EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/26/2012

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Men News

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


Standings
ABA Standings
Atlantic South
 1. Athens R. 6-1
 2. Jacksonville 5-2
 3. Atlanta E. 4-1
 4. Heartland H. 3-0
 5. Atlanta Aliens 2-1
 6. Georgia G. 1-1
 7. Savannah Storm 0-0
 8. Tampa 0-0
 9. Columbus R. 0-2
 10. E.Point Jaguars 0-8
California NW
 1. Central Valley T. 4-1
 2. Modesto H. 3-2
 3. Chico Rage 0-1
California South
 1. Arizona S. 15-2
 2. San Diego Sol 11-2
 3. San Diego S. 4-5
 4. LA Slam 3-8
 5. Riverside R. 1-3
 6. Las Vegas A. 0-2
 7. SoCal Swish 0-4
 8. Shizuoka G. 0-8
Colonial
 1. Lynchburg L. 6-4
 2. Richmond E. 5-1
 3. NoVa Wonders 4-1
 4. Portsmouth C. 2-3
 5. Seven Cities 0-0
Great Lake
 1. Chicago Steam 8-0
 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. 0-3
Mid Atlantic
 1. Carolina C. 9-3
 2. Carolina Ch. 6-5
 3. S.Carol.W. 4-0
 4. East Carolina T. 4-4
 5. Nashville S. 3-0
 6. Tennessee MH 2-9
 7. Fayetteville F. 1-9
 8. Clarksville C. 0-2
 9. Carolina J. 0-5
Mid Central
 1. Lima Explosion 5-3
 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. 0-3
Northeast
 1. Connecticut T. 6-0
 2. Jersey Expr. 5-6
 3. Island Vipers 1-4
 4. New York Ch. 0-1
 5. NYC Thunder 0-3
Northern Division
 1. Oklahoma I. 0-0
Pacific North
 1. Bay Area M. 14-4
 2. S.Francisco R. 9-2
 3. Richmond R. 9-3
 4. E.Bay Pitbulls 5-6
 5. Port City P. 4-6
 6. Sacramento H. 2-14
Pacific Northwest
 1. Seattle M. 6-0
 2. Alaska Q. 4-3
 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. 16-0
 2. Colorado C. 4-9
 3. Crusaders 2-5
 4. Wyoming R. 0-4
South Central
 1. Bluff City R. 11-2
 2. Conway C. 11-4
 3. Little Rock L. 9-4
 4. N.E. Arkansas 4-8
 5. Missouri R. 2-3
 6. St.Louis P. 1-9
South West
 1. Texas Fuel 10-2
 2. North Dallas 8-1
 3. Oklahoma 4-7
 4. West Texas W. 3-5
 5. Houston R.S. 2-0
 6. N.Texas F. 1-6
 7. Dallas Impact 0-3
Touring Team
 1. W.Virginia B. 3-6
 2. ABA-Canada 0-0
 3. Rocky Mountain S. 0-1
 4. Team Haiti 0-1
 5. Appalachian R. 0-2
 6. Florida M. 0-2
 7. Chicago F. 0-4


*****************************************************
  ACPBL   


Baby Shaq ACPBL player of the week! - by Justin Moore
In a weather stricken weekend where only 3 games were played, Antoine Morgano of The Garden State Rebels and Hugh Jones (6'3''-F-80) of The Beltway Bombers will share Player of the Week honors. Hugh'Baby Shaq' Jones in a much anticipated game versus The Center Court All-Stars messed around and got a triple double. When the game was finished Jones had 24 points 13 rebounds and 10 assists to go along with a Beltway Bombers victory.

If you travelled a few hours north to Brooklyn you would have seen Antoine Morgano drop 34 points and 8 rebounds on the New York City 524. At times Morgano was just toying with 524. His consistent effort lead his team to victory. There was no answer or way to stop him.



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


Agent: Fabricio Oberto, Bulls not close to deal - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Bulls have been looking for a reserve big man ever since veteran center Kurt Thomas signed with the Portland Trail Blazers early in training camp. Many have believed that the team's search has intensified because of left ankle injuries both Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson suffered in Friday night's 114-75 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

While the free-agent market isn't quite filled with appealing options, Chicago has been linked to big men such as former Bull Chris Richards, Joel Pryzbilla and Rasheed Wallace. Pryzbilla and Wallace are currently out of the league but each player is reportedly planning to make a comeback. Although, Bulls general manager Gar Forman has repeatedly said management will be patient in its search for more size.

On Tuesday, La Manana de Cordoba, an Argentine website, reported that the Bulls offered a one-year contract to retired center Fabricio Oberto (6'10''-C-75). The 36-year-old averaged 3.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in his six-year NBA career, playing for the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards and, most recently, Portland Trail Blazers. He was the Spurs' starting center in their 2007 championship season.

According to the report, if the Bulls signed Oberto, the 6-foot-10 center would be Noah's primary backup. But coach Tom Thibodeau's bunch is very confident in the man who currently plays behind Noah, Omer Asik, who is averaging 4.1 points and six rebounds in 18 minutes per game this season, which is a main reason why the front office did not match the two-year deal that Thomas received from the Blazers.

'I have a very important proposal from Chicago Bulls. But now I am focused to working out and be ready for London [Olympics] 2012. So far, the NBA is a bit far,' Oberto said, according to the website.

However, Oberto's Chicago-based agent, Herb Rudoy, told me that the reports stating Oberto and the Bulls are close to a deal and that both parties are interested in each other do not carry much weight.

'[There is] no truth to this,' Rudoy wrote in an email exchange Tuesday afternoon, when asked about the rumors involving Oberto and the Bulls.

Given the fact that Oberto has winning experience at both the NBA and international level, he would be a sound acquisition by the Bulls. Still, nothing is imminent and the Bulls appear to be in solid shape in the frontcourt.

Noah had one of his best performances of the season in Monday night's 110-95 win over the New Jersey Nets, dropping a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Asik had 10 points and has scored in double figures in two of his last four contests. Even Brian Scalabrine has performed well while playing a combined 28 minutes the past two games in place of Gibson, who could return on Friday night against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Courtesy of www.chicagonow.com

All star game 2012 recap - by Facundo Iatzky
With a great game between import and domestic players a new edition of the all star game has finished. This year, domestic team was stronger and could defeat the imports team in a entertaining game.
Paolo Quinteros (186-G-79) won the MVP with a terrific performane beyond the arc.

Domestic team: Facundo Campazzo (180-G-91) 2, Paolo Quinteros 21, Marcos Mata 7, Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) 6, Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) 14 (st), Juan Espil 3, Matias Sandes 5, Diego Lo Grippo 11, Ruben Wolkowyski 10, Martin Leiva 8, Pepe Sanchez 0. coach: Sergio Hernandez

import team: Martn Osimani 10, Kyle Lamonte 7, Joshua Pittman (197-F-76, college: NC-Asheville) 18, William McFarlan (201-F-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas) 13, Robert Battle 9 (st), William Graves 2, Jamaal Levy 2, Larry O'Bannon 9, Jerome Meyinsse 8. coach: Julio Lamas

Dunk contest:
Winner: Will Graves (198-F/G-88, college: N.Carolina)
runner up: Federico Aguerre

3 point shoot contest:
winner: Leonardo Gutierrez
runner up: Selem Safar

Skill challenge:
winner: Facundo Campazzo
runner up: Felipe Pais

Star shoot contest:
Winner team: Esteban de la Fuente, Juan Cantero and Macarena Durso.

Eric Freeman is a newcomer at Tiro Federal - by Eurobasket Center
Tiro Federal (Regional League) strengthened their roster with addition of 33-year old American center Eric Freeman (205-C-105kg-79, college: Ky Wesleyan, agency: Gamble Sports Management). Freeman played most recently at Cacaoteros de Barlovento (Venezuela). He is a very experienced player. Freeman played also pro basketball in Brazil, France, Germany, Honduras, Hungary, Mexico, New Zealand, Uruguay and USA. He graduated from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 2004.

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  AUSTRALIA   


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Patrick MILLS
  Tigers
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 18.6
 1. Mills, Tigers18.6 
 2. Tragardh, Tigers18.3 
 3. Wilson, Taipans17.1 
 4. Khazzouh, Kings16.9 
 5. Lisch, Wildcats16.7 
 6. Johnson, 36ers16.4 
 7. Wilkinson, Breakers16.0 
 8. Crawford, Croco.15.6 
 9. Worthington, Blaze15.1 
 10. Deleon, Blaze14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Khazzouh, Kings11.0 
 2. Holmes, Crocodiles9.4 
 3. Grant, Kings8.5 
 4. Simpsons, 36ers8.2 
 5. Johnson, 36ers8.1 
 6. Crosswhite, Taipa.7.7 
 7. Worthington, Blaze7.0 
 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. Crosswell, 36ers4.7 
 4. Bruce, Kings4.4 
 5. Gibson, Blaze4.4 
 6. Gill, Crocodiles4.4 
 7. Martin, Hawks3.5 
 8. Martin, Wildcats3.5 
 9. Dillon, Tigers3.4 
 10. Lisch, Wildcats3.4 
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, Crocodiles1.5 
 5. Glover, Hawks1.2 
 6. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
 7. Lisch, Wildcats1.1 
 8. Crawford, Croco.1.1 
 9. Gibson, Blaze1.1 
 10. Gill, Crocodiles1.1 
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, 36ers1.3 
 6. Worthington, Blaze1.1 
 7. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.1 
 8. Knight, Wildcats0.9 
 9. Abercrombie, Break.0.9 
 10. Pledger, Breakers0.8 


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


*****************************************************
  AZERBAIJAN   


D1 Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Araz-NDT 6-0
 2. Gala BC 5-1
 3. Aztop 3-3
 4. Chag Oiretim 3-3
 5. NLT-Tudor 1-5
 6. BGU 0-6


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


Standings
Premier League Standings
 1. Muharraq 11-0 
 2. Al Ahli 10-2 
 3. Al Manama 8-4 
 4. Al Hala 8-4 
 5. Nuwaidrat 6-5 
 6. Al Ittihad 6-5 
 7. Issa Town 6-6 
 8. Sitra 6-6 
 9. Bahrain Club 2-10 
 10. Samaheej 1-10 
 11. Al Najma 0-12 


*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Standings
Balkan League Standings
Group A
 1. Galil Gilboa 6-1 
 2. Rilski Sportist 4-3 
 3. Mornar Bar 4-3 
 4. Timisoara 3-4 
 5. OKK Beograd 2-5 
 6. Torus Skopje 2-5 
Group B
 1. Levski Sofia 6-0 
 2. Hapoel T-A 5-1 
 3. Feni Indistrija 4-3 
 4. Napredak 3-4 
 5. Ulcinj 1-6 
 6. Zrinjski HT 1-6 


Round 7: Rilski Sportist is upset by Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and even winless team recording their first victory.

The game between second ranked Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (4-3) and fourth ranked Romanian Timisoara (3-4) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Rilski Sportist was defeated by Timisoara in Timisoara 80-69. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 45-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic (197-G-78, agency: 011 Sports) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Croatian power forward Sime Spralja (206-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) produced 16 points for lost side. Timisoara maintains fourth place in Group A with 3-4 record. Rilski Sportist at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Mornar Bar. Timisoara are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Torus Skopje (#6) on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against Mornar Bar (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked FYR Macedonian Feni Indistrija (4-3) against fourth ranked Serbian Napredak Rubin (3-4) on Wednesday night. Visiting Feni Indistrija was defeated by Napredak Rubin in a tough game in Krusevac 77-81. Worth to mention a great performance of Slaven Cupkovic (205-88) who helped to win the game recording 21 points. Marko Puzic contributed with 8 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) answered with 24 points for Feni Indistrija. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Napredak Rubin maintains fourth place in Group B with 3-4 record. Defending FYR Macedonian champion Feni Indistrija keeps the third position with three games lost. Napredak Rubin will play against bottom-ranked Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round. Feni Indistrija will play on the road against the league's second-placed Hapoel Tel-Aviv and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game was played in Galil. First ranked Israeli Galil Gilboa faced their biggest opponent Montenegrin Mornar Bar. Host Galil Gilboa (6-1) smashed guests from Bar (4-3) 92-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mornar Bar. It was a great evening for Romeo Travis who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). At the losing side Akeem Scott responded with 22 points. Galil Gilboa maintains first place in Group A with 6-1 record. Loser Mornar Bar keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa will meet OKK Beograd (#5) on the road in the next round. Mornar Bar will play against the league's second-placed Rilski Sportist in Samokov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bosnian Zrinjski HT can celebrate finally their first win this season after six consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as it came on the road game in Ulcijn, where they defeated Montenegrin Ulcinj (1-6) 82-69. It was an exceptional evening for Marcel Jones who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds. Ulcinj's coach Nikola Milatovic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. It was the only win of guest team this round and in all other games host teams recorded victories. Zrinjski HT left bottom position moving up to fifth place in Group B, which they share with defeated Ulcinj. It was Ulcinj's fifth loss in a row. Zrinjski HT's next round opponent will be higher ranked Napredak Rubin (#4) in Krusevac and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ulcinj will play on the road against the league's leader Levski Sofia.
The game in Skopje was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Serbian OKK Beograd (2-5) played at the court of sixth ranked FYR Macedonian Torus Skopje (2-5). Torus Skopje managed to secure a 5-point victory 75-70 on Tuesday. Justin Reynolds fired 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Torus Skopje moved-up to fifth place in Group A, which they share with defeated OKK Beograd. Torus Skopje will face higher ranked Timisoara (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.


Group A
Timisoara - Rilski Sportist 80-69

The game between second ranked Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (4-3) and fourth ranked Romanian Timisoara (3-4) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Rilski Sportist was defeated by Timisoara in Timisoara 80-69. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 45-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic (197-78, agency: 011 Sports) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Croatian power forward Sime Spralja (206-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds. Four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) produced 16 points and Martin Marinov (190-85) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Timisoara maintains fourth place in Group A with 3-4 record. Rilski Sportist at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Mornar Bar. Timisoara are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Torus Skopje (#6) on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against Mornar Bar (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Timisoara: S.Spralja 22+9reb, B.Cuic 21+10reb+6ast, D.Archie 15+7reb+2ast, I.Siriscevic 11+3reb, B.Popescu 7+3reb, Z.Jovanovic 4+4ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 16+3reb+3ast, M.Marinov 13+5reb+3ast, F.Vukosavljevic 10+7reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 8+3reb+2ast, H.Zahariev 7+6reb+1ast, B.Boev 7+1reb+2ast
gschID: 152248


Torus Skopje - OKK Beograd 75-70

The game in Skopje was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Serbian OKK Beograd (2-5) played at the court of sixth ranked FYR Macedonian Torus Skopje (2-5). Torus Skopje managed to secure a 5-point victory 75-70 on Tuesday. OKK Beograd trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 21-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 70-75 at the end of the game. American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) fired 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. FYR Macedonian-Bulgarian guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) chipped in 16 points and 6 assists. Center Nenad Misanovic (217-84) produced 18 points and swingman Dragan Mitrovic (200-85) added 6 points and 11 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Torus Skopje moved-up to fifth place in Group A, which they share with defeated OKK Beograd. Torus Skopje will face higher ranked Timisoara (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.
Top scorers:
Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 16+3reb+6ast, J.Reynolds 15+8reb+2ast, P.Blazevski 14+2reb, G.Markovski 6+3reb+1ast, J.Boswell 5+2reb, B.Trajkovski 5+4reb
OKK Beograd: F.Sepa 19, N.Misanovic 18+4reb, S.Knezevic 13+5reb+1ast, V.Malidzan 8+2reb+4ast, D.Mitrovic 6+11reb+3ast, N.Bezbradica 4+4reb
gschID: 152249


Galil Gilboa - Mornar Bar 92-67

An exciting game was played in Galil. First ranked Israeli Galil Gilboa faced their biggest opponent Montenegrin Mornar Bar. Host Galil Gilboa (6-1) smashed guests from Bar (4-3) 92-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mornar Bar. The game without a history. Galil Gilboa 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 Mornar Bar's 28. They outrebounded Mornar Bar 35-23 including a 31-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Galil Gilboa looked well-organized offensively handing out 29 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Mornar Bar's players. It was a great evening for American Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). His fellow American import power forward Joseph Jones (204-86, college: Texas A&M) helped adding 19 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Four Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. At the losing side Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point, agency: Interperformances) responded with 22 points and Serbian forward Lazar Radosavljevic (204-91, agency: Beo Basket) scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Galil Gilboa maintains first place in Group A with 6-1 record. Loser Mornar Bar keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa will meet OKK Beograd (#5) on the road in the next round. Mornar Bar will play against the league's second-placed Rilski Sportist in Samokov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: R.Travis 22+10reb+2ast, J.Jones 19+5reb+3ast, J.Martin 12+2reb+1ast, C.Fells 12+2reb+3ast, D.Yavzuri 10+4reb+5ast, N.Tishman 9+5reb+7ast
Mornar Bar: A.Scott 22+2reb+1ast, L.Radosavljevic 15+5reb+3ast, I.Jelenic 10+4reb+4ast, F.Barovic 7+6reb, S.Milosevic 7+4reb, M.Sarajlija 6+1ast
gschID: 167925


Group B
Napredak - Feni Indistrija 81-77

Very important is a road loss of third ranked FYR Macedonian Feni Indistrija (4-3) against fourth ranked Serbian Napredak Rubin (3-4) on Wednesday night. Visiting Feni Indistrija was defeated by Napredak Rubin in a tough game in Krusevac 77-81. Feni Indistrija was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 20-14 charge of Napredak Rubin, which allowed them to win the game. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 60.0 percentage. Feni Indistrija was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of Slaven Cupkovic (205-88) who helped to win the game recording 21 points. Marko Puzic (198-85) contributed with 8 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) answered with 24 points and guard Goran Samardziev (187-81) added 8 points and 4 assists in the effort for Feni Indistrija. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Napredak Rubin maintains fourth place in Group B with 3-4 record. Defending FYR Macedonian champion Feni Indistrija keeps the third position with three games lost. Napredak Rubin will play against bottom-ranked Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round. Feni Indistrija will play on the road against the league's second-placed Hapoel Tel-Aviv and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Napredak: S.Cupkovic 21+4reb+1ast, M.Radonjic 12+3reb, V.Radmanovac 11, M.Puzic 8+6reb+3ast, S.Pejovic 8+3ast, S.Mihajlovic 7+1reb+1ast
Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 24+2reb+2ast, G.Samardziev 8+3reb+4ast, K.Nikolovski 8+6reb+1ast, J.Frye 8+4reb+1ast, V.Brckov 8+2reb+1ast, D.Sokolov 7+3reb+2ast
gschID: 167926


Ulcinj - Zrinjski HT 69-82

Bosnian Zrinjski HT can celebrate finally their first win this season after six consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as it came on the road game in Ulcijn, where they defeated Montenegrin Ulcinj (1-6) 82-69. The game was mostly controlled by Zrinjski HT. Ulcinj was better in second period 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for American forward Marcel Jones (203-85, college: Oregon St., agency: David Lee services) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds. Canadian guard Diego Kapelan (190-87, college: McNeese St.) accounted for 22 points for the winning side. Bosnian power forward Radoje Djurkovic (198-87) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds and Serbian forward Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-84) added 8 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Ulcinj in the defeat. Ulcinj's coach Nikola Milatovic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. It was the only win of guest team this round and in all other games host teams recorded victories. Zrinjski HT left bottom position moving up to fifth place in Group B, which they share with defeated Ulcinj. It was Ulcinj's fifth loss in a row. Zrinjski HT's next round opponent will be higher ranked Napredak Rubin (#4) in Krusevac and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ulcinj will play on the road against the league's leader Levski Sofia.
Top scorers:
Zrinjski HT: D.Kapelan 22+4reb+1ast, M.Jones 21+17reb+3ast, L.Klarica 20+4ast, B.Masic 8+6reb, I.Petric 6+11reb+4ast, O.Tomic 5+1reb
Ulcinj: R.Djurkovic 19+6reb+2ast, A.Djeljosevic 14+3reb+1ast, B.Medenica 10+5reb+1ast, S.Tepavcevic 8+10reb+3ast, M.Djurisic 6+6reb+2ast, S.Klikovac 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 167927


Hapoel TA - Levski, January 31

KK Torus beats OKK Beograd - by Zoran Popovic
In 7th round of Balkan league OKK Beograd lost against KK Torus 75:70 (21:17, 22:14, 17:18, 15:21). During the first two quarters hosts made advantage of 12 points and saved that result after the break during the third period. In the last quarter coach Djurovic players tried to made break and get very close, but that was not enough and at the end domestic team made second win this season in BIBL league. The most efficient players in OKK Beograd were Filip epa with 19 points, Nenad Mianovic with 18 and Stanoje Kneevic adds 13 points. For the winners Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 16 points and justin Raynolds adds 15 points.

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


Minsk signed two players - by Timur Tolokh
Justinas Sinica (203-F-85)


Uniform #: 22
Height: 203cm / 6'8''
Position: Forward
Born: 1985
Weight: 82kg / 180.4lbs
Team: Rudupis (Lithuania) (2010-11)
Nationality: Lithuanian
Agency: East Players Previous teams:
Lietuvos rytas (Lithuania)
Sakalai (Lithuania)
Lietkabelis (Lithuania)
Current Stats
Justinas Sinica Basketball Career
Born: May 31, 1985 in Zarasai
First name: Justinas
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Career:
2003-2004: Panevezys Aukstaitija (LKL): 12 games: 1.8ppg, 1.3rpg
2004-2005: Sakalai Vilnius (LKL): Baltic League (D1): 18 games: 3.5ppg, 1.1rpg; LKL: 32 games: 2.5ppg
2005-2006: Sakalai Vilnius (LKL): Baltic League: 32 games: 7.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 52%
2006-2007: Sakalai Vilnius (LKL, starting five): Baltic League: 24 games: 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 0.9spg, 2FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 62.5%; Lithuanian League: 15 games: 7.3ppg, 1.3rpg, FGP: 45.5%, FT: 80.6%, 3Pts: 32.6%
2007-2008: Sakalai Vilnius (LKL, starting five): Baltic League: 20 games: 16.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 80.0%; Lithuanian League: 19 games: 17.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.7%, FT: 84.8%, 3PT: 48.0%
2008-2009: Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (LKL): Eurocup: 7 games: 1.6ppg; Lithuanian League: 26 games: 7.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 83.3%; Baltic League (Elite Group): 15 games: 4.5ppg, 1.1rpg
2009-2010: Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (LKL, starting five) BAT 0127/10: Euroleague: 7 games: 1.6ppg; Baltic League: 15 games: 6.7ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 88.9%; Lithuanian League: 25 games: 4.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.2apg
2010-2011: in Nov.'10 signed at Rudupis Prienu (LKL, starting five): Baltic League: 15 games: 10.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 80.8%; Lithuanian League: 23 games: 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 43.1%, FT: 86.5%
2011-2012: Rudupis Prienu (LKL), left in Dec.'11

and Bobby Maze (188-G-86, college: Tennessee) basketball profile


Height: 188cm / 6'2''
Position: Guard
Born: 1986
Team: Bucaneros (Venezuela) (2012-12)
Nationality: USA
Agency: Worldwide SM College: Tennessee
Previous teams:
Puntukas (Lithuania)
Oklahoma (USA-B12)
Current Stats
Bobby Maze Basketball Career

Bobby Maze
Born: July 23, 1986, in Washington, D.C.
Full name: Bobby Cornell Maze
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Career:
Suitland, MD (The Patterson School (N.C.))
2006-2007: Oklahoma (NCAA): 22 games: 5.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 45.3%, 3Pts: 22.2%, FT: 69.6%
2008-2009: Tennessee (NCAA, starting five): 34 games: 8.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3Pts: 31.9%, FT: 69.4%
2009-2010: Tennessee (NCAA, starting five): 37 games: 9.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 25.2%, FT: 83.0%
2010: Drafted by Iowa Energy (D-League,7rd (6))
2010-2011: In Mar.'11 signed at Puntukas Jarimpeksas Anyksciai (Lithuania-NKL, starting five): 3 games: 10.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.7spg
2011 October: Denver Defenders (exhibition team) played against Aba team
2012: Bucaneros de La Guaira (Venezuela-LPB): 1 game: 9pts, 1ass

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


EuroChallenge: Antwerp Giants keep Triumph winless - by Eurobasket News
Antwerp Giants-Triumph Lyubertsy 83:58

Antwerp Giants keep Triumph winless in EuroChallenge Group L. The Belgian team overcame the Russian representative 83:58. Antwerp Giants started better and never looked behind in the game. They had 25:14 and then Ralph Biggs (199-F-76, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) increased to 30:16. He made it also 42:24, while Moors scored for 52:30. Triumph had nothing left in them because the Giants tightened the screw over the last 10 minutes, extending their advantage to 30 before walking off the court with a 25-point win. Donkor was the last to score for the hosts, while Kurtsevich closed the score in the game.
Michael Roll (196-G-87, college: UCLA) and Ralph Biggs top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) nailed 10 and Timothy Black (178-G-81, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Barton, NC) finished the night with 9 points. Artem Kuzyakin (200-G-80) notched 21 in defeat, while Davon Jefferson (204-F-86, college: USC) scored 15.

Antwerp Giants: Michael Roll 13, Ralph Biggs 13, Maarten Rademakers 10, Timothy Black 9
Triumph Lyubertsy: Artem Kuzyakin 21, Davon Jefferson 15

Round 17 of D2 - by Eurobasket News
Round 17 of the Belgian second division for men was played last weekend. Gembo stays the top ranked team in the league with 14-3 record. They handed 82-65 loss to Melsele in this round. At the same time visitors dropped to 3-14. The second ranked Waregem also celebrated last weekend. They blasted Spirmont 90-66 for 13-3 record in the league. Fleurus was better than Liege II on the road 80-84 and now has 13-4 score. In the other games St-Niklase was too strong for De Westhoek 82-69, while Sint-Jan handed 65-57 loss to Kangar.Boom. Mons Hainaut II and Excelsior also celebrated on the road against their rivals. Round 18 is scheduled for the next weekend.

Regular Season - Round 17
St-Niklase-De Westhoek 82-69
Sint-Jan Ant.-Kangar.-Boom 65-57
Waregem-Sprimont 90-66
Gembo-Melsele 82-65
Gistel-M.Hainaut II 62-73
Liege II-Fleurus 80-84
Essor Charleroi-Excelsior 67-69

D2 Standings
1. Gembo 14-3
2. Waregem 13-3
3. Fleurus 13-4
4. Excelsior 11-6
5. Kangar.-Boom 10-6
6. St-Niklase 10-7
7. Essor Charleroi 8-8
8. Liege II 8-8
9. Sprimont 8-9
10. Sint-Jan Ant. 8-9
11. M.Hainaut II 6-9
12. Melsele 3-14
13. De Westhoek 2-15
14. Gistel 2-15

Standings - Division II
D2 Standings
 1. Gembo 14-3
 2. Waregem 13-3
 3. Fleurus 13-4
 4. Excelsior 11-6
 5. Kangar.-Boom 10-6
 6. St-Niklase 10-7
 7. Essor Charleroi 8-8
 8. Liege II 8-8
 9. Sprimont 8-9
 10. Sint-Jan Ant. 8-9
 11. M.Hainaut II 6-9
 12. Melsele 3-14
 13. De Westhoek 2-15
 14. Gistel 2-15


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


D1: Round 17 review - by Eurobasket News
Round 17 of the Bosnian D1 was played last weekend. The top ranked Igokea celebrated 86-63 home win against Zrinjski for 15-1 record in the league. Nebojsa Joksimovic (191-SF-81) was a key player for the hosts with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The second ranked Bosna ASA BHT also registered home victory in this round. They outplayed Vogosca 109-76 for 12-2 score. Ramo Rizvic (200-F-87) shined for the hosts with 19 points and 7 boards. Capljina, who is currently at position No.3 in the league with 12-4 score, grabbed 93-91 home win against Mladost. Marko Jagodic Kuridza (204-C-87, agency: Sport Connect) exploded with double-double of 34 points and 11 rebs for the hosts. In the other games, Leotar outplayed Brotnjo on the road 67-75, while Celik celebrated 73-63 win against Borac. In the last game of the round, Servitium handed 76-70 loss to Varda. Round 18 is scheduled for the next weekend.

Regular Season - Round 17
Jan. 20, 2012 17:00 Bosna-Vogosca 109-76
Jan. 21, 2012 Brotnjo-Leotar 67-75
Jan. 22, 2012 Igokea-Zrinjski HT 86-63
Jan. 21, 2012 Celik-Borac Nektar 73-63
Jan. 21, 2012 Servitium-Varda HE 76-70
Jan. 21, 2012 17:00 Capljina-Mladost 93-91

D1 Standings
1. Igokea 15-1
2. Bosna 12-2
3. Capljina 12-4
4. Leotar 10-6
5. Varda HE 9-6
6. Mladost 8-8
7. Servitium 7-9
8. Hercegovac 6-8
9. Borac Nektar 5-10
10. Celik 5-11
11. Zrinjski HT 5-11
12. Brotnjo 4-12
13. Vogosca 3-13

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


Flamengo close to announced Christopher Hayes - by Paulo Freire
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo basketball team is really closed to official announced the hiring of american forward Christopher Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy). The athletic player is already enroll at the NBB by the Red-Black Club.
Hayes played very well against Clube de Regatas do Flamengo when he was defending the Atenas of Cordoba from Argentina in the South American competition.
He will be replacing one of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo's favorite dunks Guilherme Teichmann (204-F/C-83, college: Tulsa) who had to sit out to treat an medical issue, as he just had a testicular tumor removed.
With the arrival of Hayes, who was in Argentina, Clube de Regatas do Flamengo has reached the limit of three foreigners allowed in NBB. He joins american David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) and the Argentine Guillermo Kammerichs (203-F/C-80).

Palmeiras sign center Marcao for 2012 season - by Paulo Freire
The Palmeiras basketball team already put their group of athletes to train hard in two periods at day for their first appointment of the 2012 season: the Brazil Cup, organised by the CBB, Brazilian Confederation of Basketball.

A new face is on the roster, the big man Marcao Vinicius (205-C-84) is already training with the Palmeiras shirt.

'Marcao meets a need we had in the squad, because of his game inside the basket ' spoke head coach Padola.

For the newly hired Marcao, be back to the club where he started his career has a special feeling. 'It was great to be back to the club where I started my career. We have a good group and focused on the goals to be achieved. I have already played with many athletes who are here and the adaptation ends up being faster, 'says the center.

The new athlete believes that The Brazil Cup requires attention. 'Is a short shot competition. We have to be careful from the beginning to make a good Championship ', finalized Marcao.

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


Beroe stays perfect in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Round 10 of the Bulgarian Division A for men was played last weekend. There was no surprise as Beroe managed to register its tenth straight victory. This time Beroe was too strong for Chavdar 94-63. Atanas Radev (200-F-81) led the hosts with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Martin Radnev (190-G-89) had 15 points and Milen Dimitrov (204-F/C-88) (5 rebs) followed him with one point less. Chavdar dropped to 2-8 after this meeting. In the other games, Academik PL was better than Overgas 107-81, while Academik BL cruised past Cherno More U20 on the road 67-88. Academik PL and Academik BL share the second place now with 7-3 record. Also in this round, Vidabasket grabbed 69-68 thriller win against Shumen, while Balkan II outplayed Dunav 86-68. Round 11 is scheduled for the next weekend.

Regular Season - Round 10
Beroe-Chavdar 94-63
Cherno More U20-Academik BL 67-88
Academik PL-Overgas 107-81
Vidabasket-Shumen 69-68
Balkan 2-Dunav 2007 86-68

Division A Standings
1. Beroe 10-0
2. Academik PL 7-3
3. Academik BL 7-3
4. Vidabasket 6-4
5. Overgas 5-5
6. Cherno More U18 5-5
7. Dunav 2007 4-6
8. Balkan 2 2-8
9. Chavdar 2-8
10. Shumen 2-8

Timisoara better than Rilski in BIBL, 80-69 - by Eurobasket News
Timisoara - Rilski Sportist 80-69

Timisoara celebrated 80-69 home win against Rilski Sportist in Round 7 of the Balkan League. The game was played last night in Timisoara. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 45-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Guard Branko Cuic (197-G-78, agency: 011 Sports) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Croatian big guy Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds. Four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) produced 16 points and Martin Marinov (190-SG-85) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Timisoara maintains fourth place in Group A with 3-4 record. Rilski Sportist at the other side dropped to the third position with three games lost. Timisoara is looking forward to face Torus Skopje on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against the second-placed Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Timisoara: S.Spralja 22+9reb, B.Cuic 21+10reb+6ast, D.Archie 15+7reb+2ast, I.Siriscevic 11+3reb, B.Popescu 7+3reb, Z.Jovanovic 4+4ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 16+3reb+3ast, M.Marinov 13+5reb+3ast, F.Vukosavljevic 10+7reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 8+3reb+2ast, H.Zahariev 7+6reb+1ast, B.Boev 7+1reb+2ast

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


Lightning coach suspended for Rainmen incident - by Eurobasket News
London Lightning coach Michael Ray Richardson has been suspended for one game for comments directed at Halifax Rainmen bench boss Josep Claros during a contest last week in London.

John Kennedy, commissioner of the National Basketball League of Canada, was tight-lipped Tuesday about the suspension, saying only that it involved a verbal incident that happened during the first half of the Jan. 19 game and was 'behaviour that was detrimental to the league.'

Bailey Williams, the NBLs public relations director, confirmed later in an email message that Richardsons comments had been aimed at Claros, the first-year Rainmen coach from Spain.

'The National Basketball League of Canada looks to establish and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and good sportsmanship both on and off the court,' Kennedy said in a release.

'Whenever theres an issue in this regard, we review and verify the incident, then move forward appropriately addressing the situation both internally and with our member teams, which weve done here.'

He said in an interview that he based his decision on input from the officials who worked the game, which London won 111-94 in front of 3,224 fans at the John Labatt Centre.

Richardson said Tuesday that he was surprised by the disciplinary action and the team intends to file an appeal.

'You know how coaches go back and forth,' he told London Free Press reporter Steve Green. 'Its just a big misunderstanding.'

If the suspension is upheld, hell serve it on Feb. 5 when London hosts the Oshawa Power. The Lightning are in Halifax on Friday night to play the Rainmen.

Halifax owner Andre Levingston declined to comment about the incident and Claros could not be reached.

In its coverage of last weeks tilt, the London Free Press reported that 'Richardson was trying to get under everyones skin,' including Claross.

