EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/5/2012

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Langford's 18 points and 6 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old swingman Keith Langford (193-G/F-83) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Maccabi T-A and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
He had the game-high 18 points adding six rebounds and two assists for Maccabi T-A in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Hemofarm (#11, 4-9) with 26-point margin 85-59. It allowed Maccabi T-A to take over top position in the Adriatic League Round 6. Maccabi T-A has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 12-1. It was one of impressive evenings for Langford as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Keith Langford averages this season 11.1ppg.

Second best performed player last round was D.J. Gay (183-G-89) of Helios. He is American guard in his first season at Helios. In the last game Gay recorded impressive 26 points and 4 rebounds. It was enough for Helios to edge the higher-ranked Cibona (#7, 7-6) by 2 points 78-76. This victory allowed Helios to move up to 12th position in . 10 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Helios managed to get this year. Gay is a newcomer at Helios and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82) of league's second-best Cedevita. Vukusic scored 20 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Cedevita, leading his team to a 78-74 win against the lower-ranked Hemofarm (#11, 4-9). Cedevita is closer and closer to the top of the standings in . They will still need more victories. But 11-2 record is not that bad... Vukusic has a very solid season. In 13 games in Adriatic League he scored 8.6ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) of Partizan - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Ivan Maras (208-C/F-86) of Hemofarm - 13 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) of Krka - 19 points and 6 rebounds
7. Andrija Zizic (207-C-80) of Cibona - 18 points and 7 rebounds
8. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) of Siroki WWin - 16 points and 9 rebounds
9. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83) of Maccabi T-A - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Mario Kasun (213-C-80) of KK Zagreb CO - 19 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)

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  AUSTRALIA   


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Cameron TRAGARDH
  Tigers
  (209-C/F-83)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Tragardh, Tigers19.3 
 2. Mills, Tigers18.6 
 3. Khazzouh, Kings17.4 
 4. Crawford, Croco.17.3 
 5. Johnson, 36ers17.1 
 6. Lisch, Wildcats17.1 
 7. Wilson, Taipans17.0 
 8. Wilkinson, Breakers15.9 
 9. Warren, 36ers15.9 
 10. Simpsons, 36ers15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Khazzouh, Kings11.0 
 2. Holmes, Crocodiles9.2 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers8.5 
 4. Crosswhite, Taipa.8.5 
 5. Grant, Kings8.4 
 6. Johnson, 36ers7.8 
 7. Vukona, Breakers6.7 
 8. Worthington, Blaze6.7 
 9. Bose, Kings6.5 
 10. Saville, Hawks6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Jackson, Breakers5.6 
 2. Mills, Tigers5.0 
 3. Gibson, Blaze4.8 
 4. Crosswell, 36ers4.7 
 5. Gill, Crocodiles4.6 
 6. Bruce, Kings4.5 
 7. Martin, Wildcats3.7 
 8. Martin, Hawks3.6 
 9. Warren, 36ers3.3 
 10. Wilson, Taipans3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Jackson, Breakers2.7 
 2. Martin, Wildcats2.1 
 3. Robbins, Wildcats1.8 
 4. Mims, Crocodiles1.7 
 5. Gibson, Blaze1.4 
 6. Crawford, Croco.1.2 
 7. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
 8. Deleon, Blaze1.1 
 9. Glover, Hawks1.0 
 10. Lisch, Wildcats1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Khazzouh, Kings2.3 
 2. Grant, Kings1.6 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers1.3 
 4. Johnson, 36ers1.3 
 5. Worthington, Blaze1.2 
 6. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.0 
 7. Nevill, Wildcats1.0 
 8. Knight, Wildcats1.0 
 9. Martin, Wildcats0.9 
 10. Abercrombie, Brea.0.9 


Bogut leaves Bucks for personal reasons - by Eurobasket News
Andrew Bogut (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) left the Milwaukee Bucks for undisclosed personal reasons and missed Tuesday night's game against the Utah Jazz.

His last entry on his personal Twitter feed - ''On to the next one. No road win is easy.... Flying to Utah shortly'' - was posted shortly after the Bucks lost to Denver, 91-86 Monday night. However, he was not with the team for shootaround earlier Tuesday.

Bogut, who is averaging 14.3 points and 10.0 rebounds after elbow surgery ended last season, was replaced in the starting lineup by Drew Gooden.

Mike Dunleavy, who missed the loss to the Nuggets with flu-like symptoms, was also not with the team due to groin pain. Carlos Delfino took Dunleavy's starting spot.

Reserve guard Beno Udrih has been dealing with a left shoulder sprain and also did not dress for the game against the Jazz.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

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


Cameron Tragardh takes weekly award - by Eurobasket News
Melbourne Tigers star Cameron Tragardh (209-C/F-83, college: ORU) has broken through to win the National Basketball Leagues Player of the Week for Round 13 of the iiNet NBL Championship after playing a key role in his clubs nail-biting road win over the Gold Coast Blaze.

Tragardh scored 25 points and added six rebounds and one block as the Tigers roared back from a slow first half to defeat the Blaze at The Furnace (AKA the Gold Coast Convention Centre) on New Years Eve, 79-72.

The Blaze looked set to swamp the Tigers in the first half, but Tragardh kept the Tigers in the game as he made 12-of-20 shots from the field for the match (60%).

Despite the fact that the 209cm forward is currently leading the NBL in scoring at 18.9 points per game, the award is his first weekly honour this season.

To break through for the win, the established big man had to fight off a serious challenge from the next generation of NBL bigs.

Adelaides Daniel Johnson was only narrowly edged out by Tragardh after a magnificent performance in his teams 96-77 road win over the Sydney Kings. Johnson scored 21 points and added 14 rebounds in yet another strong outing by one of the sports true rising stars.

Cairns Taipans forward Alex Loughton was also a leading contender for the weekly honours in Round 13 as was Perths Luke Nevill. Loughton scored 20 points and added four rebounds and three assists as the Snakes upset the visiting New Zealand Breakers, 74-57, before a sold-out crowd at the Cairns Convention Centre on New Years Eve.

Towering Wildcats centre Luke Nevill had 21 points and seven rebounds as Perth moved past New Zealand into top spot on the NBL ladder with a 97-76 road win over Townsville on Saturday.

Others considered for Player of the Week for Round 13 included Anatoly Bose (Sydney), Liam Rush (Melbourne), Jesse Wagstaff (Perth), Jamar Wilson (Cairns), Peter Crawford (Townsville), Mark Worthington (Gold Coast), Kevin Lisch (Perth), Damian Martin (Perth), and Tim Coenraad (Wollongong).


2011/12 iiNet NBL Championship Player of the Week Winners

Round 1 Patty Mills (Melbourne Tigers)

Round 2 Shawn Redhage (Perth Wildcats)

Round 3 Julian Khazzouh (Sydney Kings)

Round 4 Daniel Johnson (Adelaide 36ers)

Round 5 Gary Wilkinson (New Zealand Breakers)

Round 6 Eddie Gill (Townsville Crocodiles)

Round 7 Jamar Wilson (Cairns Taipans)

Round 8 Adris Deleon (Gold Coast Blaze)

Round 9 Thomas Abercrombie (New Zealand Breakers)

Round 10 Jamar Wilson (Cairns Taipans)

Round 11 Adam Gibson (Gold Coast Blaze)

Round 12 Eddie Gill (Townsville Crocodiles)

Round 13 Cameron Tragardh (Melbourne Tigers)

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)



NBL Round 13: New Zealand Breakers lose the game and top position - by Eurobasket News
There was a change at the NBL leadership position after last games. Round 13 most important game was a defeat of league's leader New Zealand Breakers (10-5). They were defeated by sixth ranked Cairns Taipans (7-7) 74-57 on Saturday night. The game without a history. Cairns Taipans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Cairns Taipans forced 24 New Zealand Breakers turnovers. The former international power forward Alexander Loughton (205-83, college: ODU) stepped up and scored 20 points and 4 steals for the winners and American point guard Jamar Wilson (185-84, college: Albany, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side Fiji-New Zealand forward Mika Vukona (198-82) responded with 9 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Cairns Taipans moved-up to fourth place. New Zealand Breakers at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Wildcats who have the same record. New Zealand Breakers will play next round against strong Melbourne Tigers trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Cairns Taipans will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Adelaide 36ers in Findon.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Broadbeach. 4th placed host Gold Coast Blaze (6-6) lost to third ranked Melbourne Tigers (9-6) 79-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Gold Coast Blaze. International power forward Cameron Tragardh (209-83, college: ORU) nailed 25 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and Liam Rush accounted for 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). The former international forward Mark Worthington (202-83, college: Metro St.) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Gold Coast Blaze in the defeat. Melbourne Tigers have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 9-6 record behind leader Wildcats. Gold Coast Blaze at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with Crocodiles. Melbourne Tigers will play against league's second-placed New Zealand Breakers in Auckland in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gold Coast Blaze will play on the road against Kings (#5) in Sydney and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Wulguru supposed to be also quite interesting. Second ranked Perth Wildcats (10-5) played at the court of 5th ranked Townsville Crocodiles (6-6). Perth Wildcats smashed Townsville Crocodiles 97-76 on Saturday. Luke Nevill fired 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners. Perth Wildcats' coach Rob Beveridge felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Peter Crawford produced 14 points and 6 rebounds for lost side. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Breakers. Loser Townsville Crocodiles dropped to the sixth place with six games lost. They share the position with Blaze. Perth Wildcats will meet at home Melbourne Tigers (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Townsville Crocodiles will play against Wollongong Hawks in Gwynneville and hope to secure a win.
A very interesting game took place in Gwynneville. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 9th ranked Wollongong Hawks (3-10) to seventh ranked Kings (7-9) 86-83 on Saturday evening. Worth to mention a great performance of Anatoly Bose who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 7 rebounds. Kings' coach Ian Robilliard allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Kings moved-up to fifth place. Wollongong Hawks lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Kings' next round opponent will be Gold Coast Blaze (#6) in Broadbeach. Wollongong Hawks will play at home against Townsville Crocodiles in Wulguru and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 13 36ers destroyed Kings on the opponent's court 96-77.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 21 points and 14 rebounds by Daniel Johnson of 36ers.


Taipans - Breakers 74-57

There was a change at the NBL leadership position after last games. Round 13 most important game was a defeat of league's leader New Zealand Breakers (10-5). They were defeated by sixth ranked Cairns Taipans (7-7) 74-57 on Saturday night. The game without a history. Cairns Taipans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Cairns Taipans forced 24 New Zealand Breakers turnovers. The former international power forward Alexander Loughton (205-83, college: ODU) stepped up and scored 20 points and 4 steals for the winners and American point guard Jamar Wilson (185-84, college: Albany, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side Fiji-New Zealand forward Mika Vukona (198-82) responded with 9 points and 9 rebounds and New Zealand center Alex Pledger (213-87, college: Belm.Abbey) scored 10 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Cairns Taipans moved-up to fourth place. New Zealand Breakers at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Wildcats who have the same record. New Zealand Breakers will play next round against strong Melbourne Tigers trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Cairns Taipans will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Adelaide 36ers in Findon.
Top scorers:
Breakers: A.Pledger 10+7reb, G.Wilkinson 9+4reb, M.Vukona 9+9reb, D.Corletto 8+1ast, T.Abercrombie 8+2reb, C.Bruton 6+2reb
Taipans: A.Loughton 20+4reb+3ast, J.Wilson 18+7reb+1ast, I.Crosswhite 12+8reb+1ast, A.Grabau 8+1reb+2ast, J.Dowdell 6+1reb, A.Warren 5+4reb+2ast
gschID: 138881


Blaze - Tigers 72-79

The game between Top Four teams took place in Broadbeach. 4th placed host Gold Coast Blaze (6-6) lost to third ranked Melbourne Tigers (9-6) 79-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Gold Coast Blaze. Gold Coast Blaze was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 24-14 charge of Melbourne Tigers, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Gold Coast Blaze to just 6 points in third quarter. International power forward Cameron Tragardh (209-83, college: ORU) nailed 25 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and the former international forward Liam Rush (202-82) accounted for 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Melbourne Tigers players scored in double figures. The former international forward Mark Worthington (202-83, college: Metro St.) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds and the former international power forward Anthony Petrie (203-83) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Gold Coast Blaze in the defeat. Melbourne Tigers have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 9-6 record behind leader Wildcats. Gold Coast Blaze at the other side dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with Crocodiles. Melbourne Tigers will play against league's second-placed New Zealand Breakers in Auckland in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gold Coast Blaze will play on the road against Kings (#5) in Sydney and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Blaze: M.Worthington 17+8reb+1ast, A.Petrie 15+5reb+2ast, C.Goulding 9, A.Gibson 9+4reb+5ast, A.Deleon 8+3reb+3ast, W.Hudson 6+6reb+1ast
Tigers: C.Tragardh 25+6reb, L.Rush 20+6reb, A.Ubaka 15+4reb+1ast, D.Dillon 13+7reb+4ast, R.Dorsey 2+4reb+1ast, T.Lang 2
gschID: 138882


Crocodiles - Wildcats 76-97

The game in Wulguru supposed to be also quite interesting. Second ranked Perth Wildcats (10-5) played at the court of 5th ranked Townsville Crocodiles (6-6). Perth Wildcats smashed Townsville Crocodiles 97-76 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Perth Wildcats. Townsville Crocodiles managed to win second period 28-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Perth Wildcats dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Townsville Crocodiles' 40. They outrebounded Townsville Crocodiles 44-25 including 16 on the offensive glass. Perth Wildcats looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Townsville Crocodiles' players. The former international center Luke Nevill (218-86, college: Utah) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners. American guard Kevin Lisch (188-86, college: St.Louis, agency: Warren Sports International) chipped in 16 points and 8 assists. Perth Wildcats' coach Rob Beveridge felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The former international swingman Peter Crawford (193-79) produced 14 points and 6 rebounds and the former international center Luke Schenscher (216-82, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Priority Sports) added 10 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Perth Wildcats and five Townsville Crocodiles players scored in double figures. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Breakers. Loser Townsville Crocodiles dropped to the sixth place with six games lost. They share the position with Blaze. Perth Wildcats will meet at home Melbourne Tigers (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Townsville Crocodiles will play against Wollongong Hawks in Gwynneville and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Crocodiles: P.Crawford 14+6reb+2ast, T.Blanchfield 12+2reb+1ast, J.Holmes 11+4reb+1ast, E.Gill 11+2reb+2ast, L.Schenscher 10+5reb+2ast, M.Cedar 7+2ast
Wildcats: L.Nevill 21+7reb+1ast, J.Wagstaff 18+3reb+1ast, K.Lisch 16+8ast, S.Redhage 13+3reb+3ast, M.Knight 12+9reb+1ast, D.Martin 9+7reb+5ast
gschID: 138883


Hawks - Kings 83-86

A very interesting game took place in Gwynneville. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 9th ranked Wollongong Hawks (3-10) to seventh ranked Kings (7-9) 86-83 on Saturday evening. The guests were already 11 points ahead at halftime and as many as 12 after three quarters before a 35-26 last quarter charge of Wollongong Hawks cut the lead to 86-83 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Wollongong Hawks 43-31 including 30 on the defensive glass. 28 personal fouls committed by Wollongong Hawks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Kazakhstan swingman Anatoly Bose (200-88, college: Nicholls St., agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Jerai Grant (203-89, college: Clemson) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Kings' coach Ian Robilliard allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. The former international swingman Glen Saville (197-76) answered with 14 points and 6 rebounds and swingman Timothy Coenraad (201-85, college: Nova SE) added 18 points in the effort for Wollongong Hawks. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Kings moved-up to fifth place. Wollongong Hawks lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Kings' next round opponent will be Gold Coast Blaze (#6) in Broadbeach. Wollongong Hawks will play at home against Townsville Crocodiles in Wulguru and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hawks: T.Coenraad 18+2reb, G.Saville 14+6reb+3ast, J.Catron 13+5reb+1ast, S.Glover 10+1reb+4ast, R.Martin 9+4reb, T.Demos 8+1ast
Kings: A.Bose 23+7reb+1ast, J.Grant 14+14reb+2ast, B.Madgen 13+1reb+4ast, A.Bruce 12+3reb+1ast, J.Khazzouh 7+11reb+1ast, K.Ratzsch 7+5reb
gschID: 138884


Kings - 36ers 77-96

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Sydney where 7th ranked Kings (7-9) were crushed by eighth ranked Adelaide 36ers (5-9) 96-77. The game without a history. Adelaide 36ers led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a very good performance for center Daniel Johnson (212-88, college: Pepperdine) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds. International swingman Stephen Weigh (198-87) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Kazakhstan swingman Anatoly Bose (200-88, college: Nicholls St., agency: Priority Sports) answered with 12 points and 9 rebounds and the former international center Julian Khazzouh (209-86) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Kings. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players saving starting five for next games. Adelaide 36ers maintains eighth place with 5-9 record. Kings at the other side dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. Adelaide 36ers' next round opponent will be higher ranked Cairns Taipans (#4) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kings will play against Gold Coast Blaze in Broadbeach and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kings: L.Cooper 13+2reb+2ast, J.Khazzouh 12+9reb+1ast, A.Bose 12+9reb+3ast, J.Grant 10+6reb, K.Ratzsch 10+3reb+1ast, B.Madgen 9+8reb+2ast
36ers: D.Johnson 21+14reb+2ast, S.Weigh 17+5reb+2ast, N.Herbert 14+7reb, C.Warren 13+4reb+2ast, E.Bartlett 10+4ast, W.Helliwell 7+6reb+1ast
gschID: 138880




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  AUSTRIA   


Don't Fake the Funk! - by Anthony Shavies

Fans this is for you...Are you a fan? or are you 'faking the funk?'
During a recent Missouri State Bears game I became angered when some fans began to criticize the players. I'm a Bear, a former Bear but still a Bear. And those guys out there on that floor are like my little brothers, so of course I took the comments personal.
I believe fans feel that if they pay their money for games and such they can say whatever the want about the players. That is true, it's your right as an American to say whatever you feel.
Keep this in mind though when you criticize college athletes. They are not professionals, they are not paid and most of them are still teenagers. College athletes are playing for pride, because they love their sport. They're like an unsigned artist tirelessly working the underground circuit trying to make it big.
What I'm saying is no one wants to win more than them, that includes you watching from your recliner. I know this cause I've been there, which is something most fans cannot say. Next time you feel like criticizing an athlete ponder this question: what if that was your son/daughter/wife/husband out there and you heard some idiot giving them hell from the stands?
That's my rant on that, of course I could write a book on the topic but I won't. Some people get it, some don't and those who don't are prisoners of their own ignorance.
Let's come back to the east side of the Atlantic though. As promised last Monday's game against Gssing was a thriller. It came down to the last possession in which 'Atso' Djuric made a really tough shot. It was an intense chest match, both on the court and with the coaches on the sidelines. So our unfortunate streak continues.
The world of sports is sometimes unfair. There are times when you put in an immense amount of hard work and you still fall short. Then there are times when you just get lucky. But if you learn to appreciate the process (the hours in the gym shooting, the sprints you run in July) then you never lose. You'll always get something out of your hard work even if it's not a victory. The process is just as important as the result.
We play a very talented Vienna team this week. Vienna is led by one the best scorers I've ever played with and against, Stjepan Stazic. I have a huge amount of respect for him as a player. It's gonna be a tough game, but if this game were easy anybody could play.
Shout Out to my brother Shawn Ray, you know he up there watching and saying 'yessssssahh' lol. Shout out to my boy Paul Radakovics 'Paulie' 'Paul Wall' or 'Mr. ThatsWhatIDo'. Huge shout out to the Missouri State Bears for being 2-0 in conference right now. My boy Kyle 'Big Time' Weems (@kjw3434) just doing what I expected him to do, on his way to becoming two-time MVC player of the year, watch!
Joke Time:
During their silver anniversary, a wife reminded her husband: Do you remember when you proposed to me, I was so overwhelmed that I didn't talk for an hour?' The hubby replied: 'Yes, honey, that was the happiest hour of my life.'
BOOM!

Austrian A Bundesliga round 15 best performance: Samo Grum - by Eurobasket News
Slovenian swingman Samo Grum (193-G/F-79) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for UBSC Graz, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 32-year old player got a double-double of 36 points and 10 assists, while his team crushed BC Vienna (#7, 6-8) with 20-point margin 97-77. UBSC Graz maintains the 8th position in Austrian A Bundesliga. UBSC Graz is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 5-9 record. In the team's last game Grum had a remarkable 64.3% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 8 attempts. It's his second year at UBSC Graz and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Samo Grum averages this season 15.9ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old Bosnia and Herzegovina Mirza Ahmetbasic (193-G-87, agency: World Sport Agency) of BC Vienna. Ahmetbasic had a very good evening with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Bad luck as BC Vienna lost that game 77-97 to slightly lower-ranked UBSC Graz (#8, 5-9). BC Vienna is still in a red zone at 7th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-8 record. Ahmetbasic is a newcomer at BC Vienna, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Vernard Hollins (190-G-80) of Oberwart (#5). Hollins scored 29 points and passed four assists. Despite Hollins' great performance Oberwart lost 76-82 to the higher-ranked Gmunden (#1, 12-2). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Oberwart needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 8 victories and 6 lost games. Hollins has a very solid season. In 8 games in Austria he scored 16.4ppg. He also has 3.4apg and FGP: 59.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92) of Arkadia - 30 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Davor Lamesic (203-F-83) of Wels - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Fabricio Vay (206-F-86) of Arkadia - 27 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Joe Werner (201-C-84) of Wels - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Gary Ware (205-F/C-83) of Furstenfeld - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Thomas Klepeisz (188-G-91) of Gussing - 14 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists
10. Aleksandar Djuric (210-F/C-82) of Gussing - 21 points and 9 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)

MVP leaves Lions - by Stefan Heinrich
Traiskirchen Lions announced that the MVP of the 2010-2011 Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances) season left the Lions and accepted a very good offer from Argentia. Vay's new team will be Centro Juventud Sionista de Parana in the highest league of Argentina. It was Vay's dream to ever play for one of the top teams in Spain, Italy or Argentina and the management of Traiskirchen allowed him to accept this offer. Vay just came back to the Lions at the beginning of December and he played 5 games this season. During those games he averaged 20.0ppg, 8.6rpg, 5.0apg and 2.6spg and he helped the Lions to win 3 out of 5 games with him (before that they had a record of 1-9)

*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 21
 1. Bowles, Siauliai21.0 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas19.8 
 3. Krumins, Jelgava18.8 
 4. Kalve, Valmiera18.7 
 5. Barinov, Naglis P.18.0 
 6. Hallik, Tarvas17.2 
 7. Soo, Rapla17.0 
 8. Amis, Tartu Ulikool16.6 
 9. Reminas, Naglis P.16.5 
 10. Jefferson, Triumph16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.5 
 2. Ringmets, Rapla9.3 
 3. Nelson, Jelgava8.8 
 4. Johnson, Naglis P.8.8 
 5. Galdikas, Neptunas8.7 
 6. Mednis, Turiba8.6 
 7. McClure, Kedainiai8.3 
 8. Arnold, TT.8.3 
 9. Benn, Naglis Palan.7.8 
 10. Bowles, Siauliai7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Mindaugas STASYS
  Neptunas
  (180-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Stasys, Neptunas6.7 
 2. Broadus, Siauliai5.9 
 3. Maceina, Juventus5.7 
 4. Kriisa, Tarvas5.5 
 5. Rinkevicius, Nagli.5.0 
 6. Dorbek, Tarvas4.8 
 7. Janavicius, Baltai4.6 
 8. Kulagin, Triumph4.5 
 9. Dainys, Neptunas4.5 
 10. Tsiopych, Barsy A.4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dainius SALENGA
  Rudupis
  (197-F-77)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Salenga, Rudupis2.2 
 2. Virsis, Valmiera2.2 
 3. Hughes, Pieno Z.2.1 
 4. Landry, Triumph2.0 
 5. Benn, Naglis Palan.2.0 
 6. Kriisa, Tarvas2.0 
 7. Keedus, TT.2.0 
 8. Oja, Tarvas1.8 
 9. Matulionis, Techas.1.8 
 10. Evstigneev, Barsy1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Johnson, Naglis P.2.0 
 2. Rozitis, Valmiera1.9 
 3. Gumeniuk, Juventus1.9 
 4. Toome, Kalev/Cramo1.6 
 5. Staniulis, Techasas1.6 
 6. Masiulis, Kedainiai1.5 
 7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.2 
 8. Jefferson, Triumph1.1 
 9. Morgan, Pieno Z.1.0 
 10. Cipruss, Tarvas1.0 


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


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


Minsk-2006 is still unable to win in VTB League - by Eurobasket News
Minsk-2006 still unable to win in VTB League as they lost the 8th consecutive game. The team from Belarus was beaten by CSKA in the capital 52:96.
CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Minsk-2006 to just 6 points in fourth quarter. CSKA Moscow made 23-of-28 free shots during the game. They outrebounded Minsk-2006 46-27 including a 30-17 advantage in defensive rebounds.
Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86, agency: RIZO) notched 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and Alexey Shved supported him with 15 points. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. Even 18 points by American forward Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.) did not help to save the game for Minsk-2006. Aliaksei Lashkevich added 8 points and 5 rebounds for the hosts.
Defending Russian champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 3 other teams. Defending Belarusian champion Minsk-2006 still closes the standings with eight games lost.


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


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


Stats Leaders - Division I
Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Copeland, Aalstar18.9 
 2. Bostic, Liege17.5 
 3. Freeman, Leuven16.7 
 4. Mallet, Spirou16.3 
 5. Rich, Oostende15.7 
 6. Booker, Oostende14.4 
 7. Tofi, Leuven14.3 
 8. Green, Spirou13.6 
 9. Winston, Oostende13.5 
 10. Lojeski, Oostende13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Mejri, Antwerp7.8 
 2. Love, Verviers-Pep.7.4 
 3. Young, Aalstar6.9 
 4. McLean, Leuven6.7 
 5. Brown, Gent6.5 
 6. Booker, Oostende6.3 
 7. Chaney, Gent5.8 
 8. Tofi, Leuven5.5 
 9. Carter, M.Hainaut5.5 
 10. Jackson, Aalstar5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Waters, Liege3.9 
 2. Bosco, Gent3.9 
 3. Djordjevic, Ooste.3.9 
 4. Thompson, Verviers.3.8 
 5. Marnegrave, Leuven3.7 
 6. Singletary, M.Hain.3.0 
 7. Rich, Oostende2.9 
 8. Mallet, Spirou2.8 
 9. Hamilton, Spirou2.7 
 10. Black, Antwerp2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Devan DOWNEY
  Verviers.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Downey, Verviers.2.8 
 2. Wilson, Antwerp2.5 
 3. Singletary, M.Hain.2.5 
 4. Black, Antwerp2.4 
 5. Jenkins, Gent2.0 
 6. Steinbach, Aalstar2.0 
 7. Dagunduro, Leuven2.0 
 8. Haynes, Gent1.9 
 9. Mallet, Spirou1.9 
 10. Bosco, Gent1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Mejri, Antwerp2.8 
 2. Riddick, Spirou1.9 
 3. Jennings, Liege1.6 
 4. Young, Aalstar1.2 
 5. Booker, Oostende0.9 
 6. Love, Verviers-Pep.0.8 
 7. Gillet, Liege0.6 
 8. Holiday, Aalstar0.6 
 9. Heinle, Gent0.5 
 10. Wilson, Antwerp0.5 


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


Cedevita Zagreb prevails over KK Spars at Nike Junior Euroleague - by Miljan Veskovic
KK Cedevita beat KK Spars Sarajevo 69-67 after a thriller at Nike International Junior Tournament in L'Hospitalet, Spain. The game was close from the beginning and Bosnian team held the lead throughout most of the first half and reached the break with a 35-41 advantage. Stefan Glogovac (204-F/C-94) led Spars to a 41-50 gap midway in the third quarter but Hrkac scored seven points out of nine unanswered to force a tie score at the bottom of the third period. At the beginning of the fourth quarter Cedevita made another run, this time 7-0 and created a 10 point gap, 68-58 with four minutes to play. Spars didn't think this game was over, so Glogovac and Salic combined nine points in a row to make it just a one point game, still with 1:45 to play. Last moments saw both teams missing their shots but it's Hrkac who sealed the game with a free throw 11 seconds till the end. Buza had a chance to hit the winner for KK Spars Sarajevo but he missed a three point shot at the buzzer. Tomorrow KK Spars Sarajevo will take on two Spanish teams, the reigning champion FC Barcelona Regal and Cajasol.

Top performers for KK Spars Sarajevo: Stefan Glogovac 16, Nedim Buza (201-F-95) 15, Djoko Salic (208-C-95) 13 and Aleksej Nikolic (185-PG-95) 13.

Aco Petrovic is interested in Bosnian National Team job - by Chris Mathieu
Aco Petrovic is interested in Bosnian National Team job. Aco Petrovic has admitted to having interest as well as contacts with KSBiH officials about becoming the next coach of the team. Bosnia is trying to building on the promise shown this summer in Eurobasket by getting a quality international coach. Bosnia has a great shot to do well in the European Championships with the addition of Nedzad Sinanovic and the quality play of Henry Domercant, Mirza Teletovic as well as some other regulars on the team.
Bosnia has seen what amazing results Macedonia was able to achieve with Bo McCaleb and quality coaching and a good team effort.
A couple key additions along with the signing of Sinanovic, would be getting Kuzmic to join the club and they need to look at a couple of quality imports like a Jaycee Carroll type to possibly replace Domercant and to reinforce the point guard position. If done the team could compete for a top 4-6 position at the European Championships.


Nihad Djedovic returns to Spain - by Eurobasket News
Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) will spend rest of the season with Murcia. The Spanish squad agreed a loan with the player, his current team Acea Virtus Roma and also Regal Barca, who owns right on Djedovic. Despite the Roma team supposed to release Djedovic few days before, they kept him for the last night's game against Emporio Armani Milano. The player spent 26 minutes on the court scoring 15 points. Nihad Dkedovic appeared 14 times for Roma this season averaging posted 10.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game in Serie A. Last season the forward also played for Lottomatica Roma. His stats read 11.3 points, 3.4 boards, 2.3 steals and 1.1 assist per game in Seria A. In Euroleague Nihad Dedovic accounted for 9.3 points, 3.1 boards, 2.1 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance. Nihad Dedovic participated at EuroBasket 2011. He notched 10.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game in Lithuania. Djedovic is active member of the Bosnian NT since 2007.

National Team PG Sasa Vasiljevic signs in Greece - by Eurobasket News
Sasa Vasiljevic (183-PG-79, agency: Beo Basket) is back to Greece. The Bosnian National Team point guard signed a deal with Ikaros Athens for rest of the season. He started it with Ukrainian Khimik-OPZ Yuzny. Vasiljevic appeared 15 times for them in Superleague averaging 5.1 points and 3.4 assists. He had almost the same numbers for 5 EuroChallenge games. Sasa Vasiljevic spent last season in Ukraine as well. He helped Donetsk to reach the Playoff Finals. In the past, he spent two years with Greek VAP Kolossos and one with AEK Athens. Sasa Vasiljevic is active member of the Bosnian National Team. He had 6.4 ppg, 5.4 pg and 1.8 rpg for 5 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.

