
 7. Barrett, Roanne5.1 
 8. Dixon, Dijon5.0 
 9. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.4.8 
 10. Schilb, Chalon4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Nic WISE
  Le Havre
  (178-G-87)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Wise, Le Havre2.2 
 2. Linehan, Nancy2.1 
 3. Batum, Nancy2.1 
 4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.2.1 
 5. Albicy, Gravelines2.1 
 6. Riley, Nanterre2.1 
 7. Melody, Dijon2.0 
 8. Acker, Le Mans2.0 
 9. Krupalija, Hyeres.1.8 
 10. Bokolo, Gravelines1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Rudy GOBERT
  Cholet
  (212-C-92)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Gobert, Cholet1.4 
 2. Batum, Nancy1.1 
 3. Jackson, Roanne1.1 
 4. Issa, Gravelines1.1 
 5. Akingbala, Nancy1.1 
 6. Falker, Cholet1.1 
 7. Nichols, Cholet1.0 
 8. Williams, Paris-.1.0 
 9. Hamilton, Paris-.0.9 
 10. Sy, Orleans0.9 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 David DENAVE
  St Vallier
  (195-SG-85)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Denave, St Vallier18.5 
 2. Sonko, Bourg18.5 
 3. McCray, Boulogne18.3 
 4. Davis, Le Portel18.2 
 5. Paelay, Quimper17.2 
 6. Prowell, St Vallier17.1 
 7. Gay, Fos Ouest16.4 
 8. Barro, Bourg16.3 
 9. Siggers, Rouen16.3 
 10. Wood, Evreux15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Massie, Limoges11.6 
 2. Wood, Evreux11.4 
 3. Osby, Maurienne9.6 
 4. Rossiter, Denain9.4 
 5. Badiane, Antibes9.3 
 6. Monroe, Boulazac9.3 
 7. Allen, Antibes8.7 
 8. Barro, Bourg8.6 
 9. Prowell, St Vallier8.4 
 10. Daniels, Chalons-.8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Taylor, Le Portel7.3 
 2. Copeland, Bourg5.8 
 3. Rowland, Evreux5.5 
 4. Darnauzan, Mauri.5.5 
 5. Darrigand, Bordeaux5.3 
 6. Patiejunas, Rouen5.2 
 7. Denave, St Vallier5.1 
 8. Mullins, Chalons-.5.1 
 9. Mouillard, Quimper5.0 
 10. Choquet, Fos Oue.4.8 
Steals Per Game
 Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. McCray, Boulogne2.6 
 2. Charles, Nantes2.6 
 3. Paelay, Quimper2.5 
 4. Shiloh, St Vallier2.3 
 5. Denave, St Vallier2.0 
 6. Flowers, Vichy2.0 
 7. James, Denain2.0 
 8. Eito, Vichy1.9 
 9. Prowell, St Vallier1.9 
 10. Mullins, Chalons-.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest1.8 
 2. Badiane, Antibes1.6 
 3. Osby, Maurienne1.4 
 4. Prowell, St Vallier1.1 
 5. Daniels, Chalons-.0.9 
 6. Dunn, Rouen0.9 
 7. Adjiwanou, Boula.0.9 
 8. Massie, Limoges0.9 
 9. Ford, Bordeaux0.8 
 10. Barro, Bourg0.8 


Stats Leaders - N1
Points Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Kaunisto, Blois17.9 
 2. Pridotkas, Brest17.8 
 3. Bluntt, Orchy17.6 
 4. Belser, Charleville17.3 
 5. Bigote, Cognac16.9 
 6. Petrovic, Orchy16.8 
 7. Almanson, Challans16.1 
 8. Thomas, Roche15.9 
 9. Merie, Chartres15.7 
 10. Staelens, Blois15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Kaunisto, Blois11.5 
 2. Caskill, Cognac10.8 
 3. Jaiteh, CFBB9.7 
 4. Sanborn, Lievin9.1 
 5. Pridotkas, Brest8.6 
 6. Mendy, Lievin8.4 
 7. Pearson, Angers B.8.1 
 8. Avramovic, Chart.7.6 
 9. Diame, Rueil7.5 
 10. McClark, Clermont7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Rathieuville, Brest6.7 
 2. Calvez, Charleville5.6 
 3. Brochard, Blois5.2 
 4. Barbry, Orchy4.9 
 5. Ball, St Quentin4.8 
 6. Daube, Le Puy4.7 
 7. Berquier, Chartres4.5 
 8. Dessart, Lievin4.2 
 9. Godin, Cognac4.2 
 10. Thomas, Roche3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Damien PISTRE
  Charleville
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Pistre, Charleville2.1 
 2. Calvez, Charleville1.9 
 3. Toto N''Kote, Roche1.9 
 4. Gourari, Rueil1.8 
 5. Bigote, Cognac1.8 
 6. Kaunisto, Blois1.8 
 7. Bassine, Sorgues1.7 
 8. Gotagni, Le Puy1.7 
 9. Cretaux, Lievin1.7 
 10. Koundjia-S., Le P.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Abdoulaye N''DIAYE
  Souffel
  (210-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. N''Diaye, Souffel1.9 
 2. Caskill, Cognac1.8 
 3. Alingue, Souffel1.8 
 4. Sanborn, Lievin1.4 
 5. Ipouck, Chartres1.2 
 6. Morin, CFBB1.2 
 7. Diame, Rueil1.1 
 8. Tornato, Blois1.0 
 9. Borval, Le Puy0.9 
 10. Jaiteh, CFBB0.9 


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


Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Martin SAMARCO
  Karlsruhe
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Samarco, Karlsruhe21.7 
 2. Reese, Duesseldorf21.0 
 3. McKiver, Braves20.2 
 4. Stommes, Webmoebel19.5 
 5. Alexander, ETB W.18.8 
 6. Hassan, Leitersh.17.9 
 7. Roessler, Karlsruhe17.4 
 8. Reid, MBC17.4 
 9. Webb, Crailsheim16.8 
 10. Howard, Karlsruhe16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Justin HOWARD
  Karlsruhe
  (208-C-81)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Howard, Karlsruhe10.4 
 2. Uskoski, Kirchheim8.6 
 3. Black, Jena8.2 
 4. Webb, Crailsheim8.0 
 5. Lawson, Chemnitz7.4 
 6. Harris, Cuxhaven7.3 
 7. Richardson, Leiter.7.1 
 8. Mason, Webmoebel7.1 
 9. De Michael, NBC6.9 
 10. Watts, Heidelberg6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Ahmad SMITH
  Kirchheim
  (194-G-84)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Smith, Kirchheim6.1 
 2. Johnson, Chemnitz5.6 
 3. Jeka, Braves5.2 
 4. Holcomb Faye, MBC5.0 
 5. Hill, Crailsheim4.7 
 6. Diggs, Webmoebel4.5 
 7. Chavis, NBC4.5 
 8. Burgess, Heidelberg4.4 
 9. Rice, Cuxhaven4.2 
 10. Reese, Duesseldo.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric BROOKS
  Kirchheim
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Brooks, Kirchheim2.2 
 2. Bowlin, Leitershof.1.9 
 3. Johnson, Chemnitz1.8 
 4. Rice, Cuxhaven1.7 
 5. Harris, NBC1.6 
 6. Capel, Cuxhaven1.6 
 7. Ishizaki, Chemnitz1.6 
 8. Matthews, Ehingen1.5 
 9. Diggs, Webmoebel1.5 
 10. Alexander, ETB W.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Dmitriy CHEREMNYKH
  Braves
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Cheremnykh, Braves1.7 
 2. De Michael, NBC1.4 
 3. Williamson, Ehingen1.2 
 4. Zipser, Heidelberg1.2 
 5. Howard, Karlsruhe0.9 
 6. Harris, Cuxhaven0.9 
 7. Oakes, MBC0.9 
 8. Buechert, Ehingen0.8 
 9. Okoye, NBC0.8 
 10. Flomo, Duesseldorf0.8 


Standings - 1. Bundesliga
1.Bundesliga Standings
 1. Brose Baskets 16-2 
 2. Ratiopharm 15-2 
 3. Art.Dragons 13-5 
 4. ALBA 11-6 
 5. NY Phantoms 11-7 
 6. B.Muenchen 10-8 
 7. s.Oliver Baskets 10-8 
 8. EWE Baskets 10-8 
 9. Bremerhaven 9-9 
 10. Telekom Baskets 9-9 
 11. Bayreuth 8-10 
 12. Fraport SKY 8-11 
 13. Phoenix Hagen 7-11 
 14. LTi 46ers 7-12 
 15. Walter Tigers 6-12 
 16. EnBW L'burg 5-13 
 17. TBB Trier 5-13 
 18. Goettingen 2-16 


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


Standings - Pro B
ProB Standings
Group North
 1. Hannover 13-3 
 2. SU Medien 12-5 
 3. Vechta 11-5 
 4. Herten 11-6 
 5. Stahnsdorf 11-7 
 6. Schwelm 10-7 
 7. Dorsten 9-7 
 8. Wolfenbuettel 8-9 
 9. Wulfen 7-10 
 10. Rist Wedel 6-11 
 11. Bayer Giants 6-11 
 12. ALBA Berlin II 4-13 
 13. Bernau 1-16 
Group South
 1. Gotha 13-3 
 2. Noerdlingen 12-4 
 3. Leipzig 11-5 
 4. Dragons 10-5 
 5. BSW Sixers 10-6 
 6. Hanau 9-7 
 7. Langen 9-7 
 8. Licher Baeren 7-9 
 9. TSV Troester 7-9 
 10. Fraport SKY II 4-12 
 11. BG Illertal 2-14 
 12. Giessen 2-14 


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Brown, EWE Baskets17.8 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.17.1 
 3. Carter, Phoenix16.3 
 4. Ensminger, Teleko.15.7 
 5. Jonusas, Phoenix15.4 
 6. Foster, B.Muenchen14.9 
 7. Jeffers, LTi 46ers14.4 
 8. Tucker, Brose B.14.2 
 9. Burrell, EWE B.14.1 
 10. Peavy, Art.Dragons13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.5 
 2. Evans, Goettingen8.5 
 3. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.3 
 4. Ensminger, Teleko.8.1 
 5. Leuer, Fraport SKY7.8 
 6. Sykes, Goettingen7.6 
 7. Davidson, Fraport7.5 
 8. Watts, Ratiopharm6.9 
 9. Homan, B.Muenchen6.8 
 10. Zirbes, TBB Trier6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Jordan, Telekom7.6 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.5.8 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.3 
 4. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 5. Brown, EWE Baskets5.1 
 6. Wood, ALBA4.8 
 7. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.8 
 8. Campbell, Walter T.4.3 
 9. Gibson, Bayreuth4.2 
 10. Everett, Bremerha.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Linhart, TBB Trier1.8 
 2. Frazier, s.Oliv.1.6 
 3. Dorris, EnBW L.1.6 
 4. Redding, Walter T.1.4 
 5. Holston, Art.Drag.1.4 
 6. Crowe, Phoenix1.4 
 7. Kramer, s.Oliv.1.3 
 8. Tucker, Brose B.1.3 
 9. Bernard, LTi 46ers1.3 
 10. Wood, ALBA1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekenechukwu IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ibekwe, Bayreuth2.0 
 2. Gaffney, Teleko.1.8 
 3. Slaughter, Brose B.1.6 
 4. Looby, EnBW L.1.6 
 5. Pleiss, Brose B.1.4 
 6. Davidson, Fraport1.4 
 7. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.2 
 8. King, Art.Dragons1.2 
 9. Redding, Walter T.1.0 
 10. Boone, s.Oliver.0.9 


Nowitzki has knee problems - by Eurobasket News
After he shot 6-of-18 for 17 points in Wednesday's 91-89 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) said that his right knee is causing him problems, and this worried many of the players fans that like to make a basketball bet.

'I'm having trouble bending my knees', said Nowitzki, who was wearing a protective sleeve over the knee, which was the same one that he sprained last season and caused the player to miss nine games. 'I've just got to get my legs stronger, get my base back. I've got to use my legs in my shot and hopefully they'll come back soon.'

On Wednesday, Nowitzki was also battling a cold, which caused him to miss the morning shootaround, but he did play in the game, and many fans were following the basketball odds all along.

After the long postseason run, followed by playing in the Olympic qualifying tournament for Germany at the end of the summer with great basketball odds, Nowitzki said that he was sick of the game and probably took too much time off.

That, together with the hastened training camp and the onslaught of games, he said, was the cause of the knee irritation, and many fans that enjoy making a basketball bet can see how that could have been an important factor.

'It's OK, better than it was three weeks ago, so that's very good', Nowitzki said.

But, its still just stiff and I cant move the way I want to, but it will be OK. Im going to keep on working, get a stronger base, get my legs strong where they were in June and hopefully Ill be back to my normal self.

Fans that like to make a basketball bet can see that Nowitzki is not the only injured Maverick. Vince Carter returned to Dallas before the game on Wednesday to have his sprained left foot examined, and the players fans hope that all goes well with him.

Nowitzkis fans, which include those that enjoy making a basketball bet, hope that the player recovers as soon as possible, as they would definitely like to see him in top form.

Courtesy of www.bookmakersinc.co.uk

Can the Fraport Skyliners Win Their Fifth Game In A Row At Home Against The LTi Giessen 46ers? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

January is always an interesting month in the Beko BBL as the Allstar break surfaces and the schedule allows many teams to have their two meetings of the season in only a short period of time. After the Fraport Skyliners celebrated a more than satisfying 64-56 win in the always noise infested Osthalle against the LTi Giessen 46ers on January second, the two teams will battle in round two of the 2012 Hessen derby again on January 20th in the Fraport arena. So much can happen in an 18 day span in this huge world like Hollywood actor George Clooney dating half of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleader squad and it somehow not being noticed, Tim Tebow getting one million marriage proposals for his heroic play in the last months and getting the thumbs up from stone cold Steve Austin for duplicating the infamous 3:16 against the New England Patriots which didnt happen, Paris Hilton setting a new Google record for clicks or Kim kardashian/Kris Humphries continuing to set new news records with their bizarre relationship. However one thing is certain, in this 18 day span nothing will change with the immaculate on going nine game winning streak of the Fraport Skyliners and four game winning streak at home against the LTi Giessen 46ers. The last time that Giessen won in Frankfurt was in 2007 as Rouven Roessler hit a buzzer beater dashing the hopes of the then Deutsche Bank Skyliners. Roessler is now playing for BG Karlsruhe since years and could enter the arena now and remain unnoticed by Skyliner players except for Jimmy Mckinney or sport director Kamil Novak who might cringe at his presence as they were in the arena on that bitter day. No current Giessen player was in the arena in 2007 and surely dont know about the long losing streak and will be focused on getting a much needed win to stay alive in the standings. Records are there to be broken. We dont care what the record is or who the team is. We just want to win, stressed Giessen 46er Achmadschah Zazai.

