EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/4/2012

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Men News

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  ABA   


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


Jersey Express fall to Connecticut, 109-104 - by Gianni Pascucci
On Friday, December 30, the Jersey Express felt to Connecticut Top Ballerz, 109-104. Dexter Gray (6'7''-F-85, college: Iona) led the Express with 19 points, while Zahir Carrington (6'7''-F, college: Lehigh) and Prentice Small (5'9''-G) chipped in 18 apiece. Connecticut's Kelvin Davis (6'3''-G-84, college: San Diego St.) was the games leading scorer with 30 points. Jersey was without point guard Sedale Walton (6'1''-G-85), who is averaging 20.0 points per game.

The Express return to action at the Jersey City Armory on Saturday, January 7 against the Hudson Valley Hype at 7:30 pm, this will be the only meeting between the teams this season.
At noon Saturday, the Express; thru its collaboration with the Newark YMCAs Jr. Slam Basketball League, will participate in its 1st clinic of the season, for boys and girls.
The Express are currently 6-4 on the season, and average 113 points per game. For future games, check out the Express schedule here: http://www.jerseyexpress.net/schedule



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  ACPBL   


Hudson Valley Kingz 2011-12 roster - by Mike Lee
The Hudson Valley Kingz are entering their 2nd season in the ACPBL. In 2010-2011 The Kingz finished their 1st season with a 4-10 record with two wins coming by way of forfeit. Despite their record, The Kingz managed to get into the 2011 ACPBL playoffs but lost in the 1st round to the Beltway Bombers. 'It was a tough first season for us, says head coach Donald Herring Jr. We must get better and improve our roster going forward its all on me.'

The 2011-2012 Hudson Valley Kingz feature a better group of players made up of returning players such as Doug Herring Jr. (6'2''-G/F, college: Utica)., who led the Kingz in points, rebounds, and assists last year. Tone Surin, who led the Kingz in steals last year, is one of the teams best defensive players. The team returns forward/center Kevin Pegram, while Noel Patterson, Devon Dingle, and player/coach Rynard Brown return to the team as well. Despite his height, returnee, Devin Dingle, is the heartbeat of the team's defense, whose contribution goes far beyond the box score. Prince Jackson (6'7''-F/G, college: Dominican, NY) will also be returning to the team, although he is currently playing basketball overseas, after averaging 22.4 points and 5.6 rebounds in 11 games for the team last year.

The Kingz have also added a few newcomers with ACPBL experience. Brandon Butler (6'0''-G-82, college: C.W. Post), who averaged 13 points per game for the NY Lions and Jamal Webb, who averaged 18.3 points per game for the Westchester Wildkatz, will be new additions to this years roster. Jamie Procino, formerly of Husdon Valley Hype of the Eastern Basketball Alliance (EBA), will also be among this years newcomers. Other additions include Kevin Cayea, Kaheem Davis, Gene Roman, Terrence Tabron, James Mcclendon, Harry Osterhoudt, Keenan Belle, and Kevin Briggs.

The Kingz have high hopes for a great year with their returning players and newcomers. Kingz head coach Donald Herring says, 'the hardest thing will be to get the players in the gym for much needed practice time together with so many new faces. The Kingz will play their first ever home game on January 14th after opening the season with two wins on the road versus the Buffalo Warriors.
<<>><<>>

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Round 13: Derby game ends with Krka's defeat of Zlatorog - by Eurobasket News
Adriatic League is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 13 rounds left. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most interesting game of round 13 was a derby match between two teams from Slovenia. The game took place in Novo Mesto where eleventh ranked Krka won against visiting Zlatorog (2-11) 72-67. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Zlatorog won third quarter 21-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Jure Balazic (204-80) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Forward Jaka Brodnik (203-92) answered with 19 points for Zlatorog. Zlatorog's coach Ivan Sunara rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending Slovenian champion (4-9) moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Hemofarm. Zlatorog lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 11 games lost. Krka is looking forward to face league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Zlatorog will play on the road against the league's leader Maccabi T-A (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
One of the most interesting games of round 13 was a derby match between two teams from Serbia. The game took place in Beograd where third ranked Partizan won against visiting Zvezda (3-10) 85-67. Guard Dragan Milosavljevic (198-89) stepped up and scored 23 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots) for the winners and Vladimir Lucic chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). At the losing side center Petar Popovic (211-79) responded with 10 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending Serbian champion maintains third place with 9-4 record having just three points less than leader Maccabi T-A, which they share with Buducnost. Zvezda at the other side keeps the twelfth position with ten games lost. They share it with Helios. Partizan will play against KK Zagreb CO (#6) at home in the next round. Zvezda will play against Hemofarm (#11) in Vrsac and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Kragujevac supposed to be also quite interesting. Second ranked Israeli Maccabi T-A (12-1) played at the court of 8th ranked Serbian Radnicki K. (6-7). Maccabi T-A smashed Radnicki K. 91-70 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Radnicki K.. David Blu nailed 23 points and 4 steals for the winning side. Maccabi T-A's coach David Blatt felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. David Simon came up with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Radnicki K. in the defeat. Defending Israeli champion keeps a position of league leader. Loser Radnicki K. keeps the eighth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Siroki WWin. Maccabi T-A will meet at home bottom-ranked Zlatorog (#14) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Radnicki K. will play against Cibona (#7) in Zagreb and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very interesting game took place in Domzale. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Croatian Cibona (7-6) to thirteenth ranked Slovenian Helios (3-10) 78-76 on Friday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. D.J. Gay fired 26 points and 6 steals for the winners. Helios' coach Zmagoslav Sagadin allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Helios moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Crvena Zvezda. Cibona at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. Helios' next round opponent will be higher ranked HKK Siroki WWin (#9) in Siroki Brijeg and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Croatian KK Zagreb CO (7-6) and Bosnian HKK Siroki WWin (6-7), which took place in Siroki Brijeg. 6th ranked KK Zagreb CO lost to ninth ranked HKK Siroki WWin in a road game 78-89 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of KK Zagreb CO. It was a very good performance for Jakov Vladovic who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Bosnian champion moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Radnicki K. Defending Croatian champion KK Zagreb CO keeps the sixth position with six games lost. HKK Siroki WWin will face Helios (#12) in Domzale in the next round.

Other games in round 13 were not that significant. Cedevita beat Hemofarm on the road 78-74. Buducnost won against Union Olimpija on its own court 63-56. Maccabi T-A outscored Hemofarm in Tel-Aviv 85-59.
The most impressive performance of 13th round was 20 points and 5 rebounds by Vedran Vukusic of Cedevita.

Hemofarm - Cedevita 74-78

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Croatian Cedevita (11-2) beat 10th ranked Serbian Hemofarm (4-9) in Vrsac 78-74 on Friday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 47-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Hemofarm was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for forward Vedran Vukusic (206-82, college: Northwestern) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 5 rebounds. American-Croatian guard Dontaye Draper (180-84, college: Charleston) contributed with 11 points and 7 assists for the winners. Guard Mladen Jeremic (196-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 13 points and 5 rebounds and Montenegrin power forward Ivan Maras (208-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points in the effort for Hemofarm. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Cedevita have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain second place with 11-2 record behind leader Maccabi T-A. Hemofarm lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with nine games lost. Cedevita will face Buducnost (#3) in Podgorica in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Hemofarm will play at home against Zvezda (#13) in Beograd.
Top scorers:
Hemofarm: I.Maras 14+4reb, M.Jeremic 13+5reb+1ast, A.Nesovic 11+3reb+2ast, M.Sutalo 10+2reb+1ast, B.Savovic 9+8reb+1ast, N.Dangubic 9+1reb+1ast
Cedevita: V.Vukusic 20+5reb+3ast, M.Smodis 13+2reb+1ast, M.Bilan 12+8reb, D.Draper 11+3reb+7ast, M.Car 7+2ast, V.Princ 5+2reb+2ast

gschID: 133016


Buducnost - Union Olimpija 63-56

Everything could happen in Podgorica at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Montenegrin Buducnost and 5th ranked Slovenian Union Olimpija had identical 8-4 record. This time Buducnost used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Ljubljana 63-56 on Sunday night. Union Olimpija trailed by 16 points at halftime and as many as 18 after three quarters before a 21-10 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 56-63 at the end of the game. Buducnost dominated on the defensive end, holding Union Olimpija to just 7 points in second quarter. Union Olimpija was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for center Bojan Dubljevic (205-91, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 8 rebounds. Serbian forward Cedomir Vitkovac (201-82, agency: Beo Basket) contributed with 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Buducnost's coach Dejan Radonjic used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. Bosnian-Israeli center Robert Rothbart (217-86) answered with 21 points and 7 rebounds and Latvian center Davis Bertans (205-92) added 5 points and 4 assists in the effort for Union Olimpija. Buducnost have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending Montenegrin champion (9-4) moved-up to third place, which they share with Partizan. Loser Union Olimpija keeps the fifth position with five games lost. Buducnost will face league's second-placed Cedevita in Zagreb in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Union Olimpija will play on the road against Zlatorog in Lasko.
Top scorers:
Union Olimpija: R.Rothbart 21+7reb, J.Blazic 7+3reb+1ast, J.Mocnik 6+2reb+2ast, D.Bertans 5+3reb+4ast, E.Kastrati 5+3reb, D.Muric 5+2reb+1ast
Buducnost: B.Dubljevic 20+8reb, C.Vitkovac 12+5reb+4ast, B.Krstovic 11+1reb, J.Anderson 7+2reb+4ast, A.Popovic 5+6reb, N.Ivanovic 3+1reb
gschID: 133017


Radnicki K. - Maccabi T-A 70-91

The game in Kragujevac supposed to be also quite interesting. Second ranked Israeli Maccabi T-A (12-1) played at the court of 8th ranked Serbian Radnicki K. (6-7). Maccabi T-A smashed Radnicki K. 91-70 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Radnicki K.. The game was mostly controlled by Maccabi T-A. Radnicki K. managed to win third quarter 27-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Radnicki K. 39-27 including a 29-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Maccabi T-A especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. American-Israeli forward David Blu (201-80, college: USC) nailed 23 points and 4 steals for the winning side and American swingman Devin Smith (196-83, college: Virginia) accounted for 22 points and 5 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures. Maccabi T-A's coach David Blatt felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American center David Simon (207-82, college: IPFW) came up with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Australian-Serbian guard Steven Markovic (190-85) added 9 points and 5 assists respectively for Radnicki K. in the defeat. Defending Israeli champion keeps a position of league leader. Loser Radnicki K. keeps the eighth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Siroki WWin. Maccabi T-A will meet at home bottom-ranked Zlatorog (#14) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Radnicki K. will play against Cibona (#7) in Zagreb and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Radnicki K.: D.Simon 17+6reb+4ast, S.Sinovec 11+3reb, M.Scott 11+7reb, S.Markovic 9+4reb+5ast, S.Bratic 7+2reb, M.Pavkovic 6+1reb+3ast
Maccabi T-A: D.Blu 23+2reb+2ast, D.Smith 22+5reb, K.Langford 17+6reb+3ast, S.Schortsanitis 12+2reb+2ast, T.Papaloukas 6+4reb+1ast, Y.Ohayon 4+3reb+5ast
gschID: 165780


Siroki WWin - KK Zagreb CO 89-78

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Croatian KK Zagreb CO (7-6) and Bosnian HKK Siroki WWin (6-7), which took place in Siroki Brijeg. 6th ranked KK Zagreb CO lost to ninth ranked HKK Siroki WWin in a road game 78-89 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of KK Zagreb CO. The game was mostly controlled by HKK Siroki WWin. KK Zagreb CO was better in fourth quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. HKK Siroki WWin made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. HKK Siroki WWin outrebounded KK Zagreb CO 38-26 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a very good performance for Croatian point guard Jakov Vladovic (186-83) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 assists. Croatian center Darko Planinic (211-90) contributed with 16 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four HKK Siroki WWin players scored in double figures. Center Mario Kasun (213-80) answered with 19 points and 8 rebounds and forward Krunoslav Simon (197-85) added 14 points in the effort for KK Zagreb CO. Both coaches tested many bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Bosnian champion moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Radnicki K. Defending Croatian champion KK Zagreb CO keeps the sixth position with six games lost. HKK Siroki WWin will face Helios (#12) in Domzale in the next round.
Top scorers:
KK Zagreb CO: M.Kasun 19+8reb+1ast, K.Simon 14+3ast, A.Masic 13+3ast, D.Mulaomerovic 8+3ast, P.Babic 8+6reb+2ast, S.May 6+4reb+1ast
Siroki WWin: J.Vladovic 19+4reb+4ast, D.Planinic 16+9reb+1ast, Z.Sakic 12+5reb+2ast, B.Barac 10+3reb+3ast, I.Ramljak 9+6reb+4ast, D.Persic 7
gschID: 166498


Krka - Zlatorog 72-67

The most interesting game of round 13 was a derby match between two teams from Slovenia. The game took place in Novo Mesto where eleventh ranked Krka won against visiting Zlatorog (2-11) 72-67. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Zlatorog won third quarter 21-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Zoran Dragic (196-89) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Jure Balazic (204-80) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Four Krka players scored in double figures. Forward Jaka Brodnik (203-92) answered with 19 points and guard Danijel Vujasinovic (180-89) added 7 points and 9 assists in the effort for Zlatorog. Zlatorog's coach Ivan Sunara rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending Slovenian champion (4-9) moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Hemofarm. Zlatorog lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 11 games lost. Krka is looking forward to face league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Zlatorog will play on the road against the league's leader Maccabi T-A (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Zlatorog: J.Brodnik 19+2reb+1ast, J.Skific 12+2reb+1ast, L.Lapornik 9+9reb+1ast, A.Omic 9+7reb+1ast, D.Vujasinovic 7+3reb+9ast, G.Mali 6+3reb
Krka: Z.Dragic 19+6reb+1ast, J.Balazic 16+4reb+3ast, J.Baxter 11+2reb+5ast, M.Abdul-Hamid 11+5reb+1ast, E.Muric 4+2reb+1ast, M.Djurkovic 4+3reb
gschID: 133012


Helios - Cibona 78-76

A very interesting game took place in Domzale. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Croatian Cibona (7-6) to thirteenth ranked Slovenian Helios (3-10) 78-76 on Friday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-18. But Cibona won second period 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Helios forced 19 Cibona turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Cibona helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard D.J. Gay (183-89, college: San Diego St.) fired 26 points and 6 steals for the winners. Guard Klemen Prepelic (191-92) chipped in 18 points. Helios' coach Zmagoslav Sagadin allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Guard Davor Kus (191-78, agency: Interperformances) produced 19 points and 5 assists and center Andrija Zizic (207-80, agency: Beo Basket) added 18 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Cibona players scored in double figures. Helios moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Crvena Zvezda. Cibona at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. Helios' next round opponent will be higher ranked HKK Siroki WWin (#9) in Siroki Brijeg and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Cibona: D.Kus 19+4reb+5ast, A.Zizic 18+7reb, A.Barbour 17+1reb+1ast, J.Lalic 10+6reb, D.Rudez 6, B.Chase 2+2reb
Helios: D.Gay 26+4reb, K.Prepelic 18+2reb+1ast, D.Bubnic 11+4reb+2ast, D.Jeftic 7+2reb+1ast, M.Markovic 6+3reb+1ast, D.Pasalic 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 133013


Partizan - Crvena Zvezda 85-67

One of the most interesting games of round 13 was a derby match between two teams from Serbia. The game took place in Beograd where third ranked Partizan won against visiting Zvezda (3-10) 85-67. It looked good early as Zvezda took an 6-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Partizan had a 27-14 second period charge getting the lead and Zvezda was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 67-85. Partizan made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Partizan especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Zvezda was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Dragan Milosavljevic (198-89) stepped up and scored 23 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots) for the winners and forward Vladimir Lucic (202-89, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). Four Partizan players scored in double figures. At the losing side center Petar Popovic (211-79) responded with 10 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Omar Thomas (197-82, college: UTEP) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending Serbian champion maintains third place with 9-4 record having just three points less than leader Maccabi T-A, which they share with Buducnost. Zvezda at the other side keeps the twelfth position with ten games lost. They share it with Helios. Partizan will play against KK Zagreb CO (#6) at home in the next round. Zvezda will play against Hemofarm (#11) in Vrsac and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Crvena Zvezda: O.Thomas 12+5reb+1ast, A.Milutinovic 11+2reb, P.Popovic 10+9reb, M.Ilic 8+6reb+2ast, N.Nedovic 7+2reb+1ast, B.Subotic 6+3reb
Partizan: D.Milosavljevic 23+3reb+2ast, V.Lucic 15+6reb+2ast, A.Law 11+1reb+5ast, D.Kecman 10+6reb+1ast, M.Cakarevic 8+10reb+3ast, M.Raduljica 7+3reb
gschID: 133015


Round 6
Hemofarm - Maccabi T-A 59-85

Very predictable result when second ranked Israeli Maccabi T-A (12-1) rolled over 10th ranked Serbian Hemofarm (4-9) in Vrsac 85-59 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 52-22 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Maccabi T-A looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Quite impressive performance for American swingman Keith Langford (193-83, college: Kansas) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 6 rebounds. His fellow American import center Shawn James (208-83, college: Northeastern, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Montenegrin power forward Ivan Maras (208-86, agency: Beo Basket) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds and forward Boris Savovic (206-87) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Hemofarm. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Israeli champion keeps a position of league leader. Hemofarm lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with nine games lost. Maccabi T-A will face bottom-ranked Zlatorog (#14) in Lasko in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Hemofarm will play at home against Zvezda (#13) in Beograd.
Top scorers:
Hemofarm: I.Maras 13+13reb+3ast, B.Savovic 13+9reb+1ast, M.Jeremic 9+1reb+2ast, M.Pantic 6+5reb+1ast, M.Sutalo 5+2reb, N.Dangubic 4
Maccabi T-A: K.Langford 18+6reb+2ast, S.James 15+7reb+2ast, L.Eliyahu 15+4reb+2ast, G.Pnini 11+1reb, R.Hendrix 9+4reb+3ast, T.Papaloukas 5+3reb+6ast
gschID: 165779




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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Simon, Radnicki K.20.3 
 2. Panic, Zlatorog17.5 
 3. Scott, Radnicki K.17.1 
 4. Vucevic, Buducnost16.9 
 5. Simon, KK.16.9 
 6. Pilepic, Siroki W.15.7 
 7. Morrison, Crvena Z.15.5 
 8. Kasun, KK.15.4 
 9. Prepelic, Helios14.8 
 10. Pavkovic, Radnick.14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Boris SAVOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Savovic, Hemofarm12.1 
 2. Vucevic, Buducnost9.7 
 3. Simon, Radnicki K.7.8 
 4. Kasun, KK.6.8 
 5. Scott, Radnicki K.6.6 
 6. Pasalic, Helios6.1 
 7. Popovic, Crvena Z.5.9 
 8. Pavic, Krka5.7 
 9. Pekovic, Partizan5.5 
 10. May, KK.5.4 
Assists Per Game
 Steven MARKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (190-G-85)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Markovic, Radnicki8.6 
 2. Pavkovic, Radnicki7.4 
 3. Farmar, Maccabi6.2 
 4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.5.2 
 5. Vladovic, Siroki W.4.6 
 6. Stinson, Krka4.5 
 7. Mulaomerovic, KK Z.4.3 
 8. Papaloukas, Macca.4.3 
 9. Draper, Cedevita4.2 
 10. Covic, Crvena Z.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 D.J. GAY
  Helios
  (183-G-89)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Gay, Helios2.3 
 2. Dragic, Krka2.0 
 3. Draper, Cedevita1.8 
 4. Markovic, Radnicki1.7 
 5. Zubcic, Cibona1.7 
 6. Simon, KK.1.7 
 7. Pilepic, Siroki W.1.7 
 8. Papaloukas, Macca.1.6 
 9. Ohayon, Maccabi1.5 
 10. Lucic, Partizan1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn JAMES
  Maccabi T-A
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. James, Maccabi T-A1.3 
 2. Vucevic, Buducnost1.1 
 3. Simon, Radnicki K.1.0 
 4. Scott, Radnicki K.1.0 
 5. Hendrix, Maccabi0.9 
 6. Ilic, Crvena Zvezda0.8 
 7. Kasun, KK.0.8 
 8. Savovic, Hemofarm0.8 
 9. Pekovic, Partizan0.8 
 10. Jordan, Krka0.7 


*****************************************************
  ALBANIA   


Basket Kamza in negotiations with Dickel and Simanov - by Arnold Laperi
Accoriding to Basket Kamza head coach, Adem Muhametaj, the team is in negotiations with former New Zealand Tall Black, Mark Dickel, and Bulgarian-born Sergei Simanov. Muhametaj stated in an interview for AlbanianSport.net, 'We are in need of guards, if these two players sign, we will surely be champions this season.' Nevertheless, there is speculation if Basket Kamza has the financial means to sign imports, let alone a star like Dickel, who in the past has also served as the head coach for the Albanian men's national team. In the coming days, speculation should turn to fact.

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


Sionista tab Fabricio Vay - by Eurobasket News
Sionista strengthened their roster. They brought in Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances). The forward is meant to replace Locatelli who is sidelined with injury. Fabricio Vay started the season in Austria. He played for Arkadia Lions. The forward notched 20.0 points, 8.6 boards, 5.0 boards and 2.6 steals per appearance. Last season Fabricio Vay also played for the Arkadia Lions. His stats read 19.5 points, 7.6 boards, 3.3 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Eurobasket.com named Fabricio Vay All-Austrian League Player of the Year. The forward was the member of Argentinean National Team in 2009. He had stints in Italy, D-League, Spain, Hungary and Argentina.



*****************************************************
  ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS   


WABA 2012's Schedule announced - by Omar Shafaamri
The schedule for the high-profile WABA League 2012 has been announced with defending champions Al Riyadi Beirut tipping off the proceedings in Group A with a game against Yemens Al Tilal on Jan 11. Iranian clubs Petrochimi and Zob Ahan will duel in the second game of the opening day.

Five teams each will be involved in an all-play-all round robin in two groups with the top four from each group qualifying to the play-offs quarterfinals.

All games of both groups in the Preliminary Round will be played in Beirut. Group A games will be played from Jan 11-15 with Group B engagements scheduled for Jan 25-29.

Groupings for the Preliminary Round
Group A: Al Riyadi Beirut (LIB), Zob Ahan (IRI), Petro Chimi (IRI), Al Riyadi Aramex (JOR), Al Tilal (YEM)
Group B: Mahram (IRI), Champville (LIB), Al Moutahed (LIB), ASU (JOR), Duhok (IRQ)

FIBA Asia

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


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


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


Limeira sign Steve Toyloy - by Paulo Freire
The american center Steven Toyloy (203-C-87, college: Cincinnati) was announced as the new hiring of Winner/Limeira for the following NBB 2011-2012 season. The big man was playing in Libertad of Paraguay, where he won the runner-up spot and was voted as the best foreigner of the competition.

Steven Toyloy was born on October 6, 1987 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Played two seasons (2008-09 and 2009-10) in the NCAA, where he played for the University of Cincinnati. In 2010 he was hired by Istanbulspor, Turkey, where he avarege 9.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. In a quick passage through 2011 he played in Uruguay.

The player arrived in Limeira last Saturday (31) and performed his first workout with the team on the morning of the monday. The direct Board of Limeira runs to regularize the documentation of the athlete in the country and the center does not yet have date selected to debut at NBB.

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


London Lightning Announce Addition of Braxton Dupree - by Eurobasket Center
The first place London Lightning (NBL Canada) are pleased to announce the addition of Braxton Dupree (203-F-118kg-89, college: Towson, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) to their NBL Canada roster, effective immediately. Dupree is a 6'8' forward from Towson University, who adds a dimension of rebounding and defense to the Lightning.

Lightning General Manager, Taylor Brown, had this to say about the acquisition. 'We were lucky to get Braxton as he was coveted by many other teams after coming from Israel. Hopefully he fits in with our team this late in the season.'

As mentioned, Dupree played Division I NCAA basketball during his collegiate career. Most recently, he was playing in Israel first for Maccabi Ashdod and then was loaned to Ironi Nes-Ziona. While playing 7 games for Ironi Nes-Ziona this season he averaged 8.9ppg and 6.3rpg. Local Lightning fans will have their first chance to see Dupree in action on New Year's Day at 2 pm against Moncton.



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


Chinese CBA round 19 best performance: Gani Lawal - by Eurobasket News
Nigerian forward Gani Lawal (206-F-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Xinjiang F.T., receiving a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 23-year old player had a double-double of 27 points and 24 rebounds, while his team beat Shanxi Zh. (#10, 8-9) 100-94. Xinjiang F.T. maintains the 8th position in Chinese CBA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Xinjiang F.T. will need more victories to improve their 9-7 record. Lawal turned to be Xinjiang F.T.'s top player in his first season with the team.