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


Blog #2 from Basden - by Edward Basden
Christmas break is here and I would like to start off by wishing you all Happy Holidays. Whatever it is you and your family may celebrate, I wish you happiness. Also during the holidays I know everyone has been checking out the moves in the NBA. Well I'm really excited to see how things pan out, the kick off on Christmas was good. Quick shout out to my boy Jeff Green and his family my prayers are with you bro and I hope you get betterreal soon. Keep your head up. Well last time I blogged we were 1-6, WOW that's a first, but since then and at the break we've improved and are now 3-7 with big wins going into the break. At the moment my avg is 12.5pts and 5 Rebs. My other 2 teammates are playing well, unfortunately the team parted ways with my teammate Jermaine Johnson due to a Brazilian player getting hurt and now we need a legit 5 man. Johnson is very good, solid inside and outside 3/4 man, so any teams in need of a scoring machine down low check him out. Other than that the experience is getting better now that I've been here awhile and I have been able to get out a little, here are some facts about the city I live in.....Franca, Brazil is the #1 capital for making shoes and if anyone ever told you espanol and Portuguese was similar and that you'd be able to get by knowing some spanish.....awww man they lied, lol. As my time moves forward I'm appreciating and welcoming this opportunity with open arms and as I continue to blog you guys will see the improvement and hear more about the ups, downs, good and bad that may go on and I may go through. But know this, no matter how things may look now or may be, they can always change, so be faithful and positive because everyone's experiences and situations vary. Wish all my friends and basketball friends the best keep getting better, PEACE!!

Babby Araujo waived and Franca sign two new players - by Paulo Freire
The big man Babby Araujo (211-C-80, college: BYU) has been waived by Vivo/Franca Basquete Sao Paulo basketball team by the end of december. That is the third time in a roll that Babby Araujo has personal problems with the team his playing. Flamengo and Paulistano was the last teams he had to broke his contract because of personal problems.

For his replacement Vivo/Franca Basquete Sao Paulo have add two new players, from Serbia and Montenegro is coming Vuk Ivanovic (208-F/C-83, agency: Interperformances, college: BYU) a former BYU player.
The another addition for the center position is Atilio de Mello (203-C-82) the 29 years old is already training with the Club and can make his debut this Thursday, Jan, 5, against Flamengo, in Rio. The Vivo/Franca Basquete Sao Paulo directors already forwarded to the National League the athlete's documentation and awaiting release. Atilio played in the last seasons for the Rio Claro team. After the Paulista State, the athlete had been training on his own.

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


Bulgarian NBL round 12 best performance: Hrisimir Dimitrov - by Eurobasket News
Former international swingman Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Levski Sofia, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 37-year old player was the main contributor (29 points, eight rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Chernomorets (#7, 2-10) with 28-point margin 91-63. Levski Sofia maintains the 2nd position in Bulgarian NBL. They are still close to the very top. Levski Sofia would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 10-2 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Dimitrov as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Hrisimir Dimitrov averages this season 11.0ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was another Levski Sofia's star - 33-year old international Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78). Georgiev had a very good evening with a double-double of 11 points and 17 rebounds. Of course together with Dimitrov he helped Levski Sofia with another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Chernomorets (#7, 2-10) 91-63. Levski Sofia's second position in the standings has not changed. His team lost just two games this season, while they won 10 matches. Georgiev is one of the most experienced players at Levski Sofia and similarly like Hrisimir Dimitrov has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center John Ofoegbu (206-C-84) of Tundja Yambol (#5). Ofoegbu scored 24 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Ofoegbu's great performance Tundja Yambol lost 77-94 to the league's current leader Lukoil Academik (#1, 11-0). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Tundja Yambol needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 6 victories and 6 lost games. Ofoegbu has a great season in Bulgaria. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.3ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 8.9rpg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kiril Pavlovski (210-C-85) of Chernomorets - 18 points and 16 rebounds
5. Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski Sofia - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Aleksandr Yanev (203-F/C-90) of Cherno More - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82) of Rilski Sportist - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Simeon Tsenov (196-F-82) of Spartak Pleven - 16 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Ilia Stankov (198-F-76) of Spartak Pleven - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Hristo Zahariev (200-G/F-90) of Rilski Sportist - 16 points, 6 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)

Standings A1
NBL Standings
 1. Lukoil Academik 12-0 
 2. Levski Sofia 10-2 
 3. Rilski Sportist 7-5 
 4. Tundja Yambol 6-6 
 5. Cherno More 6-6 
 6. Balkan 3-9 
 7. Chernomorets 2-10 
 8. Spartak Pleven 2-10 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Martin DURCHEV
  Tundja Y.
  (200-G-87)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. Durchev, Tundja Y.20.2 
 2. Harper, Levski S.19.1 
 3. Vukosavljevi., Ril.16.8 
 4. Stankov, Spartak16.7 
 5. Yanev, Cherno More16.7 
 6. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.15.3 
 7. Hall, Levski Sofia14.5 
 8. Pavlovski, Chernom.14.5 
 9. Mirkovic, Rilski S.14.4 
 10. Dunovic, Chernomo.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vasil EVTIMOV
  Levski Sofia
  (207-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Evtimov, Levski So.11.1 
 2. Pavlovski, Chernom.10.0 
 3. Yanev, Cherno More9.5 
 4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.8.9 
 5. Petkov, Tundja Y.7.3 
 6. Vukosavljevi., Ril.6.7 
 7. Slaveykov, Sparta.6.1 
 8. Tsenov, Spartak6.0 
 9. Todorov, Spartak5.9 
 10. Zahariev, Rilski5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Julian RADIONOV
  Tundja Y.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 6
 1. Radionov, Tundja Y.6.0 
 2. Heath, Lukoil A.5.3 
 3. Dyakovski, Sparta.5.1 
 4. Mirkovic, Rilski S.5.1 
 5. Filipov, Balkan4.2 
 6. Jefferson, Tundja4.0 
 7. Aleksiev, Cherno M.4.0 
 8. Zhelev, Cherno M.3.5 
 9. Avramov, Lukoil A.3.3 
 10. Govedarov, Tundja3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Dimitar ROSHMANOV
  Chernomo.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Roshmanov, Cherno.2.7 
 2. Harper, Levski S.2.4 
 3. Heath, Lukoil A.2.4 
 4. Radionov, Tundja Y.2.4 
 5. Jefferson, Tundja2.0 
 6. Durchev, Tundja Y.2.0 
 7. Dunovic, Chernomo.1.9 
 8. Marinov, Balkan1.9 
 9. Mirkovic, Rilski S.1.9 
 10. Dimitrov, Levski1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Josh CRAWFORD
  Balkan
  (211-C-88)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Crawford, Balkan1.4 
 2. Pavlovski, Chernom.1.1 
 3. Banev, Lukoil A.1.1 
 4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.0.9 
 5. Petkov, Tundja Y.0.8 
 6. Mijajlovic, Rilski0.8 
 7. Martin, Balkan0.7 
 8. Gocevski, Tundja Y.0.7 
 9. Sundov, Lukoil A.0.6 
 10. Aleksov, Chernomo.0.5 


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


Miracles win over the Mill Rats - by Eurobasket News
The Moncton Miracles beat the Saint John Mill Rats at the Moncton Coliseum with a final score of 102-87.

The first quarter ended with the Miracles down 23-19 but the battled back in the second half to take a 50-40 lead.

The Miracles continued to fight hard throughout the rest of the game and were able to build on their lead.

Trayvon Lathan (6'7''-G-84, college: Chowan) was the top scorer for the Miracles with 32 points and 13 rebounds. Antoine Tisby (6'9''-F-83, college: S.Carolina) led the way for the Mill Rats with 21 points and 8 rebounds.

The Miracles play their next game at home against the Summerside Storm on Thursday, January 5th, 2012. Game time is 7:00pm at the Moncton Coliseum.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


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


CBA Round 20: Leader Beijing Ducks lose to Guandong Tigers - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Beijing Ducks (14-5) at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by Guandong Tigers (15-4) 112-99. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 14-4 record before this meeting. Beijing Ducks were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Guandong Tigers dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Beijing Ducks' 46 and made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Beijing Ducks 42-28 including 29 on the defensive glass. 28 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) who scored 32 points and 8 assists (was perfect 13-for-13 from the free throw line !!!). Forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in 29 points and 12 rebounds (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). Guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) produced 35 points (!!!) and 9 assists for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guandong Tigers keep a position of league leader. Beijing Ducks at the other side dropped to the second place with five games lost. They share the position with Guangsha L.. Guandong Tigers are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#15) in Tianjin in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Beijing Ducks will play at home against DongGuan Leopards (#5) and are hoping to win this game.
Thirteenth-ranked Shandong Bulls (7-12) made lots of trouble for third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-5) in Hangzhou. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions managed to secure only one-point victory 98-97. However their fans expected much easier game. American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. Peter John Ramos contributed with 24 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) replied with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for Shandong Bulls. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to second place, which they share with Beijing Ducks. Shandong Bulls at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Jilin NE T.. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play against Foshan (#16) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Shandong Bulls will play against Jilin Tigers (#12) in Changchun and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Hangzhou, where higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (11-7) were outleveled at home by ninth ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (10-9) 102-78 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Zhejiang Cyclones. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of Will McDonald who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 4 assists. J.R. Smith responded with 35 points (!!!) and 8 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. Fujian SBS XunXin maintains ninth position with 10-9 record. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones keep the fourth place with seven games lost. Fujian SBS XunXin will meet bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Cyclones will play against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#8) in Urumqi and hope to secure a win.
The game with biggest result difference took place in DongGuan. Local DongGuan Leopards (11-8) outscored 17th ranked Jiangsu Dragons (4-15) 108-84. The winners were led by Josh-Emmanuel Akognon who scored that evening 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. DongGuan Leopards' coach Brian Goorjian felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. DongGuan Leopards maintains fifth position with 11-8 record, which they share with Liaoning H. and Shanghai S. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. DongGuan Leopards' next round opponent will be higher ranked Beijing Ducks (#3) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#9) in Jinjiang.

Rest of the games of round 20 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Liaoning H. crushed TianJin R. in Yingkou 103-82. Shanghai S. beat Foshan at home 95-88. Xinjiang F.T. destroyed Bayi Fubang on the opponent's court 102-83. Qingdao DS outscored Jilin NE T. in a home game 116-95.
The best stats of 20th round was 38 points (!!!) and 19 rebounds by Gani Lawal of Xinjiang F.T..


Beijing Ducks - Guandong ST 99-112

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Beijing Ducks (14-5) at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by Guandong Tigers (15-4) 112-99. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 14-4 record before this meeting. Beijing Ducks were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Guandong Tigers dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Beijing Ducks' 46 and made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Beijing Ducks 42-28 including 29 on the defensive glass. 28 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) who scored 32 points and 8 assists (was perfect 13-for-13 from the free throw line !!!). Forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 29 points and 12 rebounds (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). Guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) produced 35 points (!!!) and 9 assists and power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) added 16 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks respectively for the hosts. Five Guandong Tigers and four Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guandong Tigers keep a position of league leader. Beijing Ducks at the other side dropped to the second place with five games lost. They share the position with Guangsha L.. Guandong Tigers are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#15) in Tianjin in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Beijing Ducks will play at home against DongGuan Leopards (#5) and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Guandong ST: B.Aaron 32+4reb+8ast, S.James 29+12reb+1ast, W.ShiPeng 13+2reb+4ast, S.Wei 10+6reb+1ast, Z.Peng 10+5reb, H.Dong 4+4reb
Beijing Ducks: M.Stephon 35+3reb+9ast, Z.YanXi 17+5reb, M.Randolph 16+10reb, J.Zhe 11+2reb+2ast, C.Lei 9+1reb, C.Shidong 4+2reb+2ast
gschID: 158191


TianJin R. - Liaoning H. 82-103

There was no surprise in Tianjin where 15th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (6-13) was crushed by sixth ranked Liaoning Hunters (11-8) 103-82. The game was mostly controlled by Liaoning Hunters. TianJin Rongcheng was better in third quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Liaoning Hunters shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 53.6 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by TianJin Rongcheng's players. The winners were led by guard Ming Yang (193-85) who scored that evening 9 points and 14 assists and the former international center Xiaoxu Li (207-90) supported him with 8 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds by American center David Harrison (213-82, college: Colorado) did not help to save the game for TianJin Rongcheng. His fellow American import power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) added 19 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Shanghai S. and DongGuan L. TianJin Rongcheng at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 13 games lost. Liaoning Hunters' next round opponent will be Qingdao Double Star (#11) on the road where they are favorite. TianJin Rongcheng will play against the league's leader Guandong Tigers (#1) in Dongguan.
Top scorers:
Liaoning H.: C.Rodney 21+3reb+1ast, P.Josh 19+6reb, Z.QinPeng 14+1reb+5ast, H.Dejun 12+8reb, Y.Ming 9+4reb+14ast, L.Xiaoxu 8+14reb+4ast
TianJin R.: H.David 24+10reb, H.Donnell 19+12reb+2ast, Z.Nan 14+2reb+2ast, S.Chun 7+2ast, X.Lei 7+3reb, X.GuiJun 3
gschID: 158192


Shanghai S. - Foshan 95-88

No shocking result in a game when seventh ranked Shanghai Sharks (11-8) defeated at home 16th ranked Foshan (5-13) 95-88. It looked good early as Foshan took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Shanghai Sharks had a 30-12 second period charge getting the lead and Foshan was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 88-95. The winners were led by American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 25 points and 14 rebounds and international point guard Wei Liu (190-80) supported him with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Shanghai Sharks' coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even a double-double of 29 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks by American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) did not help to save the game for Foshan. Syrian guard Michel Maadanly (195-81) added 21 points and 10 rebounds for the guests. Five Shanghai Sharks and four Foshan players scored in double figures. Shanghai Sharks have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Liaoning H. and DongGuan L. Foshan lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 13 games lost. Shanghai Sharks will have a break next round. Foshan will play at home against the league's second-placed Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#2) in Hangzhou.
Top scorers:
Shanghai S.: H.Mike 25+14reb, F.Tian 15+1reb, W.Yong-Liang 14+3reb+1ast, L.Wei 13+6reb+8ast, M.Lingyuan 12+4reb+2ast, J.Xiang 5+3reb+1ast
Foshan: D.Marcus 29+13reb+2ast, M.Michel 21+10reb+2ast, H.Marcus 10+7reb, Z.Zhun 10+4reb+1ast, L.Zhi 8+4reb+1ast, H.Ben 5+6reb+3ast
gschID: 158188


DongGuan L. - Jiangsu D. 108-84

The game with biggest result difference took place in DongGuan. Local DongGuan Leopards (11-8) outscored 17th ranked Jiangsu Dragons (4-15) 108-84. It looked good early as Jiangsu Dragons took an 9-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then DongGuan Leopards took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 24 points. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Jiangsu Dragons' 38 and made 22-of-26 charity shots (84.6 percent) during the game. The winners were led by Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) who scored that evening 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists and American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) supported him with 29 points and 14 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). DongGuan Leopards' coach Brian Goorjian felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Even 30 points and 7 rebounds by the former international swingman Da Meng (196-82) did not help to save the game for Jiangsu Dragons. The former international forward Yahui Liu (206-88) added 23 points and 8 rebounds for the guests. DongGuan Leopards maintains fifth position with 11-8 record, which they share with Liaoning H. and Shanghai S. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. DongGuan Leopards' next round opponent will be higher ranked Beijing Ducks (#3) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#9) in Jinjiang.
Top scorers:
DongGuan L.: R.Shavlik 29+14reb, A.Josh-Emmanuel 29+8reb+6ast, Z.Kai 21+6reb+3ast, Q.Biao 9+1ast, H.Chih-Shan 6+2reb+2ast, S.TongLin 6+6reb+3ast
Jiangsu D.: M.Da 30+7reb, L.Yahui 23+8reb+1ast, W.Marcus 9+5reb+2ast, V.Jackson 9+9reb+5ast, W.Junjie 5+5reb, H.XueFeng 3+1reb+2ast
gschID: 158189


Guangsha L. - Shandong FB 98-97

Thirteenth-ranked Shandong Bulls (7-12) made lots of trouble for third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-5) in Hangzhou. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions managed to secure only one-point victory 98-97. However their fans expected much easier game. Shandong Bulls cut a 15-point halftime deficit to one at the end of the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) contributed with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) replied with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals and Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St., agency: David Lee services) added 14 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Shandong Bulls. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to second place, which they share with Beijing Ducks. Shandong Bulls at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Jilin NE T.. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play against Foshan (#16) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Shandong Bulls will play against Jilin Tigers (#12) in Changchun and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangsha L.: C.Wilson 25+11reb+3ast, R.Peter John 24+11reb+1ast, J.Lipeng 16+5reb+4ast, W.Bo 12+5reb+2ast, Z.Wei 6+3reb+1ast, W.Fei 6+1reb+2ast
Shandong FB: A.Alan 29+6reb+5ast, H.Othello 14+7reb, W.Ke 10+5reb+1ast, L.JiuLong 9+1reb+1ast, L.Li 8+5reb+1ast, X.JiaHan 7+2reb
gschID: 158190


Zhejiang C. - Fujian XX 78-102

We should mention about the upset which took place in Hangzhou, where higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (11-7) were outleveled at home by ninth ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (10-9) 102-78 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Zhejiang Cyclones. The game without a history. Fujian SBS XunXin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Anthony Roberson (188-83, college: Florida) who added 24 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Guard J.R. Smith (198-85) responded with 35 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) scored 13 points and 7 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. Fujian SBS XunXin maintains ninth position with 10-9 record. Loser Zhejiang Cyclones keep the fourth place with seven games lost. Fujian SBS XunXin will meet bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Cyclones will play against Xinjiang Flying Tige (#8) in Urumqi and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Fujian XX: M.Will 37+12reb+4ast, R.Anthony 24+7reb+3ast, Z.TaiLong 13+2reb+1ast, A.Zaid 9+13reb+3ast, L.Hang 8+4reb, Y.GengLin 4
Zhejiang C.: S.J.R. 35+8reb, B.Josh 13+7reb, T.Hai 8+6reb, W.DaYong 5, Z.Dayu 4+6reb, J.Peng 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 158185


Bayi Fubang - Xinjiang F.T. 83-102

Very expected game in Ningbo where 14th ranked Bayi Fubang (6-12) was rolled over by eighth ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (10-7) 102-83. The game without a history. Xinjiang Flying Tige led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Xinjiang Flying Tige outrebounded Bayi Fubang 55-30 including a 40-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Bayi Fubang helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The winners were led by Nigerian forward Gani Lawal (206-88, college: Georgia Tech) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 19 rebounds and international guard Tal Co (191-91) supported him with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Five Xinjiang Flying Tige players scored in double figures. Even 24 points, 5 assists and 4 steals by the former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-77) did not help to save the game for Bayi Fubang. The former international forward Lehei De (208-87) added 17 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. Bayi Fubang's coach Chang Bin Adijan rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Xinjiang Flying Tige maintains eighth position with 10-7 record. Bayi Fubang lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth place with 12 games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige's next round opponent will be higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (#4) in Hangzhou and it may be quite challenging game. Bayi Fubang will play at home against Shanxi Zhongyu (#10) in Taiyuan.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: L.Gani 38+19reb, C.Tal 20+8reb+2ast, X.GuoChong 16+4reb+1ast, M.Bateer 11+8reb+2ast, P.Duo 10+3reb+1ast, S.WeiBo 4+7reb+1ast
Bayi Fubang: W.ZhiZhi 24+4reb+5ast, D.Lehei 17+9reb+2ast, Z.Bo 8+1ast, Y.Cao 8+1reb, H.Shuo 7+3reb+1ast, Z.Chengyu 7+1reb+2ast
gschID: 158186


Qingdao DS - Jilin NE T. 116-95

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both twelfth ranked Qingdao Double Star and 11th ranked Jilin Tigers had identical 7-11 record. This time Qingdao Double Star used a home court advantage and outscored the opponent from Changchun 116-95. The game was mostly controlled by Qingdao Double Star. Jilin Tigers was better in second period 28-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Qingdao Double Star made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Qingdao Double Star outrebounded Jilin Tigers 43-25 including a 27-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. The winners were led by American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 30 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists and forward Gen Li (196-88) supported him with 26 points and 4 assists. Even 27 points and 4 steals by American swingman Cartier Martin (201-84, college: Kansas St.) did not help to save the game for Jilin Tigers. Forward Biao Zhang (201-90) added 22 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Five Qingdao Double Star and four Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Qingdao Double Star (8-11) moved-up to eleventh place. Jilin Tigers lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the twelfth position with 12 games lost. Qingdao Double Star's next round opponent will be higher ranked Liaoning Hunters (#6) in Yingkou and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Jilin Tigers will play at home against Shandong Bulls (#13) in Jinan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: H.Lester 30+10reb+9ast, L.Gen 26+3reb+4ast, S.Sani 16+8reb+1ast, O.Olumide 14+9reb+1ast, X.YuYang 12+2reb+1ast, L.Yan 11+5reb+2ast
Jilin NE T.: M.Cartier 27+3reb+2ast, Z.Biao 22+5reb, W.Jameel 11+5reb, D.Osama 11+5reb+9ast, L.Wei 8+1ast, Z.Cheng 6+2reb
gschID: 158187




Xinjiang release Patrick Mills - by Eurobasket News
Xinjiang Flying Tigers parted ways with Mills Patrick (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA). The Aussie guard joined Xinjiang in November. He tallied 26.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game in CBA. Last season Mills Patrick spent in the NBA. He played for the Portland Trail Blazers. His stats read 5.4 points and 1.7 assists per appearance. Mills Patrick is the member of the Australian National Team. The guard participated at 2010 World Championship. Mills Patrick posted 13.8 points, 4.2 assists and 1.7 rebounds per game in Turkey.
The guard is mulling over the possibility of returning to the Trail Blazers at the moment.


Guangdong Defeats Beijing to Claim First Place - by Arthur Volbert
Aaron Brooks scored 32 points and Singleton James (203-F-81, college: Murray St.) had 29 points and 12 rebounds as Guangdong defeated Beijing 112-99. Guangdong moved into first place in the CBA with a 15-4 record while Beijing fell to 14-5. Wang Shipeng had 13 points and 4 assists. Su Wei had 10 points and 6 rebounds while Zhou Peng had 10 points and 5 rebounds. Zhu Fangyu scored only 4 points, missing all 8 of his three-point attempts, but Guangdong's imports outperformed Beijing's imports leading to Guangdong's victory. Stephon Marbury had 35 points and 9 assists for Beijing. But Randolph Morris had only 16 points on 4 of 14 shooting along with 10 rebounds and 5 blocks. Zhu Yanxi had 17 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks and is making a strong case for being added to the National Team. Ji Zhe scored 11 and Chen Lei had 9.

Zhejiang Guangsha moved into a second-place tie with Beijing, edging Shandong 98-97. Wilson Chandler had 25 points and 11 rebounds. Peter John Ramos had 24 points and 11 rebounds. Jin Lipeng had 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Wang Bo had 12 points and 5 rebounds. Allan Anderson had 29 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for Shandong. Othello Hunter had 14 points and 7 rebounds. Wu Ke had 10 points and 5 rebounds. Liu Jiulong scored 9 and Li Lin had 8 points and 5 rebounds.

Fujian upset Zhejiang 102-78 as Zhejiang fell to 11-7 while Fujian rose to 10=9. Will McDonald had 37 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. He dominated Zhejiang's Josh Boone. Anthony Roberson had 29 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Zhao Tailong scored 13. Zaid Abbas had 9 points and 13 rebounds. Li Hang had 8 points and 4 rebounds. J. R. Smith had 35 points and 8 rebounds for Zhejiang. But Boone had only 13 points and 7 rebounds. National Team power forward Ding Jinhui did not play. Tang Hai had 8 points and 6 rebounds. No one else scored more than 5.

Shanghai, Laioning and Dongguan all moved to 11-8 with victories. Shanghai defeated Foshan 95-88. Michael Harris had 25 points and 12 rebounds. Ryan Forehan-Kelly did not play. Feng Tian scored 15 and Wang Yong had 14. Liu Wei had 13 points, 6 reobunds and 8 assists. Meng Lingyuan had 12 points and 4 rebounds. Marcus Douthit had 29 points and 13 rebounds for Foshan. Michel Maadanly had 21 points and 10 rebounds. Marcus Haislip had 10 points and 7 rebounds. Zheng Zhun had 10 points and 4 rebounds. Luo Zhi had 8 points and 4 rebounds.

Rodney Carney scored 21 and Josh Powell had 19 points and 6 rebounds as Liaoning topped Tianjin 103-82. Zhang Qingpeng had 14 points and 5 assists. Han Dejun had 12 points and 8 rebounds. Yang Ming had 9 points, 4 rebounds and 14 assists and is making a strong argument to be added to the National Team at point guard. Li Xiaoxu had 8 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists and is also a National Team candidate. He Tianju had 7 points and 4 rebounds. David Harrison had 24 points and 10 rebounds for Tianjin. Donnell Harvey had 19 points and 12 rebounds. Zhang Nan scored 14. Xu Lei had 7 points and 3 rebounds. Shen Tujun also scored 7. Rony Fahed did not play.

Shavlik Randolph had 29 points and 14 rebounds while Josh Akognon had 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists as Dongguan blasted Jiangsu 108-84. Zhang Kai returned from injury wit 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Qiu Biao scored 9. Sun Tonglin had 6 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Meng Da had 30 points and 7 rebounds for Jiangsu, which fell to 4-15 in last place. Liu Yahui had 23 points and 8 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 9 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Marcus Williams had 9 points and 5 rebounds and shot 2 of 13. Wang Junjie had 5 points and 5 rebounds. National Teamer Yi Li had 2 points on 1 of 6 shooting.

Gani Lawal had 38 points and 19 rebounds as Xinjiang defeated Bayi 102-83. National teamer Xirelijiang had 20 points and 8 rebounds. Xu Guozhong had 16 points and 4 rebounds. Mengke Bateer had 11 points and 8 rebounds. Meng Duo scored 10. With Patrick Mills gone, Xinjiang prevailed with one import to gain a 10-7 record. Once-proud Bayi dropped to 6-12. Wang Zhizhi had 24 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Delehei had 17 points and 9 rebounds. Zhang Bo and Cao Yan each scored 8. Han Shuo and Zhang Chengyu each had 7. Wang Lei had 2 points on 1 of 10 shooting.

Qingdao defeated Jilin 116-90. Lester Hudson had 30 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Li Gen had 26 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists and is a candidate for the National Team. Sani Sakakini had 16 points and 8 rebounds. Olumide Oyedeji had 14 points and 9 rebounds. Xue Yuyang scored 12 and Lu Yan had 11. Cartier Martin scored 27 for Jilin. Zhang Biao had 22 points and 5 rebounds. 206 cm import Jameel Watkins had 11 points but no rebounds. Lu Wei scored 8.


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


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 J.R. SMITH
  Zhejiang C.
  (198-G-85)
  Avg: 33.6
 1. Smith, Zhejiang C.33.6 
 2. Hudson, Qingdao DS33.1 
 3. Williams, Shanxi Z.29.7 
 4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.28.4 
 5. Chandler, Guangsha.28.3 
 6. McDonald, Fujian X.28.2 
 7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.26.9 
 8. Mills, Xinjiang.26.5 
 9. Akognon, DongGuan.25.8 
 10. Martin, Jilin N.25.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zaid ABBAS
  Fujian XX
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Abbas, Fujian XX15.2 
 2. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS13.8 
 3. Ramos, Guangsha L.13.7 
 4. Harvey, TianJin R.13.6 
 5. Gadzuric, Jiang.13.1 
 6. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.12.9 
 7. Hunter, Shandong12.8 
 8. Boone, Zhejiang C.12.3 
 9. Randolph, DongGua.12.2 
 10. Harris, Shanghai12.1 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Daghles, Jilin N.7.8 
 2. Hudson, Qingdao DS6.3 
 3. Marbury, Beijing6.2 
 4. Yang, Liaoning H.5.4 
 5. Brooks, Guandong5.1 
 6. Lu, Shanxi Zh.5.1 
 7. Mengke, Xinjiang.5.0 
 8. Anderson, Shandon.4.7 
 9. Zhang, Liaoning H.4.6 
 10. Williams, Shanxi4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Hudson, Qingdao DS3.3 
 2. Lee, Beijing Ducks2.9 
 3. Smith, Zhejiang C.2.8 
 4. Hu, Jiangsu D.2.7 
 5. Vroman, Jiangsu D.2.7 
 6. Daghles, Jilin N.2.6 
 7. Anderson, Shandon.2.4 
 8. Marbury, Beijing2.4 
 9. Mills, Xinjiang.2.3 
 10. Lu, Shanxi Zh.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Dan GADZURIC
  Jiang.
  (211-C-78)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gadzuric, Jiang.2.0 
 2. Randolph, DongGua.1.8 
 3. Zhang, Shanghai S.1.8 
 4. Xu, Bayi Fubang1.7 
 5. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.7 
 6. Douthit, Foshan1.7 
 7. Carney, Liaoning H.1.6 
 8. Vroman, Jiangsu D.1.6 
 9. Morris, Beijing Du.1.5 
 10. Abbas, Fujian XX1.4 


China - the new land of opportunity - by Eurobasket
China has become the new land of opportunity, with businesses, and individuals flocking to the far east for financial opportunity and gain. The same lies with the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and each singular team that comprises the league. Certain teams are being 'advised' by certain management agencies and individuals, as to how to construct their teams for each upcoming season, accepting some sort of 'finders' or 'advisors' fee, and it certainly has not worked out for the teams at all. CBA is unlike any league in the world, as the one must understand China as a whole and country, as well as the CBA inner workings, so to speak for any success to really translate on to the court.

Clearly its not always the teams that spend outrageous amounts of money, that win CBA Championships at least. Perennial CBA Champion, Guangdong, had the crafty big man Jason Dixon (205-C-73, college: Liberty) for close to 10 years and for the past few seasons, they have spent the least amount of money, with the exception of this year, in which they sought out NBA guard, Brooks Aaron (183-PG-85, college: Oregon) and NBA Big man Singleton James (203-F-81, college: Murray St.).

Shanghai is a clear example of a team, whom operates mostly on their own, meaning no assistance from others, have always been one of the teams that spend the least on import players, yet they are one of the hottest teams in the league and contending for a playoff spot with a 1st year coach in Dan Pannagio.