On January 20, the Fraport Skyliners will be visited by the LTi Giessen 46ers and a a very big special quality about the Hessen derby is that the two cities are only 65 kilometers apart, which gives fans the opportunity to be at both games. This is a charmed quality of service in the BBL that the distances are not as far, but in the NBA for example in a Lon Angeles-Boston series, it is very rare for fans to travel around the NBA, unless your actor Jack Nicholson, who can travel with a private jet, champagne and some models clinging from his arms. The Frankfurt-Giessen series is so close in comparison to NBA standards as if a kid had to only walk down the street to get some candy in the drug store. The two cities are are in size as different as are the skyscraper Messe turm in Frankfurt and a two story University building in Giessen. The town of Giessen is known as a University location and almost half of the population are students. Giessen is one of the few cities in Germany that has a Budhist temple and one of Electronic music most known German DJs Chris Liebing. Giessen is diminutive, but have a huge heart for Basketball.Giessen loves Basketball! It is tradition there, added Murat Didin.

Last season, despite losing eight players including key guys like David Teague, Kevin Johnson, and Lorenzo Williams and only keeping two players with Elvir Ovcina and Jannik Freese, the Giessen 46ers jumped out to a 5-2record and was one of the biggest surprises in the BEKO BBL last season together with Phoenix Hagen in the first two months. The team might not have beat the most glamorous sounding and strong BEKO BBL teams besides the Telekom Baskets Bonn, but they played The EWE Baskets Oldenburg tough and losing a nail bitter to the Brose Baskets Bamberg 81-80, a game where they made a furious comeback and just coming up short. 'We started playing defense after 30 minutes against Bamberg', stressed Elvir Ovcina. Giessen may not have the most talented, but they had achieved one important ingredient early that many teams have problems finding which is that early team chemistry. 'We had a complete squad and many people players complimented each other. We had very athletic wing players and big guys with great hands and that take up a lot of space. We knew how to work with each other and we know each time that when we stepped on the court, we were capable of surprising any team in the BEKO BBL', added Elvir Ovcina. In 2009-2010, the team started 0-6 and after six games last season had 4 wins already. 'Management did a good job bringing in new players. Only me and Jannik Freese remained. We might not have good results in preseason, but we always knew that if we continued to work hard, we would have success', stressed Elvir Ovcina. 'I wasnt surprised by the good Giessen start. They had some talent on their team that came together early', commented Quentin Pryor. 'Their strength were their guards who were great and you had a great inside presence with Peacock. As far their weaknesses, I think just consistency', expressed John Bynum. The question remained how well the Giessen 46ers would play if the team sustained an injury or went into a slump. Misfortune hit the club in Frankfurt as Anthony Smith got hurt in the first half in the 82-64 loss. After this loss, it seemed like some nasty plague was stuck in them as the team went on a 13 game losing streak as the team went from the playoffs places to the back places of the standings as quickly as Marv Albert can yelp yessssssssssssss. The team then made changes and some results started to evolve. The team brought in the fire man Michael Jordan to try to save the season and brought in coach Steven Key. 'Giessen had been up and down last season but they became a different team , with a new head coach and the addition of MJ, they can play with anyone on any night just like any other team in the BBL', warned John Bynum. Since the arrival of Jordan, the team started to win more games and slowly crawled away from the bottom. The team seemed very solid at the start of the season, but with the addition of new coach Steven key and Jordan and Jeffers, the team seemed to be so much stronger at the end. The LTI Giessen season was saved as they finished the season in 15th place with a record of 9-25. They finished the season losing six of their last seven games, but beat MBC on the second to last game day to save their miserable season.

Every new season, a new saying can be, it can only get better as fans can only hope that something will change and some kind of success will come back to the small university town. The club decided to bring in 29 year old Bjoern Harmsen who is younger than the star players Elvir Ovcina and Maurice Jeffers. Harmsen brought success to MBC, so why cant he do the same in Giessen? Back in the 70s, Giessen had nothing to do with cellar duels as they won many German titles, but any dreaming of that is as distant as Kevin Durnant ever playing for BBC Bayreuth. Our goal is to stay in the league. If we can limit injuries then maybe we can achieve a bit more, added Bjoern Harmsen. Harmsen came to Giessen and did a house cleaning axing eight players, but keeping team captain Elvir Ovcina who is getting worse with age, but continues to be one of the top centers in the league, fan favorite and x-factor Maurice Jeffers who can always change a game with his play, young German big man Robert Ohle and young developing German point guard Mathias Perl. He brought in MBC players Wayne Bernard who is a Beko BBL veteran and point guard Radenko Pilcevic. Some players didnt worl out like Angel Garcia and Bozo Djurasovic, but Harmsen had an ace in his back pocket bringing in more quality with second year man Barry Stewart, athletic rebounder and Euroleague veteran Koko Archibong and flashy Achmadschau Zazai. Harmsen also got a lot of credit for bringing in basketball project Misan Nikabatse who is always remembered for his dunk over Yao Ming in 2002 and seemed to be on his way to the NBA in 2002. His career didnt quite reach the heights that he expected to and he was saved by Harmsen as the German hadnt played professional basketball in the last two years.

At the moment, the LTI Giessen 46ers are keeping themselves a float in the middle field of the Beko BBL standings and position 15 and cant afford to go on a big losing streak as the cellar will creep up faster than Bob Cat guard Kemba Walker can sink a floater in the lane. Giessen started the season slow with a three game losing streak, but then won a wild 110-109 scoring festival in the Osthalle. They won back to back games in Trier and was the frst team this season to beat the Brose Baskets Bamberg at home 68-65. Giessen has been some what unpredictable as they beat Phoenix Hagen at home, but also lost on back to back weekends on the road in Munich and Tuebingen by a combined score of 59 points, but then again should have beat Braunschweig at home losing 63-62 not being able to win game on last possession. In the Beko BBL, any team can beat any team and Giessen has the potential to always be capable of making surprises. Giessen is a great team that plays tough. They play very well at home and play scrappy. They can move the ball well and have good perimeter shooters with Stewart and Bernard. They also know how to defend and press very well, stressed ex LTi Giessen 46er Michael Umeh. One thing that Giessen excels at is their guard play. You need to take away their guard play. They seem to make about 60% of their points from their guards. You also always have to be aware of Elvir Ovcina. I have played against him a lot and he is such a great passer and has great court vision, warned ex Wake Forest player Kyle Visser. Defense also seems to have gelled in the early going as the yhave allowed 75 points or fewer in eight of the first 14 games. Our strength is our defense. If we can keep teams at 75 points, then we always have a good chance to win, added Achmadschau Zazai. Despite the well rounded guard play, point guard Zazai knows where the team can still improve. We have to have better ball movement. We have the least assists in the league, warned Zazai. Since the loss to the Fraport Skyliners on January second, the LTi Giessen 46ers have a 1-1 record losing in Ulm and getting abig 76-61 win at home against the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. We havent changed much since the loss to Frankfurt. We have made many mistakes and want to continue to minimize them from game to game, warned Achmadschah Zazai.

The Fraport Skyliners may not have had the best start this season, but are slowly starting to recover thanks to their extremely strong and proud play on the road as they have won their last five straight wins on the road. The Fraport Skyliners still have some injury woes, but seemed to have played their best when confronted with tough injuries and undermanned line ups. The team has received a big spark off the bench from Devin Gibson (182-G, college: UTSA). The 182cm rookie played at the University of Texas at San Antonio and recently performed at the San Antonio Spurs training camp. In Wurzburg, he was a big reason for the win getting 11 points and setting the tone on offense with his penetration and drawing fouls and also adding stability to the defense. If Frankfurt can play like they did in Braunschweig then they will have good chances with their fighting mentality. Having Davidson play well and controlling their guards and denying Ovcina in the low post will be key for getting a win in Giessen, stressed ex EnBW Ludwigsburg center Kyle Visser. Frankfurt continue to do an excellent job limiting turnovers especially against press defense and will need to do it again in Giessen. Frankfurt has to take care of the ball and limit their turnovers against the Giessen press, warned Braunschweig sharp shooter Lamarr Greer. LTi Giessen guard Radenko Pilcevic already did his homework early about how to beat Frankfurt. We have to play tough defense like we did against Braunschweig. Frankfurt is better with the recent good play of Davidson and Burtschi. We have to stop these two guys, warned Radenko Pilcevic. If the game goes down to the wire, then Frankfurt should know which 46er will get the ball in his hand. Jeffers is our x-factor. He will get the ball in the deciding moment, warned Achmadschau Zazai. my ex teammate Jeffers brings a difference to the game when it counts, warned Michael Umeh. Jeffers has been out for weeks and was really missing in the 64-56 loss in Giessen and the team responded by bringing in Taj Mucullough who played at Winthrop with ex Tuebingen American Michael Jenkins and has gained experience having a gig in the Washington Wizzards pre season camp in 2008 and playing in countries like Israel, Latvia and Australia. This season, he played shortly for the Reno Big Horns in the D-league averaging 8,7ppg and 3,3rpg. He helps us a lot with his athleticism and draws many defenders to him which creates free space for us. He will help us a lot, warned Achmadschah Zazai. Zazai knows what Giessen will have to do better than what they couldnt do in the 64-56 loss 18 days ago. We have to defend consistently for 40 minutes, added Zazai.

In the last years, The Skyliners have dominated the Hessen derby posting a 11-2 record. Frankfurt has demonstrated a special confidence and calmness that makes the Osthalle in Giessen look more like their own personal lounge area than a hostile Giessen playground with naughty kids throwing sticks and stones. Who could forget the onslaught before Christmas 2005 as Frankfurt routed Giessen 96 to 63 with seven three pointers from Desmond Ferguson. I had a good rhythm going on in that game and my teammates made a good job getting me the ball. I wasnt able to find my rhythm much while I played in Frankfurt for various reasons, but that game was probably my highlight playing there, added ex Skyliner Desmond Ferguson. Three years ago under the guidance of Charles Barton, Frankfurt won a nail bitter 73 to 67 as Frankfurt showed nerves of steal in the dwindling minutes of the fourth quarter. Two years ago, Frankfurt won a tight game, even though it seemed like they were never in any real danger of losing as Derrick Allen led the team with 19 points and an energized Alex King flew into the arena with a specially made superman cape and steered the team off the bench scoring in double figures. Who could forget the buzzer beater by Karlsruhe German Rouven Roessler in 2007? Well that game winning shot that beat Frankfurt was 34 months ago, and Roessler still has the shot dancing in his dreams. I remember that buzzer beater as if it was yesterday. I got the video clip to the game three weeks ago, said ex Giessen 46er Rouven Roessler. . In the 2008-2009 season, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners won in Giessen 75-57 getting 19 points form Lorenzo Gordon. In Frankfurt, they pounded Giessen 93-72 as Pascal Roller and in 2009-2010, Frankfurt won at home 80-69 getting 22 points from Derrick Allen. The last game against Giessen was a nail bitter win by Frankfurt in Giessen which was won 69-68 as Pascal Roller won the game with 13 seconds to play with two free throws. In the first meeting last season Frankfurt won 82-64 as Giessen was outscored 48-21 in the second half. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Dashaun Wood with 21 points and Roger Powell added 18 points. In the second meeting in Frankfurt, Giessen lost 81-62 as Dashaun Wood scored 26 points. The last time that Frankfurt lost was in December 2002 and they have won the last nine games in a row against Giessen on the road and last four games in a row at home against the Hessen opponent.

The LTi Giessen 46ers are led by 32 year old 194cm shooting guard/small forward Maurice Jeffers who is back in Giessen for a fourth season. He played at St Louis (NCAA) and was drafted by The Sacremento Kings in 2001. He played five years in Spain before coming to the Giessen 46ers in 2008. In 2009-2010, he averaged 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 79.4%. Last season he played in Cyprus and Argentina before coming to Giessen where he finished the season playing 13 games: 10.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 44.7%, FT: 80.8%. In Spain, he won the Spanish LEB Gold (Cope Principe de Asturias) in 2008 with Leche Rio Breogan Lugo. The team also brought back 35 year old 211cm power forward/center Elvir Ovcina who came late to the Giessen 46ers in the 2009-2010 season and is playing his third season in Giessen. He is a movable center, who passes and scores well. He played at Syracuse (NCAA) from 1995-1999 and played a year together with ex NBA player John Wallace reaching the NCAA final in 1996 losing to Kentucky. He played for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg from 2001-2004 and won the BEKO BBL cup with Rhein Energy Cologne in 2005. He had his most success as a player with one team with Ostende winning the league title in 2006 and 2007 and cup in 2008. In 2009-2010 for Giessen, he played 14 games averaging 14.1ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 69.4%. Last season, he played 34 games: 11.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 76.4%.

Barry Stewart is a 23 year old 191cm shooting guard from Shelbyville, Tennessee who is playing his second season in the Beko BBL and first with Giessen. He played at Mississippi St. (NCAA) from 2006-2010 and in his senior year played 36 games: 11.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 37.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 71.4%. Last season he was a Beko BBL rookie with TBB Trier playing 35 games: 8.8ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 35.8%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 78.4%. Wayne Bernard who was the 2009 PRO A player of the year is a 30 year old 190cm combo guard from Poway, California who is playing his first season for the LTi Giessen 46ers. He has displayed a knack for knocking down clutch baskets in key situations and is a player that performs at his best in pressure situations. He has superb range on his jumper, and can also drive to the hoop with slashing moves. He is also a capable ball handler. He played at Davidson (NCAA) from 2000-2003. Bernard has very much experience having played in countries like Israel, Greece, France, Sweden and Finland It doesnt matter where Bernard has played, he has always been a scorer. in the 2008-2009 season where MBC moved up to the BEKO BBL, he played 30 games: 14.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 80.4%. In 2009-2010 for MBC, he played 34 games: 8.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-5 (1.5spg), FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 80.8%. Last season for MBC, he played 34 games: 11.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 85.7%. . Radenko Pilcevic is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Serbia that is playing his first season for Giessen. He had solid stats at KK Borac Cacak in 2008-2009 playing 31 games and averaging 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 85.1%. Pilcevic played for MBC from 2009-2011 and in his first season played 33 games averaging 7.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 72.0%. Last season for MBC, he played 27 games: 7.4ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 37.7%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 76.1%.

The team also brought in the very experienced Koko Archibong who is a 30 year old 202cm forward that has the Nigerian/American citizenship and is playing his first season with Giessen and has found a home in Germany as Giessen is his sixth team in the Beko BBL. He played at Pennsylvania (NCAA) from 1999-2003 and was Ivy League champion in 2000 and 2002. He then almost made it to the NBA in 2003 as he was one of the last cuts of the Los Angeles Lakers. He started his professional basketball career in France with Elan Bearnais Pau-Orthez (France-ProA): Euroleague: 13 games: 3.2ppg, 1.9rpg; French ProA League: 21games: 3.8ppg, 1.9rpg. He won the league title and cup in France. Besides playing the 2008-2009 season with Asseco Prokom Sopot (Poland-PLK): Euroleague: 13 games: 2.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.1apg; Polish League: 20 games: 6.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 70.6%,, he has been all of his career in Germany. He played for The Brose Baskets Bamberg from 2004-2006 winning the BEKO BBL title in 2005. He played for Alba Berlin in 2006-2007 (ULEB Cup: 12 games: 4.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.3apg; German League: 37 games: 6.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 30.8%, FT: 68.6%) and in 2007-2008 played for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners (ULEB Cup: 6 games: 11.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.5spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 83.3%; German League: 41 games: 8.4ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 43.4%, FT: 57.0%). In 2009-2010 he had a disappointing season in Duesseldorf playing 33 games: 11.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 70.2%. Last season, he played for BBC Bayreuth playing 16 games: 8.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 54.1%.