The second best player in last round's games was 30-year old American Charles Gaines (201-F-81) of Shanxi Zh.. Gaines had a very good evening with a double-double of 33 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Shanxi Zh. lost that game 94-100 to slightly higher-ranked Xinjiang F.T. (#8, 9-7). This loss caused Shanxi Zh. to drop to 10th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-9 record. Gaines is a newcomer at Shanxi Zh., but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 28.4ppg (#5). He also registered 12.9 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Lester Hudson (191-G-84) of Qingdao DS (#12). Hudson got into 30-points club by scoring 37 points in the last round. He went also for eight rebounds and twelve assists. He was a key player of Qingdao DS, leading his team to a 93-81 win against the higher-ranked Guangsha L. (#3, 13-5). The chances of Qingdao DS not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 11 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Hudson could try to bring Qingdao DS's a little bit higher in the standings. Hudson has individually a great season in China. After 18 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 33.3ppg (2nd best) and assists with 6.2apg (2nd best). He also has 3.4spg and FGP: 54.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Randolph Morris (211-F/C-86) of Beijing Ducks - 35 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Mike Harris (198-F-83) of Shanghai S. - 36 points and 7 rebounds
6. Donnell Harvey (203-F/C-80) of TianJin R. - 26 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
7. James Singleton (203-F-81) of Guandong ST - 18 points, 22 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Lei Wang (203-F-86) of Bayi Fubang - 28 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83) of DongGuan L. - 28 points and 16 rebounds
10. Will McDonald (211-C-79) of Fujian XX - 30 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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


Josh Dollard Out at SLUNETA Usti nad Labem - by Surujh Roopnarine
A tumultuous end to 2011 is finally over for SLUNETA Usti nad Labem, as the club announced that they have parted ways with American forward Joshua Dollard (203-F-86, college: USC Aiken) (www.nbl.cz). The 25-year old Joshua Dollard joined the club in November and appeared in seven games, averaging 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals while playing nearly 22 minutes per contest.

The loss of Joshua Dollard comes on the heals of LeKendric Longmire leaving the club in the middle of December due to family reasons.
Dollard has played professionally Switzerland, Canada and the Dominican Repuiblic after finishing his collegiate career in 2009 at NCAA2 University of South Carolina-Aiken.

In other news, the team also announced that they and youngster Matus Kuchalik (200-F/G-90) had agreed to part ways.



CEZ Nymburk Runs Over Plzen 95-63 on Monday Night - by Surujh Roopnarine
Top-ranked CEZ Nymburk improved to 19-1 on the season with a dominating road-victory over BK Loko Interconex Plzen last night. Big men Petr Benda (203-F/C-82) and Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) dominated, scoring 20 and 21 points respectively for Nymburk, against an undersized Plzen frontcourt which was minus veteran center Pavel Frana. Nymburk dominated on the glass as well, out-rebounding the hosts 44-24, including 13-4 on the offensive glass. Plzen, which drops to 5-16 on the season, was led by Ladislav Toth (196-F-83) who scored a team-high 18 points.
PLZEN: Ladislav Toth (18pts), Ladislav Pecka (197-F-91) (10pts), Stepan Vrubl (186-G-76) (8pts+5reb+7to), Filip Smid (194-SG-92) (8pts),
NYMBURK: Lamayne Wilson (21pts+7reb), Petr Benda (20pts), Lukas Palyza (204-F-89) (14pts), A.J. Abrams (180-G-86, college: Texas) (9pts)


Ivan Vojtko Steps Down as Head Coach of ASK Inter Bratislava; Bridgewaters and Williams Out as Well - by Surujh Roopnarine
47-Year old Ivan Vojtko on Monday stepped down as Head Coach of BK Inter Bratislava. Vojtko took over the reigns of Inter Bratislava on November 7th after replacing former head man Stevan Tot . Vojtko won his first game on November 12th against rival Astrum Levice, but went just 2-6 in his eight games, and was coming off of an embarrassing 41-point loss on the road against USK Praha on Friday night.
Assistant coach Richard Duris will take over control of running the team.
At just 3-17 on the season, Inter is currently tied with Opava last place in the 14-team Mattoni NBL.

In addition to the resignation of Vojtko, manager Michal Ondrus announced that the team and Kevin Bridgewaters (175-G-84, college: Chattanooga) and Morakinyo Williams (213-C-88, college: Citadel) have parted ways. Bridgewaters, a 5-9 guard out of Chattanooga appeared in 14 games for Inter this season and was the team's leading scorer at 14.9ppg while also leading he team in assists (2.9apg). Williams, a 7-0 center from England, who finished his collegiate career at Citadel, was in his first pro season and averaged 4.9 points and 2.6 rebounds while being just one of two players to appear in all 20 games this season for Inter.
After the changes, the team is left with the following import players who should see of plenty of action the rest of the way; Opening season holdover Stjepan Gavran, Mitar Trivunovic and Mihajlo Pesic who both arrived in November and point guard Emanuel Ubilla who came right before the holidays.

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


Whiteside is back at Reno Bighorns - by Eurobasket Center
Reno Bighorns agreed terms with 23-year old power forward Hassan Whiteside (213-C/F-107kg-89, college: Marshall). Its actually Whitesides comeback to Reno B. as he played here before. In his first game he scored 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds helping his new team beat Ft.Wayne MA 116-103. Whiteside played most recently at Sacramento Kings (NBA). He graduated Marshall University in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 26.7
 1. Ahearn, Reno B.26.7 
 2. Costner, Los A.25.7 
 3. Millsap, Los A.23.7 
 4. Dentmon, Austin T.21.7 
 5. Emmett, Reno B.21.6 
 6. Mitchell, Sioux F.20.7 
 7. Howard, Ft.Wayne.20.0 
 8. Moses Randal., Iow.19.8 
 9. Biggs, Canton C.19.6 
 10. Garcia, Sioux F.19.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 14.4
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers14.4 
 2. Famous, Iowa E.11.0 
 3. Milligan, Canton C.10.8 
 4. Dawson, Austin T.10.3 
 5. Thomas, Reno B.10.1 
 6. Harris, Maine RC9.6 
 7. Daniels, Erie B.9.6 
 8. Brown, Springfield9.4 
 9. Foote, Springfield9.1 
 10. Reid, Tulsa 66ers8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.9.7 
 2. Sloan, Erie Bay H.8.4 
 3. Tinsley, Los A.7.6 
 4. Coleman, Sioux F.7.5 
 5. Cooksey, Texas L.7.3 
 6. Ewing, Iowa E.7.0 
 7. Ahearn, Reno B.6.8 
 8. Baker, Dakota W.6.5 
 9. Bailey, Idaho S.6.4 
 10. Bozeman, Reno B.6.2 
Steals Per Game
 Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Millsap, Los A.3.3 
 2. Curry, Springfield2.4 
 3. Tinsley, Los A.2.4 
 4. Baker, Dakota W.2.4 
 5. Fortson, Los A.2.3 
 6. Harris, Rio G.2.1 
 7. Dyson, Tulsa 66ers2.1 
 8. Coleman, Sioux F.2.1 
 9. Hamilton, Los A.2.0 
 10. Dentmon, Austin2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Foster, Idaho S.3.5 
 2. Daniels, Erie B.2.4 
 3. Thompson, Erie B.2.0 
 4. Dove, Dakota W.1.9 
 5. Tisdale, Maine RC1.6 
 6. Anderson, Dakota1.6 
 7. Fazekas, Reno B.1.5 
 8. Kent, Maine RC1.5 
 9. Ojougboh, Tulsa1.4 
 10. Sensley, Rio G.1.4 


Reno Bighorns sign Tyler Honeycutt - by Eurobasket Center
Reno Bighorns signed 22-year old forward Tyler Honeycutt (203-F-90kg-90, college: UCLA). In his first game he scored 4 points helping his new team beat Ft.Wayne MA 116-103. Honeycutt played most recently at Sacramento Kings (NBA). While playing 1 game for Sacramento K. this season he recorded 2points and 1 rebound. Honeycutt just graduated Univ.of Calif.at Los Angeles and actually missed last season. It will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U16 smashed Sweden U16 in the opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Estonia U16 47:73

Estonia U16 smashed Sweden U16 at the opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side started with an easy 73:47 victory.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Estonia did not waste the time and grabbed an early lead. The host finished the first period with 22-8 and added 24-16 in the second frame. Moreover they produced 15-14 in the third quarter and finished the game with 12-9 in the last stanza.
Karl Jurjens (193-F-96) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) notched 13. Kristofer Kurvits (192-G/F-96) delivered 7, while Ken Lill and Marko Meimer (197-F-96) scored 6 apiece. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) and William Skagius ended up with 11 points each in defeat, whilst Michael Traore scored 8.

Sweden U16: Erik Johansson 11, William Skagius 11, Michael Traore 8
Estonia U16: Karl Jurjens 17, Jaagup Russak 13, Kristofer Kurvits 7, Ken Lill 6, Marko Meimer 6

Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U18 edged Sweden U18 in a thriller - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Estonia U18 66:68

Estonia U18 edged Sweden U18 at the start of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side celebrated 68:66 defensive win to start successfully.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Sweden started with 18-17 in the first period, but the guests could not win the half. The Estonian team grabbed the advantage at the halftime due to 21-15 in the second quarter. Sweden meanwhile produced two minor victories in the second half, however it was not enough for the total success.
Sander Saare (180-PG-94) stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Aleksis Anijarv (180-G-94) added 13. Martin Jurtom (197-F-94) collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while Saimon Sutt (195-G/F-95) scored 6. Jesper Eliasson (201-F-94) finished the game with 16 points and Niklas Larsson (196-G-94) scored 9 in defeat.

Sweden U18: Jesper Eliasson 16, Niklas Larsson 9, Hannes Erhardt (203-F/C-94) 8
Estonia U18: Sander Saare 16, Aleksis Anijarv 13, Martin Jurtom 8+10 rebs, Saimon Sutt 6

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


Partizan suspends Acie Law indefinitely - by Eurobasket News
Partizan Belgrade doesn't count on Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) any longer. The Serbian powerhouse suspended American point guard indefinitely and already officially informed FIBA about this move. Law didn't appear at Partizan's practice after the Christmas/New Year holidays. Acie Law supposed to return to Belgrade on January 2, but he informed Head Coach Vlada Jovanovic via text message that he made a decision not to play for Partizan any longer. The reigning Serbian and Adriatic league champion signed a one-season deal with Law last July and the agreement doesn't include NBA out option. Acie Law appeared 9 times in Euroleague this season averaging 12.7 points, 3.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. He also added 9.2 ppg, 2.5 apg and 1.9 rpg for 13 Adriatic league games. Partizan was close to reach Euroleague Top 16, but they didn't make it at the end. In the regional championship they have 9-4 record. Partizan is currently 3rd ranked team in the league.

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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 started with the win over Finland U18 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18-Finland U18 72:65

Latvia U18 started with the win over Finland U18 at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The winners celebrated 72:65 victory in the opener for U18 teams.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Latvia started with 19-15, but allowed the opponents to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. Moreover Finland needed 16-15 in the third quarter to trail one point entering the last period, while Latvia finished the game with 23-17 to seal the victory.
Ivars Zvigurs (193-G-95) paced all the winners with 17 points and Sandis Ceplitis nailed 13. Roberts Stelmahers (192-G-74) netted 10, while Roberts Krastins (194-F-94) posted 9. Joonas Lehtoranta (185-F/G-94) ended up with 18 points in the losing effort, while Mikael Kauhanen (202-F-94) collected 15 points and 10 boards. Orlando Taylor followed them with 8 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Ivars Zvigurs 17, Sandis Ceplitis 13, Roberts Stelmahers 10, Roberts Krastins 9
Finland U18: Joonas Lehtoranta 18, Mikael Kauhanen 15+10 rebs, Orlando Taylor 8

Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U16 rolled over Finland U16 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Finland U16 61:52

Latvia U16 rolled over Finland U16 61:52 in the capital of Estonia. Both teams started their Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Finland took 18-17 after the first period but they could not take the lead at the end of the half. Latvia bounced back with 16-10 in the second quarter and grabbed 33:28 halftime advantage. Moreover they added 15-10 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Gustavs Treimanis top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Rudolfs Stradnieks nailed 14. Artis Arnitis notched 11 and Davis Cima posted 8. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) delivered 13 points in the losing case and Tuomas Hirvonen scored 9.

Latvia U16: Gustavs Treimanis 20+10 rebs, Rudolfs Stradnieks 14, Artis Arnitis 11, Davis Cima 8
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 13, Tuomas Hirvonen 9

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


Nancy bring in Bernard King - by Eurobasket News
Nancy officially announced the signing of Bernard King (196-G-81, college: Texas A&M). The guard started the season in Chalons-Reims. Bernard King posted 12.8 points, 3.3 boards, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steal per game in ProB. Last season Bernard King played for Le Havre. The guard notched 14.6 points, 5.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game in ProA. Previously Bernard King had stints in Cyprus, Latvia, Turkey, Israel and NBDL. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-Latvian League 1st Team in 2009. He also made it into All-EuroCup Challenge 2nd Team in 2007. Bernard King was the Cyprus Cup winner with Keravnos in 2007. He also won the Latvian League with BK Ventspils in 2009.


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


Can Bjoern Harmsen Bring Some Pat Riley Success And Glitz To The Giessen 46ers? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Recently two German head coaches Sebastian Machowski and Bjoern Harmsen stood head to head in the always bedlam like atmosphere of the Osthalle in Giessen and their demenour and style couldnt have been more opposite with the Braunschweig pooh bah Machowski staying calm for most of the game while the Giessen skipper Harmsen jumping around like a small displeased boy not getting any candy in his Christmas stocking and constantly having one on one talks with his players after mistakes especially with Achmadschah Zazai and discussing with referees as if he was playing the lottery with getting possible technical fouls. For years, Harmsen has been prowling the Beko BBL sidelines and has been known for being the youngest coach in the league getting his first taste of the top German league in 2007 with Science City Jena. He then moved a bit more east to the Mitteldeutscher BC where it didnt take him long to shape the 2004 Fiba cup winner into an almost Beko BBL playoff team in 2010 just missing the playoffs by a hair. When examining the German closer, you see a mix between German actor Ralf Richter in one of his evil roles in the famous German crime show Ein fall Fur zwei with his glasses and the legendary ex Los Angeles Lakers head coach Pat Riley with his slicked back hair. Harmsen is a basketball junkie who already released his book at age 20 Basketball emotional-With mental strength to success. He got tips from famous Spanish coach Sergio Scariolo as well as German coach Dirk Bauermann. Harmsen has understood in the last years, how to make mediocre teams into better teams and is slowly on his way to making the LTi Giessen 46ers into a team that wants nothing to do with the Beko BBL cellar. Harmsen is an intense coach. He brings good tactical skills to the court and has had success with lower budget teams in this league. I definitely dont want to see his hair gel bill, joked New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig center Kyle Visser. One Giessen 46ers who definitely knows how the coaching clock of Harmsen ticks is Serb radenko Pilcevic who is playing his third season for the German coach. A coach that he looks up to is the Spanish coach Sergio Scariolo. He has a lot of experience, knows how to work with players and makes for a good atmosphere. I remember my first season with MBC, we played very well and we needed one win to reach the playoffs. We beat all the top teams that season like Bamberg, Alba Berlin, Artland and Oldenburg. The season was a lot of fun and I remember most how he waited for me to play well and had so much trust in my game, added Radenko Pilcevic. Harmsen sticks to details, can motivate players well and just plays European basketball, stressed ex Giessen 46er and 2009 beko BBL champion with Oldenburg Marco Buljevic.

On January 2, the Fraport Skyliners will visit the LTi Giessen 46ers and a A very big special quality about the Hessen derby is that the two cities are only 65 kilometers apart, which gives fans the opportunity to be at both games. This is a charmed quality of service in the BBL that the distances are not as far, but in the NBA for example in a Lon Angeles-Boston series, it is very rare for fans to travel around the NBA, unless your actor Jack Nicholson, who can travel with a private jet, champagne and some models clinging from his arms. The Frankfurt-Giessen series is so close in comparison to NBA standards as if a kid had to only walk down the street to get some candy in the drug store. The two cities are are in size as different as are the skyscraper Messe turm in Frankfurt and a two story University building in Giessen. The town of Giessen is known as a University location and almost half of the population are students. Giessen is one of the few cities in Germany that has a Budhist temple and one of Electronic music most known German DJs Chris Liebing. Giessen is diminutive, but have a huge heart for Basketball.Giessen loves Basketball! It is tradition there, added Murat Didin.

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

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

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

The Fraport Skyliners may not have had the best start this season, but are slowly starting to recover thanks to their extremely strong and proud play on the road as they will be seeking their fourth win in a row on the road as they enter the Osthalle with a positive 4-3 road record. The Fraport Skyliners still have some injury woes, but seemed to have played their best when confronted with tough injuries and undermanned line ups. The team hope that new point guard Devin Gibson can give his debut in Giessen. The 182cm rookie played at the University of Texas at San Antonio and recently performed at the San Antonio Spurs training camp. If Frankfurt can play like they did in Braunschweig then they will have good chances with their fighting mentality. Having Davidson play well and controlling their guards and denying Ovcina in the low post will be key for getting a win in Giessen, stressed ex EnBW Ludwigsburg center Kyle Visser. Frankfurt continue to do an excellent job limiting turnovers especially against press defense and will need to do it again in Giessen. Frankfurt has to take care of the ball and limit their turnovers against the Giessen press, warned Braunschweig sharp shooter Lamarr Greer. LTi Giessen guard Radenko Pilcevic already did his homework early about how to beat Frankfurt. We have to play tough defense like we did against Braunschweig. Frankfurt is better with the recent good play of Davidson and Burtschi. We have to stop these two guys, warned Radenko Pilcevic. If the game goes down to the wire, then Frankfurt should know which 46er will get the ball in his hand. Jeffers is our x-factor. He will get the ball in the deciding moment, warned Achmadschau Zazai. my ex teammate Jeffers brings a difference to the game when it counts, warned Michael Umeh.

In the last years, The Skyliners have dominated the Hessen derby posting a 10-2 record. Frankfurt has demonstrated a special confidence and calmness that makes the Osthalle in Giessen look more like their own personal lounge area than a hostile Giessen playground with naughty kids throwing sticks and stones. Who could forget the onslaught before Christmas 2005 as Frankfurt routed Giessen 96 to 63 with seven three pointers from Desmond Ferguson. I had a good rhythm going on in that game and my teammates made a good job getting me the ball. I wasnt able to find my rhythm much while I played in Frankfurt for various reasons, but that game was probably my highlight playing there, added ex Skyliner Desmond Ferguson. Three years ago under the guidance of Charles Barton, Frankfurt won a nail bitter 73 to 67 as Frankfurt showed nerves of steal in the dwindling minutes of the fourth quarter. Two years ago, Frankfurt won a tight game, even though it seemed like they were never in any real danger of losing as Derrick Allen led the team with 19 points and an energized Alex King flew into the arena with a specially made superman cape and steered the team off the bench scoring in double figures. Who could forget the buzzer beater by Karlsruhe German Rouven Roessler in 2007? Well that game winning shot that beat Frankfurt was 34 months ago, and Roessler still has the shot dancing in his dreams. I remember that buzzer beater as if it was yesterday. I got the video clip to the game three weeks ago, said ex Giessen 46er Rouven Roessler. . In the 2008-2009 season, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners won in Giessen 75-57 getting 19 points form Lorenzo Gordon. In Frankfurt, they pounded Giessen 93-72 as Pascal Roller and in 2009-2010, Frankfurt won at home 80-69 getting 22 points from Derrick Allen. The last game against Giessen was a nail bitter win by Frankfurt in Giessen which was won 69-68 as Pascal Roller won the game with 13 seconds to play with two free throws. In the first meeting last season Frankfurt won 82-64 as Giessen was outscored 48-21 in the second half. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Dashaun Wood with 21 points and Roger Powell added 18 points. In the second meeting in Frankfurt, Giessen lost 81-62 as Dashaun Wood scored 26 points. The last time that Frankfurt lost was in December 2002 and they have won the last eight games in a row against Giessen.

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

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

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

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

The team also got Misan Nikagbatse who is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Berlin that has the German/Nigerian citizenship. He can play both point and shooting guard. Can also rebound in the traffic. He has impressive physical skills, with an explosive leaping ability. He started his basketball career in 1998 with Lichterfelde Berlin. He already had NBA scouts after him after playing at the Albert Schweitzer Junior Championships in Mannheim (Germany) in 2000 where he was (Best Scorer -27.8ppg): All-Star 1st Team. He seemed to be near the jump to the NBA and went to top Euroleague team Olympiakos Pireus (Greece) in 2000, but never really found his role there as he played only a total of 41 games but got good experience playing 21 Euroleague games before being transported off to Italy. In 2003-2004, he returned to Germany playing with theMitteldeutscher Basketball Club winning the Fiba Europe Cup playing FIBA Europe Cup: 10 games: 9.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg; German 1.Bundesliga: 28 games: 11.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.9apg, 1.6spg, 3.0bpg. He then had a steady career in Italy from 2004-2007 playing for Euro Roseto, Cantu and Premiata Montegranaro. He then returned to Germany to play for : Koeln 99ers in 2007-2008 playing ULEB Cup: 8 games: 7.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 52%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 62.5%; German League: 15 games: 8.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 69.8%. In 2008-2009, he played for Cimberio Varese (Italy-Lega2): 23 games: 6.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 75.7%. From 2009-2011, he didnt play professional basketball as he played for DBV Charlottenburg (Germany-2.Regionalliga). Matthias Perl is a 22 year old 188cm quick point guard that is a relentless defender. He has been playing for Giessen teams since 2004 when he started for the MTV Giessen cadet team. He then played for VfB Giessen (Regionalliga) before playing for LTi Lich (ProA) from 2007-2009. In 2009-2010, he played for LTi Giessen 46ers (1.Bundesliga): 7 games: 0.7ppg; also played at Licher Basket Baeren (ProB): 28 games: 5.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 73.5%. Last season, he for Giessen he played 16 games: 1.6ppg, 1.0rpg. The LTi Giessen 46ers host the Fraport Skyliners on January 2nd, 2012 at 20:00.





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


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Brown, EWE Baskets18.3 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.17.5 
 3. Carter, Phoenix16.9 
 4. Foster, B.Muenchen15.5 
 5. Jonusas, Phoenix15.2 
 6. Swann, Ratiopharm15.1 
 7. Ensminger, Teleko.15.1 
 8. Leuer, Fraport SKY14.8 
 9. Wood, ALBA14.5 
 10. Jeffers, LTi 46ers14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.7 
 2. Ensminger, Teleko.8.3 
 3. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.3 
 4. Davidson, Fraport7.9 
 5. Evans, Goettingen7.9 
 6. Leuer, Fraport SKY7.8 
 7. Sykes, Goettingen7.1 
 8. Watts, Ratiopharm6.9 
 9. Zirbes, TBB Trier6.6 
 10. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Jordan, Telekom7.4 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.5.8 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.3 
 4. Brown, EWE Baskets5.2 
 5. Wood, ALBA5.1 
 6. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 7. Campbell, Walter T.4.5 
 8. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.5 
 9. Gibson, Bayreuth4.4 
 10. Everett, Bremerha.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Linhart, TBB Trier1.9 
 2. Dorris, EnBW L.1.7 
 3. Holston, Art.Drag.1.6 
 4. Redding, Walter T.1.5 
 5. Wood, ALBA1.5 
 6. Kramer, s.Oliv.1.4 
 7. Crowe, Phoenix1.4 
 8. Carter, Phoenix1.4 
 9. Bernard, LTi 46ers1.3 
 10. Jacobson, s.Oliv.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekenechukwu IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Ibekwe, Bayreuth2.1 
 2. Slaughter, Brose B.1.8 
 3. Gaffney, Teleko.1.8 
 4. Looby, EnBW L.1.7 
 5. Davidson, Fraport1.5 
 6. Pleiss, Brose B.1.4 
 7. King, Art.Dragons1.3 
 8. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.1 
 9. Redding, Walter T.1.0 
 10. Boone, s.Oliver.0.9 


Marius Nolte Uses The Force In Crunch Time Propelling The Fraport Skyliners to a 64-56 Victory In The Hessen Derby - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


With 2012 just born and The Fraport Skyliners riding on a hot and smooth three game winning streak on the road, the club was able to continue their untypical but charming potent play on the road winning their fourth game in a row away from their living room winning for the ninth time in a row against the LTi Giessen 46ers 64-56 and keeping the traditional basketball team winless since 109 months against Frankfurt dating back to December seventh where guys like Kai Nurnberger, Mario Kasun and Robert Maras were still roaming the floor for the Skyliners. Rivalries in pro sports is nothing uncommon as the NBA lives by having the Boston Celtics-Los Angeles Lakers tug of war basketball struggle each season, MLB has the do or die game mentality between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees and the NHL has the Boston Brunis-Montreal Canadians season bashes. There is a special rivalry in the Beko BBL between Frankfurt and Giessen which not only has the players going at a special extra full tilt, but always challenges the fans at getting a good vocal chord workout as neither organization wants to lose. St Louis native and Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney who has grown into a real team leader has never lost in Giessen as he came into the match as focused as Janet Hubert who played Aunt Viv on the Fresh Prince of Bel Air of never doing a reunion show since she cant stand Mr Man in black Will Smith, actress Kim Kardashian sitting on Santas lap at a Christmas party and looking sweet and not naughty or NBA player Kris Humphries giving a 21 point performance despite being booed each time he touched the ball and Mckinney was able to win his sixth game in a row in Giessen and despite the success was his normal and slick and suave self after the game. I guess I am a type of good luck charm for the Skyliners. This is a great rivalry. It always gets so loud when Giessen goes on a run. The atmosphere reminded a lot of the Vashon-Belmont atmosphere. I remember in the playoffs, there was a projector outside with 300 people watching who couldnt get in. We won with less than a minute to play, stressed Jimmy Mckinney. There was much emotion in this game. We fought and did the best we could. The fans are always loud. It wasnt any different when MBC played Chemnitz. The fans were screaming for minutes, stressed Giessen guard Wayne Bernard. Skyliner forward Jacob Burtschi played his first Hessen derby and was impressed. It was so loud in here that it felt like the fans were on top of you. Their fans almost willed their team to the win. I remember the Hagen-Bonn rivalry, but the Giessen fans are more memorable. Giessen have diehard fans, added Jacob Burtschi.