'Part of the game is getting into their minds,' Richardson said after the game. 'When you got their minds, you got their game.'

Courtesy of http://thechronicleherald.ca

Power signs Rick Bodiford and releases Andrew Francis - by Eurobasket News
The Oshawa Power have acquired guard-forward Rick Bodiford (6'4''-G-87, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Indiana SE) and released Andrew Francis (6'8''-F-85, college: UTSA).

Bodiford is a 6'5' 200 lb wing and hails from Louisville, Kentucky. Playing in 17 games for the Quebec Kebs, he comes in averaging 5.6 points per game with a season high of 23 points against the Power on December 30, 2011. Bodiford played collegiate ball at Indiana University Southeast of the NAIA and worked out with the Indiana Pacers of the NBA in the summer of 2011.

The Power organization is very pleased to bring Bodiford and on board. He possesses strong ball handling, shooting, strength and athleticism, just in time for the Durham Region team's playoff push.

'We definitely wish Andrew Francis all the best,' said Gary Durrant, President of Basketball Operations. 'Bodiford will add toughness on the wing. He's a hard-nosed player who really wanted the opportunity to play for the Oshawa Power.'

The next Power home game is January 26, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. against the Saint John Mill Rats.

Power Glance

Record: 8-17

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

*****************************************************
  CHINA   


CBA All Stars GAme - by Robert Wang
2012 CBA all stars players voting has been on and the 5th week votiong result is as following. South Part has been leading by Wang zhi Zhi (Center-434818), Zhou Peng (Forward-312795) and Yi Li (Forward-322565), Hu Xue Feng (Guard-289893), Zhang Bo (Guard-289083) . North Part is started by Ba Ter (Center-357120), Li Xiao Xu (Forward-398393) and Zhang Nan (Forward-285013), Yang Ming (Guard-366013) and Lv Xiao Ming (Guard-275535).
The headf coach od each part woluld be selected from the teams of south and north. The teams from South are included Guang Dong, Dong guan, Fo Shan, Ba Yi, Zhe Jiang, Guang Sha, Jiang Su, Shang Hai, Fu Jian. and the north teams are Liao Ning, Ji Lin, Bei Jing, Xin Jiang, Shan Dong, Tian Jin, Qing Dao, Shan Xi.





CBA All Stars Game - by Robert Wang
2012 CBA all stars players voting has been on and the 5th week votiong result is as following. South Part has been leading by Wang Zhi Zhi (Center-434818), Zhou Peng (Forward-312795) and Yi Li (Forward-322565), Hu Xue Feng (Guard-289893), Zhang Bo (Guard-289083) . North Part is started by Ba Ter (Center-357120), Li Xiao Xu (Forward-398393) and Zhang Nan (Forward-285013), Yang Ming (Guard-366013) and Lv Xiao Ming (Guard-275535).
The headf coach od each part woluld be selected from the teams of south and north. The teams from South are included Guang Dong, Dong guan, Fo Shan, Ba Yi, Zhe Jiang, Guang Sha, Jiang Su, Shang Hai, Fu Jian. and the north teams are Liao Ning, Ji Lin, Bei Jing, Xin Jiang, Shan Dong, Tian Jin, Qing Dao, Shan Xi.





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


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. CEZ Nymburk 23-1 
 2. BK Prostejov 20-4 
 3. BK Pardubice 18-6 
 4. BK Decin 17-7 
 5. BC Kolin 16-8 
 6. USK Praha 14-10 
 7. NH Ostrava 12-12 
 8. Levice 10-14 
 9. Svitavy 9-15 
 10. Chomutov 8-16 
 11. Usti n/Labem 6-18 
 12. B&W Opava 5-19 
 13. Inter Bratislava 5-19 
 14. Plzen 5-19 


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Keaton GRANT
  Levice
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Grant, Levice20.9 
 2. Sedmak, USK Praha19.5 
 3. Henderson, Levice18.5 
 4. Wright, Chomutov17.9 
 5. Lowery, Chomutov17.7 
 6. Hruban, USK Praha17.2 
 7. McFadden, Usti n.16.7 
 8. Houska, BK Decin16.4 
 9. Wilson, CEZ N.16.0 
 10. Longmire, Usti n.15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Votroubek, USK P.9.2 
 2. Naymick, CEZ N.8.4 
 3. Meno, Svitavy8.2 
 4. Arnold, BK Pardu.8.1 
 5. Gadri-N., BK Prost.7.3 
 6. Peterson, BK Prost.7.2 
 7. Houska, BK Decin6.9 
 8. Pesic, Inter B.6.9 
 9. Hughes, NH Ostrava6.9 
 10. Manousos, NH Os.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Michal SOTNAR
  USK Praha
  (189-PG-92)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Sotnar, USK Praha5.1 
 2. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 3. Barnes, BC Kolin4.2 
 4. Vrubl, Plzen4.1 
 5. George, Svitavy3.9 
 6. Lawrence, CEZ N.3.8 
 7. Wright, NH Ostrava3.6 
 8. Boyer, BK Decin3.6 
 9. Ames, BC Kolin3.6 
 10. McFadden, Usti n.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Thaddeus MCFADDEN
  Usti n.
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. McFadden, Usti n.2.5 
 2. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 3. Ames, BC Kolin2.2 
 4. Klecka, B&W Opava2.2 
 5. Pumprla, CEZ N.2.1 
 6. Sirina, B&W Opava2.1 
 7. Wright, NH Ostrava2.0 
 8. Grant, Levice1.8 
 9. Inge, NH Ostrava1.8 
 10. Lowery, Chomutov1.6 
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.1.4 
 4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.3 
 5. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 6. Grant, Levice1.0 
 7. Meno, Svitavy1.0 
 8. Pumprla, CEZ N.0.9 
 9. Henderson, Levice0.8 
 10. Houska, BK Decin0.8 


EuroChallenge: BK Pardubice edged BC Nizhny Novgorod in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
BK Pardubice - BC Nizhny Novgorod 87:80

BK Pardubice edged BC Nizhny Novgorod in Czech Republic in one of the last games on Wednesday in Round 3. They got 87:80 victory for the initial success.
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-15. But BC Nizhny Novgorod won second period 24-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when BK Pardubice won last quarter 27-22. They made 32-of-37 free shots during the game, while BC Nizhny Novgorod only scored fifteen points from the stripe.
The best player for the winners was Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. Four BK Pardubice players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Polish forward Michal Ignerski who recorded 28 points and 5 rebounds and forward Artem Yakovenko (206-F-88) added 15 points respectively.

BK Pardubice: Corey Muirhead 20, Maurice Hampton (188-G-84, college: Austin Peay St.) 19, Marcus Arnold 15+15 rebs, Lukas Kotas (194-F-84) 12
BC Nizhny Novgorod: Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) 28, Artem Yakovenko 15

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


First division: Round 14 - by Eurobasket News
Round 14 of the First division for men was played last weekend. There was a change on top of the standings as Randers and Lemvig joined Amager BK with 11-3 record. Amager failed in this round to Glostrup as a guest 84-69. At the same time, Randers celebrated 61-96 win against Jonstrup, while Lemvig was better than Virum 73-66. Thus, there is a three-way tie on top now. In the other games, Stevnsgade outplayed Solrod at home 86-80 for 6-6 record in the league. Koge BK grabbed 68-65 victory in very exciting game against Haderslev and the hosts have 9-5 record now. Aarhus improved to 10-4 after 77-59 home win against ALBA. In the opening game of this round, Jonstrup handed 81-90 home loss to Solrod. Round 15 is scheduled for the next weekend.

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


Lakers send Derrick Caracter to D-Fenders - by Eurobasket News
After his surgically repaired left knee kept him sidelined for the past 43 days, Lakers forward Derrick Caracter (6'9''-F-88, college: UTEP) will finally return to the court.

Just not in a Lakers' uniform.

The Lakers assigned him to their Developmeant League affiliate, the D-Fenders, in time to appear in Thursday's game against the Bakersfield Jam. The Lakers sent rookie guard Andrew Goudelock on a D-League assignment during training camp, but Caracter's appearance marks the Lakers' first assignment during the regular season.

Caracter, who suffered the injury in the fourth day of training camp on Dec. 12, played a pretty modest role last season, averaging only two points in 5.2 minutes per game in 41 contests. He then had arthroscopic surgery two days later.

Although the Lakers' backcourt hardly has provided much, Caracter's absence has meant little. Aside from his limited production last season, the Lakers' frontcourt already features Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and reserves, Josh McRoberts and Troy Murphy. Meanwhile, the Lakers have relied heavily too much on rookie guards Darius Morris and Andrew Goudelock because they remain depleted in the backcourt.

Caracter has already made two separate trips to the D-League last season, averaging 8.7 points and six rebounds in 19.7 minutes through three regular-season games with Bakersfield. He also averaged seven points, 10 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 21.5 minutes per game in two postseason appearances.

Courtesy of http://lakersblog.latimes.com

Armor easily take Charge, 104-92 - by Eurobasket News
Jordan Williams (6'10''-F-90, college: Maryland) had the kind of game Tuesday night sure to bring smiles to Springfield and New Jersey.

Williams scored 18 points and had a game-high 14 rebounds, leading the Springfield Armor to a 104-92 NBA D-League victory over the Canton Charge at Memorial Civic Center. It was his third double-double, and perhaps the most impressive one in his four games since being assigned from the Nets one week ago.

'I want to do that every night', Williams said.

'He's learning how to play at a consistent level', Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. 'He hasn't played in games since last winter when he was at (the University of) Maryland.'

Williams wasnt alone. Dennis Horner (6'9''-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.), who was alongside Williams with the Nets until being released Jan. 20 and re-signed by the Armor, came off the bench to score 19 points in the Armors first road win in three tries.

They were with the Nets, but they werent playing in games. And with the way the NBA schedule is right now, there werent even practices going on, MacKinnon said. To get back into game action, its an adjustment, its almost like youre re-learning how to play hard and how to play consistently hard. I think (Horners) doing a fantastic job of re-learning that.

Add in the contributions of 7-foot center Jeff Foote, a Portland Trail Blazers training-camp invitee who scored 19 points and grabbed eight boards, and the Armor (12-12) rode a strong third quarter to a win over a team it had never faced.

Jordan and Dennis just got here, Foote said. Its not like weve had a lot of time to jell really. ... Its starting to come together as a group.

Between the three of them, its a nice rotation for us, MacKinnon said.

Former University of Michigan guard Manny Harris scored a season-high 32 points for Canton (10-14). The Charge, an expansion team and the farm team of the Cleveland Cavaliers, lost their fourth straight.

Five Armor players reached double figures. In addition to Williams, Foote and Horner, Lance Hurdle (6'2''-G-87, college: Miami, FL) scored 16 points and L.D. Williams (6'4''-G-88, college: Wake Forest) added 12. Jordan Williams and Foote each had three blocked shots. An effective trapping defense played a part in forcing the Charge into 20 turnovers.

Ahead by two points at halftime, the Armor put the game away by outscoring the Charge 20-5 in the first seven minutes of the third quarter. Foote and Jordan Williams had blocks on Cantons first two possessions of the second half, setting up a theme that would repeat itself. The Charge made just 4 of 16 shots in the third as a two-point Armor advantage ballooned to 17.

Jordan Williams was assigned to the Armor so he could get more minutes, and that certainly happened Tuesday. He was the only player on either team to play the entire first quarter, when he scored nine points, grabbed six rebounds and went to the free-throw line 10 times. He wound up playing a game-high 35 minutes.

When Canton managed to throw some defense his way, then Foote destroyed the Charge inside. Foote made 9 of 15 shots, including an alley-oop dunk off a feed from JamesOn Curry.

Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Standings
D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Iowa E. 16-6 
 2. Springfield A. 12-12 
 3. Dakota W. 10-12 
 4. Erie Bay H. 10-13 
 5. Canton C. 10-14 
 6. Ft.Wayne MA 9-14 
 7. Maine RC 8-16 
 8. Sioux Falls S. 7-17 
West Conference
 1. Austin T. 18-4 
 2. Los Angeles D. 17-8 
 3. Rio Grande VV 15-9 
 4. Bakersfield J. 12-10 
 5. Tulsa 66ers 12-12 
 6. Reno B. 11-12 
 7. Texas L. 11-13 
 8. Idaho S. 8-14 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Ahearn, Reno B.24.6 
 2. Costner, Los A.23.8 
 3. Emmett, Reno B.23.8 
 4. Dentmon, Austin T.23.6 
 5. Millsap, Los A.21.9 
 6. Ubiles, Dakota W.20.8 
 7. Howard, Ft.Wayne.19.8 
 8. Mitchell, Sioux F.19.7 
 9. Lazare, Ft.Wayne.18.9 
 10. Dyson, Tulsa 66e.18.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 14
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers14.0 
 2. Famous, Iowa E.11.0 
 3. Dawson, Austin T.10.5 
 4. Williams, Texas L.10.4 
 5. Milligan, Canton C.9.3 
 6. Andrews, Los A.9.2 
 7. Smith, Rio G.9.1 
 8. Foote, Springfield8.9 
 9. Thomas, Reno B.8.7 
 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. Curry, Springfield6.5 
 5. Cooksey, Texas L.6.4 
 6. Coleman, Sioux F.6.3 
 7. Bozeman, Reno B.6.2 
 8. Wise, Bakersfield5.9 
 9. Baker, Dakota W.5.9 
 10. Ahearn, Reno B.5.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jamaal TINSLEY
  Los A.
  (191-G-78)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Tinsley, Los A.2.4 
 2. Coleman, Sioux F.2.3 
 3. Fortson, Los A.2.2 
 4. Millsap, Los A.2.1 
 5. Owens, Tulsa 66ers2.0 
 6. Curry, Springfield1.9 
 7. Baker, Dakota W.1.9 
 8. Dyson, Tulsa 66ers1.9 
 9. Emmett, Reno B.1.9 
 10. Russell, Ft.Wayne.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. N''Diaye, Iowa E.2.4 
 4. Daniels, Erie B.2.1 
 5. Saunders, Rio G.2.1 
 6. Williams, Texas L.1.9 
 7. Alabi, Bakersfield1.9 
 8. Ojougboh, Tulsa1.8 
 9. Dove, Dakota W.1.6 
 10. Tisdale, Maine RC1.6 


Stampede acquire Devin Green in three-way trade - by Eurobasket News
The Idaho Stampede have acquired guard-forward Devin Green (6'7''-G/F-82, college: Hampton) from the Erie BayHawks in a three-way trade also including the Canton Charge. In the trade, Idaho sends their 2012 2nd round draft pick to Canton, while Erie gets Keith McLeod (6'3''-PG-79, college: Bowling Green).

So far this season, Green has played in 11 games (11 starts) and averaged 14.9 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 47.6 percent from the field and 80.8 percent from the free throw line with Erie. Green has played two other seasons in the D-League, both with the Los Angeles D-Fenders from 2006-08. Green's career D-League averages are 16.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 steals in 35.5 minutes in 49 games (49 starts).

Born Oct. 25, 1982, Green has one season under his belt in the NBA, playing 27 games with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005-06. He averaged 0.9 points and 0.9 rebounds in 5.0 minutes per game.

Since then, Green has played in Germany, Italy, Belgium and Bulgaria, while also going to summer camp with the Lakers, Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves and, before this season, the New York Knicks.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Green played three seasons at Hampton University, where he averaged 14.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals in 31.8 minutes per game in 90 games from 2002-05.

The Idaho Stampede roster currently stands at 8, with the waiving of Kevin Galloway and Mildon Ambres.

Courtesy of wwwoursportscentral.com

Stampede trade Devendorf to Reno for Chris Davis, Conroy rejoins Vipers - by Eurobasket News
Chris Davis (6'3''-G-86, college: Southern), a 6-foot-3 guard who played college basketball at Southern, appeared in 15 games with the Bighorns. He is averaging 6.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Davis is expected to play Thursday night when Idaho travels to Springfield. The Stampede sent guard Eric Devendorf (6'4''-G-87, college: Syracuse), a Syracuse product, to the Bighorns as a part of the trade.

One of the greatest players in D-League history rejoins the Vipers this week, as guard and 10-year veteran William Conroy (6'2''-G-82, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Washington) returns to the team he helped win a title in 2010.

*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Deron WILLIAMS
  Besiktas
  (191-PG-84)
  Avg: 33.7
 1. Williams, Besiktas33.7 
 2. Washington, Turk T.22.0 
 3. Stanojevic, Karsi.21.0 
 4. Chatman, Karsiyaka19.6 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.19.0 
 6. Copeland, Aalstar18.6 
 7. Karadeniz, Turk T.18.3 
 8. Stimac, Olin Edirne18.0 
 9. Holland, Roanne17.9 
 10. Richardson, Armia17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Will THOMAS
  Armia
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Thomas, Armia11.3 
 2. Kjellbom, Armia9.8 
 3. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.9.5 
 4. Bader, Szolnok9.4 
 5. Majok, Nitra9.3 
 6. Arnold, BK Pardu.8.9 
 7. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.6 
 8. Young, Aalstar8.4 
 9. Stanojevic, Karsi.8.4 
 10. Terry, Khimik8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Jordan, Telekom9.1 
 2. Eldridge, Minsk-20.6.5 
 3. Tchicamboud, Cha.6.1 
 4. Moore, Keravnos6.0 
 5. Holston, Art.Drag.5.8 
 6. Barrett, Roanne5.8 
 7. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.5.7 
 8. Slagter, Leiden5.6 
 9. Gaines, Armia5.5 
 10. Wright, Olin Edir.5.3 
Steals Per Game
 Denis CLEMENTE
  Nitra
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Clemente, Nitra2.8 
 2. Frazier, Keravnos2.7 
 3. Moore, Keravnos2.6 
 4. Diane, Nitra2.5 
 5. Morris, U.Mobite.2.4 
 6. Pandula, BK Prost.2.3 
 7. Washington, Turk T.2.3 
 8. Greene, Hoverla2.3 
 9. Hasbrouck, EWE B.2.1 
 10. Young, Ventspils2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Joakim KJELLBOM
  Armia
  (213-C/F-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Kjellbom, Armia2.3 
 2. Gaffney, Teleko.2.2 
 3. Mejri, Antwerp1.9 
 4. Hardin, Minsk-20061.7 
 5. Erden, Besiktas1.7 
 6. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.7 
 7. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.1.6 
 8. Knox, Minsk-20061.5 
 9. Baxter, Enisey1.4 
 10. Pustovyi, Khimik1.4 


EuroChallenge Round: 3 (Top 16) - by Eurobasket News
Group I
EWE Baskets - Leiden 85-62
EWE Basket rout ZZ Leiden in Oldenburg for 2-1 record in Group I. The German team did not have much troubles in a 85:62 victory. The team from Netherlands fell at 1-2 record. The hosts took the early lead in the game and enjoyed 27:14 after the first period. Moreover they added 23-13 in the second frame for 23-point lead at the halftime. In the third quarter EWE Basket produced a 24-21 surge and led the game to the victory. The guests managed to win the last period 14-11 but fell in the game. Kenny Hasbrouck (191-G-86, college: Siena) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Burrell posted 13. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) collected 10 points and 12 rebounds, while Milan Majstorovic (207-C-83) added 10. Seamus Boxley (201-F-82, college: Portland St.) netted 20 points in the losing effort and Worthy De Jong scored 11.

Roanne - Ventspils 88-89 OT
Ventspils upset Chorale de Roanne in France in Round 3 of EuroChallenge Group I. The Latvian side celebrated the initial victory to stay alive in the tournament. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Chorale de Roanne won third quarter 22-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Chorale de Roanne used huge pressure winning it 18-12 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 13-16. Ventspils shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. The best player for the winners was Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia) who scored 25 points and 7 rebounds. Martins Meiers (206-C-91) chipped in 12 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was John Holland (195-G/F-88, college: Boston U.) who recorded 31 points and 8 rebounds and Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming) added 16 points and 9 rebounds respectively.

Group J
Telekom Baskets - Szolnok 89-75
Gaffney leads Telekom Baskets over Szolnok in the last game of Day 3 in EuroChallenge. The German team celebrated 89:75 for 2-1 record. The game was mostly controlled by Telekom Baskets. Szolnok managed to win third quarter 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Telekom Baskets looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Szolnok's players. The best player for the winners was American forward Tony Gaffney (204-F-84, college: Massachusetts) who scored 26 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. His fellow American import point guard Talor Battle (183-PG-88, college: Penn St.) chipped in 16 points and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who recorded 25 points and 5 rebounds and center Peter Grebenar (211-C-81, agency: TSS Management) added 13 points respectively. The Hungarian team fell at 1-2 record.

Chalon - Aalstar 87-72
Chalon edged visiting Aalstar to keep the perfect record in Group J of EuroChallenge. The French side grabbed 3-0 record on top after 87:72 win. Aalstar scored the first 10 points in the game and had massive 30:10 lead after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they led 48:28 at the halftime but failed in the second half. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 31-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Chalon/Saor looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Steed Tchicamboud who scored 14 points and 9 assists. Alade Aminu (207-C/F-87, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Christopher Young (206-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Michigan) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and Stefon Jackson (196-G-85, college: UTEP) added 18 points and 7 rebounds respectively.

Group K
BK Pardubice - N.Novgorod 87-80
BK Pardubice edged BC Nizhny Novgorod in Czech Republic in one of the last games on Wednesday in Round 3. They got 87:80 victory for the initial success. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-15. But BC Nizhny Novgorod won second period 24-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when BK Pardubice won last quarter 27-22. BC Nizhny Novgorod was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American power forward Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. Arnold is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the other side the best for losing team was Polish forward Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) who recorded 28 points and 5 rebounds and forward Artem Yakovenko (206-F-88) added 15 points respectively.

Fuenlabrada - Besiktas 72-70
Fuenlabrada wins the top game of Day 3 over Besiktas Milangaz for 3-0 record on top of EuroChallenge Group K. The Spanish team celebrated a 72:70 victory to hand the Turkish team their first loss. Fuenlabrada took the lead early in the first period and enjoyed 22:13 after the end of it. David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple) meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 38:31. No matter how hard the Turkish team tried in the third quarter, they could not tie the score. Mike Hall (203-F-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) made two shots for 51:47, while only in the start of the fourth period the guests tasted the lead. Morrison Adam scored for 53:51 and David Hawkins brought 59:58. After the teams exchanged baskets, Mike Halltipped in a miss and was fouled by Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) and made the free-throw to close the gap to 65:63. Colom and again Mike Hall scored the last points for the winners to seal the victory. Mike Hall stepped up with 15 points and Joaquim Colom (188-PG-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14. Penney Kirk delivered 10, while Mainoldi Leonardo notched 8. Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) replied with 17 points in defeat and Morrison Adam added 16. David Hawkins scored 12 as Besiktas is second in the group with 2-1 record.

Group L
Antwerp - Triumph 83-58
Antwerp Giants keep Triumph winless in EuroChallenge Group L. The Belgian team overcame the Russian representative 83:58. Antwerp Giants started better and never looked behind in the game. They had 25:14 and then Ralph Biggs (199-F-76, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) increased to 30:16. He made it also 42:24, while Moors scored for 52:30. Triumph had nothing left in them because the Giants tightened the screw over the last 10 minutes, extending their advantage to 30 before walking off the court with a 25-point win. Donkor was the last to score for the hosts, while Kurtsevich closed the score in the game. Roll Michael and Ralph Biggs top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) nailed 10 and Black Timothy finished the night with 9 points. Kuzyakin Artem notched 21 in defeat, while Davon Jefferson (204-F-86, college: USC) scored 15.

Karsiyaka - Art.Dragons 95-99
Artland Dragons stole the show from Turkey as they opened Round 3 of EuroChallenge with the road win over Pinar Karsiyaka. The German team celebrated 99:95 win due to the last period. The victory allowed them to grab 3-0 record on top of Group L. The Turkish side meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped to 2-1 record in the second place. It was an offensive start in the game as both teams scored 27 points in the opening period. Moreover the second quarter brought 20-20, that totaled for 47:47 at the halftime. Pinar Karsiyaka won the third period 30-21 and led by 9 points with 10 minutes to go. Artland Dragons however did not give up and after 31-18 in the last stanza sealed the victory. David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) erupted with 31 points for the winners to keep the perfect record in Group L. Thomas nailed 17 and Fenn posted 13. Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) had a great night with 32 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort, while Mire Chatman (187-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: UTPA) notched 24. Karaman collected 16 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Batuk added 7.



Standings
EuroChallenge Standings
Group I
 1. Roanne 2-1 
 2. EWE Baskets 2-1 
 3. Leiden 1-2 
 4. Ventspils 1-2 
Group J
 1. Telekom Baskets 2-1 
 2. Chalon 2-1 
 3. Szolnok 1-2 
 4. Aalstar 1-2 
Group K
 1. Fuenlabrada 3-0 
 2. Besiktas 2-1 
 3. BK Pardubice 1-2 
 4. N.Novgorod 0-3 
Group L
 1. Art.Dragons 3-0 
 2. Karsiyaka 2-1 
 3. Antwerp 1-2 
 4. Triumph 0-3 


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


Skordilis toruble for Aris - by Uygar Karaca
Now Dominic James left the team as expected and the nominees to fill the void were listed already. However, the ex-player of Aris, Gaios Skordilis (206-C-87) was not paid and because of that, Aris can be refrained from new additions. According to sport24.gr, names as Russell Robinson (185-G-86), Justin Gray (188-G-84, college: Wake Forest) or Taurean Green (185-G-85, college: Florida) were discussed but the club was bounded to pay its remaining debt to Gaios Skordilis and because of that reason, it seems like FIBA stood between Aris and the new additions, moreover, additional sanctions can come according to the article.

Lucas is close to Banvit - by Uygar Karaca
According to turkbasket.com, Kalin Lucas (185-PG-89, college: Michigan St.) is close to Banvit. After a half season of within the guard rotation near by Spanoulis, Mantzaris and Sloukas at Olympiakos, the arrival of Acie Law plus the well-known financial difficulties of Olympiakos led him part
ways with him and his citizen, Matt Howard. Now, after the defeat at St. Petersburg, Banvit decided to add a new player to the guard rotation. The decision sounds sensible and of
course the coach Orhun Ene, one of the best guards of Turkish National Team history, knows about which capabilities needed to fullfill the responsibilities in that position. Right now,
Bars Ermis, Keith Simmons and Cliff Hammond shares the guard rotation mainly and reinforcement needed. The team has a strong position for domestic playoffs and has 1-1 W/L
count at Eurocup Last 16.

Mavrokefalidis number one in Eurocup for round 2 - by Eurobasket News
Greek center Loukas Mavrokefalidis (208-C-84) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Spartak SP, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 2 (Top 16).
The 27-year old player was the main contributor (29 points, eight rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Banvit BK (#3, 1-1) 80-71. It allowed Spartak SP to consolidate first place in the Eurocup group K. But it's just the very beginning of the Top 16 and Spartak SP won both games without losing any. It's too early to say anything as the standings can be changed completely after next round. In the team's last game Mavrokefalidis had a remarkable 55.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be Spartak SP's top player in his first season with the team.

The second best player in last round's games was young Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of league's second-best Lietuvos rytas. Valanciunas had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Lietuvos rytas cruised to a 78-69 relatively comfortable win over Benetton TV (1-1). The Top 16 is still at the very beginning and this victory may help a lot. Let's wait for the next round. Valanciunas is a newcomer at Lietuvos rytas and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) of league's second-best CEZ Nymburk. Simmons showcased his all-around game by recording 25 points, five rebounds and seven assists in the last round. He was a key player of CEZ Nymburk, leading his team to a 79-62 easy win against #4 ranked Gravelines in a game of the week. CEZ Nymburk has a very good start of the Top 16. But there were just 2 games played, so it's too early to judge them at this stage. Simmons also has a very good start of the Top 16 with very strong stats. Simmons has a great season in Eurocup. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.9ppg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Maxim Grigoryev (195-G-90) of Lokomotiv - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) of Krka - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Kyle Weaver (198-G-86) of ALBA - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82) of Khimky - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Charles Davis (202-F-84) of Banvit BK - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Derrick Allen (203-F-80) of ALBA - 19 points and 5 rebounds
10. Ronald Davis (190-G-82) of Aris - 22 points and 6 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)

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


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.18.7 
 4. Domercant, Unics16.8 
 5. Mallet, Spirou16.6 
 6. Gallinari, Armani16.4 
 7. Weems, Zalgiris15.9 
 8. Carroll, Real Madr.15.7 
 9. Krstic, CSKA15.7 
 10. Pekovic, Partizan15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Milan MACVAN
  Partizan
  (206-C-89)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Macvan, Partizan8.2 
 2. Kirilenko, CSKA8.1 
 3. Motiejunas, Asseco7.9 
 4. Slaughter, Brose B.6.9 
 5. Akingbala, Nancy6.9 
 6. Krstic, CSKA6.7 
 7. Bourousis, Armani6.7 
 8. Kasun, KK.6.6 
 9. Freeland, Unicaja6.4 
 10. Zoric, Unicaja6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Milos TEODOSIC
  CSKA
  (195-G-87)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Teodosic, CSKA5.4 
 2. Rodriguez, Real M.5.3 
 3. Batum, Nancy5.2 
 4. Cook, Armani MI5.0 
 5. Diamantidis, Panat.4.8 
 6. Tunceri, Anadolu4.7 
 7. Prigioni, Caja L.4.6 
 8. Spanoulis, Olympia.4.6 
 9. Huertas, FCB Regal4.6 
 10. Blassingame, Asse.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Tarence KINSEY
  Anadolu .
  (200-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Kinsey, Anadolu2.6 
 2. Prigioni, Caja L.2.2 
 3. Sefolosha, Fener.U.2.1 
 4. Linehan, Nancy2.0 
 5. Kirilenko, CSKA1.9 
 6. Slaughter, Brose B.1.8 
 7. Gordon, Galatasaray1.8 
 8. Batum, Nancy1.7 
 9. Eidson, FCB Regal1.6 
 10. Diamantidis, Pana.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA2.9 
 2. Ibaka, Real Madrid2.0 
 3. Begic, Real Madrid1.6 
 4. Riddick, Spirou1.6 
 5. Ilyasova, Anadolu1.5 
 6. Perovic, FCB Regal1.3 
 7. Fischer, Gescrap BB1.3 
 8. Slaughter, Brose B.1.3 
 9. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.3 
 10. James, Maccabi T.1.1 


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group E
 1. CSKA 2-0 
 2. Anadolu Efes 1-1 
 3. Olympiakos 0-1 
 4. Galatasaray 0-1 
Group F
 1. Montepaschi 2-0 
 2. Gescrap BB 1-1 
 3. Real Madrid 1-1 
 4. Unicaja 0-2 
Group G
 1. Unics 2-0 
 2. Fener.Ulker 1-1 
 3. Panathinaikos 1-1 
 4. Armani MI 0-2 
Group H
 1. FCB Regal 1-0 
 2. Maccabi T-A 1-0 
 3. Bennet Cantu 1-1 
 4. Zalgiris 0-2 


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


KORISLIIGA: Teemu Rintala saved Kouvot - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 25: Kouvot (Kouvola) can say thanks a lot to C Teemu Rintala (203-F/C-88), who made both FTs at time 39:59 and hosting Kouvot won by the same over Vilpas (Salo) 66-65 (23-29). Those FTs were the only ones for Rintala in the contest. Roope Ahonen (187-PG-90, agency: FCM) had helped Vilpas into 64-65 lead at time 39:31. Then Antoine Jordan (196-G-83, college: Siena) missed his 2-pointer, Anthony Brown (203-F-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.) grabbed an offensive rebound and missed with his 2-pointer. That shot was grabbed by Rintala and Allen Durham (198-F-88, college: Grace Bible) fouled Kouvot center. Anthony Brown led Kouvot with a double-double 20pts/10rbs.
Another close game between YMCA Lahti and Bisons (Loimaa) in Lahti. Bisons came strong during the last 10 minutes and survived with made FTs. The visitors won 78-82 (43-49). Sami Pekkola (200-F-83) netted 20 points for YMCA Lahti. Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Amer.Internat.) gave 11 assists. Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) knocked down 21 pts and gave five assists. Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) scored 16 pts and grabbed 18 rbs.
YMCA Lappeenranta defeated Korihait (Uusikaupunki) 77-72 (36-31). Tyler Tiedeman (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Boise St.) made 11 out of 12 FTs and netted altogether 25 pts. Lawrence Hamm (198-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) had a double-double 15pts/11rbs. Nigel Moore (195-F/G-81, college: Alabama A&M) scored 28 pts for Korihait. James Reaves (203-F-82, agency: TSS Management, college: Niagara) started with four pts and six rbs in 20 minutes. At Kauhajoki local Karhu beat Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) 93-69 (44-33). Vesa Makalainen (200-F-86) led the hosts with a double-double 19pts/11rbs. Clevin Hannah (180-PG-87, agency: Court Side, college: Wichita St.) added 19 pts as well. Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) netted game high 22 pts for ToPo. Newcomer Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, agency: Hightower Law Firm, college: N.Arizona) added 17 pts in 34 minutes.
Kouvot - Vilpas 66-65 (23-29). (Anthony Brown 20/10, Antoine Jordan 18/11, Ilari Seppala 10 - Allen Durham 14/13, Roope Ahonen 12, John Fields 8/15. A: 945).
YMCA Lahti - Bisons 78-82 (43-49). (Sami Pekkola 20, Ryan Brooks 19, Brant Bailey 16 - Jeb Ivey 21/5a, Mikko Koivisto 18, Martin Zeno 16/18. A: 853).
YMCA Lappeenranta - Korihait 77-72 (36-31). (Tyler Tiedeman 25, Jouko Jarvinen 16, Lawrence Hamm 15/11 - Nigel Moore 28, Cory Johnson 17, Mikko Jalonen 16. A: 647).
Karhu - ToPo 93-69 (44-33). (Vesa Makalainen 19/11, Clevin Hannah 19, Kelly Beidler 15 - Chase Griffin 22, Josh Wilson 17, Hanno Mottola 16/9. A: 630).