The team also signed 23 year old 209cm center Robert Ohle who started his basketball career in Paderborn. He already got Beko BBL experience from 2007-2010 playing a total of 35 beko BBL games and already played a Beko BBL game as a 19 year old. Last season, he played a year in the PRO A to sharpen his skills and get more playing time for the : Saar-Pfalz Braves playing 26 games: 8.4ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 48.3%, FT: 64.6%. He played at the European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 6 games: 5.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 73.7%, FT: 77.8%. Giessen also hauled in the quick 25 year old 177cm Achmadschah Zazai who has already played for 11 teams in his still young career. He started his basketball career at TUS Lichterfelde in 2003. From 2005-2011, he played for teams like SG FT/MTV Braunschweig, : BSG Ludwigsburg, Bremen Roosters, Horsens IC (Denmark), Telemotive Muenchen, Artland Dragons, TV Langen, USC Freiburg and last season for : BV Chemnitz 99 (Germany-ProA) playing 30 games: 11.6ppg, 2.8rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-4 (2.1spg), FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 64.7%. Chad Prewitt is a 31 year old 206cm power forward that was born in Cody Wyoming and is from Phoenix, Arizona. He is playing his first season with the Giessen 46ers. He played at Arizona State from 1998-2002. In his first three professional years, he played two years for the Dakota Wizzards (CBA) and one season for theCedar Rapids River Raiders (USBL). He then came to Europe and played most of his time with the Artland Dragons from 2005-2010. In the 2007-2008 season, he had a short stay with Ago Rethimno (Greece-A1, starting five), only pre-season, then moved to EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 12 games: 8.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 78.6%; ULEB Cup: 5 games: 10.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg. His best season with the Dragons was 2006-2007 when he averaged 11.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 44.0%, 3FGP: 40.8%, FT: 81.6%. He is a a great defender and team player who also has a nice shooting stroke. He can shoot the three with consistency, plays hard every night and wins everywhere he goes. He played a total of 175games for the Artland Dragons. Last season, he saw the glitz of FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-ProA): 28 games: 6.6ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 64.6%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 76.5%.

The team also got Misan Nikagbatse who is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Berlin that has the German/Nigerian citizenship. He can play both point and shooting guard. Can also rebound in the traffic. He has impressive physical skills, with an explosive leaping ability. He started his basketball career in 1998 with Lichterfelde Berlin. He already had NBA scouts after him after playing at the Albert Schweitzer Junior Championships in Mannheim (Germany) in 2000 where he was (Best Scorer -27.8ppg): All-Star 1st Team. He seemed to be near the jump to the NBA and went to top Euroleague team Olympiakos Pireus (Greece) in 2000, but never really found his role there as he played only a total of 41 games but got good experience playing 21 Euroleague games before being transported off to Italy. In 2003-2004, he returned to Germany playing with theMitteldeutscher Basketball Club winning the Fiba Europe Cup playing FIBA Europe Cup: 10 games: 9.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg; German 1.Bundesliga: 28 games: 11.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.9apg, 1.6spg, 3.0bpg. He then had a steady career in Italy from 2004-2007 playing for Euro Roseto, Cantu and Premiata Montegranaro. He then returned to Germany to play for : Koeln 99ers in 2007-2008 playing ULEB Cup: 8 games: 7.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 52%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 62.5%; German League: 15 games: 8.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 69.8%. In 2008-2009, he played for Cimberio Varese (Italy-Lega2): 23 games: 6.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 75.7%. From 2009-2011, he didnt play professional basketball as he played for DBV Charlottenburg (Germany-2.Regionalliga). Matthias Perl is a 22 year old 188cm quick point guard that is a relentless defender. He has been playing for Giessen teams since 2004 when he started for the MTV Giessen cadet team. He then played for VfB Giessen (Regionalliga) before playing for LTi Lich (ProA) from 2007-2009. In 2009-2010, he played for LTi Giessen 46ers (1.Bundesliga): 7 games: 0.7ppg; also played at Licher Basket Baeren (ProB): 28 games: 5.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 73.5%. Last season, he for Giessen he played 16 games: 1.6ppg, 1.0rpg. The LTi Giessen 46ers host the Fraport Skyliners on January 20th at, 19:30.

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  GREECE   


PAO cruises past Emporio Armani in Milan - by Eurobasket Center
Emporio Armani - Panathinaikos 57-78

Panathinaikos demonstrated its power on Thursday night in Milan. The reigning Euroleague champion blasted Emporio Armani 57-78 for 1-0 score in Group G of the Top 16. PAO took control on Armani from the beginning and never looked back. The Greens made impressive 10-24 lead in the first ten minutes and jumped to 23-43 at the HT. They reached 28-50 at the middle of Q3 and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. PAO touched plus 26 in the finish of third period and later just closed this game with routine for the final 57-78. Quarters: 10-24, 13-19, 10-15, 24-20. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) scored 12 points, Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) had 11 pts and 6 rebounds, while Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) nailed 10 points for his team. Each of PAO's players scored at least 3 points in this game and got at least 7 minutes on the court. In Armani, Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) was better than the others with 10 points and 6 rebounds. Mason Rocca (204-F-77, college: Princeton) (6 rebs) and Alessandro Gentile (197-G/F-92) scored 8 and 7 points respectively. PAO will host Unics in the next round. Armani will go Istanbul for the game against Fenerbahce Ulker.

Emporio Armani: Antonis Fotsis 10+6 boards, Mason Rocca 8+6 boards, Alessandro Gentile 7
Panathinaikos: David Logan 12, Romain Sato 11+6 boards, Mike Batiste 10

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  HUNGARY   


NYKK strengthens the roster by adding Brandon Fields - by Tamas Deri
The management of NYKK decided to add one more import player on the roster of coach Ferenczi's team as serbian guard Stefan Fekete (188-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) just received his hungarian nationality some days ago. The coaching staff was looking for a combo guard with some european experiences and decided for Brandon Fields (193-G-88, college: Nevada) who left Romania only before Christmas. The 193 cm tall guard graduated on the University of Nevada in 2010 and run a great rookie season averaging 14.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg in 34 games of the NCAA. He started his pro carreer with As de Sale in Morocco and helped his team to win the National Championship and Cup. In the Arab Club Championship As de Sale finished on the 2nd place. Last summer Fields decided to move to Europe and agreed with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu. He started the season very well, scored 21 points against Gaz Metan in the 1st round, had a season high of 26 points on the 19th of October against Dinamo Bucharest.Fields arrived to Hungary last night and will start to practice with his new team today.

Kwadzo Ahelegbe joins Kaposvar - by Levente Szabo
After the departure of Josh Wilson Kaposvar started to look immediately after a replacement and they decided to bring in for a 2 week tryout period Kwadzo Ahelegbe (187-G-88, college: N.Iowa).

The Ghanaian-American guard was the star player of Northern Iowa last year averaging 14.1ppg, 3.2rpg and 3.0apg. Kwadzo was known as a feared defender in his conference as he was selected to the MVC All-Defensive Team in the past 3 years and in his senior year he won the All-MVC Defensive Player of the Year award. He started his pro career in the Germany for BG Goettingen where he recorded 8.1ppg, 1.7rpg and 1.6apg in 26 minutes of action in the German Bundesliga and had 8.5ppg, 1.5rpg and 2.8apg in the EuroChallenge group stage before he left the team.

Kwadzos name means 'born on monday' and since he will join Kaposvar on Monday the management of the team could take this as a sign. Perhaps a new start will born next week for Kaposvar.


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  IBA   


IBA 2011-2012 Post Season Awards - by Gianni Pascucci
See here down the IBA Winter Season Individual Awards as communicated form the league yesterday.

Season MVP: Ryan Edwards (6'5''-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) - Kankakee County Soldiers
Defensive Player of the Year: Chris Wesby (6'8''-F-83, college: Indiana-S.Bend)- Gary Splash
Coach of the Year- Barry Bradford - Kankakee County Soldiers
GM of the Year- Melvin Smith - Rockford Riverdawgs
IBA Community Award- Jarred Axon (5'11''-G-85, college: E.Michigan)

IBA 2011-12 All-Stars:
Tony Bennett (6'1''-G-84, college: Bradley) - Chicago Redline
Antwan Ware (6'5''-F, college: Tuskegee) - Chicago Redline
Joe Young (6'0''-G, college: Canisius) - Battle Creek Knights
Tim Williams (6'3''-G-89, college: S.Alabama) - Battle Creek Knights
Carl Fine (5'11''-G/F-83, college: Newman) - Lake County Stars
Anthony Spencer (6'5''-G/F, college: Johnson CCC) - Lake County Stars
Reynaldo Howard (6'0''-PG-87) - Gary Splash
Marcus Jackson (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Benedictine, KS) - Gary Splash
Robert Malone (6'5''-F, college: Rockford) - Rockford Riverdawgs
Ameer Watts (5'10''-G-82, college: Missouri So.) - Rockford Riverdawgs
Nicholas Zachery (6'3''-G-79, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: UALR) - Rockford Riverdawgs
Stan Chismark (6'5''-F-84, college: Olivet Nazarene) - Kankakee County Soldiers
Cece Malone (6'9''-F/C-80, college: Prairie St. CC) - Kankakee County Soldiers
Ryan Edwards - Kankakee County Soldiers
Anthony Kyle (5'9''-PG-81, college: Miles) - Kankakee County Soldiers

*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


D1 Round 12: Skallagrimur defeats Hamar in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 12 in the D1 took place in Hamar. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th ranked Hamar (6-5) to second ranked Skallagrimur (8-3) 86-83 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hamar. Hamar was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 32-26 charge of Skallagrimur, which allowed them to win the game. Skallagrimur maintains second position with 8-3 record having six points less than leader KFI. Hamar at the other side keeps the fourth place with five games lost. They share the position with IA. Skallagrimur are looking forward to face FSU (#8) in Selfoss in the next round where they are favorite. Hamar will play at home against Breidablik (#3) in Kopavogur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Breidablik (7-5) against ninth ranked Thor AK (4-7) on Friday night. Host Breidablik was defeated by Thor AK in Kopavogur 88-71. Thor AK have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place. Breidablik at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Thor AK will play against IG (#9) in the next round. Breidablik will play against Hamar (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Armann managed to get a second victory, breaking the nine-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they won against seventh-ranked IG in Reykjav­k 79-68. Armann maintains tenth position with 2-10 record. IG lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with FSU. Armann will meet league's leader KFI in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. IG will play against Thor AK (#7) in Akureyri and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
D1 top team - KFI (12-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked IA (6-5) 99-88. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of IA. KFI maintains first position with 12-1 record. Newly promoted IA dropped to the fourth place with five games lost. KFI's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Armann (#10) in Reykjav­k and are hoping to win another game. IA will play on the road against Hottur (#6) in Egilsstadir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game took place in Egilsstadir where 6th ranked Hottur (5-6) was upset on its own court by ninth ranked FSU (4-8) 85-70 on Tuesday. FSU moved-up to eighth place, which they share with IG. Loser Hottur keeps the sixth position with six games lost. FSU will face league's second-placed Skallagrimur in Borgarnes in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.



Hamar - Skallagrimur 83-86

The most exciting game of round 12 in the D1 took place in Hamar. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th ranked Hamar (6-5) to second ranked Skallagrimur (8-3) 86-83 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hamar. Hamar was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 32-26 charge of Skallagrimur, which allowed them to win the game. Skallagrimur maintains second position with 8-3 record having six points less than leader KFI. Hamar at the other side keeps the fourth place with five games lost. They share the position with IA. Skallagrimur are looking forward to face FSU (#8) in Selfoss in the next round where they are favorite. Hamar will play at home against Breidablik (#3) in Kopavogur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 140295


Hottur - FSU 70-85

An interesting game took place in Egilsstadir where 6th ranked Hottur (5-6) was upset on its own court by ninth ranked FSU (4-8) 85-70 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by FSU. Hottur was better in fourth quarter 18-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. FSU moved-up to eighth place, which they share with IG. Loser Hottur keeps the sixth position with six games lost. FSU will face league's second-placed Skallagrimur in Borgarnes in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
gschID: 167718


Armann - IG 79-68

Bottom-ranked Armann managed to get a second victory, breaking the nine-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they won against seventh-ranked IG in Reykjav­k 79-68. The game without a history. Armann led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Armann maintains tenth position with 2-10 record. IG lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eighth place with eight games lost. They share the position with FSU. Armann will meet league's leader KFI in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. IG will play against Thor AK (#7) in Akureyri and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 140291


Breidablik - Thor AK 71-88

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Breidablik (7-5) against ninth ranked Thor AK (4-7) on Friday night. Host Breidablik was defeated by Thor AK in Kopavogur 88-71. Thor AK have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place. Breidablik at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Thor AK will play against IG (#9) in the next round. Breidablik will play against Hamar (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 140292


IA - KFI 88-99

D1 top team - KFI (12-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked IA (6-5) 99-88. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of IA. It looked good early as IA took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then KFI had a 29-21 second period charge getting the lead and IA was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 88-99. KFI maintains first position with 12-1 record. Newly promoted IA dropped to the fourth place with five games lost. KFI's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Armann (#10) in Reykjav­k and are hoping to win another game. IA will play on the road against Hottur (#6) in Egilsstadir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 140293




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


Standings - 1 Division
D1 Standings
 1. KFI 12-1 
 2. Skallagrimur 8-3 
 3. Breidablik 7-5 
 4. Hamar 6-5 
 5. IA 6-5 
 6. Hottur 5-6 
 7. Thor AK 4-7 
 8. FSU 4-8 
 9. IG 4-8 
 10. Armann 2-10 


Stats Leaders (Men)
Points Per Game
 Robert JARVIS
  IR
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 25
 1. Jarvis, IR25.0 
 2. Walkup, Fjolnir24.3 
 3. Sovic, IR24.1 
 4. Govens, Thor Thorl23.9 
 5. Dagostino, Keflavik22.9 
 6. Echols, Njardvik22.8 
 7. Shuler, Haukar22.7 
 8. Johnson, Valur22.0 
 9. Tairu, KR21.4 
 10. Bartolotta, IR21.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Quincy HANKINS-COLE
  Snaef.
  (203-F-90)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Hankins-Cole, Snae.13.6 
 2. Ringgold, Thor Tho.11.3 
 3. Echols, Njardvik11.2 
 4. Tratnik, Valur10.8 
 5. Walkup, Fjolnir10.6 
 6. Shuler, Haukar10.0 
 7. Smith, Haukar9.9 
 8. Hampton, Tindastoll9.9 
 9. Cole, Keflavik9.8 
 10. Bullock, Grindavik9.4 
Assists Per Game
 Giordan WATSON
  Grindavik
  (178-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Watson, Grindavik6.8 
 2. Miller, Tindastoll6.7 
 3. Shouse, Stjarnan6.4 
 4. Hall, Snaefell6.3 
 5. O''Neil, Fjolnir4.9 
 6. Dagostino, Keflavik4.8 
 7. Haraldsson, Haukar4.6 
 8. Steinarsson, Fjoln.4.4 
 9. Horton, KR4.3 
 10. Sigurgeirsso., Sn.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Holmes, Njardvik3.1 
 2. Hall, Snaefell2.7 
 3. Parker, Keflavik2.6 
 4. Cothran, Stjarnan2.6 
 5. Shuler, Haukar2.5 
 6. Shouse, Stjarnan2.4 
 7. Miller, Tindastoll2.3 
 8. Gunnarsson, Kefla.2.0 
 9. Watson, Grindavik1.9 
 10. Hampton, Tindasto.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Christopher SMITH
  Haukar
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Smith, Haukar2.9 
 2. Hugee, Valur2.3 
 3. Tratnik, Valur2.3 
 4. Hampton, Tindastoll1.3 
 5. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.1.3 
 6. Thorsteinsso., Gri.1.2 
 7. Ragnarsson, Fjolnir1.1 
 8. Allen, Tindastoll1.0 
 9. Magnusson, KR0.9 
 10. Johnson, Valur0.9 


Euro news - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Results from last games with Icelandic players around Europe.