More often than not, it is big shots that win games, but at times it is also the miniature details that can propel a team to a victory in a close game. Rarely though is it one player that does so many things in a short amount of time that is doing his best at applying for the basketball superman job. Skyliners center and captain Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops) this season isnt usually the player that is on the court in crunch time, but in Giessen, he was the hero in crunch time that might of used some basketball force in helping his team get over the hump to get the win. For all Star wars freaks, a big part of the whole movie series is the use of force that help a Luke Skywalker be able to control what he does. It seemed like a bit of being able to control the force was bestowed upon Nolte who during his hero work in crunch time was able to persuade the referee to change a call to the advantage of his team. Whatever Nolte did in the last minutes, it worked and he was to humble to talk about it after the game, but his teammates knew exactly what he had done. He got one big offensive rebound to keep a play alive, the next time down he got another offensive rebound which led to a basket from him after he got a quick pass from Jimmy Mckinney. The next time down, he blocked Barry Stewart and then got the ref to change a call for our benefit. He was the leader of the pack and why he is our captain, stressed ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi. Giessen might have expected a Mckinney, Davidson or Burtschi to make the clutch plays, but not an Nolte. I have played against Nolte the last years and what I have noticed is that he always brings extra energy to team. He will make the extra hustle play, tip out a ball, make the right pass or get a block. He just makes the big plays, commented Wayne Bernard.

With the fourth consecutive win on the road, The Fraport Sklyiners move up to position 12, while The LTi Giessen 46ers fall back to position 16 and are back in dangerous ground. Giessen lost their fourth game in a row and it was the second time in the last four games that they were close at the end, but couldnt buckle down to get the win. Recently against The New Yorker Phnatoms Braunschweig, they were down by 10 points, made a big comeback, but lost by one point not being able to convert a Mathias Perl lay up on the last play. Against the Fraport Skyliners, they were trailing 57-56 and lost the game with a 7-0 run by the opponent. Frankfurt played very clever and took advantage of the Giessen small mistakes and deserved to win. I think Giessen should never have taken out Achmadschah Zazai. He was doing a good job pressuring the Frankfurt guards and running the offense and should have stayed in, added ex TV Langen player Markus Hallgrimson. Even after keeping Giessen to 56 points and winning on the road again, Skyliner Jacob Burtcshi was careful to keep any unneeded hype getting in the way after the win. This was not our best 40 minutes of basketball, but we were great in spurts and did that better than Giessen did, commented Jacob Burtschi.

New Fraport Skyliner Devin Gibson was in the lineup, but never got off the bench as Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin didnt use his services. It seemed like there was another new player for the Skyliners as one could read on the scoreboard a Bartoschi, but even after a second of not paying attention, it was obvious that that was a misspelling of the name Burtschi. In the first few minutes, there were four lead changes as both teams were still getting used to the loud atmosphere and each other. After Michael Thompson got the Skyliners going with his patent juice floater, Giessen hurried back on a 4-0 run to lead 4-2 with a Elvir Ovcina hook shot and Wayne Bernard free throws. Burtschi who was held scoreless against the Artland Dragons quickly found his touch nailing a three pointer as Frankfurt led 5-4. Ex Skyliner Koko Archibong gave Giessen the lead back 6-5 with a lay up.Ex NBA player Jermareo Davidson then slowly got going hitting two free throws and making a thunderous dunk after getting a Mckinney feed as Frankfurt led 9-6. Frankfurt quickly had their offense flowing and were in control of the game. The only thing that was keeping Frankfurt from taking a big lead was Giessen work horse Elvir Ovcina that was getting the ball and making his shots. Mckinney dropped two three point bombs, but Ovcina hit two jumpers over Davidson as Giessen trailed only 15-12. However the Frankfurt offense continued to be in rhythm as they closed out the first quarter with a 6-2 run to lead 21-14. Thompson made a heads up play finding Burtschi all alone inside for a bucket and Davidson made a layup and dunk. Ovcina closed the first quarter with his own dunk. played very good defense which resulted in some fast break points. We couldnt handle Ovcina and had problems rebounding, stressed Skyliner forward Danilo Barthel. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 57% from the field and 43% from outside while the Lti Giessen 46ers were shooting 67% from the field and 0% from outside. Giessen had the 7-3 rebound edge, but seven turnovers while Frankfurt had three only.

The second quarter was dominated by two 9-0 runs which began with Giessen. The LTi Giessen 46ers returned back to the court stepping up their offense with heated ball movement as Zazai made a nice kick out pass to ex Artland Dragon Chad Prewitt that drowned a three pointer. German Robert Ohle scored inside and Ovcina hit a fade away jumper over Nolte to tie the game at 21-21.Mckinney and Davidson turnovers helped Giessen get back into the game. Zazai then made a free throw and Prewitt made a turn around off balance jumper as Giessen led 24-21. The Fraport Skyliners quickly needed a spark plug and found it with two consecutive bombs from downtown from German national player Johannes Herber leading the Skyliners on a 9-0 run. Thompson added another three pointer as the LTi Giessen 46ers trailed 30-24. In the last few minutes, Koko Archibong got to the free throw line twice, but missed two free throws and ex TBB Trier guard Barry Stewart hit a three pointer. Herber hit a fade away jumper as the second quarter ended and the Fraport Skyliners had the 34-29 lead. The quarter was dominated by runs, but we still played good defense. Herber made some big shots and it was important that we could keep the lead here, expressed Danilo Barthel. The Fraport Sklyiners were shooting 54% from the field and 55% from the three point line while the LTi Giessen 46ers were shooting 55% from the field and 33% from the three point line. Giessen still had the 12-10 rebound edge, but 11 turnovers while Frankfurt had nine turnovers
.
The third quarter was dominated with four runs with two from each team. The LTi Giessen 46ers jumped on theFraport Skyliners first cruising out on a 5-0 run to knot the score at 34-34 as 2005 Beko BBL champion Koko Archibong hit from downtown and Ovcina hit a mid distance jumper. A big strength for the Fraport Skyliners on this evening was their ability to always have an answer when the opponent was threatening. Frankfurt rebounded by going on a 6-0 run to lead 40-34 as Thompson nailed a three pointer and is playing more and more not like a rookie, Davidson snuck inside for a dunk and Nolte made one free throw. Archibong and Mckinney then exchanged baskets as Giessen still trailed 43-36. The momentum kept exchanging hands as quickly as ex US president can smiles at ladies as Giessen went on a 5-0 run and continued just to battle as Ovcina made a seemingly impossible lay up as Nolte, Herber and Burtschi were underneath with their hands up and Bernard buried a three pointer with Mckinney in his face as Frankfurt led only 43-41. However the last thing Frankfurt risked to do was fret as they quickly slammed the third quarter door on Giessen with a 10-2 run to lead comfortably 53-43 after three quarters. Burtschi started the run with a jumper, Thompson got to the free throw line, Robertson nailed a much needed three pointer, Thompson a pull up jumper and Davidson scored inside. Stewart ended the third quarter with two free throws. The third quarter had small runs as no team could set themselves apart. We kept up the defense, built the lead back going into the fourth quarter, stressed Jacob Burtschi. Runs are a part of basketball. We were unconcentrated and couldnt stop the Frankfurt runs, said Achmadschah Zazai. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 57% from the field and 53% from the parking lot while the LTi Giessen 46ers were shooting 52% from the field and 50% from the parking lot. Giessen still had the 18-15 rebound edge, but 15 turnovers while Frankfurt had 12 turnovers.

With ten minutes to play, the LTi Giesssen 46ers didnt wait until the last few minutes, but quickly used an extra burst of energy annoying the Fraport Skyliners with a pesky 9-2 run to cut their lead down to 55-52 and all of a sudden the Giessen Osthalle was rocking as if the Rolling Stones and Miley Cyrus had just entered the building together. Bernard started the comeback with aone handed jumper, Stewart got open hitting a bomb from outside, Ovcina who didnt give up to battle was earning his money with continued hard work scoring inside twice including another trick against three Skyliners down low. Mckinney then hit a big pull up jumper as Frankfurt led 57-52. Young German Robert Ohle then showed his strength coming off the bench taking Giessen on an important mini 4-0 run with a mid distance shot and free throws as Giessen trailed only 57-56. Then came the turning point of the game as Giessen head coach replaced Zazai with Pilcevic and Nolte began to play like a Paderborn superman and play with the force. Nolte retrieved a big offensive rebound kicked the ball back out and Mckinney went inside stepped back and looked like he would shoot, but threw a bullet pass to Nolte who scored. I was at the top of the key and saw that there was still some time on the clock went inside and then went back to shoot, but saw Nolte inside so I passed him the ball, stressed Jimmy Mckinney. Frankfurt stopped Giessen on four offensive plays and Nolte helped with a block and getting the referee to change the call giving Frankfurt the ball. Thompson and Davidson closed out the game with free throws. Our energy helped us at the end to keep the tight lead and win, stressed Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops).Frankfurt defended well at the end. We didnt know who we should give the ball to. Usually it is Maurice Jeffers, but he couldnt play, stressed Achmadschah Zazai. Frankfurt hit big shots and they rotated well. Their big men found their guards who made the shots, added Wayne Bernard.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jermareo Davidson with 16 points, five rebounds, five assists, four steals and two blocks. Michael Thompson added 13 points. Jimmy Mckinney chipped in with 11 points, four rebounds and four assists. The LTi Giessen 46ers were led by Elvir Ovcina with 20 points and 13 boards. After a disastrous shooting performance against the Artland Dragons 72 hours earlier, The Fraport Skyliners found the soft Osthalle rims to their liking as they shot 49% from the field and 50% from outside. Frankfurt lost the rebounding battle, but the key to their momentary success continues to be their defense. Since the blowout loss in Bamberg November 5th, the team has given up an average of only 63 points per game in the last nine games. Their defense is so good. We took too long trying to find the mismatches and when we did the shot clock was already near the end, stressed Achmadschah Zazai. The Frankfurt defense changes so much. They play man well and switch so well and Herber brings so much energy to their defense, added Wayne Bernard. I think it helps our defense that we are smaller. Opponents cant find many mismatches against us, warned Jacob Burtschi. Jimmy Mckinney who is a pure scorer scores at ease and isnt worrying about their offense yet. I think that we will be ok if we get Davidson the ball, I make my shots and everybody else chips in. Defense wins championships, warned Jimmy Mckinney. The Fraport Skyliners host EnBW Ludwigsburg January 8th at 17:00.


Saar-Pfalz Braves signed Nick Okorie and P.J. Alawoya - by Eurobasket Center
Saar-Pfalz Braves (ProA) added to their roster two new players: Nick Okorie (185-G-88, college: Texas Tech) and P.J. Alawoya (200-F-88, college: McNeese St.) .

Okorie, 24-year old Nigerian guard, played most recently at Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland). While playing 26 games for Salon Vilpas last season he averaged 15.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.2apg and 1.4spg. Okorie graduated from Texas Tech University in 2010 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

Alawoya is 23-year old forward from Houston, TX. Last season he graduated from McNeese State (NCAA). As a senior he averaged 10.2ppg and 10.3rpg playing 32 games. He helped his team to reach Southland Conf. Tournament Final. P.J. was selected to the All-Louisiana 1st Team and All-Southland Conf. 3rd Team. During the summer he attended Eurobasket Summer League in Houston. While playing 3 games for Team Rio de Janeiro his stats were 6.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg.

Goran Jeretin has left the Artland Dragons - by Moritz Korff
BBL side Artland Dragons has not extended the short term contract of Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket), the club tells in a press release today. The Montenegrien guard joined the Quakenbrueck team in November as a temporary replacement for Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, college: Bucknell), who had suffered a thumb injury and was sidelined for almost three months. Bailey returned to action on December 27th, while Jeretin left Quakenbrueck today to return to his native Montenegro. He played a total of six BBL games for the Dragons, averaging 2.7 points per contest.

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


Greeks of Diaspora - by Chris Mammides
Eurobasket is presenting the interview which was given by the talented Greek American point guard Dean Danos (183-G-95) to the American site www.nwitimes.com

Bishop Noll gets version of 'Pistol Pete' with arrival of Danos from Illinois

Dean Danos was doing some magical, circus-like stuff at an AAU tournament when he was in sixth grade. A coach walked up after the final whistle and made one comment: 'You remind me of Pistol Pete,' he said, referencing former LSU and NBA star Pete Maravich, who played a lifetime ago.
There was no look of confusion on Danos' face regarding Maravich, who averaged 44.2 points a game in three seasons at LSU from 1966 through 1970.
Danos knew who 'The Pistol' was already.'I had already seen some tape of him,' Danos said. 'He was great.'
So when Danos arrived at Bishop Noll after transferring from Aurora Christian in Illinois, the first question he asked boys basketball coach Drew Trost was this: 'Do you have number 44?' Maravich's number. Trost laughed. 'If we had a 44, which we don't, it would be about three sizes too big,' Trost said.
So the 5-foot-11 guard was ready to go to another legendary hoopster. 'Do you have number 12?' Danos asked, those digits alluding to his second-favorite player, former Utah Jazz point guard John Stockton. This is Danos, who is both a Maravich and a Stockton. He can shoot and score bucketfuls, but with a talented and experienced Warriors squad returning from last year's Class 2A state runner-up team, Danos is more about setting up teammates.
After missing Noll's first two games with a knee injury, Danos is averaging a little less than 20 points a game for the second-ranked team in the state.
Noll will play 2A No. 6 North Judson in a battle of unbeatens in The Times Region Round ball Rumble at the Hammond Civic Center.
'The intensity of Indiana basketball is a lot higher than in Illinois,' Danos said. 'Every game is a fight, is a battle. The crowds are great. The fans are great. I love Indiana high school basketball. 'And I can't wait to play in the Rumble.'
This is the second year in a row in which Noll's program was infused with a point guard from the Land of Lincoln. Last year it was Adonis Filer who crossed the state line to help lead the Warriors to Indianapolis.
Last year at Aurora Christian, Danos averaged 21 points and seven rebounds for a team that got to the semi state level in its tournament. His older brother, Peter Danos, won an Illinois state title at Richards in 2008. 'I want to follow in his footsteps,' said Danos, who lives in Oak Lawn. 'Now I want to do the same thing in Indiana.'
Filer's game was ultra-athletic. He could take it to the basket against anyone, which is why he will play at Clemson next year. But teams were able to pack the paint against Noll last year because of the lack of an outside threat.
Do so at your own peril with Danos on the perimeter. And the outside touches of John Dodson and the injury-recovering Jonathon Bock make it difficult for opponents to concentrate on only one shooter. 'Dean told me at one of our first practices that our team was like an AAU team,' Trost said. 'He said he'd never played on a team this good before. So we're not asking him to score as much as he did last year. He's just as good dribbling and moving the ball.
'I don't think people will be able to pack it inside against us like last year. Not with Dean out there to stretch the floor.'

The interview was given to the American site www.nwitimes.com


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


KR add Serbian player on roster - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
KR has added Dejan Sencanski (198-F-84, agency: JEMsports, college: Abil.Christian) on their roster. Sencanski is 6'6' forward that graduated from Abil Christian College NCAA D-2 in 2009where he average 17,6 points and 6,1 rebounds his senior year. Last season he played for Saint-Quentin Basket in NM 1 France. Avera 13,4 points, 3,4 rebounds.
Thor Thorl has released Marko Latinovic (202-F-87, college: Illinois Wesleyan) and sign instead Blagoj Janev (203-F-84, college: New Hampshire) 6'8' FYR Macedoniqan/Australian. Janev played College ball at New Hampshire and after College has played for Singapore Slingers and Sidney Kings in Australia top league and also in New Zealand, Macedonia and Tallin.
Rumour is that Thor has also sign Junior Hairston (203-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Towson) 6'8' that graduated from Towson and started season in Salon Vilpas in Finland

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


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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Luke ENOS
  Moycullen
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 24.5
 1. Enos, Moycullen24.5 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.23.6 
 3. Atupem, UCC Demons23.5 
 4. Turner, 11890 K.20.9 
 5. Stith, UCD Marian19.8 
 6. Jefferson, UL Ea.17.4 
 7. Cummins, Belfast16.4 
 8. Noonan, B.Gais N.15.6 
 9. Glover, DCU Saints15.3 
 10. Provizors, DCU S.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Turner, 11890 K.19.1 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.13.9 
 3. Provizors, DCU S.12.6 
 4. Killeen, UL Eagles11.9 
 5. Enos, Moycullen11.6 
 6. Atupem, UCC Demons10.1 
 7. Stith, UCD Marian9.9 
 8. Tummon, Moycullen8.7 
 9. Glover, DCU Saints8.2 
 10. O''Reilly, UCC D.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Gerard NOONAN
  B.Gais N.
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Noonan, B.Gais N.4.8 
 2. Kinevane, UL Eagl.4.5 
 3. Clarke, 11890 K.4.4 
 4. Turner, 11890 K.4.2 
 5. Madsen, 11890 K.4.2 
 6. Donnelly, DCU S.4.1 
 7. Coughlan, UCC D.4.1 
 8. Dowd, Moycullen4.0 
 9. Cunningham, Moycul.3.8 
 10. Thompson, B.Gais3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Turner, 11890 K.3.8 
 2. Thompson, B.Gais N.3.4 
 3. McGinn, B.Gais N.2.5 
 4. Noonan, B.Gais N.2.4 
 5. Stith, UCD Marian2.3 
 6. Donnelly, DCU S.2.3 
 7. Anderson, DCU S.2.2 
 8. Madsen, 11890 K.2.2 
 9. Jefferson, UL Ea.2.1 
 10. Taylor, B.Gais N.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Turner, 11890 K.3.6 
 2. Killeen, UL Eagles2.5 
 3. Thompson, B.Gais N.2.1 
 4. Stith, UCD Marian1.9 
 5. Trimmer, DCU S.1.5 
 6. Casey, 11890 K.1.3 
 7. O''Brien, 11890 K.1.3 
 8. Enos, Moycullen1.1 
 9. Quigley, UL Eagles0.8 
 10. Provizors, DCU S.0.8 


SuperLeague Round 13: DCU Saints beat 11890 Killester by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 13 in the SuperLeague took place in Dublin. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of their biggest opponent 11890 Killester (9-4) to first ranked DCU Saints (12-2) 86-84 in the game for the first place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of 11890 Killester. DCU Saints made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They outrebounded 11890 Killester 60-34 including a 28-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. 26 personal fouls committed by 11890 Killester helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Michael Trimmer (204-C-67, college: Wooster) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Emmett Donnelly (186-78) contributed with 15 points and 4 assists for the winners. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds for 11890 Killester. 11890 Killester's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. DCU Saints have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-2 record. Defending champion 11890 Killester keeps the second position with four games lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin in the next round, which may be the game of the day. 11890 Killester will play at home against Belfast Star and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Cork: UCC Demons (#1) and B.Gais Neptune (#2). B.Gais Neptune was crushed at home by 35 points 64-99 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It was a key game for the top position in the league. American forward Shawn Atupem (200-89, college: Mt.St.Mary's) stepped up and scored 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners and Niall Murphy chipped in 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. At the losing side American power forward Ronald Thompson (208-81, college: Morehouse) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. UCC Demons maintains first place with 8-4 record. B.Gais Neptune at the other side keeps the second position with five games lost. UCC Demons will play against league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. B.Gais Neptune will have a break next round.
An interesting game for B.Gais Neptune (8-5) which played road game in Limerick against 3rd placed UL Eagles (6-8). Second ranked B.Gais Neptune managed to get a 7-point victory 74-67. Ronald Thompson nailed a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Robert Taylor came up with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals for UL Eagles in the defeat. B.Gais Neptune maintains second place with 8-5 record having five points less than leader UCC Demons. Loser UL Eagles keep the third position with eight games lost. B.Gais Neptune will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. UL Eagles will play against Moycullen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for UCC Demons (8-4) which hosted in Cork 4th placed Moycullen (3-11). First ranked UCC Demons had an easy win 88-65. UCC Demons maintains first place with 8-4 record. Moycullen lost their third game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 11 games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play at home against UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


UL Eagles - B.Gais Neptune 67-74

An interesting game for B.Gais Neptune (8-5) which played road game in Limerick against 3rd placed UL Eagles (6-8). Second ranked B.Gais Neptune managed to get a 7-point victory 74-67. B.Gais Neptune looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. American power forward Ronald Thompson (208-81, college: Morehouse) nailed a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side and guard Gerard Noonan (180-82) accounted for 14 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Four B.Gais Neptune players scored in double figures. American guard Robert Taylor (188-83, college: Rider) came up with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals and the former international forward Robert Lynch (193-78) added 14 points and 11 rebounds respectively for UL Eagles in the defeat. B.Gais Neptune maintains second place with 8-5 record having five points less than leader UCC Demons. Loser UL Eagles keep the third position with eight games lost. B.Gais Neptune will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. UL Eagles will play against Moycullen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
B.Gais Neptune: R.Thompson 22+12reb+3ast, R.Downey 14+4reb+2ast, G.Noonan 14+11reb+10ast, M.McGinn 11+3reb+2ast, I.McLoughlin 7+1reb+1ast, P.Taylor 6+7reb+1ast
UL Eagles: R.Taylor 17+6reb+6ast, M.Hall 16+1reb+1ast, R.Lynch 14+11reb+2ast, N.Campbell 8+2reb+2ast, J.Killeen 6+10reb, E.Quigley 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 145159


UCC Demons - Moycullen 88-65

An interesting game for UCC Demons (8-4) which hosted in Cork 4th placed Moycullen (3-11). First ranked UCC Demons had an easy win 88-65. UCC Demons maintains first place with 8-4 record. Moycullen lost their third game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 11 games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play at home against UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 145160


11890 Killester - DCU Saints 84-86

The most exciting game of round 13 in the SuperLeague took place in Dublin. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of their biggest opponent 11890 Killester (9-4) to first ranked DCU Saints (12-2) 86-84 in the game for the first place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of 11890 Killester. DCU Saints made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They outrebounded 11890 Killester 60-34 including a 28-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. 26 personal fouls committed by 11890 Killester helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Michael Trimmer (204-67, college: Wooster) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Emmett Donnelly (186-78) contributed with 15 points and 4 assists for the winners. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds and the former international guard Peder Madsen (186-78, college: Post) added 15 points in the effort for 11890 Killester. Four 11890 Killester players scored in double figures. 11890 Killester's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. DCU Saints have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-2 record. Defending champion 11890 Killester keeps the second position with four games lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin in the next round, which may be the game of the day. 11890 Killester will play at home against Belfast Star and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
DCU Saints: M.Trimmer 17+12reb+1ast, E.Donnelly 15+3reb+4ast, P.Glover 10+7reb+1ast, K.Anderson 9+3reb+4ast, M.Provizors 7+14reb, K.Lacey 6+8reb+3ast
11890 Killester: J.Turner 21+14reb+3ast, P.Madsen 15+1reb+2ast, M.Westbrooks 11+3reb+1ast, K.O'Brien 10+5reb+1ast, R.Clarke 8+3reb+6ast, M.Gomes 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 145161


B.Gais Neptune - UCC Demons 64-99

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Cork: UCC Demons (#1) and B.Gais Neptune (#2). B.Gais Neptune was crushed at home by 35 points 64-99 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It was a key game for the top position in the league. UCC Demons dominated down low during the game scoring 80 of its points in the paint compared to B.Gais Neptune's 52. UCC Demons forced 22 B.Gais Neptune turnovers. American forward Shawn Atupem (200-89, college: Mt.St.Mary's) stepped up and scored 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Niall Murphy (180-86) chipped in 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Five UCC Demons players scored in double figures. At the losing side American power forward Ronald Thompson (208-81, college: Morehouse) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds and guard Gerard Noonan (180-82) scored 12 points and 9 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. UCC Demons maintains first place with 8-4 record. B.Gais Neptune at the other side keeps the second position with five games lost. UCC Demons will play against league's second-placed 11890 Killester in Dublin in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. B.Gais Neptune will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
UCC Demons: S.Atupem 22+6reb+1ast, S.Duggan 19+1ast, C.O'Sullivan 15+4reb+2ast, N.Murphy 13+6reb+5ast, C.Cuffe 13+5reb+1ast, S.Coughlan 6+6reb+5ast
B.Gais Neptune: R.Thompson 25+11reb+2ast, G.Noonan 12+9reb+3ast, R.Downey 6+2reb+1ast, M.McGinn 5+3reb+2ast, G.Walsh 4+2ast, I.McLoughlin 4+1ast
gschID: 145162




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


Standings - National League
National League Standings
 1. Macc.B.Yaakov 11-2 
 2. Hapoel T-A 10-3 
 3. Elitzur Yavne 9-4 
 4. Hapoel Afula 8-5 
 5. Kiryat Tivon 8-5 
 6. Hod Hasharon 7-6 
 7. Ironi Nahariya 6-6 
 8. Ironi K-A 6-7 
 9. Ironi Nes-Ziona 5-7 
 10. Elitzur Ramla 5-8 
 11. Lev Hasharon 5-8 
 12. Ironi Ramat Gan 4-9 
 13. Hapoel K/S 3-10 
 14. Hapoel Y/M 3-10 


Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Errick MCCOLLUM
  Hapoel K.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 28.8
 1. McCollum, Hapoel K.28.8 
 2. Hall, Macc.B.Y.23.2 
 3. Sanders, Hapoel Y.23.2 
 4. Ginyard, Ironi N.23.1 
 5. Moragne, Elitzur22.4 
 6. Clemente, Kiryat T.21.5 
 7. Miller, Macc.B.Y.21.5 
 8. Clinch, Lev H.21.2 
 9. Thondique, Hapoel21.1 
 10. Bet-Yosef, Macc..20.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ramon CLEMENTE
  Kiryat T.
  (200-PF-85)
  Avg: 14.8
 1. Clemente, Kiryat T.14.8 
 2. Thondique, Hapoel13.8 
 3. Rosefelt, Lev H.11.4 
 4. Moses, Hapoel K/S10.9 
 5. Daniel, Ironi K-A10.3 
 6. Blair, Ironi N.9.6 
 7. Webb, Ironi R.9.3 
 8. Bacon, Elitzur Ram.9.3 
 9. McCollum, Hapoel K.9.2 
 10. Traimel, Ironi N.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Lior SEGEV
  Kiryat Tivon
  (190-PG-83)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Segev, Kiryat Tivon7.8 
 2. Nanikashvili, Iron.7.8 
 3. Eliyahu, Ironi N.7.7 
 4. Rub, Lev Hasharon7.3 
 5. Sukar, Hod Hashar.6.4 
 6. Berkowitz, Elitzu.6.3 
 7. Bannister, Ironi R.5.6 
 8. Assaf, Ironi N.4.7 
 9. McCollum, Hapoel K.4.2 
 10. Bet-Yosef, Macc..3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Lior SEGEV
  Kiryat Tivon
  (190-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Segev, Kiryat Tivon3.7 
 2. Bet-Yosef, Macc.B.3.3 
 3. Hofman, Elitzur2.9 
 4. Miller, Macc.B.Y.2.8 
 5. Tolbert, Hapoel K/S2.8 
 6. Eliyahu, Ironi N.2.5 
 7. Davidi, Ironi R.2.5 
 8. Gonzalez, Hod H.2.4 
 9. Housman, Macc.B.Y.2.3 
 10. Zigdon, Ironi R.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Lenny DANIEL
  Ironi K-A
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Daniel, Ironi K-A3.0 
 2. Kelly, Hapoel T-A2.0 
 3. Blair, Ironi N.2.0 
 4. Clemente, Kiryat T.1.8 
 5. Jackson, Hapoel Y.1.8 
 6. Webb, Ironi R.1.8 
 7. Thondique, Hapoel1.7 
 8. Johnson, Hod H.1.7 
 9. Younger, Ironi K-A1.2 
 10. Tzubrevitch, Iron.1.2 


Best players of Israeli Premier League round 12 - by Eurobasket News
American Derwin Kitchen (193-G-86, agency: VVG Sports) had an amazing evening in the last round for Maccabi Rishon and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 25-year old guard had the game-high 35 points adding nine rebounds and five assists for Maccabi Rishon in his team's victory, helping them to beat Hapoel Holon (6-5) 88-77. Maccabi Rishon is placed at 4th position in Israeli Premier League. Maccabi Rishon is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-5 record. In the team's last game Kitchen had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Maccabi Rishon's top player in his first season with the team. Florida State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Kitchen is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 7.6rpg) and averages solid 58.8% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American power forward Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86) of league's best team Maccabi T-A. Hendrix impressed basketball fans with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course he lead Maccabi T-A to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked Galil Gilboa (#2, 7-4) 102-61. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Maccabi T-A consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. His team belongs to top of the standings with 10-1 record and is considered one of the main candidates for the league title. Hendrix is well-known by Maccabi T-A fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Dwayne Mitchell (196-G/F-82, agency: Interperformances) of Ironi Ashkelon (#7). Mitchell showcased his all-around game by recording 25 points, five rebounds and six assists in the last round. He was a key player of Ironi Ashkelon, leading his team to a 87-85 win against the lower-ranked Maccabi Ashdod (#10, 3-8). Ironi Ashkelon needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 6 victories and 5 lost games. Mitchell has a great season in Israel. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.2apg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. D.J. Strawberry (196-G-85) of Hapoel J-M - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists
5. Tyler Wilkerson (202-F-88) of Maccabi Haifa - 19 points and 14 rebounds
6. Brian Randle (203-F-85) of Hapoel J-M - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Alex Tyus (203-F-88) of Maccabi Ashdod - 23 points and 8 rebounds
8. Elishay Kadir (202-F-87) of Hapoel J-M - 18 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Shawn James (208-C-83) of Maccabi T-A - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Tasmin Mitchell (201-F-86) of Hapoel Holon - 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)

Mark Dawson joins Kiryat Ata - by Eurobasket News
Mark Dawson (206-F/C-83, college: Long Beach St.) has moved to Israel. The centre has signed a deal with Kiryat Ata. Last season Mark Dawson spent in Lebanon. He played for Anibal Zahle in Division A. His stats read 20.1 points, 12.5 boards, 1.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game. He earned All-Lebanese League Honourable Mention. Previously Mark Dawson had stints in Greece, China, WBA, WCBL, Germany, ABA. The centre was named All-WCBL Playoff MVP in 2009. Asia-Basket.com named Mark Dawson into All-Chinese NBL 2nd Team in 2010. The centre has already debuted for Kiryat Ata. Mark Dawson posted 17 points, 10 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block in an 80:104 loss against Hod Hasharon.


National League Round 13: Beer Yaakov defeats Lev Hasharon in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
National League is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 13 rounds left.

Tenth-ranked Lev Hasharon (5-8) gave a tough game to first ranked Beer Yaakov (11-2) on Tuesday. The visitors from Beer Yaakov managed to secure only three-point victory 95-92. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 46-42 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Beer Yaakov forced 26 Lev Hasharon turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 27 personal fouls committed by Lev Hasharon helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Jermaine Hall (196-80, college: Wagner) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 10 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) chipped in 21 points and 6 assists. At the losing side American guard Lewis Clinch (191-87, college: Georgia Tech) responded with 36 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. Beer Yaakov maintains first place with 11-2 record. Lev Hasharon at the other side keeps the tenth position with eight games lost. They share it with Elitzur Ramla. Beer Yaakov are looking forward to face Ironi Ramat Gan (#12) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lev Hasharon will play against Hapoel Afula and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Yavne. Third ranked host Elitzur Yavne (9-4) defeated their biggest opponent Hapoel Tel-Aviv (10-3) 83-75. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Hapoel Tel-Aviv. American forward Kyle Wilson (206-83, college: Wichita St.) nailed 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side and Elad Hofman accounted for 20 points. American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-89, college: Clemson) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for Hapoel Tel-Aviv in the defeat. Elitzur Yavne have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 9-4 record having just two points less than leader Macc.B.Yaakov. Hapoel Tel-Aviv at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. Elitzur Yavne will play against Hapoel Kfar Saba (#13) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will play against Hod Hasharon (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Tuesday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido 87-72. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 15-point difference suggests that Hapoel Kfar Saba is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. Americans were the main players on the court. Errick McCollum fired 29 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Thomas Sanders produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 11 rebounds for lost side. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel Kfar Saba (3-10) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Hapoel Y/M. Hapoel Kfar Saba will meet higher ranked Elitzur Yavne (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido will play against Kiryat Tivon (#5) in Kiryat Tivon and hope to secure a win.
Seventh ranked Hod Hasharon (7-6) crushed at home 8th ranked Ironi Kiryat Ata (6-7) by 24 points 104-80, which is the biggest margin this round. Worth to mention a great performance of Charles Dewhurst who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Hod Hasharon's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Hod Hasharon moved-up to sixth place. Ironi Kiryat Ata lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the eighth position with seven games lost. Hod Hasharon's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Hapoel Tel-Aviv at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Kiryat Ata will play against Elitzur Ramla (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 13: Ironi Nes-Ziona won against Elitzur Ramla on the opponent's court 100-87. Ironi Ramat Gan unfortunately lost to Kiryat Tivon in a home game 77-93. Ironi Nahariya recorded a loss to Hapoel Afula on the road 84-96.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 37 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds by Marcus Ginyard of Ironi Nahariya.


Elitzur Ramla - Ironi Nes-Ziona 87-100

There was a minor upset when 9th ranked Elitzur Ramla (5-8) was defeated at home by eleventh ranked Ironi Nes-Ziona (5-7) 100-87. The guests were ahead by 2 points but lost the second period ending it with a 3-point deficit before their 36-20 run, which allowed them to win the game. Ironi Nes-Ziona dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Elitzur Ramla's 42. Ironi Nes-Ziona forced 21 Elitzur Ramla turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Welsh forward Tal Michael Dunne (197-87) who helped to win the game recording 27 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. American forward Gabe Blair (203-87, college: Wichita St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. American forward Stacey Moragne (195-83, college: Mass.-Lowell) answered with 23 points and 8 rebounds and forward Michael Badalov (201-87) added 16 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Elitzur Ramla. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Ironi Nes-Ziona moved-up to ninth place. Elitzur Ramla lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with eight games lost. Ironi Nes-Ziona's next round opponent will be higher ranked Ironi Nahariya (#7) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Elitzur Ramla will play against Ironi Kiryat Ata and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ironi Nes-Ziona: T.Michael Dunne 27+7reb+5ast, G.Blair 22+10reb+2ast, D.Assaf 15+2reb+7ast, B.Benn 12+5reb+1ast, D.Bank 9+4reb+3ast, T.Karpeles 7+1reb+3ast
Elitzur Ramla: S.Moragne 23+8reb+3ast, M.Badalov 16+5reb+1ast, I.Berkowitz 14+5reb+3ast, R.Bacon 11+8reb, I.Rejwan 7+1reb, R.Barzilai 6+2ast
gschID: 145278


Ironi Ramat Gan - Kiryat Tivon 77-93

Very predictable result when fifth ranked Kiryat Tivon (8-5) defeated on the road 12th ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (4-9) 93-77. The game without a history. Kiryat Tivon led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great shooting night for Kiryat Tivon especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Ironi Ramat Gan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Puerto Rican Ramon Clemente (200-85, college: Wichita St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds. American-Cape Verdean guard Joshua Gomes (190-83, college: E.Illinois) contributed with 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Dror Davidi (190-84) answered with 21 points, 5 assists and 7 steals and American guard T.J Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty, agency: KMG Sports Management) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists in the effort for Ironi Ramat Gan. Five Kiryat Tivon and four Ironi Ramat Gan players scored in double figures. Ironi Ramat Gan's coach Amir Uzi tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Kiryat Tivon moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Hapoel Afula. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the twelfth position with nine games lost. Kiryat Tivon's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (#14) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Ironi Ramat Gan will play against the league's leader Beer Yaakov and be promoted back to the Premier League just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Kiryat Tivon: J.Gomes 22+5reb, R.Clemente 20+12reb+2ast, N.Yanay 13+2reb+5ast, B.Hagbi 13+3reb+5ast, K.Izik 11+5reb+6ast, Z.Silverman 5+4reb+2ast
Ironi Ramat Gan: D.Davidi 21+3reb+5ast, R.Webb 14+8reb+1ast, T.Bannister 11+5reb+10ast, R.Pitshon 11+6reb, I.Mayor 7+3ast, L.Rubinstein 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 145274


Hapoel Y/M - Hapoel K/S 72-87

Bottom-ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Tuesday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido 87-72. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 15-point difference suggests that Hapoel Kfar Saba is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Kfar Saba. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido managed to win second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Kfar Saba made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Errick McCollum (185-88, college: Goshen, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) fired 29 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Forward Marshall Moses (198-89, college: Oklahoma St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws). Guard Thomas Sanders (194-85, college: Gardner-Webb, agency: Duran International) produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 11 rebounds and power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) added 11 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists respectively for lost side. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel Kfar Saba (3-10) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Hapoel Y/M. Hapoel Kfar Saba will meet higher ranked Elitzur Yavne (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido will play against Kiryat Tivon (#5) in Kiryat Tivon and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Hapoel K/S: E.McCollum 29+9reb+5ast, M.Moses 26+13reb+2ast, O.Ron 12+6reb+6ast, B.Reuven 5, S.Kleimintz 5+1ast, E.Rotemberg 4+1reb
Hapoel Y/M: T.Sanders 28+11reb+2ast, R.Turner 11+9reb+7ast, J.Sztarkman 10+3reb+2ast, T.Ber-Aven 9+2reb+2ast, H.Barbi 8+3reb+1ast, Z.Ben-Zvi 6
gschID: 145275


Elitzur Yavne - Hapoel T-A 83-75

The game between Top Four teams took place in Yavne. Third ranked host Elitzur Yavne (9-4) defeated their biggest opponent Hapoel Tel-Aviv (10-3) 83-75. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Hapoel Tel-Aviv. The hosts were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 21-17 Hapoel Tel-Aviv's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 83-75 at the end of the game. Elitzur Yavne forced 20 Hapoel Tel-Aviv turnovers. American forward Kyle Wilson (206-83, college: Wichita St.) nailed 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side and swingman Elad Hofman (192-85) accounted for 20 points. American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-89, college: Clemson) came up with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international Matan Naor (195-80) added 13 points and 9 rebounds respectively for Hapoel Tel-Aviv in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Elitzur Yavne have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 9-4 record having just two points less than leader Macc.B.Yaakov. Hapoel Tel-Aviv at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. Elitzur Yavne will play against Hapoel Kfar Saba (#13) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will play against Hod Hasharon (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Yavne: E.Hofman 20+2reb+1ast, K.Wilson 16+8reb, N.Golan 14+4reb+4ast, B.Laing 13+7reb, T.Dray 10+2reb+3ast, E.Engel 8+5reb
Hapoel T-A: C.Carr 13+1reb+3ast, M.Naor 13+9reb+1ast, G.Eytan 12+3reb+2ast, D.Stitt 12+8reb+4ast, J.Skjoldebrand 11+1reb+1ast, C.Kelly 10+9reb
gschID: 145276


Hod Hasharon - Ironi K-A 104-80

Seventh ranked Hod Hasharon (7-6) crushed at home 8th ranked Ironi Kiryat Ata (6-7) by 24 points 104-80, which is the biggest margin this round. The game was mostly controlled by Hod Hasharon. Ironi Kiryat Ata was better in fourth quarter 29-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hod Hasharon made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game. Hod Hasharon outrebounded Ironi Kiryat Ata 42-29 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 15 passes made by Ironi Kiryat Ata's players. 28 personal fouls committed by Ironi Kiryat Ata helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized American guard Charles Dewhurst (195-87, college: Charlotte) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). The former international guard Avi Sukar (187-76) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 11 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Hod Hasharon's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Mark Dawson (206-83, college: Long Beach St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import forward Damon Peterson (201-68, college: Oklahoma, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 14 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Ironi Kiryat Ata. Four Hod Hasharon and five Ironi Kiryat Ata players scored in double figures. Hod Hasharon moved-up to sixth place. Ironi Kiryat Ata lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the eighth position with seven games lost. Hod Hasharon's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Hapoel Tel-Aviv at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Kiryat Ata will play against Elitzur Ramla (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hod Hasharon: C.Dewhurst 20+11reb+2ast, H.Ratner 18+2reb+2ast, A.Sukar 16+4reb+11ast, A.Skverer 13+2reb+3ast, A.Johnson 13+7reb+2ast, G.Gandel 7+7reb+7ast
Ironi K-A: M.Dawson 17+10reb, D.Peterson 14+7reb+1ast, R.Elbaz 13+2reb, R.Menashe 11+1reb, G.Halamish 10+2reb+3ast, A.Nanikashvili 10+1reb+4ast
gschID: 145277


Hapoel Afula - Ironi Nahariya 96-84

Not a big story in a game when 6th ranked Ironi Nahariya (6-6) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Hapoel Afula (8-5) 96-84. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Afula. Ironi Nahariya was better in fourth quarter 28-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Afula made 17-of-20 charity shots (85.0 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Hapoel Afula especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. It was a very good performance for American forward Gregg Thondique (201-87, college: Virginia Union) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 9 rebounds. Swingman Elad Eliyah (193-85) contributed with 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Hapoel Afula players scored in double figures. American swingman Marcus Ginyard (196-87, college: N.Carolina) answered with 37 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!) and guard Oren Ben Hemo (190-79) added 14 points and 6 assists in the effort for Ironi Nahariya. Hapoel Afula have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 8-5 record, which they share with Kiryat Tivon. Ironi Nahariya at the other side dropped to the seventh position with six games lost. Hapoel Afula's next round opponent will be Lev Hasharon (#11) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Ironi Nahariya will play against Ironi Nes-Ziona (#9) in Nes Ziyona and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hapoel Afula: E.Eliyah 19+6reb+3ast, R.LeMelle 18+4reb+5ast, G.Thondique 18+9reb+1ast, O.Blayzer 12+5reb+2ast, G.Cohen 11+3ast, Y.Deri 8+2reb+11ast
Ironi Nahariya: M.Ginyard 37+8reb+3ast, J.Roberts 14+2reb+1ast, O.Ben Hemo 14+2reb+6ast, E.Traimel 9+8reb+1ast, A.Eliyahu 5+5ast, M.Snir 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 145272


Lev Hasharon - Macc.B.Yaakov 92-95

Tenth-ranked Lev Hasharon (5-8) gave a tough game to first ranked Beer Yaakov (11-2) on Tuesday. The visitors from Beer Yaakov managed to secure only three-point victory 95-92. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 46-42 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Beer Yaakov forced 26 Lev Hasharon turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 27 personal fouls committed by Lev Hasharon helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Jermaine Hall (196-80, college: Wagner) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 10 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) chipped in 21 points and 6 assists. Four Beer Yaakov players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Lewis Clinch (191-87, college: Georgia Tech) responded with 36 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and guard Omer Rub (173-90) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 assists. Beer Yaakov maintains first place with 11-2 record. Lev Hasharon at the other side keeps the tenth position with eight games lost. They share it with Elitzur Ramla. Beer Yaakov are looking forward to face Ironi Ramat Gan (#12) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lev Hasharon will play against Hapoel Afula and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Macc.B.Yaakov: J.Hall 31+10reb+1ast, Y.Bet-Yosef 21+3reb+6ast, N.Miller 14+7reb+7ast, N.Dvash 10+5reb+4ast, C.Watson 6+3reb, I.Simin 5+3reb+3ast
Lev Hasharon: L.Clinch 36+6reb+3ast, O.Rub 19+4reb+10ast, O.Shmidt 15+5reb+2ast, V.Yeremishin 8+6reb, U.Gur 7+2reb, B.Sharoni 3+2reb+2ast
gschID: 145273




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  ITALY   


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


Stats Leaders - SerieA
Points Per Game
 Mustafa SHAKUR
  Novipiu CM
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Shakur, Novipiu CM20.3 
 2. Wafer, Vanoli CR20.1 
 3. Coleman, Angelico.17.8 
 4. Smith, Pepsi C.17.1 
 5. Dean, Sidigas AV16.8 
 6. Diener, Banco d.16.8 
 7. Pullen, Angelico BI16.4 
 8. Datome, Acea Roma16.1 
 9. Tucker, Acea Roma15.9 
 10. Diawara, Cimberio.15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.10.2 
 2. Homan, CS Bologna10.0 
 3. Johnson, Sidigas9.6 
 4. Adrien, Benetton9.0 
 5. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.6 
 6. Brunner, Fabi Shoes8.2 
 7. Chiotti, Novip.7.8 
 8. Smith, Pepsi C.7.5 
 9. Dragicevic, Angeli.7.0 
 10. Jones, Scavolini7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Green, Sidigas AV6.6 
 2. Collins, Pepsi C.5.7 
 3. Cook, Armani MI5.2 
 4. Diener, Banco d.4.8 
 5. Stipcevic, Cimberi.4.2 
 6. Poeta, CS Bologna4.1 
 7. McIntyre, CS Bo.3.9 
 8. Pullen, Angelico BI3.8 
 9. Shakur, Novipiu CM3.7 
 10. Zoroski, Fabi Sho.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Coleman, Angelico.3.6 
 2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes2.9 
 3. Hosley, Banco d.2.7 
 4. Hackett, Scavolin.2.5 
 5. Green, Sidigas AV2.3 
 6. Pullen, Angelico BI2.3 
 7. Poeta, CS Bologna2.2 
 8. Stonerook, Montep.2.0 
 9. Bowers, Umana V.2.0 
 10. Dean, Sidigas AV1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Marco CUSIN
  Scavolini PS
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.4 
 2. Shermadini, Bennet1.1 
 3. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.1 
 4. Johnson, Sidigas0.9 
 5. Crosariol, Acea R.0.9 
 6. Sanikidze, CS Bo.0.8 
 7. Lavrinovic, Montep.0.8 
 8. Bourousis, Armani0.8 
 9. Adrien, Benetton0.8 
 10. Hunter, Banco d.0.8 


Teramo inks Anthony Goods - by Giovanni Bargna
Banca Tercas Teramo announced Anthony Goods (191-G-87, college: Stanford), the US guard was playing with the Dakota Wizards where he was averaging 17.1 points per game in eight games played.
Out of Stanford college Goods joined the Bakersfield Jam (D-League) in 2009-2010 before flying to Venezuela early in 2011 selected by Trotamundos de Carabobo.
Few weeks ago he took part to the NBA training camp with the Oklahoma City Thunderbirds.
Here's what his new coach Ramagli said : 'We add a flexible player to our roster who can easily feel comfortable with european basketball scoring points but helping in other situations of the game too'.

SerieA Round 14: Armani Milano is a new leader - by Eurobasket News
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Armani Milano as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Armani Milano defeated 12th ranked Lottomatica Roma at home 83-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lottomatica Roma. Lottomatica Roma trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 17-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 75-83 at the end of the game. The best player for the winners was American-Montenegrin point guard Omar-Sharif Cook (186-82, college: St.John's, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 18 points and 5 assists. Swingman Alessandro Gentile (197-92) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Clay Tucker (196-80, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: Pro One Sports) produced 20 points for the guests. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Montepaschi. Lottomatica Roma at the other side keeps the twelfth place with eight games lost. Lottomatica Roma will play next round against Novipiu CM trying to get back on the winning streak. Armani Milano will try to continue on its current victory against seventeenth ranked Banca Tercas in Teramo.
Top ranked Montepaschi Siena (10-3) recorded its third loss at the home court. Hosts were edged by ninth ranked Scavolini Pesaro (7-6) 78-75. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Montepaschi Siena. American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory by scoring 21 points and 6 rebounds. Jumaine Jones contributed with 16 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Australian center David Andersen (212-80) replied with 16 points and 5 rebounds for Montepaschi Siena. Montepaschi Siena's coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Scavolini Pesaro moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Defending champion Montepaschi Siena still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Armani MI. Scavolini Pesaro will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Montepaschi Siena will play at home against CS Bologna and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Banca Tercas managed to get a third victory, breaking the three-game losing streak on Tuesday night. This time they won against fifteenth-ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro 73-65. Milos Borisov scored 22 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Ivan Zoroski responded with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Banca Tercas maintains seventeenth position with 3-10 record. Loser Fabi Shoes Montegranaro dropped to the fourteenth place with nine games lost. They share the position with Novipiu CM. Banca Tercas will meet at home league's leader Armani Milano in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will play against Pepsi Caserta (#11) and hope to secure a win.
Sixteenth-ranked Vanoli-Braga (4-10) made lots of trouble for sixth ranked Air Avellino (8-6). Air Avellino managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Taquan Dean notched a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort. Air Avellino moved-up to fifth place. Vanoli-Braga at the other side keeps the sixteenth position with ten games lost. Air Avellino will have a break next round. Vanoli-Braga will play at home against Cimberio Varese (#8).
The game with biggest result difference took place in Varese. Local Cimberio Varese (7-6) beat 13th ranked Benetton Treviso (5-8) 96-80 on Tuesday night. The best player for the winners was Yakhouba Diawara who scored 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Cimberio Varese moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Benetton Treviso lost third consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth position with eight games lost. Cimberio Varese will face Vanoli-Braga (#16) in Cremona in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Benetton Treviso will play at home against Umana Venezia.

Rest of the games of round 14 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Banco di Sard. defeated Angelico BI in Sassari 78-73. Umana Venezia beat Pepsi Caserta at home 79-74. Novipiu CM lost to CS Bologna on the opponent's court 62-70.
The best stats of 14th round was 19 points and 14 rebounds by Viktor Sanikidze of CS Bologna.