Reaves comes back to UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki - by Eurobasket Center
UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki strengthened their roster with addition of 30-year old American forward James Reaves (203-F-111kg-82, college: Niagara). Its actually Reaves comeback to Korihait as he played here before. In his first game he scored 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. However his new team lost to LrNMKY 72-77. Reaves played most recently at Barreteros de Zacatecas (Mexico). He is a very experienced player. Reaves played also pro basketball in Germany, Mexico and Venezuela. He graduated Niagara University in 2004 and actually missed last season. It will be his eighth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

KORISLIIGA: Roster changes again - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korihait (Uusikaupunki) has made changes on Team roster. But first sad news. Cedric Latimer (198-F-87, college: St.Francis, PA) will be on injured list at least untill beginning of March. And American NCAA1 finalist Shawn Vanzant's (183-PG-88, college: Butler) season is over in Uusikaupunki. PG Shawn Vanzant (13,1 ppg - 2,1 apg) leaves Korihait and will be replaced by C-F James Reaves (203-F-82, agency: TSS Management, college: Niagara). Reaves played also last season on Korihait roster averaging 14,3 ppg - 7,5 rpg in 50 games and 28:37 mpg.
Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) has now two American players on the roster. SG Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) will be joined by PG Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, agency: Hightower Law Firm, college: N.Arizona). Wilson has played earlier in Germany and in Hungary (Kaposvari KK). This season Wilson played 14 games in Hungary Top League averaging 17,9 ppg - 5,9 apg in 36 minutes/game.

Wilson is back at Torpan Pojat Helsinki - by Eurobasket Center
Torpan Pojat Helsinki agreed terms with 25-year old American Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, college: N.Arizona). Its actually Wilsons comeback to ToPo as he played here before. In his first game he scored 17 points. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Kauhajoki 69-93. Wilson played most recently at Kaposvari KK (Hungary). While playing 14 games for Kaposvari this season he averaged 17.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 5.9apg and 2.0spg. Wilson was selected also to the all-star game. He played also pro basketball in Germany and Hungary. Wilson graduated Northern Arizona University in 2009.


By Eurobasket Data Center



Josh Wilson joins Torpan Pojat Helsinki - by Eurobasket Center
Torpan Pojat Helsinki agreed terms with 25-year old American Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, college: N.Arizona). In his first game he scored 17 points. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Kauhajoki 69-93. Wilson played most recently at Kaposvari KK (Hungary). While playing 14 games for Kaposvari this season he averaged 17.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 5.9apg and 2.0spg. Wilson was selected also to the all-star game. He played also pro basketball in Germany and Hungary. Wilson graduated Northern Arizona University in 2009 and actually missed last season. It will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Korisliiga Round 27: Torpan Pojat loses to Kauhajoen Karhu in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The game between Top Four teams took place in Kauhajoki. Third ranked host Kauhajoen Karhu (16-9) smashed 4th placed Torpan Pojat (13-11) 93-69. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-69. Kauhajoen Karhu dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Torpan Pojat's 40. They outrebounded Torpan Pojat 43-24 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for international forward Vesa Makalainen (200-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. American point guard Clevin Hannah (180-87, college: Wichita St., agency: Court Side) helped adding 19 points and 6 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). The best for the losing side was American guard Chase Griffin (188-83, college: Pepperdine) with 22 points (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). Kauhajoen Karhu maintains third place with 16-9 record having three points less than leader Kataja. Torpan Pojat at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Kauhajoen Karhu are looking forward to face Tampereen Pyrinto (#4) on the road in the next round. Torpan Pojat will play against Namika Lahti and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Important game to mention about took place in Kouvola. Seventh ranked Kouvot (10-14) saved a 1-point victory at home edging 9th ranked Salon Vilpas (9-16) 66-65 in the game for the seventh place. Americans were the main players on the court. It was an exceptional evening for guard Antoine Jordan (196-83, college: Siena) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. Anthony Brown accounted for 20 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for Salon Vilpas in the defeat. Kouvot maintains seventh place with 10-14 record. Salon Vilpas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with 16 games lost. They share it with KTP and Korihait. Kouvot will play against league's leader Joensuun Kataja on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Salon Vilpas will have a break next round.

In the last two games of round 27 Korihait lost to LrNMKY on the opponent's court 72-77. Bottom-ranked Namika Lahti unfortunately lost to Nilan Bisons in a home game 78-82.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 25 points and 6 assists by Tyler Tiedeman of LrNMKY.


Kauhajoki - ToPo 93-69

The game between Top Four teams took place in Kauhajoki. Third ranked host Kauhajoen Karhu (16-9) smashed 4th placed Torpan Pojat (13-11) 93-69. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-69. Kauhajoen Karhu dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Torpan Pojat's 40. They outrebounded Torpan Pojat 43-24 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for international forward Vesa Makalainen (200-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. American point guard Clevin Hannah (180-87, college: Wichita St., agency: Court Side) helped adding 19 points and 6 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Five Kauhajoen Karhu players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard Chase Griffin (188-83, college: Pepperdine) with 22 points (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) and the former international power forward Hanno Mottola (209-76, college: Utah) scored 16 points and 9 rebounds. Kauhajoen Karhu maintains third place with 16-9 record having three points less than leader Kataja. Torpan Pojat at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Kauhajoen Karhu are looking forward to face Tampereen Pyrinto (#4) on the road in the next round. Torpan Pojat will play against Namika Lahti and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
ToPo: C.Griffin 22+1reb+2ast, J.Wilson 17+1reb+2ast, H.Mottola 16+9reb, E.Lehtinen 6+4reb, T.Iisalo 3+1reb, K.Muurinen 3+4reb+2ast
Kauhajoki: V.Makalainen 19+11reb+4ast, C.Hannah 19+4reb+6ast, K.Beidler 15+8reb+3ast, A.Huuskonen 14+4reb+1ast, T.Hendley 11+10reb, E.Skamo 8+2reb+1ast
gschID: 141759


LrNMKY - Korihait 77-72

Rather expected game in Lappeenranta where 8th ranked UU-Korihait (9-16) was defeated by sixth ranked LrNMKY (11-13) 77-72. The hosts were ahead by 5 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 27-20 run, which allowed them to win the game. LrNMKY made 16-of-20 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. It was an exceptional evening for forward Tyler Tiedeman (201-85, college: Boise St., agency: Interperformances) who led the winners and scored 25 points and 6 assists. Forward Lawrence Hamm (198-84, college: Towson, agency: Court Side) accounted for 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side. LrNMKY's coach Lassi Tuovi allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) came up with 28 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Cory Johnson (200-88, college: Valparaiso, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively for UU-Korihait in the defeat. LrNMKY have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 11-13 record. UU-Korihait at the other side keeps the eighth position with 16 games lost. They share it with KTP and Salon Vilpas. LrNMKY will play against KTP-Basket (#8) in Kotka in the next round. UU-Korihait will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Korihait: N.Moore 28+7reb+4ast, C.Johnson 17+6reb+2ast, M.Jalonen 16+5reb+3ast, J.Reaves 4+6reb+1ast, P.Heinonen 4+9reb+1ast, N.Malinen 2+1reb+1ast
LrNMKY: T.Tiedeman 25+4reb+6ast, J.Jarvinen 16+5reb, L.Hamm 15+11reb+2ast, M.Ojala 6+3reb, D.Haynes 5+3reb+2ast, V.Vanjoki 5+5reb+2ast
gschID: 141756


Kouvot - Salon Vilpas 66-65

Important game to mention about took place in Kouvola. Seventh ranked Kouvot (10-14) saved a 1-point victory at home edging 9th ranked Salon Vilpas (9-16) 66-65 in the game for the seventh place. It looked good early as Salon Vilpas took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Kouvot took control winning two of next three quarters and eventually winning the game that evening by 1 point. Kouvot forced 19 Salon Vilpas turnovers. Americans were the main players on the court. It was an exceptional evening for guard Antoine Jordan (196-83, college: Siena) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St., agency: KMG Sports Management) accounted for 20 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds and forward John Fields (205-88, college: Tennessee) added 8 points and 15 rebounds respectively for Salon Vilpas in the defeat. Kouvot maintains seventh place with 10-14 record. Salon Vilpas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with 16 games lost. They share it with KTP and Korihait. Kouvot will play against league's leader Joensuun Kataja on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Salon Vilpas will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Salon Vilpas: A.Durham 14+13reb+1ast, R.Ahonen 12+2reb+4ast, E.Holloway 9+1reb+1ast, A.Vaenerberg 8+1reb+2ast, J.Fields 8+15reb, M.Sandberg 5+2reb
Kouvot: A.Brown 20+10reb+1ast, A.Jordan 18+11reb+3ast, I.Seppala 10+4ast, A.Perttu 9+1reb, T.Rintala 6+7reb+1ast, J.Maenpaa 3+1reb
gschID: 141757


Namika Lahti - Nilan Bisons 78-82

Very predictable result when second ranked Loimaan Korikonkarit (17-5) defeated on the road bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (6-19) 82-78. The guests were ahead by 6 points but lost the second period ending it with a 4-point deficit before their 22-14 run, which allowed them to win the game. Loimaan Korikonkarit outrebounded Namika Lahti 45-31 including 35 on the defensive glass. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. It was an exceptional evening for guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Jeb Ivey (190-80, college: Portland St.) accounted for 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Four Loimaan Korikonkarit players scored in double figures. Guard Ryan Brooks (193-81, college: Temple, agency: Pro One Sports) came up with 19 points and 8 rebounds and guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) added 8 points, 8 rebounds and 11 assists respectively for Namika Lahti in the defeat. Loimaan Korikonkarit have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain second place with 17-5 record having five points less than leader Kataja. Namika Lahti at the other side stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Loimaan Korikonkarit will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Namika Lahti will play on the road against Torpan Pojat (#5) in Helsinki and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Namika Lahti: S.Pekkola 20+4reb+2ast, R.Brooks 19+8reb+2ast, B.Bailey 16+3reb+1ast, V.Makalainen 8+4reb, M.Moore 8+8reb+11ast, J.Vanttaja 7+2reb+1ast
Nilan Bisons: J.Ivey 21+6reb+5ast, M.Koivisto 18+5reb+1ast, M.Zeno 16+18reb+4ast, R.McDade 15+7reb, C.Jones 4+8reb, E.Aaltonen 3
gschID: 141758




Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. Kataja 20-4 
 2. Nilan Bisons 17-5 
 3. Kauhajoki 16-9 
 4. Pyrinto 13-10 
 5. ToPo 13-11 
 6. LrNMKY 11-13 
 7. Kouvot 10-14 
 8. KTP 9-16 
 9. Korihait 9-16 
 10. Salon Vilpas 9-16 
 11. Namika Lahti 6-19 


Standings - Division I
1st Division Standings
 1. FoKoPo 12-3
 2. Tapiolan Honka 12-3
 3. Pyrinto II 11-4
 4. BC Nokia 11-5
 5. Lapua 10-5
 6. Oulun NMKY 9-7
 7. SayRi 6-9
 8. Huima 6-9
 9. Porvoon Tarmo 5-10
 10. Ura Basket 5-10
 11. ToPo Akatemia 4-12
 12. Jyvaskyla 1-15


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.6
 1. Blue, KTP22.6 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons22.1 
 3. Beidler, Kauhajoki19.2 
 4. Newson, Kataja19.0 
 5. Holloway, Salon V.18.8 
 6. Crocker, KTP18.7 
 7. Brooks, Namika L.18.4 
 8. Tiedeman, LrNM.18.1 
 9. Griffin, ToPo17.8 
 10. Hamm, LrNM.17.4 
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, Kauhajoki9.2 
 5. Hairston, Salon V.8.7 
 6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons8.6 
 7. Williams, Pyrinto8.3 
 8. McDade, Nilan B.8.2 
 9. Brown, Kouvot7.8 
 10. Hamm, LrNM.7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jeb IVEY
  Nilan Bisons
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Ivey, Nilan Bisons5.4 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto4.4 
 3. Moore, Namika L.4.4 
 4. Virtanen, Kataja4.2 
 5. Hannah, Kauhajoki4.2 
 6. Sarcevic, KTP4.1 
 7. Haynes, LrNM.3.9 
 8. Walker, Kataja3.8 
 9. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.2 
 10. Ahonen, Salon Vil.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Sten, Kataja2.5 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto2.3 
 3. Moore, Korihait2.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.2 
 5. Moore, Namika L.1.9 
 6. Newson, Kataja1.9 
 7. Jordan, Kouvot1.8 
 8. Williams, Pyrinto1.7 
 9. Haynes, LrNM.1.7 
 10. Holloway, Salon V.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.2.3 
 2. Beidler, 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 


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


Torus Skopje hands 75-70 loss to OKK Beograd - by Eurobasket News
Torus Skopje - OKK Beograd 75-70

Torus outplayed OKK Beograd 75-70 in Round 7 of the Balkan league. The game was played last night in Skopje and it is the second win for Torus this season. The hosts were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 21-15 OKK Beograd's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 75-70 at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) contributed with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Filip Sepa (198-SG-90, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points and center Nenad Misanovic (217-C-84) added 18 pts in the effort for OKK Beograd. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Torus Skopje moved-up to fifth place, which they share with defeated OKK Beograd as both teams have 2-5 record. Torus Skopje will play against higher ranked Timisoara at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd will play against the group leader Galil Gilboa and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 16+3reb+6ast, J.Reynolds 15+8reb+2ast, P.Blazevski 14+2reb, G.Markovski 6+3reb+1ast, B.Trajkovski 5+4reb, J.Boswell 5+2reb
OKK Beograd: F.Sepa 19, N.Misanovic 18+4reb, S.Knezevic 13+5reb+1ast, V.Malidzan 8+2reb+4ast, D.Mitrovic 6+11reb+3ast, N.Bezbradica 4+4reb

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


Tony Gaffney (Marcus Camby is Similar To Chris Ensminger Who Will Probably Play Until He Is 50) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Tony Gaffney (204-F-84, college: Massachusetts) is a 27 year old 204cm forward from Berkely, Massachusetts that is playing for the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He is a forward who brings a high level of energy and athleticism to any teams he joins. He is a tenacious rebounder and great defender. He was the Atlantic 10 Conference defensive player of the year in 2008-09, and one of the nation's leading shot-blockers. He played at Boston University from 2004-2006 and then went to Massachusetts (NCAA) where he played from 2006-2009. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 11.5ppg, RebA10-2 (10.2rpg), 1.7apg, StealsA10-2 (2.0spg), BlocksNCAA-3 (3.8bpg), FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 64.6%: Finished career at UMass ranked seventh all-time in blocks (174). In 2009-2010, he played for Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa (Israel-Premier League): 1 game: 2pts, 2reb, 1steal, 1block, but left next month, in Apr.'10 moved to Boston Celtics (NBA). Last season, he played for the Boston Celtics (NBA), in Oct.'10 moved to Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-TBL): Turkish League: 8 games: 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 8.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.0spg; left in Jan.'11, same month acquired by Utah Flash (D-League): 38 games: 10.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.3apg, 1.4spg, Blocks-4 (2.3bpg), FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to eurobasket a few hours before the 2012 Beko BBL Allstar game.

What is your impression of the 2012 Beko BBL Allstar game?

I like the festivities and the interaction is nice with the fans. It is a nice way to relax with the guys.

Germany-USA. Do the Germans have any chance?

Of course Germany has a chance. They have many great players like a Tibor Pleiss or Heiko Schaffartzik. I feel like Heiko could make 45 points tonight. Germany has great leaders and I think that this game will be very competitive

You are taking part in the slam dunk contest. I heard that your Bonn teammate Andrej Mangold was in the gym with you helping you.

He has been my assist guy this week helping me. He was giving me ideas and I will be ready. I have some nice dunks in the work

The Telekom Baskets Bonn started at 5-0, but since then are 4-9. What have been the problems in the team?

We had some injuries after the good start. I think that we will be able to finish strong in the second half of the season. We can score with any team in the league, but our focus is on defense. Bringing in Taylor battle was a huge signing. Management has shown that they have trust in us.

Which Telekom Baskets Bonn player was the most improved in the first half of the season?

German Fabian Thuelig has been the most improved. He came into the starting lineup and has been very consistent and can knock down the three pointer. He plays in the flow and isnt a liability on defense. He is the first in the gym and the last to go. I think that he and Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann have good chances of making the German national team.

In the Eurochallenge game against Chalon, Jared Jordan connected twice to you for ally-op dunks. Do you practice that a lot? It seems like you could do it in your sleep.

We started practicing ally-ops in the first day of practice. When Jordan gets a rebound, he knows I will get down the floor quick and he just knows where I am and with a look of his eye, he is ready to make the pass to me.

How do you like your chances in the Eurochallenge?

I feel that we have good chances. It is always important to win your home games and steal one on the road. We beat Chalon, a team that had a 11 game winning streak and we were playing without Chris Ensminger. Other guys stepped up in the win against Chalon. We have very good chances to move on.

Did you study Marcus Camby as a kid? You both went to UMASS and like to block shots.

Camby was my favorite college player to watch as a kid. It looked so much fun seeing him flying around dunking and blocking shots. I was one meter tall at the time and never thought that I would be doing it one day. I was able to meet him 10 years later. He is a special player that is still going strong and has no signs of slowing down. Camby is similar to Ensminger who will probably play until he is 50.

Who is the best player that you played against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

The best player was Tyreke Evans who is an oversized point guard that can do so much. Sharrond Collins and Tyrese Rice are other guys as well.

You were so near in the NBA being on the Celtics and Lakers rosters. Will a combination of stats and contacts help you get back?

I dont feel as if the stats are so important. The NBA knows what I can do and it will be a matter of them needing me. There are so many guys in the Beko BBL that could play in the NBA. It just depends about getting the right situation. Guys like Slaughter and Tucker could be in the NBA now. You just have to find a general manager that will fall in love with you.

There are always some fairy tale basketball stories like Terrell Harris or Jon Leuer.

I played against Terrell Harris in the D-League and three years ago in the summer league with the Lakers. I couldnt be happier and it couldnt have happened to a better guy than Harris reaching the NBA. The same for Leuer who had a non guaranteed contract came to Europe and went to Bucks camp and got a job. He is similar to my game. He does some things better than I do, and I do some things better than he does. He is a stretch four and it is always good seeing guys make it like these two.


What was the most important thing that you learned from Boston Celtic Kevin Garnett?

Garnett was like a mentor for me, not as much as Ray Allen, but I try to emulate my game after Garnett. He plays each game as if it is his last game. I respect his preparation for every game as well. He never takes off a game and he is a true professional. The way he plays has changed how I view the game of basketball.

As a Boston Celtic fan, how difficult was it being a member of the Los Angeles Lakers?

It was tough the first five minutes, but then I got used to it. When you notice that a team believes in you, it is a lot easier to fall in love with them. It was great playing with guys like Bryant, gasol, Odom and Fischer and having a coach like Phil Jackson. Even the people who are closest to me became Laker fans.

Why isnt Jared Jordan in the NBA?

I think with him it also has to do with the situation, but his game is suited to Europe. He is enjoying Europe and he is one of the best point guards that I have seen play in Europe. It wouldnt surprise me if he makes a run at the NBA in the future.

Who was your favorite Celtic Larry Bird or Kevin Mchale?

Larry Bird is my alltime favorite Celtic, but Mchale and Robert Parish were something special as well.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row?

30-40.

What was your most crazy shot that you ever made?

When I was in middle school in seventh grade I was 13 and played in a 14 year old Allstar game. I hit three three pointers in a row with each new one being a few feet further away. My third three pointer was from about 45 feet. This experience has forever stuck in my mind.

How will the New England Patriots defeat the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship game?

The Patriots offensive line has to give Tom Brady time in the pocket. The Patriots need to block better. If they can put up 30 points then they should reach the Super Bowl and get redemption against the New York Giants who beat them some years back in the Super Bowl. However having the 49ers in the final would be nice as well as I loved Jerry Rice and Joe Montana as a kid as well.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I am watching King of queens the 8th season, but I have to slow down since there are only nine seasons.

Thanks Tony for the chat.

Schwenningen Panthers bring in Aaron Ellis - by Moritz Korff
1. Regionalliga side wiha Panthers Schwenningen has strengthened its roster by adding Aaron Ellis (205-F-87, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Wichita St.). The Panthers had to let go their leading scorer Elnis Prasovic (200-F-84) recently, as the Bosnian decided to transfer to KIT SC Karlsruhe.
Ellis spent his entire college career at NCAA D1 school Wichita State. In the 2010-11 season he played 37 games for the Shockers and contributed 4.5ppg and 3.6rpg, while capturing the NIT championship with WSU. Prior to his NCAA career Ellis attended Kaiserslautern American High School in Germany and was a member of the US U18-Team that participated in the 2004 Albert-Schweitzer-Tournament.

EuroChallenge: Gaffney leads Telekom Baskets over Szolnok - by Eurobasket News
Telekom Baskets - Szolnok 89:75

Tony Gaffney (204-F-84, college: Massachusetts) leads Telekom Baskets over Szolnok in the last game of Day 3 in EuroChallenge. The German team celebrated 89:75 for 2-1 record.
The game was mostly controlled by Telekom Baskets. Szolnok managed to win third quarter 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Telekom Baskets looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Szolnok's players.
The best player for the winners was American forward Tony Gaffney who scored 26 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. His fellow American import point guard Talor Battle (183-PG-88, college: Penn St.) chipped in 16 points and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who recorded 25 points and 5 rebounds and center Peter Grebenar (211-C-81, agency: TSS Management) added 13 points respectively. The Hungarian team fell at 1-2 record.

Szolnok: Hristo Nikolov 25, Peter Grebenar 13
Telekom Baskets: Tony Gaffney 26, Talor Battle 16, Zvonko Buljan (206-F-87, college: TCU) 16, B.Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) 13


Ex Skyliner Jermaine Bucknor Headed Back To Germany - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Canadian national player Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83, college: Richmond) is headed back to Germany to play in the Beko BBL. Bucknor is a 28 year old 199cm forward from Edmonton, Canada. Bucknor last played in Argentina for Libertad Sunchales where he played 17 games averaging 8,5ppg, 5,1rpg and 1,0apg in 22 minutes per game. The Beko BBL got a taste of his game last season as he played for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt playing 12 games: 7.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.6%; EuroChallenge: 4 games: 4.5ppg, 3.5rpg. Who could forget his strong effort in Hagen where he led Frankfurt to a victory with his hot three point scoring. After his stint with Frankfurt, he finished the season with Club 9 de Julio Rio Tercero (Argentina-LigaA) playing 18 games: 14.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.4apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.4%. Bucknor started his basketball career in 2001 with Richmond (NCAA) and played there until 2006. In 2006, he started his professional basketball career with Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProB): 12 games: 11.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 79.3%; left in Dec.'06, in Jan.'07 tested by Polpak Swiecie (Poland-DBL): 16 games: 7.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 57.6%. In 2007-2008, he played for ESSM Le Portel Cote d'Opale (France-ProB): French League: 24 games: 12.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 76.1%; 24 games: 12.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 75.0%; in May '08 agreed terms with Edmonton Chill (Canada-IBL). In 2008-2009, he played for Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne (France-ProB): 10 games: 11.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 81.8%, in Feb.'09 moved to Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-ProB): 12 games: 14.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 93.2%. In 2009-2010, he returned back to Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne (France-ProB): 31 games: 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 45.8%, FT: 82.4%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NIT Quarterfinals -02, Atlantic 10 Tournament Finalist -02, Atlantic 10 Tournament Semifinals -04, Canadian National Team-04, 05, Tournament of the Americas (Copa America) in Santo Domingo -05, All-Atlantic 10 2nd Team -06, Canadian National Team -06-07, 09-10, Panamerican Games in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) -07, Marchand Cup -09: 1 game: 0pts, 1reb, 1block, FIBA Americas in San Juan (Puerto Rico) -09 (Semifinals): 9 games: 4.4ppg, 2.6rpg, and the World Championships in Turkey -10: 5 games: 4.2ppg, 1.6rpg. Eurobasket sources has learned about the arrival of Bucknor to play in Germany again, but with all due respect to his new team will not reveal where his destination is until his new team makes it official.

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  HUNGARY   


EuroChallenge: Gaffney leads Telekom Baskets over Szolnok - by Eurobasket News
Telekom Baskets - Szolnok 89:75

Tony Gaffney (204-F-84, college: Massachusetts) leads Telekom Baskets over Szolnok in the last game of Day 3 in EuroChallenge. The German team celebrated 89:75 for 2-1 record.
The game was mostly controlled by Telekom Baskets. Szolnok managed to win third quarter 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Telekom Baskets looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Szolnok's players.
The best player for the winners was American forward Tony Gaffney who scored 26 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. His fellow American import point guard Talor Battle (183-PG-88, college: Penn St.) chipped in 16 points and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who recorded 25 points and 5 rebounds and center Peter Grebenar (211-C-81, agency: TSS Management) added 13 points respectively. The Hungarian team fell at 1-2 record.

Szolnok: Hristo Nikolov 25, Peter Grebenar 13
Telekom Baskets: Tony Gaffney 26, Talor Battle 16, Zvonko Buljan (206-F-87, college: TCU) 16, B.Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) 13


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  IRAN   


WABA League: Mahram cruise past Moutahed - by Eurobasket News
Mahram - Moutahed 106:73

Mahram registered the opening win at WABA League Group B action. They fired past Moutahed tonight. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Moutahed and Mahram stayed evenly matched in the opening quarter. The teams finished the period knotted up at 22. The lead changed hands throughout the second period. Mahram had the last laugh in the half taking a 41:39 advantage. The Iranian team slowly started to accumulate the advantage. Mahram entered the final quarter up by 27 points 79:52. They gained the room to breathe and never looked back en route to the victory. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) scored 20 points, while Pape Sow (208-F-81, college: CS Fullerton) accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 steals for the winners. Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) answered with 17 points for Moutahed. Cruz Daniels (211-C-85, college: High Point) and Bassem Balaa (198-F/C-81) netted 11 points each in the loss.

Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 21+12 boards, Hamed Afagh 20, Pape Sow 18
Moutahed: Austin Johnson 17, Cruz Daniels 11, Bassem Balaa 11


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  IRAQ   


WABA League: Champville topple Duhok - by Eurobasket News
Champville - Duhok 98:91

Champville managed to eke out a tough victory over pesky Duhok at the start of WABA League campaign in Group B. The Lebanese team escaped with a 7-point win behind 30 points and 9 rebounds from Samuel Hoskin (206-F/C-79, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: De Paul).
Both teams entered the game aggressively. They exchanged baskets as Champville snatched a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) went on court in the second term helping Champville clear off to a 14-point halftime lead 50:36. But Duhok struck back in the third quarter. The Iraqi team narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 71. Champville however regained control in the final term. They spurred back in front and hung on to win the battle. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) finished with 25 points, 13 boards and 4 assists for Champville. Fadi Khatib had 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Malcolm Battles (205-F/C-79, college: N.Mexico) answered with 22 points and 16 boards. Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.) had 21 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Champville: Samuel Hoskin 30, Garnett Thompson 25+13 boards, Fadi Khatib 19
Duhok: Malcolm Battles 22+16 boards, Chamberlain Oguchi 21


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  IRELAND   


SuperLeague Round 15: DCU Saints defeat B.Gais Neptune in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
Second-ranked B.Gais Neptune (8-6) gave a tough game to first ranked DCU Saints (14-2) in Cork on Sunday. The visitors from Dublin managed to secure only one-point victory 86-85. However their fans expected easier game. DCU Saints forced 21 B.Gais Neptune turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a great evening for guard Keith Anderson (188-G-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals. Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) helped adding 11 points and 10 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American power forward Ronald Thompson (208-81, college: Morehouse) with a double-double by scoring 26 points, 20 rebounds and 5 assists. DCU Saints have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-2 record. B.Gais Neptune at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face Belfast Star (#4) on the road in the next round. B.Gais Neptune's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Cork UCC Demons.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked 11890 Killester (10-5) against fourth ranked Moycullen (4-12) on Saturday night. Visiting 11890 Killester was defeated by Moycullen in a tough game in Moycullen 58-64. Moycullen maintains fourth place with 4-12 record. Defending champion 11890 Killester keeps the second position with five games lost. Moycullen will play against league's second-placed B.Gais Neptune in Cork in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. 11890 Killester will play at home against UCD Marian in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Limerick. Third ranked host UL Eagles (8-8) defeated 3rd placed UCD Marian (6-9) 75-68. The best player for the winners was Robert Taylor who scored 21 points and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Donnie Stith who recorded 15 points and 8 rebounds. UCD Marian's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. UL Eagles maintains third place with 8-8 record having six points less than leader UCC Demons which they share with defeated UCD Marian. Loser UCD Marian keeps the third position with nine games lost. UL Eagles will meet league's leader UCC Demons in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. UCD Marian will play against the league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Cork. First ranked host UCC Demons (9-5) smashed 4th placed Belfast Star (1-13) 107-77. It was a good game for Shawn Atupem who led his team to a victory with 40 points (!!!) (on 17-of-19 shooting from the field). UCC Demons' coach felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. UCC Demons maintains first place with 9-5 record. Belfast Star lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be UL Eagles (#3) in Limerick, which may be the game of the day. Belfast Star will play at home against the league's leader DCU Saints in Dublin.


UL Eagles - UCD Marian 75-68

The game between Top Four teams took place in Limerick. Third ranked host UL Eagles (8-8) defeated 3rd placed UCD Marian (6-9) 75-68. They outrebounded UCD Marian 43-26 including a 17-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. UL Eagles looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Robert Taylor (188-83, college: Rider) who scored 21 points and 7 assists. The former international center Jason Killeen (211-85, college: Augusta St., agency: JEMsports) chipped in 5 points and 20 rebounds. Taylor is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Donnie Stith (201-85, college: Tulane, agency: Gamble Sports Management) who recorded 15 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Kevin Foley (193-83) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Four UCD Marian players scored in double figures. UCD Marian's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. UL Eagles maintains third place with 8-8 record having six points less than leader UCC Demons which they share with defeated UCD Marian. Loser UCD Marian keeps the third position with nine games lost. UL Eagles will meet league's leader UCC Demons in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. UCD Marian will play against the league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
UL Eagles: R.Taylor 21+1reb+7ast, S.Kinevane 14+3reb+7ast, N.Campbell 12+2reb+2ast, M.Hall 9+2reb+4ast, R.Lynch 7+6reb, E.Quigley 7+9reb+1ast
UCD Marian: C.Meany 15+5reb+2ast, D.Stith 15+8reb+2ast, K.Foley 14+5reb+3ast, D.James 10+3reb+5ast, C.James 6+1reb, C.Finn 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 145170


Moycullen - 11890 Killester 64-58

Very important is a road loss of second ranked 11890 Killester (10-5) against fourth ranked Moycullen (4-12) on Saturday night. Visiting 11890 Killester was defeated by Moycullen in a tough game in Moycullen 58-64. Moycullen maintains fourth place with 4-12 record. Defending champion 11890 Killester keeps the second position with five games lost. Moycullen will play against league's second-placed B.Gais Neptune in Cork in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. 11890 Killester will play at home against UCD Marian in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 145171


UCC Demons - Belfast Star 107-77

The game between Top Four teams took place in Cork. First ranked host UCC Demons (9-5) smashed 4th placed Belfast Star (1-13) 107-77. UCC Demons dominated down low during the game scoring 86 of its points in the paint compared to Belfast Star's 48. They outrebounded Belfast Star 33-22 including 24 on the defensive glass. UCC Demons players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Belfast Star's players. It was a good game for American forward Shawn Atupem (200-89, college: Mt.St.Mary's) who led his team to a victory with 40 points (!!!) (on 17-of-19 shooting from the field). Guard Niall Murphy (180-86) contributed with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Five UCC Demons players scored in double figures. UCC Demons' coach felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Joshua Johnson (199-85, college: Bowie St.) answered with 32 points and 8 rebounds and the former international guard Paul Cummins (188-84, college: Lafayette) added 16 points in the effort for Belfast Star. UCC Demons maintains first place with 9-5 record. Belfast Star lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be UL Eagles (#3) in Limerick, which may be the game of the day. Belfast Star will play at home against the league's leader DCU Saints in Dublin.
Top scorers:
UCC Demons: S.Atupem 40+3reb+3ast, N.Murphy 12+6reb+4ast, N.O'Reilly 11+3reb+4ast, S.Duggan 10+5reb+1ast, S.Coughlan 10+4reb+4ast, K.Hosford 6+1ast
Belfast Star: J.Johnson 32+8reb+2ast, P.Cummins 16+4reb+2ast, S.Dawson 12+1reb+1ast, S.Summersgill 9+3reb+1ast, C.Johnston 6+1reb, F.Toner 2+1reb+1ast
gschID: 145168


B.Gais Neptune - DCU Saints 85-86

Second-ranked B.Gais Neptune (8-6) gave a tough game to first ranked DCU Saints (14-2) in Cork on Sunday. The visitors from Dublin managed to secure only one-point victory 86-85. However their fans expected easier game. DCU Saints forced 21 B.Gais Neptune turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a great evening for guard Keith Anderson (188-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals. Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) helped adding 11 points and 10 rebounds. Four DCU Saints players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American power forward Ronald Thompson (208-81, college: Morehouse) with a double-double by scoring 26 points, 20 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Gerard Noonan (180-82) scored 9 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. DCU Saints have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-2 record. B.Gais Neptune at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face Belfast Star (#4) on the road in the next round. B.Gais Neptune's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Cork UCC Demons.
Top scorers:
DCU Saints: K.Anderson 17+5reb+6ast, P.Glover 16+4reb+1ast, J.Donnelly 13+3reb+1ast, M.Provizors 11+10reb+2ast, K.Lacey 11+6reb, M.Trimmer 6+10reb+2ast
B.Gais Neptune: R.Thompson 26+20reb+5ast, P.Taylor 13+6reb+1ast, R.Downey 9+5reb+4ast, I.McLoughlin 9+3reb+1ast, G.Noonan 9+8reb+6ast, G.Walsh 7+2reb+2ast
gschID: 145169




Standings - EBS Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
North Conference
 1. DCU Saints 14-2 
 2. 11890 Killester 10-5 
 3. UCD Marian 6-9 
 4. Belfast Star 1-13 
South Conference
 1. UCC Demons 9-5 
 2. B.Gais Neptune 8-6 
 3. UL Eagles 8-8 
 4. Moycullen 4-12 


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Shawn ATUPEM
  UCC Demons
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 24.5
 1. Atupem, UCC Demons24.5 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.23.8 
 3. Enos, Moycullen23.6 
 4. Turner, 11890 K.19.3 
 5. Stith, UCD Marian19.2 
 6. Jefferson, UL Ea.17.4 
 7. Cummins, Belfast16.8 
 8. Glover, DCU Saints15.4 
 9. Noonan, B.Gais N.15.1 
 10. Provizors, DCU S.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Turner, 11890 K.19.2 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.14.4 
 3. Provizors, DCU S.12.4 
 4. Killeen, UL Eagles12.4 
 5. Enos, Moycullen11.1 
 6. Atupem, UCC Demons10.2 
 7. Stith, UCD Marian9.1 
 8. Tummon, Moycullen8.7 
 9. O''Brien, 11890 K.7.9 
 10. Glover, DCU Saints7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Gerard NOONAN
  B.Gais N.
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Noonan, B.Gais N.4.9 
 2. Kinevane, UL Eagl.4.8 
 3. Clarke, 11890 K.4.3 
 4. Coughlan, UCC D.4.3 
 5. Donnelly, DCU S.4.2 
 6. Turner, 11890 K.4.2 
 7. Madsen, 11890 K.4.2 
 8. Dowd, Moycullen4.1 
 9. Thompson, B.Gais N.3.8 
 10. Cunningham, Moycu.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Turner, 11890 K.3.8 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.3.3 
 3. McGinn, B.Gais N.2.5 
 4. Anderson, DCU S.2.4 
 5. Noonan, B.Gais N.2.3 
 6. Donnelly, DCU S.2.2 
 7. Madsen, 11890 K.2.2 
 8. Jefferson, UL Ea.2.1 
 9. Stith, UCD Marian1.9 
 10. Taylor, B.Gais N.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Turner, 11890 K.3.6 
 2. Killeen, UL Eagles2.4 
 3. Thompson, B.Gais N.2.1 
 4. Stith, UCD Marian1.8 
 5. Casey, 11890 K.1.5 
 6. Trimmer, DCU S.1.5 
 7. O''Brien, 11890 K.1.4 
 8. Enos, Moycullen1.1 
 9. Provizors, DCU S.1.0 
 10. Quigley, UL Eagles0.8 


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  ISRAEL   


Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem to sign Ramel Bradley - by David Pick
After failed attempts of getting Mike Green from Sigma Barcellona, Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem agreed the terms with 27-year old American guard Ramel Bradley (188-G-85) of Maccabi Ashdod (Premier League). While playing 12 games for Maccabi Ashdod this season he averaged 17.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.3apg and 1.5spg.