Germany.
Chemitz 83 MBC 94. Hordur Vilhjalmsson 5 points, 5 rebounds 4 assist in the win.
Spain.
Caja Laboral 65 Assignia Manresa 76. Haukur Palsson 2 points and 1 rebounds in the win.
CAOI Zaragoza 96 Mutua Joventut 73. Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) with a very good game for CAI 19 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assist.
Sweden.
08 Stockholm 104. EcoOrebro 72 Helgi magnusson 10 pts, 5 boards and 5 assist for = (.
Uppsala 103 Sundsvall 86 Jakob Sigurdarson 23 points, 1 rebs and 2 assist. Hlynur Baeringsson 15 pts, 13 rebs, 3 assist.
Solna 107 08 Stockholm 78. Logi Gunnarsson 18 pts, 5 boards and 1 assist for Solna. Helgi Magnusson 17 points, 6 rebs and 2 assist
Jamtland 77. Boras 93. Brynjar Bjornsson 16 points 5 assist and 4 steals for Jamtland

Division 1 results - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Division 1 results from today.
IA 88 KFI 99. Terrence Watson 26 points & 14 rebounds. Hordur Nikulasson 17 for IA. Kristjan Andresson (188-G-91) 21 Craig Schoen 20 Edin Suljic 19 for KFI
Hamar 83. Skallagrimur 86. Louise Kirkman 21. Ragnar Nathanelson 12 points & 13 boards for Hamar. Darrell Flake 23 & 13 board. Sigurdur Thorarinsson 18 for Skallagrim
Breidablik 71. Thor Ak 88. Arnar Petursson 18 Thorsteinn Gunnlaugsson 13 & 18 rebs for Breidablik. Eric Palm 20. Darko Milisevic 15 & 13 rebs. Stefan Torfason (195-F-93) 15 & 12 boards for Thor

Express L. Round 12 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Tindastoll (6-6) outlasted Stjarnan (8-4) in overtime by three points 88-85 on Thursday night. The game took place in Stjarnan. But the guests from Sauoarkrokur were better at the end. Worth to mention a great performance of Maurice Miller who helped to win the game recording 30 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals. Tindastoll's coach Bardur Eythorsson used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Tindastoll moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Snaefell and IR. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. Tindastoll will face higher ranked Keflavik (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Stjarnan will play against Valur in Reykjavik.

In the last game of round 12 winless Valur was destroyed by Njardvik on the opponent's court 98-76. Snaefell managed to outperform Haukar in a home game 80-70. KR managed to beat Thor Thorl on the road 80-73. IR defeated Fjolnir on its own court 107-97. Grindavik beat Keflavik in a road game 86-85.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 33 points (!!!) and 19 rebounds by J'Nathan Bullock of Grindavik.

Stjarnan - Tindastoll 85-88 OT

Tindastoll (6-6) outlasted Stjarnan (8-4) in overtime by three points 88-85 on Thursday night. The game took place in Stjarnan. But the guests from Sauoarkrokur were better at the end. The guests trailed by 9 points after three quarters before their 20-11 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 3-point victory in overtime. Tindastoll forced 24 Stjarnan turnovers. Stjarnan was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Maurice Miller (187-88, college: Georgia Tech) who helped to win the game recording 30 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals and the other American import guard Curtis Allen (193-86, college: ORU) who added 17 points and 19 rebounds during the contest. Tindastoll's coach Bardur Eythorsson used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was swingman Marvin Valdimarsson (198-81) with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Tindastoll moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Snaefell and IR. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. Tindastoll will face higher ranked Keflavik (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Stjarnan will play against Valur in Reykjavik.
Top scorers:
Stjarnan: M.Valdimarsson 22+5reb+4ast, K.Cothran 17+5reb+1ast, J.Shouse 15+5reb+5ast, R.Lindmets 12+7reb+4ast, F.Helgason 8+8reb+3ast, D.Jonsson 5+3reb+1ast
Tindastoll: M.Miller 30+5reb+7ast, C.Allen 17+19reb+1ast, S.Birgisson 13+2reb+1ast, T.Johannsson 11+2reb+3ast, F.Hreinsson 8+1reb+1ast, H.Margeirsson 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 140136


Njardvik - Valur 98-76

Rather expected game when bottom-ranked Valur (0-12) was crushed on the road by tenth ranked Njardvik (5-7) 98-76 on Thursday. The game without a history. Njardvik led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Valur's 38. Njardvik forced 28 Valur turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Travis Holmes (193-86, college: VMI, agency: Strategic Sports) who helped to win the game recording 29 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and the other American import power forward Cameron Echols (203-81, college: Ball St.) who added 22 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Slovenian power forward Igor Tratnik (206-89) with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 16 rebounds and guard Ragnar Gylfason (183-85) scored 23 points and 5 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Njardvik moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Fjolnir. Newly promoted Valur still closes the standings with 12 games lost. Njardvik will face Haukar (#11) in Hafnarfjordur in the next round. Valur will play at home against Stjarnan and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Valur: R.Gylfason 23+4reb+5ast, G.Johnson 17+1reb+4ast, I.Tratnik 14+16reb+2ast, K.Olafsson 6+2reb+2ast, H.Dicko 6+1reb, B.Petursson 5+7reb
Njardvik: T.Holmes 29+6reb+4ast, C.Echols 22+10reb+2ast, E.Fridriksson 16+4reb+3ast, O.Jonsson 7+3reb+3ast, R.Erlingsson 6+2reb+2ast, R.Oli Alexandersson 5+3reb+5ast
gschID: 140137


Snaefell - Haukar 80-70

Rather predictable result in Stykkisholmur where eighth ranked Snaefell (6-6) defeated 11th ranked Haukar (2-10) 80-70 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Snaefell. Haukar was better in fourth quarter 24-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Quincy Hankins-Cole (203-90, agency: Hoops Ambassadors) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds and forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) who added 8 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Snaefell's coach Ingi Thor Steinthorsson allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American forward Christopher Smith (198-82, college: St.Edward's) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Hayward Fain (196, college: St.Augustine, agency: Strategic Sports) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Snaefell have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Tindastoll and IR. Haukar lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with ten games lost. Snaefell will face league's second-placed KR in Reykjavik in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Haukar will play at home against Njardvik (#10) in Njardvik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Haukar: C.Smith 22+13reb+1ast, H.Oskarsson 15+1reb+3ast, H.Fain 12+10reb+3ast, E.Barja 11+10reb+3ast, D.Hermannsson 5, H.Einarsson 4+4reb+4ast
Snaefell: Q.Hankins-Cole 18+12reb, M.Hall 15+3reb+2ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 13+4reb+3ast, S.Davidsson 12+3reb+1ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 8+8reb+4ast, O.Hjartarson 5+3reb
gschID: 140138


Thor Thorl - KR 73-80

Everything could happen in Thorlakshofn at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked KR and 5th ranked Thor Thorl had identical 7-4 record. But Thor Thorl was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Reykjavik 80-73 on Thursday night. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 22-12. But Thor Thorl won second period 23-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Thor Thorl 42-25 including a 30-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Joshua Brown (187-88, college: Towson) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds and Serbian forward Dejan Sencanski (198-84, college: Abil.Christian, agency: JEMsports) who added 13 points and 12 rebounds during the contest. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. The best for the losing side was American forward Junior Hairston (203-84, college: Towson, agency: KMG Sports Management) with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 blocks and guard Gudmundur Jonsson (191-84) scored 14 points and 4 assists. Four Thor Thorl players scored in double figures. KR have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion (8-4) moved-up to second place, which they share with Keflavik and Stjarnan. Newly promoted Thor Thorl keeps the fifth position with five games lost. KR will face Snaefell (#7) in Stykkisholmur in the next round where they are favorite. Thor Thorl will play at home against IR in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Thor Thorl: J.Hairston 21+7reb, G.Jonsson 14+4reb+4ast, B.Janev 13+4reb, D.Govens 12+2reb+1ast, D.Hilmarsson 8+5reb+4ast, B.Ragnarsson 5+2reb+3ast
KR: J.Brown 22+7reb+3ast, H.Magnusson 17+2reb, D.Sencanski 13+12reb+3ast, R.Ferguson 7+6reb, E.Johannsson 7+3reb, F.Magnusson 7+8reb+5ast
gschID: 140139


IR - Fjolnir 107-97

Everything could happen in Reykjavik at the game between two tied teams. Both sixth ranked IR and 7th ranked Fjolnir had identical 5-6 record. This time IR used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Reykjav­k 107-97 on Thursday night. IR made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. IR had a 32-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Robert Jarvis (180-87, college: ORU) who helped to win the game recording 28 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and Serbian-Canadian forward Nemanja Sovic (198-77, college: Pfeiffer) who added 28 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Calvin O'Neil (193-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) with 28 points and 7 assists and his fellow American import forward Nathan Walkup (200-88, college: Texas A&M) scored 24 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Fjolnir players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. IR maintains sixth position with 6-6 record, which they share with Snaefell and Tindastoll. Fjolnir lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth place with seven games lost. IR will face higher ranked Thor Thorl (#5) in Thorlakshofn in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fjolnir will play on the road against the league's leader Grindavik (#1).
Top scorers:
Fjolnir: C.O'Neil 28+3reb+7ast, N.Walkup 24+8reb+4ast, A.Gudmundsson 17+1reb+2ast, J.Sverrisson 15+9reb, D.Gretarsson 6+2reb+1ast, G.Olafsson 3
IR: R.Jarvis 28+5reb+6ast, N.Sovic 28+5reb+4ast, J.Bartolotta 21+6reb+2ast, H.Fridriksson 9+3reb+2ast, K.Jonasson 8+7reb+2ast, E.Onundarson 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 140140


Keflavik - Grindavik 85-86

There was no surprise when one of their biggest challengers Keflavik (8-4) was edged at home by first ranked Grindavik (11-1) 86-85 on Thursday. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-87, college: Cleveland St., agency: Pro One Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 19 rebounds and the other American import guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) who added 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Charles Parker (193-85, college: Millersville) with 24 points and 8 rebounds and the former international guard Magnus Gunnarsson (186-81) scored 27 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Four Keflavik players scored in double figures. Grindavik have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-1 record. Loser Keflavik dropped to the second place with four games lost. Grindavik will face Fjolnir (#9) in Reykjav­k in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Keflavik will play on the road against Tindastoll (#8) in Sauoarkrokur.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: M.Gunnarsson 27+4reb+2ast, C.Parker 24+8reb+3ast, V.Valsson 16+2reb+6ast, J.Cole 12+8reb+2ast, H.Halldorsson 6+4reb, S.Gunnarsson 0
Grindavik: J.Bullock 33+19reb+1ast, G.Watson 15+5reb+4ast, J.Olafsson 15+2reb+3ast, B.Brynjolfsson 6, T.Olafsson 6+2reb+1ast, S.Thorsteinsson 6+7reb
gschID: 140135




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


Cup games time changes / Weekly Preview - by Patrick Maher
Please note the following time changes for the 2012 National Cup Finals, which take place on Friday, February 3rd 2012 and is televised live on Setanta Sports television.