Fabi Shoes - Banca Tercas 65-73

Bottom-ranked Banca Tercas managed to get a third victory, breaking the three-game losing streak on Tuesday night. This time they won against fifteenth-ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro 73-65. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Fabi Shoes Montegranaro won third quarter 23-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Banca Tercas won last quarter 21-15. Montenegrin forward Milos Borisov (201-85) scored 22 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American point guard Dee Brown (185-84, college: Illinois) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Serbian guard Ivan Zoroski (195-79) responded with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Bulgarian power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored 6 points and 13 rebounds. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Banca Tercas maintains seventeenth position with 3-10 record. Loser Fabi Shoes Montegranaro dropped to the fourteenth place with nine games lost. They share the position with Novipiu CM. Banca Tercas will meet at home league's leader Armani Milano in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will play against Pepsi Caserta (#11) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Banca Tercas: M.Borisov 22+9reb, D.Brown 15+6reb+3ast, V.Amoroso 11+4reb+2ast, A.Polonara 9+4reb, B.Brown 6+2reb, Y.Green 4+4reb
Fabi Shoes: I.Zoroski 23+7reb+5ast, F.Di Bella 10+3reb+3ast, T.Kirksay 7+9reb+3ast, G.Brunner 7+4reb+1ast, D.Ivanov 6+13reb+1ast, C.Karl 4+2ast
gschID: 150739


Angelico BI - Banco di Sard. 73-78

There was a minor upset when 5th ranked Angelico Biella (7-6) was defeated at home by seventh ranked Banco di Sard. (7-6) 78-73 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-73. The best player for the winners was American guard Drake Diener (196-81, college: De Paul, agency: Priority Sports) who scored 21 points and 7 assists. American-Georgian swingman Quinton Hosley (201-84, college: Fresno St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. Banco di Sard.'s coach Romeo Sacchetti allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Aubrey Coleman (193-87, college: Houston) produced 23 points and 7 rebounds and Spanish center Albert Miralles (208-82, agency: Interperformances) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Five Banco di Sard. and four Angelico Biella players scored in double figures. Banco di Sard. moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Angelico Biella. Angelico Biella lost third consecutive game. Banco di Sard. will face league's second-placed Montepaschi Siena at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
Banco di Sard.: D.Diener 21+3reb+7ast, Q.Hosley 15+10reb+3ast, T.Easley 13+6reb, M.Pinton 10+2reb+1ast, V.Plisnic 10+3reb, B.Sacchetti 5+2reb+1ast
Angelico BI: A.Coleman 23+7reb+2ast, A.Miralles 16+7reb+1ast, J.Pullen 12+3reb+4ast, T.Dragicevic 10+6reb+4ast, M.Soragna 6+2reb, G.Jurak 6+2reb
gschID: 150740


Umana Venezia - Pepsi Caserta 79-74

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both eighth ranked Umana Venezia and 11th ranked Pepsi Caserta had identical 6-6 record. This time Umana Venezia used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Caserta 79-74 on Tuesday night. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Pepsi Caserta was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Tamar Slay (204-80, college: Marshall) who scored 17 points. The other American import point guard Alvin Young (188-75, college: Niagara) chipped in 16 points. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American point guard Andre Collins (183-82, college: Loyola, MD) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists and Canadian-Dutch forward Aaron Doornekamp (198-85, agency: Interperformances) added 19 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Pepsi Caserta players scored in double figures. Umana Venezia (7-6) moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Pepsi Caserta lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with seven games lost. Umana Venezia will face Benetton Treviso (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Pepsi Caserta will play against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro.
Top scorers:
Umana Venezia: T.Slay 17+3reb+3ast, K.Clark 17+2reb+2ast, A.Young 16+3reb+2ast, T.Fantoni 9+2reb, S.Szewczyk 6+4reb, G.Rosselli 6+3reb+2ast
Pepsi Caserta: A.Doornekamp 19+7reb, A.Smith 17+5reb, K.Fletcher 12+6reb+1ast, A.Collins 10+6reb+10ast, G.Maresca 6+4reb+2ast, A.Stipanovic 6+3reb+3ast
gschID: 150741


Armani MI - Acea Roma 83-75

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Armani Milano as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Armani Milano defeated 12th ranked Lottomatica Roma at home 83-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lottomatica Roma. Lottomatica Roma trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 17-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 75-83 at the end of the game. The best player for the winners was American-Montenegrin point guard Omar-Sharif Cook (186-82, college: St.John's, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 18 points and 5 assists. Swingman Alessandro Gentile (197-92) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Clay Tucker (196-80, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: Pro One Sports) produced 20 points and Bosnian forward Nihad Dedovic (196-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 points respectively for the guests. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Montepaschi. Lottomatica Roma at the other side keeps the twelfth place with eight games lost. Lottomatica Roma will play next round against Novipiu CM trying to get back on the winning streak. Armani Milano will try to continue on its current victory against seventeenth ranked Banca Tercas in Teramo.
Top scorers:
Armani MI: O.Cook 18+2reb+5ast, A.Gentile 17+5reb+2ast, L.Radosevic 11+3reb, I.Bourousis 10+1reb+1ast, A.Filloy 8+3reb+1ast, S.Mancinelli 5+3reb+2ast
Acea Roma: C.Tucker 20+2reb+2ast, N.Dedovic 15+4reb+2ast, A.Crosariol 9+1reb+2ast, U.Slokar 8+4reb, N.Gordic 7+3reb+3ast, M.Kakiouzis 7+3reb
gschID: 150735


Sidigas AV - Vanoli CR 64-62

Sixteenth-ranked Vanoli-Braga (4-10) made lots of trouble for sixth ranked Air Avellino (8-6). Air Avellino managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Vanoli-Braga cut a 15-point first quarter deficit to two at the end of the game. Air Avellino forced 19 Vanoli-Braga turnovers. American-Spanish guard Taquan Dean (193-83, college: Louisville) notched a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort and American-FYR Macedonian point guard Marques Green (167-82, college: St.Bonaventure) supported him with 14 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists and 6 steals. Even 11 points and 8 rebounds by Belgian point guard Beye Tabu-Eboma (190-85) did not help to save the game for Vanoli-Braga. Slovenian forward Marko Milic (201-77) added 14 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Air Avellino moved-up to fifth place. Vanoli-Braga at the other side keeps the sixteenth position with ten games lost. Air Avellino will have a break next round. Vanoli-Braga will play at home against Cimberio Varese (#8).
Top scorers:
Sidigas AV: T.Dean 24+10reb, M.Green 14+6reb+8ast, V.Gaddefors 9+6reb+3ast, L.Johnson 8+5reb, R.Slay 7+5reb, J.Golemac 2+4reb
Vanoli CR: M.Milic 14+7reb, B.Tabu-Eboma 11+8reb+2ast, D.Cinciarini 11+3reb+2ast, D.Lighty 8+5reb, M.Tusek 8+6reb, J.Perkovic 7+6reb+1ast
gschID: 150736


Cimberio VA - Benetton TV 96-80

The game with biggest result difference took place in Varese. Local Cimberio Varese (7-6) beat 13th ranked Benetton Treviso (5-8) 96-80 on Tuesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Cimberio Varese. Benetton Treviso was better in third quarter 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Cimberio Varese made 29-of-30 free shots (96.7 percent) during the game. Benetton Treviso was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was French forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) who scored 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Estonian center Janar Talts (206-83) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds. Austrian power forward Benjamin Ortner (206-83, college: Metro St.) produced 18 points and 9 rebounds and naturalized Slovenian guard Sani Becirovic (196-81) added 19 points and 6 assists respectively for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Cimberio Varese moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Benetton Treviso lost third consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth position with eight games lost. Cimberio Varese will face Vanoli-Braga (#16) in Cremona in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Benetton Treviso will play at home against Umana Venezia.
Top scorers:
Cimberio VA: Y.Diawara 25+5reb+5ast, J.Talts 11+7reb+1ast, R.Stipcevic 11+3ast, J.Hurtt 10+3reb+1ast, T.Rannikko 10+1reb+3ast, D.Fajardo 7+4reb
Benetton TV: S.Becirovic 19+2reb+6ast, B.Ortner 18+9reb, J.Thomas 18+3reb+1ast, V.Moldoveanu 11+3reb+1ast, M.Bulleri 10+3reb+2ast, G.Cuccarolo 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 150737


CS Bologna - Novipiu CM 70-62

Very expected game when 14th ranked Novipiu CM (4-9) was defeated on the road by third ranked CS Bologna (9-4) 70-62 on Tuesday. Novipiu CM was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 8-point lead after three quarters before a 26-10 charge of CS Bologna, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was Georgian forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-86, agency: World Sport Agency) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 14 rebounds. Finnish guard Petteri Koponen (194-88) chipped in 14 points. American guard Mustafa Shakur (192-84, college: Arizona) produced 20 points and his fellow American import guard Matt Janning (196-88, college: Northeastern, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) added 18 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Novipiu CM's coach Marco Crespi gave the chance to play for ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. CS Bologna have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 9-4 record behind leader Armani MI. Newly promoted Novipiu CM keeps the fourteenth place with nine games lost. CS Bologna will face league's second-placed Montepaschi Siena on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Novipiu CM will play against Lottomatica Roma (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
CS Bologna: V.Sanikidze 19+14reb, P.Koponen 14+3reb+3ast, A.Gigli 13+7reb, G.Poeta 9+2reb+4ast, K.Lang 9+4reb+1ast, C.Douglas-Roberts 6+3reb
Novipiu CM: M.Shakur 20+4reb+3ast, M.Janning 18+6reb+3ast, S.Gentile 8+2reb+1ast, D.Chiotti 4+8reb, O.Stevic 4+11reb, G.Temple 3+2reb+1ast
gschID: 150738


Montepaschi - Scavolini PS 75-78

Top ranked Montepaschi Siena (10-3) recorded its third loss at the home court. Hosts were edged by ninth ranked Scavolini Pesaro (7-6) 78-75. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Montepaschi Siena. It looked good early as Montepaschi Siena took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Scavolini Pesaro had a 18-13 second period charge getting the lead and Montepaschi Siena was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 75-78. Scavolini Pesaro made 16-of-21 charity shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Montepaschi Siena was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory by scoring 21 points and 6 rebounds. The other American import forward Jumaine Jones (203-79, college: Georgia) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Australian center David Andersen (212-80) replied with 16 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian guard Igor Rakocevic (193-78) added 16 points and 4 assists in the effort for Montepaschi Siena. Five Scavolini Pesaro and four Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena's coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Scavolini Pesaro moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Defending champion Montepaschi Siena still keeps top position with three games lost. They share it with Armani MI. Scavolini Pesaro will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Montepaschi Siena will play at home against CS Bologna and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Scavolini PS: J.White 21+6reb+3ast, J.Jones 16+11reb+2ast, R.Hickman 14+3reb+6ast, D.Hackett 10+3reb+4ast, T.Lydeka 10+5reb, D.Cavaliero 5
Montepaschi: I.Rakocevic 16+4ast, D.Andersen 16+5reb+1ast, N.Zisis 10+1reb+3ast, A.Michelori 10+5reb+1ast, S.Stonerook 6+7reb+1ast, P.Aradori 5
gschID: 150734




Kevin Garnett to buy shares in AS Roma soccer club - by Eurobasket Center
Boston's highest-paid athlete reportedly thinks now is the right time to invest in Italy.

Boston Celtics power forward Kevin Garnett (6'11''-PF-76) is about to join team co-owner and Boston money man James Pallotta as a shareholder in the Associazione Sportiva Roma the AS Roma soccer club, the Associated Press reported Friday.

According to the AP, Roma confirmed that Garnett had accepted an offer from Pallotta, who along with three other Boston executives holds a majority ownership stake in Roma, to become a limited shareholder. Pallotta, formerly a money manager at Tudor Investment Corp., is now named as an investor in Raptor Ventures, a new Boston venture capital fund that has made at least one investment so far.

In April, a group of Boston executives headed by Boston International Group LLC president Thomas DiBenedetto closed a deal to take a 60 percent stake in AS Roma, becoming the first foreign majority ownership group in the Italian Serie A TIM league.

DiBenedetto is also a limited partner in Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, according to the AP. Earlier this year, Fenway Sports Group sold a small stake in the English Premier Leagues Liverpool Football Club to another NBA star player, the Miami Heat's LeBron James (6'8''-F-84).

In August, Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino told a group of Boston-area medical device executives that Liverpool is likely to play English Premier League soccer at Fenway Park.

With an $18.8 million 2010-2011 salary, Garnett topped the Boston Business Journals list of Bostons highest-paid athletes, this May.

Courtesy of Boston Business Journal

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


Standings - BJ League
BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Hamamatsu P. 13-8 
 2. Akita NH 13-9 
 3. Niigata Albirex 12-8 
 4. Sendai 89ers 11-11 
 5. Toyama Grouses 10-10 
 6. Chiba Jets 10-12 
 7. Shinshu BW 9-13 
 8. Yokohama BC 8-13 
 9. Saitama Bron. 7-14 
 10. Iwate Big Bulls 7-17 
Western
 1. Okinawa GK 18-5 
 2. Osaka Evessa 15-5 
 3. Kyoto Hannar. 15-5 
 4. Shiga L-Stars 15-7 
 5. Fukuoka Rizing 15-8 
 6. Shimane SM 12-10 
 7. Miyazaki SS 10-13 
 8. Oita H.Devils 5-17 
 9. Takamatsu FA 1-21 


BJ League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael PARKER
  Shimane SM
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 24
 1. Parker, Shimane SM24.0 
 2. Palmer, Fukuoka22.1 
 3. Hargrow, Chiba J.21.0 
 4. White, Oita H.20.4 
 5. Humphrey, Saitama20.3 
 6. Woods, Akita NH20.1 
 7. Flowers, Saitama19.9 
 8. Staten, Chiba Jets19.6 
 9. Roberts, Shins.19.5 
 10. Gardener, Akita NH19.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris HOLM
  Niigata Albirex
  (212-C/F-84)
  Avg: 14.3
 1. Holm, Niigata Albi.14.3 
 2. Roberts, Shins.11.1 
 3. Malloy, Iwate B.10.6 
 4. Hamilton, Fukuok.10.5 
 5. Staten, Chiba Jets10.5 
 6. Mims, Sendai 89ers10.4 
 7. Rickert, Kyoto H.10.3 
 8. Blackledge, Osaka10.2 
 9. Allred, Kyoto H.10.2 
 10. Dora, Miyazaki SS10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Kenny SATTERFIELD
  Saitam.
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Satterfield, Saita.7.2 
 2. Yamamoto, Shima.5.8 
 3. Gardener, Akita NH5.6 
 4. Takushi, Oita H.5.0 
 5. Shimura, Sendai5.0 
 6. Dixon, Hamamats.4.7 
 7. Yamamoto, Iwate B.4.6 
 8. Dukes, Sendai 89e.4.6 
 9. Namizato, Okina.4.5 
 10. Shimizu, Miyazaki.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Jamel STATEN
  Chiba Jets
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Staten, Chiba Jets3.1 
 2. Palmer, Fukuoka3.0 
 3. Parker, Shimane SM2.6 
 4. Humphrey, Saitama2.4 
 5. Arnold, Hamamats.2.2 
 6. Hamilton, Fukuok.2.1 
 7. Lyons, Miyazaki SS2.0 
 8. Nakanishi, Fukuok.1.8 
 9. Golson, Shimane SM1.8 
 10. Ohguchi, Hamamat.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeral DAVIS
  Shimane SM
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Davis, Shimane SM3.6 
 2. Blackledge, Osaka3.2 
 3. Singleton, Sendai2.3 
 4. Dukes, Sendai 89e.1.6 
 5. Hughes, Shinshu BW1.6 
 6. Mims, Sendai 89ers1.6 
 7. Flowers, Saitama1.5 
 8. Moliva, Chiba Jets1.4 
 9. Ocitti, Akita NH1.4 
 10. Marshall, Osaka E.1.4 


*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


Kuwaiti Basketball League 2011/2012 - by Eurobasket News
Kuwaiti Basketball League 2011/2012 will start on January 8th. The first round will consist of three games. Kazma will take on AlJahra, while AlKuwait SC will meet Yarmouk. AlQadsia will face AlSahel in the third game.


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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U16 rolled over Finland U16 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16-Finland U16 61:52

Latvia U16 rolled over Finland U16 61:52 in the capital of Estonia. Both teams started their Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Finland took 18-17 after the first period but they could not take the lead at the end of the half. Latvia bounced back with 16-10 in the second quarter and grabbed 33:28 halftime advantage. Moreover they added 15-10 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Gustavs Treimanis top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Rudolfs Stradnieks nailed 14. Artis Arnitis notched 11 and Davis Cima posted 8. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) delivered 13 points in the losing case and Tuomas Hirvonen scored 9.

Latvia U16: Gustavs Treimanis 20+10 rebs, Rudolfs Stradnieks 14, Artis Arnitis 11, Davis Cima 8
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 13, Tuomas Hirvonen 9

Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 started with the win over Finland U18 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18-Finland U18 72:65

Latvia U18 started with the win over Finland U18 at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The winners celebrated 72:65 victory in the opener for U18 teams.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Latvia started with 19-15, but allowed the opponents to reduce to 2 points at the halftime. Moreover Finland needed 16-15 in the third quarter to trail one point entering the last period, while Latvia finished the game with 23-17 to seal the victory.
Ivars Zvigurs (193-G-95) paced all the winners with 17 points and Sandis Ceplitis nailed 13. Roberts Stelmahers (192-G-74) netted 10, while Roberts Krastins (194-F-94) posted 9. Joonas Lehtoranta (185-F/G-94) ended up with 18 points in the losing effort, while Mikael Kauhanen (202-F-94) collected 15 points and 10 boards. Orlando Taylor followed them with 8 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Ivars Zvigurs 17, Sandis Ceplitis 13, Roberts Stelmahers 10, Roberts Krastins 9
Finland U18: Joonas Lehtoranta 18, Mikael Kauhanen 15+10 rebs, Orlando Taylor 8

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


Naglis nearing agreement with Pickett - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Naglis Palangos is looking for additional improvements to their roster. They should sign a contract with a combo guard Rico Pickett (193-G-89, college: Manhattan) in the coming days. Pickett will have a one week trial period and if the management of the team decides he is a suitable candidate, the contract will be signed for the rest of the season.

Pickett, who can play both point and shooting guard positions, was drafted last year in the fourth round of NBDL by Dakota Wizards but was waived later on.

In 2009-2010 season Pickett represented Manhattan Jaspers college team where he averaged 17.7 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1 assist.

Lietuvos rytas and Zalgiris post the victories in VTB League - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos rytas and Zalgiris post the victories in VTB League on Tuesday. Lietuvos rytas edged Spartak SP 72:61 with the victories in all quarters. The most productive was the second frame with 21-16 in it. Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) stepped up with 17 points and Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Seibutis Renaldas posted 13, while Jomantas Arturas delivered 10. Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) and Valery Likhodey (205-F-86) replied with 11 points each in the losing effort and Mavrokefalidis Loukas added 10.
Zalgiris outscored Budivelnyk 74:58 with an easy start. The Lithuanian team started with 25-9 and never looked behind after. Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) top-scored for the winners with 12 points and Rakovic Milovan added 11. Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84, agency: Interperformances) produced 10, while Popovic Marko scored 9. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) replied with 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Alijevas Rolandas added 11.


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Jeretin left Artland Dragons - by Darko Pekic
The experienced Montenegrin guard Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) will have to search for a new club, for the seond time this season. After the brief experience in Lithuania with Lietuvos Rytas, he went to Germany to replace the unjured American Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, college: Bucknell) and in six games in Bundesliga averaged 2.7 pppg, 1.3 rpg and 1.2 spg. However, Bailey recovered before the end of the year and Artland decided not to reniew Jeretin's contract.

Goran Jeretin started his career in Ibon Niksic. He also played for Red Star, Buducnost and many other teams from Turkey, Ukraine, Germany Russia etc. He is the regular member of Montenegro National Team

Transfer Rumours: Buducnost wants Rizvic, Metalac close to sign Bakic - by Darko Pekic
Holidays usually mean that there is no basketball action but it does not mean that teams are not active on the transfert market so we are going to inform you about the latest transfer rumours in montenegrin basketball. Of course, the most active team is Buducnost. The blue and white side is currently negotiating with Bosnian- Slovenian big man Hasan Rizvic (212-C-84). The 27 year old player has gotten the letter of clearance from his previous club Azovmash (Ukraine) and he is looking for a new club. Buducnost needs desperately a dominant big man because the experiment with Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell) did not meet expectations and, after the departure of Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC), Buducnost is struggling under the basket. However, it will be hard to get Rizvic because the rival from Adriatic League, Olimpija (Slovenia) is also negotiating with him. If he decides to return to his former club Buducnost will have to search for other options and will probably look overseas. One of the candidates is Marcus Cousin (211-C-86, college: Houston). The ex NBA player is still fighting to get a contract in the strongest league in the world but if he fails to do so Europe will be his next destination. He has already played in Turkey and Israel but with no success.

Bojan Bakic (197-G-83, agency: Alti Sport), ex player of Buducnost, will probably play for Metalac (Serbia) until the end of the season. Metalac is going to strenghten its roster for the second part of the season and Bakic's experience can be more than useful. The older brother of Boris Bakic (194-G-86, agency: Beo Basket), started the season in Letonia (BC Ventspils) but he is a globetrotter (10 clubs in 12 year long career) and club change is no news for him.

Danilo Mitrovic (208-C/F-84) (Jedinstvo, Ulcinj, Budva etc) signed a contract in Switzerland for the rest of the season. The 27 year old Montenegrin forward started the season in Romania but did not convince the coaching staff in Craiova.


The transfer market window in Montenegro opens on January 9 and ends on January 14. Eurobasket.com will keep you updated on latest roster changes.



*****************************************************
  NBA   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 LeBron JAMES
  Miami Heat
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 29.3
 1. James, Miami Heat29.3 
 2. Anthony, New Y.27.0 
 3. Durant, Oklah.Ci.26.1 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.26.0 
 5. Love, Minnesota T.25.4 
 6. Bryant, LA Lakers24.0 
 7. Bargnani, Toron.22.6 
 8. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.5 
 9. Aldridge, Portland.22.2 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.21.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.3
 1. Howard, Orlando M.15.3 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.15.2 
 3. Hawes, Philadelph..12.5 
 4. McGee, Washingt.11.0 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.10.6 
 6. Gasol, Memphis G.10.2 
 7. Humphries, New J.10.0 
 8. Bogut, Milwauke.10.0 
 9. Haslem, Miami Heat10.0 
 10. Griffin, LA Clipp.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Kyle LOWRY
  Houston R.
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Lowry, Houston R.11.5 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.10.5 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers9.8 
 4. Calderon, Toron.9.8 
 5. Ellis, Golde S.8.5 
 6. Rose, Chicago B.8.3 
 7. Jack, N.Orleans H.8.0 
 8. Nash, Phoenix Suns8.0 
 9. Collison, Indiana7.2 
 10. Felton, Portland7.0 
Steals Per Game
 Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Conley, Memphis G.3.0 
 2. Lowry, Houston R.2.5 
 3. Lawson, Denver N.2.5 
 4. Paul, LA Clippers2.5 
 5. Curry, Golde S.2.3 
 6. Granger, Indiana P.2.2 
 7. Gallinari, Denver2.0 
 8. Allen, Memphis G.2.0 
 9. Westbrook, Oklah..2.0 
 10. James, Miami Heat2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 DeAndre JORDAN
  LA Clippers
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Jordan, LA Clippers3.8 
 2. Stiemsma, Boston3.0 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.7 
 4. Dalembert, Houst.2.5 
 5. McGee, Washingt.2.4 
 6. Chandler, New Y.2.2 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat2.0 
 8. Gasol, Memphis G.2.0 
 9. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.0 
 10. Gasol, LA Lakers2.0 


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


Kevin Garnett to buy shares in AS Roma soccer club - by Eurobasket Center
Boston's highest-paid athlete reportedly thinks now is the right time to invest in Italy.

Boston Celtics power forward Kevin Garnett (6'11''-PF-76) is about to join team co-owner and Boston money man James Pallotta as a shareholder in the Associazione Sportiva Roma the AS Roma soccer club, the Associated Press reported Friday.

According to the AP, Roma confirmed that Garnett had accepted an offer from Pallotta, who along with three other Boston executives holds a majority ownership stake in Roma, to become a limited shareholder. Pallotta, formerly a money manager at Tudor Investment Corp., is now named as an investor in Raptor Ventures, a new Boston venture capital fund that has made at least one investment so far.

In April, a group of Boston executives headed by Boston International Group LLC president Thomas DiBenedetto closed a deal to take a 60 percent stake in AS Roma, becoming the first foreign majority ownership group in the Italian Serie A TIM league.

DiBenedetto is also a limited partner in Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, according to the AP. Earlier this year, Fenway Sports Group sold a small stake in the English Premier Leagues Liverpool Football Club to another NBA star player, the Miami Heat's LeBron James (6'8''-F-84).

In August, Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino told a group of Boston-area medical device executives that Liverpool is likely to play English Premier League soccer at Fenway Park.

With an $18.8 million 2010-2011 salary, Garnett topped the Boston Business Journals list of Bostons highest-paid athletes, this May.

Courtesy of Boston Business Journal

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


NBLC Standings
NBL Canada Standings
 1. London L. 14-4 
 2. Quebec K. 14-7 
 3. Halifax R. 11-4 
 4. St.John M.R. 9-10 
 5. Summerside S. 7-11 
 6. Oshawa P. 7-15 
 7. Moncton M. 3-14 


London Lightning Announce Addition of Braxton Dupree - by Eurobasket Center
The first place London Lightning (NBL Canada) are pleased to announce the addition of Braxton Dupree (203-F-118kg-89, college: Towson, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) to their NBL Canada roster, effective immediately. Dupree is a 6'8' forward from Towson University, who adds a dimension of rebounding and defense to the Lightning.

Lightning General Manager, Taylor Brown, had this to say about the acquisition. 'We were lucky to get Braxton as he was coveted by many other teams after coming from Israel. Hopefully he fits in with our team this late in the season.'

As mentioned, Dupree played Division I NCAA basketball during his collegiate career. Most recently, he was playing in Israel first for Maccabi Ashdod and then was loaned to Ironi Nes-Ziona. While playing 7 games for Ironi Nes-Ziona this season he averaged 8.9ppg and 6.3rpg. Local Lightning fans will have their first chance to see Dupree in action on New Year's Day at 2 pm against Moncton.