According to our source big man Jarvis Varnado is officially not practising with the team. He is expected to leave the team by Sunday.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @IAmDPick



Moses' double-double lands him National League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
22-year old forward Marshall Moses (198-F-89) put on an amazing game in the last round for Hapoel K/S and receives a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had a double-double of 43 points and 17 rebounds, while his team edged out Hod Hasharon (#7, 7-8) 95-94. Hapoel K/S is placed at 13th position in Israeli National League. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 11 games and recorded just four victories. Moses turned to be Hapoel K/S's top player in his first season with the team. Oklahoma State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Moses is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 11.2rpg) and averages solid 53.5% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jermaine Hall (196-F-80) of top-ranked Macc.B.Yaakov. He is American forward in his second season at Macc.B.Yaakov. In the last game Hall recorded impressive double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. Of course he lead Macc.B.Yaakov to another comfortable win 94-80 over the lower-ranked Hapoel Y/M (#14, 4-11) being unquestionably team leader. Of course Macc.B.Yaakov still keep the league's top spot. His team lost just two games this season, while they won 13 matches. Hall is well-known at Macc.B.Yaakov and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 23.8ppg (#3). He also registered 6.7 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Rodney Webb (200-F-83) of Ironi Ramat Gan (#12). Webb scored 20 points and grabbed sixteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Ironi Ramat Gan, leading his team to a 98-70 easy win against the higher-ranked Hapoel Afula (#4, 9-6). The chances of Ironi Ramat Gan not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 10 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Webb could try to bring Ironi Ramat Gan's a little bit higher in the standings. Webb has individually a great season in Israel. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 10.0rpg (6th best). He also has 1.8bpg and FGP: 56.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Gabe Blair (203-F-87) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 26 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Eyal Engel (190-G-85) of Elitzur Yavne - 27 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Errick McCollum (185-G-88) of Hapoel K/S - 31 points and 14 rebounds
7. Aviram Zelkovits (193-G-89) of Hapoel T-A - 31 points
8. Ramon Clemente (200-PF-85) of Kiryat Tivon - 23 points and 13 rebounds
9. Eric Traimel (201-F-88) of Ironi Nahariya - 24 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Avi Nanikashvili (187-PG-83) of Ironi K-A - 28 points and 3 rebounds

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)

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  ITALY   


Andrea Bargnani scores 36 points as Raptors defeat Suns 99-96 - by Eurobasket News
The three-pointers were silky smooth, the mid-range game was there, the engagement on the defensive end was impressive and Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) made a triumphant return to the Raptors here Tuesday night.

It couldnt have come soon enough for coach Dwane Casey and a reeling team.

Bargnani, back after a six-game injury absence, poured in a season-high 36 points as the Raptors snapped an eight-game losing streak by hanging on to beat the Phoenix Suns 99-96, their first win in the US Airways Center in eight seasons.

We needed a W to keep our confidence, to keep the ship going in the right direction, Casey said after Toronto beat Phoenix for the first time since 2004. We needed a W to reinforce what were talking about.

The return of the 7-foot Bargnani was the perfect tonic for a Raptors offence that had been stagnant in his absence. Not only did he stretch defences with his outside shooting abilities - he was 4-for-6 from three-point range - but his presence simply created space for other Raptors to operate.

He makes everything easier for everybody else, said Casey. He opens up the lane, LB (Leandro Barbosa) could get in the lane for layups, James Johnson could get in the lane and get to the offensive boards. Hes kind of a hub that everybody can play off.

And it was never more apparent than on one key Toronto possession with the Suns threatening late in the fourth quarter.

Mindful of the Raptors effectiveness at running a two-man game with Bargnani and Jose Calderon, the Suns left Calderon alone, and he drove down the lane and hit a left-handed layup while three defenders were paying close attention to Bargnani.

And on another vital possession with less than a minute to go, they ran it to perfection as Bargnani rolled to the basket, pulled up to hit a 15-footer and put Toronto up by seven with 42.5 seconds left.

Toronto also got huge nights from James Johnson (18 points,10 rebounds), Leandro Barbosa (19 points off the bench) and Calderon, who had just five points but 11 assists and calmly ran the offence.

The Suns got 21 points from Marcin Gortat and 17 points and 14 assists from the sublime Steve Nash as they dropped their third straight home game.

Nash will make you look bad if youre not exact and precise on your pick-and-roll coverage, said Casey, whose Toronto team didnt wilt in the face of a difficult first half.

I thought our guys did a good job of fighting from behind. We could have pitched a tent and called it a day there at the beginning of the game but they showed fortitude, they stuck together, stayed together.

The return of Bargnani allowed the Raptors to at least try to match the Suns high screen-roll play with Calderon and the 7-foot Roman once again working in concert.

After a predictably slow start four misses on his first five field goal attempts Bargnani caught fire and his 18-point third quarter allowed Toronto to take a 79-71 lead into the fourth.

I thought our focus coming out of the locker room was pretty sharp, coming into the third quarter, said Casey. We locked in defensively, we got some easy buckets. Again, Andrea made things happen. He had nine points at halftime, he came out being aggressive offensively and kind of set the tone.

The Raptors made another lineup move that paid off as well. Aaron Gray was inserted into the starting lineup for Amir Johnson and while his numbers werent impressive two points and five rebounds in 15 minutes - his contribution was noticed.

Talk about physicality. I thought he did a good job in the third quarter setting screens, getting everybody open and being physical on the offensive end, said Casey.

We have some situations where he sets a screen for Andrea - he did a good job of doing that.

Courtesy of www.thestar.com

Nuggets, Gallinari agree to 4-year extension for $42 million - by Eurobasket News
The deal is done - Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) has agreed to a four-year contract extension. The 23-year-old small forward will make close to $42 million in that four year span, a league source told The Denver Post.

The deal signifies Denver's dedication to building around a young nucleus, the same nucleus that was handed the keys after Denver traded Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups 13 months ago.

'It was easy to say 'Yes' to this contract,' Gallinari said at today's Nuggets shootaround. 'It's very nice because we've been playing very well. We have a lot of very good young guys, very unselfish players and I'm looking forward to play with this team this year and with a lot of the guys in the next few years.'

The 23-year-old Gallinari had a breakout game last weekend at New York - 37 points, 11 rebounds - and averages 17.4 points per game this season, a career high, as well as 5.2 rebounds. Coach George Karl previously said he thinks the Italian they call Gallo can become an all-star someday.

'Last year when we got him everyone said he was a shooter and we think he's more of a basketball player than a shooter,' Karl said at the shootaround. 'We think he's a playmaker, he can play many positions.'

Said shooting guard Arron Afflalo: 'It's well-deserved. Gallo's been playing great this year, he's been consistent in his approach to the game since his rookie season so I'm very happy for him. He's still young and only going to get better.'

Born on 8/8/88, Gallo was drafted sixth overall in 2008 by the Knicks. At 6-foot-10, he showcased good range and the ability to penetrate smartly, making him an enticing piece when Denver dealt Melo to New York.

This is the third signature signing by Denver this winter the Nuggets locked up starting power forward Nene (five years, up to $67 million) and Afflalo (five years, up to $43 million).

Taking advantage of youth, depth and coaching, the Nuggets have leapt to a 12-5 record in this lockout-condensed season, heading into tonight's game at Sacramento (6-12).

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

Standings - SerieA
SerieA Standings
 1. Montepaschi 13-4 
 2. Scavolini PS 11-6 
 3. Bennet Cantu 11-6 
 4. CS Bologna 11-6 
 5. Armani MI 10-7 
 6. Sidigas AV 10-7 
 7. Umana Venezia 9-7 
 8. Banco di Sard. 9-8 
 9. Cimberio VA 9-8 
 10. Angelico BI 9-9 
 11. Otto Caserta 8-9 
 12. Benetton TV 7-10 
 13. Acea Roma 7-11 
 14. Banca Tercas 6-11 
 15. Fabi Shoes 6-11 
 16. Vanoli CR 5-12 
 17. Novipiu CM 4-13 


Stats Leaders - SerieA
Points Per Game
 Von WAFER
  Vanoli CR
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 20.1
 1. Wafer, Vanoli CR20.1 
 2. Shakur, Novipiu CM19.2 
 3. Coleman, Angelico.18.1 
 4. Smith, Otto C.18.1 
 5. Dean, Sidigas AV17.5 
 6. Diawara, Cimberio.16.4 
 7. Hickman, Scavolin.15.9 
 8. Pullen, Angelico BI15.9 
 9. Andersen, Montepa.15.8 
 10. White, Scavolin.15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.10.6 
 2. Johnson, Sidigas9.4 
 3. Adrien, Benetton9.0 
 4. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.1 
 5. Chiotti, Novip.7.8 
 6. Smith, Otto C.7.7 
 7. Brunner, Fabi Shoes7.6 
 8. Jones, Scavolini PS6.9 
 9. Miralles, Angelico.6.8 
 10. Szewczyk, Umana6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Green, Sidigas AV6.9 
 2. Collins, Otto Case.5.9 
 3. Cook, Armani MI5.4 
 4. Diener, Banco d.4.9 
 5. Poeta, CS Bologna4.1 
 6. McIntyre, CS Bo.3.9 
 7. Shakur, Novipiu CM3.9 
 8. Stipcevic, Cimberi.3.8 
 9. Brown, Banca T.3.6 
 10. Zoroski, Fabi Sho.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Coleman, Angelico.3.2 
 2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes2.9 
 3. Hackett, Scavolin.2.6 
 4. Hosley, Banco d.2.5 
 5. Green, Sidigas AV2.5 
 6. Pullen, Angelico BI2.2 
 7. Dean, Sidigas AV2.1 
 8. Bowers, Umana V.1.9 
 9. Kangur, Cimberio.1.9 
 10. Diawara, Cimberio.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony EASLEY
  Banco d.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Easley, Banco d.2.1 
 2. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.3 
 3. Shermadini, Bennet1.1 
 4. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.1 
 5. Stevic, Novipiu CM0.8 
 6. Adrien, Benetton0.8 
 7. Lavrinovic, Montep.0.8 
 8. Green, Banca Terc.0.8 
 9. Hunter, Banco d.0.8 
 10. Johnson, Sidigas0.8 


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  JUCO   


Central Ga Tech Men's Basketball Team Will Have Female head coach against Middle Georgia this Saturday - by Arnault Desira
After Men's Head Coach (Johnny Simmons) was ejected last night during a Region XVII GCAA (NJCAA) game at Atlanta Metro College, the CGTC Cougars Atheletic Director (Rorie Bradley) has turned to his Women's Asst Coach (April Wallace) to lead the team on Saturday, January 21st at 4:00 PM vs. Middle GA College. There have only been 2 other women in the history of men's college basketball to ever have the distinction of saying that they coached men on the collegiate level. Kerri-Ann McTiernan (Kingsborough Community College-1995) and Teresa Lawrence Phillips actually coached the Tennessee State men's basketball team for one game when the regular coach had been suspended back in February of 2003.

April Wallace enters her second season as the Lady Cougars assistant basketball coach. The 2006 Georgia Tech graduate lettered with the Yellow Jacket women's basketball program. Wallace's class was ranked fifth nationally by the Georgia All Star Report. She played a key role in the success of Georgia Tech's consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. Due to an injury, she finished her basketball career as a student assistant coach where she learned crucial strategies and techniques from the Yellow Jacket coaching staff.

A native of middle Georgia, Wallace was a standout at Jones County High School where she was named the Middle Georgia Player of the Year in 2002 by The Telegraph. She finished her high school career as Jones County's career leader in points and rebounds. Coach Wallace has a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology. April was married to Cortney Wallace in August 2011.

This is an honor that shows the forward thinking of the Administration at Central Ga Technical College to allow a deserving candidate, who truly understands the game of basketball, this opportunity, regardless of sex.



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  KAZAKHSTAN   


Standings -D1
D1 Standings
 1. BC Astana 11-0 
 2. Barsy Atyrau 9-4 
 3. BK Almaty 5-5 
 4. Kaspiy Aktau 5-5 
 5. Tobol 5-9 
 6. BK Atyrau 0-12 


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  KOSOVO   


Sigal Prishtina better than Liria in friendly - by Dren Shporta

Actual champions of BKT Superliga, Sigal Prishtina, have won last night against Macedonian team Liria with close result, 71:70. The match was played in Pallati i Sporteve in Prishtina. Liria is one of the top 5 teams in Macedonian Super League. They finished the first half of the season in the fourth place.

Sigal Prishtina turned the game in their favor in the last minute of the game. Liria was heading 70:66 before Fahri Breca and Alban Veseli equalized the result. There were only 46 seconds left, and Liria couldnt finish successfully their attack. 15 seconds before the end, the newcomer, Gerald Inmam realized one free throw to create the difference of a point, 71:70 in Sigal Prishtinas favor. Liria couldnt in their last attack and the game finished with a victory of Sigal Prishtina.

Sigal Prishtinas 24 year old forward, Gerald Inman (208-F-87, college: Rutgers), was the top scorer of the night with 17 points, while the best scorer at Lirias side was Darko Radunovic with 13 points. The second part of the season in BKT Superliga of Kosovo starts next weekend and Sigal Prishtina hosts Peja in the first match.



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  LATVIA   


Standings - LBAL
LBL2 Standings
 1. BK VEF 18-1 
 2. Liepaja-2 16-1 
 3. Barons/Keizar. 16-2 
 4. Saldus 15-4 
 5. Riga 12-7 
 6. RSU 11-8 
 7. VEF Kadeti 10-7 
 8. VA 9-9 
 9. DSN 9-10 
 10. Jelgava/LLU 6-13 
 11. Cesis 6-13 
 12. Ogres 5-13 
 13. Livani 5-13 
 14. Valmiera U21 4-14 
 15. Ridzene 3-16 
 16. Gulbene 3-17 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Courtney SIMS
  VEF Riga
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 26.3
 1. Sims, VEF Riga26.3 
 2. Peiners, LU19.0 
 3. Kalve, Valmiera18.8 
 4. Mayo, Liepaja17.3 
 5. Krumins, Jelgava17.2 
 6. Lucas, Valmiera17.1 
 7. Ozols, Jurmala16.9 
 8. Young, Ventspils15.7 
 9. Mediss, Turiba15.5 
 10. Perry, VEF Riga14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Jonats, Jurmala9.3 
 2. Sims, VEF Riga9.0 
 3. Berzins, VEF Riga8.6 
 4. Willard, Ventspils8.1 
 5. Rozitis, Valmiera8.1 
 6. Dargais, LU8.0 
 7. Mednis, Turiba7.6 
 8. Nelson, Jelgava6.7 
 9. Kalve, Valmiera6.3 
 10. Andriukaitis, Lie.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Mayo, Liepaja5.3 
 2. Lucas, Valmiera4.8 
 3. Lejasmeiers, Vents.4.2 
 4. Strelnieks, Ventsp.3.7 
 5. Coders, Jurmala3.7 
 6. Janicenoks, VEF R.3.6 
 7. Perry, VEF Riga3.5 
 8. Kravcenko, Liepaja3.3 
 9. Valters, VEF Riga3.0 
 10. Gray, Ventspils3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  VEF Riga
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 3
 1. Millage, VEF Riga3.0 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.2.6 
 3. Peiners, LU2.3 
 4. Osins, LU1.9 
 5. Gray, Ventspils1.8 
 6. Kanbergs, Jelgava1.8 
 7. Perry, VEF Riga1.7 
 8. Young, Ventspils1.7 
 9. Krumins, Jelgava1.6 
 10. Timma, Liepaja1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Berzins, VEF Riga1.4 
 2. Rozitis, Valmiera1.4 
 3. Cain, VEF Riga1.0 
 4. Ozols, Jurmala0.9 
 5. Jonats, Jurmala0.8 
 6. Willard, Ventspils0.8 
 7. Sims, VEF Riga0.7 
 8. Meiers, Ventspils0.7 
 9. Gromovs, U180.7 
 10. Kavaliauskas, VEF0.7 


LBL Standing
LBL Standings
 1. Valmiera 11-6 
 2. Liepaja 9-7 
 3. Jelgava 9-8 
 4. Ventspils 8-0 
 5. LU 8-8 
 6. VEF Riga 7-1 
 7. Turiba 5-10 
 8. Jurmala 4-13 
 9. U18 0-8 


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  LEBANON   


WABA League: Mahram cruise past Moutahed - by Eurobasket News
Mahram - Moutahed 106:73

Mahram registered the opening win at WABA League Group B action. They fired past Moutahed tonight. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Moutahed and Mahram stayed evenly matched in the opening quarter. The teams finished the period knotted up at 22. The lead changed hands throughout the second period. Mahram had the last laugh in the half taking a 41:39 advantage. The Iranian team slowly started to accumulate the advantage. Mahram entered the final quarter up by 27 points 79:52. They gained the room to breathe and never looked back en route to the victory. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) scored 20 points, while Pape Sow (208-F-81, college: CS Fullerton) accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 steals for the winners. Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) answered with 17 points for Moutahed. Cruz Daniels (211-C-85, college: High Point) and Bassem Balaa (198-F/C-81) netted 11 points each in the loss.

Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 21+12 boards, Hamed Afagh 20, Pape Sow 18
Moutahed: Austin Johnson 17, Cruz Daniels 11, Bassem Balaa 11


Jonathan Heard is a newcomer at Hoops Club - by Eurobasket Center
Hoops Club strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American swingman Jonathan Heard (198-G/F-98kg-86). Heard played most recently at Torpan Pojat Helsinki (Finland). While playing 2 games for ToPo this season he averaged 8.0ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.5apg, 2.0spg and 2.0bpg. It was his third season in Finald. Last year he was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Finnish Korisliiga 2nd Team playing for Porvoon Tarmo. Heard was also the best scorer in the league in 10-11 with average 21.9ppg. Three years ago during his first season in Finland, he was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Finnish 1st Division 1st Team. Heard is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Chile and Finland.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Cory Bradford joins Al Moutahed Tripoli - by Eurobasket Center
Al Moutahed Tripoli agreed terms with 34-year old American guard Cory Bradford (191-G-78, college: Illinois). In his first game he scored 10 points. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Byblos 83-99. Bradford played most recently at An Nahl Sharjah (UAE), whom he helped to win Arab Club Championship. He is a very experienced player. Bradford played also pro basketball in Colombia, Cyprus, France, Hungary, Mexico, Qatar, UAE, Venezuela and USA. He graduated University of Illinois in 2002 and actually missed last season. It will be his tenth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

WABA League: Champville topple Duhok - by Eurobasket News
Champville - Duhok 98:91

Champville managed to eke out a tough victory over pesky Duhok at the start of WABA League campaign in Group B. The Lebanese team escaped with a 7-point win behind 30 points and 9 rebounds from Samuel Hoskin (206-F/C-79, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: De Paul).
Both teams entered the game aggressively. They exchanged baskets as Champville snatched a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) went on court in the second term helping Champville clear off to a 14-point halftime lead 50:36. But Duhok struck back in the third quarter. The Iraqi team narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 71. Champville however regained control in the final term. They spurred back in front and hung on to win the battle. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) finished with 25 points, 13 boards and 4 assists for Champville. Fadi Khatib had 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Malcolm Battles (205-F/C-79, college: N.Mexico) answered with 22 points and 16 boards. Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.) had 21 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Champville: Samuel Hoskin 30, Garnett Thompson 25+13 boards, Fadi Khatib 19
Duhok: Malcolm Battles 22+16 boards, Chamberlain Oguchi 21


Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
 1. Champville 15-0
 2. Al Riyadi 13-1
 3. Anibal 9-5
 4. Moutahed 6-9
 5. Sagesse 6-9
 6. Byblos 6-10
 7. Hoops 5-9
 8. Bejjeh 4-10
 9. Antranik 2-12


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Fadi KHATIB
  Champville
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 29.3
 1. Khatib, Champville29.3 
 2. Penigar, Byblos28.4 
 3. Spencer, Al Riyadi26.6 
 4. Williams, Byblos26.3 
 5. Ebi, Anibal25.2 
 6. Colwell, Antranik23.9 
 7. Oguchi, Hoops23.3 
 8. Youngblood, Anibal22.3 
 9. Hoskin, Champville21.8 
 10. Gray, Byblos21.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alan WIGGINS
  Sagesse
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 15
 1. Wiggins, Sagesse15.0 
 2. Jamison, Bejjeh14.6 
 3. Dearman, Bejjeh12.4 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.12.4 
 5. Penigar, Byblos12.4 
 6. Colwell, Antranik11.1 
 7. Ismail, Al Riyadi10.8 
 8. Hoskin, Champville10.5 
 9. Leather, Sagesse10.3 
 10. Hamdar, Hoops10.2 
Assists Per Game
 Ahmad ISMAIL
  Al Riyadi
  (205-F-76)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Ismail, Al Riyadi6.9 
 2. Akl, Anibal6.8 
 3. Williams, Byblos6.5 
 4. Clemons, Hoops6.3 
 5. Johnson, Moutahed6.3 
 6. Gray, Byblos6.0 
 7. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi5.9 
 8. Young, Antranik5.4 
 9. Hamilton, Hoops5.3 
 10. Khatib, Champville5.3 
Steals Per Game
 Vernon HAMILTON
  Hoops
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Hamilton, Hoops3.3 
 2. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi3.0 
 3. Youngblood, Anibal2.9 
 4. Clemons, Hoops2.8 
 5. Johnson, Moutahed2.4 
 6. Young, Antranik2.3 
 7. Estephane, Champvi.2.3 
 8. Spencer, Al Riyadi2.0 
 9. Ebi, Anibal2.0 
 10. Balaa, Moutahed1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Shelton COLWELL
  Antranik
  (202-C/F-80)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Colwell, Antranik2.2 
 2. Ebi, Anibal2.0 
 3. Hamdar, Hoops2.0 
 4. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.9 
 5. Thompson, Champvil.1.6 
 6. Crump, Sagesse1.5 
 7. Sabra, Byblos1.4 
 8. Wiggins, Sagesse1.3 
 9. Youngblood, Anibal1.2 
 10. Bou Abboud, Bejj.1.2 


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  NAIA   


Undefeated Shorter Remains Top Team in NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll - by Arnault Desira
KANSAS CITY, Mo. As the NAIAs only undefeated team remaining, Shorter (Ga.) maintained its top ranking in the fifth regular-season edition of the 2011 12 NAIA Division I Mens Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll, the NAIA announced Monday. One week after its first top billing in school history, the Hawks were the unanimous selection with 12 first-place nods and 312 points in this installment. Shorter made its No. 1 debut by handing then-No. 4 Southern Poly (Ga.) a 74-65 loss on Jan. 19. That win helped push the Hawks to 18-0 on the year.

No. 2 Robert Morris (Ill.) has won six in-a-row to improve to 19-1 overall. The Eagles leaped up one spot with 302 total points. After two-straight losses in a five-day span, Oklahoma Baptist fell one position to third with 288 points. With 279 points, No. 4 Georgetown (Ky.) vaulted up from a No. 7 ranking last week. No. 5 Southern Poly gathered 273 points after falling one spot.

No. 10 The Masters (Calif.) is one of the biggest surprise teams. The Mustangs are one of four newcomers this week, having won four out of their last six games, including a 64-60 win against then-No. 16 Westmont (Calif.) on Jan. 17. The Masters was last ranked 16th two weeks ago. Also sporting a fresh rank this week is No. 22 MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.), No. 23 Pikeville (Ky.) and No. 25 Union (Tenn.). MidAmerica Nazarene sits in the Top 25 for the first time since Oct. 26, 2009 (No. 22). Both Pikeville and Union were mentioned earlier this season.

Evangel (Mo.) (No. 17), Campbellsville (Ky.) (No. 20), Saint Xavier (Ill.) (No. 21) and Cumberland (Tenn.) (No. 23) all suffered a drop outside the Top 25 this week.

Westmont, despite the loss to The Masters, made the biggest improvement within the poll moving up four spots to No. 12. The Warriors are tied for the lead with The Masters at 6-2 in the Golden State Athletic Conference and have won eight of their last nine.

The Golden State Athletic Conference is the leader of all conferences and unaffiliated groups with four programs in the Top 25: Concordia, The Masters, Westmont and No. 16 Azusa Pacific (Calif.). The Mid-South Conference, Sooner Athletic Conference and Southern States Athletic Conference each landed a triplet of ranked teams.

The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conference/independent/unaffiliated groups. The next Division I Mens Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll will be announced on Jan. 30.



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  NBA   


Uh oh.... another Wizards - by Alex Yam
The Washington Wizards have become some what of a comedy show, on one hand they have a rather entertaining group of young and exciting players, ie John Wall, Javale McGhee , yet at 2-15, they truly are the laughing stock of the NBA, and yesterday (01-24-2012) they fired longtime NBA coach Flip Saunders, essentially blaming someone who had zero control of the situation.

If wins were predicated on bad showmanship, and mocking the game, then the Wizards might be this seasons wins leader, but sadly it is not. So they went ahead and fired the only person that they could, the Head Coach,blamed Saunders for all the teams miscues and roster disasters and left the true culprit, the GM/Ownership unchanged. How about trading some of the pieces you have and acquire some veteran leadership, to corale some of that young and often immature talent?

I guess losing becomes infectious, and players are immune to the thought, as they still get paid whether they are 15-2 or 2-15, although the latter, makes and drives fans away, something that was never a strength of the Wizards.

Tuesday's games (5) review - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte B. - New York K. 78-111
Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) had 20 points and 17 rebounds as the New York Knicks snapped a six-game losing streak with a 111-78 rout of the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday night. Chandler, a former Bobcats player, shot 9 for 10 from the field as the Knicks won despite a career-low scoring output from star Carmelo Anthony. Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) chipped in with 18 points and eight rebounds while Landry Fields added 18 points and four assists for the Knicks, who won for the first time since Jan. 11. The Knicks dominated inside the paint, outrebounding the Bobcats 53-33 while handing them their fifth straight loss. Anthony missed all seven shots from the field and finished with one point. Only once in his previous 42 games with the Knicks had Anthony failed to finish in double digits. That came on March 18, 2011, when he finished with six points. His previous career low was two points when he was with the Denver Nuggets. Kemba Walker, starting at point guard in place of D.J. Augustin, led Charlotte with 22 points but struggled early on with turnovers, seemingly bothered by the Knicks' bigger guards. Gerald Henderson and Derrick Brown each scored 15 points for the struggling Bobcats. Boris Diaw, who had come up big in his previous two games against the Knicks, had just four points on 1-for-6 shooting from the field. Anthony, who came into the game shooting just 35.4 percent from the field over his past eight games, didn't score until three minutes into the third quarter when he made a free throw after a technical foul on Charlotte's Tyrus Thomas. Anthony only played 30 minutes before being removed from the game with the Knicks leading by at least 25 points for most of the fourth quarter. The Knicks jumped out to a 52-42 halftime lead behind a near-perfect first half by Chandler, who was 6 of 6 from the field with 13 points and nine rebounds and simply outplayed Bobcats center Byron Mullens. Walker was 5 of 6 from the floor for 15 points in the first half but turned the ball over four times. The 6-foot-1 Walker seemed to be bothered by the 6-foot-5 Iman Shumpert and 6-foot-7 Landry Fields. However, the Knicks failed to take advantage of very many of Charlotte's nine first half-turnovers, regularly missing easy layups. Shumpert even missed a breakaway dunk, clanging it off the back of the rim. Still, the Knicks began to pull away in the third quarter as the Bobcats shot just 6 of 24 from the field. The Knicks were a solid 9 of 10 from the field during that same span and then expanded the lead in the fourth quarter while resting their starters, including Anthony. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - Toronto R. 96-99
Andrea Bargnani's (6'10''-F/C-85) return provided the Toronto Raptors with the lift to end two losing streaks - one that had lasted two weeks, the other eight years. Bargnani, absent for six games with a left calf strain, scored 27 of his 36 points in the second half, and the Toronto Raptors snapped an eight-game losing streak by beating Phoenix 99-96 on Tuesday night, their first win over the Suns in eight years. The Raptors had lost 14 in a row to Phoenix, last beating the Suns on Feb. 10, 2004. It was tied for the third-longest active streak of its kind in the NBA. Bargnani scored 18 in the third, one shy of his career best for a quarter, making 4 of 5 3-pointers. 'I didn't do anything different from the first quarter because I was pretty aggressive in the first quarter too, I just didn't score,' he said. 'Jose (Calderon) told me to shoot from the outside because I was just driving the ball and everybody was waiting for me. They found me open and they went in. it was all good. ' Former Suns star Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-PG-82) scored 19 and James Johnson 18 for the Raptors. Marcin Gortat had 21 points and 12 rebounds and Steve Nash had 17 points and 14 assists for the Suns. Hakim Warrick also scored 17 points. Phoenix was back from a five-game road trip that ended the previous night with a loss at Dallas. 'Obviously we were struggling for energy and I think that was the key, especially in that third quarter,' Nash said. 'They beat us on all the second-effort plays. They made a lot more of the plays, hustling for loose balls or running the floor, little things like that.' Nash said Bargnani is especially effective when the 3s start to fall for him. 'It really stretches the floor and that makes him a terrific driver because you have to get out to him so quickly,' Nash said. 'He was just too much for us.' Toronto trailed by as many as 14 early and was down 52-48 at the break. A 10-0 run put the Raptors ahead 79-69 on Barbosa's 15-footer with 30 seconds left in the third. Warrick's layup made it an eight-point margin entering the final quarter. Barbosa's running bank shot gave Toronto its biggest lead at 83-71 with 9 minutes to play. Bargnani's 14-foot runner a 93-87 advantage before the Suns managed a late threat. Jared Dudley's 3-pointer cut it to 94-90 then after an exchange of baskets, Dudley stole Rasual Butler's inbounds pass for a breakaway dunk to cut the lead to 96-94 with 23 seconds left. But Vargnani - 12 of 12 at the line for the game - sank two free throws with 22.9 seconds to go and the Suns misfired from long-range to seal the outcome. 'Andrea coming back makes everything easier for everbody else,' Toronto coach Dwane Casey said. 'He opens up the lane for L.B. for layups, James to get in the lane and get offensive boards. He is kind of the hub for everybody to play off of.' The Suns made 9 of their first 13 shots to take a 24-14 lead and were up 35-21 after Sebastian Telfair made two free throws with 9:26 left in the second quarter. Phoenix still led 52-42 on Michael Redd's 19-footer, but James Johnson scored the final 6 seconds of the half to cut the lead to 52-48 at the break. Suns backup center Robin Lopez was ejected after a run-in with referee Rodney Mott with 8:14 left in the first half. Lopez, upset with a foul call, glared at Mott as he walked to the Suns bench, brushed against the official as he walked past him, then turn around and glared again before the ref decided he'd seen enough. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Miami Heat - Cleveland C. 92-85
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) was not at his best, and a game against his former team was slipping away. Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) made sure that didn't happen. Bosh scored 17 points in the fourth quarter - the biggest final period by any Miami player this season - and finished with a game-high 35 points, carrying the Heat to a 92-85 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Bosh shot 10 for 16 and reached the 30-point mark for the fourth time this season as Miami improved to 4-1 against Cleveland since James joined the Heat. 'Whenever I play and I don't hesitate, good things happen,' Bosh said. He was all about the points down the stretch, literally and figuratively. The 17-point final quarter matched the third-best of his career, and he capped the night with a pair of finger-wags - one at one of his shots as it hovered on the rim before falling to begin a three-point play, the other at wife Adrienne after his jumper fell for an 84-76 lead and finally allowed Miami to exhale. 'I think he made the biggest adjustment with this whole situation,' James said, referring to the moves that allowed he, Bosh and Dwyane Wade - who sat out again with a sprained right ankle - to team up in July 2010. 'He's done it before.' The 35 points matched Bosh's high since joining Miami. Kyrie Irving - Cleveland's No. 1 overall draft pick and heir apparent after James as the face of the Cavs' franchise - scored 17 points on 7-for-11 shooting. Samardo Samuels made his first seven shots and finished with 15 points for the Cavs, who got an 11-point, 11-rebound night from Anderson Varejao and 10 points from Ramon Sessions. 'We kind of beat ourselves tonight,' Irving said. 'We had 22 turnovers and we lost by seven points.' Former Cleveland State star Norris Cole scored 10 for Miami, and Udonis Haslem grabbed 10 rebounds for the Heat. Miami committed 18 turnovers, leading to 22 Cleveland points, but found a way - thanks to Bosh - down the stretch. 'Finally in the last three to four minutes, the ball started the move,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. Bosh made his sixth 3-pointer of the year with 4:26 left, giving the Heat some long-awaited breathing room at 75-67. And after Irving hit a pair of free throws to get Cleveland within three, Bosh went to work again. He took a pass from James, drove the left side of the lane, got fouled and fell to the court as his shot dropped to set up a three-point play. A minute later, Bosh faked Antawn Jamison into the air and making an 18-footer for an eight-point edge, capped by that salute to his pregnant wife. Cleveland got within three points twice in the final moments after scores by Irving, but no closer. 'Stayed in the game for 48 minutes,' Cleveland coach Byron Scott said. 'And the only thing I'm disappointed in is the fact that we had 22 turnovers. That's killing our young team.' Miami improved to 7-1 this season without Wade. His status remains day-to-day. It was the fifth meeting between the Heat and Cavaliers since James made his decision to switch jerseys. James' first return to Cleveland was one of the signature moments of last season, and the other three matchups between the clubs - while nowhere near the spectacle of that first game - were accompanied by an extraordinary amount of interest and excitement. This time, Heat vs. Cavs was just another game. No huge media crush, no extra security presence, no hubbub of any kind. 'I think after a year of kind of going through it, I think it's just like any other basketball game right now,' Scott said. So the game lacked the off-the-court buzz. In fairness, it was missing any on-court buzz, too. Samuels had a grand total of four baskets in 2012 entering the game, then posted that many dunks in the first half, coming off the bench to start 5 for 5 and help Cleveland leave for the break with a 39-37 lead. Here's how offensively troubled the first half was: Cleveland lost two points during intermission. Following a lengthy review after the teams left the floor, referee Tony Brothers ruled that a basket by Jamison with about 49 seconds left came after the shot clock expired. The basket was wiped away, knotting the game at 37. Things picked up somewhat in the third, with Irving using a screen to go past James, then leaping through a maze of three Heat defenders for a layup and a 45-43 Cleveland lead. Soon, though, Miami put together its best stretch of the night - a 12-2 run, including James hitting a 3-pointer from about 30 feet as the shot clock expired, and ended up taking a less-than-secure 61-58 edge into the final 12 minutes. The Heat never trailed again. 'It'd have frustrated me a lot if we lost,' James said. 'I'm all about team. When I don't play well and we lose, I feel like I didn't do enough. But my teammates picked me up.' *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Portland TB - Memphis G. 97-84
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas) scored 23 points and Marcus Camby (6'11''-C/F-74, college: Massachusetts) grabbed a season-high 22 rebounds as the Portland Trail Blazers beat Memphis 97-84 on Tuesday night, snapping the Grizzlies' seven-game winning streak. Jamal Crawford scored 15 points, Wesley Matthews added 13 and Nicolas Batum and Raymond Felton had 10 each for Portland. O.J. Mayo had 20 ponts to lead Memphis, and Rudy Gay scored 11. Aldridge hit his first five shots and scored 14 points during the first quarter as the Blazers won consecutive games for the first time since Jan. 10. Camby was a force under the boards throughout the game, pulling down 12 rebounds during the first half. He also finished with a season-high five blocks. Portland outrebounded Memphis 50-39. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Indiana P. - Orlando M. 83-102
Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) had 24 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-83 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night. Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) had 14 points and nine rebounds and became the Magic's all-time leading scorer. He came in needing just eight points to break the record. Howard picked up his third foul early in the second quarter and sat for most of the first half. Anderson shot 8 for 14 from the field, including 5 for 7 on 3-pointers. Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert scored 16 points each and Hibbert also had 12 rebounds for the Pacers (11-5), who returned home after winning two of three on a West Coast trip. Quentin Richardson added 15 points and Glen Davis had 13 for the Magic. Orlando broke away in an 8-0 run midway through the third quarter and a 7-0 run later in the period, and extended the lead to as much as 20 points in the fourth. Howard was two points away from breaking the scoring record before he picked up his second foul and went to the bench midway through the first quarter. It was a tough stretch for Howard who turned the ball over, missed a shot and then got called for a foul. The Pacers were in the middle of a 10-0 run as Granger made two 3's and HibberT, wearing a mast to protect a broken nose, suffered Sunday against the Lakers, had the other two baskets. Howard didn't enter the game again until the start of the second quarter, but was pulled just 24 seconds into the period after he was called for his third foul. Davis scored seven points in the first half in Howard's place, but the Pacers built a 10-point lead and the Magic had a tough time regaining the lead. They did it late in the second quarter when the Magic went on a 10-0 run of their and took the lead on a 3-pointer by Anderson. Darren Collison answered Anderson's 3 with a jumper to tie the score at 41. Earl Clark scored on a dunk, then Indiana's David West tied it again on a jumper. Clark scored again, then Hibbert tied the game on a putback. The Pacers didn't regain the lead, but tied it at 45 at halftime. Howard finally became the Magic's all-time leading scorer on a dunk at the 10:05 mark in the third quarter, his eighth point of the game. The Magic went on to build a 21 lead in the fourth quarter. They led by 12 at the end of the third after Orlando went on an 8-0 run midway through the period to take a 60-54 lead. Indiana got back within four, but then the Magic went on a 7-0 run to extend the lead again. *Courtesy of www.wishtv.com



NBA-worst Wizards fire coach Flip Saunders - by Eurobasket News
The Washington Wizards, after an NBA-worst 2-15 start, fired coach Flip Saunders on Tuesday, with assistant coach Randy Wittman taking over on an interim basis.