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Standings - Division A
Division A Standings
 1. Keravnos 11-0 
 2. Apollon 9-2 
 3. Etha 8-3 
 4. APOEL 6-4 
 5. AEK 5-5 
 6. Omonia 4-7 
 7. ENAD 3-8 
 8. AEL 1-9 


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


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


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Keaton GRANT
  Levice
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 21
 1. Grant, Levice21.0 
 2. Sedmak, USK Praha19.0 
 3. Henderson, Levice18.5 
 4. Wright, Chomutov17.9 
 5. Lowery, Chomutov17.9 
 6. McFadden, Usti n.17.3 
 7. Hruban, USK Praha16.7 
 8. Longmire, Usti n.15.9 
 9. Wilson, CEZ N.15.7 
 10. Houska, BK Decin15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Votroubek, USK P.9.2 
 2. Meno, Svitavy8.4 
 3. Arnold, BK Pardu.8.3 
 4. Naymick, CEZ N.8.2 
 5. Gadri-N., BK Prost.8.2 
 6. Peterson, BK Prost.7.3 
 7. Houska, BK Decin7.0 
 8. Hughes, NH Ostrava6.6 
 9. Field, BC Kolin6.3 
 10. Barnes, BC Kolin6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Michal SOTNAR
  USK Praha
  (189-PG-92)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Sotnar, USK Praha4.9 
 2. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 3. Barnes, BC Kolin4.5 
 4. Vrubl, Plzen4.1 
 5. George, Svitavy3.9 
 6. Lawrence, CEZ N.3.8 
 7. Boyer, BK Decin3.6 
 8. McFadden, Usti n.3.5 
 9. Ames, BC Kolin3.4 
 10. Moravec, Svitavy3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Thaddeus MCFADDEN
  Usti n.
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. McFadden, Usti n.2.5 
 2. Pumprla, CEZ N.2.4 
 3. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 4. Klecka, B&W Opava2.3 
 5. Sirina, B&W Opava2.2 
 6. Ames, BC Kolin1.9 
 7. Grant, Levice1.9 
 8. Inge, NH Ostrava1.8 
 9. Lowery, Chomutov1.7 
 10. Simmons, CEZ N.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  NH Ostrava
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Hughes, NH Ostrava1.6 
 2. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.5 
 3. Naymick, CEZ N.1.3 
 4. Grant, Levice1.1 
 5. Meno, Svitavy1.1 
 6. Miklosik, B&W O.1.0 
 7. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 8. Votroubek, USK P.0.8 
 9. Houska, BK Decin0.8 
 10. Henderson, Levice0.8 


NBL Round 21: Bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava wins against NH Ostrava - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

Bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Wednesday night. This time they won against seventh-ranked NH Ostrava 78-69. NH Ostrava trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Inter Bratislava made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game, while NH Ostrava only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by NH Ostrava helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for Puerto Rican-American guard Emanuel Ubilla (188-86, college: Fair Dickinson) who led his team to a victory with 24 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Irish-Serbian power forward Mihajlo Pesic (206-81, agency: Court Side) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Derek Wright (175-86, college: Austin Peay St.) answered with 13 points and 7 rebounds for NH Ostrava. NH Ostrava's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Inter Bratislava (4-17) moved-up to thirteenth place. NH Ostrava at the other side keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Inter Bratislava are looking forward to face league's leader CEZ Nymburk on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. NH Ostrava will play against the league's second-placed BK Prostejov (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
NBL top team - CEZ Nymburk (20-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked BK Usti nad Labem (6-15) 91-59. American center Andrew Naymick (211-85, agency: Warren Sports International) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and Michael Lenzly chipped in 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) with 19 points and 8 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. CEZ Nymburk have an impressive series of nineteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BK Usti nad Labem lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. CEZ Nymburk will play against Inter Bratislava (#13) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Usti nad Labem will play against Levharti Chomutov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
NBL top team - CEZ Nymburk (20-1) had no problems winning another game on Monday. This time they crushed twelfth ranked BK Loko Plzen (5-16) 95-63. Lamayne Wilson nailed 21 points and 7 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) for the winning side. Ladislav Toth came up with 18 points for BK Loko Plzen in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the nineteenth consecutive win for CEZ Nymburk. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BK Loko Plzen lost their seventh game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 16 games lost. CEZ Nymburk will meet at home Inter Bratislava (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Loko Plzen will play against B&W Opava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 21: Chomutov was beaten by BC Kolin on the road 98-83. Plzen lost to BK Decin on its own court 52-67. B&W Opava was outscored by Levice in a road game 57-88. BK Pardubice rolled over Svitavy at home 113-83. USK Praha was crushed by BK Prostejov on the opponent's court 81-60.


BC Kolin - Chomutov 98-83

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked BC Kolin (15-5) beat at home 9th ranked Levharti Chomutov (7-14) 98-83 on Wednesday. The game without a history. BC Kolin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. BC Kolin outrebounded Levharti Chomutov 47-36 including 33 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Richard Field (196-85, college: Mercyhurst) nailed 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side and forward Jiri Jelinek (203-87) accounted for 14 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. American guard Rob Lowery (188-87, college: Dayton) came up with 20 points and power forward Veroslav Sucharda (204-76) added 15 points and 11 rebounds respectively for Levharti Chomutov in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BC Kolin maintains fourth place with 15-5 record. Newly promoted Levharti Chomutov keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. They share it with Levice. BC Kolin will meet BK Decin (#5) on the road in the next round. Levharti Chomutov will play against BK Usti nad Labem (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Chomutov: R.Lowery 20+4reb+3ast, P.Stanek 15+5reb+1ast, P.Pope 15+2reb+4ast, V.Sucharda 15+11reb, J.Krakovic 13+6reb+3ast, Z.Hanzlik 4+4reb+2ast
BC Kolin: R.Field 20+8reb+3ast, D.Machac 16+6reb+2ast, S.Zuzak 14+7reb+1ast, J.Jelinek 14+10reb+6ast, C.Barnes 14+5reb+3ast, R.Marko 10+4reb+1ast
gschID: 136713


Plzen - BK Decin 52-67

Very expected game when 12th ranked BK Loko Plzen (5-16) lost at home to fifth ranked BK Decin (14-7) 67-52 on Monday. The game without a history. BK Decin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. BK Decin forced 19 BK Loko Plzen turnovers and outrebounded them 40-28 including a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. Bosnian forward Admir Alic (198-84) nailed 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side and international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) accounted for 13 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Ladislav Toth (196-83) came up with 12 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Jaroslav Kovanda (204-82) added 5 points and 5 rebounds respectively for BK Loko Plzen in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for BK Decin. They maintain fifth place with 14-7 record. BK Loko Plzen lost their seventh game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 16 games lost. BK Decin will meet at home higher ranked BC Kolin (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BK Loko Plzen will play against B&W Opava (#14) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Plzen: L.Toth 12+5reb, V.Honomichl 9+1reb, M.Kozlik 6+1reb+1ast, J.Kovanda 5+5reb+1ast, T.Kubiznak 4+1reb+2ast, F.Smid 4+3reb+1ast
BK Decin: A.Alic 15+5reb, P.Houska 13+5reb+1ast, L.Stria 9+1reb+1ast, L.Sanders 8+6reb+4ast, T.Pomikalek 8+3reb, J.Boyer 5+5reb+4ast
gschID: 136714


Levice - B&W Opava 88-57

Rather predictable result when eleventh ranked Levice (7-14) rolled over at home bottom-ranked B&W Opava (3-18) 88-57 on Wednesday. Levice looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by B&W Opava's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Levice made 8 blocks. American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) nailed 19 points and 4 assists for the winning side and his fellow American import forward Dior Lowhorn (201-87, college: USF) accounted for 16 points and 6 rebounds. Four Levice players scored in double figures. International guard Jakub Sirina (185-87) came up with 11 points and 4 assists and Slovakian center Martin Miklosik (226-86, agency: JEMsports) added 9 points and 6 rebounds respectively for B&W Opava in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Levice moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Chomutov. B&W Opava lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 18 games lost. Levice will meet higher ranked Basketbal Svitavy (#8) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. B&W Opava will play against BK Loko Plzen (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
B&W Opava: J.Sirina 11+4reb+4ast, M.Miklosik 9+6reb, P.Strnisko 8+1reb, R.Klecka 8+4reb+1ast, K.Vlcek 5+2reb, J.Blazek 5+2reb
Levice: K.Grant 19+3reb+4ast, D.Lowhorn 16+6reb+1ast, S.Stemberger 12+6reb+2ast, S.Modric 10+7reb+3ast, M.Sykora 8+6reb+1ast, D.Marek 8+3reb+7ast
gschID: 136715


BK Pardubice - Svitavy 113-83

Not a big story in a game when 8th ranked Basketbal Svitavy (8-13) was outscored on the road by third ranked BK Pardubice (17-4) 113-83 on Wednesday. The game without a history. BK Pardubice led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 69.1 percent from the field and made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. BK Pardubice had a 26-14 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 82.4 percentage. BK Pardubice looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Canadian-Jamaican forward Corey Muirhead (198-83, college: W.Carolina) nailed 15 points and 5 assists for the winning side and swingman Jiri Cernosek (200-81) accounted for 18 points. Five BK Pardubice players scored in double figures. Congolese-French forward Boris Meno (203-83, college: Davidson) came up with 26 points and 7 rebounds and forward Pavel Milos (200-79) added 16 points respectively for Basketbal Svitavy in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BK Pardubice maintains third place with 17-4 record having just three points less than leader CEZ Nymburk. Loser Basketbal Svitavy keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. BK Pardubice will meet USK Praha (#6) on the road in the next round. Basketbal Svitavy will play against Levice and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Svitavy: B.Meno 26+7reb+3ast, P.Milos 16+4reb+2ast, J.Spacek 10+2reb+1ast, P.Mroz 9+2reb+2ast, L.Horak 6+4reb+1ast, T.Teply 6+1ast
BK Pardubice: J.Cernosek 18+2reb+3ast, M.Hampton 16+3reb+2ast, C.Muirhead 15+4reb+5ast, O.Peterka 12+3reb+2ast, P.Bohacik 12+2reb+2ast, L.Kotas 10+2reb+4ast
gschID: 136709


BK Prostejov - USK Praha 81-60

Everything went according to plan when second ranked BK Prostejov (17-3) outplayed at home 6th ranked USK Praha (13-8) 81-60 on Wednesday. The game without a history. BK Prostejov led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to USK Praha's 20. They outrebounded USK Praha 48-31 including a 35-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. American center Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-83, college: Denver) nailed 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and Slovakian forward Dusan Pandula (196-84) accounted for 15 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Vojtech Hruban (202-89) came up with 14 points and the former international center Stanislav Votroubek (212-81) added 10 points and 7 rebounds respectively for USK Praha in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for BK Prostejov. They maintain second place with 17-3 record having four points less than leader CEZ Nymburk. Loser USK Praha keeps the sixth position with eight games lost. BK Prostejov will meet NH Ostrava (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. USK Praha will play against BK Pardubice and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
USK Praha: V.Hruban 14+4reb, S.Votroubek 10+7reb+1ast, M.Vocetka 8+4reb, V.Cvek 5+3reb, M.Sotnar 5+2reb+3ast, M.Soukup 4+1reb
BK Prostejov: B.Gadri-Nicholson 18+6reb+3ast, D.Pandula 15+7reb, R.Pelikan 9+2reb, J.Bohacik 8+4reb+1ast, T.Peterson 6+8reb+2ast, P.Slezak 6+4reb
gschID: 136710


Inter Bratislava - NH Ostrava 78-69

Bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Wednesday night. This time they won against seventh-ranked NH Ostrava 78-69. NH Ostrava trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Inter Bratislava made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game, while NH Ostrava only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by NH Ostrava helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for Puerto Rican-American guard Emanuel Ubilla (188-86, college: Fair Dickinson) who led his team to a victory with 24 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Irish-Serbian power forward Mihajlo Pesic (206-81, agency: Court Side) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Inter Bratislava players scored in double figures. American guard Derek Wright (175-86, college: Austin Peay St.) answered with 13 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import center James Hughes (211-83, college: N.Illinois, agency: I.D.S. Law) added 6 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for NH Ostrava. NH Ostrava's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Inter Bratislava (4-17) moved-up to thirteenth place. NH Ostrava at the other side keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Inter Bratislava are looking forward to face league's leader CEZ Nymburk on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. NH Ostrava will play against the league's second-placed BK Prostejov (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
NH Ostrava: D.Wright 13+7reb+3ast, S.Manousos 11+5reb, R.Luettgerodt 10+6reb, M.Stuchly 8+4reb+1ast, J.Aleksejevs 8+6reb, J.Hughes 6+10reb+1ast
Inter Bratislava: E.Ubilla 24+7reb+4ast, M.Pesic 16+5reb+2ast, M.Trivunovic 15+1reb+3ast, S.Gavran 12+8reb, A.Kuffa 5+2reb+1ast, T.Durana 4+2reb
gschID: 136711


Usti n/Labem - CEZ Nymburk 59-91

NBL top team - CEZ Nymburk (20-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked BK Usti nad Labem (6-15) 91-59. The game was mostly controlled by CEZ Nymburk. BK Usti nad Labem was better in third quarter 27-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. CEZ Nymburk dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to BK Usti nad Labem's 32 and made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. They outrebounded BK Usti nad Labem 42-28 including a 29-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. American center Andrew Naymick (211-85, agency: Warren Sports International) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and British-American guard Michael Lenzly (189-81, college: Wofford) chipped in 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) with 19 points and 8 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and point guard Jiri Holanda (183-86) scored 9 points and 4 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. CEZ Nymburk have an impressive series of nineteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BK Usti nad Labem lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. CEZ Nymburk will play against Inter Bratislava (#13) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Usti nad Labem will play against Levharti Chomutov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Usti n/Labem: T.McFadden 19+8reb, A.Pistecky 12+3reb, J.Fohler 10+4reb+2ast, J.Holanda 9+4reb+4ast, L.Bazant 5+1reb+1ast, V.Hejl 2+3reb
CEZ Nymburk: A.Naymick 17+10reb+1ast, P.Pumprla 14+4reb+1ast, M.Lenzly 13+5reb+4ast, C.Simmons 9+7reb+2ast, P.Benda 8+5reb, M.Kremen 8+5reb+4ast
gschID: 136712


Round 19
Plzen - CEZ Nymburk 63-95

NBL top team - CEZ Nymburk (20-1) had no problems winning another game on Monday. This time they crushed twelfth ranked BK Loko Plzen (5-16) 95-63. The game was mostly controlled by CEZ Nymburk. BK Loko Plzen managed to win fourth quarter 19-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. CEZ Nymburk made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. CEZ Nymburk outrebounded BK Loko Plzen 44-24 including a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. American forward Lamayne Wilson (204-80, college: Troy) nailed 21 points and 7 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) for the winning side and the former international power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) accounted for 20 points. Forward Ladislav Toth (196-83) came up with 18 points and the former international guard Stepan Vrubl (186-76) added 8 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for BK Loko Plzen in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the nineteenth consecutive win for CEZ Nymburk. Defending champion maintains first place with 20-1 record. BK Loko Plzen lost their seventh game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 16 games lost. CEZ Nymburk will meet at home Inter Bratislava (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Loko Plzen will play against B&W Opava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Plzen: L.Toth 18+3reb, L.Pecka 10+2reb, S.Vrubl 8+5reb+4ast, F.Smid 8+2reb+1ast, J.Suchy 7, V.Honomichl 7+3reb+1ast
CEZ Nymburk: L.Wilson 21+7reb+1ast, P.Benda 20+4reb, L.Palyza 14+3reb+1ast, A.Abrams 9+2reb, E.Lawrence 6+2reb+2ast, P.Pumprla 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 166310




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


Standings - Basketligaen
Ligaen Standings
 1. Svendborg 16-1 
 2. Bakken 14-1 
 3. Naestved 10-6 
 4. Aalborg 7-9 
 5. SISU 7-10 
 6. Horsholm 6-10 
 7. Aabyhoj 6-10 
 8. Vaerlose 6-10 
 9. Horsens IC 6-11 
 10. Falcon 3-13 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 25.6
 1. White, Aalborg25.6 
 2. Harris, Horsens IC23.8 
 3. Henry, Naestved22.2 
 4. Rutherford, SISU20.1 
 5. Rasmussen, Vaerl.19.7 
 6. Kingsley, Svendborg19.7 
 7. Curry, Aabyhoj19.5 
 8. Bishop, Aalborg18.7 
 9. Bak, Horsholm16.6 
 10. Nielsen, Bakken16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tony BISHOP
  Aalborg
  (201-F-89)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Bishop, Aalborg10.8 
 2. Glynn, Naestved10.8 
 3. St.John, Horsens10.4 
 4. Benjamin, Horsholm9.6 
 5. Curry, Aabyhoj9.3 
 6. Phillips, Aabyhoj8.5 
 7. Colas, Horsholm8.5 
 8. Harris, Horsens IC8.4 
 9. Osgood-R., Vaerlose8.4 
 10. Johansen, Naestv.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Henry, Naestved5.1 
 2. White, Aalborg4.8 
 3. Sattler, Horsens IC4.2 
 4. Colman, Svendborg4.1 
 5. Elgmork, Aalborg4.0 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon3.9 
 7. Curry, Aabyhoj3.5 
 8. Sakne, Horsens IC3.2 
 9. Plannthin, Svend.3.2 
 10. Iversen, Bakken3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Henry, Naestved4.8 
 2. Wire, Vaerlose2.9 
 3. White, Aalborg2.9 
 4. Bishop, Aalborg2.5 
 5. Dennis, SISU2.2 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon1.9 
 7. Plannthin, Svend.1.8 
 8. Kristiansen, Aalbo.1.7 
 9. Sattler, Horsens IC1.7 
 10. Curry, Aabyhoj1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Harrison, SISU2.3 
 2. Phillips, Aabyhoj2.1 
 3. Colas, Horsholm1.9 
 4. Christoffers., Bak.1.9 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg1.7 
 6. Curry, Aabyhoj1.7 
 7. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.4 
 8. Eleraky, Aalborg1.1 
 9. Larsen, Vaerlose1.0 
 10. Vinson, Svendborg0.8 


It's a new year! But same business - by Joe Benjamin
It's a new year! But same business.

Hey world, pretty much everybody is on their way back from a nice holiday break. But playing basketball never stops, if your lucky you can get two or three days off. And then your right back at it. But a player like myself LOVES, work hard and come to practice. Being in Denmark over Christmas break you see clubs releasing their imported players from team and bring in new guys. But that the business of this game, because all clubs in Denmark, want their import players to be much better and more skilled than, the danish talent that they have on the team. So it's a big different for a guy coming out college, he wasn't the use to being the leading scorer. It could be a hard adjustment for some players. That's why you should work on your game all summer before you get on that plane before you come over to your new team.
Well world, I think I am going to take my own advice and head to the gym.
Joe Benjamin Signing out! Joe Benjamin (201-F/C-83, college: W.Virginia St.)

Happy New Year - by Thomas Soltau
Eurobasket Denmark wishes everybody a Happy New Year!

One half of the season is over, and now the second is already underway, as many youth teams are playing in the Lundaspelen in Sweden, and the very best teams of the first half of the season are getting ready to play for the Cup trophy this coming weekend.

A lot of exciting basketball is to come and a lot of talented players will be playing, trying to get better and trying to win, and that is what it is all about.





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


Skyforce-Charge complete trade - by Eurobasket News
The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced that the team has acquired forward Trey Gilder (6'9''-F-85, college: Northwestern St.) from the Canton Charge in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2012 NBA Development League Draft. To make room for him on the roster the team waived guard Ryan Anderson (6'4''-G-87, college: Nebraska). The active roster now stands at 10 players.

Gilder holds NBA Development League career averages of 13.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 95 games with the Colorado 14ers (50), Maine Red Claws (35) and Albuquerque Thunderbirds (10). He was named All-NBA D-League Honorable Mention after averaging 14.2 points and 5.6 rebounds in 45 games with Maine and Albuquerque in 2009-10. The 6-9, 185-pound forward was signed by the Memphis Grizzles on Aug. 27, 2009 and appeared in two games before being waived on Nov. 5. He averaged 10.5 points and 3.5 rebounds in four postseason contests to help Colorado claim the 2009 NBA D-League Championship.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Spurs' rookie guard Cory Joseph assigned to Austin Toros - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs rookie guard Cory Joseph (6'3''-PG-91, college: Texas) has been assigned to the Austin Toros according to the D-League affiliate's official Twitter account Tuesday afternoon.

Joseph, selected 29th overall by the Spurs in the 2011 NBA Draft, has logged a total of just 22 minutes in four games with the Southwest Division power this season.

Monday afternoon the Spurs also announced that off-guard Gary Neal was sent down to Austin for a rehab assignment effective immediately.

In terms of Joseph, the former University of Texas point guard should see his first action this coming Thursday, January 5th when the Toros face the Maine Red Claws at 7:30 pm from the Cedar Park Center in Austin.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

Springfield Armor acquire Damian Johnson, waive Aleja Rodriguez - by Eurobasket News
The Springfield Armor announced Tuesday that they have acquired Damian Johnson (6'7''-F-87, agency: Edge Sports, college: Minnesota) from the NBA D-Leagues available player pool. To make room on the roster, the Armor waived Alejo Rodriguez (6'8''-F, college: Iona).

Johnson, a 6-foot 7 forward, played in 11 games (four starts) with the Bakersfield Jam this season, averaging 2.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 20.0 minutes after joining the team via Bakersfields local player tryouts. Prior to joining the Jam, Johnson played for the Oita Heat Devils in Japans BJ League during the 2010-11 season, averaging 15.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 47 games (five starts). He also played for the Miami Heats summer league team in 2010.

Johnson spent four years at the University of Minnesota, where he averaged 7.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 127 career games for the Golden Gophers. The Thibodaux, LA, native graduated following the 2009-2010 season.

Rodriguez, whom the Armor waived, averaged 0.7 points and 2.6 rebounds in 7.3 minutes in seven games for the team.

Johnson joined the Armor for practice Tuesday and will be available when the Armor host the Erie BayHawks on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the MassMutual Center.

Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Erie BayHawks acquire top rebounder Phillips - by Eurobasket News
The Erie BayHawks today acquired forward Marvin Phillips (6'7''-F-83, college: Claflin) from the Fort Wayne Mad Ants in exchange for a draft pick.

The BayHawks will send their fourth-round pick in the 2012 NBA Development League draft to the Mad Ants. Erie waived Chaz McCrommon to make room for Phillips on the 10-player roster.

Phillips, at 6 feet 7 inches and 240 pounds, averaged 11 points and 7.9 rebounds in 12 games with Fort Wayne. He led the D-League in offensive rebounds in 2010-11, when he averaged 12.3 points and 9.3 rebounds. He also played for the Iowa Energy and in the CBA, the USBL, the WBA and in Mexico. He played collegiately at Claflin University in Orangeburg, S.C.

McCrommon, a 6-foot 7-inch, 201-pound guard, averaged 8.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 11 games.

Erie's next games are Thursday and Saturday at 7 p.m. at Springfield, Mass.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Bighorns' Ahern, Emmett named D-League Co-Performers of Week - by Eurobasket News
Reno Bighorns Blake Ahearn (6'2''-PG-84, college: Missouri St.) and Andre Emmett (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Texas Tech) were today named NBA Development League Co-Performers of the Week for games played Dec. 26 Jan. 1.

Ahearn, a 6-3, 190-pound guard out of Missouri State, averaged 30.0 points on 64 percent shooting to go with 5.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds, while Emmett, a 6-5, 224-pound forward out of Texas Tech, averaged 26.0 points on 67 percent shooting along with 6.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists as the Bighorns went 2-1 on the week.

Ahearn began the week with back-to-back 35-point outings as the Bighorns defeated the Idaho Stampede 120-98 on Dec. 26 and the Bakersfield Jam 139-114 on Dec. 29. In his third game of the week, he registered 20 points, four rebounds and four assists in a one-point loss, 98-99, to the Jam on Dec. 30. For the season, Ahearn is averaging 26.2 points and 7.0 assists in 39.6 minutes.

Emmitt scored a weeks high 39-points to go with eight rebounds and eight assists in the Dec. 29 outing against the Jam and returned the next night to score 29 points, pulling down five rebounds and dishing out four assists on Dec. 30. Against the Stampede, he chipped in with 10 points and five rebounds in the win on Dec. 26. On the season, Emmitt is averaging 20.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in 32.4 minutes.

Other top performers considered include the Dakota Wizards Maurice Baker, who averaged 12.0 points and 10.5 assists; the Canton Charges Tyrell Biggs, who averaged 17.0 points and 5.3 rebounds; the Springfield Armors JamesOn Curry, who averaged 22.0 points and 5.0 assists; the Erie BayHawks Chris Daniels, who averaged 20.0 points and 6.7 rebounds; the Austin Toros Eric Dawson, who averaged 22.5 points and 12.5 rebounds; the Iowa Energys Moses Ehambe, who averaged 20.5 points and 3.0 assists; the Los Angeles D-Fenders Courtney Fortson, who averaged 19.0 points and 7.5 assists, the Bakersfield Jams Jeremy Hazell, who averaged 19.0 points and 4.0 rebounds; the Fort Wayne Mad Ants Darnell Lazare, who averaged 21.7 points and 7.0 rebounds; the Tulsa 66ers Marcus Lewis, who averaged 12.5 points and 19.5 rebounds; the Sioux Falls Skyforces Casey Mitchell, who averaged 25.0 points and 5.3 rebounds; the Texas Legends Chris Roberts, who averaged 18.0 points and 7.0 rebounds and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers Greg Smith, who averaged 16.0 points and 9.7 rebounds.

Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

Spurs assign Gary Neal to D-League for medical rehab - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have assigned Gary Neal (6'4''-G-84, college: Towson) to the Austin Toros of the NBA Development League for a medical rehab assignment. Neal underwent an appendectomy on December 12, 2011.

Neal enjoyed a successful rookie campaign during the 2010-11 season. He averaged 9.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in 21.1 minutes in 80 games. He led all rookies in three-point field goal percentage, posting a .419 mark, and earned a spot on the 2011 All-Rookie First Team.

Neal will practice with the Toros on Monday and Tuesday of this week and then be re-evaluated by team doctors. At that point, a timeline for his return will be determined.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U16 celebrated the second straight win - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U16-Finland U16 69:66

Estonia U16 celebrated the second straight win at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side grabbed 69:66 win over Finland in Day 2 last game.
Estonia easily won the first period 23-10 and added 24-22 in the second frame. Finland however did not give up and responded with 11-4 in the third quarter. Moreover they won the last stanza 23-18 but reduced to 3 points at the end.
Finland meanwhile showed a better percentage from the field as they had 47% versus 45%.
Marko Meimer (197-F-96) stepped up with 13 points and Andres Andrei (184-G-96) notched 10. Karl-Robin Jurjens (193-F-96) delivered 9, while Ken Lill (188-G-96) and Karl-Gustav Soo (190-F-96) posted 8 apiece. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Tuomas Hirvonen (175-G-96) netted 12. Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) scored 10, whilst Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) notched 8.

Estonia U16: Marko Meimer 13, Andres Andrei 10, Karl-Robin Jurjens 9, Ken Lill 8, Karl-Gustav Soo 8
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 22, Tuomas Hirvonen 12, Elias Eerikinharju 10, Samuli Nieminen 8

Estonian Men U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
Starting five
#s#
Saimon Sutt
Sutt
Sander Saare
Saare
Martin Jurtom
Jurtom
Sander Kruus
Kruus
Tiit Talumaa
Talumaa
#e#5
4 Hendrik Ruut 190-G-94 Rapla Estonia
5 Kaarel Traumann 185-G-94 Noortekoondis Estonia
6 Saimon Sutt 195-G/F-95
7 Sander Saare 180-PG-94 Noortekoondis Estonia
8 Martin Jurtom 197-F-94 Tln Kalev Estonia
9 Kent Vene 192-F-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
10 Fredi Parker 170-G-94 Voru KK Estonia
11 Sander Kruus 199-C-95 Tartu Ulikool Estonia
12 Rain Koort 194-G/F-95 T.Sokk Estonia
13 Aleksis Anijarv 180-G-94 Noortekoondis Estonia
14 Tiit Talumaa 198-F-94 Noortekoondis Estonia
15 Karl Kask 206-F-95

Indrek Ruut Head Coach Rapla Estonia
Rait Kabin Assistant Parnu Estonia


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Finland U18 demolish the home side - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Finland U18 57:89

Finland U18 demolish the home side at the end of Day 2 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The guests celebrated an easy 89:57 win over Estonia to tie both records at 1-1.
Finland took control from the very beginning and enjoyed 24-7 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Estonia managed to bounce back with 22-20 but trailed 15 points at the halftime. Moreover Finland added 26-13 in the third quarter to benefit from the game. Finland also won the last stanza 19-15 to win the game.
Julius Rajala (204-F-94) erupted with 26 points for the winners and Joonas Lehtoranta (185-F/G-94) as well as Niko Mattila (191-G-94) posted 14 apiece. Henri Ventoniemi (196-F-95) collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while Mika Nuolivirta (210-C/F-94) scored 8. Sander Saare (180-PG-94) delivered 15 points in defeat and Martin Jurtom (197-F-94) netted 12.

Estonia U18: Sander Saare 15, Martin Jurtom 12, Tiit Talumaa (198-F-94) 10
Finland U18: Julius Rajala 26, Joonas Lehtoranta 14, Niko Mattila 14, Henri Ventoniemi 8+10 rebs, Mika Nuolivirta 8

Estonian Men U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
4 Lauri Vunk 203-C-96
5 Ken Lill 188-G-96 Rapla Estonia
6 Karl-Johan Lips 189-F-96
7 Ivo-Van Tamm 96
8 Kristofer Kurvits 192-G/F-96 T.Sokk Estonia
9 Jaagup Russak 179-G-96
10 Arles-Egert Lelle 188-G-96
11 Hendrik Heinla 180-PG-96 T.Sokk Estonia
12 Jurgen Kukk 197-F-96
13 Marko Meimer 197-F-96 T.Sokk Estonia
14 Silver Jurno 190-F-96 Audentese l. Estonia
15 Karl-Robin Jurjens 193-F-96

Pehka Rauno Head Coach Noortekoondis Estonia
Raido Rebane Assistant


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


P.J. Tucker Returns To Israel - by David Pick
No, the former Longhorns standout hasn't signed a deal to play in Israel just yet, however, in one week's time, Tucker will make a nippy appearance in the Holy Land visiting his European rookie season sweetheart -- Hapoel Holon.

Tucker, who reached double-figure scoring in 9 of his fourteen German League appearances, was recently named a member of the German Basketball Foreign All-Star team, with the game taking place on January 21st. Tucker's Brose Baskets will enjoy a break during January 14th - 20th, in which Tucker, the former 2007-08 Israeli Champion will return to support the organization he refers to as 'Home.'

'The All-Star game is on January 21st, giving us a little break, so I'll be coming to visit Israel for a week of vacation,' Tucker told Eurobasket via cellular phone. In the midst of the 2009-10 season, Tucker returned to Israel signing with Bnei Hasharon, but missed the opportunity of meeting Holon.

'I haven't been back to Holon since '08. They have a home game on the 15th against Habikaa so I'll definitely be in the stands supporting.' Tucker, who'll be staying at the Carlton Hotel in Tel-Aviv, will also enjoy a small team reunion. 'I'm excited to see Chris Watson and Moran Roth again. Basketball took me to some amazing places throughout my career but Holon is always in my heart and playing for them was by far the most favorite year of my career,' Tucker said.

'I also (hopefully) plan on going to Monday's Maccabi Tel-Aviv/Ashkelon game, seeing some of the guys I've played with and against. Why am I not going back to the Unites States? It's not enough time to go home, plus my son will be born on February 14th so I'll be home for that,' Tucker added.

With rumors spreading about the possibly of Tucker returning to play in Israel this season, he commented 'I love Israel, but I'm very happy in Bamberg and my contract here is guaranteed so it's impossible.'

Tre Simmons (Nymburk), Tony Washam (Obras) and Elton Brown (Trabzonspor), members of Holon's historic championship team, play season games during those dates, thus won't be joining Tucker.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @IAmDPick



Partizan signs Davis Bertans until 2015 - by Eurobasket News
Davis Bertans (205-F-92) is a new member of Partizan Belgrade. The Latvian prospect penned a deal until the end of the 2014/15 season. Bertans parted ways with Union Olimpija recently. He played 13 games for them in Adriatic league averaging 4.2 points and 1.5 rebounds. He also appeared ten times in Euroleague adding 3 ppg and 2.2 rpg. Davis Bertans joined Union Olimpija in November of 2010. He played for Daugavas Sporta Nams and BA Keizarmezs Riga before that. Bertans played for the Lithuanian NT last summer at the EuroBasket 2011. He had 5.6 ppg and 2 rpg for 5 games. At the NBA draft last year he was selected as 42nd overall pick by the Indiana Pacers.