Friday, February 3 2012
Basketball Ireland Womens SuperLeague National Cup Final
DCU Mercy V UL, 18:45

Basketball Ireland Mens SuperLeague National Cup Final
UL Eagles V UCC Demons, 20:45

BASKETBALL IRELAND WEEKLY PREVIEW

LEAGUE RESUMES AFTER CUP DRAMA
In the Nivea for Mens SuperLeague, Northern conference leaders DCU Saints travel to Cork on Sunday to play Bord Gais Neptune.
UCC Demons, fresh from their National cup semi final win over Bord Gais Neptune, will host Belfast Star and the other cup finalists UL Eagles entertain UCD Marian.
11890 Killester will be hoping to erase their cup exit when they travel west to play Moycullen.
In the Nivea Womens SuperLeague leaders UL face Liffey Celtics, .while there is an interesting Cork derby at the Neptune stadium when Team Montenotte Hotel entertain Singletons Supervalu Brunell.
DCU Mercy, who are on the back of their emphatic cup win over 11890 Killester, travel to Waterford for a clash with Wildcats with Ulster Rockets hoping to get back to winning ways when they host Meteors.
There is an interesting Dublin derby at the Oblate Hall Inchicore when Oblate Dynamos go head to head with 11890 Killester.
No doubt the big game of the weekend in the Nivea for Mens SuperLeague will be the clash between Bord Gais Neptune and DCU Saints.
Neptune will be hoping to get back to winning ways following their cup exit and coach Mark Scannell is looking forward to another stern test for his promising side.
Saints were too strong for us when we last played them in the SuperLeague and in the end they blitzed us, said Scannell. Players will have to get rid of the cobwebs and get ready for action as Saints are a physical team and its important for us to get back to winning ways.
For the Saints coach David Donnelly it will be refreshing for his side to get back to playing after a two week break since their last competitive game.
Playing at Neptune is always a difficult proposition and I am sure they will want to revenge the win we had over them on our home court, David said.
Neptune will also want to get the cup defeat out of their system and we will have to be very focused if we are to get maximum points from this game.
UL Eagles will be hoping to continue their winning ways when they entertain UCD Marian at the UL Arena.
The Limerick side had to show battling qualities in their cup win over 11890 Killester and coach Mark Keenan believes this will be another tough test.
We have had two really tough games against UCD already this season & I expect no different this weekend, said Eagles Head Coach Mark Keenan. The return to play after injury of Dan James makes them a much better offensive team. We must keep our own feet on the ground after last weekends cup semi final win over Killester. We need to win to keep the pressure on Neptune & UCC Demons in the southern conference title race.
Fran Ryan the UCD boss has had a frustrating season but his teams performance against DCU Saints in their last league game was a breath of fresh air despite a narrow defeat.
We are improving and showing a resemblance of the form we showed in our preseason but a game at the UL Arena is a tough task for any side and we will need to be at our very best to get a win, Fran said.
Moycullen have proved difficult opponents for some teams on their home court at the NUIG and their clash with 11890 Killester is eagerly awaited.
The Clontarf side were disappointed following their cup semi final defeat in Cork last week and coach Darren ONeill will be rallying his troops for a better performance.
'Losing a nine point lead with minutes to go was crazy, said Killester Head Coach Darren ONeill. We have to learn from it and go to moycullen and win and hope that someone does us a favour with DCU Saints.
Moycullen coach Gerard Lyons is happy with this campaign and will be urging his players to compete hard.
Killester are a talented side and I have no doubt that to win we will have to play good defence and consistently execute scoring opportunities, Gerard said.
UCC Demons played some outstanding basketball in their cup win over arch rivals Neptune and coach Paul Kelleher will be hoping for a repeat when they welcome Belfast Star to the Mardyke Arena.
This is going to be a very difficult game for a number of reasons and we will have to be very focused as its a potential banana skin, Paul said.
They are coached by one of the best in Danny Fulton that beat us on their last visit to the Mardyke so it gives us an indication on how hard we are going to have to work to get the result we are looking for.
The Star coach Danny Fulton was in Cork last week to take in the national cup semi finals and is highly impressed with this Demons squad.
Demons have had the same winning mentality for the past 40 years and at this present time they have a serious team that will take some stopping, Danny said.
In the Nivea Womens SuperLeague, Waterford Wildcats entertain DCU Mercy as Mark Ingle hopes to lead his team to another win before next weeks national cup final against UL.
We need to be at our best to secure maximum points in this game as Wildcats can be a handful on their home court, Mark said.
Its always good to go into a cup final on the back of a winning run and that will be a priority for us against Wildcats.
Ulster Rockets have been impressive on their home court and they will feel confident when they host Meteors at Anderstown.
The season to date has been a great experience for my players and I am sure this will be another highly entertaining game, said the Ulster coach Breda Dick.
Meteors have a very good underage programme and their style of basketball is always a pleasure to watch.

Basketball Ireland Upcoming Fixtures

Saturday January 21st 2012
Nivea for Men Superleague
Moycullen v Killester, NUIG Kingfisher, 16:00; UL Eagles v UCD Marian, UL Arena, 19:30
Nivea Womens SuperLeague
Waterford Wildcats v DCU Mercy, Mercy Gym, 20:15; Ulster Rockets v Meteors, DLS Anderstown, 18:30; Oblate Dynamos v Killester, Oblate Hall, 19:00; Team Montenotte Hotel v Singletons SuperValu Brunell, Neptune Stadium, 19:00; Liffey Celtics v UL, Leixlip Amenities Centre, 19:30
Basketball Ireland Mens Division One
Matt OFlaherty Chemist Titans v CHM Ballon, Renmore Community Centre, 19:00; Team Loftus Recycling Ballina v Neptune, Ballina Sports & Leisure Centre, 19:30; Team Garveys St.Marys v Team Meadowlands St.Brendans, Castleisland Community Centre, 19:45
Basketball Ireland Women Division One
Tralee Imperials v UL, Mercy Mounthawk, 16:00; Scruffys St.Pauls Killarney v Team Tom McCarthys St.Marys, AURA Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre, 19:00; Foireann na Gaillimhe v Meteors, Calasanctius College, 19:30
Sunday January 22nd 2012
Nivea for Mens Superleague
UCC Demons v Belfast Star, Mardyke Arena, 15:15; Bord Gais Neptune v DCU Saints, Neptune Stadium, 14:00

Courtesy :

Shane Whelan
Communications Manager
www.basketballireland.ie

Pat Maher www.maherprobasket.webs.com


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


Maccabi Electra celebrates in Kaunas - by Eurobasket Center
Zalgiris - Maccabi T-A 76-84

Maccabi Electra celebrated valuable 76-84 victory in Kaunas on Thursday night. The Israeli powerhouse has 1-0 score now in Group H of the Euroleague Top 16 sharing the first place with Regal Barca. Zalgirs started with defeat, as well as Bennet Cantu. Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) scored 15 points for the winners and Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) had 14 points, plus 5 boards. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) (5 rebs, 7 as) and Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) (6 rebs) helped their team with 12 and 11 points respectively. Zalgiris got 15 points from Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85), who spent just 13 minutes on the court. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) had 14 points and 5 assists, while Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points and also 5 as. Maccabi dominated in the first half as they made 16-23 in the first period and jumped to 37-48 at the HT. Mostly thanks to Milovan Rakovic and Marko Popovic, Zalgiris managed to recover after the breather and came to 61-64 with 10 minutes to go. In the finish of this game it was 74-77 for Maccabi and Langford made two free throws after that. Jankunas was blocked and later Popovic missed one FT, while Mallet made one at the other side for plus 5. Weems missed for 3 and Maccabi celebrated huge win at the beginning of Top 16 stage. Maccabi waits Regal Barca in the next round. Zalgiris will travel to Cantu.

Zalgiris: Milovan Rakovic 15, Marko Popovic 14+5 as, Mantas Kalnietis 10+5 as
Maccabi: Demond Mallet 15, Lior Eliyahu 14+5 boards, Keith Langford 12+5 boards+7 as, Richard Hendrix 11+6 boards

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


PAO cruises past Emporio Armani in Milan - by Eurobasket Center
Emporio Armani - Panathinaikos 57-78

Panathinaikos demonstrated its power on Thursday night in Milan. The reigning Euroleague champion blasted Emporio Armani 57-78 for 1-0 score in Group G of the Top 16. PAO took control on Armani from the beginning and never looked back. The Greens made impressive 10-24 lead in the first ten minutes and jumped to 23-43 at the HT. They reached 28-50 at the middle of Q3 and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. PAO touched plus 26 in the finish of third period and later just closed this game with routine for the final 57-78. Quarters: 10-24, 13-19, 10-15, 24-20. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) scored 12 points, Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) had 11 pts and 6 rebounds, while Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) nailed 10 points for his team. Each of PAO's players scored at least 3 points in this game and got at least 7 minutes on the court. In Armani, Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) was better than the others with 10 points and 6 rebounds. Mason Rocca (204-F-77, college: Princeton) (6 rebs) and Alessandro Gentile (197-G/F-92) scored 8 and 7 points respectively. PAO will host Unics in the next round. Armani will go Istanbul for the game against Fenerbahce Ulker.

Emporio Armani: Antonis Fotsis 10+6 boards, Mason Rocca 8+6 boards, Alessandro Gentile 7
Panathinaikos: David Logan 12, Romain Sato 11+6 boards, Mike Batiste 10

Novipiu Casale Monferato lands Jasmin Hukic - by Eurobasket News
Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Italy. The experienced Bosnian forward penned a deal with Novipiu Casale Monferato for rest of the season. Hukic started it with Enisey Krasnoyarsk where he had 9.4 ppg, 4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 9 games in VTB United League. He also added 8.4 ppg and 2 rpg for 8 games in EuroChallenge, while his numbers in Russian league were lower. Enisey and Hukic parted ways few days ago. Jasmin Hukic spent last season with Ukrainian Donetsk helping them to reach the Playoff Finals. In 2009/10, he was a member of Benetton Treviso. For 27 games in SerieA, Hukic averaged 7 points and 2.9 rebounds. In the past, he played for Union Olimpija, Prokom Trefl Sopot, Ural Great Perm, Hemofarm, Hapoel Tel-Aviv and Sloboda Tuzla. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Forward of the Year -08. He won Adriatic league titles with Hemofarm and Union Olimpija, Slovenian titles with Olimpija and Polish title with Prokom. Jasmin Hukic played for the Bosnian NT from 1998 to 2008.

Regal Barca beats Benent Centu for 1-0 in Group H - by Eurobasket Center
Regal Barca - Bennet Cantu 65-60

Regal Barca had to work very hard to beat Bennet Cantu 65-60 on Thursday night. The Spanish champ has 1-0 record now in Group H of the Euroleague Top 16 sharing the first place with Maccabi Electra. Cantu and Zalgiris have 0-1. Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) was the leading player in victory with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (valuation 24). Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) had 13 points and 9 rebs, and Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) scored 11 points. In Cantu, Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) (9 rebs) and former Barca player Gianluca Basile (192-G-75) netted 13 points each. Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) and Denis Marconato (212-C-75) stopped to 9 pts each. Cantu had 15-18 lead at the end of the first quarter and 28-30 at the halftime. Teams changed in lead in the finish of Q3, which ended with 49-49 tie. Mostly owing to Chuck Eidson and Kosta Perovic, Regal Barca made crucial 10-2 run in the last quarter, which later allowed them to win this game. Quarters: 15-18, 13-12, 21-19, 16-11. Barca goes to Tel-Aviv next week. Cantu will host Zalgiris.

Regal Barca: Chuck Eidson 15+5 boards+5 as, Erazem Lorbek 13+9 boards, Marcelinho Huertas 11
Bennet Cantu: Vladimir Micov 13+9 boards, Gianluca Basile 13, Giorgi Shermadini 9, Denis Marconato 9

*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


Stephan Konate leaves Palencia - by Eurobasket News
Stephan Konate (187-G-80) is no longer a player of Palencia. The sides have reached an agreement on terms of contract termination. The guard joined Palencia at the start of the season. He tallied 2.6 points and 1.2 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Previously Stephan Konate had stints with Africa Sports, ABC Abidijan, ASE Essaouira. The guard is the member of Ivorian National Team. He participated at 2011 African Championship. Stephan Konate posted 12.0 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in Madagaskar. The guard has been playing for Ivory Coast since 2003. He also was the member of Ivorian U18 National Team before.

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


Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague
Points Per Game
 Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 19.9
 1. Kawamura, Tochigi19.9 
 2. Sakuragi, Aishin SH18.1 
 3. Hale, Mitsubis.17.4 
 4. Kanamaru, Panasoni.16.5 
 5. McFarlin, Tochigi16.1 
 6. Lewis, Hokkaido L.14.8 
 7. Orimo, Hokkaido L.14.6 
 8. Takeuchi, Hitac.14.3 
 9. Ricci, Toyota Alva.13.7 
 10. Igarashi, Mitsubi.13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 J.R. SAKURAGI
  Aishin SH
  (206-F/C-76)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Sakuragi, Aishin SH11.9 
 2. McFarlin, Tochigi10.3 
 3. Takeuchi, Hitac.9.6 
 4. Diouf, Hokkaido L.8.3 
 5. Moss, Toshiba BT8.2 
 6. Gibbs, Toyota A.7.4 
 7. O''Bannon, Panason.7.3 
 8. Young, Aishin SH7.1 
 9. Ricci, Toyota Alva.6.8 
 10. Lewis, Hokkaido L.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Ryota SAKURAI
  Hokkaido.
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Sakurai, Hokkaido.4.2 
 2. Igarashi, Mitsubis.3.7 
 3. Kawamura, Tochigi3.6 
 4. Kashiwakura, Hitac.3.4 
 5. Sakuragi, Aishin SH3.0 
 6. Watanabe, Panason.3.0 
 7. Kashiwagi, Aishin3.0 
 8. Kinoshita, Panason.2.9 
 9. Lewis, Hokkaido L.2.6 
 10. Takeuchi, Hitac.2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Shinsuke KASHIWAGI
  Aishin S.
  (183-PG-81)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Kashiwagi, Aishin2.1 
 2. Kawamura, Tochigi1.8 
 3. Hale, Mitsubis.1.8 
 4. Sato, Hitachi SR1.7 
 5. Hirose, Panasoni.1.7 
 6. Gibbs, Toyota A.1.7 
 7. Sakuragi, Aishin SH1.4 
 8. Igarashi, Mitsubis.1.3 
 9. Diouf, Hokkaido L.1.3 
 10. Lewis, Hokkaido L.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Anthony RICHARDSON
  Aishin S.
  (201-F-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Richardson, Aishin1.8 
 2. Takeuchi, Hitac.1.6 
 3. McFarlin, Tochigi1.1 
 4. Diouf, Hokkaido L.1.0 
 5. Ricci, Toyota Alva.1.0 
 6. Takeuchi, Toyota0.9 
 7. Moss, Toshiba BT0.8 
 8. Merritt, Toshi.0.8 
 9. Aono, Panasonic T.0.8 
 10. Hale, Mitsubis.0.7 


Toyota puts brakes on Aisin (Emperors Cup) - by Eurobasket
by John E. Gibson / Daily Yomiuri Sportswriter

It seems fitting a carmaker blocked the road to Aisin's drive for five on Monday at Toyko's Yoyogi Gym.
Taishi Ito stepped up for Toyota, draining a leaning jumper in traffic with 31.2 seconds to play and sealing the Toyota Alvark's 69-65 victory over the four-time defending champion Aishin Sea Horses for Toyota's second All-Japan title.
Ito took charge late, scoring nine of his 11 points in the final period.
'The reason I was aggressive at the end of the game was because I just wanted to win,' Ito said. 'I felt good in the semifinal and I was just confident.
'At the timeout [before his final shot], I felt like if I had an opening I was going to go for it. And I was fortunate it went down for me,' said the second-year guard.
The Japan Basketball League's front-running Alvark had a 16-point lead in the third quarter, but had to hold off a late charge from the second-place Sea Horses.
'I'm extremely satisfied with the team and extremely satisfied with the win,' said second-year Toyota coach Don Beck , who added Aisin's streak had nothing to do with his club's motivation.
'I didn't even know they had that streak, to be honest. I know that they won it last year when I was here, and I know they've been a very successful team.
'But we kind of focused on them--obviously stopping J.R. [Sakuragi], but really, we focused on us and what we needed to do. Today was a typical example of our team--we're a balanced team and on any day, it's going to be one of [our] 10. It's a real pleasure to coach them.'
Toyota, which won the title in 2007, had four double-digit scorers. Eight of the 10 players who got minutes grabbed at least one board as Toyota outrebounded Aisin 43-36.
Philip Ricci (202-F-80, college: Oregon St.), whose press-breaking dunk with 16.2 left in the game ended the scoring, had 13 points and eight rebounds, and Takeki Shonaka (180-G-84) chipped in with 10 points. Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85), in his first season with Toyota, had 10 points and seven boards against his old team.
Takeuchi--who has now played for five straight All-Japan winners--earned his fifth all-tournament selection, and Ito and Ricci each received the honor for the first time.
The Alvark survived a 17-point, 10-rebound effort from all-tourney selection Sakuragi, and 17 points from Shinsuke Kashiwagi (183-PG-81). Anthony Richardson (201-F-83, agency: TSS Management, college: Florida St.) had 13 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter.
Kashiwagi was also named to the all-tournament team, but the point guard had three turnovers and only one assist, and couldn't lead Aisin back from a big hole.
'I think if we were behind by single digits, we could have had a better chance,' said Aisin coach Kimikazu Suzuki . 'But if you're down by double digits to Toyota, it takes a lot of energy to get back in the game.
'Still, we did a good job of resting some guys and fighting back, but we didn't have enough in the tank to hit some shots down the stretch.'