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


Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Zack ROSEN
  Pennsylvania
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Rosen, Pennsylvan.19.1 
 2. Hummer, Princeton18.1 
 3. Mangano, Yale18.0 
 4. Bernardini, Pennsy.15.1 
 5. Barbour, Columbia14.1 
 6. Morgan, Yale14.1 
 7. Davis, Princeton14.0 
 8. Ferry, Cornell13.6 
 9. McGonagill, Brown13.5 
 10. Willhite, Yale12.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Greg MANGANO
  Yale
  (208-F-89)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Mangano, Yale9.5 
 2. Hummer, Princeton8.1 
 3. Wright, Harvard7.6 
 4. McCarthy, Brown7.0 
 5. Cisco, Columbia6.6 
 6. Maldunas, Dartm.6.6 
 7. Daniels, Columbia6.5 
 8. Miller, Cornell6.2 
 9. Brooks, Dartmouth6.1 
 10. Casey, Harvard5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Zack ROSEN
  Pennsylvania
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Rosen, Pennsylvan.6.2 
 2. McGonagill, Brown5.7 
 3. Wroblewski, Cornell5.5 
 4. Curry, Harvard4.8 
 5. Bray, Princeton3.9 
 6. Willhite, Yale3.6 
 7. McNally, Harvard3.4 
 8. Barbour, Columbia3.4 
 9. Hummer, Princeton3.3 
 10. Cancer, Cornell3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Reggie WILLHITE
  Yale
  (193-G/F-)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Willhite, Yale2.7 
 2. Curry, Harvard2.4 
 3. Hummer, Princeton1.7 
 4. Bernardini, Pennsy.1.6 
 5. Wroblewski, Cornell1.6 
 6. Belcore, Pennsylva.1.6 
 7. Bray, Princeton1.5 
 8. Cancer, Cornell1.5 
 9. McGonagill, Brown1.3 
 10. Davis, Princeton1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Greg MANGANO
  Yale
  (208-F-89)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Mangano, Yale2.2 
 2. Wright, Harvard1.4 
 3. Miller, Cornell1.2 
 4. Casey, Harvard1.2 
 5. McCarthy, Brown1.1 
 6. Maldunas, Dartm.0.9 
 7. Hummer, Princeton0.9 
 8. Osetkowski, Columb.0.9 
 9. Willhite, Yale0.8 
 10. Barrett, Princeton0.8 


Top 25 - Men
BEC Standings
 1. Georgetown (12) 2-0 (14-0) 
 2. Seton Hall 2-1 (13-2) 
 3. Connecticut (9) 2-1 (12-2) 
 4. Syracuse (1) 1-0 (13-0) 
 5. Notre Dame 1-0 (9-5) 
 6. Louisville (4) 1-1 (12-4) 
 7. W.Virginia 1-1 (10-4) 
 8. St.John's 1-2 (7-7) 
 9. Cincinnati 0-0 (10-2) 
 10. Marquette (14) 0-0 (10-2) 
 11. De Paul 0-0 (9-4) 
 12. Rutgers 0-0 (8-5) 
 13. Pittsburgh (22) 0-1 (11-3) 
 14. Villanova 0-1 (7-5) 
 15. S.Florida 0-1 (7-7) 
 16. Providence 0-2 (11-4) 


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Saar-Pfalz Braves signed Nick Okorie and P.J. Alawoya - by Eurobasket Center
Saar-Pfalz Braves (ProA) added to their roster two new players: Nick Okorie (185-G-88, college: Texas Tech) and P.J. Alawoya (200-F-88, college: McNeese St.) .

Okorie, 24-year old Nigerian guard, played most recently at Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland). While playing 26 games for Salon Vilpas last season he averaged 15.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.2apg and 1.4spg. Okorie graduated from Texas Tech University in 2010 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

Alawoya is 23-year old forward from Houston, TX. Last season he graduated from McNeese State (NCAA). As a senior he averaged 10.2ppg and 10.3rpg playing 32 games. He helped his team to reach Southland Conf. Tournament Final. P.J. was selected to the All-Louisiana 1st Team and All-Southland Conf. 3rd Team. During the summer he attended Eurobasket Summer League in Houston. While playing 3 games for Team Rio de Janeiro his stats were 6.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg.

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


Hodge number one in Poland for Round 19 - by Eurobasket News
Ivorian-Puerto Rican point guard Walter Hodge (183-PG-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Zastal ZG, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (24 points, eight rebounds and nine assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Siarka Jezioro (#8, 8-10) 96-82. Zastal ZG is placed at 6th position in Polish PLK. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Zastal ZG will need more victories to improve their 10-7 record. Hodge turned to be Zastal ZG's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Florida star has very solid stats this year. Hodge is in league's top in points (2nd best: 17.5ppg) and assists (2nd best: 6.6apg).

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old former international power forward Damian Kulig (205-F/C-87) of PBG Basket. Kulig had a very good evening with 29 points and 3 rebounds. Of course he lead PBG Basket to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked LKS Lodz (#13, 3-15) 83-56. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. PBG Basket keeps 10th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-12 record. Kulig is well-known at PBG Basket and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.4ppg (#6). He also registered 5.6 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Jakub Dluski (200-F-87) of LKS Lodz (#13). Dluski showcased his all-around game by recording 20 points, ten rebounds and five assists in the last round. Despite Dluski's great performance LKS Lodz lost 56-83 to the higher-ranked PBG Basket (#10, 6-12). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. LKS Lodz can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 3-15 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Dluski he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Dluski has a very solid season. In 14 games in Poland he scored 7.5ppg. He also has 5.8rpg and FGP: 53.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Filip Dylewicz (202-F-80) of Trefl Sopot - 25 points and 8 rebounds
5. Adam Metelski (208-C-83) of Polpharma - 18 points and 6 rebounds
6. Zarko Comagic (201-F-85) of PBG Basket - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Marek Piechowicz (203-G/F-88) of Siarka Jezioro - 17 points and 7 rebounds
8. Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79) of Anwil - 14 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Oded Brandwein (188-G-88) of Kotwica - 16 points and 5 assists
10. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) of Trefl Sopot - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists

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

Standings - DBE
PLK Standings
 1. Trefl Sopot 13-4 
 2. PGE Turow 12-4 
 3. Anwil 12-5 
 4. Energa Czarni 12-5 
 5. Kotwica 11-7 
 6. Zastal ZG 10-7 
 7. Slask Wroclaw 9-7 
 8. Siarka Jezioro 8-10 
 9. AZS Koszalin 7-10 
 10. PBG Basket 6-12 
 11. Polpharma 5-13 
 12. AZS PW 4-13 
 13. LKS Lodz 3-15 
Play in international cups:
 1. Asseco Prokom - 


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Corsley EDWARDS
  Anwil
  (205-C/F-79)
  Avg: 17.6
 1. Edwards, Anwil17.6 
 2. Hodge, Zastal ZG17.5 
 3. Koszarek, Trefl S.17.1 
 4. Kulig, PBG Basket17.1 
 5. Archibeque, LKS L.16.7 
 6. Lawal, Zastal ZG16.5 
 7. Reese, AZS Koszal.16.1 
 8. Corbett, Siarka J.15.9 
 9. Miller, Siarka J.15.7 
 10. Weeden, Polpharma15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gani LAWAL
  Zastal ZG
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Lawal, Zastal ZG11.7 
 2. Harris, Kotwica11.3 
 3. Archibeque, LKS L.10.2 
 4. Burgess, Trefl S.8.9 
 5. Eziukwu, AZS K.8.0 
 6. Bartosz, PBG Bask.7.5 
 7. Edwards, Anwil6.9 
 8. Doaks, Siarka J.6.7 
 9. Bigus, AZS Koszalin6.5 
 10. Turek, Trefl Sopot6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Skibniewski, Slask7.1 
 2. Hodge, Zastal ZG6.6 
 3. Koszarek, Trefl S.5.6 
 4. Wilczek, AZS P.5.3 
 5. Moore, PGE Turow5.1 
 6. Szubarga, Anwil5.0 
 7. Sapp, Kotwica4.9 
 8. Burrell, Energa C.4.9 
 9. Micic, PBG Basket4.7 
 10. Miller, Siarka J.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Szubarga, Anwil2.1 
 2. Cesnauskis, Energa1.6 
 3. Skibniewski, Slask1.6 
 4. Koszarek, Trefl S.1.5 
 5. Edwards, Anwil1.5 
 6. Sapp, Kotwica1.4 
 7. Nikolic, PBG Basket1.4 
 8. Hodge, Zastal ZG1.4 
 9. Reese, AZS Koszal.1.3 
 10. Wisniewski, Trefl1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  AZS K.
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Eziukwu, AZS K.2.2 
 2. Burgess, Trefl S.1.7 
 3. Kesicki, Kotwica1.5 
 4. Lawal, Zastal ZG1.4 
 5. Morrison, Energa C.1.4 
 6. Lauderdale, PGE T.1.4 
 7. Harris, Kotwica1.2 
 8. Barycz, Siarka J.1.2 
 9. Mladenovic, Slask1.1 
 10. Turek, Trefl Sopot0.9 


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


Rolando Howell is the new Academica player - by Bruno Baltazar
Academica already found the replacement player for Dillion Sneed (203-C-84, college: E.Tenn.St.),his name is Rolando Howell (206-C/F-82, college: S.Carolina) ,he is a PF/C ,inside player ,29 years old ,6'9 tall ,he is a strong rebounder and blocker that has inside shooting skills.
He is a well experienced player ,he played for the S.Carolina Gamecocks when he was in college and after that he played in Italy for multiple seasons and in the very strong ACB in Spain after that Poland and the EuroChallange whille playing there,short trip to Lebanon league and lately in the last 2 seasons in LEB Gold,Japonese league and Argentina as his last destination before the portuguese league when he played there for 6 games.
Academica hopes he will help them rebound a season with various problems and Rolando wants to rebound in Europe coming back to put his numbers...

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  ROMANIA   


Erik Rhinehart landed for CSM Bucuresti - by Eurobasket News
Erik Rhinehart (206-F-82, college: Olivet Nazarene) landed for CSM Bucuresti and will play for the team in year 2012. The American player comes from Kankakee County Soldiers.
In 2001-2002 he started for Kalamazoo (NCAA3) and in 26 games averaged 7.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1 apg. In 2002-2003 for Kalamazoo (NCAA3) his stats read 10.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1 apg.
In 2003-2004 he moved to Olivet Nazarene (NAIA) and averaged 11.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 1.7 apg, while in 2004-2005 his stats read 12.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.0apg.
In 2005-2006 played for SC RASTA Vechta (Germany-Regionalliga, starting five) and in 19 games showed 17.6ppg.In 2006-2007 moved to FMC Capone Dusseldorf (Germany-Regionalliga) and in 2008 appeared for Chicago Windy City Soldiers (IBL, starting five). In 2008-2009 played for kelag Worthersee Piraten (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five) and showed 16.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 86.1%.
In 2009-2010 played for Kankakee County Soldiers (IBL), while in 2010-2011 moved back to kelag Worthersee Piraten (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five). The season 2011 played for Kankakee County Soldiers (IBL, starting five).


CSS Giurgiu sign Damon Powell - by Eurobasket Center
CSS Giurgiu signed 23-year old American forward Damon Powell (198-F-95kg-89). Powell started this season at UBC Hannover Tigers (Germany), but left the team in preseason. Last year he spent ABA (USA). He played fot Chico Rage, in January moved to East Bay Pitbulls where his stats were: 18.3ppg, 11.9rpg, 1.7spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 55.2%, FT: 67%

CSU Atlassib Sibiu eye Cortney Scott - by Eurobasket News
CSU Atlassib Sibiu eye Cortney Scott (196-F-82, college: Oakland) for the rest of the season. The American player practiced with his new Romanian team.
In 2008-2009 Cortney Scott played already for CSU Atlassib Sibiu (Romania-Div.A, starting five). In EuroChallenge he had high 15.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.0apg, while in Romanian League after 34 games his stats read 14.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 51.0%.
In 2010-2011 moved to CS Otopeni (Romania-Div.A) and after 33 games averaged 17.9ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 58.3%. The season 2011-2012 started for CS Otopeni (Romania-Div.A, starting five) and had 12.9 points per game. He recorded 22 points at the Regular Season Round 14.
There was a small surprise when fifteenth ranked Perla Harghitei won against 13th ranked Otopeni in Miercurea 99-95 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 25-15 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Bogdan Tibirna replied with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds and American forward Cortney Scott added 22 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Otopeni.


Ivan Zigeranovic comes back to Gaz Metan Medias - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Zigeranovic (212-C-84, agency: BeoExcell) comes back to Gaz Metan Medias. The Serbian player already played for the team in 2009.
In 2009-2010 for CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A, starting five in Balkan League he averaged 12.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 60.0%, FT: 93.3%. In Romanian League his stats read 11.6ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 6.7%, FT: 74.0%.
In 2010-2011 he moved to PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-PLK) and in 34 games had 5.9ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 61.8%. The season 2011-2012 started for KK Borac Cacak (Serbia-A League, starting five) and averaged 20.5 points per game. In his top game Ivan Zigeranovic recorded 30 points at the Regular Season Round 8. Borac crushed at home Proleter Naftagas by 17 points 81:64, which is the biggest margin that round. It looked good early as Proleter Naftagas took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Borac had a 24-15 second period charge getting the lead and Proleter Naftagas were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 64-81. Ivan Zigeranovic orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field).


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


Krasnie Krilya hand Khimky their first loss - by Eurobasket News
Krasnie Krilya hand Khimky their first loss in VTB League. The team from Samara celebrated 68:67 victory away from home. Trailing 15 points after the first period, the guests won the rest of the frames to seal the victory. Brion Rush (186-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Grambling St.) paced all the winners with 17 points and Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87, agency: Alti Sport) posted 10. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) ended up with 16 points for the home side. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport) collected 15 points and 10 boards, while Zhukanenko Alexey scored 11 points.
Lietuvos rytas meanwhile edged Spartak SP 72:61 with the victories in all quarters. The most productive was the second frame with 21-16 in it. Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) stepped up with 17 points and Valanciunas Jonas collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Seibutis Renaldas posted 13, while Arturas Jomantas (200-G/F-85) delivered 10. Beverley Patrick and Likhodey Valery replied with 11 points each in the losing effort and Loukas Mavrokefalidis (208-C-84) added 10.


*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   


Saudi Basketball Premier League 2011/2012 - by Eurobasket News
Saudi Basketball Premier League 2011/2012 started in the country with few games at the end of December. Al-Ittihad beat Al-Safa 100:50, while Al-Fath edged Al-Wehda 63:49. Uhud celebrated the first victory over Al-Qadasiya 92:58 and Al-Ahli won over Al-Kweldeeh 84:63.
Al-Fath later beat Al-Nahdha 71:69 and Al-Hilal opened the year 2012 with the win over Al-Wehda 71:63.


*****************************************************
  SERBIA   


Sasha Djordjevic moved to Iran - by Nenad Ilijev
Skilled point guard Sasa Djordjevic (190-G-85) continued his career in Iran signing with Superleague side Azad University. Despite tough knee ligaments injury at the end of last season Djordjevic had successful year playing at top Cypriot team Keravnos Strovolou as back up point guard. He overcame injury in fastest way possible and he started season with Sloga Kraljevo team. After just couple of games Iranian team decided to bring Sasha back to this country as he already played in this competition 7 years ago. Djordjevic also played in Poland and Denmark becoming one of the most reputable point guards on the market.

Sasa Djordjevic averaged 18.3ppg, 4.5rpg and 4.0apg in first three games since he arrived in Iran.

Ivan Zigeranovic comes back to Gaz Metan Medias - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Zigeranovic (212-C-84, agency: BeoExcell) comes back to Gaz Metan Medias. The Serbian player already played for the team in 2009.
In 2009-2010 for CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A, starting five in Balkan League he averaged 12.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 60.0%, FT: 93.3%. In Romanian League his stats read 11.6ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 6.7%, FT: 74.0%.
In 2010-2011 he moved to PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-PLK) and in 34 games had 5.9ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 61.8%. The season 2011-2012 started for KK Borac Cacak (Serbia-A League, starting five) and averaged 20.5 points per game. In his top game Ivan Zigeranovic recorded 30 points at the Regular Season Round 8. Borac crushed at home Proleter Naftagas by 17 points 81:64, which is the biggest margin that round. It looked good early as Proleter Naftagas took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Borac had a 24-15 second period charge getting the lead and Proleter Naftagas were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 64-81. Ivan Zigeranovic orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field).


Partizan suspends Acie Law indefinitely - by Eurobasket News
Partizan Belgrade doesn't count on Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) any longer. The Serbian powerhouse suspended American point guard indefinitely and already officially informed FIBA about this move. Law didn't appear at Partizan's practice after the Christmas/New Year holidays. Acie Law supposed to return to Belgrade on January 2, but he informed Head Coach Vlada Jovanovic via text message that he made a decision not to play for Partizan any longer. The reigning Serbian and Adriatic league champion signed a one-season deal with Law last July and the agreement doesn't include NBA out option. Acie Law appeared 9 times in Euroleague this season averaging 12.7 points, 3.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. He also added 9.2 ppg, 2.5 apg and 1.9 rpg for 13 Adriatic league games. Partizan was close to reach Euroleague Top 16, but they didn't make it at the end. In the regional championship they have 9-4 record. Partizan is currently 3rd ranked team in the league.

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  SOUTH KOREA   


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Dongbu Promy 27-7 
 2. Anyang KGC 25-9 
 3. Sonic Boom KT 21-11 
 4. KCC Egis 21-13 
 5. ET Land 17-16 
 6. Mobis Phoebus 15-18 
 7. SK Knights 13-20 
 8. LG Sakers 13-20 
 9. Daegu Orions 8-25 
 10. Samsung Th. 6-27 


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Panko, Lagun A.18.8 
 2. Teletovic, Caja L.17.4 
 3. Davis, Cajasol17.1 
 4. Fernandez, Real M.16.1 
 5. Penney, Fuenlabra.16.0 
 6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada15.9 
 7. Wright, CAI Z.15.5 
 8. Doellman, Assignia14.6 
 9. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.14.6 
 10. Singler, Lucentum14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaloyan IVANOV
  Lucentum
  (205-F-86)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Ivanov, Lucentum8.7 
 2. Davis, Cajasol8.4 
 3. Augustine, UCAM M.8.3 
 4. Ayon, Fuenlabrada8.1 
 5. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.8.0 
 6. Teletovic, Caja L.7.8 
 7. Freeland, Unicaja7.2 
 8. Reyes, Real Madrid7.1 
 9. Baez, FIATC J.6.9 
 10. Williams, FIATC J.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Javier RODRIGUEZ
  Assignia.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Rodriguez, Assigni.5.7 
 2. Markovic, Valencia4.6 
 3. Dumas, B.de R.4.1 
 4. Salgado, Lagun A.3.9 
 5. Oliver, FIATC J.3.8 
 6. Colom, Fuenlabrada3.8 
 7. Llull, Real Madrid3.7 
 8. Huertas, FCB Regal3.7 
 9. Cabezas, CAI Z.3.6 
 10. Rodriguez, Real M.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Rudy FERNANDEZ
  Real M.
  (197-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Fernandez, Real M.2.4 
 2. Prigioni, Caja L.2.0 
 3. Doellman, Assignia1.7 
 4. Barnes, Lucentum1.7 
 5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.6 
 6. Davis, Cajasol1.5 
 7. Rodriguez, Assigni.1.5 
 8. Downs, Assignia M.1.4 
 9. Markovic, Valencia1.4 
 10. Vidal, Lagun A.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 D''or FISCHER
  Gescrap BB
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Fischer, Gescrap BB2.0 
 2. Ibaka, Real Madrid2.0 
 3. Lasme, Blusens M.1.7 
 4. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.6 
 5. Toure, B.de R.1.5 
 6. Baez, FIATC J.1.3 
 7. Begic, Real Madrid1.3 
 8. Landry, Assignia.1.2 
 9. Asselin, Assignia1.2 
 10. Seraphin, Caja L.1.2 


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. FCB Regal 11-2 
 2. Unicaja 11-3 
 3. Lucentum 11-3 
 4. Caja Laboral 10-3 
 5. Real Madrid 10-3 
 6. CAI Zaragoza 7-6 
 7. Cajasol 7-7 
 8. Fuenlabrada 6-7 
 9. Valencia 6-7 
 10. Lagun Aro GBC 6-8 
 11. Assignia M. 5-8 
 12. Gescrap BB 5-8 
 13. GC 2014 5-9 
 14. Asefa Estudian. 5-9 
 15. FIATC Joventut 5-9 
 16. Blusens M. 4-9 
 17. UCAM Murcia 4-9 
 18. B.de Rueda V. 3-11 


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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U16 smashed Sweden U16 in the opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Estonia U16 47:73

Estonia U16 smashed Sweden U16 at the opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side started with an easy 73:47 victory.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Estonia did not waste the time and grabbed an early lead. The host finished the first period with 22-8 and added 24-16 in the second frame. Moreover they produced 15-14 in the third quarter and finished the game with 12-9 in the last stanza.
Karl Jurjens (193-F-96) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) notched 13. Kristofer Kurvits (192-G/F-96) delivered 7, while Ken Lill and Marko Meimer (197-F-96) scored 6 apiece. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) and William Skagius ended up with 11 points each in defeat, whilst Michael Traore scored 8.

Sweden U16: Erik Johansson 11, William Skagius 11, Michael Traore 8
Estonia U16: Karl Jurjens 17, Jaagup Russak 13, Kristofer Kurvits 7, Ken Lill 6, Marko Meimer 6

Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U18 edged Sweden U18 in a thriller - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Estonia U18 66:68

Estonia U18 edged Sweden U18 at the start of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side celebrated 68:66 defensive win to start successfully.
Traditional Baltic Sea Basketball Cup takes place from 3rd to 5th January in Tallinn for the eight year in a row. The games are held in Audentes Sports Centre.
Sweden started with 18-17 in the first period, but the guests could not win the half. The Estonian team grabbed the advantage at the halftime due to 21-15 in the second quarter. Sweden meanwhile produced two minor victories in the second half, however it was not enough for the total success.
Sander Saare (180-PG-94) stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Aleksis Anijarv (180-G-94) added 13. Martin Jurtom (197-F-94) collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while Saimon Sutt (195-G/F-95) scored 6. Jesper Eliasson (201-F-94) finished the game with 16 points and Niklas Larsson (196-G-94) scored 9 in defeat.

Sweden U18: Jesper Eliasson 16, Niklas Larsson 9, Hannes Erhardt (203-F/C-94) 8
Estonia U18: Sander Saare 16, Aleksis Anijarv 13, Martin Jurtom 8+10 rebs, Saimon Sutt 6

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


SAM Massagno signs Danilo Mitrovic - by Luca Maffioli
SAM Basket Massagno added to their roster Danilo Mitrovic (208-C/F-84). The 27 years-old power forward will replace Tony Gugino (207-C-86, college: Hillsdale). Mitrovic played at Beobanka, Avala Ada, Jedinstvo, Ulcinj, Mogren and Rabotnicki. Tony Gugino (207-C-86, college: Hillsdale) leaves SAM Basket Massagno after two months. He averaged 8.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 8 games.

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


Scales back to Mersin - by Sinan Can
ONE of the struggling teams in Beko Basketball League, Mersin Buyksehir Belediyespor, decided to sign their ex-player Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) . Due to the sources from the club, Scales signed the contract and set to be in Mersin within this week. Mersin BSB started the season with Demetri Mccamey on guard rotation along with Antonio Grundy. Anyway, rookie Mccamey decided to leave the club after the Week 8 game against Pinar Karsiyaka. Scales (33) started his Turkish career at Oyak Renault two years ago, signed at Mersin last season and averaged 17.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.5 steals in 24 games. Experienced guard will miss Galatasaray Medical Park game tomorrow, but is expected to play against Hacettepe Universitesi this weekend.

Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Anadolu Efes 10-2 
 2. Fener.Ulker 10-3 
 3. Banvit BK 9-3 
 4. Galatasaray 9-3 
 5. Besiktas 9-3 
 6. Erdemir 7-5 
 7. Karsiyaka 7-5 
 8. Tofas 7-5 
 9. Turk Telekom 7-5 
 10. Aliaga 6-6 
 11. Hacettepe Univ. 5-8 
 12. Olin Edirne 4-8 
 13. Mersin 4-8 
 14. Antalya 2-10 
 15. Trabzonspor 1-11 
 16. Bandirma Kir. 0-12 


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Deron WILLIAMS
  Besiktas
  (191-PG-84)
  Avg: 19.7
 1. Williams, Besiktas19.7 
 2. Gibson, Trabzonspor18.8 
 3. Kemp, Besiktas18.4 
 4. Chatman, Karsiyaka18.4 
 5. Washington, Turk T.18.4 
 6. Grundy, Mersin18.1 
 7. Marsh, Hacettep.17.2 
 8. Karadeniz, Turk T.17.1 
 9. Fisher, Antalya16.9 
 10. Toolson, Aliaga16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor11.8 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne10.4 
 3. Sanders, Hacett.8.7 
 4. Okur, Turk Telekom8.2 
 5. Stanojevic, Karsi.7.6 
 6. Wesson, Erdemir7.6 
 7. McGhee, Bandirma.7.3 
 8. Sonkol, Aliaga7.2 
 9. Buckman, Tofas6.9 
 10. Ilyasova, Anadolu6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Baris ERMIS
  Banvit BK
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Ermis, Banvit BK6.8 
 2. Williams, Besiktas6.4 
 3. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.3 
 4. Ratkovica, Aliaga6.0 
 5. Washington, Turk T.5.7 
 6. Tunceri, Anadolu5.1 
 7. Senturk, Erdemir4.8 
 8. Wright, Olin Edirne4.7 
 9. Steele, Tofas4.5 
 10. Gordon, Galatasar.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Vincent GRIER
  Mersin
  (195-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Grier, Mersin2.2 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.9 
 3. Ermis, Banvit BK1.9 
 4. Vujacic, Anadolu1.8 
 5. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.8 
 6. Kinsey, Anadolu1.8 
 7. Marsh, Hacettep.1.5 
 8. Sanders, Hacett.1.5 
 9. Guler, Turk T.1.4 
 10. Cantitiz, Bandirm.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Matthew BRYAN-AMANING
  Hacett.
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.5 
 2. Qvale, Aliaga1.3 
 3. Erden, Besiktas1.2 
 4. Yucel, Turk T.0.9 
 5. Barac, Anadolu Ef.0.9 
 6. Davis, Banvit BK0.9 
 7. Koc, Tofas0.8 
 8. Robinson, Erdemir0.8 
 9. Gist, Fener.Ulker0.8 
 10. Turkyilmaz, Banvi.0.8 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Aska out as #18 Murray State prepares for Eastern Kentucky - by David Edole

As 18th ranked Murray State prepares for Eastern Kentucky on Wednesday it was learned that the Racers' starting center Ivan Aska (200-F-90) broke his his hand during Saturday's game against Eastern Illinois. While Aska is officially listed as day-to-day, his hand was heavily bandaged and the general thinking is that he will be out for at least a couple of weeks.