Unicaja release Saul Blanco - by Eurobasket News
Saul Blanco (195-G/F-85) is no longer the player of Unicaja Malaga. The sides have reached an agreement on terms of contract termination. The guard joined Unicaja back in 2009. Saul Blanco posted 2.9 points and 0.9 rebounds per Euroleague game this season. In ABC his stats read 1.8 points and 1.3 boards per appearance. Previously the guard had stints with Farho Gijon and Fuenlabrada. Saul Blanco was the member of Spanish U16, U20 and National Teams.


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


Finnish Men U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
Starting five
#s#
Joonas Lehtoranta
Lehtoranta
Niko Mattila
Mattila
Ville Hanninen
Hanninen
Joni Herrala
Herrala
Henri Ventoniemi
Ventoniemi
#e#5
4 Joonas Lehtoranta 185-F/G-94 KTP Finland
5 Joni Herrala 185-G-94 ToPo Akatemia Finland
6 Niko Mattila 191-G-94 Pyrinto Finland
7 Ville Hanninen 192-G-95 TuNMKY Finland
8 Henri Ventoniemi 196-F-95 Tapiolan Honka Finland
9 Oskar Michelsen 197-F-95 PuHu Finland
10 Mikael Kauhanen 202-F-94 Helsinki Finland
11 Anton Odabasi 196-F-95 Tapiolan Honka Finland
12 Julius Rajala 204-F-94 ToPo Akatemia Finland
13 Miikka Luosmaa 202-C-94
14 Mika Nuolivirta 210-C/F-94 ToPo Akatemia Finland
15 Orlando Taylor 205-C-94

Ray Ailus Head Coach KTP Finland
Sami Toiviainen Assistant KTP Finland


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Finland U18 demolish the home side - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Finland U18 57:89

Finland U18 demolish the home side at the end of Day 2 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The guests celebrated an easy 89:57 win over Estonia to tie both records at 1-1.
Finland took control from the very beginning and enjoyed 24-7 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Estonia managed to bounce back with 22-20 but trailed 15 points at the halftime. Moreover Finland added 26-13 in the third quarter to benefit from the game. Finland also won the last stanza 19-15 to win the game.
Julius Rajala (204-F-94) erupted with 26 points for the winners and Joonas Lehtoranta (185-F/G-94) as well as Niko Mattila (191-G-94) posted 14 apiece. Henri Ventoniemi (196-F-95) collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while Mika Nuolivirta (210-C/F-94) scored 8. Sander Saare (180-PG-94) delivered 15 points in defeat and Martin Jurtom (197-F-94) netted 12.

Estonia U18: Sander Saare 15, Martin Jurtom 12, Tiit Talumaa (198-F-94) 10
Finland U18: Julius Rajala 26, Joonas Lehtoranta 14, Niko Mattila 14, Henri Ventoniemi 8+10 rebs, Mika Nuolivirta 8

Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Estonia U16 celebrated the second straight win - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U16-Finland U16 69:66

Estonia U16 celebrated the second straight win at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The home side grabbed 69:66 win over Finland in Day 2 last game.
Estonia easily won the first period 23-10 and added 24-22 in the second frame. Finland however did not give up and responded with 11-4 in the third quarter. Moreover they won the last stanza 23-18 but reduced to 3 points at the end.
Finland meanwhile showed a better percentage from the field as they had 47% versus 45%.
Marko Meimer (197-F-96) stepped up with 13 points and Andres Andrei (184-G-96) notched 10. Karl-Robin Jurjens (193-F-96) delivered 9, while Ken Lill (188-G-96) and Karl-Gustav Soo (190-F-96) posted 8 apiece. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Tuomas Hirvonen (175-G-96) netted 12. Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) scored 10, whilst Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) notched 8.

Estonia U16: Marko Meimer 13, Andres Andrei 10, Karl-Robin Jurjens 9, Ken Lill 8, Karl-Gustav Soo 8
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 22, Tuomas Hirvonen 12, Elias Eerikinharju 10, Samuli Nieminen 8

KORISLIIGA: Kataja defeated YMCA LPR - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 21: Only one contest tonight. Kataja (Joensuu) defeated YMCA Lappeenranta after 11 lead changes and six ties 86-75 (52-40). Quarters: 23-22, 29-18, 15-22, 19-13. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Tenn-Martin) led again Kataja (17-4) with a double-double 25pts/11rbs. B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: VCU) added 19 pts and gave seven assists. Jeremy Price (203-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) scored 18 pts and grabbed 11 rbs. Juho Nenonen and Juha Sten on injured list. DeAndre Haynes (187-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Kent St.) netted 19 pts and gave seven assists on visitor YMCA LPR (8-13) roster. Lawrence Hamm (198-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) added 18 pts.
In division 1. ToPo Academy beat BC Jyvaskyla 80-78 (40-36). Quarters: 23-18, 17-18, 14-16, 26-26. This game was a thriller with 12 lead changes and nine ties. Sauli Silvonen netted 20 pts for ToPo Academy and Jarno Nissinen 23 pts for BC JKL. FoKoPo (Forssa) has made a change on team roster. Baboucarr Bojang has been replaced by American Christopher Thompson.



Finnish Men U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
4 Fiifi Aidoo 175-PG-96
5 Tuomas Hirvonen 175-G-96
6 Henri Niemisto 194-G-96 ToPo Akatemia Finland
7 Elias Eerikinharju 185-G-96 ToPo Akatemia Finland
8 Ville Leikas 183-G-97
9 Arttu Saarijarvi 184-G-96
10 Okko Jarvi 190-F-96
11 Samuli Nieminen 200-F-96 Porvoon Tarmo Finland
12 Leo Machana 190-F-96
13 Juho-Matti Henttonen 195-C-96
14 Akseli Hartikainen 193-F-96
15 Thomas Van Santen 205-C-96

Pekka Salminen Head Coach ToPo Finland
Jari Nykanen Assistant


Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. Kataja 17-4 
 2. Nilan Bisons 13-5 
 3. Pyrinto 12-7 
 4. ToPo 12-8 
 5. Kauhajoki 12-8 
 6. Kouvot 9-10 
 7. Korihait 8-12 
 8. Salon Vilpas 8-12 
 9. LrNMKY 8-13 
 10. KTP 6-14 
 11. Namika Lahti 4-16 


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


Stats Leaders - Division I
Points Per Game
 Walter BAXLEY
  Lapua
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 28.7
 1. Baxley, Lapua28.7 
 2. Phillips, Oulun N.25.2 
 3. Williams, Lapua23.2 
 4. Manning, Huima21.7 
 5. Nofflet, Oulun N.21.6 
 6. Stamper, Pyrin.21.3 
 7. Abdullah, SayRi20.2 
 8. Green, Ura Basket19.7 
 9. Henderson, Porvoo.19.4 
 10. January, BC Nokia19.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kenneth COOPER
  SayRi
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 14.4
 1. Cooper, SayRi14.4 
 2. Moultrie, Oulun N.14.1 
 3. January, BC Nokia11.0 
 4. Britton, Huima10.8 
 5. Bojang, FoKoPo10.8 
 6. Stamper, Pyrin.10.7 
 7. Townes, BC Nokia10.5 
 8. Coleman, FoKoPo10.4 
 9. Williams, Lapua9.8 
 10. Green, Ura Basket9.5 
Assists Per Game
 Treylon MANNING
  Huima
  (176-PG-85)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Manning, Huima5.4 
 2. Phillips, Oulun N.5.1 
 3. Ikavalko, FoKoPo4.7 
 4. Viertola, Huima4.1 
 5. Riihela, BC Nokia3.8 
 6. Henderson, Porvoo.3.7 
 7. Jackson, Lapua3.2 
 8. Storrs, Jyvaskyla2.9 
 9. Harjula, Pyrinto II2.7 
 10. Baxley, Lapua2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Emmanuel JACKSON
  Lapua
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Jackson, Lapua2.7 
 2. Townes, BC Nokia2.2 
 3. Vanjoki, Tapiolan.1.9 
 4. January, BC Nokia1.9 
 5. Nofflet, Oulun N.1.8 
 6. Bojang, FoKoPo1.8 
 7. King, Porvoon1.7 
 8. Green, Ura Basket1.7 
 9. Williams, Lapua1.6 
 10. Abdullah, SayRi1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Brian MOULTRIE
  Oulun N.
  (198-C/F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Moultrie, Oulun N.2.3 
 2. Andrews, Ura B.1.9 
 3. January, BC Nokia1.2 
 4. Cooper, SayRi1.1 
 5. Laitinen, Tapiol.1.0 
 6. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.0.9 
 7. Britton, Huima0.8 
 8. Townes, BC Nokia0.8 
 9. Abdullah, SayRi0.8 
 10. Molenius, FoKoPo0.8 


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Blue, KTP21.8 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons21.7 
 3. Holloway, Salon V.20.6 
 4. Crocker, KTP20.4 
 5. Beidler, Kauhajoki20.0 
 6. Newson, Kataja18.6 
 7. Brooks, Namika L.18.6 
 8. Griffin, ToPo18.2 
 9. Hamm, LrNM.17.5 
 10. Tiedeman, LrNM.17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 14.4
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.14.4 
 2. Blue, KTP11.7 
 3. Newson, Kataja9.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki9.1 
 5. Hairston, Salon V.8.7 
 6. McDade, Nilan B.8.5 
 7. Williams, Pyrinto8.3 
 8. Zeno, Nilan Bisons8.1 
 9. Hamm, LrNM.7.9 
 10. Nikkila, Pyrinto7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jeb IVEY
  Nilan Bisons
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Ivey, Nilan Bisons5.2 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto4.3 
 3. Hannah, Kauhajoki4.3 
 4. Virtanen, Kataja4.1 
 5. Sarcevic, KTP4.0 
 6. Haynes, LrNM.4.0 
 7. Walker, Kataja3.9 
 8. Moore, Namika L.3.8 
 9. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.3 
 10. Ahonen, Salon Vil.3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Sten, Kataja2.5 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto2.3 
 3. Moore, Korihait2.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.2 
 5. Newson, Kataja1.9 
 6. Moore, Namika L.1.8 
 7. Crocker, KTP1.7 
 8. Haynes, LrNM.1.7 
 9. Holloway, Salon V.1.7 
 10. Sarcevic, KTP1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.2.5 
 2. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.1 
 3. Hairston, Salon V.1.3 
 4. Lehtoranta, Kataja1.0 
 5. Zeno, Nilan Bisons0.9 
 6. Jones, Nilan Bisons0.9 
 7. Blue, KTP0.9 
 8. Price, Kataja0.8 
 9. McDade, Nilan B.0.8 
 10. Bell, KTP0.7 


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


Dane Watts (ratiopharm Ulm) We Have Been Focused From The Start To Get Wins On The Road - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He is playing his first season for ratiopharm Ulm. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. Last season for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May'11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to eurobasket before their game

congrats on the 88-86 win in Braunschweig. Ratiopharm ulm have a 7-3 road record. What is the secret behind the success on the road? Did the early tough schedule help the team get extra tough on the road early?

We had to be prepared early to play on the road so we were focused on getting wins from the start. Playing hard for 40 minutes is the key on the road because the home team can make a run with the fans behind them on any possession.

The game was deadlocked at 52-52 at halftime. Both teams were scoring on a regular basis, but on defense I am sure coach Leibenath could have wished for less points given up. What was giving ratiopharm the biggest problems on defense in the first half?

They were getting some offensive put-backs and transition buckets.

ratiopharm Ulm had the 71-60 lead with 2.45 to play in the fourth quarter and Braunschweig came back, but you buckled down at the end. Was the ending a bit two nerve wracking with what you would have wished for?

Of course we would have enjoyed a comfortable win but Braunschweig hit big shots in the last minutes to make it a close game. We stayed together and made the plays necessary to win the game.

Branko Jorovic exploded with 20 points. Did anything else impress you about his game besides his three point shooting?

He hit some big shots in the end.

What has been your favorite ratiopharm Ulm moment in 2011?

Opening night in the Ratiopharm Arena.

What was your first thought when you saw the final Artland 49-Frankfurt 44? Ulm and Braunschweig scored more in the first 20 minutes.

I thought it was the first half score to be honest, Artland usually posts big numbers.

The Phoenix Suns signed Michael Redd who has been plagued by injuries the last three years. Will he be able to revive his career there and what will he give the Suns most?

They have a good training staff and it has worked for Grant Hill to keep his body right.

What is your favorite childhood New Years memory?

Winning the 3 on 3 basketball tournament with my friend in our Church lock in.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

BBL Round 16: Ratiopharm closed the round with the narrow win - by Eurobasket News
Eleventh-ranked BBC Bayreuth (7-9) made lots of trouble for first ranked Brose Baskets (13-2) on Monday. The visitors from Bamberg managed to secure only two-point victory 68-66. However their fans expected much easier game. BBC Bayreuth was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Brose Baskets made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. American forward Anthony Leon Tucker (198-85, college: Texas) fired 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Serbian forward Predrag Suput (200-77, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 16 points. American guard Danny Gibson (180-84, college: S.Indiana, agency: Limelight Hoops) produced 7 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side. BBC Bayreuth's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Brose Baskets have an impressive six-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 13-2 record, which they share with Ratiopharm. BBC Bayreuth at the other side keeps the eleventh place with nine games lost. Brose Baskets is looking forward to face Bayern Muenchen (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. BBC Bayreuth will play against New Yorker Phantoms (#6) in Braunschweig and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Sixth-ranked Bayern Muenchen (9-7) made lots of trouble for second ranked ratiopharm Ulm (13-2). ratiopharm Ulm managed to secure only one-point victory 76-75. However their fans expected much easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Tommy Mason-Griffin (180-89, college: Oklahoma) who helped to win the game recording 19 points. Dane Watts contributed with 6 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Jonathan Wallace (187-86, college: Georgetown, agency: Pro One Sports) replied with 26 points for Bayern Muenchen. ratiopharm Ulm have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Brose Baskets. Newly promoted Bayern Muenchen keeps the sixth place with seven games lost. They share the position with NY Phantoms and s.Oliver Baskets. ratiopharm Ulm will play against LTi 46ers (#16) in Giessen in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Bayern Muenchen will play on the road against the league's leader Brose Baskets (#1) in Bamberg and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Bremerhaven was also quite interesting. Sixth ranked EWE Baskets (9-6) played at the court of 8th ranked Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (8-8). EWE Baskets managed to secure a 8-point victory 97-89 on Monday. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of Bobby Brown who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 9 assists. At the losing side Terrell Everett responded with 14 points and 9 assists. EWE Baskets have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Loser Eisbaeren Bremerhaven dropped to the ninth position with eight games lost. They share it with Telekom Baskets. EWE Baskets will meet at home TBB Trier (#17) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven will play against Phoenix Hagen (#14) and hope to secure a win.
A very interesting game took place in Trier. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Telekom Baskets (8-8) to seventeenth ranked TBB Trier (5-11) 71-70 on Monday evening. The winners were led by Dru Joyce who scored that evening 16 points and 5 assists. TBB Trier moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with LTi 46ers. Telekom Baskets at the other side keep the ninth position with eight games lost. TBB Trier's next round opponent will be higher ranked EWE Baskets (#5) in Oldenburg and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Wuerzburg, where higher ranked ALBA Berlin (9-5) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked s Oliver Baskets (9-7) 84-65 on Monday. Jason Boone fired 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. s Oliver Baskets' coach John Patrick used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. s Oliver Baskets moved-up to sixth place, which they share with NY Phantoms and B.Muenchen. ALBA Berlin lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with five games lost. s Oliver Baskets will face Walter Tigers (#13) in Tuebingen in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ALBA Berlin will play at home against EnBW Ludwigsburg (#15).

Rest of the games of round 16 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Phoenix Hagen was crushed by Art.Dragons in Quakenbrueck 109-59. LTi 46ers was beaten by Fraport SKY at home 56-64. Walter Tigers lost to EnBW L'burg on the opponent's court 74-80. Bottom-ranked Goettingen unfortunately lost to NY Phantoms in a home game 66-76.
The best stats of 16th round was 19 points and 13 rebounds by Johannes Lischka of EnBW L'burg.

s.Oliver Baskets - ALBA 84-65

We should mention about the upset which took place in Wuerzburg, where higher ranked ALBA Berlin (9-5) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked s Oliver Baskets (9-7) 84-65 on Monday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-65. s Oliver Baskets dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to ALBA Berlin's 24. American power forward Jason Boone (198-85, college: New York U.) fired 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The other American import guard Ricky Harris (188-87, college: Massachusetts) chipped in 20 points. s Oliver Baskets' coach John Patrick used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International guard Heiko Schaffartzik (182-84) produced 22 points and American forward Torin Francis (210-83, college: Notre Dame) added 14 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. s Oliver Baskets moved-up to sixth place, which they share with NY Phantoms and B.Muenchen. ALBA Berlin lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with five games lost. s Oliver Baskets will face Walter Tigers (#13) in Tuebingen in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ALBA Berlin will play at home against EnBW Ludwigsburg (#15).
Top scorers:
ALBA: H.Schaffartzik 22+4reb+3ast, T.Francis 14+8reb, S.Schultze 12+2ast, D.Wood 6+3reb+5ast, K.Weaver 4+5reb, L.Staiger 3+1reb
s.Oliver Baskets: R.Harris 20+3reb+3ast, J.Boone 20+8reb, C.Kramer 13+4reb+1ast, I.Elliott 9+2reb+1ast, J.Little 9+4reb+3ast, B.Jacobson 5+3reb+4ast
gschID: 133235


Bayreuth - Brose Baskets 66-68

Eleventh-ranked BBC Bayreuth (7-9) made lots of trouble for first ranked Brose Baskets (13-2) on Monday. The visitors from Bamberg managed to secure only two-point victory 68-66. However their fans expected much easier game. BBC Bayreuth was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Brose Baskets made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. American forward Anthony Leon Tucker (198-85, college: Texas) fired 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Serbian forward Predrag Suput (200-77, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 16 points. American guard Danny Gibson (180-84, college: S.Indiana, agency: Limelight Hoops) produced 7 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import forward Beckham Wyrick (198-83, college: NC-Wilmington, agency: Pro One Sports) added 10 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. BBC Bayreuth's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Brose Baskets have an impressive six-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 13-2 record, which they share with Ratiopharm. BBC Bayreuth at the other side keeps the eleventh place with nine games lost. Brose Baskets is looking forward to face Bayern Muenchen (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. BBC Bayreuth will play against New Yorker Phantoms (#6) in Braunschweig and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Bayreuth: O.Jeanty 12+2reb, B.Hunter 10+4reb+2ast, B.Wyrick 10+5reb+1ast, C.Stokes 8+1reb+2ast, S.Schmidt 7+3reb, D.Gibson 7+5reb+4ast
Brose Baskets: P.Suput 16+1reb+1ast, A.Leon Tucker 15+8reb, B.Roberts 11+1ast, C.Jacobsen 9+3reb, A.Gavel 8+2reb+1ast, M.Slaughter 5+2reb+2ast
gschID: 133236


Art.Dragons - Phoenix Hagen 109-59

There was no surprise in Quakenbrueck where 13th ranked Phoenix Hagen (6-10) was crushed by third ranked Artland Dragons (12-4) 109-59 on Monday. The game without a history. Artland Dragons led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 35-of-43 free shots (81.4 percent) during the game, while Phoenix Hagen only scored nineteen points from the stripe. Artland Dragons forced 19 Phoenix Hagen turnovers and outrebounded them 44-24 including a 33-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Artland Dragons looked well-organized offensively handing out 34 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Phoenix Hagen's players. Phoenix Hagen was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard David Holston (170-86, college: Chicago St.) fired 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. The other American import swingman Brandon Thomas (198-84, college: Massachusetts) chipped in 15 points. Five Artland Dragons players scored in double figures. American guard Marc Antonio Carter (191-85, college: NC-Wilmington, agency: Limelight Hoops) produced 11 points and Lithuanian forward Zygimantas Jonusas (200-82) added 7 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Artland Dragons have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 12-4 record behind leader Brose Baskets. Loser Phoenix Hagen dropped to the twelfth place with ten games lost. Artland Dragons will face Telekom Baskets (#10) in Bonn in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Phoenix Hagen will play at home against Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.
Top scorers:
Phoenix Hagen: M.Antonio Carter 11+4reb+2ast, B.Brooks 9+1reb+1ast, E.Seward 8+3reb, Z.Jonusas 7+3reb+1ast, B.Kruel 6+1reb, A.Constantine 6+5reb
Art.Dragons: A.Hess 16+4reb, B.Thomas 15+4reb+3ast, N.Peavy 14+5reb+3ast, A.King 14+6reb+1ast, D.Holston 11+7reb+6ast, D.Fenn 11+3reb+2ast
gschID: 133229


TBB Trier - Telekom Baskets 71-70

A very interesting game took place in Trier. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Telekom Baskets (8-8) to seventeenth ranked TBB Trier (5-11) 71-70 on Monday evening. The hosts were ahead by 4 points but lost the second period ending it with a 3-point deficit before their 24-20 run, which allowed them to win the game. The winners were led by American point guard Dru Joyce (183-85, college: Akron) who scored that evening 16 points and 5 assists and the former international center Maik Zirbes (205-90) supported him with 16 points. Even 18 points by Lithuanian guard Benas Veikalas (192-83, college: Metro St.) did not help to save the game for Telekom Baskets. American center Chris Ensminger (209-73, college: Valparaiso, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 12 points and 4 assists for lost side. Four Telekom Baskets players scored in double figures. TBB Trier moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with LTi 46ers. Telekom Baskets at the other side keep the ninth position with eight games lost. TBB Trier's next round opponent will be higher ranked EWE Baskets (#5) in Oldenburg and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Telekom Baskets: B.Veikalas 18+3reb+2ast, T.Battle 14+2reb+1ast, C.Ensminger 12+4reb+4ast, S.Serapinas 10+7reb, J.Jordan 9+4reb+3ast, T.Gaffney 4+5reb+1ast
TBB Trier: D.Joyce 16+4reb+5ast, M.Zirbes 16+4reb+2ast, J.Washington 9+5reb, D.Dojcin 9+1reb+1ast, P.Zwiener 8+2reb+2ast, J.Bynum 6+3reb
gschID: 133230


LTi 46ers - Fraport SKY 56-64

Everything could happen in Giessen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourteenth ranked Deutsche Bank Skyliners and 15th ranked LTi 46ers had identical 5-10 record. But LTi 46ers were not able to use a home court advantage and lost to the opponent from Frankfurt 64-56 on Monday night. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 21-14. But LTi 46ers won second period 15-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Jermareo Davidson (208-84, college: Alabama) fired 16 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. The other American import guard Jimmy McKinney (192-83, college: Missouri, agency: Strategic Sports) chipped in 11 points and 4 assists. Bosnian power forward Elvir Ovcina (210-76, college: Syracuse, agency: Interperformances) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and American guard Barry Stewart (191-88, college: Mississippi St.) added 8 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. LTi 46ers' coach Bjoern Harmsen tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Deutsche Bank Skyliners (6-10) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Walter Tigers and Phoenix Hagen. LTi 46ers lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the sixteenth position with 11 games lost. Deutsche Bank Skyliners will face EnBW Ludwigsburg (#15) at home in the next round. LTi 46ers will play against the league's second-placed ratiopharm Ulm having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
LTi 46ers: E.Ovcina 20+13reb, K.Archibong 9+2reb+1ast, B.Stewart 8+6reb+2ast, W.Bernard 7+2reb+5ast, R.Oehle 6+2reb, C.Prewitt 5+1reb
Fraport SKY: J.Davidson 16+5reb+5ast, M.Thompson 13+2reb, J.McKinney 11+4reb+4ast, J.Herber 8+6reb+2ast, J.Burtschi 7+4reb+1ast, Q.Robertson 5+1reb
gschID: 133231


EnBW L'burg - Walter Tigers 80-74

There was an upset when higher ranked Walter Tigers (6-10) were defeated on the road by sixteenth ranked EnBW Ludwigsburg (5-10) 80-74 on Monday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Walter Tigers won third quarter 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. EnBW Ludwigsburg made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. The former international power forward Johannes Lischka (203-87) fired a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. American forward John Bowler (206-84, college: E.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 22 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). American guard Reggie Redding (196-88, college: Villanova) produced 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and Bosnian forward Adnan Hodzic (203-88, college: Lipscomb, agency: Pro One Sports) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Walter Tigers players scored in double figures. EnBW Ludwigsburg moved-up to fifteenth place. Loser Walter Tigers keep the twelfth position with ten games lost. EnBW Ludwigsburg will face higher ranked ALBA Berlin (#4) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Walter Tigers: A.Hodzic 12+5reb+1ast, L.Campbell 11+3reb+2ast, R.Redding 10+5reb+4ast, P.Cukinas 10+1ast, V.Duggins 10+5reb+2ast, N.Simon 6+1reb
EnBW L'burg: J.Bowler 22+7reb+2ast, J.Lischka 19+13reb, M.Dorris 11+2reb+3ast, A.Harris 9+2reb+2ast, D.Zavackas 8+5reb, J.Greer 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 133232


Ratiopharm - B.Muenchen 76-75

Sixth-ranked Bayern Muenchen (9-7) made lots of trouble for second ranked ratiopharm Ulm (13-2). ratiopharm Ulm managed to secure only one-point victory 76-75. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Bayern Muenchen won third quarter 23-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Bayern Muenchen 37-26 including 26 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Tommy Mason-Griffin (180-89, college: Oklahoma) who helped to win the game recording 19 points. The other American import forward Dane Watts (203-86, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 6 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Jonathan Wallace (187-86, college: Georgetown, agency: Pro One Sports) replied with 26 points and American-Bulgarian center Jared Homan (206-83, college: Iowa St.) added 19 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Bayern Muenchen. ratiopharm Ulm have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Brose Baskets. Newly promoted Bayern Muenchen keeps the sixth place with seven games lost. They share the position with NY Phantoms and s.Oliver Baskets. ratiopharm Ulm will play against LTi 46ers (#16) in Giessen in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Bayern Muenchen will play on the road against the league's leader Brose Baskets (#1) in Bamberg and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
B.Muenchen: J.Wallace 26+2reb, J.Homan 19+6reb+3ast, R.Benzing 10+5reb+1ast, C.Troutman 7+4reb+1ast, S.Hamann 5+2reb+6ast, A.Nadjfeji 4+2reb+2ast
Ratiopharm: T.Mason-Griffin 19+4reb+3ast, K.Nankivil 12+5reb+1ast, S.Esterkamp 9+2reb+1ast, R.Trice 8, P.Guenther 7+1reb+2ast, J.Bryant 7+11reb+1ast
gschID: 133233


Goettingen - NY Phantoms 66-76

Very predictable result when seventh ranked New Yorker Phantoms (9-7) beat on the road bottom-ranked BG Goettingen (2-14) 76-66 on Monday. The game without a history. New Yorker Phantoms led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. The game was also dominated by American players. Guard Immanuel McElroy (193-80, college: Cincinnati) fired 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Power forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) chipped in 13 points and 8 rebounds. New Yorker Phantoms' coach Sebastian Machowski allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Matt Bauscher (188-85, college: Boise St., agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) produced 17 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Raymond Sykes (206-86, college: Clemson) added 10 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five New Yorker Phantoms and four BG Goettingen players scored in double figures. New Yorker Phantoms moved-up to sixth place, which they share with B.Muenchen and s.Oliver Baskets. BG Goettingen lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. New Yorker Phantoms will face BBC Bayreuth (#11) at home in the next round where they are favorite. BG Goettingen will play against ALBA Berlin (#4).
Top scorers:
Goettingen: M.Bauscher 17+5reb+3ast, P.Horne 12+1reb+2ast, R.Sykes 10+7reb, M.Weber 10+2reb+1ast, S.Evans 10+5reb+1ast, R.Mafra 4+3reb+2ast
NY Phantoms: L.Greer 15+1reb+3ast, R.Melzer 13+8reb+1ast, I.McElroy 13+7reb+4ast, K.Visser 12+8reb+1ast, B.Jorovic 11+2reb+2ast, M.Umeh 8+1reb+3ast
gschID: 133234


Bremerhaven - EWE Baskets 89-97

The game in Bremerhaven was also quite interesting. Sixth ranked EWE Baskets (9-6) played at the court of 8th ranked Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (8-8). EWE Baskets managed to secure a 8-point victory 97-89 on Monday. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. It was a great shooting night for EWE Baskets especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Bobby Brown (188-84, college: CS Fullerton, agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 9 assists and power forward Adam Chubb (208-81, college: Pennsylvania, agency: Pro One Sports) who added 19 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side guard Terrell Everett (193-84, college: Oklahoma, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) responded with 14 points and 9 assists and guard Alex Gordon (184-85, college: Vanderbilt) scored 21 points. Five EWE Baskets and four Eisbaeren Bremerhaven players scored in double figures. EWE Baskets have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Loser Eisbaeren Bremerhaven dropped to the ninth position with eight games lost. They share it with Telekom Baskets. EWE Baskets will meet at home TBB Trier (#17) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven will play against Phoenix Hagen (#14) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Bremerhaven: A.Gordon 21+3reb+3ast, M.Smith 17+3reb, T.Everett 14+4reb+9ast, C.McNaughton 10+4reb, A.Smith 10+2reb+2ast, Z.Peacock 9+6reb+1ast
EWE Baskets: B.Brown 22+4reb+9ast, K.Hasbrouck 20+1reb+1ast, R.Burrell 20+5reb+1ast, A.Chubb 19+11reb+2ast, R.Paulding 11+5reb+1ast, D.Bahiense de Mello 3
gschID: 133228




Standings - 1. Bundesliga
1.Bundesliga Standings
 1. Brose Baskets 13-2 
 2. Ratiopharm 13-2 
 3. Art.Dragons 12-4 
 4. ALBA 9-5 
 5. EWE Baskets 9-6 
 6. NY Phantoms 9-7 
 7. B.Muenchen 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. Ensminger, Teleko.15.1 
 7. Leuer, Fraport SKY14.8 
 8. Swann, Ratiopharm14.5 
 9. Wood, ALBA14.5 
 10. Jeffers, LTi 46ers14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.8 
 2. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.3 
 3. Ensminger, Teleko.8.3 
 4. Evans, Goettingen7.9 
 5. Davidson, Fraport7.9 
 6. Leuer, Fraport SKY7.8 
 7. Watts, Ratiopharm7.1 
 8. Sykes, Goettingen7.1 
 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. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 6. Wood, ALBA5.1 
 7. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.6 
 8. Campbell, Walter T.4.5 
 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 


Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Give Anthony Smith One Month Contract Extension - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Not only Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney has had to experience a number of short term contracts in a season, but Anthony Smith (196-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Liberty) of the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven is also getting a taste of the short term contracts as he got his second of the current season, a one month contract extension.Smith is playing his first season with Bremerhaven after playing for Giessen last season and is averaging 9,1ppg and 2,6rpg in 29 minutes per game. 'Anthonys game is going up. He belonged to our best players in the last games. We are happy that we could keep him for another 4 weeks', stated Bremerhaven manager Jan Rathjen.