After an 0-8 start, Washington has managed two wins in its last eight games.

'I felt like at this time, our players were not responding, and I think we needed a different voice,' Wizards president Ernie Grunfeld said. 'This doesn't change our overall plan, which always has been very transparent for us, which is to build through the draft, get salary-cap space going forward and develop our young players.

'They probably haven't developed as quickly as we'd like for them to develop. That's something we need to continue to work on.'

The Wizards are 51-130 since 2009-10, the first year of Saunders' four-year, $18 million deal. Saunders has an overall record of 638-525 (.548). Before he joined the Wizards, his winning percentage with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons was a combined .597.

Wittman, previously head coach with the Timberwolves and the Cleveland Cavaliers, will get his first test Wednesday when the 3-14 Charlotte Bobcats play at Washington. Wittman's overall NBA record is 100-207 (.326).

'I'm not the miracle-maker here,' said Wittman, who was given the job through the end of the season. 'We've got to change our outlook on how we play. Sometimes, when you have such a young team, players get a little confused, I think, when the word 'development' is used; that they're going to be able to develop just playing. Development has to happen on the practice floor.'

Saunders is the second NBA coach fired this season. The Sacramento Kings fired Paul Westphal on Jan. 5 after the team opened at 2-5. Assistant coach Keith Smart is 4-6 with the Kings since being named head coach.

Washington's poor play has been marked by bad offensive execution and half-hearted defensive effort.

The Wizards are 27th in scoring per game (88.7 points), 29th in shooting percentage (41.4%) and 29th in assists per game (16.8).

Before Sunday's Boston Celtics-Wizards game, Celtics coach Doc Rivers said Washington, at its worst, had no ball movement.

'They were king of the ball stoppers. The ball stopped every where it went,' Rivers said, ostensibly alluding to forward Andray Blatche and guards Nick Young and Jordan Crawford.

All three are shooting less than 40.2% and are second, third and fifth in shots attempted on the team.

The Wizards then were blown out 103-83 at the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday, a game in which they trailed 62-32 at halftime after the 76ers shot 65%. It was Washington's third loss in a row.

After one string of sloppy plays, Saunders took a knee in front of the scorer's table, bowed his head and rubbed his temples.

After the game, second-year point guard John Wall said: 'Whoever got the ball just took a shot. Guys are holding their heads down, and we're not fighting or competing.'

In defense of Saunders, this was not the team he agreed to coach when he took the job in April 2009. Saunders, regarded as a fine offensive mind, thought he would have a veteran team led by guards Gilbert Arenas, DeShawn Stevenson and Josh Howard, forwards Antawn Jamison, Caron Butler and Mike Miller and center Brendan Haywood a team capable of making the playoffs.

But the season turned dark when Arenas and reserve guard Javaris Crittenton brought guns into the locker room at Verizon Center in late December 2009 over a gambling dispute stemming from an incident on a team flight. Both players were fined and suspended and forced the Wizards into a rebuilding effort with young players, who have not responded to Saunders, best known for working well with veteran players.

'Developmental things were important for us, and we want to see improvement as we go along, and I don't if the players were responding the way we thought they should have been in the first quarter of the season,' Grunfeld said.

The Wizards took guard John Wall with the No. 1 pick in the 2010 draft, and he has shown signs he can be a dynamic point guard in the NBA. But there isn't enough talent or experience around him yet to make it work on the court.

Washington sent Arenas to the Orlando Magic for forward Rashard Lewis in December 2010, purging the remnants of the gun incident.

The fresh start for Arenas and the Wizards have yet to work for either party. The Magic used the new amnesty clause in the new labor contract on Arenas, and he is out the league, still getting paid and playing high-level rec league basketball in the Orlando area.

Wittman promised a change of style offensively. He wants to utilize Washington's athleticism and length and increase tempo, relying a little less on methodical half-court sets that are staples of Saunders' playbook.

Wittman also wants more from second-year point guard John Wall, who has played very well recently but has not provided the kind of play expected after a promising rookie season.

'John has to take what he has and not just think it's given to him,' Wittman, the former Indiana University standout said. 'He's a talented player I think I need to coach. He has to be willing to be coached, and if he does that, that's where good players become great players.

'I played with one of the best in Isiah Thomas, one of the best, and he was one of the best because he was one of the toughest and he was the one Chuck Daly or Bobby Knight was on constantly.'

Grunfeld has hired and fired two coaches since he took over in 2003 Eddie Jordan and Saunders. Ed Tapscott was the interim coach for 71 games in 2008-09 following Jordan's firing after a 1-10 start.

This is the first major shakeup for the Wizards since Ted Leonsis bought a majority ownership of the franchise from the family of the late Abe Pollin in March 2010. Leonsis also owns the NHL's Washington Capitals and has shown great patience with his general manager, George McPhee, who has been in his role since 1997. The Capitals have had five coaches since.

It remains to be seen if Leonsis will have the same patience with Grunfeld, a longtime NBA executive in the final year of his contract. He isn't concerned about his job right now.

'I'm not really worried about that part of it,' he said. 'I'm just trying to do the best job every single day. We've had a plan, we stuck to the plan.'

Grunfeld said the coaching change was his decision, although he got approval from Leonsis, whose NHL team fired coach Bruce Boudreau in November.

'Any time you rebuild, you have to go through some tough times, and that's what we're going through now,' Grunfeld said. 'We're trying to build a foundation right now.'

The rebuilding will continue. The Wizards have 10 players with five years or less NBA experience and are headed for a top pick in the 2012 draft, expected to be loaded with several college players making a case for the No. 1 pick.

'As we've said before, we think our future looks really bright because we do a have a lot of young players,' Grunfeld said. 'We'll see how they turn out. They'll tell us what to do by how they improve as we move forward. But we also do have a lot of flexibility moving forward and we're going to be able to do some good things.'

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Deng 'week-to-week' with torn wrist ligament - by Eurobasket News
Changing the official prognosis from 'day-to-day' to 'week-to-week,' Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau confirmed Tuesday that Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) suffered a torn ligament in his left wrist.

'He's going to be out for a while,' Thibodeau said. 'It's a pain tolerance thing.'

As reported in Tuesday's Tribune, Thibodeau said Deng plans to avoid surgery and play through the pain eventually. Thibodeau said Deng even did some dribbling with his left hand and shooting drills on Monday, though Deng disputed that.

'I'll be fine,' Deng said afterward. 'Definitely disappointed. I gotta get the pain level down.'

Deng suffered the injury on Saturday night.

'When it happened, I knew it was something serious,' Deng said.

Asked why he is not opting for surgery now, which he admitted is a possibility later, Deng pointed to the Bulls' title chances.

'I really feel like we have a very good chance of doing something special,' Deng said. 'I feel that without the surgery I will be fine. I just know what I can and cant do with it. I think I will be very effective out there. There will be days where its sore. Were going to try to control how sore it gets. Everybodys body responds differently. Im very confident Ill be able to handle it.'

Lakers star Kobe Bryant opened the season playing through a torn ligament in his right wrist. Deng's rookie season ended and he missed the 2005 playoff run when he opted for surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right wrist. Deng said this injury is the same and he confirmed a Tribune report that Dr. Susan Craig-Scott, who performed that 2005 surgery, is involved in the process.

Deng played high school basketball with the son of Craig-Scott, whose husband is the Knicks' former team physician.

'This time around, Im familiar with it,' Deng said. 'I know how it feels pain-wise. Just trying to get it down to a certain level where I can play again. Im really confident I will be out there hopefully soon.'

Deng said he is confident he will have full range of motion once the pain subsides enough for him to test the wrist.

'I should,' he said. 'I dont think I could damage it any further. Its really about controlling the pain.'

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

NBA approves offer to Eric Gordon - by Eurobasket News
The New Orleans Hornets have made guard Eric Gordon (6'4''-G-88, college: Indiana) a four-year contract extension after receiving authorization from the NBA, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Gordon and the Hornets have until the end of Wednesday to reach a contract extension or he will become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.

Gordon had told Yahoo! Sports on Monday that he was waiting to learn whether NBA commissioner David Stern would grant him a contract extension before the deadline. Gordon said he was informed by Hornets general manager Dell Demps that it was up to Stern to decide whether to extend an offer. The NBA owns the Hornets.

In terms of my contract extension, Dell Demps indicated that its out of his control and NBA commissioner David Stern has the last determination on the contract extension, said Gordon, who will be a restricted free agent this summer if he doesnt sign an extension.

Gordon, center Chris Kaman, forward Al-Farouq Aminu and the Minnesota Timberwolves 2012 first-round pick were acquired by the Hornets in the trade that sent Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers last month. The NBA gave approval to that trade after previously vetoing a deal that would have sent Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers. Stern has publicly expressed optimism that a Louisiana-based owner will buy the Hornets by midyear.

[ Also: NBA mascot breaks backboard on dunk, forces game to move ]

Gordon has played in only two games for the Hornets because of a bruised right knee. He averaged 21 points in the two games. Gordon said he was evaluated by a team-appointed doctor in New York on Monday, and was told his right knee had no structural damage. The doctor, Gordon said, recommended he return to basketball activities in three weeks.

The doctor said my knee will be 100 percent sound with rest, Gordon said.

Gordon, 23, hasnt been in New Orleans long, but is enthusiastic about the opportunity to play under Demps and coach Monty Williams.

I just hope a deal gets done before the deadline, Gordon said.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports

Mark Cuban not worried about Dirk - by Eurobasket News
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has no concerns about the long-term health of Dirk Nowitzki's (6'11''-F-78) right knee and suggested the 7-footer could miss more than four games if necessary -- and that other players could be held out of games as this season's compacted 66-game schedule unfolds.

Mavs coach Rick Carlisle on Saturday announced the unusual step of holding the reigning NBA Finals MVP out of four games. The move is less about resting Nowitzki's sore right knee and more about putting him through a training-camp like week of workouts designed to strengthen his knee and his overall conditioning.

'It's not about his knee. His knee wasn't feeling well, but that's a symptom of everything else,' Cuban said prior to Monday's game with the Phoenix Suns, the second of four games Nowitzki is expected to miss. 'So, it's not like there's some problem. Even if it was his head, we would still do the exact same thing.

'There's nothing specifically wrong. Dirk has a process to get ready. You mess with the process; he just didn't feel right,' Cuban said. 'It's not just Dirk, it's other guys, too. It's a first for us in dealing with a lockout.'

Depending upon the progress he makes during the week, Nowitzki could be held out longer. He missed nine games last season after spraining the same knee and the Mavs went 2-7 in his absence.

They won their first game without him this season on Saturday, holding off a late charge by the New Orleans Hornets.

Carlisle said Nowitzki went through two workouts Monday and will be doing multiple workouts most days with 'strategic recovery periods' in between.

'We'll see what's what after four games,' Carlisle said. 'If he's not ready after four games, then we may extend this thing.'

Nowitzki said a combination of the championship run, followed by his playing for Germany in the Olympic qualifying tournament, burned him out on basketball and threw off his normally regimented training program. He's averaging a team-high 17.5 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, marks well below his career averages.

Nowitzki said he didn't leave enough time to resume his workouts properly once the NBA and its players agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement over Thanksgiving weekend, scheduled the start of training camps on Dec. 9 and the start of a rapid-fire regular season three weeks later on Christmas Day.

Dallas played its first 14 games in 23 days, including a stretch of six games in eight nights, quicker than any team other than the Los Angeles Lakers.

If Nowitzki returns after four games, he will come back Sunday for the last of a four-game homestand against the San Antonio Spurs.

Already, point guard Jason Kidd has been sidelined four games with back spasms. Carlisle said Kidd probably could have returned after three games, but the team was being cautious this early in the season.

Cuban has repeatedly said that the goal for his team is simply to make the playoffs with relative health. That, Cuban said, could lead to other players on the league's oldest team taking time off.

'He's probably not going to be the last player we sit for days,' Cuban said. 'We'll see how everybody feels. I told you guys this is going to be more like a baseball season. We're going to rest guys.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Agent: Fabricio Oberto, Bulls not close to deal - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Bulls have been looking for a reserve big man ever since veteran center Kurt Thomas signed with the Portland Trail Blazers early in training camp. Many have believed that the team's search has intensified because of left ankle injuries both Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson suffered in Friday night's 114-75 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

While the free-agent market isn't quite filled with appealing options, Chicago has been linked to big men such as former Bull Chris Richards, Joel Pryzbilla and Rasheed Wallace. Pryzbilla and Wallace are currently out of the league but each player is reportedly planning to make a comeback. Although, Bulls general manager Gar Forman has repeatedly said management will be patient in its search for more size.

On Tuesday, La Manana de Cordoba, an Argentine website, reported that the Bulls offered a one-year contract to retired center Fabricio Oberto (6'10''-C-75). The 36-year-old averaged 3.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in his six-year NBA career, playing for the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards and, most recently, Portland Trail Blazers. He was the Spurs' starting center in their 2007 championship season.

According to the report, if the Bulls signed Oberto, the 6-foot-10 center would be Noah's primary backup. But coach Tom Thibodeau's bunch is very confident in the man who currently plays behind Noah, Omer Asik, who is averaging 4.1 points and six rebounds in 18 minutes per game this season, which is a main reason why the front office did not match the two-year deal that Thomas received from the Blazers.

'I have a very important proposal from Chicago Bulls. But now I am focused to working out and be ready for London [Olympics] 2012. So far, the NBA is a bit far,' Oberto said, according to the website.

However, Oberto's Chicago-based agent, Herb Rudoy, told me that the reports stating Oberto and the Bulls are close to a deal and that both parties are interested in each other do not carry much weight.

'[There is] no truth to this,' Rudoy wrote in an email exchange Tuesday afternoon, when asked about the rumors involving Oberto and the Bulls.

Given the fact that Oberto has winning experience at both the NBA and international level, he would be a sound acquisition by the Bulls. Still, nothing is imminent and the Bulls appear to be in solid shape in the frontcourt.

Noah had one of his best performances of the season in Monday night's 110-95 win over the New Jersey Nets, dropping a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Asik had 10 points and has scored in double figures in two of his last four contests. Even Brian Scalabrine has performed well while playing a combined 28 minutes the past two games in place of Gibson, who could return on Friday night against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Courtesy of www.chicagonow.com

Dwight Howard becomes Orlando Magic's all-time NBA top scorer - by Eurobasket News
Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) became Orlando's all-time leading scorer, delivering 14 points in the Magic's 102-83 victory over the Indiana Pacers.

Howard also had nine rebounds in his 25 minutes on court as the Magic recovered from Monday's embarrassing loss to the Boston Celtics in which they set a club low for points and field goal percentage.

Howard was limited by foul trouble, but Ryan Anderson stepped up to score a game-high 24 points with eight rebounds for Orlando, who have won seven of their past nine games.

Howard now has 10,657 points, while Nick Anderson dropped to second on the club's all-time list with 10,650.

Howard, who overtook Anderson with a big dunk in the third quarter, said he was pleased to get the record, but even happier that his team came back to win convincingly after the big loss to Boston.

'We just stayed together,'' he said.

'We got a good win against a good team. Indiana hadn't lost at home and had been playing great basketball all year.

'So it feels good to get a good win and I'm proud of my team.''

In Miami, Chris Bosh scored 17 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter to help the Heat to an unconvincing victory over struggling Cleveland.

Bosh made 10 of 16 shots and equalled his highest points total since joining the Heat last year.

The Heat's LeBron James added 18 against his old team.

Kyrie Irving - Cleveland's No.1 overall draft pick last year - scored 17 points.

The New York Knicks ended a six-game losing slide with a 111-78 away win over Charlotte.

Tyson Chandler had 20 points and 17 rebounds for the Knicks against his former team, shooting nine from 10 from the field.

Amar'e Stoudemire chipped in with 18 points and eight rebounds for the Knicks, who dominated inside the key, outrebounding the Bobcats 53-33.

Kemba Walker, starting at point guard in place of D.J. Augustin, led Charlotte with 22 points.

Courtesy of www.perthnow.com.au

Hornets pick up options on Henry, Vasquez - by Eurobasket News
The New Orleans Hornets on Tuesday exercised the 2012-13 club options on guards Xavier Henry (6'6''-G-91, college: Kansas) and Greivis Vasquez (6'6''-PG-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Maryland).

Henry has yet to appear in a game this season because of an ankle sprain. He averaged 4.3 points in 38 games as a rookie last season with Memphis.

The Kansas product was acquired by the Hornets on January 4 as part of a three-team trade involving the Grizzlies and 76ers.

Vasquez is averaging 5.6 points, 3.1 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 17 games with the Hornets this year. He averaged 3.6 points in 70 games with the Grizzlies in 2010-11.

The former Maryland standout was dealt to New Orleans in December.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Kevin Love to sign four-year contract extension today - by Eurobasket News
Timberwolves all-star Kevin Love (6'10''-C-88, college: UCLA), facing the prospect of becoming a restricted free agent after the season, is expected to sign a four-year, $62 million contract extension today, according to a person with close knowledge of the situation.

Love, 23, is in Dallas with the Wolves (7-10) for tonight's game against the Mavericks. NBA teams have until 11 p.m. CST tonight to sign contract extensions with players selected in the 2008 draft.

Love, the No. 5 overall pick in 2008, will be the third player in that draft to sign an extension before the deadline. Chicago guard Derrick Rose, the No. 1 pick in 2008, signed a five-year extension three weeks ago worth a reported $95 million. Oklahoma City guard Russell Westbrook, the No. 4 pick, agreed last week to a five-year deal for a reported $78 million to $80 million.

Wolves president of basketball operations David Kahn and team lawyers accompanied the team to Dallas on Tuesday afternoon to complete paperwork on the contract, the source said. The contract must be signed by all parties and submitted to the league office before the deadline to make the deal official.

Before the team left for Dallas, Wolves coach Rick Adelman was hopeful a deal would be reached so Love 'can go out and just play.'

'It will help Kevin to have all this over with,' Adelman said. 'It has to be wearing on him. He's really been doing a good job of staying focused.'

Love, who is earning $4.6 million this season, had a season-high 39 points and 12 rebounds in the Wolves' loss to Houston on Monday night at Target Center. The fourth-year veteran is averaging 24.9 points and 13.9 rebounds and leads the NBA with 16 double-doubles.
Love declined to talk with reporters after Tuesday's practice. After Monday's shootaround practice, he showed signs of mild frustration while talking with reporters. With a basketball in his right hand, he pointed to it as he emphasized to reporters that he 'only wanted to talk about basketball.'

Love had made several references last week that he preferred to get the extension done before the deadline to keep his contract situation from lingering the rest of the season.

Wolves owner Glen Taylor and Love's agent Jeff Schwartz had been discussing a five-year extension worth $80 million, the maximum contract allowed under terms of the new collective bargaining agreement, but Taylor rejected that proposal. Taylor's preference for a four-year deal for Love could help the club offer long-term commitments to rookies Ricky Rubio and Derrick Williams.

Had Love and the Wolves not agreed to an extension, he would have become a restricted free agent after the season, but the Wolves would have had the right to match any offer.
Another option for Love would have been to play out his contract with the Wolves, earning $6.1 million in 2012-13, and become an unrestricted free agent, putting himself on the market as LeBron James did in 2010 and evaluate the best offers.

'This organization needs Kevin...and just about every organization wants him,' Wolves forward Michael Beasley said of Love after Tuesday's practice. 'He'll be straight, whether he signs it tomorrow or goes into free agency. He's mentally tough. He'll always go out and give it what he's got.'

Beasley making progress

Beasley, recovering from a right midfoot sprain, practiced with the team Tuesday for the first time since he was injured Jan. 6 against Cleveland.

Beasley said he had no pain in his foot and was encouraged by the workout.

'I pretty much did everything we were doing today except rebound,' he said. 'We didn't have to rebound much because we were doing a lot of drills.'

Beasley did not make the trip to Dallas. He has missed the past 10 games.

Injury update

The Wolves, who had only nine players available for Monday's game against Houston, hope to have 10 if Wes Johnson has recovered from flu symptons.

Johnson missed Monday's game but traveled with the team to Dallas. Adelman said he won't know until later today if Johnson, who grew up in the Dallas area, will play tonight.

Adelman said Luke Ridnour (sore knee) and Darko Milicic (hip) did not practice Tuesday but are expected to play.

Guard J.J. Barea (hamstring) will not play but traveled with the team to participate in the Mavericks' pregame ring ceremony. Barea will join Mavericks players to receive their rings for winning last season's NBA championship.

Courtesy of www.twincities.com

Nuggets, Gallinari agree to 4-year extension for $42 million - by Eurobasket News
The deal is done - Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) has agreed to a four-year contract extension. The 23-year-old small forward will make close to $42 million in that four year span, a league source told The Denver Post.

The deal signifies Denver's dedication to building around a young nucleus, the same nucleus that was handed the keys after Denver traded Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups 13 months ago.

'It was easy to say 'Yes' to this contract,' Gallinari said at today's Nuggets shootaround. 'It's very nice because we've been playing very well. We have a lot of very good young guys, very unselfish players and I'm looking forward to play with this team this year and with a lot of the guys in the next few years.'

The 23-year-old Gallinari had a breakout game last weekend at New York - 37 points, 11 rebounds - and averages 17.4 points per game this season, a career high, as well as 5.2 rebounds. Coach George Karl previously said he thinks the Italian they call Gallo can become an all-star someday.

'Last year when we got him everyone said he was a shooter and we think he's more of a basketball player than a shooter,' Karl said at the shootaround. 'We think he's a playmaker, he can play many positions.'

Said shooting guard Arron Afflalo: 'It's well-deserved. Gallo's been playing great this year, he's been consistent in his approach to the game since his rookie season so I'm very happy for him. He's still young and only going to get better.'

Born on 8/8/88, Gallo was drafted sixth overall in 2008 by the Knicks. At 6-foot-10, he showcased good range and the ability to penetrate smartly, making him an enticing piece when Denver dealt Melo to New York.

This is the third signature signing by Denver this winter the Nuggets locked up starting power forward Nene (five years, up to $67 million) and Afflalo (five years, up to $43 million).

Taking advantage of youth, depth and coaching, the Nuggets have leapt to a 12-5 record in this lockout-condensed season, heading into tonight's game at Sacramento (6-12).

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 30.5
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers30.5 
 2. James, Miami Heat28.9 
 3. Durant, Oklah.Ci.25.7 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.24.9 
 5. Anthony, New Y.24.1 
 6. Bargnani, Toron.23.4 
 7. Ellis, Golde S.23.1 
 8. Aldridge, Portland.22.7 
 9. Bosh, Miami Heat21.4 
 10. Griffin, LA Clipp.21.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Howard, Orlando M.15.6 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.9 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers13.2 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.11.5 
 5. Varejao, Clevelan.10.9 
 6. Cousins, Sacramen.10.8 
 7. Lee, Golde S.10.7 
 8. Humphries, New J.10.3 
 9. Gasol, Memphis G.10.2 
 10. Hibbert, Indiana10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.4 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.9.4 
 3. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 4. Lowry, Houston R.8.7 
 5. Rose, Chicago B.8.6 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.5 
 7. Williams, New J.8.4 
 8. Paul, LA Clippers8.4 
 9. Parker, San A.8.1 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.7.9 
Steals Per Game
 Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Conley, Memphis G.2.8 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers2.8 
 3. Shumpert, New Y.2.5 
 4. Rubio, Minnesot.2.5 
 5. James, Miami Heat2.1 
 6. Teague, Atlanta H.2.1 
 7. Lowry, Houston R.2.1 
 8. Wade, Miami Heat2.0 
 9. Iguodala, Philadel.2.0 
 10. Allen, Memphis G.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 DeAndre JORDAN
  LA Clippers
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 3
 1. Jordan, LA Clippers3.0 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.9 
 3. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.6 
 4. Gasol, Memphis G.2.4 
 5. Howard, Orlando M.2.2 
 6. Dalembert, Houst.2.0 
 7. Bogut, Milwauke.1.9 
 8. Bynum, LA Lakers1.8 
 9. Smith, Atlanta H.1.8 
 10. Gortat, Phoenix1.7 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Philadelph.76 12-5 
 2. Boston C. 7-9 
 3. New York K. 7-10 
 4. New Jersey N. 5-13 
 5. Toronto R. 5-13 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 16-3 
 2. Indiana P. 11-5 
 3. Cleveland C. 6-10 
 4. Milwaukee B. 6-10 
 5. Detroit P. 4-14 
Southeast Div.
 1. Atlanta H. 13-5 
 2. Miami Heat 12-5 
 3. Orlando M. 12-5 
 4. Charlotte B. 3-15 
 5. Washington W. 2-15 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 14-3 
 2. Denver N. 12-5 
 3. Portland TB 11-7 
 4. Utah Jazz 10-5 
 5. Minnesota T. 7-10 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 10-8 
 2. LA Clippers 9-5 
 3. Phoenix Suns 6-11 
 4. Sacramento K. 6-12 
 5. Golde State W. 5-11 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 11-7 
 2. Dallas M. 11-7 
 3. Memphis G. 10-7 
 4. Houston R. 10-7 
 5. N.Orleans H. 3-14 


Lakers send Derrick Caracter to D-Fenders - by Eurobasket News
After his surgically repaired left knee kept him sidelined for the past 43 days, Lakers forward Derrick Caracter (6'9''-F-88, college: UTEP) will finally return to the court.

Just not in a Lakers' uniform.

The Lakers assigned him to their Developmeant League affiliate, the D-Fenders, in time to appear in Thursday's game against the Bakersfield Jam. The Lakers sent rookie guard Andrew Goudelock on a D-League assignment during training camp, but Caracter's appearance marks the Lakers' first assignment during the regular season.

Caracter, who suffered the injury in the fourth day of training camp on Dec. 12, played a pretty modest role last season, averaging only two points in 5.2 minutes per game in 41 contests. He then had arthroscopic surgery two days later.

Although the Lakers' backcourt hardly has provided much, Caracter's absence has meant little. Aside from his limited production last season, the Lakers' frontcourt already features Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and reserves, Josh McRoberts and Troy Murphy. Meanwhile, the Lakers have relied heavily too much on rookie guards Darius Morris and Andrew Goudelock because they remain depleted in the backcourt.

Caracter has already made two separate trips to the D-League last season, averaging 8.7 points and six rebounds in 19.7 minutes through three regular-season games with Bakersfield. He also averaged seven points, 10 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 21.5 minutes per game in two postseason appearances.

Courtesy of http://lakersblog.latimes.com

*****************************************************
  NBLCANADA   


Lightning coach suspended for Rainmen incident - by Eurobasket News
London Lightning coach Michael Ray Richardson has been suspended for one game for comments directed at Halifax Rainmen bench boss Josep Claros during a contest last week in London.

John Kennedy, commissioner of the National Basketball League of Canada, was tight-lipped Tuesday about the suspension, saying only that it involved a verbal incident that happened during the first half of the Jan. 19 game and was 'behaviour that was detrimental to the league.'

Bailey Williams, the NBLs public relations director, confirmed later in an email message that Richardsons comments had been aimed at Claros, the first-year Rainmen coach from Spain.

'The National Basketball League of Canada looks to establish and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and good sportsmanship both on and off the court,' Kennedy said in a release.

'Whenever theres an issue in this regard, we review and verify the incident, then move forward appropriately addressing the situation both internally and with our member teams, which weve done here.'

He said in an interview that he based his decision on input from the officials who worked the game, which London won 111-94 in front of 3,224 fans at the John Labatt Centre.

Richardson said Tuesday that he was surprised by the disciplinary action and the team intends to file an appeal.

'You know how coaches go back and forth,' he told London Free Press reporter Steve Green. 'Its just a big misunderstanding.'

If the suspension is upheld, hell serve it on Feb. 5 when London hosts the Oshawa Power. The Lightning are in Halifax on Friday night to play the Rainmen.

Halifax owner Andre Levingston declined to comment about the incident and Claros could not be reached.

In its coverage of last weeks tilt, the London Free Press reported that 'Richardson was trying to get under everyones skin,' including Claross.

'Part of the game is getting into their minds,' Richardson said after the game. 'When you got their minds, you got their game.'

Courtesy of http://thechronicleherald.ca

Power signs Rick Bodiford and releases Andrew Francis - by Eurobasket News
The Oshawa Power have acquired guard-forward Rick Bodiford (6'4''-G-87, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Indiana SE) and released Andrew Francis (6'8''-F-85, college: UTSA).

Bodiford is a 6'5' 200 lb wing and hails from Louisville, Kentucky. Playing in 17 games for the Quebec Kebs, he comes in averaging 5.6 points per game with a season high of 23 points against the Power on December 30, 2011. Bodiford played collegiate ball at Indiana University Southeast of the NAIA and worked out with the Indiana Pacers of the NBA in the summer of 2011.

The Power organization is very pleased to bring Bodiford and on board. He possesses strong ball handling, shooting, strength and athleticism, just in time for the Durham Region team's playoff push.

'We definitely wish Andrew Francis all the best,' said Gary Durrant, President of Basketball Operations. 'Bodiford will add toughness on the wing. He's a hard-nosed player who really wanted the opportunity to play for the Oshawa Power.'

The next Power home game is January 26, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. against the Saint John Mill Rats.