'Right now he's day-to-day,' head coach Steve Prohm said. 'He went to the doctor this morning. He has a broken bone in his right hand, the fourth metacarpal. It's not something we can put a timetable on. First we have to get the swelling out and then it depends on his pain tolerance. He's doubtful for Wednrsday and probably will be like that for this week.'

Aska, a 6-7 center, broke his hand during Saturday's 73-40 victory at EIU but finished the game despite being in obvious pain.

'The funny thing about it, I was playing in the game when it broke but I still had my left hand so I kept playing,' Aska noted. 'I could feel the pain but I didn't know it was broken. I'll just keep going to treatment and take it day-to-day.'

With EKU coming to town on Wednesday, Prohm said he hadn't decided who would take Aska's place in the starting lineup, But he said he was leaning toward going with Latreze Mushatt. Mushatt is listed as a 6-5 guard but he can score in the low post.

Eastern starts 6-8 Eric Stutz at center but their next tallest starter is 6-6 Jaron Jones.And Stutz really isn't a power player.

Aska's absence could be a bigger problem on Saturday when Murray State visits Austin Peay. The Govs feature 6-8 John Fraley who can be a beast on the boards and is very physical. Look for backup center, 6-9 Brandon Garrett, to see more action against Peay.

Will Aubrey, Murray State Racers Examiner



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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Randy CULPEPPER
  Fe.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Culpepper, Fe.20.9 
 2. Solomon, Cherkasy20.4 
 3. Burtt, Dnipro19.9 
 4. Deane, BC Odessa18.4 
 5. King, BC Odessa18.1 
 6. Guinn, Fe.17.9 
 7. Minard, Azovmash17.8 
 8. Mitchell, Khimik17.7 
 9. McClinton, Budivel.17.0 
 10. Pecherov, Azovma.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn KING
  BC Odessa
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. King, BC Odessa10.7 
 2. Vukosavljevi., Hal.10.3 
 3. Fraser, DniproAzot8.9 
 4. Davis, Fe.8.9 
 5. Davis, Kryvbasb.8.8 
 6. Korniyenko, Dnipro8.7 
 7. Dunigan, DniproAzot8.6 
 8. Pecherov, Azovmash8.2 
 9. Odufuwa, Halychyna8.1 
 10. Goodridge, BC Kyiv8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Khimik
  (181-PG-84)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Mitchell, Khimik6.3 
 2. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv6.1 
 3. Deane, BC Odessa5.7 
 4. Ewing, Azovmash5.3 
 5. Burtt, Dnipro5.1 
 6. Florence, Kryvbasb.5.0 
 7. Butskyy, Fe.5.0 
 8. Ervin, BC Kyiv4.5 
 9. Morovic, Halychyna4.4 
 10. Vaughn, Mykolaiv4.4 
Steals Per Game
 James FLORENCE
  Kryvbasb.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Florence, Kryvbasb.2.2 
 2. Chappell, Fe.2.0 
 3. House, Dnipro1.9 
 4. Minard, Azovmash1.8 
 5. Tiggs, Hoverla1.7 
 6. Curry, BC Donetsk1.7 
 7. Ewing, Azovmash1.7 
 8. Sirsnins, DniproAz.1.6 
 9. Nelson, BC Donetsk1.6 
 10. Miletic, Khimik1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Vernon GOODRIDGE
  BC Kyiv
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Goodridge, BC Kyiv2.5 
 2. McClintock, Mykola.2.3 
 3. King, BC Odessa2.2 
 4. Davis, Kryvbasb.2.1 
 5. Gorbenko, Dnipr.1.7 
 6. Korniyenko, Dnipro1.7 
 7. Rizvic, Azovmash1.5 
 8. Kravtsov, BC Do.1.4 
 9. Parakhouski, Budiv.1.4 
 10. Wallace, Halychyna1.4 


Chris Monroe leaves Ukraine - by Alexander Muzyka
- American gurad Christopher Monroe (191-G-81) left Budivelnyk and will play for Greek KAO Dramas, Superbasket.gr informs.This player appeared in Kyiv for a short time to substitude injured Jack McClinton (185-PG-85). He scored 8,7 ppg and 1,7 apg. The game vs Khimik was the last for Chris in Ukrainian Superleague. Now Monroe will help KAO Dramas - as it became known, he was signed for a short time, too.

- No matter that Dnipro official site didn't set the information of Qyntel Woods (203-F/G-81) inking. Superleague site has posted his surname in a roster of Dnipro already so this transfer can be called completely made.

Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. Budivelnyk 15-5 
 2. Khimik 14-8 
 3. BC Donetsk 13-5 
 4. Azovmash 13-6 
 5. Hoverla 13-8 
 6. BC Odessa 12-8 
 7. Ferro-ZNTU 12-9 
 8. Dnipro 11-8 
 9. BC Kyiv 10-10 
 10. Mykolaiv 7-13 
 11. Cherkasy 6-13 
 12. DniproAzot 6-14 
 13. Kryvbasbasket 5-14 
 14. Halychyna 2-18 


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


Great Gordon grabs Molten BBL Player Of The Month Award - by Paul Nilsen
Worcester Wolves star Richie Gordon (203-F, college: W.Carolina) has been handed the accolade of Molten BBL Player Of The Month.

The centre enjoyed a truly stellar December with some stunning contributions no better highlighted than by securing three consecutive appearances in our BBL Team Of The Week line-up.

This has subsequently catapulted him into the race to finish with the most appearances this season.

Gordon averaged a superb double-double through the period with 20.3 points and 10.4 points per game to help Wolves rack up more December wins than any other team in the league.

They maintained their tilt at the BBL Championship with six victories during the month and much of their success was due to the prolific production of Gordon who maintained his high level of performance across the eight games.

The Western Carolina graduate shot a field goal percentage of 56.36 and did a terrific job at both ends of the floor with a strong defensive effort helping him to a creditable 2.1 assists per game.

Saving his very best for his last performance of the month, Gordon recorded an eye-popping 29 points and 16 rebounds against Prestige Homes MK Lions which was by far the best display of any player during the final week of the calendar year.



Love to reign as Molten BBL Coach Of The Month - by Paul Nilsen
UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders head coach Gavin Love has landed the Molten BBL Coach Of The Month Award for December.

The play-caller led his team to four victories from five games during the period and ensured Raiders punched their ticket for the BBL Cup Final to be held at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on Sunday 15th January.

The month began with the Raiders giving their BBL Championship title bid a real shot in the arm with a superb 84-62 home success against high-flying hopefuls Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders.

It was then time for the all important two-legged BBL Cup semi-final against Worcester Wolves and in the first game, Love and his players produced one of the best performances seen anywhere in the BBL all season.

Raiders were simply unstoppable as they trashed Wolves 111-83 on the road to put one foot firmly into the Final.

While they lost 24 hours later in the second leg at the Pavilions as a hurt Worcester team came out gunning for revenge and seeking to restore some pride, it made little difference to the hosts who set up a showpiece silverware showdown with Newcastle Eagles.

Love has really had his team firing on all cylinders and looking like contenders for trophies on all front of late.

Jeremy Bell and James Jones have stood out in the backcourt while the trio of Anthony Rowe, Lehmon Colbert and Paul Williams have been a real handful in the paint.

Continuing their good work, Raiders wrapped up a fine month with two comprehensive home victories in the BBL Championship against Glasgow Rocks and Mersey Tigers.

While they still have games in hand to win, a fine December his has put Raiders into an excellent position in the league and therefore it's hardly surprising Coach Love has been crowned as Molten BBL Coach Of The Month For December.



*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Standings - LUB
LUB Standings
Capital
 1. Hebraica 18-3 
 2. Malvin 16-6 
 3. Defensor 15-7 
 4. Welcome 14-8 
 5. Aguada 14-9 
 6. Bigua 12-10 
 7. Trouville 12-11 
 8. Larre Borges 12-11 
 9. Un.Atletica 10-12 
 10. Cordon 10-12 
 11. Bohemios 9-13 
 12. Olimpia 8-14 
 13. Guruyu Waston 8-14 
 14. Montevideo 8-15 
 15. Sayago 7-16 
 16. Cader 5-17 
Littoral
 1. Anastasia 4-0 
 2. Remeros 3-1 
 3. Wanderers 2-2 
 4. Universitario S. 1-3 
 5. Juventus Salto 0-4 
South
 1. Lagomar 5-0 
 2. Plaza 3-2 
 3. Lavalleja 2-2 
 4. Maldonado 2-3 
 5. Flores Trinidad 0-5 


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


Standings
VTB United League Standings
Group A
 1. Khimky 7-1 
 2. Unics 7-1 
 3. VEF Riga 5-3 
 4. Krasnie Krilya 4-4 
 5. BC Astana 4-4 
 6. N.Novgorod 3-5 
 7. Zalgiris 3-5 
 8. Budivelnyk 2-6 
 9. Kalev/Cramo 1-7 
Group B
 1. Spartak SP 7-1 
 2. CSKA 6-1 
 3. Lietuvos rytas 5-3 
 4. Lokomotiv 4-4 
 5. Azovmash 4-4 
 6. Asseco Prokom 3-4 
 7. CEZ Nymburk 3-5 
 8. Enisey 2-5 
 9. Minsk-2006 0-7 


*****************************************************
  WABA LEAGUE   


WABA 2012's Schedule announced - by Omar Shafaamri
The schedule for the high-profile WABA League 2012 has been announced with defending champions Al Riyadi Beirut tipping off the proceedings in Group A with a game against Yemens Al Tilal on Jan 11. Iranian clubs Petrochimi and Zob Ahan will duel in the second game of the opening day.

Five teams each will be involved in an all-play-all round robin in two groups with the top four from each group qualifying to the play-offs quarterfinals.

All games of both groups in the Preliminary Round will be played in Beirut. Group A games will be played from Jan 11-15 with Group B engagements scheduled for Jan 25-29.

Groupings for the Preliminary Round
Group A: Al Riyadi Beirut (LIB), Zob Ahan (IRI), Petro Chimi (IRI), Al Riyadi Aramex (JOR), Al Tilal (YEM)
Group B: Mahram (IRI), Champville (LIB), Al Moutahed (LIB), ASU (JOR), Duhok (IRQ)

FIBA Asia



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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women  


Sloboda adds Osterman - by Zeljko Zule
Bottom placed Sloboda Nov Grad added size and strength to its frontline with the signing of Slovenian national team member Martina Osterman (188-F-88). She started the season with Romanian side Danzio Timisoara and later moved to Germany, where she played just one game for Saarlouis, pulling 3 rebounds in 5 minutes. Osterman averaged 7.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.2 steals and 0.1 blocks in 13 Romanian Divizia A this season.

*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


Standings - WCBA
WCBA Standings
 1. Shenyang 14-4 
 2. Beijing 13-5 
 3. Jiangsu 12-6 
 4. Liaoning 12-6 
 5. Shanghai 11-7 
 6. Guangdong 11-7 
 7. Heilongjiang 10-8 
 8. Zhejiang 9-9 
 9. Yunnan 7-11 
 10. Bayi 5-13 
 11. Shandong 3-15 
 12. Henan 1-17 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Camille LITTLE
  Shanghai
  (188-F/G-85)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. Little, Shanghai25.7 
 2. Ji, Heilongjiang25.5 
 3. Miao, Shenyang25.5 
 4. Camille, Shanghai24.4 
 5. Taylor, Yunnan24.1 
 6. Ji, Shandong23.5 
 7. Mattera, Zhejiang23.1 
 8. Bian, Zhejiang21.1 
 9. Cash, Guangdong19.1 
 10. Junaid, Heilongji.18.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Katie MATTERA
  Zhejiang
  (202-C-82)
  Avg: 15
 1. Mattera, Zhejiang15.0 
 2. Junaid, Heilongjia.12.5 
 3. Black, Shandong12.4 
 4. Little, Shanghai11.8 
 5. Ruili, Liaoning11.4 
 6. Cash, Guangdong10.8 
 7. Jaeschke, Jiangsu10.2 
 8. Anosike, Beijing9.6 
 9. Taylor, Yunnan9.3 
 10. Camille, Shanghai8.5 
Assists Per Game
 LiJie MIAO
  Shenyang
  (180-G-81)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Miao, Shenyang5.5 
 2. Bian, Zhejiang5.1 
 3. Chen, Jiangsu5.1 
 4. Ji, Heilongjiang4.1 
 5. Cash, Guangdong3.6 
 6. Wang, Shanghai3.6 
 7. Wen, Bayi3.3 
 8. Kim, Beijing3.2 
 9. Ding, Guangdong3.2 
 10. Li, Jiangsu2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Zhao SHUANG
  Shenyang
  (188-F-90)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Shuang, Shenyang3.3 
 2. Camille, Shanghai2.9 
 3. Wang, Shanghai2.8 
 4. Anosike, Beijing2.7 
 5. Bian, Zhejiang2.3 
 6. Miao, Shenyang2.3 
 7. Zhang, Beijing2.2 
 8. Li, Jiangsu2.2 
 9. Liu, Yunnan2.2 
 10. Zhai, Yunnan1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Ruth RILEY
  Liaoning
  (196-C-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ruili, Liaoning2.4 
 2. Taylor, Yunnan2.4 
 3. Black, Shandong1.8 
 4. Anosike, Beijing1.6 
 5. Mattera, Zhejiang1.5 
 6. Cash, Guangdong1.4 
 7. Wei, Guangdong1.2 
 8. Nuo, Jiangsu1.0 
 9. Jaeschke, Jiangsu1.0 
 10. Zhang, Beijing0.9 


WCBA Round 18: Shenyang Golden Lions edge Jiangsu Phoenix by one point - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in WCBA is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 4 rounds.

The most exciting game of round 18 in the WCBA took place in Dandong. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 3rd ranked Jiangsu Phoenix (12-6) to first ranked Shenyang Golden Lions (14-4) 78-77 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Jiangsu Phoenix. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-77. Strangely Jiangsu Phoenix outrebounded Shenyang Golden Lions 44-29 including 31 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was international guard LiJie Miao (180-81) who scored 40 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international guard Nan Hu (184-87) chipped in 7 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Shenyang Golden Lions' coach ShuPing Zhan used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American center Amy Jaeschke (196-89, college: Northwestern) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 19 rebounds. Shenyang Golden Lions maintains first position with 14-4 record. Jiangsu Phoenix at the other side keeps the third place with six games lost. They share the position with Liaoning. Shenyang Golden Lions are looking forward to face Guangdong Dolphins (#6) in Guangzhou in the next round where they are favorite. Jiangsu Phoenix will play at home against Liaoning Hengye in Anshan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Qujing Yunnan (#9) forced the game against Guangdong Dolphins (#7) into an overtime, but lost by seven points 78-85. The game took place in Qujing. But the guests from Guangzhou were better at the end. It was a good game for American forward Swin Cash (187-79, college: Connecticut, agency: Josep and Nicolas) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Wei Wei contributed with 22 points for the winners. American center Lindsay Taylor (203-81, college: UCSB) replied with 35 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds for Qujing Yunnan. Qujing Yunnan's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangdong Dolphins (11-7) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Shanghai. Qujing Yunnan at the other side keeps the ninth position with 11 games lost. Guangdong Dolphins will play against league's leader Shenyang Golden Lions in Dandong in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Qujing Yunnan will play at home against Henan Elephants (#12) in Jiyuan and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Anshan was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Shanghai Octopus (11-7) played at the court of fifth ranked Liaoning Hengye (12-6). Liaoning Hengye defeated Shanghai Octopus 66-51 on Tuesday. Ruth Riley had a double-double by scoring 11 points and 17 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Liaoning Hengye's coach Bo Overton allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was Camille Little with 9 points and 9 rebounds. Liaoning Hengye moved-up to third place, which they share with Jiangsu. Loser Shanghai Octopus dropped to the fifth position with seven games lost. They share it with Guangdong. Liaoning Hengye will meet Jiangsu Phoenix (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Shanghai Octopus will play against Heilongjiang Chenneng in Harbin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Beijing. Local Beijing Great Wall (13-5) outscored 6th ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (10-8) 116-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Heilongjiang Chenneng. Nicky Anosike notched 22 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) to lead the effort. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Beijing Great Wall maintains second position with 13-5 record behind leader Shenyang. Heilongjiang Chenneng at the other side dropped to the seventh place with eight games lost. Beijing Great Wall's next round opponent will be Zhejiang Far East (#8) in Hangzhou where they are favorite. Heilongjiang Chenneng will play at home against Shanghai Octopus and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 18 Zhejiang defeated Shandong in Hangzhou 87-77. Bottom-ranked Henan was beaten by Bayi at home 64-78.


Yunnan - Guangdong 78-85 OT

Qujing Yunnan (#9) forced the game against Guangdong Dolphins (#7) into an overtime, but lost by seven points 78-85. The game took place in Qujing. But the guests from Guangzhou were better at the end. The guests were ahead by 11 points but lost the second period ending it with a 3-point deficit before their 17-14 run, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 9-2. Guangdong Dolphins made 16-of-19 charity shots (84.2 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American forward Swin Cash (187-79, college: Connecticut, agency: Josep and Nicolas) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. International center Wei Wei (207-89) contributed with 22 points for the winners. American center Lindsay Taylor (203-81, college: UCSB) replied with 35 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and forward Lin Zhu (180-88) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Qujing Yunnan. Five Guangdong Dolphins and four Qujing Yunnan players scored in double figures. Qujing Yunnan's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangdong Dolphins (11-7) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Shanghai. Qujing Yunnan at the other side keeps the ninth position with 11 games lost. Guangdong Dolphins will play against league's leader Shenyang Golden Lions in Dandong in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Qujing Yunnan will play at home against Henan Elephants (#12) in Jiyuan and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Guangdong: W.Wei 22+2reb+3ast, C.Swin 16+12reb+4ast, H.Hongpin 15+4reb+1ast, G.Xin 10+1ast, W.Jinzhu 10+1reb, Q.Siyue 10+5reb+2ast
Yunnan: T.Lindsay 35+6reb, Z.Lin 14+5reb+2ast, Z.Huan 14+1reb+3ast, D.ChuanXing 12+4ast, L.Xiao 2, J.Yang 1
gschID: 156895


Shandong - Zhejiang 77-87

There was no surprise in Jinan where 11th ranked Shandong (3-15) was defeated by eighth ranked Zhejiang Far East (9-9) 87-77. The game was mostly controlled by Zhejiang Far East. Shandong was better in fourth quarter 26-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zhejiang Far East dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Shandong's 38. They outrebounded Shandong 39-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. American center Katie Mattera (202-82, college: Liberty) notched a double-double by scoring 22 points and 25 rebounds to lead the effort and forward Tong Shi (184-89) supported her with 23 points. Zhejiang Far East's coach Wu Zheng allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 31 points by the former international power forward Xiao Ji (193-85) did not help to save the game for Shandong. point guard Jie Yu (178-88) added 22 points and 4 assists. Zhejiang Far East maintains eighth position with 9-9 record. Newly promoted Shandong keeps the eleventh place with 15 games lost. Zhejiang Far East's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Beijing Great Wall at home and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Shandong will play against Bayi Kylin (#10) in Yinzhou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Zhejiang: S.Tong 23+4reb+3ast, M.Katie 22+25reb, B.Lan 18+3reb+6ast, S.Binbin 9+4reb+3ast, J.AnHui 7+1reb+1ast, G.Jun 4+2ast
Shandong: J.Xiao 31+2reb+2ast, Y.Jie 22+1reb+4ast, B.Chante 11+9reb+1ast, X.JiaWei 7+6reb+3ast, L.Shuo 6+4reb+3ast, J.Fang 0+4reb+1ast
gschID: 156896


Henan - Bayi 64-78

No shocking result in a game in Jiyuan where tenth ranked Bayi Kylin (5-13) defeated bottom-ranked Henan Elephants (1-17) 78-64. The game was mostly controlled by Bayi Kylin. Henan Elephants was better in fourth quarter 22-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bayi Kylin dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Henan Elephants' 24. They outrebounded Henan Elephants 39-15 including a 30-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. International center Nan Chen (197-83) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds to lead the effort and international forward Lu Wen (188-90) supported her with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Bayi Kylin's coach FeiFei Sui allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 29 points by swingman Jie Sun (183-91) did not help to save the game for Henan Elephants. Center Ying Tian (190-91) added 7 points and 6 rebounds. Bayi Kylin maintains tenth position with 5-13 record. Henan Elephants lost thirteenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 17 lost games. Bayi Kylin's next round opponent will be Shandong (#11) in Jinan. Henan Elephants will play on the road against Qujing Yunnan.
Top scorers:
Bayi: C.Nan 21+14reb+2ast, W.Lu 19+5reb+2ast, S.Xiaoyun 12+2reb+3ast, S.Mengran 8+6reb+1ast, H.Qiulou 7+2reb, J.Zheng 5+2reb
Henan: S.Jie 29+2reb, L.Yunyun 9+2ast, T.Ying 7+6reb, W.Jing 7+2reb+2ast, X.Xin 5+2reb, W.Yang 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 156891


Liaoning - Shanghai 66-51

The game in Anshan was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Shanghai Octopus (11-7) played at the court of fifth ranked Liaoning Hengye (12-6). Liaoning Hengye defeated Shanghai Octopus 66-51 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 33-15 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Liaoning Hengye dominated on the defensive end, holding Shanghai Octopus to just 3 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Shanghai Octopus' 22. They outrebounded Shanghai Octopus 41-27 including a 34-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. American center Ruth Riley (196-79, college: Notre Dame) had a double-double by scoring 11 points and 17 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and international forward Zengyu Ma (183-84) chipped in 24 points during the contest. Liaoning Hengye's coach Bo Overton allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American swingman Camille Little (188-85, college: N.Carolina) with 9 points and 9 rebounds and center Lan Jiao (193-88) scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. Liaoning Hengye moved-up to third place, which they share with Jiangsu. Loser Shanghai Octopus dropped to the fifth position with seven games lost. They share it with Guangdong. Liaoning Hengye will meet Jiangsu Phoenix (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Shanghai Octopus will play against Heilongjiang Chenneng in Harbin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Liaoning: M.Zengyu 24+3reb+2ast, Y.BanBan 13+2reb+4ast, R.Ruth 11+17reb+2ast, C.Xiaoxue 4+4reb+1ast, C.Xiaoli 4+1reb+1ast, C.Feng 3+6reb+1ast
Shanghai: J.Lan 11+5reb, H.Jing 10+2reb+3ast, L.Camille 9+9reb+1ast, S.Xiufeng 8+1reb+2ast, Z.Ni 8+3reb, W.Jue 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 156892


Beijing - Heilongjiang 116-78

The game with biggest result difference took place in Beijing. Local Beijing Great Wall (13-5) outscored 6th ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (10-8) 116-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Heilongjiang Chenneng. The game without a history. Beijing Great Wall led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 82 of its points in the paint compared to Heilongjiang Chenneng's 52 and made 19-of-22 charity shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Beijing Great Wall forced 28 Heilongjiang Chenneng turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American center Nicky Anosike (190-86, college: Tennessee) notched 22 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and international forward Fan Zhang (188-84) supported her with 23 points. Five Beijing Great Wall players scored in double figures. Even 20 points by the former international swingman YanYan Ji (182-85) did not help to save the game for Heilongjiang Chenneng. Forward He Zhang (184-94) added 10 points and 7 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Beijing Great Wall maintains second position with 13-5 record behind leader Shenyang. Heilongjiang Chenneng at the other side dropped to the seventh place with eight games lost. Beijing Great Wall's next round opponent will be Zhejiang Far East (#8) in Hangzhou where they are favorite. Heilongjiang Chenneng will play at home against Shanghai Octopus and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Beijing: Z.Fan 23+4reb+3ast, A.Nicky 22+9reb+2ast, K.Yeong-Ok 15+4reb+5ast, Z.Yu 15+4reb+4ast, Z.Lin 13+5reb+1ast, T.Shu 11
Heilongjiang: J.YanYan 20+3reb+1ast, L.JiaCen 16+2reb, Z.He 10+3reb+7ast, G.Song 8+7reb+3ast, S.HaoXiao 7+3reb, J.Rashidat 6+5reb
gschID: 156893


Shenyang - Jiangsu 78-77

The most exciting game of round 18 in the WCBA took place in Dandong. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 3rd ranked Jiangsu Phoenix (12-6) to first ranked Shenyang Golden Lions (14-4) 78-77 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Jiangsu Phoenix. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-77. Strangely Jiangsu Phoenix outrebounded Shenyang Golden Lions 44-29 including 31 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was international guard LiJie Miao (180-81) who scored 40 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international guard Nan Hu (184-87) chipped in 7 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Shenyang Golden Lions' coach ShuPing Zhan used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American center Amy Jaeschke (196-89, college: Northwestern) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 19 rebounds and guard ShanShan Li (177-87) added 21 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Shenyang Golden Lions maintains first position with 14-4 record. Jiangsu Phoenix at the other side keeps the third place with six games lost. They share the position with Liaoning. Shenyang Golden Lions are looking forward to face Guangdong Dolphins (#6) in Guangzhou in the next round where they are favorite. Jiangsu Phoenix will play at home against Liaoning Hengye in Anshan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shenyang: M.LiJie 40+6reb+6ast, L.Dan 12+4reb+1ast, S.Liwei 9+1ast, H.Nan 7+8reb+5ast, S.Zhao 4+2ast, L.Qiu 4+4reb+1ast
Jiangsu: J.Amy 23+19reb+1ast, L.ShanShan 21+6reb+2ast, C.Xiaojia 16+4reb, N.Xu 6+7reb+1ast, X.Hou 5+1reb+1ast, H.Huan 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 156894




*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U18 open with victory - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 - Estonia U18 45:66

Estonian U18 National Team opened the annual Baltic Sea Basketball Cup with victory. The hosts overcame Sweden in the opener. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) stepped up with 23 points to pace the effort.
Estonia led by just a single point 10:9 after ten minutes. They stretched the gap in the second quarter. Estonia established a 30:23 halftime lead. The hosts dominated in the third frame boosting the gap. They entered the final period up by 16 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Greeta Uprus (175-G/F-94) finished with 13 points, while Jane Svilberg (180-F-95) had 10 points for the winners. Veronika Mirkovic (183-C-95) answered with 7 points for Sweden. Gabriella Frykbo (170-G-94) and Sofia Akerman (181-F-94) provided 6 points each in the loss.