Source: Eisbaeren Bremerhaven

Illertal/Weissenhorn: Goodbye to Fuller, hello to Jones - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro B team BG Illertal/Weissenhorn has waived Harley Fuller (185-G-88, college: Molloy) and brought in Dominique Jones (175-G, college: Ft.Hays State), local newspaper Augsburger Allgemeine informs.
Fuller appeared in 14 games for the Panthers this season, averaging 12.7 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists per contest. The 23-year-old point guard had a season high 21 points against Langen in November and scored in double digits in all but three games played. Illertal/Weissenhorn coach John Staudt hopes to have found a new playmaker in Dominique Jones, who is currently working out with the team. Jones is 23 years of age and comes out of Harlem, New York. He graduated from NCAA D2 school Fort Hays State in 2011 and was a team mate of BSV Wulfen's Dijon Smith (203-F-89, college: Ft.Hays State) in college. Jones averaged 17.9 points, 6.3 assists and 3.5 boards per contest as a senior and was named to the NABC Division II All-America Team following his final year at FHSU. He played for Hudson Valley Hype of the EBA most recently.

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


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Kosta CHARALAMPIDIS
  KAO.
  (189-G-76)
  Avg: 19.7
 1. Charalampidi., KAO.19.7 
 2. Christmas, AGOR18.5 
 3. Kommatos, Marousi18.0 
 4. Bavcic, KAOD17.0 
 5. Roby, Peristeri GS16.4 
 6. Tapoutos, Aris16.3 
 7. James, Aris15.1 
 8. Baynes, Ikaros14.8 
 9. Hatten, Kolossos14.6 
 10. Gagaloudis, Marou.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Edin BAVCIC
  KAOD
  (210-F/C-84)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Bavcic, KAOD9.8 
 2. Baynes, Ikaros9.7 
 3. Haritopoulos, Maro.8.2 
 4. Stepheson, Panio.8.1 
 5. Goree, PAOK7.1 
 6. Kommatos, Marousi6.7 
 7. Flowers, KAOD6.7 
 8. Giddens, PAOK6.6 
 9. Muldrow, Aris6.3 
 10. Tapoutos, Aris6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Yannis GAGALOUDIS
  Marousi
  (192-G-78)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Gagaloudis, Marousi5.3 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.1 
 3. Diamantidis, Panat.5.0 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Pani.5.0 
 5. James, Aris4.7 
 6. Charalampidi., KAO.4.3 
 7. Petroulas, Periste.3.9 
 8. Thompson, Ilysi.3.8 
 9. Wright, AGOR3.4 
 10. Tsamis, Kolossos3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Darryl THOMPSON
  Ilysi.
  (173-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Thompson, Ilysi.2.3 
 2. Wright, AGOR2.1 
 3. James, Aris1.8 
 4. Christmas, AGOR1.7 
 5. Tsamis, Kolossos1.6 
 6. Calathes, Panathin.1.6 
 7. Hatten, Kolossos1.4 
 8. Chatzis, Ilysiakos1.3 
 9. Gardener, Ilysiakos1.3 
 10. O''Bryant, Kavala1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sam MULDROW
  Aris
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Muldrow, Aris1.8 
 2. O''Bryant, Kavala1.4 
 3. Flowers, KAOD1.3 
 4. Hines, Olympiakos1.2 
 5. Scott, Peristeri GS1.0 
 6. Johnson, Ikaros1.0 
 7. Stepheson, Panio.1.0 
 8. Giddens, PAOK0.9 
 9. Vougioukas, Panat.0.8 
 10. Edwards, Perister.0.8 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Olympiakos 9-1 
 2. Kolossos 9-1 
 3. Panathinaikos 8-1 
 4. Panionios 7-3 
 5. Peristeri GS 5-4 
 6. Kavala 5-5 
 7. AGOR 5-5 
 8. Aris 4-6 
 9. PAOK 4-7 
 10. Ilysiakos 4-7 
 11. KAOD 3-7 
 12. Ikaros 2-8 
 13. Marousi 0-11 


*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


Washingtonians Hooping in Hungary - by Josh Wilson
The basketball world is a small one. Every new teammate seems to know someone you do. Whether its a college teammate or someone you played with in high school you can usually come across a common person that has crossed your paths. This can be a great advantage for every hooper in landing your next job or gaining information on a country or team. The vast network that connects us all is a powerful tool that should be harnessed by every player. Its all about networking.

I try and help out any player that has crossed my path and gained my respect. If I hear of a job or my team needs a player, I'll do my best to track down someone. So far I have been able to get my college teammate Stephen Sir (195-G-82, college: N.Arizona) on my team in Germany (the best shooter I have ever played with or seen) and now my friend Nik Raivio (192-G-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland) on my current team, Kaposvari KK. We all need a shot, our chance, the big break. If you are in the position to help a hooper you respect, you should do so. Wouldn't you want someone to do the same for you?

This year I am fortunate enough to play with two other Washingtonians. I myself played for Mark Morris High School in Longview, WA while Nik Raivio played for Mountain View in Vancouver, WA and Michael Fey (213-F/C-83, college: UCLA) played for Capital High School in Olympia, WA. Tell me when that has happened before? Three players from the same state all on the same team is crazy. Olympia is only an hour drive from Longview and Vancouver is only 30 minutes. Now we are all hooping in a little city in Hungary. Mike and Nik can ball too, check out their stats. Since my last post we won a tough overtime game where I had 33 point and 6 assists, Nik had 26 points and 5 rebounds, Mike 17 points and 10 rebounds. Not too shabby for the Great Northwest. The victory put us in position to move up to 5th but unfortunately we lost to Falco on the 28th. We are tied for 7th and ready to make a run the second half of the season. Heads Up: We are 6-2 since Mr. Fey showed up.

My immediate network is killing overseas right now; Ruben Boykin (201-F-85, college: N.Arizona) (Greece A1), Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86, college: N.Arizona) (Russia) and Stephen Sir all groomsmen in my wedding and putting in work. My other friends and former Lumberjacks Zarko Comagic (201-F-85, college: N.Arizona) (Poland), Kristian Kuhn (208-C-87, college: N.Arizona) (Germany), Cameron Jones (193-G-89, college: N.Arizona) (NBDL), and Mike Trinh. Omar Krayem (185-G-86, college: Cal.Baptist) (Sweden), Longview legend and LCC star in Sweden averaging 20 pts and 6 assists. Kurt Cunningham (205-C/F-87, college: Boise St.) (France) and Daniel Werner (203-F-87, college: Florida) (Italy) from last years team also moved up to great leagues and are showing they belong in the top leagues in Europe. All these players are in high places and know GMs, agents and coaches throughout each league. These are all people I have played with. I didn't even mention any of the ones I have played against. Send your video out and have your friends put in a good word. What's the worst that could happen?

This blog may seem random but there is a point; use your network to better yourself and help your friends. Not every agent can be trusted and not everyone will be honest about the quality and legitimacy of the team/country youre going to. Before getting yourself in a bad position ask someone who has been there before if it's a good idea. There are MANY things that you should take into account before making a decision on where you're going, not just dollar signs. Veterans have seen most of Europe so don't be afraid to ask. Facebook and other social media platforms are a great way to connect with players and agents. Use all the tools necessary to give you the best chance at a good job. Lastly, you should introduce yourself to as many agents and coaches as possible. You never know where your next job may come from.

If you want to know more about me you can watch my highlights on YouTube (http://youtu.be/ApGzS3h-csQ) or follow me on twitter @jdubball21. Check back in a few days for next the blog. Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, agency: Hightower Law Firm, college: N.Arizona)

Michael Schachtner signed also with Factum Sport - by Tamas Deri
American forward Michael Schachtner (206-F-86, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) agreed with Factum Sport Debrecen and will replace injured Kenny Izzo. The 206 cm tall Schachtner graduated on the University Wisconsin-Green Bay in 2009 and had a solid senior season averaging 11.6ppg, 4.5rpg in 33 games of the Horizon League. He signed his first professional contract with Kapfenberg Bulls in Austria and run a good rookie season helping his team with 13.2ppg, 4.3rpg in 40 games of the Austrian Bundesliga. He played with the Bulls in the Austrian Cup Final and was also member of the All-Star game. During the summer 2010 he agreed with CSM Oradea and moved to Romania where he finished the season puting up 12.6ppg, 3.8rpg. Schachtner is a very good outside shooter as he was shooting with 45.5% behind the line last season - made 50 of his 110 3points shoots.

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


Journey To Iceland - by J'Nathan Bullock
It was getting late in the minds of Hoopers (basketball players), August came and went most professional guys have already left to go abroad. I being two seasonss removed from Horizon League Champs and reaching the final 32 that March faced another humbling time. At this point Ive already seen the good and bad of playing professionally off shore, and many believed I was in denial. After a slight scare with an over usage injury too my Vastus Medialis Obliquus aka VMO, teams were passing on me. Blessed I was back healthy but without the opportunity to prove in fact I am healthy; I looked up and I was still in Detroit, MI as September reached its half way point. Sigh
Finally a ray of hope the phone ringed the faxed pick up and an offer came out. I signed to Grindavik, Iceland, hold up wait ICELAND!!! Lets get ready for a nice hot winter ummmm or not. The season starts the first of October and some paperwork has held the deal up again. Now, back to the waiting game. A cup and league game later the paperwork cleared my tickets booked, Im excited to get back to the game!
The opinions on visiting Iceland yet alone playing Professional Basketball there tend to cross the board. What about the flight, is it long? Not necessarily, a six hour flight isnt that bad but this was the Lords test of patience for me. To seal the deal, the delays turned a day of travel unto 46 hours of travel landing me in Iceland with enough time to take a nap eat some pizza and play in my first game since December 2010. Oh, of course again the wait begins but hey I made it to Iceland! Up next, life in Iceland stay tuned!


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


Israeli National League round 13 best performance: Marcus Ginyard - by Eurobasket News
American swingman Marcus Ginyard (196-G/F-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Ironi Nahariya, receiving a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 24-year old player was the main contributor (37 points, eight rebounds and three assists) to as his team Ironi Nahariya moved-up to the 7th position in the Israeli National League. Ironi Nahariya is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 6th lost game this season out of 12 games. In the team's last game Ginyard had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Ironi Nahariya's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of North Carolina star has very solid stats this year. Ginyard is in league's top in points (4th best: 23.1ppg) and averages impressive 62.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 31-year old American Jermaine Hall (196-F-80) of league's leader Macc.B.Yaakov. Hall had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for Macc.B.Yaakov to edge the lower-ranked Lev Hasharon (#11, 5-8) 95-92. Of course Macc.B.Yaakov still keep the league's top spot. His team lost just two games this season, while they won 11 matches. Hall is well-known at Macc.B.Yaakov and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 23.2ppg (#2). He also registered 6.3 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Errick McCollum (185-G-88, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) of Hapoel K/S (#13). McCollum showcased his all-around game by recording 29 points, nine rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Hapoel K/S, leading his team to a 87-72 easy win against Hapoel Y/M (3-10). Hapoel K/S can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 3-10 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for McCollum he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. McCollum has individually a great season in Israel. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 28.8ppg (best scorer), rebounds with 9.2rpg (9th best) and assists with 4.2apg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Thomas Sanders (194-G-85) of Hapoel Y/M - 28 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Charles Dewhurst (195-G-87) of Hod Hasharon - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Avi Sukar (187-G-76) of Hod Hasharon - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
7. Tal Michael Dunne (197-F-87) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 27 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Marshall Moses (198-F-89) of Hapoel K/S - 26 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Gabe Blair (203-F-87) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Lewis Clinch (191-G-87) of Lev Hasharon - 36 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

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

P.J. Tucker Returns To Israel - by David Pick
No, the former Longhorns standout hasn't signed a deal to play in Israel just yet, however, in one week's time, Tucker will make a nippy appearance in the Holy Land visiting his European rookie season sweetheart -- Hapoel Holon.

Tucker, who reached double-figure scoring in 9 of his fourteen German League games, was recently named a member of the German Basketball All-Star game, taking place on January 21st. Tucker's Brose Baskets will enjoy a break during January 14th 20th, in which Tucker, the former 2007-08 Israeli Champion will return to support the organization he refers to as 'Home.'

'The All-Star game is on January 21st, giving us a little break, so I'll be coming to visit Israel for a week of vacation,' Tucker told Eurobasket via cellular phone. In the midst of the 2009-10 season, Tucker returned to Israel signing with Bnei Hasharon, but missed the opportunity of meeting Holon.

'I haven't been back to Holon since '08. They have a home game on the 15th against Habikaa so I'll definitely be there supporting.' Tucker, who'll be staying at the Carlton Hotel in Tel-Aviv, will also enjoy a small team reunion. 'I'm excited to see Chris Watson and Moran Roth again. Basketball took me to some amazing places throughout my career but Holon is always in my heart and playing for them was by far the most favorite year of my career,' Tucker said.

'I also (hopefully) plan on going to Monday's Maccabi Tel-Aviv/Ashkelon game, seeing some of the guys I've played with and against. Why am I not going back to the Unites States? It's not enough time to go home, plus my son will be born on February 14th so I'll be home for that,' Tucker added.

With rumors spreading about the possibly of Tucker returning to play in Israel this season, he commented 'I love Israel, but I'm very happy in Bamberg and my contract here is guaranteed so it's impossible.'

Tre Simmons (Nymburk), Tony Washam (Obras) and Elton Brown (Trabzonspor), members of Holon's historic championship team, play season games during those dates, thus won't be joining Tucker.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @IAmDPick



*****************************************************
  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. Otto 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


Standings - B1
Nazionale Standings
Div.North-East
 1. Trento 11-5 
 2. Trieste 10-5 
 3. Perugia 8-8 
 4. Comsum.it SI 5-11 
 5. Firenze 5-11 
 6. Santarcangelo 4-12 
Div.North-West
 1. Omegna 13-2 
 2. Torino 11-5 
 3. Treviglio 10-6 
 4. Casalpusterlengo 9-7 
 5. Castelletto 8-8 
 6. Pavia 7-9 
Div.South-East
 1. Bari 9-7 
 2. Recanati 8-8 
 3. Chieti 8-8 
 4. San Severo 7-9 
 5. Fabriano 5-11 
 6. Ruvo 2-14 
Div.South-West
 1. Napoli 12-4 
 2. Orlandina 10-6 
 3. Ferentino 10-6 
 4. Latina Basket 8-8 
 5. Anagni 6-10 
 6. Matera 6-10 


Best players of Italian SerieA round 14 - by Eurobasket News
Georgian Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86, agency: World Sport Agency) had an amazing evening in the last round for CS Bologna and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 25-year old forward had a double-double of 19 points and fourteen rebounds, while his team beat Novipiu CM (#14, 4-9) 70-62. CS Bologna maintains the 3rd position in Italian SerieA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. CS Bologna will need more victories to improve their 9-4 record. Sanikidze has many years of experience at CS Bologna, through which he has constantly improved. Sanikidze has impressive league stats. He leads league in rebounds with 10.2rpg. Sanikidze is in league's top in and averages solid 60.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old Montenegrin forward Milos Borisov (201-F-85) of Banca Tercas. Borisov impressed basketball fans with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Of course Banca Tercas cruised to a 73-65 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Fabi Shoes (#15, 4-9). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Banca Tercas is still at the dead bottom 17th position. 10 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Banca Tercas managed to get this year. Borisov is a newcomer at Banca Tercas and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Drake Diener (196-G-81, agency: Priority Sports) of Banco di Sard. (#6). Diener scored 21 points and passed seven assists. He was a key player of Banco di Sard., leading his team to a 78-73 win against the lower-ranked Angelico BI (7-6). Banco di Sard. needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 7 victories and 6 lost games. Diener has a great season in Italy. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.8ppg (6th best) and assists with 3.3apg (4th best). He also has FGP: 58.3% and 3PT: 45.3%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aubrey Coleman (193-G-87) of Angelico BI - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79) of Fabi Shoes - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
6. James White (199-G-84) of Scavolini PS - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Yakhouba Diawara (201-F-82) of Cimberio VA - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Taquan Dean (193-G-83) of Sidigas AV - 24 points and 10 rebounds
9. Benjamin Ortner (206-F/C-83) of Benetton TV - 18 points and 9 rebounds
10. Quinton Hosley (201-F/G-84) of Banco di Sard. - 15 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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


BJ League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael PARKER
  Shimane SM
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 24
 1. Parker, Shimane SM24.0 
 2. Palmer, Fukuoka21.3 
 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: 14.5
 1. Holm, Niigata Albi.14.5 
 2. Roberts, Shins.11.1 
 3. Hamilton, Fukuok.10.8 
 4. Malloy, Iwate B.10.6 
 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. Shimura, Sendai5.0 
 5. Dixon, Hamamats.4.8 
 6. Takushi, Oita H.4.8 
 7. Dukes, Sendai 89e.4.6 
 8. Shimizu, Miyazaki.4.6 
 9. Yamamoto, Iwate B.4.6 
 10. Namizato, Okina.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.2.2 
 7. Lyons, Miyazaki SS2.0 
 8. Golson, Shimane SM1.8 
 9. Ohguchi, Hamamats.1.7 
 10. Joho, Toyama G.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 


Standings - BJ League
BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Niigata Albirex 13-8 
 2. Hamamatsu P. 13-9 
 3. Akita NH 13-9 
 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 19-5 
 2. Osaka Evessa 15-5 
 3. Kyoto Hannar. 15-5 
 4. Shiga L-Stars 15-7 
 5. Fukuoka Rizing 15-9 
 6. Shimane SM 12-10 
 7. Miyazaki SS 11-13 
 8. Oita H.Devils 5-18 
 9. Takamatsu FA 1-21 


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


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Al Jahraa 0-0
 2. Al Kuwait 0-0
 3. Al Qadsia 0-0
 4. Al Sahel 0-0
 5. Al Yarmook 0-0
 6. Kazma 0-0


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


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Courtney SIMS
  VEF Riga
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 26.3
 1. Sims, VEF Riga26.3 
 2. Kalve, Valmiera19.5 
 3. Ozols, Jurmala18.4 
 4. Peiners, LU18.3 
 5. Krumins, Jelgava18.3 
 6. Mayo, Liepaja18.2 
 7. Lucas, Valmiera17.6 
 8. Young, Ventspils15.7 
 9. Mediss, Turiba15.4 
 10. Kanbergs, Jelgava14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Jonats, Jurmala9.6 
 2. Sims, VEF Riga9.0 
 3. Berzins, VEF Riga8.6 
 4. Rozitis, Valmiera8.3 
 5. Dargais, LU8.1 
 6. Willard, Ventspils8.1 
 7. Mednis, Turiba7.8 
 8. Nelson, Jelgava6.9 
 9. Kalve, Valmiera6.7 
 10. Andriukaitis, Lie.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Mayo, Liepaja5.4 
 2. Lucas, Valmiera4.5 
 3. Lejasmeiers, Vents.4.2 
 4. Coders, Jurmala4.0 
 5. Strelnieks, Ventsp.3.7 
 6. Janicenoks, VEF R.3.6 
 7. Perry, VEF Riga3.5 
 8. Kravcenko, Liepaja3.4 
 9. Gray, Ventspils3.0 
 10. Valters, VEF Riga3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  VEF Riga
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 3
 1. Millage, VEF Riga3.0 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.2.6 
 3. Peiners, LU2.3 
 4. Kanbergs, Jelgava1.9 
 5. Gray, Ventspils1.8 
 6. Osins, LU1.8 
 7. Mayo, Liepaja1.7 
 8. Ozols, Jurmala1.7 
 9. Perry, VEF Riga1.7 
 10. Young, Ventspils1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Berzins, VEF Riga1.4 
 2. Rozitis, Valmiera1.2 
 3. Ozols, Jurmala1.0 
 4. Cain, VEF Riga1.0 
 5. Jonats, Jurmala0.9 
 6. Dukulis, Liepaja0.8 
 7. Willard, Ventspils0.8 
 8. Meiers, Ventspils0.7 
 9. Gromovs, U180.7 
 10. Sims, VEF Riga0.7 


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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 improved to 2-0 record - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Latvia U18 61:76

Latvia U18 improved to 2-0 record in Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The team won over Sweden U18 76:61 in the opener of Day 2.
Sweden surprised the Latvian side with 20-17 in the first period and continued their push in the second frame as well. The Scandinavian team added 17-15 for 37:32 halftime advantage. Latvia however needed two victories in the second half to seal the victory. The latter produced a 23-12 in the third quarter and finished the game with 21-12.
Latvia showed 51% from the field and had 28.6% from the three-point line. Sweden had only 31.5% from the field and 33.3 from the arc.
Roberts Stelmahers (195-F-94) and Ivars Zvigurs (193-G-95) paced all the winners with 20 points each. Rihards Adins (202-F-94) collected 10 points and 13 rebounds, while Roberts Krastins (196-F-94) nailed 9. Sebastian Schuszler ended up with 14 in defeat and Jesper Eliasson scored 14.

Sweden U18: Sebastian Schuszler (201-F/C-94) 21, Jesper Eliasson (201-F-94) 14
Latvia U18: Roberts Stelmahers 20, Ivars Zvigurs 20, Rihards Adins 10+13 rebs, Roberts Krastins 9

Latvian Men U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
8 Davis Erglis 190-F-96
9 Artis Arnitis 195-C-96
10 Renars Apsitis 185-G-96
11 Rudolfs Stradnieks 202-C-96
12 Dzeiks-Eduards Krumins 186-G-97
14 Ralfs Rusins 195-F-96
15 Gustavs Treimanis 187-G-96
20 Ricards Melderis 185-PG-96
21 Davis Cima 184-G-96
22 Davis Zonne 183-PG-96
23 Ervins Meznieks 185-F-96
24 Klavs Krastins 189-F-97

Gints Fogels Head Coach VA Latvia
Ziedonis Jansons Assistant Riga Latvia


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Sweden U16 achieved the first victory - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Latvia U16 55:48

Sweden U16 achieved the first victory at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The Scandinavian side overcame 55:48 in Day 2. Sweden U16 is with 1-1 record as well as Latvia U16.
Sweden started with 16-9, but led 5 points at the halftime. Latvia bounced back with 13-11 to trail 22-27 after 20 minutes. The third quarter was decisive in the quarter as Sweden needed 15-2 to answer for all the questions in the game. Although Latvia responded with 24-13, they could not save the game.
Oliver Gustavsson (195-F-96) paced all the winners with 13 points and Andreas VonUthmann netted 11. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) collected 9 points and 12 rebounds, while William Skagius (196-C-96) added 8. Renars Apsitis (185-G-96) and Dzeiks-Eduards Krumins (186-G-97) delivered 11 points each in the losing effort.

Sweden U16: Oliver Gustavsson 13, Andreas Von Uthmann (194-F-96) 11, Erik Johansson 9+12 rebs, William Skagius 8
Latvia U16: Renars Apsitis 11, Dzeiks-Eduards Krumins 11


Latvian Men U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
Starting five
#s#
Toms Leimanis
Leimanis
Roberts Krastins
Krastins
Dimitrijs Brizgalovs
Brizgalovs
Rihards Adins
Adins
Raiens Saubergs
Saubergs
#e#5
2 Toms Leimanis 183-G-94 U18 Latvia
6 Raiens Saubergs 184-G-95 U18 Latvia
7 Roberts Stelmahers 195-F-94 U18 Latvia
8 Roberts Krastins 196-F-94 U18 Latvia
10 Gustavs Puhovs 198-F-94 U18 Latvia
12 Dimitrijs Brizgalovs 186-G-94 U18 Latvia
21 Sandis Ceplitis 194-F-94 U18 Latvia
32 Andzejs Pasecniks 208-C-95 U18 Latvia
42 Rihards Adins 202-F-94 U18 Latvia
43 Ivars Zvigurs 193-G-95 U18 Latvia
44 Elvijs Miculis 200-F-94 U18 Latvia

Guntis Endzels Head Coach Ventspils Latvia
Janis Butans Assistant LU Latvia


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


LFK finals will take place in Kaunas - by Adomas Kraunevicius
BEKO-LKL general director Linas Gilys revealed the venue of the LKF Cup final four in today's BEKO- LKL All Star Game presentation in Klaipeda. The LKF final four will take place in the new Kaunas arena. The Final 4 is scheduled to take place on the 17th-18th of February.

'Kaunas received the right to organize the Final 4 which will occur several weeks before the BEKO-LKL All Star game', said Gilys.

Last year's LKF winner was determined in Alytus.


LKF: Pieno Zvaigzdes gets a difficult victory against Rudupis - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys - Rudupis Prienu 59:57

Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys started the III round of the LKF Cup with a victory in their home court over Rudupis Prienu 59:57 (21:21, 19:13, 8:16, 11:7).

This match was a debut for Pasvalys guard Gytis Sirutavicius (195-SF-83) who played 5 minutes. He did not attempt any shots, made 1 steal, 2 turnovers and 2 fouls.

The second leg match will be played on the 1st of February in Prienai where Pasvalys will have to defend their two point lead.

Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys: TreVon Hughes (183-PG-87, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) 19 (4/7 3 pt), Saulius Kulvietis (203-F-91) 12, Eimantas Bendzius (203-F-90) 10 (6 rebs), Zydrunas Kelys (188-G-87) 7.

Rudupis Prienu: Simas Buterlevicius (200-F-89) 12, Gediminas Orelikas (199-G/F-90) 11, Edgaras Zelionis (207-C-89) 10, Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80) 8.

LKF: Vasylius leads Siauliai past Neptunas - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Neptunas Klaipeda - BC Siauliai 96:105

BC Siauliai has made a first step towards the third round of LKF Cup in Klaipeda by defeating local Neptunas Klaipeda 105:96. The second leg match will be played on the 11th of January in BC Siauliai.

Neptunas lost two of their players before this match - center Lukas Bonner (213-C-85, college: Massachusetts) terminated the contract and left for USA and forward Simas Galdikas (203-F-87) missed the match due to family circumstances.

BC Siauliai: Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) 31 (14 rebs, 9 fouls received, 49 value points), Denzel Bowles (208-F/C-89, college: JMU) 22 (8 rebs), Arvydas Siksnius (196-F-87, college: Weatherford JC) 12, Cam Long (193-G-88, college: George Mason) 10.

Neptunas Klaipeda: Marius Runkauskas 27 (6 rebs, 32 value points), Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-F-85, college: Virginia) 21 (8 rebs), Arturs Brunins (199-F-82) 14, Mantas Ruikis (197-G/F-85) 12, Martynas Mazeika (193-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) 10.



*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


Lets make Majic! - by Majic Dorsey
Hello and Happy New Years world! First and foremost I want to say thank you to the best world basketball site, www.eurobasket.com. It is truly an honor to be one of the first bloggers to post. Let me start by formally introducing myself. My name is Majic Dorsey and Im from Baltimore City. Sports has always been a passion of mine since young. Thus, I couldnt just play one, I had to conquer two: Football and basketball. Accomplishments include: #1 high school football player for the state of Maryland. (1998-99). I set the Baltimore City High School record for touchdowns and most yards in one game-6 touchdowns & 634 all purpose yards. I attended power house school Dunbar Senior High, then transferred to power house prep school, Mount Zion Christian Academy (where Tracy McGrady was drafted from the NBA). Our team featured NBA All Star Amari Stoudemari and NBA starting point guard Jarret Jack. As time past, I then transferred to Gwynn Lake Prep, where I averaged 35 points per game, received All-Metro and All-State honors. After high school, I studied at Brevard Community College, where I won Florida player of the year and #1 Point guard in the nation. Ive been featured in Sports News, Ball Star Magazine and Slam Magazine top 10 players in the USA in 2005 and was named the top Juco point guard in the nation. I ranked second in the country in scoring with 28.6 points per game. Playing for the WBA was a great experience, I won player of the year and was coached by Atlanta Hawks advance scout, Harold Ellis. This was the beginning to my professional career, which has been a great blessing. I became a member of the AND 1 ESPN TV Reality show, AND 1 Streetball team and the AND 1 Streetball play station 2 video game. My first pro team I had the opportunity to play with was overseas, The Mayas de Yucatan. I lead the league in scoring at 33.33 points per game. Midway of my overseas professional career, I was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers and Orlando Magic NBA D-League as a starting point guard-blessed to play the whole season (50 games). I have worked for eight different NBA teams in my career and its been a life changing experience, one Id love to share with you.

I look forward to using this blogging opportunity to help other players who are interested in pursuing a career in the basketball industry. Topics I plan on covering include, but are not limited to: eating habits, money, attendance and its importance, dealing with the exposure etc. Most importantly, I look forward to helping players that are serious about being drafted and have questions that need answering prior to committing and signing that contract.

I just finished a great season in Latin America LNBP as the leading scorer, assists and free throws. I was titled Sponsor Caliente Player of The Year 2011/2012 from the league-a complete honor! I broke the league record for assists with 23 assists in 2 different games in the same season.

To the players reading this, I would be more than happy to help you with the fundamentals of finding work or giving knowledge about teams and the leagues. I have played internationally and the least I can do is give you the tools and guidance needed to experience living your dream. I will do my best to post blogs weekly, as that is my goal! Please do not hesitate to ask questions about Latin America or pro ball. I look forward to connecting with you!

Lets make Majic!


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


Boris Lalovic returns to Hercegovac - by Darko Pekic
Before the holidays Savo Djikanovic (211-C-75, agency: Beo Basket) signed a contract in Etha ( Cyprus) and closed the first team doors for his countryman Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) who had to search for a new club. But the 30 year old did not wait long for a new professional opportunity. He got a call from his old club Hercegovac Bileca and decided to accept the offer to collaborate again with an old friend- Zoran Glomazic , his former coach in Ibon, Mogren and Hercegovac (two years ago).

Boris Lalovic started his career in Ibon Niksic along with the current Montenegro NT player Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket). He also played for many other Montenegrin clubs in his long career. In Hercegovac he will have a chance to meet some former teammates also- Nikola Lalic (187-PG-89, agency: Sport Connect) who played with him in Niksic during the season 2004/2005 and Goran Gajovic (199-SF-88), another ex Ibon. His partner in the paint will be the strong Montenegrin center Marko Rakocevic (205-C-83).

Caja Laboral's Dusko Ivanovic wins Coach of the Month award - by Eurobasket News
Dusko Ivanovic is named the best coach in Liga Endesa for December. His Caja Laboral won all four games during the month and currently has 10-3 record. Alicante and their Head Coach Txus Vidorreta also registered all four wins, but Ivanovic won the award due to better point difference. Caja Laboral outplayed Lagun Aro GBC 86-74 at the beginning of the month. After that, the Vitoria team registered 67-75 road win against UCAM Murcia. On December 18, Caja Laboral crushed Regal Barca 71-60 and ten days later they grabbed 79-80 victory in Bilbao. Dusko Ivanovic took over Tau Ceramica (Caja Laboral) in 2008. He worked with them also from 2000 to 2005. They won two championship titles together and three Spanish Cups. Caja Laboral plays tonight against Fuenlabrada.