Power Glance

Record: 8-17

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


Top 25 - Men
TOP25 Standings
 1. Kentucky 5-0 (19-1) 
 2. Missouri 4-1 (17-1) 
 3. Syracuse 6-1 (18-1) 
 4. Ohio St. 5-2 (17-3) 
 5. Kansas 6-0 (16-3) 
 6. Baylor 5-1 (18-1) 
 7. N.Carolina 3-1 (14-1) 
 8. Duke 4-1 (14-2) 
 9. Georgetown 5-2 (17-2) 
 10. Michigan St. 5-1 (17-3) 
 11. Murray St. 8-0 (20-0) 
 12. UNLV 2-1 (18-3) 
 13. San Diego St. 4-0 (18-2) 
 14. Florida 3-1 (15-4) 
 15. Creighton 8-1 (18-2) 
 16. Indiana 4-3 (16-3) 
 17. Marquette 4-2 (14-4) 
 18. Mississippi St. 3-2 (16-4) 
 19. Virginia 2-1 (14-2) 
 20. Michigan 4-2 (15-5) 
 21. St.Mary's, CA 7-0 (18-2) 
 22. Kansas St. 3-3 (13-4) 
 23. Florida St. 3-1 (12-6) 
 24. Connecticut 4-3 (14-5) 
 25. Wisconsin 4-3 (15-5) 


Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Darrion PELLUM
  Hampton
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Pellum, Hampton18.3 
 2. Stevens, Florida16.6 
 3. Riley, S.Caroli.16.5 
 4. Gallo, Coppin St.16.4 
 5. Clement, N.C.Cent.15.9 
 6. O''Quinn, Norfolk15.7 
 7. Sutton, N.C.Central15.6 
 8. Andrews, Howard15.3 
 9. Tate, Delaware St.15.2 
 10. Willis, N.C.Cent.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kyle O''QUINN
  Norfolk .
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. O''Quinn, Norfolk10.2 
 2. Stevens, Florida9.3 
 3. Bruce, Hampton8.7 
 4. Spencer, Md-E S.8.3 
 5. Thompson, Morgan8.2 
 6. Williams, Coppin S.7.8 
 7. Louis, Savannah S.7.8 
 8. Sutton, N.C.Central7.6 
 9. Oliver, Delaware S.7.4 
 10. Sanders, S.Caroli.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Emanuel CHAPMAN
  N.C.Cent.
  (185-G-91)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Chapman, N.C.Cent.6.1 
 2. Threatt, Delaware.5.7 
 3. Blackmon, Savanna.5.0 
 4. Tuitt, Hampton4.6 
 5. Toombs, S.Caroli.4.2 
 6. Gallo, Coppin St.3.9 
 7. Hill, N..3.8 
 8. Ellis, Coppin St.3.7 
 9. Willis, N.C.Cent.3.2 
 10. Woods, Md-E Shore3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jay THREATT
  Delaware.
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Threatt, Delaware.2.8 
 2. Stevens, Florida2.2 
 3. Sutton, N.C.Central2.2 
 4. Woods, Md-E Shore1.8 
 5. Powell, N.Car.1.8 
 6. Willis, N.C.Cent.1.6 
 7. Tolson, Hampton1.6 
 8. Jackson, Morgan S.1.6 
 9. Gallo, Coppin St.1.5 
 10. Andrews, Howard1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Kendall GRAY
  Delaware St.
  (208-C-92)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Gray, Delaware St.3.2 
 2. O''Quinn, Norfolk2.8 
 3. Oliver, Delaware S.2.2 
 4. Agbelese, Hampton2.1 
 5. Chiles, Morgan St.2.0 
 6. Sanders, S.Caroli.1.9 
 7. Smith, Savannah.1.8 
 8. Stevens, Florida1.7 
 9. Crowder, Florida1.6 
 10. Thompson, Morgan1.4 


NetScouts Basketball National Players of the Week - by Carl Berman
NetScouts Basketball has selected High Point's center Cheyenne Parker as our Women's National Player of the Week for games ending the week of Sunday, Jan. 22.

Parker had an amazing game in the Panthers 80-65 win over Coastal Carolina. Parker had 14 points, 22 rebounds, 2 assists, 8 blocks and a steal all while shooting 5-of-7 (71%) from the field. The 64 sophomore from Queens, NY grabbed 13 offensive rebounds in High Points only game of the week. The Panthers are undefeated in Big South Conference play as Parker is averaging 13.7 points and 12.3 rebounds for the season.

Kansas guard Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90) is our Men's National Player of the Week. Taylor, a 63 senior helped lead the Jayhawks to an 18-point win (92-74) over then-#3 Baylor to start the week. Taylor continues to quietly lead the Jayhawks (16-3, 6-0) through a brutal schedule. He scored 28 and dished out 6 assists in the Baylor game. He followed that up with a 22 point, 5 rebound, 4 assist clinic in a 69-66 win at Texas. Taylor averaged 25 points and 5 assists while shooting 58.3% (7-of-12) from behind the arc and 63% (17-of-27) from the field for the week.

Vanderbilt senior forward Jeffery Taylor is our International Player of the Week. The 67 native of Norrkoping, Sweden averaged 18 points, 5.5 rebounds and two assists in a 1-1 week for the Commodores. Taylor scored 17 points and grabbed six rebounds in a 69-59 win over Alabama and tallied 19 points in a tough 78-77 loss against Mississippi State. For the week, Taylor shot 54.5% (12-of-22) from the field and 55.5% from long distance (5-of-9).

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

No. 20 Michigan beats Purdue 66-64 - by Eurobasket News
Tim Hardaway Jr. (6'5''-G-92) scored 19 points to help No. 20 Michigan defeat Purdue 66-64 on Tuesday night.

Jordan Morgan (6'8''-F-91) had 12 points and seven rebounds, Stu Douglass (6'3''-G-90) scored 12 points and Evan Smotrycz added 10 points for the Wolverines (16-5, 6-2), who entered the game in a tie for first place in the Big Ten.

Michigan shot 54 percent from the field and outrebounded the Boilermakers 30-23.

Lewis Jackson (5'9''-PG-89) scored 17 points and Robbie Hummel added 16 for the Boilermakers (14-7, 4-4). Hummel missed a 3-pointer that could have given the Boilermakers the lead in the final seconds.

Purdue, which was coming off an 83-58 loss to No. 10 Michigan State, has lost two of its past three at home after a 26-game home winning streak.

Michigan led 65-64 and had the ball in the final minute, but Jackson stole the ball from Morgan. Purdue's Ryne Smith missed a 3-pointer from the right corner but came up with the ball in a scramble. Hummel missed a 3-pointer from the top of the key, and Michigan got the rebound. The Wolverines ran the clock down to 3.8 seconds before the Boilermakers fouled Smotrycz. He made the second of two free throws, and Jackson's heave from near midcourt bounced off the backboard.

Hummel didn't take a shot for more than 12 minutes at the start of the game, but he got hot at the end of the first half. He scored Purdue's last seven points before the break to cut the Wolverines' lead to 30-28.

Michigan started strong in the second half. Baskets by Hardaway and Zack Novak pushed the lead to 39-31 with 17:01 to play.

Michigan led by 10 points before the Boilermakers rallied. A 3-pointer by Smith and a basket by Johnson cut Michigan's lead to 44-39 and forced the Wolverines to call a timeout.

A 3-pointer by Byrd and a three-point play by Anthony Johnson gave Purdue a 49-47 lead.

Michigan's Trey Burke scored to tie the game at 61 and set up the final 3 minutes.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

South Florida falls to No. 17 Marquette 67-47 - by Eurobasket News
As impressive as South Florida has been in the Big East this season, Bulls coach Stan Heath can only see only one outcome when his team turns the ball over as much as they did at Marquette on Tuesday night.

The Bulls had 22 turnovers and forced only five, leading to a 67-47 loss to the 17th-ranked Golden Eagles.

'No chance,' Heath said. 'We gave ourselves no chance.'

Toarlyn Fitzpatrick (6'8''-F-89) had 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Bulls (12-9, 5-3), who had a setback in what has otherwise been a hot start in the Big East. South Florida had won three straight coming into Tuesday's game, including a victory at DePaul on Sunday.

'We didn't play well,' Heath said. 'Marquette was a part of that, but the things that have been working so well for us in the past, we didn't do tonight. And it caught us.'

Dictating a defensive tempo has been critical to the Bulls' success this season, but the Golden Eagles were the ones applying the pressure Tuesday.

'I think the defense just sped us up a little bit, and had a lot of our guys playing out of character,' Fitzpatrick said. 'We were just out of synch and they forced us to turn the ball over.'

Marquette outscored South Florida 20-3 off turnovers.

'They feed off that, they feed off your mistakes,' Heath said. 'And that's what happened tonight.'

The Bulls struggled to guard Marquette's Davante Gardner (6'8''-F-91), who scored 15 points.

'He gives us a lot of inside power,' Golden Eagles guard Darius Johnson-Odom (6'2''-G-89) said. 'I don't know why a lot of teams haven't really focused in on him, haven't really started to double the post when he catches the ball. But if you're going to let him play one-on-one, it's probably either a foul or a basket.'

Heath said Gardner adds another dimension for Marquette.

'Gardner had a terrific game,' Heath said. 'They went to him early in the game and he got us in some foul trouble and that was something that affected us quite a bit.'

Marquette coach Buzz Williams said Gardner's development has gone a long way toward helping the team rebound from a season-ending left knee injury to center Chris Otule.

Williams also noted that Gardner still has room to improve.

'He's good,' Williams said. 'If he could guard a ball screen and lose 30 pounds, he'd be really good. I don't know when he's going to be able to guard a ball screen, or be able to lose 30 pounds, but he has continued to improve and our team has continued to evolve.'

The Golden Eagles made a point to get Gardner involved right away, getting the ball to him on virtually every possession early. Gardner scored the Golden Eagles' first six points.
Fitzpatrick said the Bulls wanted to force Gardner to his left and take away his right-handed hook shot, but couldn't get it done.

'We scouted him,' Fitzpatrick said. 'We knew exactly what he was going to do. It was just about executing and getting things done.'

Johnson-Odom scored 17 points and Jae Crowder (6'6''-F-90) added 15 points for the Golden Eagles (17-4, 6-2), who have recovered from their rough start in conference play by winning five straight games.

'I just think we're in a really good groove,' Williams said. And obviously when you win, everybody gets more greedy (for success) and that helps.'

It was the 100th career victory for Williams, who made a self-deprecating joke that he was lucky to have a coaching job beyond being an assistant in high school. And given Williams' notorious love for reciting statistics from memory, you'd better bet he knew he was going for No. 100.

'Not to sound like a weirdo, (but) I beat all of you all when it comes to numbers,' Williams said. 'As much as you all Twitter and Facebook and act like you study stuff, you all sleep way more than I study numbers.'

Marquette went on a 7-0 run at the end of the first half to take a 33-21 lead.

'They go in the locker room smiling, I go in the locker room yelling,' Heath said.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

No. 13 San Diego State beats Wyoming 52-42 - by Eurobasket News
Jamaal Franklin (6'5''-G) had 12 points and 11 rebounds and No. 13 San Diego State extended its winning streak to 11 games with a 52-42 victory over Wyoming on Tuesday night.

Chase Tapley (6'2''-G) added 12 points for the Aztecs (18-2, 4-0 Mountain West).

The victory was the 250th at San Diego State for coach Steve Fisher, who is in his 13th season with the Aztecs.

Leonard Washington (6'7''-F-88) had 12 points and eight rebounds and Luke Martinez added 11 points for Wyoming (16-4, 2-2).

The Cowboys were trailing only 25-22 at halftime behind Washington's 10 points and five rebounds.

But San Diego State opened the second half with a 16-4 run, keyed by seven points from James Rahon (6'5''-G), to open a 41-26 lead with 12:15 to go.

Wyoming struggled with its shooting the rest of the game and got no closer than eight points.

Courtesy of www.10news.com

No. 6 Baylor ends brief skid, beats Oklahoma 77-65 - by Eurobasket News
Coach Lon Kruger provides a regular countdown for his players of how many games are left in Oklahoma's season.

As that number keeps shrinking, Romero Osby (6'8''-F-90) sees the missed opportunities piling up and a sense of urgency starting to grow.

Another chance for a signature win slipped by Tuesday night, with Perry Jones III (6'11''-F/C-91) scoring 21 points and tying his season-high with 12 rebounds to lead No. 6 Baylor to a 77-65 win over the Sooners on Tuesday night.

The Sooners (12-7, 2-5 Big 12) were within two points in the final 5 minutes but couldn't get timely stops and lost for the fourth time in five games.

Osby said he hears Kruger's countdown go from 12 to 11 regular-season games left and thinks about the future.

'One day it's going to be no more and then, 'We can do something next season,'' Osby said. 'We want to try to start making progress now, start getting some wins under our belt, start getting some confidence and see where we can go from here, the rest of this year,'

The Sooners fell behind by 10 points in the opening 10 minutes and then repeatedly cut into double-digit leads until they were only a basket behind. But Baylor (18-2, 5-2) had an answer each time, bouncing back after consecutive losses to conference leaders Kansas and Missouri, both also Top 10 teams.

'We're a step away,' Pledger said. 'I feel like we've just got to do something one more. We've just got to make that one more extra step, get that one extra rebound, box out that one time harder. We're just one more step away from everything.'

Jones helped his team pull ahead down the stretch, putting back Pierre Jackson's miss after Oklahoma had gotten within 62-60. Jackson's three-point play on the next possession made it 67-60 with 3:28 to play, and the Sooners couldn't get closer than five after that.

Jackson added 16 points and seven assists and Quincy Acy had 13 points and three blocks for the Bears, who shot 54 percent - their fourth time in the last five games to hit at least half of their shots.

They also went 9 for 18 from behind the arc, after coming in as the Big 12's best 3-point shooting team at 41 percent.

Steven Pledger (6'4''-G) led Oklahoma with 17 points, and Osby had 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Sooners have allowed opponents to shoot at least 50 percent in four of their five Big 12 losses.

'We just have a long way to go defensively. We want to guard Big 12 people and hold them field goal percentage-wise. We've got to just do a better job,' Kruger said.

It was only the second win in 18 tries for the Bears at the Lloyd Noble Center in a series that was heavily lopsided in the Sooners' favor until recent years.

Oklahoma had won 30 straight games in the series from 1978 to 2009 before Baylor won three in a row. The Sooners then won at home and knocked the Bears out of the Big 12 tournament last season to regain the upper hand.

The Bears eased out to a 24-14 lead after Anthony Jones' left-hander inside with 10:20 left in the first half.

Oklahoma managed to chip away, cutting the deficit in half before intermission and then getting the crowd standing when Cameron Clark and Pledger connected on consecutive jumpers to pull the Sooners within 37-36 in the first 2 minutes of the second half.

Osby fought through Anthony Jones for a two-handed slam to get the Sooners back within one again following a jumper by Perry Jones, but then the Bears began to distance themselves.

Brady Heslip hit two 3-pointers and Jackson added another during a 15-3 run, and Acy's right-handed dunk on a fast break put Baylor up 54-41.

Another dunk by Osby sparked a string of eight straight Sooners points, with Carl Blair's fast-break layup trimming the deficit to 56-52 at the midway point of the second half. Sam Grooms hit consecutive jumpers before Clark hit from the right side to get the lead down to 62-60 in the final 5 minutes.

'We've got to figure out ways to get some stops, especially in the second half there,' Kruger said. 'With all due respect, Baylor's very, very good but we still have to figure out a way to get some stops and get into bodies a little bit more (to stop) a couple big offensive rebounds there at critical times.

'I know our guys will keep working. They're not happy with coming close and they're not happy with not getting it all the way done.'

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Georgia falls to No. 1 Kentucky 57-44 - by Eurobasket News
Georgia kept it close most of the first half against top-ranked Kentucky.

Then, just like that, the game got away from the Bulldogs.

Darius Miller (6'8''-G-90) came off the bench to score 19 points and the Wildcats pulled away just before halftime, cruising to a 57-44 victory over Georgia on Tuesday night despite their lowest-scoring game of the season.

Led by Nemanja Djurisic's (6'8''-F-92) 10 first-half points, the Bulldogs (10-10, 1-5 Southeastern Conference) showed no fear early on against a Kentucky team playing its first game since moving back to the top of the rankings. Georgia withstood a 10-0 run by the Wildcats and trailed only 23-22 with less than 6 minutes to go in the period.

Suddenly, the Wildcats (20-1, 6-0) turned it on. Kyle Wiltjer (6'9''-F) knocked down a 3-pointer, then passed to Michael Gilchrist (6'7''-F-93) for a dunk. Dustin Ware (5'11''-G-90) answered for the home team with a 3-pointer, but that jumper with 5:01 remaining was Georgia's final field goal of the half.

Kentucky finished the half with a 10-1 spurt, as Miller scored seven straight on a 3-pointer and two jumpers from inside the arc. After that, the Wildcats' 12th straight win was a formality, even though they scored only 19 points in the second half.

'We had a burp there on defense late in the first half,' Georgia coach Mark Fox said. 'We were never able to get back in striking distance after that. It was a costly time period, but Kentucky is a terrific team. Their defense is just so good.'

Fox said the Bulldogs simply couldn't cope with a team that has the 6-foot-8 Miller at guard and 6-7 Kidd-Gilchrist playing small forward.

'Their length in their size just overpowers you,' he said. 'When your 2 guard is as big as Miller is, then you have Kidd-Gilchrist at the 3 - and those guys are the size of power forwards - they can just overpower you.'

Miller, who had started eight of the previous nine games for Kentucky, returned to the sixth-man role he had played earlier in the season. It didn't really matter. The senior made 7 of 8 shots, including all four from 3-point range.

Good thing he did.

Kidd-Gilchrist, with 14 points, was the only other Kentucky player in double figures. The Wildcats' lowest-scoring game before Tuesday was a 62-52 victory over Old Dominion in November.

'I know there are times I have to step up,' Miller said. 'We have different leaders. We all understand that. We're happy with that. Tonight, the guys were looking for me because they knew I was hitting.'

No one was hitting in the second half. Kentucky went more than 5 minutes without scoring and made just 7 of 23 shots over the final 20 minutes. Needless to say, coach John Calipari knows there are plenty of things his team can improve on before its next game Saturday at LSU.

'We're just into our own thing right now and you can't be a special team and be that way,' he said. 'The biggest thing is let's step this thing up. Last year's team, I couldn't believe we were as good as were so I didn't have to say a whole lot. This year's team, we could be really special and we're not right now.'

Kentucky, which had been No. 1 in The Associated Press rankings for two weeks early in the season, returned to the lead spot after Syracuse lost last weekend. They arrived in Athens to face rebuilding Georgia, which has lost five of its last six but did start out with some inspired play before its first home sellout of the season.

'Everybody got up for this game, and we kind of rode that at the beginning,' Georgia's Gerald Robinson said.

It didn't last. Not with Georgia's top two scorers having miserable nights. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was 3 of 11 from the field and finished with seven points - less than half his 14.7 average. Robinson, averaging 13.8, settled for six points on 3-of-14 shooting.

'We fought hard,' Ware said, 'but we just couldn't get it done.'

Down by 12 points at halftime, the Bulldogs staggered toward their tunnel with heads down, knowing they had given Kentucky their best shot and still faced a double-digit deficit.
Even though the shots didn't fall in the second half, the Wildcats never let up on the boards or at the defensive end. Kentucky finished with a commanding 41-26 rebounding edge and held Georgia to just 35 percent shooting (19 of 55).

Kidd-Gilchrist had a double-double, pulling down 11 rebounds. Anthony Davis also had 11 rebounds.

Ware led Georgia with 12 points. Djurisic failed to score in the second half.

After the break, neither team seemed to play with as much fire - maybe because so many shots clanked off the rim - and the crowd amused itself with dueling chants of 'Go Big Blue!' vs. 'U-G-A!' There certainly wasn't much to cheer about on the court, with Kentucky appearing to play down to its competition and Georgia never getting closer than 10.
Since their only loss, a 73-72 setback to Indiana on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, the Wildcats have won by an average of 17.3 points.

Not good enough, according to Calipari.

'I'm happy we won,' he said. 'But I want us to be even better.'

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Hardaway, No. 20 Michigan hang on, top Purdue - by Rick Ross
COURTESY Sportsillustrated.cnn.com

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) -- Michigan has aspirations of winning a Big Ten title, but the Wolverines know they can't do it if they don't win on the road.

Finally, they got one.

Tim Hardaway Jr. (6'5''-G-92). scored 19 points to help No. 20 Michigan defeat Purdue 66-64 on Tuesday night.

Michigan guard Trey Burke said the Wolverines heard the doubters, especially after a loss at Arkansas on Saturday.

Coming off a tough loss to Arkansas, obviously, some tougher losses on the road earlier in the season, a lot of people were questioning if we could get a win on the road,' he said. 'We stayed together in the second half, and it was good for us to get that win.'

Michigan coach John Beilein said he wouldn't be picky about wins.

It's a relief to win another game,' he said. 'I don't dwell on it. I respect everybody who understands it's a difficult thing. Only the great, great teams can win on the road continually.'

Jordan Morgan had 12 points and seven rebounds, Stu Douglass scored 12 points and Evan Smotrycz added 10 points for the Wolverines (16-5, 6-2), who entered the game in a tie for first place in the league. Michigan shot 54 percent from the field and outrebounded the Boilermakers 30-23.

We have to be a better defensive team,' Purdue coach Matt Painter said. 'We have to be more consistent, we have to contain the dribble better, just have more discipline. I think at times we make improvements at stretches, and then we have just absolute breakdowns.'

Hardaway was the most difficult player for Purdue to contain. He made 8 of 15 shots.

You can see that he's getting more comfortable with physical play,' Beilein said. 'His body's changed. He made a couple of muscle plays inside. When you can get into the lane against Purdue, it's really hard. He got there a few times, just enough to give us a few extra points.'

Lewis Jackson had 17 points and eight assists and Robbie Hummel added 16 points for the Boilermakers (14-7, 4-4).

Michigan led 65-64 and had the ball in the final minute, but Jackson stole the ball from Morgan. Purdue's Ryne Smith missed a 3-pointer from the right corner but came up with the ball in a scramble. Hummel missed a 3-pointer from the top of the key with 12 seconds left, and Michigan got the rebound.

The last good look we got, Lewis did a great job penetrating, pitched it back to me, which is basically what the play was,' Hummel said. 'Great look, I just didn't knock it down. I was basically wide open, so Lewis did 100 percent what he was supposed to do, and unfortunately, I didn't.'

Jackson said his confidence in Hummel is unchanged.

I would do that play 100 more times,' he said. 'The shot just didn't fall. We all know Rob's a great shooter. I don't regret the way it happened. If Coach called that again, no second-guessing. It goes in next time.'

The Wolverines ran the clock down to 3.8 seconds before the Boilermakers fouled Smotrycz. He made the first and missed the second free throw, and Jackson's heave from near midcourt bounced off the backboard.

Hummel didn't take a shot for more than 12 minutes at the start of the game, but he got hot at the end of the first half. He scored Purdue's last seven points before the break to cut the Wolverines' lead to 30-28.

Michigan started strong in the second half. Baskets by Hardaway and Zack Novak pushed the lead to 39-31 with 17:01 to play.

Michigan led by 10 points before the Boilermakers rallied. A 3-pointer by Smith and a basket by Johnson cut Michigan's lead to 44-39 and forced the Wolverines to call a timeout.

A 3-pointer by Byrd and a three-point play by Anthony Johnson gave Purdue a 49-47 lead.

Burke scored to tie the game at 61 and set up the final 3 minutes.

Purdue, which was coming off an 83-58 loss to No. 10 Michigan State, has lost two of its past three at home after a 26-game home winning streak. In both losses, the Boilermakers struggled early.

We just need to do a better job of starting games, getting off on the right track,' Painter said. 'You go back, you watch film, you try to watch your previous games and try to figure it out. We're just a slow-starting team, and hopefully, we can correct it.'

Beilein said his team is starting to understand what it takes to be a contender.

We are learning how to make less mistakes and play better, and realize the degree of error is so small,' he said. 'Whether it's a home game or a road game, I think there's a correlation.'




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  NCAA2   


S. Indiana upsets No. 2 Ky. Wesleyan - by Eurobasket News
No. 7 Southern Indiana won the first round of the 2011-12 Battle for the Bridge with a 72-57 victory against No. 2 Kentucky Wesleyan on Monday night. USI rises to 14-1 overall and 6-1 in the GLVC, while KWC drops to 14-1, 6-1 GLVC.

After 11 lead changes in the first five minutes of the game, the Screaming Eagles used a 9-0 surge to take a 21-13 advantage with 11:37 left in the first half and never looked back. The Eagles continued to build on the first half margin, leading by as many as 13 points before the Panthers clawed their way back to within eight points by halftime, 40-32.

KWC opened the final half by cutting the lead to 41-36, when USI quickly re-extended the margin to 12 points on lay-ups by junior guard Kenyon Smith and sophomore guard Lawrence Thomas (5'9''-G) and a three-point field goal by senior guard Brandon Hogg. The Panthers would cut the Eagles' lead to 48-42, with 13:00 remaining, but that would be as close as KWC would come.

USI systematically pushed the lead back to double-digits and maintained a 10-15 point lead through the final 10 minutes of the game. The Eagles' largest lead was 17 points, at 72-55, with 2:21 to play prior to the Panthers getting the final bucket of the game for the 72-57 final.

Hogg and Thomas topped the scoring column for USI with 16 points each, while senior forward Isaac McClure rounded out the double-figure scorers with 10 points. Smith dished out a game-high five assists and made three steals.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

No. 10 IUP chokes out Edinboro - by Eurobasket News
In a matchup that pitted the second-best defense in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference against the conference's top scoring offense, it was defense that won out as No. 10 Indiana (Pa.) defeated Edinboro 59-51 on Wednesday night. The Crimson Hawks have now won six consecutive games to move to 13-2 (10-1 PSAC) this season.

While the IUP defense was in the spotlight all evening long, it was the offense that came out sharp Wednesday, with the Crimson Hawks jumping out to a commanding 15-5 lead thanks to a balanced scoring attack.

The IUP lead would reach as much as 17 with 7:13 to play in the first half when Ashton Smith (6'2''-G) found Josh Wiegand (6'9''-F/C) for a bucket in the paint.

With the Crimson Hawks in control and the high-powered Edinboro offense yet to establish a rhythm, the Fighting Scots looked to attack rim to stifle the IUP run.

Clint Nicholson (6'3''-G-88) got to the foul line for a pair of free throws and converted, while Jay Fletcher and Bobby Davis both scored to trim the IUP lead to just 11 at 29-18.

Smith would respond for the Crimson Hawks with two free throws and a jumper to push the lead back up to 15 late in the first half, but back-to-back layups by Bryan Theriot would shrink the lead back down to 11 and give the Fighting Scots momentum heading into the break.

Edinboro would ride that momentum early in the second half, going on a 9-4 run highlighted by a pair of threes from Fletcher and Nicholson.

With the IUP offense struggling and without a basket over the last 6:30 of game time, it was the senior leaders who came up large as they have done all season long for the Crimson Hawks.

Smith nailed a jumper to halt the Edinboro run, and Sanders followed with a conventional three-point play to give IUP a 42-31 lead with 15:55 to play in the game, however the Fighting Scots would answer.

Fletcher and Sam Moore would lead an 8-2 charge over the next five minutes to pull Edinboro to within four but the Fighting Scots would not get any closer.

Danny Ayebo sank two free throws to stop the run, and Marcel Souberbielle drilled a jumper just moments later to put the Crimson Hawks back in control.

Fletcher and Nicholson would both connect from deep to keep Edinboro in the game late in the second half, but Sanders and Smith nailed free throws in the final minute of the game to seal the win for the Crimson Hawks.

Sanders led the way with 20 points and eight rebounds for IUP, while Smith added 14 points, five rebounds and four assists. Ayebo finished with six points and seven boards, while Anthony Wells tallied nine rebounds and four assists.

Fletcher finished with 20 points, seven boards and three assists to lead Edinboro, while Nicholson chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. Theriot finished with six points and 10 boards.

The IUP defense was outstanding Wednesday night, limiting the top offense in the PSAC to just 33 percent shooting from the field and a season-low 51 points.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

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  NCAA3   


No. 4 Amherst takes down Bowdoin - by Eurobasket News
David Waller (6'6''-G/F) scored a career-high 22 points and Aaron Toomey (6'2''-PG) recorded an impressive double-double to lead the No. 4 Amherst to an 80-66 win against Bowdoin on Friday.

Toomey matched a career high with 23 points and set a new career-high with 10 assists, adding a team-high five rebounds to help the Lord Jeffs improve to 14-2 overall and 4-0 in NESCAC play.

Will Hanley (6'7''-G/F) had 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Polar Bears, who dropped to 10-5 (1-3 NESCAC). Ryan OConnell hit four 3-pointers en route to 14 points.

Taylor Barrise (6'5''-G/F) continued to shoot well for the Lord Jeffs, going 3-5 from beyond the arc to move into second place on the schools all-time three-point field goal list (192).

Waller added four 3-pointers of his own, as the Jeffs connected on 10 attempts from long range and shot 54 percent overall in the game. The Polar Bears, meanwhile, shot 44 percent from the floor.

In a back-and-forth opening half, the teams traded the lead six times and were tied on four occasions. A pair of lay-ins by Toomey pushed the Amherst lead to four points late, but a Hanley hoop trimmed the Polar Bears deficit to 36-34.

The Polar Bears took a quick four-point advantage out of halftime, but consecutive 3-pointers by Barrise and Waller handed the lead right back to Amherst.

The Jeffs built a seven-point cushion midway through the period but could not deliver the knockout blow until late in regulation, as Waller capped a 6-0 run with a 3-pointer from the top of the key to give the visitors an 11-point lead with 3:14 to play.

Amherst got to the line only twice in the first half, but the Jeffs were 11-12 from the stripe in the second. Toomey and Willy Workman were a combined 10-10 on free throws, as Workman finished with seven points and four rebounds.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Guilford upsets No. 2 Va. Wesleyan - by Eurobasket News
Josh Pittman (6'1''-G) was clutch down the stretch as Guilford knocked off No. 2 Virginia Wesleyan 60-55 on Saturday.

Virginia Wesleyan (13-2, 6-1) battled back from an eight-point deficit to pull within two points (39-37) following a three-point play from Chris Teasley. Pittman responded with five unanswered points for Guilford, to help push the lead to 49-40.

Tre' Ford, Rakeem Davis (6'4''-C), D.J. Woodmore (6'3''-G), and Teasley brought the Marlins back again, making the score 55-52 with 1:38 on the clock following a Woodmore triple.

This time Will Freeman (6'5''-F) extended the lead. He put-back his own miss to give Guilford a 57-52 lead with 46 seconds remaining. Another Woodmore triple made it a 58-55 game, but the Marlins were unable to get the possessions they needed to take the lead.

It was an intense game from the start, with VWC holding its largest lead at 21-16 following a Davis jumper with 6:20 remaining in the half. Pittman took over for Guilford in the closing minutes, coming on strong for eight points in a 14-3 run that gave Guilford a 30-24 halftime lead.

Guilford pushed its lead to eight points early in the second half, but Donald Vaughn, Chris Astorga, and Teasley pulled the Marlins within two point at 39-37. The Marlins challenged for the tie or lead several times after that, only to come up short.

The loss snapped a 13-game winning streak for Virginia Wesleyan and extended Guilford's current streak to four consecutive. It also gave Guilford its ninth win against VWC in the last 10 games.

Woodmore emerged as the game's leading scorer, pumping in 26 points on a 10-18 shooting effort, that included five threes. But, shooting was off overall for the Marlins, who only hit 33 percent from the field. Teasley, who hit four of 11 shots, finished with 11 points.

Pittman led Guilford with 18 points. He hit only six of 18 shots from the field, including three triples. Freeman followed with 16 points, hitting eight of 11 shots inside, and Gabriel Lowder tallied 13 points.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Pacific Comeback Fall Short In Loss To Linfield - by Arnault Desira
A valiant second half comeback came up just short for Pacific Tuesday night as the Boxers rebounded from 24 points down to fall to Linfield 72-66 in Northwest Conference men's basketball action at Ted Wilson Gymnasium.

Trailing by as many as 24 points midway through the second half, the Boxers managed to cut the Linfield lead to single digits thanks to a 25-11 run. A three-point play by David Berney (Jr., Eugene, Ore.) made it an eight-point game with 1:45 left, but the surge proved too little, too late as the Wildcats canned five free throws in the final 30 seconds to secure the contest.

Ernesto Mayz (So., Caracas, Venezuela) turned in his best game in a Pacific uniform, leading the Boxers with 14 points, which included four three-pointers. Charles Mosley (Jr., Hillsboro, Ore.) finished just shy of a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds while Berney also scored 13. Pacific (8-10, 2-7 NWC) shot just 33.3 percent from the field (21-63), but canned 7 of 20 from three-point range and 17 of 25 from the free throw line.

Zach Anderson turned in a monster game for the Wildcats (4-14, 2-7 NWC), scoring 30 points on 10 of 17 from the field, 4 of 10 from three-point range and 6 of 9 from the charity stripe. Andrew Batiuk added nine points while David Lee scored seven to go with a game-high 15 rebounds. Linfield shot 41 percent from the field (19-46) and out-rebounded the Boxers 42-38.

The win was the 325th career victory for Linfield Head Coach Larry Doty, allowing him to surpass his mentor and the gym's namesake as the all-time winningest coach in program history. Wilson compiled 324 wins in 20 seasons coaching the Wildcats from 1961 to 1981.


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  NORWAY   


Eco Orebro signs Terrence Oglesby - by Eurobasket News
Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88, college: Clemson) is a new member of Eco Orebro. The Norwegian point guard signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrived to Orebro from the Sundsvall Dragons, where he moved in December. Oglesby appeared 8 times in the league with Sundsvall collecting 10.8 ppg, 2 apg and 1.9 rpg. The player spent last season with Spanish Tarragona. He appeared 34 times in LEB Gold averaging 6.7 points. He split 2009/10 season between MBC Mykolaiv and Tarragona. Oglesby spent two years at Clemson University in the past. Last summer he played for the Norwegian U20 NT at the U20 EuroBasket Division B in Romania. He exploded there with 24.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3.1 apg for 8 games. Oglesby was the top-scorer of the championship.

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  PHILIPPINES   


2011-2012 PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 3: Died by the Three - by Enzo Flojo
TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS over POWERADE TIGERS, 133-126 (OT)

'This game was determined by hunger, by the team that wanted it more. I told my players before the game that they better be starving because I am,' said TNT coach Vincent Reyes postgame.

At some points in Game 3, it looked like the Powerade Tigers might actually, finally, catch a break and get back in the championship series, but the Tropang Texters were just too good.

They were too good at the most important moments.

Joseph Casio (177-PG-86) hit an improbable three that sent the game into overtime, but, just as they have done since the start of the season, the Tigers continued to live and die by the three-point shot in the extra session.