Standings - JBL
JBL Standings
 1. Toyota Alvark 18-5 
 2. Aishin SH 17-5 
 3. Hitachi SR 12-10 
 4. Panasonic T. 12-11 
 5. Tochigi Brex 10-12 
 6. Mitsubishi DD 10-13 
 7. Hokkaido L. 9-13 
 8. Toshiba BT 2-21 


*****************************************************
  JUCO   


Former Spoonriver CC Star William Jones Cleveland Hotcards Debut!! - by Vance Marbury
The Cleveland Hotcards faced off against the Columbus Storm in the OVL Basketball League.

The Cleveland Hotcards was led by Stephon Brown who had 20 pts. 5 rebounds. Local Cleveland Product Dawan Cline chipped in with 19 pts 11 rebounds and 3 asists. Dawan is someone that all Junior Colleges around the country should be taking a look at. John Oliver contributed 15 pts. Another local Cleveland Product Remond Houston a good point guard with good vision chipped in with 9 pts and 8 assists. Remond is another Cleveland unknown product that Junior Colleges around the country should take a look at. Former Spoonriver CC star William Jones added 11 pts 10 rebounds 2 blocks and 5 assits.

The Columbus Storm was lead by Columbus, Ohio living legend Estaban Weaver who chipped in 37 pts 11 rebounds 6 assists,. Johnson and Clark both chipped in 16 pts and Livelove Mackie contributed 17 pts 8 rebounds 5 assists.

Columbus was definitely a more experienced group of players, but the Cleveland Hotcards team, showed that they have speed, conditioning and some young good talent!!




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


Standings -D1
D1 Standings
 1. BC Astana 10-0 
 2. Barsy Atyrau 9-3 
 3. BK Almaty 5-5 
 4. Kaspiy Aktau 5-5 
 5. Tobol 5-9 
 6. BK Atyrau 0-12 


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


Standings - LBAL
LBL2 Standings
 1. BK VEF 17-0 
 2. Liepaja-2 16-1 
 3. Barons/Keizar. 16-2 
 4. Saldus 14-3 
 5. Riga 12-6 
 6. RSU 10-8 
 7. VEF Kadeti 9-7 
 8. VA 9-8 
 9. DSN 8-10 
 10. Cesis 6-12 
 11. Jelgava/LLU 6-13 
 12. Livani 5-13 
 13. Ogres 4-13 
 14. Valmiera U21 4-14 
 15. Ridzene 3-15 
 16. Gulbene 3-17 


*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Standings
Liga Americas Standings
Group A
 1. Fuerza Regia 0-0 
 2. La Union 0-0 
 3. Pioneros 0-0 
 4. Vivo/Franca 0-0 
Group B
 1. Bucaneros 0-0 
 2. Regatas C. 0-0 
Group C
 1. Arecibo 0-0 
 2. Cia do Terno 0-0 
 3. Cocodrilos 0-0 
 4. Leones SD 0-0 
Group D
 1. Itabom/Bauru 0-0 
 2. Los Leones 0-0 
 3. Quimsa 0-0 
 4. Uniceub/BRB 0-0 


*****************************************************
  LIGA SUDAMERICANA   


Standings
Liga Sudamericana Stage Two Standings
Group A
 1. Malvin 0-0 
 2. Obras 0-0 
 3. Uniceub/BRB 0-0 
Group B
 1. Atenas 0-0 
 2. Flamengo 0-0 
 3. Pinheiros/Sky 0-0 
Stage One Standings


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
 1. Lietuvos rytas 12-2 
 2. Rudupis 10-2 
 3. Zalgiris 9-0 
 4. Siauliai 9-4 
 5. Baltai Kaunas 7-7 
 6. Neptunas 6-5 
 7. Pieno Zvaigzdes 6-6 
 8. Juventus 5-8 
 9. Kedainiai 4-9 
 10. Sakalai 3-10 
 11. Naglis Palangos 2-11 
 12. Techasas 2-11 


Standings - NKL
NKL Standings
 1. Radviliskis 18-9 
 2. LKKA-Atletas 17-10 
 3. Delikatesas 17-10 
 4. Nafta Universitetas 17-10 
 5. Mazeikiai 16-11 
 6. Matinga-Juod. 15-12 
 7. Statyba 15-12 
 8. Zalgiris-Sabonio 15-12 
 9. Ezerunas-Karys 14-13 
 10. Triobet 14-13 
 11. Perlas-MRU 13-14 
 12. Silute 11-16 
 13. S.Marciulionio 11-16 
 14. Meresta 10-17 
 15. ABRO-Univ. 7-20 
 16. Gargzdai 6-21 


Stats Leaders - LKL
Points Per Game
 Laurynas MIKALAUSKAS
  Neptu.
  (205-F-85)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Mikalauskas, Neptu.19.5 
 2. Butkevicius, Rudup.18.7 
 3. Urbonas, Juventus16.3 
 4. Valanciunas, Lietu.16.2 
 5. Mazeika, Neptunas15.2 
 6. Benn, Naglis Palan.14.5 
 7. Vasylius, Siauliai14.1 
 8. Cepukaitis, Techa.14.0 
 9. Hughes, Pieno Z.13.8 
 10. Baniulis, Sakalai13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Johnson, Naglis P.10.4 
 2. Mikalauskas, Neptu.10.0 
 3. Butkevicius, Rudup.9.1 
 4. McClure, Kedainiai7.8 
 5. Valanciunas, Lietu.7.6 
 6. Benn, Naglis Palan.7.5 
 7. Petrukonis, Juven.7.5 
 8. Cepukaitis, Techa.7.0 
 9. Adomaitis, Kedaini.6.8 
 10. Bowles, Siauliai6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Augustas PECIUKEVICIUS
  Sakal.
  (191-G-91)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Peciukeviciu., Sak.5.2 
 2. Dainys, Neptunas5.1 
 3. Kalnietis, Zalgiris5.1 
 4. Broadus, Siauliai4.9 
 5. Rice, Lietuvos.4.8 
 6. Maceina, Juventus4.0 
 7. Ezerskis, Techasas3.9 
 8. Salenga, Rudupis3.4 
 9. Kelys, Pieno Z.3.3 
 10. Kadziulis, Rudupis3.3 
Steals Per Game
 TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Hughes, Pieno Z.2.6 
 2. Lowe, Neptunas2.3 
 3. Broadus, Siauliai2.1 
 4. Collins, Zalgiris1.8 
 5. Dainys, Neptunas1.8 
 6. Benn, Naglis Palan.1.7 
 7. Seibutis, Lietuv.1.7 
 8. Ginevicius, Kedain.1.7 
 9. Weems, Zalgiris1.6 
 10. Kelys, Pieno Z.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Valanciunas, Lietu.1.9 
 2. Johnson, Naglis P.1.7 
 3. Staniulis, Techasas1.3 
 4. Morgan, Pieno Z.1.3 
 5. Petrukonis, Juven.1.2 
 6. Samardziski, Lietu.1.2 
 7. Kairys, Pieno Z.1.1 
 8. Butkevicius, Rudup.1.1 
 9. McClure, Kedainiai1.1 
 10. Barnes, Kedainiai1.0 


Stats Leaders - NKL
Points Per Game
 Sarunas VINGELIS
  LKKA-.
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Vingelis, LKKA-.22.2 
 2. Uzkuraitis, Delika.22.0 
 3. Rakauskas, Radvili.19.4 
 4. Maneikis, Meresta18.1 
 5. Jucikas, AB.17.8 
 6. Gudaitis, Gargzdai17.0 
 7. Birgelis, Matinga-.17.0 
 8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.16.9 
 9. Lengvinas, Nafta16.8 
 10. Vileita, Perla.16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Arturas GUDAITIS
  Gargzdai
  (208-C-93)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai10.8 
 2. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.8.7 
 3. Mineikis, Radvilis.8.4 
 4. Urbonas, LK.7.9 
 5. Ramanauskas, Radvi.7.5 
 6. Jucikas, AB.7.4 
 7. Vaitiekunas, Triob.7.4 
 8. Kumpys, Nafta U.7.4 
 9. Jogela, Zalgir.7.4 
 10. Pikalavicius, Del.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Matas SAPIEGA
  LK.
  (179-PG-90)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Sapiega, LK.9.7 
 2. Semaska, Perla.5.3 
 3. Razutis, Silute5.2 
 4. Pociukonis, S.Marc.5.0 
 5. Malasauskas, LKKA.5.0 
 6. Kulbis, Ezerunas.4.8 
 7. Kurauskas, AB.4.7 
 8. Stasys, Mazeikiai4.5 
 9. Kvedaraviciu., Del.4.5 
 10. Vileita, Perla.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Ignas RAZUTIS
  Silute
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Razutis, Silute2.5 
 2. Jogela, Zalgir.2.4 
 3. Slivka, Meresta2.4 
 4. Brown, Mazeikiai2.2 
 5. Paliukenas, S.Marc.2.0 
 6. Uzkuraitis, Delika.2.0 
 7. Vileita, Perla.1.9 
 8. Semaska, Perla.1.9 
 9. Vasiliauskas, Trio.1.8 
 10. Birgelis, Matinga.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Urbonas, LK.3.2 
 2. Gudaitis, Gargzdai1.7 
 3. Vaitiekunas, Triob.1.1 
 4. Krestinin, S.Marc.1.1 
 5. Kaubrys, Silute1.1 
 6. Pupinis, Matinga-.1.1 
 7. Kalvelis, Matinga-.1.1 
 8. Jucikas, AB.1.1 
 9. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.0 
 10. Kymantas, Zalgir.1.0 


NKL Round 27: Mazeikiai defeats Nafta Universitetas in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 27 in the NKL took place in Mazeikiai. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Nafta Universitetas (17-10) to seventh ranked Mazeikiai (16-11) 80-77 on Friday evening. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 27-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Nafta Universitetas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for center Remigijus Trakimas (205-87) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 6 rebounds. point guard Mindaugas Stasys (180-86) helped adding 11 points and 5 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Modestas Kumpys (191-91) with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Mazeikiai moved-up to fifth place. Nafta Universitetas at the other side keeps the second position with ten games lost. They share it with Delikatesas and LKKA-Atletas. Mazeikiai are looking forward to face Meresta (#14) in Pakruojis in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against Matinga-Juod. (#6) in Marijampole and is hoping to win this game.
NKL top team - Radviliskis (18-9) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifteenth ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-20) in Siauliai 92-63. It was a quality performance for guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Rytis Rauktys accounted for 20 points. Guard Aridas Kurauskas (184-92) came up with 11 points and 9 assists for ABRO-Universitetas in the defeat. Radviliskis have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 18-9 record. ABRO-Universitetas at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 20 games lost. Radviliskis will play against Ezerunas-Karys (#9) in Moletai in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ABRO-Universitetas will play on the road against Perlas-MRU (#11) in Vilnius and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game took place in Moletai where higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (15-12) was upset on the court of eleventh ranked Ezerunas-Karys (14-13) 84-79 on Friday. The best player for the winners was Andrius Slezas who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Zygimantas Skucas who recorded 20 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Triobet. Loser Zalgiris-Sabonio keeps the sixth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Matinga-Juod. and Statyba. Ezerunas-Karys will meet league's leader Radviliskis on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Gargzdai-Bremena (#16) and hope to secure a win.
An interesting game took place in Silute where higher ranked Triobet (14-13) was upset on the court of twelfth ranked Silute (11-16) 103-72. It was a good game for Evaldas Jurkus who led his team to a victory with 17 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. Silute maintains twelfth place with 11-16 record, which they share with S.Marciulionio. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 13 games lost. Silute's next round opponent will be S.Marciulionio (#13) in Vilnius.
An interesting game took place in Marijampole where higher ranked Matinga-Juod. (15-12) was upset on its own court by fourteenth ranked S.Marciulionio (11-16) 111-107 on Friday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Matinga-Juod.. It was a great evening for Nerijus Varnelis who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. Matinga-Juod.'s coach Mindaugas Sagaitis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. S.Marciulionio moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Silute. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. dropped to the sixth position with 12 games lost. S.Marciulionio will face Silute (#12) at home in the next round.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 27: LKKA-Atletas destroyed Gargzdai on the opponent's court 97-65. Statyba managed to outperform Meresta in a home game 77-62. Perlas-MRU recorded a loss to Delikatesas on the road 90-82.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 31 points and 8 assists by Aurimas Birgelis of Matinga-Juod..