*****************************************************
  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. Bryant, LA Lakers25.9 
 6. Love, Minnesota T.25.4 
 7. Bynum, LA Lakers22.7 
 8. Bargnani, Toron.22.6 
 9. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.5 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.22.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrew BYNUM
  LA Lakers
  (213-C-87)
  Avg: 17
 1. Bynum, LA Lakers17.0 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.15.3 
 3. Love, Minnesota T.15.2 
 4. Hawes, Philadelph..12.5 
 5. McGee, Washingt.11.0 
 6. Cousins, Sacramen.10.6 
 7. Gasol, Memphis G.10.2 
 8. Bogut, Milwauke.10.0 
 9. Haslem, Miami Heat10.0 
 10. Humphries, New J.10.0 
Assists Per Game
 Kyle LOWRY
  Houston R.
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Lowry, Houston R.11.0 
 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. Lawson, Denver N.2.5 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers2.5 
 4. Lowry, Houston R.2.4 
 5. Curry, Golde S.2.3 
 6. Granger, Indiana P.2.2 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..2.0 
 8. Millsap, Utah Jazz2.0 
 9. Allen, Memphis G.2.0 
 10. Wall, Washington2.0 
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. McGee, Washingt.2.4 
 5. Chandler, New Y.2.2 
 6. Wade, Miami Heat2.0 
 7. Gasol, Memphis G.2.0 
 8. Bynum, LA Lakers2.0 
 9. Dalembert, Houst.2.0 
 10. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.0 


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 4-3 
 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. Memphis G. 2-3 
 3. N.Orleans H. 2-3 
 4. Houston R. 2-3 
 5. Dallas M. 2-4 


Cuban upset with NBA over Mavs' White House plan - by Eurobasket News
The Mavericks are getting their White House trip, though Mark Cuban and the NBA disagree on how it was arranged.

And Cuban insists the league still messed up by not giving the champions a game in Washington.

'It doesn't change the fact that they didn't (schedule) a game in DC for us,' the Mavericks owner wrote Tuesday in an email. 'Given the compressed schedule it should have been more of a priority because they knew better than any of us how few days off we would have to do something.'

Cuban said Monday night in Dallas that 'the league office was stupid or dumb or worse' to not schedule the defending champions in Washington so they could have the traditional trip to meet the president. But the NBA noted that scheduling that game wouldn't have necessarily meant seeing President Barack Obama.

'Our jurisdiction doesn't extend to scheduling the president, and scheduling the Mavericks against the Wizards would have been no guarantee that the president would be in town and available,' league spokesman Mike Bass said.

But, Bass said, the league did find a suitable solution.

'We learned that he would be available on Jan. 9 and began working with the Mavericks to accommodate that availability and the Mavericks' schedule. Fortunately, we were able to make it work,' Bass said.

The Mavericks will meet Obama on Monday, at the start of a road trip to Detroit and Boston.

But Cuban insisted the Mavs did their own work on this one.

'We took the lead,' he wrote. 'Obviously, we have to include the NBA in our plans.'

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com

Clippers sign big man Solomon Jones - by Eurobasket News
The Clippers signed free agent Solomon Jones (6'10''-F/C-84, college: S.Florida) to a nonguaranteed contract Monday worth about $1 million, said a person not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

Jones is a 6-foot-10 power forward/center who the Clippers think will give them some depth in the frontcourt.

Jones spent last season with the Indiana Pacers, where he played in 39 games and averaged 3.6 points and 2.9 rebounds in 13.5 minutes.

Jones has spent about four-plus seasons in the NBA and is known to be an athletic big man.

His career averages are 3.1 points, 2.9 rebounds in 10.9 minutes.

Jones worked out for the Clippers on Monday along with 7-footer D.J. Mbenga, 6-11 Hilton Armstrong and 6-11 Dan Gadzuric.

Courtesy of http://latimesblogs.latimes.com

Warriors close to signing Nate Robinson - by Eurobasket News
Two people with knowledge of the negotiations say the Golden State Warriors are close to signing guard Nate Robinson (5'9''-PG-84, college: Washington), who was released by the Oklahoma City Thunder last month.

The people spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the deal was yet to be finalized or formally announced by Golden State. The Bay Area News Group first reported the pending signing of Robinson, who would join a small backcourt also featuring Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry. Fellow former University of Washington star Isaiah Thomas of the Sacramento Kings first tweeted the news.

Robinson, the three-time NBA Slam Dunk champion, will provide depth at the guard spot as Curry has already sprained his troublesome, surgically repaired right ankle twice this season after going through the same thing several times last year. At 5-foot-9, Robinson makes Curry and Ellis - each 6-foot-3 - look big.

The Warriors are 2-3 under first-year coach Mark Jackson heading into Wednesday's game at San Antonio.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced the 27-year-old Robinson's release Dec. 24. Robinson didn't attend Oklahoma City's training camp after the lockout lifted, with Presti saying then that it was 'unlikely he will have an opportunity to contribute on a nightly basis.'

A midseason acquisition last season from the Celtics, Robinson appeared in only four games with three playoff appearances during his short tenure with the Thunder. He averaged 3.3 points and 1.5 assists in 7.5 minutes per game.

Robinson, a seventh-year pro, was acquired from Boston as part of the deal that brought center Kendrick Perkins to the Thunder at the trade deadline last season.

During the offseason, Robinson was arrested for urinating in public outside a bookstore in a New York City suburb.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Josh McRoberts out with sprained toe - by Eurobasket News
Los Angeles Lakers forward Josh McRoberts (6'10''-F-87, college: Duke) was inactive for Tuesday's 108-99 win against the Houston Rockets because of a sprained left big toe.

The free agent signee, averaging 5.7 points and 5.7 rebounds in 23.3 minutes per game on the season, suffered the injury last week in the Lakers' 100-91 loss to the Sacramento Kings when colliding with center DeMarcus Cousins. He re-aggravated the injury later that game when teammate Pau Gasol inadvertently landed on his foot.

McRoberts played in the Lakers' next four games following the Sacramento loss but sat out Monday's practice.

'It just hasn't really got any better so I'm just going to take some time and see if a little time off of it, I can get healed up,' McRoberts said.

The five-year veteran is listed as day to day and it is unclear whether he will play in the Lakers' next game on Thursday against the Portland Trail Blazers.

'I'm just trying to get it healthy, get it back right because games come so quick and there's really no time to rest,' McRoberts said. 'So, I'm just trying to rest it up and be healthy for the majority of the season here.'

McRoberts, who was wearing black kinesiology tape on his left foot before the game, said the Lakers' training staff is doing 'all kinds of stuff' to reduce the swelling in his big toe.

The Lakers finish the week after the Portland game with the second night of a back-to-back against Golden State at home and then host Memphis on Sunday.

McRoberts' fellow free agent signee, Troy Murphy, took his spot in the rotation.

'We have Troy sitting there, so Troy's minutes will go up,' said Lakers coach Mike Brown.

Courtesy of ESPN

Bogut leaves Bucks for personal reasons - by Eurobasket News
Andrew Bogut (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) left the Milwaukee Bucks for undisclosed personal reasons and missed Tuesday night's game against the Utah Jazz.

His last entry on his personal Twitter feed - ''On to the next one. No road win is easy.... Flying to Utah shortly'' - was posted shortly after the Bucks lost to Denver, 91-86 Monday night. However, he was not with the team for shootaround earlier Tuesday.

Bogut, who is averaging 14.3 points and 10.0 rebounds after elbow surgery ended last season, was replaced in the starting lineup by Drew Gooden.

Mike Dunleavy, who missed the loss to the Nuggets with flu-like symptoms, was also not with the team due to groin pain. Carlos Delfino took Dunleavy's starting spot.

Reserve guard Beno Udrih has been dealing with a left shoulder sprain and also did not dress for the game against the Jazz.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Spurs' rookie guard Cory Joseph assigned to Austin Toros - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs rookie guard Cory Joseph (6'3''-PG-91, college: Texas) has been assigned to the Austin Toros according to the D-League affiliate's official Twitter account Tuesday afternoon.

Joseph, selected 29th overall by the Spurs in the 2011 NBA Draft, has logged a total of just 22 minutes in four games with the Southwest Division power this season.

Monday afternoon the Spurs also announced that off-guard Gary Neal was sent down to Austin for a rehab assignment effective immediately.

In terms of Joseph, the former University of Texas point guard should see his first action this coming Thursday, January 5th when the Toros face the Maine Red Claws at 7:30 pm from the Cedar Park Center in Austin.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

Kings' Cousins denies making trade request - by Eurobasket News
One day after being sent home by the Sacramento Kings, DeMarcus Cousins (211-C/F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) said he has not asked to be traded.

'I want to address my missing the New Orleans game Sunday,' Cousins said Monday, according to ESPN.com. 'I have not demanded or requested a trade. I don't agree with the actions taken but will give my sincere effort to put it behind me and compete the best I can for my team.'

Kings coach Paul Westphal, in a statement released by the team, said that Cousins has demanded to be traded and was sent home before the teams game against the Hornets in Sacramento on Sunday night.

'When a player continually, aggressively, lets it be known that he is unwilling/unable to embrace traveling in the same direction as his team, it cannot be ignored indefinitely,' Westphals statement said.

'DeMarcus Cousins has demanded to be traded. In the best interest of our team as we go forward, he has been directed by me, with the support of management, to stay home from the New Orleans game tonight.'

But Cousins' agent, John Greig, told SI.coms Sam Amick, 'DeMarcus never demanded a trade. I'm surprised the Kings, if they believe the player wanted a trade, wouldn't have made a phone call to his representative. Maybe Westphal is just feeling the heat early this season.'

Sacramento is 2-3 after beating the Hornets on Sunday.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Heat Knock Off Pacers 118-83 - by Daniel Gibson
MIAMI---No Dwyane Wade no problem. The Indiana Pacers came to South Beach to face a Heat team coming off of their first loss of the season and the Heat looked focused from the start.

The final score, 118-83 doesnt tell the full story. LeBron James played a complete game putting his entire arsenal on display. He scored 33 points hitting 12-of-21 shots and dishing out 13 assists. His partner Wade was held out of the game rest and heal up from an injury.

His only bad moment of the night came in the third quarter when he went down in a heap after stepping on Paul Georges ankle. He stayed down for a minute grabbing at it but it wasnt hurt bad enough to slow him down or force him out of the game.

The Pacers fought back in the third quarter after falling behind in the second. In the second quarter the Pacers couldnt throw a rock in the ocean standing on the beach. They were only 1-of-15 shooting from the field and the Heat defense contested every shot.

Coming out of the half the Pacers cut the lead down to 12 after it reached 25 but they couldnt make enough plays to chip into it any further.

When James wasnt driving to the basket or hitting fade away jumpers he was setting up his teammates with pinpoint passes. James Jones stepped up big in Wades absence with

14 points on 4-of-9 shooting with all of his baskets coming from behind the arc.

Roy Hibbert led the Pacers with a double-double scoring 16 points and grabbing 12 boards. Tyler Hansbrough was a spark off of the bench with 14 points but the captain Danny Granger struggled to get anything going. Granger finished with six points on 2-of-13 shooting from the floor.

Indiana was disappointed with the outcome but they dont have time to hang their heads as they have a game on Friday night against the Boston Celtics. Lance Stephenson left the game with a twisted ankle and did not return. No further information was given on his status.


Tuesday's games review (6): Kobe scores 37, Lakers hold off Rockets 108-99 - by Eurobasket News
Memphis G. - Sacramento K. 113-96
The Grizzlies wanted to put the blowout loss from their last game behind them, and the Sacramento Kings paid the price for Memphis' recovery. Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) scored 23 points, Sam Young (6'6''-F-85, college: Pittsburgh) added 20 and the Grizzlies beat the Kings 113-96 on Tuesday night. Memphis' performance was a big improvement from its lackluster 104-64 loss at Chicago on Sunday. 'We had to get it out of our mind,' said guard Mike Conley, who scored 14 points in his return from an ankle injury. 'That was a terrible way to lose. We just didn't put forth the effort. But I think we did a good job of putting it in the back of our mind. New day, new game.' O.J. Mayo had 16 points, Marc Gasol also scored 14 and Tony Allen had 10. Gasol also had 15 rebounds as Memphis outrebounded Sacramento 49-41. 'The crazy thing about (Chicago), we didn't even do any partying or anything the night before to celebrate the New Year,' Mayo said. 'We tried to keep it professional, and still came out and got beat by 40. This definitely was a great win to get coming back home.' Jimmer Fredette scored 17 points and fellow rookie Isaiah Thomas had 15 to lead Sacramento as the Kings' reserves got extended minutes with Memphis leading by double digits for a bulk of the second half. ' (I did it) for two reasons,' Kings coach Paul Westphal said of playing the bench. 'One is that we had a lot of offensive firepower on the floor with Jimmer and Isaiah and (Francisco Garcia). We were able to spread to floor and have a lot of 3-point shooting and get penetration. I thought the best chance to get back in the game was to crack open a few steals and get some threes. 'If that did happen, we would have our starters fresh for the last 5 or 6 minutes. If it didn't happen, they would be rested for dinner.' J.J. Hickson was the only Sacramento starter to reach double figures, scoring 12 points. Travis Outlaw added 11. The Kings' starting backcourt of Tyreke Evans and Marcus Thornton combined for only 14 points on 6 of 18 shooting. Memphis finished 55 percent from the field, led by Gasol's 7 for 10, Mayo at 8 of 11 and Gay 10 for 16. Part of that came from Memphis controlling the paint 72-46. The Kings shot 41 percent. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Utah Jazz - Milwaukee B. 85-73
Al Jefferson (6'10''-F/C-85) scored a season-high 26 points to lead the Utah Jazz to an 85-73 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night. Paul Millsap (6'7''-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech) had 13 points and 12 rebounds and Gordon Hayward added 12 points for the Jazz. Hayward scored five points on back-to-back possessions and Millsap added a jumper on the next offensive set to clinch the game with 1:07 to play. Drew Gooden had 24 points and 12 rebounds for the Bucks but didn't have the inside presence of center Andrew Bogut as the Jazz had plenty of point-blank looks at the basket. Bogut missed the game due to personal matters and Mike Dunleavy was out with groin pain. Led by Brandon Jennings' 4-for-19 performance, the Bucks shot just 31 percent and had 10 shots blocked by the Jazz, including a career-best five by Derrick Favors. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

LA Lakers - Houston R. 108-99
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) scored 37 points, Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) had 21 points and 22 rebounds in the first 20-20 game of his career, and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Houston Rockets 108-99 Tuesday night for their fourth victory in five games. Pau Gasol scored 14 points for the Lakers against the franchise that tried to acquire him in a three-team trade in the offseason, and the Lakers survived a tight fourth quarter with Bryant's brilliance and tough defense, holding the Rockets without a field goal for just under 6 minutes. Kobe eventually took over, scoring seven consecutive points down the stretch of the Lakers' third straight win over the Rockets at home. Kyle Lowry scored 22 points and Luis Scola added 20 for the Rockets, who opened a three-game trip with their eighth loss in 11 road games against the Lakers. Kevin Martin had 12 points on 5-of-17 shooting, missing seven of his eight 3-point attempts. Rockets swingman Courtney Lee had to be helped off the court with 10:40 to play after he collapsed in obvious pain from his right leg on a noncontact play in front of the Lakers' bench. Lee, who scored nine points, couldn't put weight on the same leg that bothered him with cramps during training camp. The Lakers were smooth down the stretch in their seventh game in 10 days, matching Oklahoma City for the NBA's busiest early-season schedule. Houston scored six straight points to trim Los Angeles' lead to 93-89 with 3:54 to play, but Bryant hit a jumper and converted a three-point play on consecutive possessions before willing home a fallaway jumper with 1:59 left, putting the Lakers ahead by 11. Bynum had another dominant low-post performance in his third game back from suspension, barely missing his career-high of 23 rebounds in his second career 20-rebound game. The Lakers also got a solid game from fellow 7-footer Gasol, who was nearly traded to the Rockets last month in a three-team deal for Chris Paul, but the trade was scuttled by the NBA. The Lakers are still adjusting to new coach Mike Brown's schemes and standards, as evidenced by their inconsistency - an 0-2 start and three straight wins followed by an unsightly loss at Denver on New Year's Day which featured a 6-for-28 shooting performance by Bryant. So with a jam-packed schedule leaving no time to practice, Brown is teaching whenever possible. He watched a DVD of the Denver loss with Bryant on the plane ride home, analyzing every shot - and his staff did the same with every significant player over the last 24 hours. Los Angeles led by eight points in the first half, but Houston led for much of the third quarter on 11 points by Chase Budinger, who finished with 16. Bryant spent the first few minutes of the fourth quarter in the locker room, but returned to the game after Bynum and four reserves kept the Lakers ahead. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Cleveland C. - Charlotte B. 115-101
Rookie Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) scored 20 points and veteran Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina) had 19, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 115-101 win over the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday night. Cleveland continued its strong 3-point shooting, making 10 of 21 from behind the arc. The Cavaliers made 16 of 26 attempts from 3-point range Sunday, falling one short of the team record in a 98-82 home win over New Jersey. Back-to-back 3s by Daniel Gibson gave the Cavaliers a 103-86 lead midway through the fourth quarter. Rookie Tristan Thompson added 16 points for Cleveland, which moved over .500 for the first time since Nov. 9, 2010, when it was 4-3. The Cavaliers finished last season with a 19-67 record. D.J. Augustin scored a season-high 26 points for the Bobcats, who have lost four straight since opening the season with a 96-95 home win over Milwaukee on Dec. 26. Charlotte coach Paul Silas was whistled for a technical foul for arguing with an official in the fourth quarter with the Bobcats trailing 108-91. Irving, the No. 1 pick in the 2011 draft, matched his season high in scoring and had six assists. He brought the crowd to its feet when he blocked Augustin's breakaway layup attempt in the third quarter. Thompson, selected by Cleveland with the fourth pick, recorded season highs in scoring and rebounds (9). The rookie power foward also received a thunderous ovation when he blocked Byron Mullens' dunk attenpt in the fourth quarter. Gerald Henderson had 16 points for the Bobcats after being held scoreless in the first half. Mullens, who played one season at Ohio State, scored a career-high 14 points. Augustin, Corey Maggette and D.J. White scored all of Charlotte's 34 points in the first quarter. Augustin ended the period by stealing the ball from Ramon Sessions and scoring on a layup to give him 14 points. The Bobcats hit 12 of 19 shots in the quarter and led 34-27. The Cavaliers finished the second quarter with an 8-2 run, sparked by two 3-pointers from Anthony Parker, to lead 57-51 at halftime. Cleveland's spurt continued early in the third period. Five points by Anderson Varejao and 3-pointers by Irving, Jamison and Omri Casspi helped the Cavaliers build an 80-65 lead. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Chicago B. - Atlanta H. 76-74
Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) 's layup with 3.7 seconds to play lifted the Chicago Bulls to a 76-74 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter to rally the Bulls from a 19-point deficit. Coming out of a timeout with the score tied in the final seconds, Deng cut along the baseline and took a feed from Joakim Noah to put Chicago ahead. Atlanta's Joe Johnson shot an airball at the buzzer, giving the Bulls the win. Rose missed a runner with 21 seconds left, but Atlanta's Jeff Teague missed two free throws. Rose then drove past Teague and scored over the Hawks' Josh Smith with 9.9 seconds left to put the Bulls up 74-73. Al Horford, who led the Hawks with 16 points, was fouled and split two free throws with 7.7 seconds remaining. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Oklah.City T. - Portland TB 93-103
Even after losing All-Star Brandon Roy to an injury-induced early retirement, look who's on top of the Western Conference early on this NBA season: The Portland Trail Blazers. LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas) had 30 points and eight rebounds and Portland clamped down on Oklahoma City in the second half to knock the Thunder from the top spot in the West with a 103-93 victory on Tuesday night. The Blazers are the only team in the West without two losses this season. 'We've got a lot of players that can do a lot of different things,' said Wesley Matthews (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette), who added 16 points. 'You can't replace Brandon Roy, with all of the things that he did for this organization and the community itself. But we've got a lot of guys that can play and are willing to.' Gerald Wallace contributed 13 points and 10 rebounds for Portland, which held Oklahoma City to 34 percent shooting in the second half to push ahead on an off night for All-Stars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. The Thunder were held to only 40 points on 13-for-38 shooting in the second half after making 51 percent of their shots and leading most of the first half. 'That's good. That's the way we're capable of playing,' said Raymond Felton, who had 12 points, seven assists and only one turnover. 'I feel like if we play like that every night, or at least try to, we'll have a good season.' James Harden made his sixth career start in place of Thabo Sefolosha (flu-like symptoms) and led the way for the Thunder with 23 points. Westbrook had 22 points on 8-for-18 shooting and Durant finished with 19 points while hitting 8 of 26 shots. Oklahoma City started the season 5-0 before losing for the second straight night. *Courtesy of www.chron.com



Spurs assign Gary Neal to D-League for medical rehab - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have assigned Gary Neal (6'4''-G-84, college: Towson) to the Austin Toros of the NBA Development League for a medical rehab assignment. Neal underwent an appendectomy on December 12, 2011.

Neal enjoyed a successful rookie campaign during the 2010-11 season. He averaged 9.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in 21.1 minutes in 80 games. He led all rookies in three-point field goal percentage, posting a .419 mark, and earned a spot on the 2011 All-Rookie First Team.

Neal will practice with the Toros on Monday and Tuesday of this week and then be re-evaluated by team doctors. At that point, a timeline for his return will be determined.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Phoenix Suns waive center Garret Siler - by Eurobasket News
Garret Siler (7'0''-C-86, college: Augusta St.) played four years of college basketball at Augusta State University. He averaged 12.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game during his four year career, but went undrafted in the 2009 NBA Draft.

After going undrafted, Siler signed with the Utah Flash of the D-League, but ended up playing for the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association during the 2009 season. Siler averaged 14.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, and also led the team in field goal percentage.

Siler came back to the states and played in the NBA Summer League in 2010, hoping to get on with an NBA team. On September 20, he was invited to training camp with the Phoenix Suns, and eventually signed a two year contract with the team. Competing for playing time against Robin Lopez and Marcin Gortat, Siler was never able to crack the Suns rotation during the 2010-2011 season. He appeared sparingly in 21 games, mostly during garbage time once the outcome of the game had already been decided. He averaged 2.1 points and 1.4 rebounds while playing just 4.8 minutes per game.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

Spurs sign forward Ike Diogu - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have signed forward Ike Diogu (6'8''-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.). Per club policy details of the contract were not released.

Diogu, 6-9, 250 pounds, spent last season playing for the L.A. Clippers, He appeared in 36 games, averaging 5.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in 13.1 minutes while shooting .561 (83-148) from the field.

A five-year NBA veteran, Diogu was originally drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the ninth overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. He has also seen action with the Indiana Pacers (2006-08), Portland Trail Blazers (2008-09) and Sacramento Kings (2008-09). For his career Diogu has appeared in 223 games, averaging 6.0 points and 3.1 rebounds in 12.5 minutes.

Diogu will wear No. 1 for the Spurs.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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  NBLCANADA   


Miracles win over the Mill Rats - by Eurobasket News
The Moncton Miracles beat the Saint John Mill Rats at the Moncton Coliseum with a final score of 102-87.

The first quarter ended with the Miracles down 23-19 but the battled back in the second half to take a 50-40 lead.

The Miracles continued to fight hard throughout the rest of the game and were able to build on their lead.

Trayvon Lathan (6'7''-G-84, college: Chowan) was the top scorer for the Miracles with 32 points and 13 rebounds. Antoine Tisby (6'9''-F-83, college: S.Carolina) led the way for the Mill Rats with 21 points and 8 rebounds.

The Miracles play their next game at home against the Summerside Storm on Thursday, January 5th, 2012. Game time is 7:00pm at the Moncton Coliseum.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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  NCAA1   


Fordham beats No. 22 Harvard - by Eurobasket News
Ready or not, the Ivy League mens basketball season begins this weekend. Based on last nights performance, Harvard doesn't appear ready.

Falling behind by double digits for the second straight game, Harvard was knocked off by Fordham, 60-54, last night in front of a boisterous crowd of 2,891.

Ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press poll, Harvard wilted at Rose Hill Gymnasium - the oldest active Division 1 court in America (opened in 1925).

The loss ended Harvards five-game win streak, and the Crimson will take a 12-2 record into their home game against Dartmouth Saturday afternoon.

Fordham (7-6) will open its Atlantic 10 schedule tomorrow evening at Massachusetts.

I think Fordham deserved to win, said Harvard coach Tommy Amaker. Our shooting percentage was horrific, and certainly that had a lot to do with how active and aggressive they were defensively.

If you cant throw it into the ocean sitting out on a rowboat . . .

Harvard shot 20 of 55 (36.4 percent), including 8 for 30 (26.7 percent) behind the 3-point arc, and went to the free throw line only a dozen times, making only half. The Crimson never got into a rhythm on offense, and, unlike their 5-point win over St. Josephs Saturday, they were unable to finish.

Harvard started the second half with a basket to go up by 5 points, but the home squad went sprinting down Fordham Road on a 20-7 run (including 12 straight) to go ahead, 44-34.

It took nine minutes on the scoreboard clock, but Harvard finally pulled even at 50 with 3:17 to play. It would never retake the lead.

Fordham - which beat a top 25 team for the first time since 1978, breaking a 54-game losing streak - made 6 of 6 free throws in the final 1:41 to hold off the Crimson.

And here come the Ivies, ready or not.

We dont have a choice, Amaker said. Weve played a tremendous nonconference schedule, fairly successful throughout. Our conference opponent is up next and hopefully we can get prepared for them.

Guard Brandyn Curry (6'1''-G) led Harvard with 15 points, and forward Keith Wright (6'8''-F) scored 8 and had 11 rebounds.

Wright had the biggest number of the night, scoring his 1,000th point in the second half. But that would be of little consolation on the long bus ride back to campus.

We came out flat, offered senior Oliver McNally. They punched us in the mouth and we couldnt come back. Its really disappointing. Well sulk on the bus ride home and then get back to practice and hopefully turn this around.

Weve been lucky a couple of games. We came back against Boston College and pulled it out against Saint Josephs. We cant be living like that.

Both teams began the game as cold as the Bronx air, shooting 4 of 20 and committing eight turnovers in the first eight minutes. At that point, Harvard held a very ugly 5-4 lead.

Over the next four minutes, the teams traded baskets while the shooting effort rose to 11 of 35. Fordham took its first lead at 11-9 despite turning the ball over six times.

We talked about getting off to a better start that would allow us to get in a better flow, Amaker said. Weve been playing some quality opponents and I think another thing is that teams are going to be geared up to play us.

We have to take responsibility, but its not all on us. You have to give [Fordham] credit for playing inspired basketball.

We got outplayed, but hopefully we dont need a wake-up call.

Harvard came out in the second half looking for its shot but actually wound up shooting worse. It was also looking for its No. 22 ranking.

It didnt find that, either.

Courtesy of http://www.boston.com

Nix helps No. 10 Michigan State beat No. 18 Wisconsin 63-60 in OT - by Eurobasket News
Tom Izzo never actually heard what the officials' final ruling was on Ryan Evans' apparent game-tying 3-pointer.

He just knew the shot didn't count, and Michigan State was walking away with a rare road victory at Wisconsin.

Evans' shot was disallowed after officials looked at a replay and ruled that it left his hand after time expired, allowing the 10th-ranked Spartans to hold on for a 63-60 overtime victory over the 18th-ranked Badgers.

'I don't know what happened at the end,' Izzo said. 'Nor do I care. I thought we played well enough and earned the win, and that's the way I'm going to look at it.'

Draymond Green (6'7''-F-90) had 18 points and 14 rebounds, while Keith Appling (6'1''-G-92) added 16 points for the Spartans (14-2, 3-0 Big Ten), who have won 14 straight.

Jordan Taylor (6'1''-G) scored 28 points for the Badgers (12-4, 1-2), who have lost two straight at home for the first time since the 2008-09 season.

Evans' 3 was overturned when officials ruled he didn't get the shot off in time.

'Everybody was kind of just waiting for the refs to give the signal,' Appling said. 'There (weren't) really too many words said, other than us just looking at the refs trying to figure out if we were going to another overtime or did we win?'

In comments distributed by Wisconsin's sports information staff, referee Pat Driscoll acknowledged that there was some confusion because a clock on a side scoreboard appeared to show 0.2 seconds left when the shot left Evans' hand, while time had expired on the clock above the backboard.

'By rule we have to go by the clock that is on the backboard,' Driscoll said. 'I don't know why there would be different (times) it could be satellite, electronic, whatever but by rule we have to go by the clock that is attached to the backboard. In our review on the monitor, the clock clearly showed zeros while the ball remained in the Wisconsin player's hands.'

Driscoll said officials looked at the replay approximately seven times, also examining whether Evans' foot was on the 3-point line.

Green, who missed a pair of free throws that could have put the game away, said waiting for the ruling was agonizing.

'The feeling for me was awful, but the feeling in the huddle was great because the guys, everybody picked me up -- 'Dray, no matter what, we're still going to win this game,'' said Green. 'They didn't let me be down on myself, although I was. Everybody snatching me, grabbing my jersey, 'Hey, are you OK? If it wasn't for you, we wouldn't be in this position anyway.' That was real comforting.'

Badgers coach Bo Ryan said he tried to sneak a peek at the replay monitor while officials were looking at it but didn't get a good look.

'I haven't broken it down yet,' Ryan said. 'Probably will, though.'

It was another rare home loss and another rough shooting night for the Badgers, who shot poorly from outside in a home loss to Iowa on Saturday.

It was only the Badgers' 14th loss, and eighth conference loss, at home under Ryan.

The Badgers have been overly reliant on streaky outside shooting this season. They were 3 for 28 from 3-point range in the loss to the Hawkeyes.

They certainly made an effort to get the ball inside Tuesday, but still ended up going 5 for 22 from 3-point range.

Izzo said he made some defensive changes.

'We did a lot of things we don't normally do,' Izzo said. 'We switched a little more, we stunted, we did some things to try to stop that 3-point barrage. And thank god for us, one less went in.'

Green hit a pair of free throws to give the Spartans a 54-52 lead early in overtime, but Evans scored inside to tie the game.

After defensive stops on both ends, Brandon Wood drove the lane and passed to Derrick Nix, who scored to give the Spartans a 56-54 lead. Nix then scored again on a putback, putting Michigan State up 58-54 with 1:44 left in overtime.

After a long missed 3-point attempt by Wisconsin's Ben Brust, Appling went to the line and hit one of two free throws for a 59-54 lead with 50 seconds left.

Jared Berggren missed from 3-point range, and Green hit a pair of free throws. Taylor then hit a 3-pointer to cut the Spartans' lead to 61-57 with 22.6 seconds left. Appling hit a pair of free throws but Taylor hit another 3-pointer with just over 10 seconds left.

Green missed two free throws before Evans' desperation 3-pointer at the buzzer appeared to tie it.

Ryan praised Evans for racing to the 3-point line and getting his shot off quickly, a situation they've run in practice.

'But you can't wait until the end of the game to start making shots,' Ryan said.

Izzo said the game was reminiscent of recent memorable clashes between the two schools' football teams.

'I told the team at the beginning, this is a Michigan State-Wisconsin game,' Izzo said. 'In football and basketball, the first overtime is just the way it's supposed to be.'

Courtesy of

UAB gives up 15 3s, falls 79-61 at No. 13 Florida - by Eurobasket News
UAB coach Mike Davis wanted to take on Florida right before conference play -- just to show his team what it looks like to be really good.

The 13th-ranked Gators obliged, hitting a season-high 15 3-pointers in a 79-61 win Tuesday night.

'We needed to play a team like this before conference play just to reconfirm all the things we talked about and how to be a good team,' Davis said. 'To me, this is the best game that we have played so far.'

Quincy Taylor (6'1''-G) led the Blazers (5-8) with 16 points. Cameron Moore (6'10''-F-90) added 15 points. Ovie Soko (6'8''-F-91) chipped in 13 points and 12 rebounds.

UAB led midway through the first half and was dominating the boards. The Blazers held a 21-13 rebounding advantage at halftime, but Florida coach Billy Donovan challenged his team at the break.