They died.

Well, not literally of course, but judging by the fact theyre down 0-3 to the defending champions, and one of the deepest rosters at that, they probably feel they might as well be dead.

No team basketball team (here or in the NBA) has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit to win it all.

Sadly, I dont think the Powerade Tigers are going to change any of that.

Here's the compressed game recap from PBA.ph:

Ranidel deOcampo (194-F-81) ought to be swaying to Bob Marley's 'Redemption Song.' De Ocampo committed one of the most terrible errors in PBA Finals history in regulation, but redeemed himself beautifully in overtime as defending champion Talk N Text turned back Powerade to move within a game of sweeping the Philippine Cup Finals at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum. The Tropang Texters gun for their fifth title in Game Four Friday night at the same venue, hoping to add the Tigers to 11 previous teams that fell behind 0-3 and never recovered.

TNT appeared to have Game Three under wraps until the shocking developments with 3.3 seconds left. TNT had possession and held a 121-118 lead.

Inbounding from in front of their bench, De Ocampo, who had 12 points in the fourth quarter, miscalculated on a lead pass to teammate Larry Fonacier (186-F/G-82), who was covered heavily by Gary David. The ball sailed over Fonacier to the backcourt and was scooped up by streaking Powerade rookie JV Casio, who drilled in a huge three point shot to send the game into overtime.

De Ocampo, who had 21 points behind Fonaciers 25, then had five points in overtime, including a triple that gave Talk N Text a 126-121 lead which it never relinquished.

David led Powerade with 36 points but was too worn out in overtime to come to his teams aid, missing all five shots he took. TNT outscored Powerade, 12-5 in overtime. David, Marcio Lassiter, Sean Anthony, Casio and Doug Kramer the Tigers main five were a combined five points in the extra period.

Powerade shot better from 3-point range, but surrendered 15 more attempts overall from its 43 percent field goal shooting. The Tigers also gave up 15 points in free throw conversions after getting whistled for 25 fouls against TNTs 14. Bench scoring went one-sided to TNT, 37-4, a testimony to the Texters extra deep roster.

TNT 133- Fonacier 25, De Ocampo 21, Reyes 19, Peek 16, Williams 14, Castro 10, Alapag 10, Aguilar 6, Dillinger 6, Carey 4, Lao 2, Gamalinda 0.
POW 126- David 36, Lassiter 25, Anthony 25, Casio 18, Kramer 14, Cruz 3, Adducul 3, Lingganay 2, Vanlandingham 0, Allera 0.
QS: 28-34, 63-60, 87-93, 121-121, 133-126

Source: Game recap was compressed and compiled from PBA.ph


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


Filip Dylewicz gets MVP of the Week award for Polish PLK - by Eurobasket News
Experienced former international forward Filip Dylewicz (202-F-80) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Trefl Sopot and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 31-year old forward had the game-high 22 points adding seven rebounds for Trefl Sopot in his team's victory, helping them to crush Zastal ZG (#5, 13-8) with 17-point margin 84-67. It allowed Trefl Sopot to consolidate first place in the Polish PLK. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Trefl Sopot has a very solid 16-5 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Dylewicz had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Trefl Sopot and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Filip Dylewicz averages this season 12.7ppg and 5.1rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 23-year old American guard J.T. Tiller (191-G-88, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Siarka Jezioro. Tiller impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for Siarka Jezioro to edge the lower-ranked AZS PW (#12, 5-16) in overtime by 3 points 88-85. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the top position in . Siarka Jezioro keeps 9th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 9-12 record. Tiller is a newcomer at Siarka Jezioro 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 Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80, agency: BeoExcell) of Slask Wroclaw (#7). Bogavac scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Slask Wroclaw, leading his team to a 87-74 easy win against the lower-ranked AZS PW (#12, 5-16). Slask Wroclaw needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in Round 19. Their record at this point is 11 victories and 10 lost games. Bogavac has a very solid season. In 21 games in Poland he scored 11.5ppg. He also has 5.2rpg and FGP: 60.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. John Edwards (213-C-81) of PGE Turow - 22 points and 5 rebounds
5. John Turek (205-F/C-83) of Trefl Sopot - 17 points and 8 rebounds
6. Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) of AZS PW - 20 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Bartosz Diduszko (198-F-87) of Slask Wroclaw - 12 points and 10 rebounds
8. David Jackson (193-G-86) of PGE Turow - 18 points and 5 rebounds
9. Djordje Micic (195-G-83) of PBG Basket - 21 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Nicchaeus Doaks (202-F-87) of Siarka Jezioro - 14 points and 7 rebounds

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)

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Vaqueros sign Alejandro Flores: - by Luis Modestti
Vaqueros de Bayamon signed Dominican forward Alejandro Flores (204-F-81, college: E.Oklahoma St. JC). Flores takes the Latin-American spot on their roster.

Flores played last season for Toros de Aragua (Venezuela) and Orgullo Paisa (Colombia). He has also played in his native Dominican Republic.

'Flores will be an impact player for our team. His resume says that he will contribute in many areas on the court,' said Vaqueros owner Jose Carlos Perez.

Vaqueros are already practicing under Flor Melendez. Their first import signing was Michael Sweetney.

Some of the player practicing are Christian Dalmau, Ali Berdiel, Orlando Santiago, Roberto Nieves, Angelo Reyes, Franklyn Western, among others.


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


D1 Round 4: Change at the top of the standings - by Eurobasket News
D1 round 4 caused change at the leadership position. First defeat of league's leader Al Gharrafah (3-1) against top-ranked Al Rayyan (4-0) 89-84 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Al Gharrafah. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Tanguy Ngombo (197-84) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Saleem Abdullah Mohammed (202-82) contributed with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Boney Watson (183, college: Sam Houston St.) replied with 33 points (!!!) and 7 assists for Al Gharrafah. Al Rayyan have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Al Gharrafah at the other side dropped to the second place with one game lost. They share the position with As Sadd and Al Arabi. They were replaced at the leadership position by Al Rayyan. Al Gharrafah will play next round against Al Jaysh trying to make it back to the top of the standings. It will be a derby game for which supporters look forward to, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha - Al Jaysh. Al Rayyan will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Al Ahli. It will be extra interesting game as Al Ahli is their local rival from Doha.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#3) and Al Ahli (#6). Al Arabi (3-1) won against visiting Al Ahli (1-3) 79-71. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists and Alvin Mofunanya who added 21 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American guard Cameron Crisp (192-81, college: Tenn Tech) responded with 36 points (!!!). Al Arabi moved-up to second place, which they share with As Sadd and Al Gharrafah. Al Ahli at the other side keeps the sixth position with three games lost. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena As Sadd.
Another interesting game was again a derby between two local teams from Doha: Al Jaysh (#5) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Al Jaysh (2-2) won against visiting Qatar Sports Club (0-4) 77-64. The winners were led by Bakhra Ahmar who scored that evening 27 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds by Oumar Seck did not help to save the game for Qatar Sports Club. Al Jaysh maintains fifth position with 2-2 record. Loser Qatar Sports Club still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with Al Wakrah. Al Jaysh's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Gharrafah.
Bottom-ranked Al Wakrah is still unable to win any game. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fourth consecutive match to fourth ranked As Sadd (3-1) 93-63. Khalid Suliman fired a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. As Sadd moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Gharrafah and Al Arabi. Al Wakrah at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. As Sadd's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha Al Arabi.



Al Wakrah - As Sadd 63-93

Bottom-ranked Al Wakrah is still unable to win any game. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fourth consecutive match to fourth ranked As Sadd (3-1) 93-63. It was a great shooting night for As Sadd especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. International swingman Khalid Suliman (198-87) fired a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Dibril Abdulla chipped in a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Five As Sadd players scored in double figures. International center Mame Souleye (206-87) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds and American guard Darren Kelly (195-78, college: Texas) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. As Sadd moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Gharrafah and Al Arabi. Al Wakrah at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. As Sadd's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha Al Arabi.
Top scorers:
Al Wakrah: M.Souleye 16+13reb, D.Kelly 15+5reb+3ast, S.Abdu 15+5reb+3ast, K.Tharid 7+3reb+1ast, W.Ghanim 6+3reb+1ast, M.Aisaa Muftah 2+2reb
As Sadd: K.Suliman 33+10reb+5ast, D.Mousa 20+3reb+4ast, D.Abdulla 19+13reb+1ast, A.Saad 11+1reb+2ast, M.Yousef 10+3reb+3ast, N.Mammod 0+1reb
gschID: 167525


Al Arabi - Al Ahli 79-71

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#3) and Al Ahli (#6). Al Arabi (3-1) won against visiting Al Ahli (1-3) 79-71. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Sierra Leonean guard Abdulai Jalloh (188-86, college: JMU) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists and American-Nigerian forward Alvin Mofunanya (203-87, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Dream Team Management) who added 21 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Four Al Arabi players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Cameron Crisp (192-81, college: Tenn Tech) responded with 36 points (!!!) and Nigerian center Augustine Okosun (210-86, college: Northwood Fl.) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points, 17 rebounds and 4 blocks. Al Arabi moved-up to second place, which they share with As Sadd and Al Gharrafah. Al Ahli at the other side keeps the sixth position with three games lost. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena As Sadd.
Top scorers:
Al Ahli: C.Crisp 36+4reb+2ast, A.Okosun 19+17reb+2ast, H.Zaidan 11+7reb+2ast, O.Ahmad 2+1reb+2ast, I.Obeid Al Siddeequ 2+3reb+4ast, M.Jabbi 1+5reb+1ast
Al Arabi: A.Jalloh 27+13reb+8ast, A.Mofunanya 21+13reb+1ast, W.Byrd 18+12reb+2ast, M.Atif 10+2reb+1ast, K.Masoud Al Nasr 3+3reb, F.Abu Faisal 0
gschID: 167522


Al Rayyan - Al Gharrafah 89-84

D1 round 4 caused change at the leadership position. First defeat of league's leader Al Gharrafah (3-1) against top-ranked Al Rayyan (4-0) 89-84 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Al Gharrafah. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Tanguy Ngombo (197-84) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Saleem Abdullah Mohammed (202-82) contributed with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Boney Watson (183, college: Sam Houston St.) replied with 33 points (!!!) and 7 assists and A Abussar added 16 points and 16 rebounds in the effort for Al Gharrafah. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Al Rayyan have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Al Gharrafah at the other side dropped to the second place with one game lost. They share the position with As Sadd and Al Arabi. They were replaced at the leadership position by Al Rayyan. Al Gharrafah will play next round against Al Jaysh trying to make it back to the top of the standings. It will be a derby game for which supporters look forward to, where their team will face at home their local rival from Doha - Al Jaysh. Al Rayyan will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Al Ahli. It will be extra interesting game as Al Ahli is their local rival from Doha.
Top scorers:
Al Gharrafah: B.Watson 33+3reb+7ast, A.Abussar 16+16reb, O.Abdelkader 15+14reb+1ast, O.N'Diaye 12+13reb+4ast, M.Abdullah Ali 8+3reb+2ast, M.Faraj 0
Al Rayyan: T.Ngombo 26+10reb+5ast, M.Saleem Abdullah 22+7reb+4ast, E.Ali 19+6reb+2ast, Y.Ismail 14+11reb+5ast, A.Abdulla 6+3reb+1ast, S.Abdullah Mohammed 2+4reb+1ast
gschID: 167523


Al Jaysh - Qatar 77-64

Another interesting game was again a derby between two local teams from Doha: Al Jaysh (#5) and Qatar Sports Club (#8). Al Jaysh (2-2) won against visiting Qatar Sports Club (0-4) 77-64. Al Jaysh forced 21 Qatar Sports Club turnovers. The winners were led by Bakhra Ahmar who scored that evening 27 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and Senegalese power forward Babacar Marone (206-83, agency: Court Side) supported him with 15 points, 16 rebounds and 7 assists. Even a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds by Senegalese Oumar Seck did not help to save the game for Qatar Sports Club. American-Nigerian guard Temi Soyebo (183-84, college: NC-Wilmington) added 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for lost side. Four Qatar Sports Club players scored in double figures. Al Jaysh maintains fifth position with 2-2 record. Loser Qatar Sports Club still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with Al Wakrah. Al Jaysh's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Doha to the arena Al Gharrafah.
Top scorers:
Qatar: O.Seck 19+12reb+3ast, T.Soyebo 18+8reb+6ast, A.Sa'eed 14+1reb, M.Okoro 11+19reb+1ast, W.Salameh 2+4reb, S.Al Malki 0+1ast
Al Jaysh: B.Ahmar 27+9reb+4ast, B.Marone 15+16reb+7ast, A.Turki 15+3reb+2ast, C.Sall 6+5reb, F.Hani 6+4reb+4ast, A.Zibadra 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 167524




D1 Stats
Points Per Game
 Abdulai JALLOH
  Al Arabi
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 29.5
 1. Jalloh, Al Arabi29.5 
 2. Watson, Al Gharr.24.0 
 3. Ngombo, Al Rayyan24.0 
 4. Crisp, Al Ahli22.3 
 5. Suliman, As Sadd19.0 
 6. Soyebo, Qatar17.8 
 7. Ahmar, Al Jaysh17.8 
 8. Seck, Qatar17.5 
 9. N''Diaye, Al Gharr.17.5 
 10. Ali, Al Rayyan17.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Oumar SECK
  Qatar
  (--)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Seck, Qatar14.5 
 2. Okoro, Qatar14.0 
 3. Mofunanya, Al Ar.13.8 
 4. Southall, As Sadd12.7 
 5. Okosun, Al Ahli12.5 
 6. Byrd, Al Arabi12.3 
 7. Jabbi, Al Ahli11.3 
 8. Souleye, Al Wakrah11.0 
 9. Jalloh, Al Arabi9.8 
 10. Abussar, Al Gharr.9.5 
Assists Per Game
 Boney WATSON
  Al Gharr.
  (183-G-)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Watson, Al Gharr.6.5 
 2. Ismail, Al Rayyan4.5 
 3. Mousa, As Sadd4.5 
 4. Soyebo, Qatar4.3 
 5. Jalloh, Al Arabi4.3 
 6. N''Diaye, Al Gharr.4.0 
 7. Mohammed, Al Ra.3.9 
 8. Ali, Al Rayyan3.8 
 9. Abdu, Al Wakrah3.5 
 10. Al Siddeequ, Al A.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Ousseynou N''DIAYE
  Al Gharr.
  (196-G/F-85)
  Avg: 3
 1. N''Diaye, Al Gharr.3.0 
 2. Jalloh, Al Arabi2.8 
 3. Hani, Al Jaysh2.5 
 4. Seck, Qatar2.3 
 5. Abdelkader, Al Gha.2.3 
 6. Saad, As Sadd2.3 
 7. Ngombo, Al Rayyan2.3 
 8. Ismail, Al Rayyan1.8 
 9. Abdullah Ali, Al G.1.8 
 10. Soyebo, Qatar1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael SOUTHALL
  As Sadd
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Southall, As Sadd2.7 
 2. Souleye, Al Wakrah1.8 
 3. Okosun, Al Ahli1.8 
 4. Byrd, Al Arabi1.3 
 5. Mofunanya, Al Ar.1.0 
 6. Seck, Qatar1.0 
 7. Abdelkader, Al Gha.1.0 
 8. Jabbi, Al Ahli1.0 
 9. Yousef, As Sadd0.8 
 10. Zaidan, Al Ahli0.8 


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Al Rayyan 4-0 
 2. Al Gharrafah 3-1 
 3. Al Arabi 3-1 
 4. As Sadd 3-1 
 5. Al Jaysh 2-2 
 6. Al Ahli 1-3 
 7. Al Wakrah 0-4 
 8. Qatar 0-4 


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


Standings
Div.A Standings
 1. Timisoara 15-2 
 2. Gaz Metan 14-4 
 3. U.Mobitel.CN 12-4 
 4. Oradea 12-5 
 5. Targu Mures 12-6 
 6. CSM Bucuresti 11-6 
 7. CSU Sibiu 11-6 
 8. Ploiesti 10-7 
 9. Rovinari 10-8 
 10. Pitesti 8-9 
 11. Dinamo B. 5-11 
 12. Giurgiu 5-13 
 13. Craiova 5-13 
 14. Perla Harghitei 2-14 
 15. Politehnica 0-17 
Folded
 1. Otopeni 4-11 


Troupe is back at CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu - by Eurobasket Center
CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu signed 29-year old American guard Porter Troupe (196-G-83, college: Portland). Its actually Troupes comeback to Rovinari as he played here before. In his first game he scored 17 points, grabbed 3 rebounds and 5 assists helping his new team beat Craiova 84-79. Troupe played most recently at Al Moutahed Tripoli (Lebanon). While playing 1 game for Moutahed this season he recorded 18points, 2rebounds, 4assists and 3steals. Troupe played also pro basketball in Lebanon and USA. He graduated University of Portland in 2002 and actually missed last season. It will be his tenth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Timisoara better than Rilski in BIBL, 80-69 - by Eurobasket News
Timisoara - Rilski Sportist 80-69

Timisoara celebrated 80-69 home win against Rilski Sportist in Round 7 of the Balkan League. The game was played last night in Timisoara. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 45-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Guard Branko Cuic (197-G-78, agency: 011 Sports) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Croatian big guy Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds. Four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) produced 16 points and Martin Marinov (190-SG-85) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Timisoara maintains fourth place in Group A with 3-4 record. Rilski Sportist at the other side dropped to the third position with three games lost. Timisoara is looking forward to face Torus Skopje on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against the second-placed Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Timisoara: S.Spralja 22+9reb, B.Cuic 21+10reb+6ast, D.Archie 15+7reb+2ast, I.Siriscevic 11+3reb, B.Popescu 7+3reb, Z.Jovanovic 4+4ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 16+3reb+3ast, M.Marinov 13+5reb+3ast, F.Vukosavljevic 10+7reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 8+3reb+2ast, H.Zahariev 7+6reb+1ast, B.Boev 7+1reb+2ast

Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 24.8
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu24.8 
 2. Martinic, CSM B.23.8 
 3. Durham, Dinamo B.23.3 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.21.9 
 5. Brown, Dinamo B.21.5 
 6. Ross, Craiova19.6 
 7. Tomic, Craiova19.6 
 8. Darby, Rovinari19.4 
 9. Haymon, Dinamo B.18.6 
 10. Dykes, U.Mobite.18.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Dinamo B.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Durham, Dinamo B.13.7 
 2. Carutasu, CSM B.9.8 
 3. Kinloch, Pitesti9.7 
 4. Nicoara, Gaz Metan9.2 
 5. Grubisic, Giurgiu8.7 
 6. McKenzie, CSM B.8.6 
 7. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.8.6 
 8. Dies, Perla Harghi.8.4 
 9. Riley, CSU Sibiu8.3 
 10. Steffel, Rovinari8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu7.9 
 2. Maric, Oradea6.7 
 3. Cooley, Targu M.5.9 
 4. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 5. Brown, Dinamo B.4.9 
 6. Nikolic, Rovinari4.9 
 7. Vlahovic, Ploiesti4.8 
 8. Cuic, Timisoara4.8 
 9. Stojakovic, Giurgiu4.6 
 10. Martinic, CSM B.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu3.5 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.2.8 
 3. Tucker, Perla H.2.3 
 4. Howell, Gaz Metan2.1 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.2.1 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.0 
 7. Darby, Rovinari1.9 
 8. Burlacu, Ploiesti1.8 
 9. Riley, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 10. Martinic, CSM B.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Bryson MCKENZIE
  CSM B.
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. McKenzie, CSM B.2.0 
 2. Oluic, Rovinari1.9 
 3. Tibirna, Otopeni1.7 
 4. Riley, CSU Sibiu1.7 
 5. Kinloch, Pitesti1.6 
 6. VanderMeer, Gaz M.1.5 
 7. Mijovic, U.Mobite.1.2 
 8. Dies, Perla Harghi.1.2 
 9. Albijanic, Ploiesti1.1 
 10. Archie, Timisoara1.1 


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


EuroChallenge: Antwerp Giants keep Triumph winless - by Eurobasket News
Antwerp Giants-Triumph Lyubertsy 83:58

Antwerp Giants keep Triumph winless in EuroChallenge Group L. The Belgian team overcame the Russian representative 83:58. Antwerp Giants started better and never looked behind in the game. They had 25:14 and then Ralph Biggs (199-F-76, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) increased to 30:16. He made it also 42:24, while Moors scored for 52:30. Triumph had nothing left in them because the Giants tightened the screw over the last 10 minutes, extending their advantage to 30 before walking off the court with a 25-point win. Donkor was the last to score for the hosts, while Kurtsevich closed the score in the game.
Michael Roll (196-G-87, college: UCLA) and Ralph Biggs top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Maarten Rademakers (205-C/F-91) nailed 10 and Timothy Black (178-G-81, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Barton, NC) finished the night with 9 points. Artem Kuzyakin (200-G-80) notched 21 in defeat, while Davon Jefferson (204-F-86, college: USC) scored 15.

Antwerp Giants: Michael Roll 13, Ralph Biggs 13, Maarten Rademakers 10, Timothy Black 9
Triumph Lyubertsy: Artem Kuzyakin 21, Davon Jefferson 15

EuroChallenge: BK Pardubice edged BC Nizhny Novgorod in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
BK Pardubice - BC Nizhny Novgorod 87:80

BK Pardubice edged BC Nizhny Novgorod in Czech Republic in one of the last games on Wednesday in Round 3. They got 87:80 victory for the initial success.
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-15. But BC Nizhny Novgorod won second period 24-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when BK Pardubice won last quarter 27-22. They made 32-of-37 free shots during the game, while BC Nizhny Novgorod only scored fifteen points from the stripe.
The best player for the winners was Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. Four BK Pardubice players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Polish forward Michal Ignerski who recorded 28 points and 5 rebounds and forward Artem Yakovenko (206-F-88) added 15 points respectively.

BK Pardubice: Corey Muirhead 20, Maurice Hampton (188-G-84, college: Austin Peay St.) 19, Marcus Arnold 15+15 rebs, Lukas Kotas (194-F-84) 12
BC Nizhny Novgorod: Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) 28, Artem Yakovenko 15

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  SERBIA   


Torus Skopje hands 75-70 loss to OKK Beograd - by Eurobasket News
Torus Skopje - OKK Beograd 75-70

Torus outplayed OKK Beograd 75-70 in Round 7 of the Balkan league. The game was played last night in Skopje and it is the second win for Torus this season. The hosts were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 21-15 OKK Beograd's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 75-70 at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) contributed with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Filip Sepa (198-SG-90, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points and center Nenad Misanovic (217-C-84) added 18 pts in the effort for OKK Beograd. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Torus Skopje moved-up to fifth place, which they share with defeated OKK Beograd as both teams have 2-5 record. Torus Skopje will play against higher ranked Timisoara at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd will play against the group leader Galil Gilboa and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 16+3reb+6ast, J.Reynolds 15+8reb+2ast, P.Blazevski 14+2reb, G.Markovski 6+3reb+1ast, B.Trajkovski 5+4reb, J.Boswell 5+2reb
OKK Beograd: F.Sepa 19, N.Misanovic 18+4reb, S.Knezevic 13+5reb+1ast, V.Malidzan 8+2reb+4ast, D.Mitrovic 6+11reb+3ast, N.Bezbradica 4+4reb

Mega Vizura locks top prospect Vasilije Micic to long-term deal - by Eurobasket News
Mega Vizura made a move for the future. The club signed one of the Serbian top prospects Vasilije Micic (192-PG-94, agency: Beo Basket) to a long-term deal. The 18-year-old point guard joined Mega Vizura in 2010 from FMP Zeleznik cadet team. Last summer Micic helped U18 Serbia to win the Silver at the U18 EuroBasket in Wroclaw. He shined with 10.1 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.3 apg and 2.1 spg for 9 games at this event and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Best Guard -11. At the same time he was also named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 1st Team -11. Micic played for the Serbian U16 National Team in 2009 and 2010. Last season with Mega Vizura Vasilije Micic had 8.5 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 2.8 apg for 35 games. He started this season in style with 15.9 ppg, 5 apg and 3.5 rpg for 8 games in Serbian league, but then got injured (knee, ACL) and will probably miss rest of the season. Mega Vizura is currently the second ranked team in the league with 12-4 record.

Serbian U16 National team on tournament in Turkey - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian U16 National team will play on Turk Telekom basketball tournament in Sakarya from January 28 until February 5. Serbian National team is in group A with National teams of Slovenja, Poland, Egypt, Letonia and Turkey.

Invited players for this tournament are:

1.Ivan Daskalovic - Crvena zvezda Beograd
2.Stefan Lazarevic - Crvena zvezda Beograd
3.Radovan Djokovic - Mega vizura Beograd
4.Andrija Matic - Mega vizura Beograd
5.Jovan Grujic - Partizan Beograd
6.Jovan Starincevic - Zvezdara-zvezda Beograd
7.Vasilije Vucetic - Olimpija-Slovenija
8.Marko Stajkovski - Vojvodina Srbijagas Novi Sad
9.Jovan Andjelkovic - Mladost Zajecar
10.Nikola Pavlovic - Hemofarm Vrsac
11.Gojko Djokovic - Hemofarm Vrsac
12.Stefan Peno - OKK Beograd

Head coach of youth team is Dejan Mijatovic (agency: Beo Basket ) and in his assistants will be Aleksandar Matovic, Vanja Gusa, Sinisa Milidragovic and physiotherapists Nemanja Ninkovic.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Standings - D1
Extraliga Standings
 1. Nitra 17-7 
 2. Prievidza 17-8 
 3. Komarno 14-10 
 4. Handlova 14-11 
 5. Nova Ves 13-12 
 6. Svit 12-12 
 7. Levice 11-14 
 8. B.Bystrica 7-18 
 9. Vahostav-Zilina 6-19 


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Anthony JONES
  Handlova
  (194-G/F-84)
  Avg: 28
 1. Jones, Handlova28.0 
 2. Clemente, Nitra19.4 
 3. Soska, Vahostav.18.9 
 4. Petty, Vahostav.18.8 
 5. Grant, Levice18.4 
 6. Roberson, Svit18.2 
 7. Hampton, Handlova18.2 
 8. Vaden, Nitra17.4 
 9. Grznar, B.Bystrica17.1 
 10. Jones, Nova Ves17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrew JONES
  Nova Ves
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Jones, Nova Ves11.5 
 2. Kitts, B.Bystrica11.0 
 3. Dorazil, B.Bystrica9.1 
 4. Godbold, Prievidza8.3 
 5. Roberson, Svit8.0 
 6. Majok, Nitra7.8 
 7. Losonsky, Nova Ves7.4 
 8. Batka, Nova Ves7.4 
 9. Johnson, Komarno7.2 
 10. Petty, Vahostav.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony JONES
  Handlova
  (194-G/F-84)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Jones, Handlova7.3 
 2. Jefferson, Nova V.6.8 
 3. Petty, Vahostav.6.2 
 4. Phillips, Prievidza5.7 
 5. Jones, Komarno5.3 
 6. Cosic, Svit5.2 
 7. Grznar, B.Bystrica4.3 
 8. Clemente, Nitra4.2 
 9. Godbold, Prievidza3.0 
 10. Grant, Levice2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Perry PETTY
  Vahostav.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Petty, Vahostav.3.1 
 2. Jones, Handlova2.6 
 3. Pelle, Prievidza2.4 
 4. Jefferson, Nova V.2.4 
 5. Mascoll, Svit2.2 
 6. Grant, Levice2.1 
 7. Jones, Komarno2.0 
 8. Roberson, Svit1.9 
 9. Clemente, Nitra1.8 
 10. Vaden, Nitra1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Ater MAJOK
  Nitra
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Majok, Nitra2.3 
 2. Silinskis, Nitra1.1 
 3. Batka, Nova Ves1.0 
 4. Golian, Handlova1.0 
 5. Grant, Levice0.9 
 6. Dorazil, B.Bystrica0.9 
 7. Kitts, B.Bystrica0.8 
 8. Roberson, Svit0.8 
 9. Prosper, Handlova0.8 
 10. Vaden, Nitra0.7 


Extraliga Round 28: Vahostav-Zilina defeats leader Nitra - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, extra overtimes and favorites losing the games.

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Nitra (17-7) on the court of ninth ranked Vahostav-Zilina on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Vahostav-Zilina 64-56. Nitra trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 18-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 56-64 at the end of the game. Vahostav-Zilina forced 20 Nitra turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Nitra helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international center Ondrej Soska (208-78) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds. Serbian center Dejan Stojanovic (206-78) contributed with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Australian forward Ater Majok (208-87, college: Connecticut) replied with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for Nitra. Vahostav-Zilina maintains ninth position with 6-19 record. Nitra at the other side still keeps top place with seven games lost. Vahostav-Zilina will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Nitra will play on the road against Handlova and is hoping to win this game.

The most impressive performance of 28th round was 32 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists by Anthony Jones of Handlova.


Svit - Levice 94-71

The game between closely ranked teams ended with sixth ranked Svit's (12-12) home victory over 7th ranked Levice (11-14) 94-71 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Svit. Levice was better in third quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Svit looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Levice was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for Croatian guard Petar Cosic (186-85, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. American forward Johndre Jefferson (207-88, college: S.Carolina) contributed with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Five Svit players scored in double figures. American guard Kevin Bridgewaters (175-84, college: Chattanooga) replied with 21 points and 6 rebounds and international forward Richard Urland (195-84) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Levice. Svit maintains sixth position with 12-12 record. Newly promoted Levice keeps the seventh place with 14 games lost. Svit will face higher ranked Nova Ves (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Levice will play against the league's second-placed Prievidza.
Top scorers:
Levice: K.Bridgewaters 21+6reb+3ast, R.Urland 15+7reb+2ast, P.Seman 9+2reb+1ast, L.Lutovsky 9+1reb+3ast, M.Bernard 9+4reb+1ast, L.Stojanov 6+4reb+2ast
Svit: P.Cosic 21+5reb+10ast, V.Polakovic 18+6reb, J.Jefferson 17+9reb+2ast, M.Berkis 15+5reb+2ast, J.Mascoll 13+5reb+5ast, E.Znanec 5+1reb
gschID: 139209


B.Bystrica - Nova Ves 71-96

Rather expected game when 8th ranked SKP Banska Bystrica (7-18) was smashed at home by fifth ranked Nova Ves (13-12) 96-71 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Nova Ves. SKP Banska Bystrica was better in second period 26-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding SKP Banska Bystrica to just 7 points in fourth quarter. It was a very good performance for American forward Andrew Jones (208-87, college: Penn St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 17 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). International forward Stanislav Baldovsky (192-89) contributed with 24 points for the winners. Swingman Vladimir Hovanak (193-82) replied with 22 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Marcus Kitts (205-89, college: William & Mary) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for SKP Banska Bystrica. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. SKP Banska Bystrica's coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Nova Ves have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 13-12 record. SKP Banska Bystrica lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 18 games lost. Nova Ves will face Svit (#6) at home in the next round. SKP Banska Bystrica will play against Komarno.
Top scorers:
B.Bystrica: V.Hovanak 22+5reb+1ast, M.Kitts 15+7reb, B.Koczkas 12+1reb+1ast, R.Korner 12+5reb, M.Zibrinyi 6+2reb, M.Rendla 2+5reb+2ast
Nova Ves: S.Baldovsky 24+4reb+1ast, C.Jefferson 23+3reb+3ast, P.Losonsky 22+5reb+1ast, A.Jones 19+17reb+1ast, O.Ulman 6+5reb+1ast, S.Becarik 2+2ast
gschID: 139210


Vahostav-Zilina - Nitra 64-56

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Nitra (17-7) on the court of ninth ranked Vahostav-Zilina on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Vahostav-Zilina 64-56. Nitra trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 18-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 56-64 at the end of the game. Vahostav-Zilina forced 20 Nitra turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Nitra helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international center Ondrej Soska (208-78) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds. Serbian center Dejan Stojanovic (206-78) contributed with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Australian forward Ater Majok (208-87, college: Connecticut) replied with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and Puerto Rican point guard Denis Clemente (185-86, college: Kansas St., agency: KMG Sports Management) added 19 points in the effort for Nitra. Vahostav-Zilina maintains ninth position with 6-19 record. Nitra at the other side still keeps top place with seven games lost. Vahostav-Zilina will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Nitra will play on the road against Handlova and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Nitra: D.Clemente 19+1reb+2ast, A.Majok 14+11reb+4ast, R.Nuber 10+6reb+4ast, B.Tomek 6+3reb+1ast, M.Jass 2+2reb, D.Silinskis 2+4reb
Vahostav-Zilina: D.Stojanovic 19+6reb, O.Soska 17+8reb+1ast, J.Zavodny 11+6reb+4ast, P.Tilandy 6+4reb+1ast, J.Petras 4+2reb, V.Kosa 3+4ast
gschID: 139207


Prievidza - Handlova 94-104 OT

Handlova surprised the league leading Prievidza on the road. A.Jones scored 32 points, issued 9 assists and grabbed 6 boards to lead the visitors to a dramatic overtime win. S.Hampton added 23 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. D.Godbold answered with 31 points and 7 rebounds for Prievidza.
Top scorers:
Prievidza: D.Godbold 31+7reb+1ast, B.Davis 16+7reb, L.Potter 13+2reb+1ast, S.Phillips 12+11reb+14ast, P.Guede 11+5reb+1ast, C.Pelle 7+6reb+4ast
Handlova: A.Jones 32+6reb+9ast, S.Hampton 23+11reb, I.Barisic 12+3reb+1ast, M.Madaj 11+2reb+1ast, V.Ridzon 9+4reb+1ast, T.Mrvis 7+5reb+3ast
gschID: 139208




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  SLOVENIA   


Standings - 1A
Telemach Standings
 1. Helios 11-2 
 2. Elektra 10-3 
 3. Zlatorog 9-4 
 4. Sentjur 9-4 
 5. Polzela 7-7 
 6. Rogaska 6-7 
 7. Maribor Messer 6-7 
 8. Geoplin Slovan 6-8 
 9. LTHcast Mercator 1-12 
 10. Parklji 1-12 
Play in international cups:
 1. Krka - 
 2. Union Olimpija - 


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Panic, Zlatorog17.7 
 2. Nelson, Sentjur16.8 
 3. Rizvic, Parklji16.5 
 4. Prepelic, Helios16.4 
 5. Maric, Sentjur15.7 
 6. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.15.0 
 7. Rembert, Sentjur14.3 
 8. Hohler, Polzela14.1 
 9. Mahkovic, LTHcas.13.6 
 10. Gay, Helios13.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Esmir RIZVIC
  Parklji
  (213-C-82)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Rizvic, Parklji9.3 
 2. Djugum, Geoplin8.2 
 3. Miljkovic, Rogaska8.2 
 4. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.8.0 
 5. Nelson, Sentjur6.7 
 6. Mucic, Maribor6.7 
 7. Nuhanovic, Elektra6.5 
 8. Maric, Sentjur6.5 
 9. Zolotic, Maribor6.4 
 10. Soldo, LTHcast6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 6
 1. Rupnik, Geoplin6.0 
 2. Rembert, Sentjur5.1 
 3. Vujasinovic, Zlato.4.7 
 4. Jovanovic, Maribo.4.0 
 5. Hohler, Polzela3.8 
 6. Fon, Geoplin Slovan3.6 
 7. Gay, Helios3.4 
 8. Panic, Zlatorog3.3 
 9. Zagorc, Elektra3.2 
 10. Prepelic, Helios3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Tomaz MEZEK
  LTHcast .
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Mezek, LTHcast2.9 
 2. Kobal, Parklji2.9 
 3. Fon, Geoplin Slovan2.1 
 4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.1.9 
 5. Vasl, Polzela1.9 
 6. Panic, Zlatorog1.7 
 7. Gay, Helios1.7 
 8. Mahkovic, LTHcas.1.5 
 9. Rembert, Sentjur1.5 
 10. Lelic, Elektra1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Nuhanovic, Elektra1.4 
 2. Nelson, Sentjur1.2 
 3. Sviridov, Polzela1.1 
 4. Cresnar, Helios0.8 
 5. Djugum, Geoplin0.8 
 6. Guna, Elektra0.8 
 7. Omic, Zlatorog0.8 
 8. Hannibal, Polzela0.8 
 9. Sebic, Sentjur0.8 
 10. Rizvic, Parklji0.7 


Cup Spar Final-Eight to be held in Brezice - by Zeljko Zule
Brezice will be hosting Slovenian Cup Final Eight in February 16-19. The draw for quarterfinal has seen defending champion Union Olimpija with Helios in the rematch of 2011 Cup Spar finals and Maribor face Slovan. In the top half of draw Zlatorog will meet local rival Elektra and Krka paired with Sentjur.
Quarterfinals (16&17/02): Zlatorog-Elektra (A), Krka-Sentjur (B), Maribor-Slovan (C), Heliios-Olimpija (D).
Semifinals (18/02): A-B, C-D.
Finals (19/02):

Slovan outscores Zlatorog, Hopsi won thriller over Helios - by Zeljko Zule
Helios and Zlatorog, both Adriatic League's teams, lost theirs Telemach League games on road.
Hopsi-Helios 86-85: After trailing 69-75, Hopsi tied at 79-79 with 3:45 remaining. Miha Vasl (190-G-92) hit a go-ahead 3-pointer for 84-83 with 1:44 into the game, but Darnley Gay answered with a jumper. Vasl scored again for Hopsi and Andrej Podvrsnik stole the ball to secure the win. Dejan Hohler scored 16 points, Dmitry Sviridov added 15, Andrej Podvrsnik and Stanko Sebic both added 13 and Hanibal Jasson had 12 points. Helios was led by Klemen Prepelic with his game-high 21 points, Darnley Gay posted 16 points, Drazen Bubnic had 11 points and 10 rebounds and Sandi Cebular posted 11 points.
Slovan-Zlatorog 90-68: Slovan, who never trailed, opened the game with 8 straight point and went on a 16-1 run spanning the first and second quarter to go ahead 33-14. Marko Pajic finished with 23 ponts and 8 rebounds, Luka Rupnik 19 points and 7 assists, Miha Fon scored 18 points, Nejc Buda came off the bench for 12 points and Maj Kovacevic posted 10 points. Zlatorog grabbed 11 offensive boards to Slovan's just 3, but missed 15 free throws. Jure Skific scored 17 points, Alen Omic added 10 and Marko Popovic in his debut posted 8 points.