Gargzdai - LKKA-Atletas 65-97

Very expected game when 16th ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (6-21) was crushed at home by fourth ranked LKKA-Atletas (17-10) 97-65 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by LKKA-Atletas. Gargzdai-Bremena was better in second period 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LKKA-Atletas made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 29 assists comparing to just 14 passes made by Gargzdai-Bremena's players. It was a great evening for center Tomas Urbonas (218-92) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) helped adding 18 points and 4 assists. Five LKKA-Atletas players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was swingman Tadas Mazelis (194-92) with 16 points and guard Mantas Martinkus (186-91) scored 9 points and 6 assists. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. LKKA-Atletas moved-up to second place, which they share with Delikatesas and Nafta Universitetas. Gargzdai-Bremena lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. LKKA-Atletas will face Statyba (#7) in Vilnius in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Gargzdai-Bremena will play on the road against Zalgiris-Sabonio (#8) in Kaunas.
Top scorers:
Gargzdai: T.Mazelis 16+4reb+2ast, M.Martinkus 9+1reb+6ast, R.Jonelis 8+6reb, L.Jonuska 8+7reb, L.Lucinskas 7+2reb+2ast, K.Timofejevas 7+1reb+1ast
LKKA-Atletas: T.Urbonas 21+8reb+2ast, S.Vingelis 18+4reb+4ast, T.Tamosiunas 15+9reb+1ast, V.Sragauskis 14+8reb, D.Gricius 14+3ast, M.Staniukaitis 5+2reb+3ast
gschID: 148474


Ezerunas-Karys - Zalgiris-Sabonio 84-79

An interesting game took place in Moletai where higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (15-12) was upset on the court of eleventh ranked Ezerunas-Karys (14-13) 84-79 on Friday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-13. But Zalgiris-Sabonio won third quarter 26-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ezerunas-Karys made 24-of-27 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was forward Andrius Slezas (200-75) who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Giedrius Kulbis (187-81) chipped in 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Zygimantas Skucas (201-92) who recorded 20 points and 5 rebounds and forward Vaidas Kariniauskas (198-93) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Triobet. Loser Zalgiris-Sabonio keeps the sixth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Matinga-Juod. and Statyba. Ezerunas-Karys will meet league's leader Radviliskis on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Gargzdai-Bremena (#16) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris-Sabonio: Z.Skucas 20+5reb+1ast, V.Kariniauskas 15+5reb+2ast, R.Jakstas 11+6reb, M.Grigonis 10+3reb+3ast, T.Dimsa 10+1reb, T.Jogela 6+3reb+1ast
Ezerunas-Karys: G.Kulbis 20+5reb+4ast, A.Slezas 20+7reb+3ast, T.Lukosevicius 12+2reb, M.Kugauda 12+3reb+2ast, R.Ambrulaitis 10+5reb+2ast, K.Alekna 4+2reb
gschID: 148475


Statyba - Meresta 77-62

Rather predictable result in Vilnius where ninth ranked Statyba (15-12) defeated 13th ranked Meresta (10-17) 77-62 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Statyba. Meresta was better in second period 11-9. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for center Vitalijus Luksa (206-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds. Swingman Tadas Rinkunas (195-91) helped adding 20 points. The best for the losing side was forward Audrius Maneikis (203-84, college: Motlow St. CC) with 15 points and 6 rebounds and forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) scored 14 points. Statyba moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Matinga-Juod. and Zalgiris-Sabonio. Meresta lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourteenth position with 17 games lost. Statyba will face league's second-placed LKKA-Atletas in Kaunas in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Meresta will play at home against Mazeikiai (#5).
Top scorers:
Meresta: A.Maneikis 15+6reb, D.Griskenas 14+4reb+1ast, K.Artamonov 11+3reb+1ast, S.Raziulis 6+2reb+3ast, B.Bagdonavicius 5+9reb+1ast, A.Galkauskas 4+1reb
Statyba: V.Luksa 20+12reb, T.Rinkunas 20+2ast, D.Tarvydas 13+4reb, L.Kazlauskas 7+2reb, R.Sugintas 5+2reb+2ast, O.Varanauskas 5+5reb+5ast
gschID: 148476


Silute - Triobet 103-72

An interesting game took place in Silute where higher ranked Triobet (14-13) was upset on the court of twelfth ranked Silute (11-16) 103-72. The game without a history. Silute led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 23 Triobet turnovers. Silute shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. 27 personal fouls committed by Triobet helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for guard Evaldas Jurkus (189-84) who led his team to a victory with 17 points. Guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) contributed with 14 points and 4 assists for the winners. Five Silute players scored in double figures. Center Paulius Vaitiekunas (208-87) answered with 14 points and forward Aurimas Urbonas (196-93) added 10 points in the effort for Triobet. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Silute maintains twelfth place with 11-16 record, which they share with S.Marciulionio. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 13 games lost. Silute's next round opponent will be S.Marciulionio (#13) in Vilnius.
Top scorers:
Triobet: P.Vaitiekunas 14+4reb, R.Juknevicius 13, A.Urbonas 10+2reb+2ast, R.Narkevicius 8, M.Linkevicius 7+3reb, A.Vasiliauskas 6+2reb+5ast
Silute: E.Jurkus 17+1reb+2ast, I.Razutis 14+1reb+4ast, A.Cizikas 12+2reb+5ast, V.Pancerevas 12+1reb+3ast, E.Ramanauskas 11+4reb, E.Saulys 10+1reb
gschID: 148471


Delikatesas - Perlas-MRU 90-82

Not a big story in a game in Joniskis where 10th ranked Perlas-MRU (13-14) was defeated by third ranked Delikatesas (17-10) 90-82 on Friday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 31-13. But Perlas-MRU won third quarter 34-22. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Delikatesas forced 19 Perlas-MRU turnovers. It was a great evening for guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 28 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Vidmantas Uzkuraitis (189-85) helped adding 23 points and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was guard Gintautas Vileita (193-75, college: Monmouth) with 22 points and forward Mantas Kazonas (201-89) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. Delikatesas moved-up to second place, which they share with Nafta Universitetas and LKKA-Atletas. Loser Perlas-MRU dropped to the eleventh position with 14 games lost. Delikatesas will face Triobet (#10) in Jonava in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Perlas-MRU will play at home against ABRO-Universitetas in Siauliai.
Top scorers:
Perlas-MRU: G.Vileita 22+4reb+3ast, M.Virbalas 16+3reb, T.Padegimas 12+1reb+1ast, K.Brusokas 10+6reb, M.Kazonas 8+8reb+3ast, P.Semaska 6+2reb+7ast
Delikatesas: A.Kvedaravicius 28+5reb+3ast, V.Uzkuraitis 23+3reb+4ast, P.Klemas 11+3reb+4ast, V.Jatulevicius 8+8reb+3ast, M.Keras 8+5reb+1ast, V.Volodko 6+10reb
gschID: 148472


ABRO-Univ. - Radviliskis 63-92

NKL top team - Radviliskis (18-9) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifteenth ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-20) in Siauliai 92-63. The game without a history. Radviliskis led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Radviliskis forced 20 ABRO-Universitetas turnovers and outrebounded them 39-28 including 28 on the defensive glass. They shot the lights out from three nailing 18 long-distance shots on high 51.4 percentage. It was a quality performance for guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Rytis Rauktys (187-84) accounted for 20 points for the winning side. Four Radviliskis players scored in double figures. Guard Aridas Kurauskas (184-92) came up with 11 points and 9 assists and center Agnius Gurklys (205-88) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for ABRO-Universitetas in the defeat. Radviliskis have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 18-9 record. ABRO-Universitetas at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 20 games lost. Radviliskis will play against Ezerunas-Karys (#9) in Moletai in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ABRO-Universitetas will play on the road against Perlas-MRU (#11) in Vilnius and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
ABRO-Univ.: A.Gurklys 16+5reb, A.Kurauskas 11+4reb+9ast, I.Ramasauskas 10+8reb, R.Giedraitis 9+4reb, N.Mika 7+2reb+2ast, D.Dauskurdis 5+1ast
Radviliskis: R.Rauktys 20+3reb+1ast, T.Rakauskas 16+5reb+3ast, L.Valantinas 13+1reb+1ast, E.Zukauskas 11+6reb+5ast, A.Mineikis 10+2reb, L.Pipiras 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 148473


Mazeikiai - Nafta Universitetas 80-77

The most exciting game of round 27 in the NKL took place in Mazeikiai. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Nafta Universitetas (17-10) to seventh ranked Mazeikiai (16-11) 80-77 on Friday evening. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 27-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Nafta Universitetas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for center Remigijus Trakimas (205-87) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 6 rebounds. point guard Mindaugas Stasys (180-86) helped adding 11 points and 5 rebounds. Four Mazeikiai players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was guard Modestas Kumpys (191-91) with 23 points and 6 rebounds and forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. Mazeikiai moved-up to fifth place. Nafta Universitetas at the other side keeps the second position with ten games lost. They share it with Delikatesas and LKKA-Atletas. Mazeikiai are looking forward to face Meresta (#14) in Pakruojis in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against Matinga-Juod. (#6) in Marijampole and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: M.Kumpys 23+6reb, J.Kazakauskas 20+7reb+2ast, E.Lengvinas 10+2reb+2ast, V.Chodosovskis 9+8reb, V.Tarolis 7+1reb, H.Venskus 4+2reb+3ast
Mazeikiai: R.Trakimas 18+6reb+2ast, D.Vaitelis 13+5reb+1ast, J.Jurgo 12+4reb+1ast, M.Stasys 11+5reb+3ast, M.Norkus 10+4reb, M.Simonavicius 8+2reb+1ast
gschID: 148469


Matinga-Juod. - S.Marciulionio 107-111

An interesting game took place in Marijampole where higher ranked Matinga-Juod. (15-12) was upset on its own court by fourteenth ranked S.Marciulionio (11-16) 111-107 on Friday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Matinga-Juod.. The guests trailed by 9 points after three quarters before their 38-25 charge, which allowed them to win the game. S.Marciulionio shot 62.1 percent from the field and made 33-of-41 free shots (80.5 percent) during the game. Matinga-Juod. was plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. Forward Vaidas Trepocka (200-80, agency: Court Side) helped adding 20 points. The best for the losing side was guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) with 31 points and 8 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) and forward Aurimas Majauskas (199-93) scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Matinga-Juod.'s coach Mindaugas Sagaitis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. S.Marciulionio moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Silute. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. dropped to the sixth position with 12 games lost. S.Marciulionio will face Silute (#12) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: A.Birgelis 31+3reb+8ast, A.Majauskas 17+7reb+1ast, A.Zibuda 13+2reb+2ast, M.Kalvelis 12+9reb+2ast, Z.Kuklierius 10+6ast, A.Krivonis 10+2reb+1ast
S.Marciulionio: N.Varnelis 33+6reb+2ast, V.Trepocka 20+1reb, J.Elvikis 15+1reb+5ast, M.Pociukonis 12+5reb+2ast, M.Paliukenas 12+5reb+4ast, E.Mockevicius 10+2reb
gschID: 148470




Rudupis add Andrius Mazutis - by Eurobasket News
Rudupis strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Andrius Mazutis (180-G-81). The guard spent the previous season in Ukraine. He played for MBC Mykolaiv. Andrius Mazutis tallied 4.1 points, 3.3 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.5 rebounds per game. Previously the guard had stints Ukraine, Turkey, Latvia, France, Lithuania and Azerbaijan. Eurobasket.com named Andrius Mazutis to Lithuanian LKL All-Newcomers Team in 2006. He also made it into Latvian League All-Defensive Team in 2009. Andrius Mazutis was the member of Lithuanian National Team the same year. He participated at 2009 Eurobasket averaging 2.0 points per game.

Egidijus Dimsa joins Kedainiai - by Eurobasket News
Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) returned to Lithuania. The centre signed a deal with Kedainiai. Egidijus Dimsa parted ways with Conad Bologna several days ago. The Lithuanian centre joined the Italian team at the start of the season. He averaged 7.1 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game for Bologna in LegaDue. Last season Egidijus Dimsa started with Nevezis. His stats read 16.0 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in LKL. In Baltic League the centre notched 15.0 points and 6.5 rebounds. Later Egidijus Dimsa moved to Panevezys Techasas. His stats read 17.5 points and 5.0 rebounds per appearance. Dimsa also had stints with Aisciai and Silute. Eurobasket.com named the centre into All-Lithuanian LKL 2nd Team in both 2010 and 2011. He was the member of Lithuanian University National Team.


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  MALI   


JSF Nanterre adds Diarra to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
JSF Nanterre agreed terms with 32-year old naturalized Mali forward Mamoutou Diarra (200-F-80). Diarra played most recently at Cholet Basket (ProA). While playing 28 games in French League for Cholet last season he recorded 3.4ppg and 1.4rpg. He helped them to win regular season and then make it to the league finals. He also played 10 games in Euroleague and his stats were 2.2ppg and 1.1rpg. He helped them to win regular season and make it to the final. Diarra played also pro basketball in Greece and Italy. He used to play also for French National team between 2004-2008.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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  MALTA   


BUPA Luxol beat Siggiewi by one - by Eurobasket News
BUPA Luxol claimed the second straight win at the start of Powerade League season. They overcame Siggiewi 77:76 in thriller. Jeron Belin (198-F-88, college: St.Peter's) drained a late three-pointer to bring victory to Luxol. He finished with game-high 40 points in the win. Siggiewi dominated in the first half. They recorded a 41:32 halftime lead. The margin grew at 13-point mark at the final intermission. But Luxol turned things around erupting for 30 points in the final period and clinching a tough win at the end. Lee Ross (182-G-89) finished with 20 points, while Jean Paul Bonnici (196-C-88) added 9 in the victory. Alan Borg (196-G/F-80) answered with 23 points for Siggiewi. Marko Matijevic (200-F-78) accounted for 14 points in defeat.
Athleta grabbed the second win taking care of Depiro 70:58 on the road. Michael Naudi (193-G/F-80) provided 20 points to lead the charge. Tornovic contributed 16 points for the defending champions. Greg Hamlin (201-F-86, college: E.Tenn.St.) answered with game-high 30 points for Depiro.
Floriana celebrated the first win in the season as they shot down visiting Loyola 90:69. Evan Fjeld (203-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Vermont) erupted for 44 points in the victory. Steve Sammut added 19 points for Floriana. Rashanti Harris (203-F) answered with 30 points for Loyola.

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  MOROCCO   


News - by Marek Krala
If the veil is already up on both teams qualified for the play-off in this case, ASS and the runner RSB, other parties must still work hard to tear their tickets for the G6.
Thus, this day will be enhanced by the Casablanca derby between the RCA and WAC. Two teams who are two different situations. The WAC is experiencing stability on all fronts. In contrast, Raja and despite the arrival of a new president, continues his downward spiral of defeats and occupies the place of red lantern.
Although basketball players of El Bouchab Guers do not go with the favors of the prognosis, they have the technical and physical bravely to defend their chances. For its part, the WAC has recovered almost all of his injured players, will be deployed fully make up for his fans at the match against MAS and remain in the wake of the G6 team. Nevertheless, the protagonists will certainly bestow upon us a spectacle worthy of the event.
In the gym Ibn Yassine, FUS Rabat will be measured by the RST. It just crowned his good performance against the Raja, will be challenged before the Fus players thirsty for victories. Indeed, the locals have more room for error to get away from the zone of turbulence on the one hand, and hope to win a place for play-off, on the other.
A Berkane, Renaissance will play the local SP. Abdelmajid Madran men, intractable at home, will have to be deployed fully to include in their list of conquests the SP.
The latter is capable of good and bad, is able to reverse the odds even out of its bases. In this regard, the Berkana must be vigilant to avoid any surprises.
The match will feature the MAS and the SSA will again attract a large audience at the hall on January 11. The other side of Messou in Al Hoceima the push to deploy fully to try to make change to their vis--vis, and to garner the two points of victory, to continue the rest of the competition with confidence . The task is certainly difficult but not impossible before the leader, namely the SSA.
Regarding the explanation of KAC Kenitra between CRA and the Gharbaoui are called more than ever to win two points in the victory for hope to remain in the big leagues.
The mission of KAC will be most difficult, because the team of CRA is in a dynamic upward, collecting good results since the arrival of veteran coach Ali Nat Ouali at the head of the technical staff of this team.
The program
Saturday at 3:00 p.m.
FUS-RST
RSB-SP
MAS-ASS
KAC-CRA
Raja-WAC

Standings - Men
D1 Standings
 1. ASS Sale 10-1 
 2. RSB Berkane 9-2 
 3. MAF Fez 7-4 
 4. WAC Casabl. 7-4 
 5. PCS Plazza C. 6-5 
 6. CRA Hoceima 5-5 
 7. FUS Rabat 3-7 
 8. IRT Tanger 3-8 
 9. KAC 2-9 
 10. RCA Casabl. 2-9 