Sweden U18: Veronika Mirkovic 7, Gabriella Frykbo 6, Sofia Akerman 6
Estonia U18: Trine Kasemagi 23, Greeta Uprus 13, Jane Svilberg 7


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Sweden U16 beat their Estonian counterparts - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 - Estonia U16 68:54

Swedish U16 National Team victoriously opened the annual Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. They held off hosting Estonia for the initial win. Sigrid Sandstrom posted 13 points and 14 boards to pace the winners.
Sweden eked out a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Estonia bounced back erasing the deficit in the second period. They established a 29:28 halftime advantage. But Sweden surged back in front after the big break. The visitors went on a 21:12 run to ensure an 8-point buffer before the final stanza. Sweden limited the home team to just 13 points in the fourth frame and sealed the win at the end. Amanda Kantzy nailed 13 points, while Kajsa Carlsson had 12 points for the winning side. Tatjana Razguljaeva answered with game-high 25 points for Estonia.

Sweden U16: Sigrid Sandstrom 13+14 boards, Amanda Kantzy 13, Kajsa Carlsson 12
Estonia U16: Tatjana Razguljaeva 25, Laura-Marleen Reissar 10


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  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron bring back Bernadett Nemeth - by Eurobasket News
UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron bring back Bernadett Nemeth (173-G-80) for the rest of the season. The Hungarian player is back to the home country.
In 2006-2007 she played for MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A, starting five) and in Euroleague averaged 4.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg. In Hungarian League after 26 games her stats read 6.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT-2 (89.7%).
In 2007-2008 for MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A, starting five) in Euroleague her stats read 5.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 93.3% and in Hungarian League averaged 9.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 71.4%, 3PT: 50%, FT-1 (91.7%).
After few seasons with Szeviep Szeged, in Jan.'11 she moved to MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A). In Hungarian League after 15 games her stats read 5.1ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.4%. In Euroleague she averaged 3.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg.
The season 2011-2012 Bernadett Nemeth started for Good Angels Kosice (Slovakia-Extraliga). In her top game in EuroLeague she recorded 8 points as Dobri Anjeli celebrated the fourth Euroleague win. They held off Frisco Sika in Kosice to improve at 4-3 record in Group C. Natalia Vieru posted 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Bernadett Nemeth and Lucia Kupcikova provided 8 points each in the win.


*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 edge Finland U18 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Finland U18 77:61

Latvia U18 gained the first win at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup in Tallinn. They toppled Finnish counterparts in the opener. Ance Aizsila (172-G-94) posted 18 points to lead the charge.
Finland got to the better start. They enjoyed a 21:17 lead after ten minutes of action. But Latvia gradually adjusted their defence and limited Finland to just 14 points in the second term. Latvia went on a decisive spurt in the third term. They surged ahead for a 54:48 lead. Latvia controlled the tempo in the final period and raced to the victory at the end. Paula Langina (175-F-94) notched 16 points and 10 rebounds for Latvia. Arta Fridenberga (178-F-95) had 10 points in the win. Emmi Leino (182-F/G-94) responded with 12 points for Finland. Noora Korhonen (182-F-94) finished with 13 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Ance Aizsila 18, Paula Langina 16+10 boards, Arta Fridenberga 12
Finland U18: Noora Korhonen 13, Emmi Leino 12


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Finland U16 prevail against Latvia U16 - by Eurobasket News
Finland U16 - Latvia U16 63:57

Finland U16 opened win count at Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. They overcame Latvian counterparts in the opener. Ninni Salmi (180-F-96) led well-balanced offensive effort from Finland with 12 points.
Latvia ensured slightly better start. They led by three points ten minutes into the game 14:11. Latvia stretched the gap to as many as 6 points 32:26. But Finland stopped the rot in the third term. The Finnish team managed to cut the deficit to 5 points with one quarter remaining. Finland went on a 22:11 run in the fourth term to snatch a win at the end. Lotta Erakangas (181-F-97), Tuuli Menna (180-F-96) and Nina Augustin finished with 8 points each for the winners. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) responded with game-high 24 points for Latvia. Paula Luke (185-C-96) had 10 points in defeat.

Finland U16: Ninni Salmi 12, Nina Augustin 8, Tuuli Menna 8, Lotta Erakangas 8
Latvia U16: Kate Kreslina 24, Paula Luke 10


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


Hueske-Boecher drops out - by Marsha Owusu Gyamfi
Shooting guard Britta Hueske-Boecher leaves BG 89 Avides Hurricanes Rotenburg because of job reasons. She could not refuse a fulltime job offer in Braunschweig in will not return to Rotenburg after the christmas breaks.

The Hurricanes management is looking for a new player and will not change their foreign spots. They hope to persuade Center Katharina Kuehn, who at present lives in Hamburg after her retirement last summer.

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Probuild Lions bring in Christine Presswood - by Bas Hendriks
Dutch Supercupchampion Probuild Lions signed a new player for the remainder of the season. Christine Presswood (170-G-88, college: S.Illinois) is added to the roster that, after the resigntion of Ilana Vergunst and the sacking of Demelza ten Caat needed an upgrade. The 5'7 guard previously played for Highflyers in Switzerland where she totalled an average of 16 points per game. Presswood will add valuable power to the Probuild backcourt of Molly McDowell and Sanne van Dongen and looks to make her debut this weekend.


*****************************************************
  HUNGARY - Women  


UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron bring back Bernadett Nemeth - by Eurobasket News
UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron bring back Bernadett Nemeth (173-G-80) for the rest of the season. The Hungarian player is back to the home country.
In 2006-2007 she played for MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A, starting five) and in Euroleague averaged 4.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg. In Hungarian League after 26 games her stats read 6.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT-2 (89.7%).
In 2007-2008 for MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A, starting five) in Euroleague her stats read 5.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 93.3% and in Hungarian League averaged 9.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 71.4%, 3PT: 50%, FT-1 (91.7%).
After few seasons with Szeviep Szeged, in Jan.'11 she moved to MKB Euroleasing Sopron (A). In Hungarian League after 15 games her stats read 5.1ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.4%. In Euroleague she averaged 3.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg.
The season 2011-2012 Bernadett Nemeth started for Good Angels Kosice (Slovakia-Extraliga). In her top game in EuroLeague she recorded 8 points as Dobri Anjeli celebrated the fourth Euroleague win. They held off Frisco Sika in Kosice to improve at 4-3 record in Group C. Natalia Vieru posted 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Bernadett Nemeth and Lucia Kupcikova provided 8 points each in the win.


*****************************************************
  IRELAND - Women  


Stats Leaders Superleague
Points Per Game
 Rachel VANDERWAL
  UL Aughi.
  (176-G-83)
  Avg: 21
 1. Vanderwal, UL Augh.21.0 
 2. Dwyer, TM Hotel.20.8 
 3. Coady, Waterfor.15.9 
 4. Houlihan, Ulster R.15.3 
 5. Rockall, TM Hotel.15.2 
 6. O''Leary, Singleton15.1 
 7. O''Connor, Liffey C.14.4 
 8. O''Leary, Singleton13.8 
 9. McDermott, UL Augh.13.8 
 10. Dwyer, TM Hotel.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Claire ROCKALL
  TM Hotel.
  (178-G-90)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Rockall, TM Hotel.11.8 
 2. Lennon, Ulster R.11.3 
 3. Solan, Oblate D.9.7 
 4. O''Connor, Liffey C.9.3 
 5. Waters, Singleton9.2 
 6. O''Driscoll, TM Ho.9.0 
 7. Lowe, Liffey Celti.8.7 
 8. McDermott, UL Augh.8.5 
 9. Maher, UL Aughi.8.3 
 10. Dwyer, TM Hotel.8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Danielle O''LEARY
  Singleton
  (--)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. O''Leary, Singleton5.2 
 2. O''Leary, Singleton5.0 
 3. Vanderwal, UL Augh.4.3 
 4. Peat, DCU Mercy3.8 
 5. Dwyer, TM Hotel.3.6 
 6. McKenna, TM Ho.3.2 
 7. Sullivan, Killester2.9 
 8. Rockall, TM Hotel.2.7 
 9. Coady, Waterfor.2.3 
 10. Maguire, DCU Mercy2.1 
Steals Per Game
 Niamh DWYER
  TM Hotel.
  (176-G-82)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Dwyer, TM Hotel.4.8 
 2. Vanderwal, UL Augh.3.8 
 3. Woods, DCU Mercy3.8 
 4. Maguire, DCU Mercy3.4 
 5. Fahy, UL Aughinish3.2 
 6. Rockall, TM Hotel.3.2 
 7. Galvin, UL Aughi.2.7 
 8. Palmer, DCU Mercy2.7 
 9. O''Driscoll, TM Ho.2.7 
 10. Newton, DCU Mercy2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Marta WIELICZKO
  DCU M.
  (--)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Wieliczko, DCU M.1.8 
 2. Lennon, Ulster R.1.7 
 3. Waters, Singleton1.4 
 4. Pupin, Liffey Celt.1.4 
 5. Maher, Waterfor.1.3 
 6. O''Connor, Liffey C.1.3 
 7. Lowe, Liffey Celti.1.2 
 8. Mullally, Waterfor.1.1 
 9. Palmer, DCU Mercy1.1 
 10. O''Leary, Singleton0.9 


Standings - Women
Superleague Standings
 1. UL Aughinish 11-0 
 2. TM Hotel Cork 10-1 
 3. DCU Mercy 8-2 
 4. Killester 6-5 
 5. Meteors 5-5 
 6. Ulster Rockets 4-6 
 7. Waterford W. 4-7 
 8. Singleton 2-8 
 9. Liffey Celtics 1-9 
 10. Oblate Dynamos 1-9 


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL - Women  


Standings (W)
D1 Standings
 1. Maccabi Ashdod 7-0 
 2. Elitzur Ramla 7-2 
 3. Maccabi R.Hen 6-2 
 4. Ramat Hasharon 6-2 
 5. Hap.Petah Tikva 5-3 
 6. Bnot Hasharon 4-3 
 7. B.C. Habikaa 4-4 
 8. H.R. Le-Zion 2-6 
 9. Elitzur Netanya 1-7 
 10. Hapoel T-A 1-7 
 11. Elitzur Holon 1-8 


Best players of Israeli D1 round 9 - by Eurobasket News
American Ashley Shields (180-SG-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Maccabi Ashdod and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 26-year old shooting guard had a double-double of 26 points and eleven rebounds, while her team beat Maccabi R.Hen (#3, 6-2) 91-79. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Maccabi Ashdod to jump to the first place in the Israeli D1. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is already in a full swing and Maccabi Ashdod still have not lost a single game, getting all 7 victories. Shields turned to be Maccabi Ashdod's top player in her first season with the team. SW Tennessee State CC graduate has very impressive stats this year. Shields is in league's top in points (9th best: 18.5ppg) and averages solid 2.5spg and 52.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was another Maccabi Ashdod's star - 30-year old American power forward Plenette Pierson (188-PF-81). Pierson impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds. Of course Maccabi Ashdod cruised to a 91-79 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Maccabi R.Hen (#3, 6-2). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Maccabi Ashdod consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. She plays for the best team in the league and Maccabi Ashdod managed to win all 7 games keeping perfect record. Pierson is a newcomer at Maccabi Ashdod and it seems she did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Angie Bjorklund (182-G/F-89) of Elitzur Netanya (#9). Bjorklund got into 30-points club by scoring 34 points in the last round. She went also for seven rebounds. She was a key player of Elitzur Netanya, leading her team to a 102-72 easy win against Hapoel T-A (1-7). Elitzur Netanya can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-7 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Bjorklund she does not play for a better team. But maybe if she did, her season stats would not be that high. The season just started for Bjorklund as she played only first game. But it already looks like she can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shay Doron (175-SG-85) of Elitzur Ramla - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Sheri Lynette Sam (183-F/G-74) of Hap.Petah Tikva - 15 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Laine Selwyn (172-PG-81) of Elitzur Ramla - 15 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Sherill Baker (174-G-82) of Hapoel T-A - 31 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Alysha Clark (178-F-87) of Ramat Hasharon - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Ambrosia Anderson (186-F-84) of Elitzur Netanya - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Sequoia Holmes (185-F-86) of Maccabi R.Hen - 28 points and 7 rebounds

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

Angie Bjorklund erupted in her debut for Elitzur Netanya - by Eurobasket News
Angie Bjorklund (182-G/F-89, college: Tennessee) erupted in her debut for Elitzur Netanya to help her new team to celebrate finally their first win this season after seven consecutive losses. They used home court advantage to defeat Hapoel Tel-Aviv 102:72. The American player collected 34 points to top-score in the opener.
Today Angie Bjorklund was named the third best performed player of the round. Bjorklund got into 30-points club by scoring 34 points in the last round. She went also for seven rebounds. She was a key player of Elitzur Netanya, leading her team to a 102-72 easy win against Hapoel T-A (1-7). Elitzur Netanya can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-7 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Bjorklund she does not play for a better team. But maybe if she did, her season stats would not be that high. The season just started for Bjorklund as she played only first game. But it already looks like she can be team's leader.
In 2007-2008 she started for Tennessee (NCAA, starting five) and after 38 games had 8.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 38.6%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 87.0%. In her last season there her stats read 10.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 76.0%. In 2011 she was drafted by Chicago Sky (WNBA, 2rd (17) and in 7 games showed 1.1ppg.


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  LATVIA - Women  


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 edge Finland U18 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Finland U18 77:61

Latvia U18 gained the first win at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup in Tallinn. They toppled Finnish counterparts in the opener. Ance Aizsila (172-G-94) posted 18 points to lead the charge.
Finland got to the better start. They enjoyed a 21:17 lead after ten minutes of action. But Latvia gradually adjusted their defence and limited Finland to just 14 points in the second term. Latvia went on a decisive spurt in the third term. They surged ahead for a 54:48 lead. Latvia controlled the tempo in the final period and raced to the victory at the end. Paula Langina (175-F-94) notched 16 points and 10 rebounds for Latvia. Arta Fridenberga (178-F-95) had 10 points in the win. Emmi Leino (182-F/G-94) responded with 12 points for Finland. Noora Korhonen (182-F-94) finished with 13 points in defeat.

Latvia U18: Ance Aizsila 18, Paula Langina 16+10 boards, Arta Fridenberga 12
Finland U18: Noora Korhonen 13, Emmi Leino 12


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Finland U16 prevail against Latvia U16 - by Eurobasket News
Finland U16 - Latvia U16 63:57

Finland U16 opened win count at Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. They overcame Latvian counterparts in the opener. Ninni Salmi (180-F-96) led well-balanced offensive effort from Finland with 12 points.
Latvia ensured slightly better start. They led by three points ten minutes into the game 14:11. Latvia stretched the gap to as many as 6 points 32:26. But Finland stopped the rot in the third term. The Finnish team managed to cut the deficit to 5 points with one quarter remaining. Finland went on a 22:11 run in the fourth term to snatch a win at the end. Lotta Erakangas (181-F-97), Tuuli Menna (180-F-96) and Nina Augustin finished with 8 points each for the winners. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) responded with game-high 24 points for Latvia. Paula Luke (185-C-96) had 10 points in defeat.

Finland U16: Ninni Salmi 12, Nina Augustin 8, Tuuli Menna 8, Lotta Erakangas 8
Latvia U16: Kate Kreslina 24, Paula Luke 10


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Ristic moves to Israel, Osterman joins Sloboda - by Zeljko Zule
Katarina Ristic (174-G-84) has left Asteras Exarhion to join Israeli team Hapoel Petah Tikva for the remainder of the current season. She averaged 14.3 points (2P 37%, 3P 36%, FT 82%), 3.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 0.8 steals in 11 Greek League games this season.
Martina Osterman (188-F-88) inked with Bosnian team Sloboda Novi Grad. She started the season with Romanian side Daciu and later moved to Germany, where she played just one game for Saarlouis, pulling 3 rebounds in 5 minutes.


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Standings - WKBL
WKBL Standings
 1. S-Birds 20-3 
 2. Winnus 15-9 
 3. Bichumi 13-10 
 4. KB Stars 10-13 
 5. Cool Cats 7-16 
 6. Woori Hansae 4-18 


WKBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jung-Eun KIM
  Cool Cats
  (180-F-87)
  Avg: 19
 1. Kim, Cool Cats19.0 
 2. Jung, KB Stars16.4 
 3. Kang, S-Birds15.9 
 4. Han, Winnus14.8 
 5. Cho, Winnus14.8 
 6. Sin, Winnus14.6 
 7. Kim, Cool Cats14.5 
 8. Lee, S-Birds14.3 
 9. Lim, Woori Hansae14.0 
 10. Kim, S-Birds13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jung Ja SIN
  Winnus
  (185-F/C-80)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Sin, Winnus12.7 
 2. Heo, Cool Cats9.0 
 3. Kang, S-Birds8.5 
 4. Jung, KB Stars7.0 
 5. Bae, Woori Hansae6.5 
 6. Gang, Cool Cats6.3 
 7. Kim, S-Birds6.2 
 8. Kim, Bichumi6.1 
 9. Choi, S-Birds6.0 
 10. Yang, Woori Hans.5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 7
 1. Lee, Bichumi7.0 
 2. Kim, Cool Cats6.5 
 3. Choi, S-Birds6.0 
 4. Lee, Winnus4.3 
 5. Sin, Winnus4.1 
 6. Park, KB Stars3.9 
 7. Heo, Cool Cats3.8 
 8. Kim, S-Birds3.7 
 9. Park, Bichumi3.5 
 10. Kim, Cool Cats3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lee, Bichumi2.4 
 2. Han, Winnus2.2 
 3. Choi, S-Birds1.7 
 4. Lee, S-Birds1.7 
 5. Roberson, Bichumi1.6 
 6. Jung, KB Stars1.4 
 7. Beon, KB Stars1.2 
 8. Cho, Winnus1.1 
 9. Bae, Woori Hansae1.0 
 10. Sin, Winnus1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sun-Hwa JUNG
  KB Stars
  (184-C/F-85)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Jung, KB Stars1.7 
 2. Kang, S-Birds1.3 
 3. Gang, Cool Cats1.3 
 4. Kim, S-Birds1.2 
 5. Sin, Winnus1.2 
 6. Kim, Cool Cats0.9 
 7. Ha, S-Birds0.7 
 8. Roberson, Bichumi0.7 
 9. Yang, Woori Hansae0.6 
 10. Kim, Woori Hansae0.6 


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Standings - LFB
LFB Standings
 1. Ros Casares 11-0 
 2. Perfumerias 10-1 
 3. Girona 9-4 
 4. Rivas Ecopolis 8-3 
 5. Mariana 8-3 
 6. Mann Filter 7-4 
 7. Cadi la Seu 6-5 
 8. Gran Canaria 5-6 
 9. Burgos 4-7 
 10. Cajarural 4-7 
 11. Hondar.-Irun 2-9 
 12. Real C.Vigo 2-9 
 13. Navarra 2-11 
 14. Ibiza 1-10 


Stats Leaders - LFB
Points Per Game
 Astou TRAORE
  Mariana
  (182-F/C-81)
  Avg: 21.2
 1. Traore, Mariana21.2 
 2. Moss, Gran Canaria20.5 
 3. Mosby, Cajarural17.5 
 4. Ross, Cadi la Seu17.5 
 5. Yacoubou-D., Ros16.7 
 6. Murphy, Ros C.16.6 
 7. Morrison, Burgos16.5 
 8. Bonner, Perfumer.16.3 
 9. Ferrari, Mariana16.2 
 10. Vega, Girona16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Angelica ROBINSON
  Girona
  (196-F-87)
  Avg: 13.1
 1. Robinson, Girona13.1 
 2. Morrison, Burgos10.8 
 3. Ble, Gran Canaria9.9 
 4. Lyttle, Ros Casar.9.3 
 5. Dennett, Ibiza8.5 
 6. De Souza, Perfumer.8.4 
 7. Swords, Mariana8.4 
 8. Yacoubou-D., Ros8.3 
 9. Ndour, Gran Canaria8.2 
 10. Jones, Rivas Ecop.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Laia PALAU
  Ros Casares
  (178-G-79)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Palau, Ros Casares5.5 
 2. Infantes, Burgos5.5 
 3. Ocete, Mariana5.3 
 4. Ferrari, Mariana4.3 
 5. Dominguez, Ros C.4.1 
 6. Morales, Ibiza3.7 
 7. Jordana, Girona3.5 
 8. Xargay Casad., Per.3.3 
 9. Ouvina, Mann Filter3.3 
 10. Honti, Ros Casar.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Adrianne ROSS
  Cadi la Seu
  (173-G-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Ross, Cadi la Seu3.0 
 2. Ouvina, Mann Filter2.6 
 3. Scanlon, Ibiza2.5 
 4. Murphy, Ros C.2.2 
 5. Karklina, Cadi la2.1 
 6. Lyttle, Ros Casar.2.1 
 7. Cruz, Rivas Ecopol.2.0 
 8. Parham, Cajarural2.0 
 9. Garcia, Cajarural1.8 
 10. Garcia, Cadi la S.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jacinta MONROE
  Mann F.
  (193-F/C-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Monroe, Mann F.1.8 
 2. Spears, Mariana1.4 
 3. De Souza, Perfumer.1.3 
 4. Stevenson, Cadi l.1.0 
 5. Bonner, Perfumer.1.0 
 6. Swords, Mariana0.9 
 7. Morrison, Burgos0.8 
 8. Pirsic, Ibiza0.8 
 9. Parham, Cajarural0.8 
 10. Gomez, Hondar.-.0.7 


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN - Women  


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U18 open with victory - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 - Estonia U18 45:66

Estonian U18 National Team opened the annual Baltic Sea Basketball Cup with victory. The hosts overcame Sweden in the opener. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) stepped up with 23 points to pace the effort.
Estonia led by just a single point 10:9 after ten minutes. They stretched the gap in the second quarter. Estonia established a 30:23 halftime lead. The hosts dominated in the third frame boosting the gap. They entered the final period up by 16 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Greeta Uprus (175-G/F-94) finished with 13 points, while Jane Svilberg (180-F-95) had 10 points for the winners. Veronika Mirkovic (183-C-95) answered with 7 points for Sweden. Gabriella Frykbo (170-G-94) and Sofia Akerman (181-F-94) provided 6 points each in the loss.

Sweden U18: Veronika Mirkovic 7, Gabriella Frykbo 6, Sofia Akerman 6
Estonia U18: Trine Kasemagi 23, Greeta Uprus 13, Jane Svilberg 7


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Sweden U16 beat their Estonian counterparts - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 - Estonia U16 68:54

Swedish U16 National Team victoriously opened the annual Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. They held off hosting Estonia for the initial win. Sigrid Sandstrom posted 13 points and 14 boards to pace the winners.
Sweden eked out a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Estonia bounced back erasing the deficit in the second period. They established a 29:28 halftime advantage. But Sweden surged back in front after the big break. The visitors went on a 21:12 run to ensure an 8-point buffer before the final stanza. Sweden limited the home team to just 13 points in the fourth frame and sealed the win at the end. Amanda Kantzy nailed 13 points, while Kajsa Carlsson had 12 points for the winning side. Tatjana Razguljaeva answered with game-high 25 points for Estonia.

Sweden U16: Sigrid Sandstrom 13+14 boards, Amanda Kantzy 13, Kajsa Carlsson 12
Estonia U16: Tatjana Razguljaeva 25, Laura-Marleen Reissar 10


*****************************************************
  UBA - Women  


WUBA Standings
WUBA Standings
Northern Conference
 1. Queen City G. 3-0
 2. Seven Hills F. 2-1
 3. Sharonville F. 1-1
 4. Cinncinatti S. 0-2
Southern Conference
 1. GIE Disciples 3-0
 2. Metro A. Sparks 2-0
 3. Southern G. 1-2
 4. Tennessee D. 0-2
 5. Atlanta A. 0-3