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  SPAIN   


Papa Diasse joins CB Breogan - by Eurobasket News
Papa Diasse (212-F-87, college: SMU) will continue his career in Spain. The Senegalese forward has agreed on terms of contract with CB Breogan. Papa Diasse recently parted ways with KK Zagreb. The Senegalese player joined KK Zagreb at the start of the season. It was the first pro deal for the player. Papa Diasse tallied 2.3 points, 1.1 rebounds per Euroleague game. In Adriatic League the forward notched 3.7 points, 2.8 rebounds per appearance. Papa Diasse graduated from the Southern Methodist University in 2011. The forward was named All-C-USA Defensive Player of the Year in 2011. He participated at the Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 8.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game there. Papa Diasse is the member of Senegalese National Team. He participated at 2011 African Championship. The forward delivered 11.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists in Madagascar.


EuroChallenge: Fuenlabrada wins the top game of Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Fuenlabrada- Besiktas Milangaz 72:70

Fuenlabrada wins the top game of Day 3 over Besiktas Milangaz for 3-0 record on top of EuroChallenge Group K. The Spanish team celebrated a 72:70 victory to hand the Turkish team their first loss.
Fuenlabrada took the lead early in the first period and enjoyed 22:13 after the end of it. David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple) meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 38:31. No matter how hard the Turkish team tried in the third quarter, they could not tie the score. Mike Hall (203-F-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) made two shots for 51:47, while only in the start of the fourth period the guests tasted the lead. Adam Morrison (203-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) scored for 53:51 and David Hawkins brought 59:58. After the teams exchanged baskets, Mike Halltipped in a miss and was fouled by Mensah-Bonsu and made the free-throw to close the gap to 65:63. Colom and again Mike Hall scored the last points for the winners to seal the victory.
Mike Hall stepped up with 15 points and Joaquim Colom (188-PG-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) delivered 10, while Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85) notched 8. Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) replied with 17 points in defeat and Adam Morrison added 16. David Hawkins scored 12 as Besiktas is second in the group with 2-1 record.

Fuenlabrada: Mike Hall 15, Joaquim Colom 14, Kirk Penney 10, Leonardo Mainoldi 8
Besiktas Milangaz: Zoran Erceg 17, Adam Morrison 16, David Hawkins 12

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Sodertalje 15-9 
 2. Boras 15-10 
 3. Norrkoping 14-9 
 4. LF Basket 14-9 
 5. Sundsvall 13-11 
 6. Uppsala 13-11 
 7. Solna 13-11 
 8. 08 12-11 
 9. Jamtland 10-15 
 10. Eco Orebro 1-24 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Stephen MCDOWELL
  Solna
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 23
 1. McDowell, Solna23.0 
 2. Zabas, Jamtland21.6 
 3. Sigurdarson, Sunds.19.2 
 4. Palm, Boras18.8 
 5. Krayem, Boras18.6 
 6. Smith, Sodertalje18.0 
 7. Mbemba, LF Basket17.4 
 8. Gunnarsson, Solna17.3 
 9. Klaric, Jamtland17.3 
 10. McKnight, Boras16.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Palm, Boras10.9 
 2. Baeringsson, Sunds.10.7 
 3. Johnson, Uppsala10.1 
 4. Toombs, Eco Orebro9.8 
 5. Ramsey, LF Basket9.7 
 6. Simms, Sodertalje8.8 
 7. Lalugba, Jamtland8.8 
 8. Stamper, Jamtland8.5 
 9. Watt, Eco Orebro7.8 
 10. Safford, LF Bask.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (184-G-87)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket7.1 
 2. Krayem, Boras6.5 
 3. Pleick, Eco Orebro6.0 
 4. Ermolinskij, Sunds.5.8 
 5. Carter, Uppsala5.3 
 6. Chuk, Sodertalje4.9 
 7. Mitchell, Norrkopi.4.1 
 8. Zabas, Jamtland4.0 
 9. Eriksson, Uppsala3.9 
 10. Beck, Solna3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Rhys CARTER
  Uppsala
  (190-PG-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Carter, Uppsala2.9 
 2. Smith, Sodertalje2.9 
 3. Mbemba, LF Basket2.3 
 4. Mitchell, Norrkopi.2.3 
 5. Krayem, Boras2.1 
 6. Ermolinskij, Sunds.2.0 
 7. Ramsey, LF Basket1.9 
 8. McDowell, Solna1.8 
 9. Johnson, Sundsvall1.8 
 10. Zabas, Jamtland1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Delvon JOHNSON
  Uppsala
  (206-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Johnson, Uppsala1.9 
 2. Ramsey, LF Basket1.9 
 3. Simms, Sodertalje1.7 
 4. Lalugba, Jamtland1.4 
 5. Gregory, Sundsvall1.3 
 6. Toombs, Eco Orebro1.3 
 7. Doychinov, Solna1.0 
 8. Watt, Eco Orebro1.0 
 9. Nystrom, 080.9 
 10. Ayuba, Norrkoping0.9 


Standings - BasketEttan
Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Eagles 14-0 
 2. Taby 12-3 
 3. Akropol 11-4 
 4. LF Future 11-4 
 5. Blackeberg 8-7 
 6. Orongo 8-7 
 7. Haga Haninge 8-7 
 8. Talje 6-10 
 9. Jarva Devils 5-10 
 10. Uppsala KFUM 4-11 
 11. Eskilstuna 2-14 
 12. BG Lulea 1-13 
South
 1. Malbas 15-0 
 2. Nassjo 13-2 
 3. Hoganas 11-3 
 4. Brahe Basket 11-5 
 5. Srbija 10-5 
 6. Helsingborg 6-8 
 7. Hogsbo 5-10 
 8. Solna Branten 4-9 
 9. Fryshuset 4-11 
 10. Eos 3-11 
 11. Sanda 3-12 
 12. Norrkoping BK 2-11 


Eco Orebro signs Terrence Oglesby - by Eurobasket News
Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88, college: Clemson) is a new member of Eco Orebro. The Norwegian point guard signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrived to Orebro from the Sundsvall Dragons, where he moved in December. Oglesby appeared 8 times in the league with Sundsvall collecting 10.8 ppg, 2 apg and 1.9 rpg. The player spent last season with Spanish Tarragona. He appeared 34 times in LEB Gold averaging 6.7 points. He split 2009/10 season between MBC Mykolaiv and Tarragona. Oglesby spent two years at Clemson University in the past. Last summer he played for the Norwegian U20 NT at the U20 EuroBasket Division B in Romania. He exploded there with 24.4 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3.1 apg for 8 games. Oglesby was the top-scorer of the championship.

Stats Leaders - BasketEttan
Points Per Game
 Binyam FEGHADU
  Jarva D.
  (195-G-89)
  Avg: 29.1
 1. Feghadu, Jarva D.29.1 
 2. Fitzgerald, Malbas27.5 
 3. Bergstrom, Black.21.2 
 4. Banks, Taby20.4 
 5. Vukovic, Helsingbo.20.1 
 6. Ganstrand, Sanda18.7 
 7. Nordin, Taby18.1 
 8. Hartmann, Akropol17.7 
 9. Thorangen, Sanda17.6 
 10. Karovic, Eos17.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Todorce PETKOVSKI
  Srbija
  (200-F-80)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Petkovski, Srbija12.3 
 2. Nilsson, Orongo11.7 
 3. Rawlins, Up.11.5 
 4. Damjanovic, Nassjo10.9 
 5. Hartmann, Akropol10.4 
 6. Eliassson, Solna B.10.1 
 7. Vukovic, Helsingbo.9.7 
 8. Robinson, Brahe B.9.6 
 9. Nordin, Taby9.6 
 10. Urban, Eskilstuna9.5 
Assists Per Game
 Farzad NOURI
  Blackeberg
  (179-G-82)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Nouri, Blackeberg5.5 
 2. Lundin, Taby5.3 
 3. Kovacek, Talje4.8 
 4. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.8 
 5. Ghebremeskel, Eag.4.8 
 6. Rawlins, Up.4.6 
 7. Kutra, Hoganas4.5 
 8. Strazdauskas, Hog.4.5 
 9. Hultman-Boye, Hag.4.5 
 10. Wazzi, Nassjo4.3 
Steals Per Game
 John FITZGERALD
  Malbas
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.4 
 2. Wazzi, Nassjo3.3 
 3. Feghadu, Jarva D.3.2 
 4. Rawlins, Up.3.1 
 5. Taylor, Eagles2.8 
 6. Kutra, Hoganas2.6 
 7. Dilek, Fryshuset2.6 
 8. Dawit, Fryshuset2.5 
 9. Strazdauskas, Hog.2.5 
 10. Hultman-Boye, Ha.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Andre NILSSON
  Orongo
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Nilsson, Orongo3.0 
 2. Robinson, Brahe B.2.2 
 3. Rawlins, Up.2.1 
 4. Flink, Helsingborg2.0 
 5. Taylor, Eagles1.9 
 6. Bergstrom, Black.1.8 
 7. Femic, Eagles1.5 
 8. Urban, Eskilstuna1.3 
 9. Williams, Sanda1.3 
 10. Sinani, Malbas1.2 


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Abukar number one in Switzerland for round 17 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Interperformances) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Lugano Tigers, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds, while his team outclassed Boncourt (#7, 4-11) with 31-point margin 104-73. It allowed Lugano Tigers to consolidate first place in the Swiss LNA. Lugano Tigers has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 14-1. In the team's last game Abukar had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Lugano Tigers, through which he has constantly improved. Former San Diego State University star has very solid stats this year. Abukar is league's best scorer averaging so far 20.1ppg. Abukar is in league's top in and averages impressive 58.0% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Erroyl Bing (198-F/C-82) of Geneve Lions. Bing had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. Of course he lead Geneve Lions to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Starwings (#6, 6-10) 86-57. This victory allowed Geneve Lions to move up to 3rd position in the standings. His team's 11-4 record is not bad at all. Bing is a newcomer at Geneve Lions, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard John Sharper (186-PG-84) of Boncourt (#7). Sharper scored 29 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Despite Sharper's great performance Boncourt lost 73-104 to the higher-ranked Lugano Tigers (#1, 14-1). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Boncourt can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 4-11 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Sharper he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Sharper has a very solid season. In 3 games in Switzerland he scored 24.3ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82) of Lugano Tigers - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Rokas Uzas (202-F-88) of SAV Vacallo - 22 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Ronald Yates (201-F-83) of Fribourg - 24 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83) of Monthey - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Avery Jukes (203-F-88) of Geneve Lions - 18 points and 9 rebounds
9. Dave Esterkamp (200-F-78) of Fribourg - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Westher Molteni (200-F-87) of SAM Massagno - 15 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists

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

*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


FIBA President for Trinidad visit - by Don Farrell
Basketballs top officials FIBA (World) president Yvan Mainini and Secretary General Patrick Baumann will be present when the National Basketball Federation of T&T (NBFT&T) hosts the two-day Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Annual General Council at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Port of Spain on Friday and Saturday.
Mainini and Baumann, along with FIBA (Americas) President Horacio Muratore, General Secretary (Americas) and CONCENCABA President Ruberto Herrera are among the 26 delegates register to attend the event.
NBFTT president Courtney McNish and the Federations executives will host 13 English, French, Spanish and Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries.
Mainini, FIBA President, who was elected just over a year ago, and Braumann, will arrive on Friday for their first visit to T&T, with the intension of observing the development of the sport in region.
CBC President Usie Richards and the Confederations executive will arrive on Thursday for a special executive meeting, before the final Board Meeting which is set to commence on Saturday from 9 am.
On the agenda are CBC general statutes, CBC marketing plans, financial reports, and 2011 coaching clinics and competitions for 2012, including a male and female Under-16 tournament.
Sport

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


EuroChallenge: Fuenlabrada wins the top game of Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Fuenlabrada- Besiktas Milangaz 72:70

Fuenlabrada wins the top game of Day 3 over Besiktas Milangaz for 3-0 record on top of EuroChallenge Group K. The Spanish team celebrated a 72:70 victory to hand the Turkish team their first loss.
Fuenlabrada took the lead early in the first period and enjoyed 22:13 after the end of it. David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple) meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 38:31. No matter how hard the Turkish team tried in the third quarter, they could not tie the score. Mike Hall (203-F-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) made two shots for 51:47, while only in the start of the fourth period the guests tasted the lead. Adam Morrison (203-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) scored for 53:51 and David Hawkins brought 59:58. After the teams exchanged baskets, Mike Halltipped in a miss and was fouled by Mensah-Bonsu and made the free-throw to close the gap to 65:63. Colom and again Mike Hall scored the last points for the winners to seal the victory.
Mike Hall stepped up with 15 points and Joaquim Colom (188-PG-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) delivered 10, while Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85) notched 8. Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) replied with 17 points in defeat and Adam Morrison added 16. David Hawkins scored 12 as Besiktas is second in the group with 2-1 record.

Fuenlabrada: Mike Hall 15, Joaquim Colom 14, Kirk Penney 10, Leonardo Mainoldi 8
Besiktas Milangaz: Zoran Erceg 17, Adam Morrison 16, David Hawkins 12

Fenerbahce Ulker's new home, Ulker Sports Arena, opens - by Eurobasket News
Fenerbahe lkers first Top 16 home game in the 2011-12 Turkish Airlines Euroleague marks a turning point for the club and basketball in Turkey with the opening of lker Sports Arena. The state-of-the-art arena is the first multi-functional arena in Istanbul and will serve as the Turkish champions new home. Its 15,000-seat capacity meets the growing needs of Fenerbahe lker as the game of basketball and the Turkish Airlines Euroleague continue to grow in popularity in Istanbul, throughout Turkey and the rest of Europe.

Construction on the arena started in 2008. It has been designed to offer the maximum in comfort and entertainment for fans, athletes and entertainers alike. The arenas 28-ton scoreboard is made up of 25 LED screens and is the biggest in Europe. The arena offers high level amenities including two large VIP lounges, 44 private boxes, a Dine and View Restaurant and a Super Sky Box, lker Sports Arena has everything needed to host all types of major sporting events, concerts and shows.

In addition to Fenerbahe Ulkers Turkish Airlines Euroleague and Turkish League games, lker Sports Arena is also slated to host a variety of concerts, including the Troya Show scheduled for February. lker Sports Arena is operated by AEG which owns, operates or consults for more than 100 of the industrys pre-eminent venues worldwide, across five continents, and works in concert with affiliated AEG entities, including live event producer, AEG Live, AEG Global Partnerships and AEG Development to support the success of AEG venues across the globe.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Orhun Ene : Kalin Lucas in Banvit - by Ugur Turker
Banvit Basketbol Kulubu strengthen his frontcourt with Kalin Lucas (185-PG-89, college: Michigan St.). Orhun Ene, head coach of Banvit Basketbol Kulubu, confirmed to Uur TRKER that Kalin Lucas came to Turkey to join Banvit Basketbol Kulubu. ; ' We reached an agreement with Kalin Lucas. He is in Turkey,Bandrma and if there will be no problem in medical test tomorrow, we are going to sign official contract with him. ' Kalin Lucas had waived by Olympiakos after Greek Club add Acie Law. Kalin Lucas has first season in Europe and he played lastly in Olimpiakos.

*****************************************************
  UBA   


URBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jermaine BARNES
  (194-G/F-82)
  Avg: 30.8
 1. Barnes, GIE M.30.8 
 2. Canady Jr., Atlan.25.0 
 3. Williams, GIE M.23.8 
 4. Morgan, Tennesse.23.0 
 5. Sims, Georgia L.23.0 
 6. Franklin, Austin K.22.8 
 7. James, Nashville M.21.6 
 8. Williams, Georgia21.5 
 9. Webb, Tennessee D.21.0 
 10. Curry, S.Generals20.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jermaine DAILEY
  USA
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Dailey, Georgia L.16.4 
 2. Moore, GIE M.14.0 
 3. Terrell, Dallas St.12.8 
 4. Joseph, S.Generals12.0 
 5. Green, GIE M.11.7 
 6. Morning, C.Tex.11.5 
 7. Johnson, Austin K.11.0 
 8. Canady Jr., Atlan.11.0 
 9. Blue, Atlanta A.10.0 
 10. Hampton, Tenness.9.4 
Assists Per Game
 DeAndre BRAY
  (168-G-85)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Bray, S.Generals12.7 
 2. Webb, Tennessee D.6.8 
 3. Sims, Georgia L.6.5 
 4. Barnes, GIE M.6.3 
 5. Ragsdale, GIE M.6.1 
 6. Belton, Atlanta A.5.7 
 7. Glover, C.Texas C.5.7 
 8. Morgan, Tennesse.5.3 
 9. Cantrell, GIE M.5.0 
 10. James, Nashville4.8 
Steals Per Game
 Freddie WILLIAMS
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 5
 1. Williams, GIE M.5.0 
 2. Bray, S.Generals4.7 
 3. Barnes, GIE M.3.2 
 4. Glover, C.Texas C.2.3 
 5. Bowdy, Dallas S.2.3 
 6. Ragsdale, GIE M.2.3 
 7. James, Nashville M.2.2 
 8. Curry, S.Generals2.0 
 9. Johnson, S.Generals2.0 
 10. Antoine, Atlanta2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Torrez HAMPTON
  (203-C-)
  Avg: 0
 1. Hampton, Tennesse.0.0 
 2. Adkins, Austin K.0.0 
 3. Guillory, Houston0.0 
 4. Simpson, GIE M.0.0 
 5. Green, GIE M.0.0 
 6. Shewmake, Nashvill.0.0 
 7. Glover, C.Texas C.0.0 
 8. Randall, Tennesse.0.0 
 9. Glover, C.Texas C.0.0 
 10. Patel, Tennessee0.0 


Standings
UBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Cincinnati S. 5-0 
 2. S.Ohio K. 4-1 
 3. SE Hoopstars 4-2 
 4. Buckeye B. 3-2 
 5. Midwest M. 2-4 
 6. Ohio R. 1-3 
 7. Cleveland R. 1-6 
 8. Louisville S. 0-1 
Southern
 1. GIE Morrow D. 8-1 
 2. Tennessee D. 6-3 
 3. Atlanta A. 4-2 
 4. Georgia L. 3-3 
 5. S.Generals 1-2 
Western
 1. C.Texas C. 7-1 
 2. Cleveland H. 4-3 
 3. Houston E. 2-2 
 4. Austin K. 2-4 
 5. DFW Warriors 0-7 
D-League
 1. Nashville M. 1-5 
 2. Queen City G. 0-3 
Traveling Teams
 1. Dallas Stars 2-5 
 2. Team Japan 0-0 


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Zimmerman number one in Ukraine for round 23 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Derrick Zimmerman (191-G-81) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for BC Kyiv, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 30-year old player got a double-double of 19 points and 11 assists, while his team beat Mykolaiv (#10, 9-15) 81-72. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. BC Kyiv maintains the 9th position in Ukrainian Superleague. BC Kyiv 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 12-12 record. Zimmerman turned to be BC Kyiv's top player in his first season with the team. Former Mississippi State University star has very solid stats this year. Zimmerman is in league's top in assists (2nd best: 5.9apg) and averages impressive 52.9% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old American Eric Coleman (200-C-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Hoverla. Coleman had a very good evening with 32 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Bad luck as Hoverla was edged by slightly lower-ranked Dnipro (#8, 13-12) 75-73. Hoverla managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 14-11 record is not bad and everything may still change. Coleman is well-known at Hoverla and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was Serbian forward Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) of Halychyna (#14). Vukosavljevic scored 23 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Vukosavljevic's great performance Halychyna lost 79-89 to the higher-ranked Dnipro (#8, 13-12). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Halychyna can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 3-22 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Vukosavljevic he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Vukosavljevic has a very solid season. In 15 games in Ukraine he scored 18.7ppg. He also has 11.5rpg, 1.4bpg and FGP: 57.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Willie Deane (188-PG-80) of BC Odessa - 22 points and 9 assists
5. Shawn King (208-C-82) of BC Odessa - 25 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84) of Halychyna - 19 points and 14 rebounds
7. Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) of Budivelnyk - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv - 4 points and 16 rebounds
9. Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) of Azovmash - 18 points and 13 rebounds
10. Charles Thomas (203-F-86) of Dnipro - 21 points and 8 rebounds

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

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


Deng 'week-to-week' with torn wrist ligament - by Eurobasket News
Changing the official prognosis from 'day-to-day' to 'week-to-week,' Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau confirmed Tuesday that Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) suffered a torn ligament in his left wrist.

'He's going to be out for a while,' Thibodeau said. 'It's a pain tolerance thing.'

As reported in Tuesday's Tribune, Thibodeau said Deng plans to avoid surgery and play through the pain eventually. Thibodeau said Deng even did some dribbling with his left hand and shooting drills on Monday, though Deng disputed that.

'I'll be fine,' Deng said afterward. 'Definitely disappointed. I gotta get the pain level down.'

Deng suffered the injury on Saturday night.

'When it happened, I knew it was something serious,' Deng said.

Asked why he is not opting for surgery now, which he admitted is a possibility later, Deng pointed to the Bulls' title chances.

'I really feel like we have a very good chance of doing something special,' Deng said. 'I feel that without the surgery I will be fine. I just know what I can and cant do with it. I think I will be very effective out there. There will be days where its sore. Were going to try to control how sore it gets. Everybodys body responds differently. Im very confident Ill be able to handle it.'

Lakers star Kobe Bryant opened the season playing through a torn ligament in his right wrist. Deng's rookie season ended and he missed the 2005 playoff run when he opted for surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right wrist. Deng said this injury is the same and he confirmed a Tribune report that Dr. Susan Craig-Scott, who performed that 2005 surgery, is involved in the process.

Deng played high school basketball with the son of Craig-Scott, whose husband is the Knicks' former team physician.

'This time around, Im familiar with it,' Deng said. 'I know how it feels pain-wise. Just trying to get it down to a certain level where I can play again. Im really confident I will be out there hopefully soon.'

Deng said he is confident he will have full range of motion once the pain subsides enough for him to test the wrist.

'I should,' he said. 'I dont think I could damage it any further. Its really about controlling the pain.'

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

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


Guaros de Lara add three imports - by Eurobasket News
Guaros de Lara are bolstering roster for the upcoming season. The team has agreed on terms of contract with Damone Brown (204-F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Syracuse), Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Oklahoma St.) and Hassan Adams (193-G-84, college: Arizona).
Damone Brown started the season in Mexico. The forward played for Huracanes de Tampico in LNBP. Damone Brown tallied 6.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 1.0 steal per game. Previously the forward had stints in Mexico, PBL, D-League, Netherlands, Japan, South Korea, NBDL and NBA. Damone Brown made it into All-NBDL 2nd Team in 2005.
Cheyne Gadson has recently played in D-League. The guard averaged 15.8 points, 5.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds per game for the Idaho Stampede. Cheyne Gadson is not new to Guaros de Lara. He played for the team in 2010. His stats read 13.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.3 steals per game then. The guard also had spells in Latvia, D-League, Italy, CBA, USBL, WBA and ABA.
Hassan Adams was last seen in Philippines. The guard played for Rain or Shine in PBA. Previously Hassan Adams played in NBA, Serbia, Italy.


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


Minsk-2006 add Justinas Sinica and Bobby Maze - by Eurobasket News
Minsk-2006 add Justinas Sinica (203-F-85) and Bobby Maze (188-G-86, college: Tennessee) to their roster. After no victories in VTB League and the first loss in the National League, the team had to think of some changes.
Justinas Sinica is a Lithuanian player who in 2010-2011 played for Rudupis Prienu (LKL, starting five). In Baltic League after 15 games his stats read 10.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 80.8%. In Lithuanian League he averaged 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 43.1%, FT: 86.5%. The season 2011-2012 he started for Rudupis Prienu (LKL), but left in Dec.'11
Bobby Maze is an American Guard who in 2006-2007 started for Oklahoma (NCAA). In 2008-2009 he played for Tennessee (NCAA, starting five) and in 34 games averaged 8.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3Pts: 31.9%, FT: 69.4%. After another season there in Mar.'11 signed at Puntukas Jarimpeksas Anyksciai (Lithuania-NKL, starting five) and had 10.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.7spg. The season 2012 appeared for Bucaneros de La Guaira (Venezuela-LPB) but left the team.


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  WABA LEAGUE   


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Group B - by Eurobasket News
Group B
Champville - Duhok 98:91
Champville managed to eke out a tough victory over pesky Duhok at the start of WABA League campaign in Group B. The Lebanese team escaped with a 7-point win behind 30 points and 9 rebounds from Samuel Hoskin (206-F/C-79, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: De Paul).
Both teams entered the game aggressively. They exchanged baskets as Champville snatched a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) went on court in the second term helping Champville clear off to a 14-point halftime lead 50:36. But Duhok struck back in the third quarter. The Iraqi team narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 71. Champville however regained control in the final term. They spurred back in front and hung on to win the battle. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence) finished with 25 points, 13 boards and 4 assists for Champville. Fadi Khatib had 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Malcolm Battles (205-F/C-79, college: N.Mexico) answered with 22 points and 16 boards. Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.) had 21 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Champville: Samuel Hoskin 30, Garnett Thompson 25+13 boards, Fadi Khatib 19
Duhok: Malcolm Battles 22+16 boards, Chamberlain Oguchi 21


Mahram - Moutahed 106:73
Mahram registered the opening win at WABA League Group B action. They fired past Moutahed tonight. Samad Nikkhah (198-G/F-83) scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Moutahed and Mahram stayed evenly matched in the opening quarter. The teams finished the period knotted up at 22. The lead changed hands throughout the second period. Mahram had the last laugh in the half taking a 41:39 advantage. The Iranian team slowly started to accumulate the advantage. Mahram entered the final quarter up by 27 points 79:52. They gained the room to breathe and never looked back en route to the victory. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) scored 20 points, while Pape Sow (208-F-81, college: CS Fullerton) accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 steals for the winners. Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) answered with 17 points for Moutahed. Cruz Daniels (211-C-85, college: High Point) and Bassem Balaa (198-F/C-81) netted 11 points each in the loss.

Mahram: Samad Nikkhah 21+12 boards, Hamed Afagh 20, Pape Sow 18
Moutahed: Austin Johnson 17, Cruz Daniels 11, Bassem Balaa 11



WABA Final Standings
WABA Standings
Group A
 1. Al Riyadi 4-0 
 2. Zob Ahan 3-1 
 3. Petrochimi 2-2 
 4. Al Riyadi Am. 1-3 
 5. Al Tilal 0-4 
Group B
 1. Champville 1-0 
 2. Mahram 1-0 
 3. ASU 0-0 
 4. Duhok 0-1 
 5. Moutahed 0-1 


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  ZIMBABWE   


H'landers' fine run continues - by Thomas Fink
Tuesday, 24 January 2012 07:20
By Mbonisi Mabhena

Highlanders (M) continued their trailblazing run in weekend basketball matches as they brushed aside Steelers to win 97-59 to stay at the top of the log standings. The in-form Michael Zvoushe was the match's top scorer as he bagged 19 points in a match played at Bulawayo Club for the Disabled (BCD) Courts. Lakers recorded a 20-0 win courtesy of a walkover victory over Hawks who failed to pitch up.

Unicorns (M) from the Midlands beat Oilers 99-52 with the Midlands side's duo of Tatenda Tswatswa and Blessing Chidimu being tied on 20 points as the highest scorers for the winners. Kings (M) triumphed over Stars 77-57 in a tightly contested match in which at some stage Kings' Garth Hussey played a starring role with 24 points. Highlanders (W) also recorded a massive win when they easily trounced Stars 95-9 with Bosso's Jackie Phenduka top scoring for the weekend with 29.

In the Giants (W) versus Steelers match, the Bulawayo girls won 45-31. 'The matches are tough as can be seen by the tight log standings at the moment and slip-ups are a luxury teams cannot afford, at the moment things are not too bright for us but we are still there in the league race and we did not lose too badly this weekend,' said ZB Titans team manager and Bulawayo Basketball Association spokesperson Charles Ndlovu after the Oilers-Unicorns match which was the last of the day on Saturday.

Results
Giants (M) 68, ZB Titans 53; ALCC (M) 20, Sixers 0; Kings (M) 77, Stars 57, Highlanders (M) 97, Steelers 52, Oilers (M) 52, Unicorns 99; Giants (W) 45, Steelers 31; Lakers (W) 20, Hawks 0; Highlanders (W) 95, Stars 9



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Women News

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  BOSNIA - Women  


Round 10: Wins for Zeljeznicar and Rudar - by Eurobasket News
Round 10 of the Bosnian D1 for women was played last weekend. The top ranked Zeljeznicar recovered from its first loss of the season having no mercy for Mladost. The Sarajevo team celebrated huge 81-48 home win for 8-1 record in the league. Jelena Culafic (175-G-89) shined for the hosts with 16 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds. Mladost slipped to 3-6 after this meeting. The second ranked Rudar Sport also celebrated in this round. They outplayed Igokea 52-65 as a guest for 6-2 score. Andrea Pinter (174-G-80) led Rudar with 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Igokea remains the only winless team in the league with 0-9. In the last game of the round, Banovici grabbed 58-56 victory against Borac. Azra Becirovic (182-F-80, agency: Data Plus Group) led the home squad with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Banovici 3-5, Borac 5-4. Round 11 is scheduled for the next weekend.

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  CROATIA - Women  


Marija Vrsaljko leads Gospic past Frisco Sika - by Eurobasket News
Gospic - Frisco Sika 73:62

Gospic snapped Euroleague three-game losing skid. They defeated Frisco Sika at home court to improve at 5-8 record in Group C. Frisco Sika continued their fall as they slipped at 1-12 record. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) stepped up with 20 points and 13 rebounds for Gospic before fouling out.
The teams stayed close in the starting quarter however Komplet capped the stanza with a three-point play to give the hosts a 17:14 lead. Frisco Sika pulled ahead midway through the second term but Gospic surged back in front and secured a 38:33 halftime lead. The hosts used a 10:0 run late in the third quarter to establish a 58:46 lead. Abdi and Hejdova pulled Frisco Sika within 6 points 62:68 with under two minutes remaining but accurate free throws helped Gospic celebrate win at the end. Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) had 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Julie McBride (165-G-82, college: Syracuse) added 14 points, 6 boards and 6 assists in the win. Alena Hanusova (189-F/C-91) answered with 18 points for Frisco Sika. Jasmine Thomas (175-G-89, college: Duke) finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Gospic: Marija Vrsaljko 20+13 boards, Sandra Mandir 17+10 boards, Julie McBride 14
Frisco Sika: Alena Hanusova 18, Jasmine Thomas 12+10 boards


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  CYPRUS - Women