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  NBA   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 30.4
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers30.4 
 2. James, Miami Heat29.9 
 3. Durant, Oklah.Ci.26.5 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.25.2 
 5. Anthony, New Y.25.0 
 6. Ellis, Golde S.23.2 
 7. Aldridge, Portland.22.5 
 8. Bargnani, Toron.22.3 
 9. Griffin, LA Clipp.21.3 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.20.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Howard, Orlando M.15.6 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.14.5 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers13.8 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.11.8 
 5. Varejao, Clevelan.11.4 
 6. Gasol, Memphis G.10.9 
 7. Lee, Golde S.10.4 
 8. Cousins, Sacramen.10.4 
 9. Humphries, New J.10.2 
 10. McGee, Washingt.10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.1 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.9.4 
 3. Calderon, Toron.8.7 
 4. Rose, Chicago B.8.7 
 5. Lowry, Houston R.8.6 
 6. Paul, LA Clippers8.4 
 7. Williams, New J.8.4 
 8. Rubio, Minnesot.8.3 
 9. Conley, Memphis G.7.8 
 10. James, Miami Heat7.6 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.8 
 2. Conley, Memphis G.2.7 
 3. Shumpert, New Y.2.5 
 4. Rubio, Minnesot.2.3 
 5. Lowry, Houston R.2.2 
 6. Teague, Atlanta H.2.1 
 7. Iguodala, Philadel.2.1 
 8. James, Miami Heat2.0 
 9. Wade, Miami Heat2.0 
 10. Kidd, Dallas M.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 DeAndre JORDAN
  LA Clippers
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Jordan, LA Clippers3.1 
 2. McGee, Washingt.3.0 
 3. Gasol, Memphis G.2.5 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.2.4 
 5. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.3 
 6. Bogut, Milwauke.2.0 
 7. Bynum, LA Lakers1.9 
 8. Smith, Atlanta H.1.8 
 9. Dalembert, Houst.1.7 
 10. Hawes, Philadelph.1.7 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Philadelph.76 10-4 
 2. New York K. 6-8 
 3. Boston C. 5-8 
 4. New Jersey N. 4-11 
 5. Toronto R. 4-11 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 13-3 
 2. Indiana P. 9-4 
 3. Cleveland C. 6-7 
 4. Milwaukee B. 4-9 
 5. Detroit P. 3-12 
Southeast Div.
 1. Atlanta H. 11-4 
 2. Miami Heat 10-4 
 3. Orlando M. 10-4 
 4. Charlotte B. 3-12 
 5. Washington W. 2-12 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 12-3 
 2. Denver N. 10-5 
 3. Utah Jazz 9-5 
 4. Portland TB 8-6 
 5. Minnesota T. 6-8 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 10-6 
 2. LA Clippers 8-4 
 3. Phoenix Suns 5-9 
 4. Golde State W. 5-9 
 5. Sacramento K. 5-10 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 10-5 
 2. Dallas M. 9-7 
 3. Houston R. 8-7 
 4. Memphis G. 7-6 
 5. N.Orleans H. 3-12 


Thursday's games (3) review: Even ailing, James leads Heat past Lakers 98-87 - by Eurobasket News
Utah Jazz - Dallas M. 91-94
Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) scored a season-high 22 points, including a late layup, as the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Utah Jazz 94-91 Thursday night to snap a two-game losing streak and cool off the league's hottest team. The Mavs (9-7) were coming off back-to-back last-possession losses to the Lakers and Clippers. The Jazz (9-5) lost at home for only the second time all season, and second time in 10 games overall. The Jazz were down by 13 in the second quarter and by 11 in the third before rallying. Utah led by three early in the fourth after a dunk by C.J. Miles (6'6''-G-87). The game was tied at 87 before Jason Terry hit a 3-pointer, and Marion a layup. Al Jefferson (6'10''-F/C-85) led Utah with 22 points. The physical game saw four technical fouls called and one player, Jazz forward Derrick Favors ejected after throwing the ball in the stands late in the third quarter. *Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Miami Heat - LA Lakers 98-87
About 90 minutes before Thursday's game, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he had a 'couple of different' starting lineups in mind. Spoelstra made the right choice when he decided to go with the one that included veteran Shane Battier (6'8''-F-78, college: Duke). Battier provided the defense and LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) the offense as the Heat continued its quick recovery from its three-game losing streak with a convincing 98-87 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in a playoff-type atmosphere at AmericanAirlines Arena. The Heat, who ended its recent road trip with three straight losses, have now won consecutive games against two of the best teams in the league, the San Antonio Spurs and the Lakers. And neither was close. With the 6-foot-8 Battier bothering Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78), the Heat raced to a 15-point halftime lead, equaling the Lakers' largest deficit all season. That lead swelled to 21 by the end of the third quarter before the Lakers cut into the lead in the final minutes. The game lost some of its star power with Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) (sprained ankle) inactive for the fifth time this season and second consecutive game. The Heat is 5-0 this season without Wade in the lineup. With dueling 'MVP' chants for James and Bryant - yes, enough Lakers fans were among the 20,004 in attendance to be heard - James clearly had the upper hand. James scored 31 points, while Bryant, who surpassed 40 points in four of his last five games, finished with 24 on 8-of-21 shooting. Bryant scored 11 points in the final three minutes. 'Kobe and I have had 10 years of battles,' Battier said. 'There is no one I respect more in this game than Kobe, for all that he is. You have to have a short memory because he's going to make tough shots on you. You have to move onto the next play and maintain your game plan.' Spoelstra called Battier 'one of the most disciplined intelligent players' he's been around. 'This game (is) a clear reason why we went after Shane and why we wanted him for four or five years,' Spoelstra said. 'He simply does not make mistakes.' Bryant missed his first six shots, all jumpers, before making a short baseline jumper for his lone basket of the first quarter. Battier, meanwhile, helped pick up some of the early scoring load with two three-pointers. He finished with 11. 'Kobe is a roamer,' Battier said. 'He doesn't really guard me when I play him.' The Heat got a boost from center Eddy Curry, who played for the first time since Dec. 17, 2009. Curry, who has dropped 60 to 70 pounds to around 320, finished with six points and three rebounds in six minutes. 'He's come along way,' Spoelstra said. 'We know his history and he's put a lot of work, the majority on his own. It's good to see him get that opportunity and take advantage of it.' The Heat was able to counter the Lakers' size advantage with their outside shooting. Miami sizzled from long distance for the second consecutive game, making half of its 18 three-point attempts. The Heat is 25-of-44 (56.8 percent) from beyond the arc the last two games compared to 16-of-168 (36.3 percent) in its first 12 games. 'It'll continue to be a weapon for us,' Spoelstra said. 'That's a manageable number. It wasn't a barrage. Some games we'll be able to get to the rim and attack and get all of the paint opportunities that we want but this team is big. They have trees under the rim and they make it tough on you. 'If they're offering up open threes we have the personnel that can make you pay for that.' Pau Gasol did his best to keep the Lakers in the game, finishing with 26 as the Lakers attempted to take advantage of their decided height advantage. The Heat countered by bringing in a player that has logged more minutes sitting on the end of an NBA bench in a suit than any other on the last three years. Spoelstra said this was Curry's 'second hurdle' - his first was making the team - and he was not sure Curry even would play. Curry entered late in the first quarter, soon after Josh McRoberts was hit with a technical for throwing a forearm shiver at James as James was driving to the basket. *Courtesy of www.palmbeachpost.com

Houston R. - N.Orleans H. 90-88 OT
The Houston Rockets seemed to be rolling in the first half against New Orleans, shooting well and building a double-digit lead. Luis Scola (6'9''-F/C-80) knew better. 'We weren't executing the right way,' the Rockets forward said. 'They came back, and that's what happens when you don't play good.' Houston survived one of the worst fourth quarters in team history to hold off the Hornets 90-88 in overtime on Thursday night. Kevin Martin (6'7''-G/F-83, college: W.Carolina) scored 27 of his 32 points in the first half, Samuel Dalembert grabbed a season-high 17 rebounds and the Rockets won their fifth straight game. Barely. 'It just looked like the life was out of us,' Martin said. 'But we found a way to pull out that one.' Courtney Lee scored a season-high 17 points and Kyle Lowry added 10 points and eight assists for the Rockets, who shot 3 for 21 from the field in the fourth quarter and mustered 7 points, matching a team record set three times previously. Martin hit 10-of-14 shots in the first half, then went 2 for 6 in the fourth as the Hornets rallied to tie it. 'I always tell them, 'Give the fight and do your best,'' New Orleans coach Monty Williams said. 'We did everything we could to win the game.' Jason Smith scored 17 points and Jarrett Jack and Marco Belinelli added 15 points apiece for the Hornets, who've lost 12 of 13. But the players on New Orleans' bench went nuts when Jack swished a baseline jumper with 3:47 left in overtime to give the Hornets their first lead, and Smith hit one from nearly the same spot to put the Hornets up 86-83. Jack scored again before Dalembert converted a three-point play. Scola sank two free throws to tie it with 1:10 remaining. Martin picked up a loose ball with under 30 seconds left and missed a layup on a fast break, but Dalembert grabbed the rebound and dunked with 11 seconds left. 'We put ourselves in that situation,' Dalembert said. 'We dug ourselves so deep that we had to dig ourselves out. And we did it.' Belinelli missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer, and Houston escaped to beat the Hornets for only the second time in the last eight meetings. 'I'm only taking positives from this game,' Smith said. 'We played hard and that's what we have to do every game to give ourselves a chance to win.' Houston shredded the Hornets' defense in the first half, going 8 for 14 from 3-point range and matching its first-half season high point total set in Monday's 114-106 win in Washington. With the Hornets focused on Martin in the third quarter, Dalembert scored six points inside to keep Houston in front. But like Scola, Houston coach Kevin McHale sensed that the Rockets were losing their offensive rhythm. 'We had no flow in that second half after having had a lot of flow early,' McHale said. 'On average, you can feel it coming on and it's a bad feeling.' The Rockets' bench was unable to stretch the lead early in the fourth, and Lowry says the New Orleans defense deserves credit for turning the tide. 'They junked it up a little bit on us,' Lowry said. 'Just being physical, just being everywhere, just showing hard on the defensive end and making sure we didn't get easy shots.' Martin returned and converted a three-point play with 7:02 left for a 78-69 Houston lead. The Hornets' defense fueled a 9-0 run capped by Smith's turnaround jumper to cut the deficit to 80-79 with just over two minutes remaining. Smith had a chance to win it in regulation, but his turnaround at the buzzer rimmed out. *Courtesy of www.chron.com



Dwight Howard disputes report that he's interested in Clippers - by Eurobasket News
Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) is denying a report from Sheridan Hoops that said he has added the Los Angeles Clippers to his list of teams with which hes willing to sign a long-term contract extension.

Asked about his future, Howard said, per the Orlando Sentinel, 'Right now, I'm with the Magic. That's the only thing that matters.'

He added, facetiously, 'Sources say Dwight Howard is signing with the Harlem Globetrotters.'

Additionally, Magic GM Otis Smith said Howard's representatives have given no indication that the star center has added any teams to his list of preferred destinations beyond the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers and New Jersey Nets.

Howards and Smiths assertions are confirmed by Real GM, which reports that Howards list has not changed.

Also, the Los Angeles Times reports that the Magic and Clippers have not had any discussions about a trade involving Howard. The Clippers would not be willing to give up Blake Griffin for Howard, and Orlando has no interest in Clippers center DeAndre Jordan, executives from both teams told The Times.

Chris Sheridan, however, is sticking to his story, writing that Howard may consider the Clippers if circumstances over the next several months make those first three destinations unattainable. The Lakers, reports Sheridan, are a distant third on Howards list behind the Nets and Mavs. Sheridan stresses that a sign-and-trade next summer is the only feasible way for the Clippers to land Howard.

Sheridan outlines a scenario by which Howard could end up with the Clippers: 1) Dallas fails to trade Shawn Marion for an expiring contract (s); 2) Deron Williams opts out with the Nets and signs with Dallas, which would not leave the Mavs with enough cap space to acquire Howard, too; 3) Howard decides against the Nets, who would no longer have Williams; 4) with the Mavs and Nets out of the picture the Lakers get outbid.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Danny Ainge would consider trading big three to help foster Celtics' transition to next era - by Eurobasket News
It's debatable whether or not the Celtics are contenders this season. But if the right move was to come around involving the Big Three, Danny Ainge would consider pulling the trigger.

The Celtics' vice president of basketball operations told The Boston Globe on Wednesday that he'd consider trading the team's aging veterans -- Paul Pierce (6'7''-F/G-77, college: Kansas), Kevin Garnett (6'11''-PF-76) and Ray Allen (6'5''-SG-75, college: Connecticut) -- if it would help foster a transition to the next era.

Ainge would make a deal if it involved bringing in younger talent, so that the Celtics don't have to go through a difficult 10-year span like they did upon the departures of the previous Big Three -- Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parish.

Ainge spoke with the Globe's Gary Washburn about a conversation he had with Red Auerbach during the 1990s.

'[Auerbach] had a chance to trade Larry [Bird] (to Indiana) for Chuck Person and Herb Williams and [Steve] Stipanovich, and he had a chance to trade Kevin [McHale] (to Dallas) for Detlef Schrempf and Sam Perkins,' Ainge said. 'I was like 'are you kidding?' I mean I feel that way now. If I were presented with those kind of deals for our aging veterans, it's a done deal to continue the success.'

Ainge said he believes the Celtics are a much better team than their current record indicates, and that they're just struggling to find some consistency at this point. Because of that, he said that he'll have to be patient and not overreact when determining whether the C's are contenders.

Courtesy of www.nesn.com

2012 NBA All-Star Game: No changes for likely 10 to be voted in by fans - by Eurobasket News
It appears that we already know who will start the 2012 NBA All-Star Game, as five players in each conference have taken commanding, seemingly insurmountable leads in fan voting.

In the East, Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) is the leading overall vote-getter as of Thursday, according to a release by the NBA. Howard has received 1.16 million votes to be the East's starting center. He leads No. 2 Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida) by more than 900,000 votes. Reigning MVP Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) has also eclipsed the 1 million vote barrier; Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) is not far behind with 970,000 votes. No. 3 Rajon Rondo is a distant 580,000 votes behind Wade.

The East's starting forwards will almost assuredly be LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) (970,000 votes) and Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) (780,000); third-place Amar'e Stoudemire sits at 281,000.

In the West, Kobe Bryant is the only player over the 1 million vote mark, sitting about 50,000 behind Howard for the leaguewide lead. Crosstown rival Chris Paul is No. 2 among West guards at 835,000, almost 600,000 votes ahead of top contender Ricky Rubio.

Andrew Bynum leads DeAndre Jordan more than half of a million votes to become the West's starting center, and Kevin Durant is approaching 1 million votes as the top West forward. In the closest race in the league, Blake Griffin leads Dirk Nowitzki by about 260,000 votes for the No. 2 West forward spot.

Voting continues on NBA.com through Jan. 31.

Courtesy of www.sbnation.com

Greg Ostertag calls it a career - by Eurobasket News