The Gators (12-3) were much more aggressive in the second half. The biggest difference, though, was the 3-point line. Florida made 15 of 27 from behind the arc.

'They were giving up 3s tonight,' Donovan said. 'They were going under (screens). They were trying to protect the paint and that was one of those games you've got to take what the defense gives you. We go 15 for 27 and almost half our shots were from behind the 3-point line, but that's what they were forcing us to do.

'I thought with the way they were trying to play defense, they were almost daring us with the way they were guarding pick and rolls to shoot 3s, and it was a game where we shot pretty well from behind the line.'

Florida hit four 3s -- three of them by Boynton -- in a 3-minute span early in the second to push its lead to 21 points.

About the only excitement the rest of the way was a power surge that knocked out lights on both baselines. Donovan and Davis agreed to play through dim conditions in the O'Connell Center.

'Mike said to me, 'I'm OK if you want to end the game right now. We can get out of here early,'' Donovan said.

The Blazers made a small run in the less-than-ideal conditions, cutting the lead to 64-55 with 5:01 to play, but then Boynton and Walker hit back-to-back 3s that made it a 15-point game again.

'We just have to continue to get better,' Davis said. 'Coach Donovan is one of the top five coaches in college basketball. His team and how his guys play is amazing.'

Erving Walker (5'8''-G) scored 23 points for Florida, and Kenny Boynton (6'2''-G-89) added 20.

The win was Florida's final tuneup before beginning Southeastern Conference play Saturday at Tennessee. Donovan feels good about his team, especially if it continues to be balanced inside and out.

Patric Young chipped in 15 points and seven rebounds for the Gators, who won their 14th consecutive home game.

Boynton made 6 of 10 from beyond the arc; Walker hit 7 of 9.

'They went under our guards on the screens,' Young said. 'We're making 11-something 3s per game. It's insane going under our guards.'

Florida played short-handed for the third time in the last five games. Guard Mike Rosario sat out after spraining an ankle in practice. He also missed two games with a back injury.

'We don't need any one person to score,' Walker said. 'Everybody collectively has been doing it for this team, so one person having a bad night or off night, someone else can pick up the slack at any time.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Seton Hall upsets No. 8 Connecticut 75-63 - by Eurobasket News
Before the game, this could have been Seton Hall coachs Kevin Willard's worst nightmare: a minute-and-a-half on the clock against Connecticut, a 20-point differential on the scoreboard and a bench being emptied. But at the end of the night, it was the Pirates handing out the beating, not the defending national champions.

When the 75-63 rout was finally over, the unranked Pirates had their statement win over an eighth-ranked Connecticut team which owned them for the past two decades, and the signature victory that could vault them into the Top 20.

Having just gotten drilled by 26 points at top-ranked Syracuse a week ago today, the Pirates (13-2) got a second straight strong defensive effort employing the 2-3 zone. They held the Huskies to 35 percent shooting, with four starters checking out before Jordan Theodore's (6'0''-G) free throw with 1:32 left, the star of the night leaving after putting them up 75-54.

Yeah [I dreamt it] just the other way around, kind of like I did against Syracuse. That was my dream last night, Willard said with a laugh. I think were getting more national attention. We had [Giants wide receiver] Victor Cruz in the locker room. He wasnt at MSG watching those guys by that I mean the Knicks.

The Pirates had lost 25 of their last 27 to the Huskies, and hadnt beaten Connecticut since March 3, 2001 the same season they were last ranked. But Seton Hall got game-highs of 19 points all in the second half and 11 assists from Theodore to lead four in double figures, and Fuquan Edwin (6'6''-G/F) (12 points, 10 boards, two steals) led a withering defense that throttled the (12-2) Huskies.

It just feels great, said Theodore, who missed all seven of his shots in a scoreless first half before dominating the second. Ive never beaten UConn in my career and Im glad to say we got them out of there.

I knew for us to break this lead out and for me to change the game up, I was going to have to score some points.

Connecticut which had won seven straight and was playing its last game without coach Jim Calhoun , serving an NCAA suspension for recruiting violations jumped ahead 11-2 before Seton Hall closed out the half on a 33-11 run. The Pirates led 45-36 when Theodore hit consecutive 3-pointers to spark a 12-6 run that ended it.

Jeremy Lamb (6'5''-G/F-92) had 19 for the Huskies, but Shabazz Napier (6'0''-G-91) had just six points on 2-of-12 shooting and five turnovers, and center Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93) who told the media Monday I dont even know who Herb Pope [is] saw Seton Halls senior forward finish with 15 points, eight boards and three blocks.

Of course [I saw it], Pope said. I couldnt miss it. I know how to read. At the end of the day, we got the W. Thats all I was concerned with.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Davis leads No. 2 Kentucky to 73-51 win over UALR - by Eurobasket News
Chuck Guy went to the locker room believing Arkansas-Little Rock was poised to take down No. 2 Kentucky after outplaying the Wildcats over the first 20 minutes. The Trojans couldn't handle what came next.

Kentucky freshman Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93) had 22 points and 16 rebounds, and the No. 2 Wildcats overcame a slow start with a big run that put away Arkansas-Little Rock 73-51 on Tuesday night.

'I expected us to win it,' said Guy, who finished with 19 points. 'It didn't turn out like that, but we played as hard as we could.'

Kentucky (14-1) used a 23-1 run to storm past the undermanned Trojans (5-11) after the Wildcats trailed 34-31 with 16:11 left.

Davis' layup changed the lead for the eighth and final time just over a minute later. Freshman Michael Gilchrist (6'7''-F-93) hit a 3-pointer, Davis added a jumper, and Miller made a 3 to join the 1,000-point club and give Kentucky a 45-35 edge with 11 minutes left.

It was 54-35 after Doron Lamb's layup with 8:35 to go. UALR went nearly 10 minutes between field goals before Courtney Jackson's layup.

'They picked it up a lot on defense in the second half,' Trojans center D'Andre Williams (5'10''-G) said. 'It was more intense. You can really tell. You could feel the pressure.'

UALR made the NCAA tournament last season, but graduated its top three scorers, including Sun Belt Conference player of the year Solomon Bozeman. Will Neighbour had picked up some of that void, averaging 18.3 points and eight rebounds over the last two weeks, but he injured his right shoulder in the final minute of a win at Denver.

Even with Neighbour out, UALR took it right to the Wildcats early, despite being a 28-point underdog. Williams scored 11 points, and Jackson added 11 rebounds.

'That was a big concern without Will, he's a man,' Williams said. 'But you've got to believe.'

Darius Miller (6'8''-G-90) finished with 15 points and Terrence Jones added 10 for the Wildcats. Kidd-Michael Gilchrist grabbed 10 rebounds in 31 minutes despite playing with a chest injury.

Guy dove over the Trojans' bench into the second row to unsuccessfully save a loose ball, then nailed consecutive 3-pointers in the closing minutes of the first half.

After the sophomore's second, he held three fingers out and pumped his hands in joy as he gave UALR a 30-25 lead, its biggest of the game. The Trojans held a 30-27 lead at halftime, but Davis and the rest of the Wildcats made sure it wouldn't last long.

'Our guys played with great effort with Will,' UALR coach Steve Shields said. 'We certainly missed Will not being here, but we had some guys who stepped up. As we tell our guys, every team's success is determined by how they handle adversity.'

Courtesy of www.wsmv.com

No. 7 Missouri routs Oklahoma 87-49 - by Eurobasket News
Oklahoma didn't see this coming.

After a strong showing through their nonconference schedule, the Sooners were outmatched Tuesday night at No. 7 Missouri, falling 87-49 in the Big 12 opener for both teams.

Oklahoma knew it hadn't faced a team like the Tigers this season, but that didn't make the outcome any less surprising.

'They knocked us on our heels, and we didn't respond very well,' coach Lon Kruger said.

Andrew Fitzgerald (6'8''-F) led the Sooners (10-3, 0-1) with 18 points and six rebounds, scoring all but two in the first half. Oklahoma now has a pair of blowout losses against Missouri schools, falling by 20 points against Saint Louis in November. The third loss was by a point to Cincinnati.

Oklahoma had entered the night holding opponents to 59 points per game in its last seven contests, but the Sooners were the team struggling to score Tuesday. The team shot only 33.3 percent from the field, resulting in its lowest scoring output of the season. Contrast that with the Tigers' 59.3 percent, and it's easy to see how Missouri won easily.
Kim English had 23 points and nine rebounds, and Marcus Denmon added 20 for Missouri (14-0, 1-0), which was 12 for 21 from 3-point range, held the Sooners to 33 percent shooting and outrebounded them 38-23.

Oklahoma hoped for some easy baskets facing a four-guard lineup, but failed to capitalize on its Big 12-leading 42.2 rebounds per game.

'We just didn't give it the best effort that we had,' guard Sam Grooms (6'1''-G) said. 'We have to go back to the woodshed and just get better.'

Even though his team suffered its worst loss against Missouri since 1922, Grooms insisted the loss wouldn't shake the team's confidence.

'It takes a game like this to hit you in the mouth, to make you think about what you could have done, what you could have been better at on the court,' Grooms said. 'So confidence level will still be the same.'

Missouri is one of four unbeaten teams in the nation under first-year coach Frank Haith - and the Tigers' start is their best since the1981-82 team was 19-0.
After Tuesday's games, four of the 345 Division I teams remain unbeaten.

Ricardo Ratliffe (6'8''-F) added 13 points and eight rebounds, and reserve Michael Dixon (6'1''-G-90) had 13 points for Missouri.

Steven Pledger (6'4''-G) scored 11 points for Oklahoma, but on 3-for-10 shooting with just three points in the first half while Missouri took a commanding 43-25 lead. Oklahoma has lost six of its last seven conference openers.

The Sooners were picked to finish in a tie for last in the Big 12 by coaches but entered the game among the national leaders in rebounding, offensive rebounds and 3-point percentage.

Take out Fitzgerald's 16-point half and Oklahoma was just 4 for 19 from the field. Pledger was held to three points on 1-for-7 shooting for the Sooners, who shot 35 percent and whose halftime deficit doubled their previous high.

Oklahoma was just 3 for 13 to start the game, falling behind by 10 the first 6:13. Six points from Fitzgerald in a span of 1:16 shaved the deficit to four at 20-16. Missouri answered with a 10-2 run capped by Denmon's 3-pointer with just under 7 minutes to go, and pulled away the rest of the half.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com <<>><<>>

Nebraska can't stay with Ohio State in 71-40 loss - by Eurobasket News
With three top players injured and a brutal early schedule, coach Doc Sadler is just hoping he can shepherd Nebraska through this rough patch.

'As I said back in Nebraska, the thing that's the hardest thing to do right now is probably convince your fans and your players that something down the road is going to be better,' Sadler said after his Cornhuskers came out on the wrong side of a 71-40 loss at No. 6 Ohio State on Tuesday night.

Toney McCray (6'6''-G-89) had 13 points, Brandon Richardson (6'0''-G-88) 11 and Bo Spencer 10 for Nebraska (8-6, 0-3 Big Ten), which was playing its first Big Ten road game.

'We knew we were coming in here to play an awfully good basketball team; that wasn't a surprise,' Sadler said. 'They're so long and physical. I don't know if it was just us, but I thought it was their best defensive game they've played in terms of intensityand they sustained it.'

The Cornhuskers were outrebounded 44-21 and had more turnovers (17) than field goals (16).

Spencer came in leading the Cornhuskers in scoring at 15.1 points a game (24.3 in three road games). But he, like the rest of his teammates, never came close to competing with the Buckeyes.

Nebraska was without two of its top scorers for the fifth consecutive game: 6-foot-11 Jorge Brian Diaz is out with chronic foot soreness, and junior-college transfer Dylan Talley has been sidelined by a thigh injury. The Cornhuskers are also missing 6-11 Andre Almeida.

Sadler said he didn't know if any of the three would return from their injuries this season.

The Cornhuskers have had the most difficult early-season schedule in the Big Ten, with home games against No. 11 Wisconsin (a 64-40 loss) and No. 16 Michigan State (a 68-55 defeat) before coming to Ohio State. Those are also the top three teams in the preseason Big Ten poll.

Ohio State coach Thad Matta recognizes what Nebraska is up against.

'It is challenging, coming into a league where we all have a feel for what teams are trying to do, and players. This being their first year, it's obviously a tremendous challenge for them,' Matta said. 'We've played some of these teams twice or three times in a season. (Nebraska's coaches) are probably looking at scouting saying, 'Now, who's this guys? Who's this guy?' But that's part of the change in the league.'

They played good defenseforcing 19 Ohio State turnoversbut had 17 turnovers of their own and shot just 31 percent from the field.

Offense is the biggest concern, obviously.

'We've got to find a way to get better offensively,' Sadler said. 'Because if we can't get into the mid-60s (in points), we're not going to win many games in this league. I don't care how good we play defensively.'

For Ohio State (14-2, 2-1), Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F) had 19 points and 12 rebounds, Deshaun Thomas added 15 points and William Buford (6'6''-G) 13. The Buckeyes shook off a painful loss at No. 12 Indiana on Saturday.

The Cornhuskers got out to a miserable start. From a 4-all tie, Ohio State ran off the next 13 points while Nebraska was continually turning the ball over. During one span, the Huskers had turnovers on four consecutive possessions.

Five players scored in the 13-0 run for the Buckeyes, with Buford hitting two baskets and Lenzelle Smith Jr. adding a 3-pointer.

Ohio State never trailed again.

'I don't know that we were much of a test,' Sadler said. 'The bottom line is it just wasn't much of a contest for them tonight.'

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

Syracuse No. 1 for fourth straight week in AP poll - by Eurobasket News
Syracuse is No. 1 in The Associated Press' Top 25 for a fourth straight week and Pittsburgh is out of the poll for the first time since the middle of 2009-10.

The Orange received 60 first-place votes from the 65-member national media panel. Kentucky, which moved up one spot to second, got the other five.

North Carolina, Baylor and Duke all jumped two places to third through fifth. Ohio State dropped from second to sixth after losing at Indiana. Missouri, Connecticut, Georgetown and Michigan State round out the top 10.

Louisville, which lost to Georgetown and Kentucky, dropped from fourth to 11th.

No. 23 Kansas State and No. 25 Gonzaga enter the rankings on six-game winning streaks. Creighton fell out from 21st. Pittsburgh, losers of three straight, dropped out from 22nd.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Top 25 - Men
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Syracuse 13-0
 2. Duke 10-0
 3. Connecticut 12-2
 4. Seton Hall 13-2
 5. Baylor 14-0
 6. Gonzaga 14-2
 7. Kentucky 14-1
 8. Michigan St. 15-2
 9. Ohio St. 14-2
 10. Georgetown 14-0
 11. UNLV 15-2
 12. N.Carolina 11-0
 13. Louisville 12-4
 14. Long Beach St. 7-6
 15. Indiana 13-1
 16. Murray St. 14-0
 17. S.Mississippi 12-2
 18. Alabama 10-2
 19. Minnesota 13-2
 20. Marquette 10-2
 21. Creighton 12-2
 22. Harvard 11-2
 23. N.Iowa 10-3
 24. St.Mary's, CA 13-2
 25. Illinois 6-6


Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Tony GALLO
  Coppin St.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Gallo, Coppin St.18.2 
 2. Pellum, Hampton18.1 
 3. Riley, S.Caroli.17.3 
 4. Clement, N.C.Cent.15.9 
 5. Sutton, N.C.Central15.9 
 6. Tate, Delaware St.15.4 
 7. Willis, N.C.Cent.14.9 
 8. O''Quinn, Norfolk14.8 
 9. Thompson, Morgan13.6 
 10. Ellis, Coppin St.13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kyle O''QUINN
  Norfolk .
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. O''Quinn, Norfolk10.1 
 2. Bruce, Hampton8.7 
 3. Thompson, Morgan8.4 
 4. Sutton, N.C.Central7.6 
 5. Williams, Coppin S.7.1 
 6. Oliver, Delaware S.6.8 
 7. Sanders, S.Caroli.6.7 
 8. Phillips, Howard6.7 
 9. Louis, Savannah S.6.6 
 10. Crowder, Florida6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Emanuel CHAPMAN
  N.C.Cent.
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Chapman, N.C.Cent.6.8 
 2. Threatt, Delaware.5.1 
 3. Blackmon, Savanna.4.9 
 4. Tuitt, Hampton4.4 
 5. Gallo, Coppin St.4.0 
 6. Hill, N..3.9 
 7. Ellis, Coppin St.3.8 
 8. Toombs, S.Caroli.3.6 
 9. Woods, Md-E Shore3.5 
 10. Frazier, Howard3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jay THREATT
  Delaware.
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Threatt, Delaware.2.5 
 2. Sutton, N.C.Central2.5 
 3. Jackson, Morgan S.1.9 
 4. Willis, N.C.Cent.1.7 
 5. Tolson, Hampton1.7 
 6. Tuitt, Hampton1.6 
 7. Powell, N.Car.1.6 
 8. Andrews, Howard1.6 
 9. Ali, Morgan St.1.5 
 10. Woods, Md-E Shore1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Kendall GRAY
  Delaware St.
  (208-C-)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Gray, Delaware St.3.5 
 2. O''Quinn, Norfolk2.7 
 3. Sanders, S.Caroli.1.9 
 4. Agbelese, Hampton1.9 
 5. Crowder, Florida1.8 
 6. Chiles, Morgan St.1.7 
 7. Oliver, Delaware S.1.5 
 8. Smith, Savannah.1.4 
 9. Thompson, Morgan1.3 
 10. McEachin, Norfolk1.2 


*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Both Alaska-Anchorage and Western Washington Ranked In Top 25 - by Sanjey Noriega
From: gnacsports.com

Alaska Anchorage is ranked 18th and Western Washington is 23rd in this week's NABC Division II men's basketball national poll.

The Seawolves (9-2), who have won nine straight, climbed two positions in this week's poll, while the Vikings (12-2) debuted in the poll after being among 'others receiving votes' in the pre-Christmas rankings.

Cal Poly Pomona (8-0), which is one of eight remaining unbeaten teams in the poll, is the top ranked West Region team and is sixth in the national poll.

Western Oregon and Humboldt State are among 'others receiving votes' this week and are tied for 35th with two ballot points.

Alaska Anchorage travels to Billings to take on Montana State Billings Thursday, while Western Washington hosts Saint Martin's before taking on Western Oregon Saturday.

Viking coach Brad Jackson will be seeking his 500th career win in Thursday's contest.

Jackson would become the fifth college coach in state history to win 500 games with a victory Thursday joining Marv Harshman (Pacific Lutheran, Washington State, Washington); Dean Nicholson (Central Washington), Hec Edmundson (Washington) and Leo Nicholson (Central Washington).


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


Spurs sign forward Ike Diogu - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have signed forward Ike Diogu (6'8''-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.). Per club policy details of the contract were not released.

Diogu, 6-9, 250 pounds, spent last season playing for the L.A. Clippers, He appeared in 36 games, averaging 5.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in 13.1 minutes while shooting .561 (83-148) from the field.

A five-year NBA veteran, Diogu was originally drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the ninth overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. He has also seen action with the Indiana Pacers (2006-08), Portland Trail Blazers (2008-09) and Sacramento Kings (2008-09). For his career Diogu has appeared in 223 games, averaging 6.0 points and 3.1 rebounds in 12.5 minutes.

Diogu will wear No. 1 for the Spurs.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


2011 PBA Philippine Cup Semifinals: Painters Take Game 1 - by Enzo Flojo
RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over POWERADE TIGERS, 114-97
Paul Lee led a major second half explosion by Rain or Shine for a win over Powerade at the start of their PBA Philippine Cup semifinals duel at the Cuneta Astrodome. Lee scored 22 of his new career-high 25 points in the second half and had able support as the Elasto Painters shook off the Tigers' sterling start and another big scoring night from Gary David to gain the head start in the best-of-seven duel.

David finished with 30 points and JV Casio wound up with 12 points and 9 assists, but Marcio Lassiter had a career-low 2 points on 1-for-7 shooting and the Tigers, as a whole, gave up 71 second half points that equaled the season record.

Jeffrei Chan actually led Rain or Shine in scoring with 27 points and was chief among those who helped Lee bring the team back from as much as a 44-59 deficit. Larry Rodriguez added a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds and the Painters used 12 steals to offset some atrocious free-throw shooting that netted them only 19 charities out of 37 tries.

Starting for only the fifth time in his career, Lee was limited to a lone triple in the first half, but he started finding his touch in the third quarter when he scored seven points and exploded for the first eight points of the E-Painters in the fourth to give them an 86-78 spread.


ROS 114 - Chan 27, Lee 25, Rodriguez 16, Belga 9, Arana 8, Cruz 7, Quinahan 6, Ibanes 5, Tang 4, Norwood 3, Buenafe 2.
POW 97 - David 30, Lingganay 12, Vanlandingham 12, Casio 12, Anthony 8, Kramer 8, Adducul 6, Antonio 5, Lassiter 2, Crisano 2, Cruz 0.
QS: 25-29, 43-45, 78-76, 114-97

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


2011 PBA Philippine Cup Semifinals: Painters Take Game 1 - by Enzo Flojo
RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over POWERADE TIGERS, 114-97
Paul Lee (191-G) led a major second half explosion by Rain or Shine for a win over Powerade at the start of their PBA Philippine Cup semifinals duel at the Cuneta Astrodome. Lee scored 22 of his new career-high 25 points in the second half and had able support as the Elasto Painters shook off the Tigers' sterling start and another big scoring night from Gary David (187-G/F-78) to gain the head start in the best-of-seven duel.

David finished with 30 points and JV Casio wound up with 12 points and 9 assists, but Marcio Lassiter had a career-low 2 points on 1-for-7 shooting and the Tigers, as a whole, gave up 71 second half points that equaled the season record.

Jeffrei Chan (191-F-83) actually led Rain or Shine in scoring with 27 points and was chief among those who helped Lee bring the team back from as much as a 44-59 deficit. Larry Rodriguez added a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds and the Painters used 12 steals to offset some atrocious free-throw shooting that netted them only 19 charities out of 37 tries.

Starting for only the fifth time in his career, Lee was limited to a lone triple in the first half, but he started finding his touch in the third quarter when he scored seven points and exploded for the first eight points of the E-Painters in the fourth to give them an 86-78 spread.

ROS 114 - Chan 27, Lee 25, Rodriguez 16, Belga 9, Arana 8, Cruz 7, Quinahan 6, Ibanes 5, Tang 4, Norwood 3, Buenafe 2.
POW 97 - David 30, Lingganay 12, Vanlandingham 12, Casio 12, Anthony 8, Kramer 8, Adducul 6, Antonio 5, Lassiter 2, Crisano 2, Cruz 0.
QS: 25-29, 43-45, 78-76, 114-97

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



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


Standings - 1 Liga
1Liga Standings
 1. Sokol Lancut 11-4 
 2. MKS DG 11-4 
 3. Start Gdynia 11-4 
 4. Spojnia 10-5 
 5. SKK Siedlce 9-6 
 6. P.Cukier SIDEn 9-6 
 7. Rosa Radom 9-6 
 8. AZS Kutno 8-7 
 9. Polonia 8-7 
 10. Znicz Basket 7-7 
 11. Start Lublin 7-8 
 12. AZS Szczecin 6-9 
 13. MOSiR Krosno 2-13 
 14. Sportino 2-13 
 15. Sudety 2-13 


Asseco Prokom fell at 3-5 record - by Eurobasket News
Asseco Prokom fell at 3-5 record at VTB league after the loss in Russia. Enisey Krasnoyarsk smashed Asseco Prokom 102:79 to tie both records.
The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 20-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 102:79. Asseco Prokom was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch Lonny Baxter (204-C-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Maryland) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Marko Marinovic (183-PG-83) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Donatas Motiejunas (213-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances) replied with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Jerel Blassingame (175-G-81, college: UNLV) added 14 points and 6 assists in the effort for Asseco Prokom.
Enisey Krasnoyarsk moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Asseco Prokom. The latter will face Ukrainian Azovmash on January 7th in their next game. Azovmash is with 4-4 record in the group.


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


Barreirense will be in Angola - by Bruno Baltazar
Barreirense CEPSA the portuguese team was invited to come to Benguela,Angola to participate in the next February the 3rd and 4th the tournament name is the International tournament 4th of February,besides Barreirense CEPSA ,the other teams are 1 de Agosto ,coached by the portuguese coach Mario Palma, Interclube de Luanda coached by Jose Carlos Guimaraes ( former athlet of Benfica and Porto) and the provincial selection team will be the complete list of teams in this tournament!

Antonio Liborio ,Barreirense CEPSA manager told us that its a great honor to the portuguese team to participate and being invited to this tournament ,its a sign that teams outside Portugal recognize the team work by them,this year the work is being specially recognized due to their campaign so far in the portuguese league.
Barreirense CEPSA is the 3rd team in the portuguese basketball with more history in terms of wins and trophies and right now they are in 4th place in the league,Liborio also said that he is aware of the risk of a trip to outside the country in the middle of the season but he also thinks thats the only way to add more experience to their young roster ,giving them international experience making them better,all of the portuguese players in the team represented the national team and 4 already played for the higher of the portuguese NT team.

The team coached by Antonio Herrera will meet in the first game the Benguela selection,the next day the games will be splitted by the winners and losers of the previous day ,all games will be on television,strategy to give more recognition to the portuguese project,games will be played in the Acacias Rubras arena,same place that 10 days later will host the 1st phase of the Supercup Compal between Porto,CAB,Petro,Recriativo do Libolo,1 de Agosto and Maxaquene of Mozambique.
Barreirense CEPSA was also autorized to delay the game that was supposed to be February the 5th to Feb.19th against Academica.

The portuguese team will also participate in schools and other projects in the comunity in Angola when they arrive to the country,making it a social project as well in Benguela,Antonio Liborio also said he is more then happy to participate in recieving/hosting and interchanging possibilities not only sports wise but also cultural since they are a embassor of the city of Barreiro in Portugal as well.Their coach will also participate in a clinic for coaches there,their phisioteraupist will also speak on other ocasions,referees the same ,so it will be a chance to change ideas and open relations between both countries and both competitions that are still like a lost brother and sister in terms of countries and relations.

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


CS Otopeni withdrew from the League - by Eurobasket News
CS Otopeni withdrew from the League. The team finished the year 2011 with 4-11 record but due to the financial problems can not continue any more.
In their last game Otopeni edged Craiova 74:67. Craiova was ahead by 5 points after three quarters before a 20-8 charge of Otopeni, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. It was a good game for Spanish forward Angel Santana who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Center Bogdan Tibirna contributed with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 blocks for the winners.
It was announced yesterday that one of the foreign players appeared in the practice of another team. CSU Atlassib Sibiu eye Cortney Scott for the rest of the season. The American player practiced with his new Romanian team.




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


CSKA, Enisey and Novgorod start year 2012 successfully - by Eurobasket News
CSKA, Enisey and Novgorod start year 2012 successfully with the victories in VTB League.
BC Nizhny Novgorod crushed 9th ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn 92:69 on Wednesday. Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds. Semen Antonov (202-F-89) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
CSKA Moscow blasted bottom-ranked Minsk-2006 96:52 on Wednesday evening. CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86, agency: RIZO) notched 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and Alexey Shved supported him with 15 points.
Enisey Krasnoyarsk smashed Asseco Prokom 102:79. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 20-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game. Lonny Baxter (204-C-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Maryland) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Marko Marinovic (183-PG-83) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Donatas Motiejunas (213-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances) replied with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds.



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


D1 Standings
Premier League Standings
 1. Al Ahli 2-0 
 2. Al Fath 2-0 
 3. Al Ittihad 2-0 
 4. Uhud 2-0 
 5. Al Hilal 1-0 
 6. Al Ansar 0-0 
 7. Al Jubail 0-1 
 8. Al Nahdha 0-1 
 9. Al Qadisiya 0-1 
 10. Al Kweldeeh 0-2 
 11. Al Safa 0-2 
 12. Al Wehda 0-2 


Back in KSA - by Rashad Woods
First I would like to thank my LORD and Savior for allowing me this opportunity to come back to Saudi Arabia for my second season. It feels good to be with my same team Al Nahda for the second yr. A recap from last season we finished 5th in the league and we make some many improvements as a team. This season we will have to work harder and smarter because we are missing a few guys from last season. I've been looking forward for this season for a few months now because I want to win more games this yr and make sure we are in a better standing from last yr. GOD willing everything will work its course. Tomorrow we have a game AL Ansar which is a strong team, but if we come to play tomorrow as a team it could go either way. I will Blog more this season so stay tuned guys....

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


Partizan signs Davis Bertans until 2015 - by Eurobasket News
Davis Bertans (205-F-92) is a new member of Partizan Belgrade. The Latvian prospect penned a deal until the end of the 2014/15 season. Bertans parted ways with Union Olimpija recently. He played 13 games for them in Adriatic league averaging 4.2 points and 1.5 rebounds. He also appeared ten times in Euroleague adding 3 ppg and 2.2 rpg. Davis Bertans joined Union Olimpija in November of 2010. He played for Daugavas Sporta Nams and BA Keizarmezs Riga before that. Bertans played for the Lithuanian NT last summer at the EuroBasket 2011. He had 5.6 ppg and 2 rpg for 5 games. At the NBA draft last year he was selected as 42nd overall pick by the Indiana Pacers.

Miladin Pekovic signs in Romania, Targu Mures - by Eurobasket News
Miladin Pekovic (196-G/F-83, agency: BeoExcell) will continue his career in Romania. The Serbian G/SF penned a deal with Targu Mures for rest of the season. Pekovic started it with Proleter Naftagas. He appeared 10 times in Serbian league averaging 16.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists. Miladin Pekovic spent last season on Cyprus. He was a member of Keravnos Nicosia. He played 15 games for them in Cypriot league registering 7.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg. In 2009/10, Pekovic played for German Trier. He spent two seasons with Oldenburg before that and helped them win the German league title in 2009. Miladin Pekovic played for Mega Ishrana and Ergonom in the past. He also was a member of Lavovi, Beobanka and Partizan youth teams.

*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Dongbu Promy 27-7 
 2. Anyang KGC 25-9 
 3. Sonic Boom KT 22-11 
 4. KCC Egis 21-13 
 5. ET Land 17-16 
 6. Mobis Phoebus 15-18 
 7. LG Sakers 14-20 
 8. SK Knights 13-21 
 9. Daegu Orions 8-25 
 10. Samsung Th. 6-28 


Cho scores 20 as KT roll past SK 80-53 - by Jeff Liebsch
Cho Dong-Hyun (188-G-76) scored 20 points to lead the KT Sonic Boom to an easy 80-53 win over the Seoul SK Knights Wednesday night in Busan.

Charles Rhodes (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) added 16 points and 11 rebounds, and KT outrebounded SK 33-19 for the game. Ten KT players scored in the game, as the 27 point margin was SK's most lopsided loss of the season.

SK, who had won two of their last three games, were thoroughly embarrassed in the game, as KT controlled the entire game, running up a 40-19 halftime lead. SK only managed 7 points in the first quarter, and KT held SK to 29% from the field in the first half, while shooting 59%, including 74% from inside the three.

KT ran on cruise control for the third and fourth quarters, and still managed to outscore SK 40-34, led by Cho's pair of three pointers in his 10 point third quarter.

Cho Sung-Min (197-F-83) also added 10 points for KT, while Amal McCaskill scored 14 for SK and added 9 rebounds.

Game Notes: SK's worst defeat of the season before tonight was a 92-66 opening night loss to KCC. SK is 2-10 since Alexander Johnson (208-F-83, college: Florida St.) has been injured. SK shot 30% for the game. KT has a 13-5 record at home this season.

KBL Round 36: Anyang KGC beats KCC Egis in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Anyang. Second ranked Anyang KGC faced 4th ranked KCC Egis. Host Anyang KGC (25-9) defeated guests from Jeonju (21-13) 70-54. The game without a history. Anyang KGC led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Anyang KGC made 7 blocks. The best player for the winners was American power forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) who scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Jung-Hyun Lee (190-87) chipped in 15 points. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward DeShawn Sims (203-88, college: Michigan) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds. KCC Egis' coach Jae Hur rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Anyang KGC maintains second position with 25-9 record having just two points less than leader Dongbu Promy. KCC Egis at the other side keep the fourth place with 13 games lost. Anyang KGC are looking forward to face Sonic Boom KT (#3) in Busan in the next round, which may be the game of the day. KCC Egis will have a break next round.
The game in Ulsan was also worth to mention about. 5th ranked ET Land Elephants (17-16) played at the court of sixth ranked Mobis Phoebus (15-18). Mobis Phoebus defeated ET Land Elephants 79-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of ET Land Elephants. It was a good game for American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds. Dong-Geun Yang contributed with 23 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds for ET Land Elephants. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion maintains sixth position with 15-18 record. ET Land Elephants at the other side keep the fifth place with 16 games lost. Mobis Phoebus will play against league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. ET Land Elephants will play at home against Daegu Orions (#9) and hope to get back on the winning track.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Busan. Local Sonic Boom KT (22-11) outscored 7th ranked SK Knights (13-21) 80-53 on Wednesday night. Worth to mention a quality performance of Charles Rhodes who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was playernamefromunbr with 14 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. Sonic Boom KT have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 22-11 record having six points less than leader Dongbu Promy. Loser SK Knights dropped to the eighth place with 21 games lost. Sonic Boom KT will meet at home league's second-placed Anyang KGC in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. SK Knights will play against LG Sakers (#7) in Changwon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 36 bottom-ranked Samsung Th. were defeated by LG Sakers in Changwon 94-76.
The best stats of 36th round was 42 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds by Ira Clark of Samsung Th..


LG Sakers - Samsung Th. 94-76

There was no surprise in Changwon where 10th ranked Samsung Thunders (6-28) were defeated by eighth ranked LG Sakers (14-20) 94-76 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 44-24 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. LG Sakers made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Hyun-Joong Kim (178-81) who added 20 points and 8 assists during the contest. Five LG Sakers players scored in double figures. LG Sakers' coach Jin Kim used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) with a double-double by scoring 42 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds and international power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) scored 12 points and 8 rebounds. LG Sakers moved-up to seventh place. Samsung Thunders lost sixth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 28 lost games. LG Sakers will meet SK Knights (#8) in the next round. Samsung Thunders will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 21+3reb+4ast, H.Kim 20+2reb+8ast, H.Byun 17+4reb+3ast, A.Haynes 17+11reb+4ast, I.Baek 15+4reb+1ast, C.Song 4+2reb
Samsung Th.: I.Clark 42+11reb+2ast, W.Lee 12+3reb+1ast, E.Sandrin 12+8reb+3ast, B.Lee 5+1reb+2ast, J.Park 3+1reb, S.Kim 2+2reb+2ast
gschID: 145780


Anyang KGC - KCC Egis 70-54

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Anyang. Second ranked Anyang KGC faced 4th ranked KCC Egis. Host Anyang KGC (25-9) defeated guests from Jeonju (21-13) 70-54. The game without a history. Anyang KGC led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Anyang KGC made 7 blocks. The best player for the winners was American power forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) who scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Jung-Hyun Lee (190-87) chipped in 15 points. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward DeShawn Sims (203-88, college: Michigan) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and international center Seung-Jin Ha (221-85) added 13 points and 9 rebounds respectively. KCC Egis' coach Jae Hur rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Anyang KGC maintains second position with 25-9 record having just two points less than leader Dongbu Promy. KCC Egis at the other side keep the fourth place with 13 games lost. Anyang KGC are looking forward to face Sonic Boom KT (#3) in Busan in the next round, which may be the game of the day. KCC Egis will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Anyang KGC: R.White 15+8reb+3ast, J.Lee 15+4reb+3ast, S.Oh 10+7reb+2ast, C.Park 9+6reb+2ast, T.Kim 9+5reb+6ast, S.Kim 8+5reb+2ast
KCC Egis: D.Sims 20+13reb+1ast, S.Ha 13+9reb+1ast, T.Akins 7+2reb+2ast, T.Kim 7+3reb, J.Lim 4+6reb+2ast, M.Jeong 3+1reb
gschID: 145777


Mobis Phoebus - ET Land 79-67

The game in Ulsan was also worth to mention about. 5th ranked ET Land Elephants (17-16) played at the court of sixth ranked Mobis Phoebus (15-18). Mobis Phoebus defeated ET Land Elephants 79-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of ET Land Elephants. The game was mostly controlled by Mobis Phoebus. ET Land Elephants was better in second period 19-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds. The former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (181-81) contributed with 23 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds and international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) added 18 points in the effort for ET Land Elephants. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion maintains sixth position with 15-18 record. ET Land Elephants at the other side keep the fifth place with 16 games lost. Mobis Phoebus will play against league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. ET Land Elephants will play at home against Daegu Orions (#9) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Mobis Phoebus: T.Leather 26+19reb, D.Yang 23+4reb+6ast, J.Park 12+2reb+2ast, G.Park 8+1reb+4ast, D.Kim 5+1ast, C.Song 4+1reb+1ast
ET Land: H.Hill 23+13reb+1ast, T.Moon 18+4reb+3ast, H.Kang 10+3reb+2ast, B.Chung 8+3reb+1ast, N.Ham 4, H.Lee 2+4reb+2ast
gschID: 145778


Sonic Boom KT - SK Knights 80-53

The game with biggest result difference took place in Busan. Local Sonic Boom KT (22-11) outscored 7th ranked SK Knights (13-21) 80-53 on Wednesday night. The game without a history. Sonic Boom KT led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding SK Knights to just 7 points in first quarter. Sonic Boom KT dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to SK Knights' 30. Sonic Boom KT had a 33-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a quality performance of American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and guard Dong-Hyun Cho (188-76) who added 20 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was playernamefromunbr with 14 points and 9 rebounds and forward Joon-Young Son (194-79) scored 11 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Sonic Boom KT have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 22-11 record having six points less than leader Dongbu Promy. Loser SK Knights dropped to the eighth place with 21 games lost. Sonic Boom KT will meet at home league's second-placed Anyang KGC in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. SK Knights will play against LG Sakers (#7) in Changwon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sonic Boom KT: D.Cho 20+2reb+2ast, C.Rhodes 16+11reb, S.Cho 10+3reb+1ast, H.Kim 8+3reb, D.Kim 6+4reb+4ast, Y.Song 6+2reb
SK Knights: playernamefromunbr 14+9reb+1ast, J.Son 11+4reb+1ast, J.Han 8+4reb, S.Lee 6+3reb+4ast, H.Lee 4+1reb, S.Hwang 3+3reb+3ast
gschID: 145779




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


Unicaja release Saul Blanco - by Eurobasket News
Saul Blanco (195-G/F-85) is no longer the player of Unicaja Malaga. The sides have reached an agreement on terms of contract termination. The guard joined Unicaja back in 2009. Saul Blanco posted 2.9 points and 0.9 rebounds per Euroleague game this season. In ABC his stats read 1.8 points and 1.3 boards per appearance. Previously the guard had stints with Farho Gijon and Fuenlabrada. Saul Blanco was the member of Spanish U16, U20 and National Teams.


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Panko, Lagun A.18.8 
 2. Davis, Cajasol17.1 
 3. Teletovic, Caja L.16.9 
 4. Fernandez, Real M.16.1 
 5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada15.9 
 6. Penney, Fuenlabra.15.6 
 7. Wright, CAI Z.15.5 
 8. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.14.6 
 9. Doellman, Assignia14.6 
 10. Caner-Medley, Val.14.5 
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. Teletovic, Caja L.8.3 
 5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada8.1 
 6. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.8.0 
 7. Freeland, Unicaja7.2 
 8. Baez, FIATC J.6.9 
 9. Ndong, FCB Regal6.9 
 10. Reyes, Real Madrid6.6 
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. Huertas, FCB Regal3.9 
 6. Oliver, FIATC J.3.8 
 7. Colom, Fuenlabrada3.7 
 8. Llull, Real Madrid3.7 
 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.1.9 
 3. Doellman, Assignia1.7 
 4. Barnes, Lucentum1.7 
 5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.6 
 6. De Colo, Valencia1.6 
 7. Davis, Cajasol1.5 
 8. Eidson, FCB Regal1.5 
 9. Rodriguez, Assigni.1.5 
 10. Williams, FIATC J.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Real Madrid
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ibaka, Real Madrid2.0 
 2. Fischer, Gescrap BB2.0 
 3. Lasme, Blusens M.1.8 
 4. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.7 
 5. Toure, B.de R.1.5 
 6. Begic, Real Madrid1.3 
 7. Baez, FIATC J.1.3 
 8. Landry, Assignia.1.2 
 9. Asselin, Assignia1.2 
 10. Seraphin, Caja L.1.2 


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. Real Madrid 11-3 
 2. Caja Laboral 11-3 
 3. Unicaja 11-3 
 4. FCB Regal 11-3 
 5. Lucentum 11-3 
 6. CAI Zaragoza 7-6 
 7. Cajasol 7-7 
 8. Valencia 7-7 
 9. Lagun Aro GBC 6-8 
 10. Fuenlabrada 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. UCAM Murcia 4-9 
 17. Blusens M. 4-10 
 18. B.de Rueda V. 3-11 


Pau Ribas three weeks out - by Eurobasket News
Pau Ribas (193-PG-87) will miss next three weeks of action due to injury. The 24-year-old point guard of Caja Laboral sprained his right wrist. Ribas averages 6.7 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists in Liga Endesa this season. He also added 5.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.8 apg for 10 Euroleague games. Caja Laboral failed to reach the Top 16. Pau Ribas joined Caja Laboral in 2009 from Joventut Badalona. He signed a 4-year deal with the Vitoria team. Before Joventut, Ribas played for their affiliate CB Prat. Pau Ribas was a member of the Spanish U18 and U20 National Teams. He helped U20 Spain to win the Silver at the U20 EuroBasket 2007 in Nova Gorica. He had 14.4 ppg, 3.5 ap and 2 rpg for 8 games at this event.

Caja Laboral's Dusko Ivanovic wins Coach of the Month award - by Eurobasket News
Dusko Ivanovic is named the best coach in Liga Endesa for December. His Caja Laboral won all four games during the month and currently has 10-3 record. Alicante and their Head Coach Txus Vidorreta also registered all four wins, but Ivanovic won the award due to better point difference. Caja Laboral outplayed Lagun Aro GBC 86-74 at the beginning of the month. After that, the Vitoria team registered 67-75 road win against UCAM Murcia. On December 18, Caja Laboral crushed Regal Barca 71-60 and ten days later they grabbed 79-80 victory in Bilbao. Dusko Ivanovic took over Tau Ceramica (Caja Laboral) in 2008. He worked with them also from 2000 to 2005. They won two championship titles together and three Spanish Cups. Caja Laboral plays tonight against Fuenlabrada.

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


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Sweden U16 achieved the first victory - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Latvia U16 55:48

Sweden U16 achieved the first victory at the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The Scandinavian side overcame 55:48 in Day 2. Sweden U16 is with 1-1 record as well as Latvia U16.
Sweden started with 16-9, but led 5 points at the halftime. Latvia bounced back with 13-11 to trail 22-27 after 20 minutes. The third quarter was decisive in the quarter as Sweden needed 15-2 to answer for all the questions in the game. Although Latvia responded with 24-13, they could not save the game.
Oliver Gustavsson (195-F-96) paced all the winners with 13 points and Andreas VonUthmann netted 11. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) collected 9 points and 12 rebounds, while William Skagius (196-C-96) added 8. Renars Apsitis (185-G-96) and Dzeiks-Eduards Krumins (186-G-97) delivered 11 points each in the losing effort.

Sweden U16: Oliver Gustavsson 13, Andreas Von Uthmann (194-F-96) 11, Erik Johansson 9+12 rebs, William Skagius 8
Latvia U16: Renars Apsitis 11, Dzeiks-Eduards Krumins 11


Swedish Men U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center
4 Michael Traore 177-PG-96
5 Sheriff Drammeh 179-G-96
6 Erik Johansson 194-F-96 Talje Sweden
7 Leo Lightner 187-F-96
8 Alexander Jakobsson 190-F-96
10 Andreas Von Uthmann 194-F-96
11 Ludvig Swanstrom 191-F-96
12 William Skagius 196-C-96
13 David Akerberg 196-F-96
14 Mattias Markusson 205-C-96
15 Sebastian Brusenwitz 206-C-96
22 Oliver Gustavsson 195-F-96

Francisco Pinto Head Coach Brahe Sweden


Baltic Sea Basketball Cup: Latvia U18 improved to 2-0 record - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Latvia U18 61:76

Latvia U18 improved to 2-0 record in Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The team won over Sweden U18 76:61 in the opener of Day 2.
Sweden surprised the Latvian side with 20-17 in the first period and continued their push in the second frame as well. The Scandinavian team added 17-15 for 37:32 halftime advantage. Latvia however needed two victories in the second half to seal the victory. The latter produced a 23-12 in the third quarter and finished the game with 21-12.
Latvia showed 51% from the field and had 28.6% from the three-point line. Sweden had only 31.5% from the field and 33.3 from the arc.
Roberts Stelmahers (195-F-94) and Ivars Zvigurs (193-G-95) paced all the winners with 20 points each. Rihards Adins (202-F-94) collected 10 points and 13 rebounds, while Roberts Krastins (196-F-94) nailed 9. Sebastian Schuszler ended up with 14 in defeat and Jesper Eliasson scored 14.

Sweden U18: Sebastian Schuszler (201-F/C-94) 21, Jesper Eliasson (201-F-94) 14
Latvia U18: Roberts Stelmahers 20, Ivars Zvigurs 20, Rihards Adins 10+13 rebs, Roberts Krastins 9

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


SAM Massagno part ways with Kevin Swinton - by Eurobasket News
SAM Massagno have decided to part ways with Kevin Swinton (203-F-87, college: Oklah.Baptist). The forward joined the team at the start of the season. He tallied 14.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals per appearance. Kevin Swinton played for Reales de La Vega in Dominican Republic before moving to Switzerland. The forward graduated from Oklahoma Baptist in 2011. He made it into All-NAIA D1 1st Team.



Monthey tab Kelvin Parker - by Eurobasket News
Monthey bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Kelvin Parker (183-G-82, college: NW Missouri St.). The guard is meant to replace injured Steeve Louissaint (190-G-87). Kelvin Parker signed a two-months deal with the option of extending. Kelvin Parker spent the last season in Austria. He played for the Oberwart Gunners. The guard notched 13.3 points, 4.2 assists, 2.1 boards and 1.8 steals per game. Kelvin Parker received Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League Honourable Mention. Previously he had stints in Germany, Norway and ABA. He was named into All-Norwegian BLNO 2nd Team.


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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Deron WILLIAMS
  Besiktas
  (191-PG-84)
  Avg: 19.7
 1. Williams, Besiktas19.7 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka19.2 
 3. Gibson, Trabzonspor18.8 
 4. Washington, Turk T.18.4 
 5. Kemp, Besiktas18.4 
 6. Grundy, Mersin17.8 
 7. Karadeniz, Turk T.17.3 
 8. Marsh, Hacettep.17.2 
 9. Fisher, Antalya17.1 
 10. Erceg, Besiktas16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor11.4 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne10.3 
 3. Sanders, Hacett.8.7 
 4. Okur, Turk Telekom8.2 
 5. Stanojevic, Karsi.7.8 
 6. Sonkol, Aliaga7.6 
 7. Wesson, Erdemir7.4 
 8. McGhee, Bandirma.7.3 
 9. Buckman, Tofas7.1 
 10. Ilyasova, Anadolu6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Baris ERMIS
  Banvit BK
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Ermis, Banvit BK6.5 
 2. Williams, Besiktas6.4 
 3. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.3 
 4. Ratkovica, Aliaga6.1 
 5. Washington, Turk T.5.7 
 6. Tunceri, Anadolu5.5 
 7. Wright, Olin Edirne4.9 
 8. Senturk, Erdemir4.8 
 9. Capin, Turk T.4.5 
 10. Steele, Tofas4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Vincent GRIER
  Mersin
  (195-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Grier, Mersin2.3 
 2. Ermis, Banvit BK1.8 
 3. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.8 
 4. Vujacic, Anadolu1.8 
 5. Kinsey, Anadolu1.8 
 6. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.8 
 7. Robinson, Trabzons.1.6 
 8. Sanders, Hacett.1.5 
 9. Marsh, Hacettep.1.5 
 10. Ratkovica, Aliaga1.5 
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. Davis, Banvit BK1.1 
 5. Barac, Anadolu Ef.1.0 
 6. Miller, Bandirma K.0.9 
 7. McGhee, Bandirma.0.9 
 8. Aldemir, Galatasar.0.8 
 9. Stimac, Olin Edirne0.8 
 10. Robinson, Erdemir0.8 


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


TBL Round 13: Tofas beat higher ranked Besiktas - by Eurobasket News
The game with biggest difference of round 13 in TBL was host Tofas' (8-5) victory at home over 5th ranked Besiktas (9-4) 96-90 on Wednesday evening. Besiktas trailed by 14 points after 3 quarters before a 42-34 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 90-96 at the end of the game. Tofas dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Besiktas' 32 and made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Tofas looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Besiktas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Bradley Buckman (203-84, college: Texas) fired 18 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. His fellow American import point guard Ronald Steele (187-86, college: Alabama) chipped in 18 points. Serbian power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Tofas have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Karsiyaka. Besiktas at the other side keeps the fifth position with four games lost. Tofas is looking forward to face Turk Telekom (#10) in Ankara in the next round. Besiktas will play at home against Trabzonspor (#15) and is hoping to win this game.
Leader Anadolu Efes delivered the eleventh victory. This time they beat 9th ranked Turk Telekom (7-6) 78-70 in Istanbul. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian power forward Dusko Savanovic (204-83, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 8 rebounds. Kerem Tunceri contributed with 12 points and 9 assists for the winners. Anadolu Efes' coach Ufuk Sarica allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Ali Karadeniz (203-80, college: Arizona) answered with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Turk Telekom. Anadolu Efes maintains first place with 11-2 record. Turk Telekom at the other side dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. They share it with Erdemir and Aliaga. Anadolu Efes will play against Fenerbahce Ulker (#3) in Istanbul in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Turk Telekom will play at home against Tofas (#7) in Bursa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Bandirma Kir. (0-13) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 77-64 loss to fifteenth ranked Trabzonspor (2-11) in Trabzon on Wednesday evening. The game was dominated by American players. Jonathan Gibson stepped up and scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Trabzonspor's coach Halil Uner used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side Gary McGhee responded with 15 points and 8 rebounds. Trabzonspor moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Antalya. Newly promoted Bandirma Kir. still closes the standings with 13 games lost. Trabzonspor will meet higher ranked Besiktas (#5) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bandirma Kir. will play against Antalya (#14) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Istanbul. Local Galatasaray (10-3) outscored 13th ranked Mersin (4-9) 105-67. Cevher Ozer nailed 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Galatasaray moved-up to second place, which they share with Fener.Ulker and Banvit BK. Mersin lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the twelfth position with nine games lost. Galatasaray's next round opponent will be Erdemir (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. Mersin will play against Hacettepe Univ. (#11) in Ankara and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games of round 13 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Fener.Ulker crushed Hacettepe Univ. in Istanbul 79-58. Aliaga beat Olin Edirne at home 67-63. Karsiyaka won against Antalya on the opponent's court 94-89. Banvit BK managed to outperform Erdemir in a home game 72-64.
The best stats of 13th round was 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists by Mire Chatman of Karsiyaka.


Hacettepe Univ. - Fener.Ulker 58-79

There was no surprise in Ankara where 11th ranked Hacettepe Univ. (5-8) was crushed by fifth ranked Fenerbahce Ulker (10-3) 79-58. The game was mostly controlled by Fenerbahce Ulker. Hacettepe Univ. was better in third quarter 16-8. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Hacettepe Univ. 43-31 including a 36-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Bosnian-Croatian swingman Bojan Bogdanovic (203-89) nailed 30 points and 7 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winning side and the former international center Oguz Savas (212-87) accounted for 10 points and 9 rebounds. Fenerbahce Ulker's coach Neven Spahija felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. American forward Ricardo Marsh (207-81, college: ODU) came up with 20 points and the other American import point guard Sherron Collins (180-87, college: Kansas) added 13 points, 5 assists and 4 steals respectively for Hacettepe Univ. in the defeat. Defending champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Galatasaray and Banvit BK. Newly promoted Hacettepe Univ. keeps the eleventh position with eight games lost. Fenerbahce Ulker's next round opponent will be league's leader Anadolu Efes in Istanbul and it will be for sure the game of the week. Hacettepe Univ. will play on the road against Mersin (#13) in Akdeniz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fener.Ulker: B.Bogdanovic 30+7reb+3ast, O.Savas 10+9reb, M.Tomas 8+5reb+5ast, J.Gist 8+6reb+1ast, C.Jerrells 6+1reb+2ast, K.Peker 6+7reb
Hacettepe Univ.: R.Marsh 20+3reb+2ast, S.Collins 13+4reb+5ast, H.Besok 10+7reb+1ast, M.Sanders 6+6reb, M.Bryan-Amaning 4+3reb, O.Adiguzel 3+3reb
gschID: 134382


Tofas - Besiktas 96-90

The game with biggest difference of round 13 in TBL was host Tofas' (8-5) victory at home over 5th ranked Besiktas (9-4) 96-90 on Wednesday evening. Besiktas trailed by 14 points after 3 quarters before a 42-34 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 90-96 at the end of the game. Tofas dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Besiktas' 32 and made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Tofas looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Besiktas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Bradley Buckman (203-84, college: Texas) fired 18 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. His fellow American import point guard Ronald Steele (187-86, college: Alabama) chipped in 18 points. Serbian power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds and guard Serhat Cetin (197-86) added 21 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Tofas have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Karsiyaka. Besiktas at the other side keeps the fifth position with four games lost. Tofas is looking forward to face Turk Telekom (#10) in Ankara in the next round. Besiktas will play at home against Trabzonspor (#15) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Tofas: T.Ruzic 18+1reb, B.Buckman 18+9reb+1ast, R.Steele 18+2reb+2ast, C.Altintig 16+1reb+4ast, J.Zuza 10+2reb, A.Nichols 9+4reb+3ast
Besiktas: S.Cetin 21+4ast, Z.Erceg 18+7reb+2ast, D.Hawkins 13+4reb+2ast, P.Mensah-Bonsu 11+5reb+2ast, F.Can Akin 8+2reb+3ast, M.Yagmur 6+1ast
gschID: 134383


Galatasaray - Mersin 105-67

The game with biggest result difference took place in Istanbul. Local Galatasaray (10-3) outscored 13th ranked Mersin (4-9) 105-67. The game without a history. Galatasaray led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 19-of-20 charity shots (95.0 percent) during the game. Galatasaray outrebounded Mersin 47-26 including a 33-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The former international power forward Cevher Ozer (206-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) nailed 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and the former international guard Tutku Acik (194-80) accounted for 9 points and 7 assists. American-Central African forward James Mays (206-86, college: Clemson) came up with 16 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Anthony Grundy (189-79, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) added 14 points respectively for Mersin in the defeat. Four Mersin players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Galatasaray moved-up to second place, which they share with Fener.Ulker and Banvit BK. Mersin lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the twelfth position with nine games lost. Galatasaray's next round opponent will be Erdemir (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. Mersin will play against Hacettepe Univ. (#11) in Ankara and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Galatasaray: C.Ozer 15+6reb+1ast, J.Lakovic 13+1reb+5ast, P.Shumpert 12+2reb+1ast, J.Lukas Gordon 10+3reb+1ast, J.Shipp 9+2reb+3ast, T.Acik 9+4reb+7ast
Mersin: J.Mays 16+6reb, A.Grundy 14+3reb+3ast, V.Grier 14+4reb, C.Mutaf 10+1reb+1ast, I.Azizmahmutogullari 5+3reb+3ast, M.Demir 3+4reb
gschID: 134384


Aliaga - Olin Edirne 67-63

No shocking result in a game when tenth ranked Aliaga (7-6) defeated at home 12th ranked Olin Edirne (4-9) 67-63. The former international forward Umit Sonkol (206-82) nailed a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and Serbian guard Branislav Ratkovica (193-85, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 9 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. Aliaga's coach Burak Biyiktay allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Chris Wright (185-89, college: Georgetown) came up with 13 points and 8 assists and Bulgarian swingman Filip Videnov (196-80, college: W.Kentucky, agency: Interperformances) added 17 points respectively for Olin Edirne in the defeat. Aliaga moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Turk Telekom and Erdemir. Olin Edirne at the other side keeps the twelfth position with nine games lost. Aliaga's next round opponent will be higher ranked Banvit BK (#4) in Balikesir and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Olin Edirne will play at home against Karsiyaka (#6).
Top scorers:
Aliaga: U.Sonkol 26+13reb, B.Ratkovica 9+4reb+7ast, C.Senturk 9+4reb+2ast, B.Qvale 8+4reb+1ast, A.Tuncer 4+1reb+2ast, R.Toolson 4+1reb+4ast
Olin Edirne: F.Videnov 17+4reb+3ast, C.Wright 13+4reb+8ast, V.Stimac 10+9reb+1ast, W.Wilkinson 7+1reb, M.Abi 7+5reb+1ast, O.Sevinc 3
gschID: 134377


Antalya - Karsiyaka 89-94

Very expected game when 14th ranked Antalya (2-11) was defeated at home by seventh ranked Karsiyaka (8-5) 94-89. The game without a history. Karsiyaka led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Karsiyaka outrebounded Antalya 38-23 including 29 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American guard Mire Chatman (187-78, college: UTPA, agency: Higher Vision Sports) nailed 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and Bosnian guard Goran Ikonic (196-80, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 19 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. American guard Corey Fisher (185-88, college: Villanova) came up with 19 points, 6 assists and 4 steals and Serbian power forward Stevan Jelovac (208-89, agency: BeoExcell) added 16 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Antalya in the defeat. Four Karsiyaka and five Antalya players scored in double figures. Karsiyaka have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Tofas. Antalya at the other side keeps the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. Karsiyaka's next round opponent will be Olin Edirne (#12) on the road which should be theoretically an easy game. Antalya will play against Bandirma Kir. in Balikesir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Karsiyaka: M.Chatman 28+8reb+7ast, G.Ikonic 19+5reb+6ast, J.Stanojevic 14+10reb+2ast, A.Onur Kentli 10+1reb+2ast, E.Bayav 9+7reb+2ast, I.Karaman 7+4reb
Antalya: C.Fisher 19+1reb+6ast, S.Jelovac 16+6reb+2ast, B.Pacun 15+8reb+1ast, K.Brown 14+1reb+5ast, M.Mahmutoglu 10+2reb, R.Basak 9+1ast
gschID: 134378


Anadolu Efes - Turk Telekom 78-70

Leader Anadolu Efes delivered the eleventh victory. This time they beat 9th ranked Turk Telekom (7-6) 78-70 in Istanbul. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Turk Telekom won third quarter 17-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Anadolu Efes made 18-of-21 charity shots (85.7 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Turk Telekom turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian power forward Dusko Savanovic (204-83, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 8 rebounds. The former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-79) contributed with 12 points and 9 assists for the winners. Four Anadolu Efes players scored in double figures. Anadolu Efes' coach Ufuk Sarica allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Ali Karadeniz (203-80, college: Arizona) answered with 19 points and 7 rebounds and Latvian center Kaspars Kambala (206-78, college: UNLV, agency: Alti Sport) added 16 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Turk Telekom. Anadolu Efes maintains first place with 11-2 record. Turk Telekom at the other side dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. They share it with Erdemir and Aliaga. Anadolu Efes will play against Fenerbahce Ulker (#3) in Istanbul in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Turk Telekom will play at home against Tofas (#7) in Bursa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Anadolu Efes: D.Savanovic 18+8reb+1ast, S.Guler 14+2reb+2ast, T.Kinsey 13+4reb+2ast, K.Tunceri 12+1reb+9ast, S.Barac 6+4reb, S.Vujacic 5+3reb+2ast
Turk Telekom: A.Karadeniz 19+7reb+1ast, K.Kambala 16+5reb+1ast, N.Yucel 12+7reb, A.Capin 9+3reb+4ast, C.Altay 7+3reb+1ast, B.Yarangume 5+3reb
gschID: 134379


Banvit BK - Erdemir 72-64

Rather predictable result in Balikesir where third ranked Banvit BK (10-3) beat 6th ranked Erdemir (7-6) 72-64. The hosts were ahead by 10 points but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 16-7 run, which allowed them to win the game. Banvit BK dominated on the defensive end, holding Erdemir to just 7 points in fourth quarter. The former international forward Erkan Veyseloglu (200-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) nailed a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side and American-Azerbaijan forward Charles Davis (202-84, college: Alabama) accounted for 9 points and 6 assists. Four Banvit BK players scored in double figures. American forward Antwayne Robinson (203-84, college: Temple, agency: Priority Sports) came up with 17 points and 5 rebounds and guard Soner Senturk (194-86, agency: 1x1 Sports) added 4 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Erdemir in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Banvit BK have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Fener.Ulker and Galatasaray. Erdemir at the other side dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Banvit BK's next round opponent will be Aliaga (#9) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Erdemir will play against the league's second-placed Galatasaray in Istanbul.
Top scorers:
Banvit BK: L.Williams 14+3reb+1ast, B.Ermis 12+3reb+2ast, E.Veyseloglu 11+10reb+1ast, C.Hammonds 10+5reb+1ast, C.Davis 9+4reb+6ast, K.Bajramovic 6+2reb+2ast
Erdemir: A.Robinson 17+5reb+1ast, M.Yildiz 10+1reb+2ast, Y.Cankaya 6+2reb+1ast, A.Erol 6+1reb, M.Akpinar 6+2reb, G.Henderson 5+1reb+3ast
gschID: 134380


Trabzonspor - Bandirma Kir. 77-64

Bottom-ranked Bandirma Kir. (0-13) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 77-64 loss to fifteenth ranked Trabzonspor (2-11) in Trabzon on Wednesday evening. The game was dominated by American players. point guard Jonathan Gibson (182-87, college: N.Mexico St.) stepped up and scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and center Elton Brown (206-83, college: Virginia) chipped in 11 points and 9 rebounds. Four Trabzonspor players scored in double figures. Trabzonspor's coach Halil Uner used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side center Gary McGhee (208-88, college: Pittsburgh) responded with 15 points and 8 rebounds and power forward Paul Miller (208-82, college: Wichita St.) scored 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Trabzonspor moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Antalya. Newly promoted Bandirma Kir. still closes the standings with 13 games lost. Trabzonspor will meet higher ranked Besiktas (#5) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bandirma Kir. will play against Antalya (#14) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Trabzonspor: J.Gibson 20+5reb+6ast, M.Randle 12+3reb, R.Robinson 11+1reb+6ast, E.Brown 11+9reb+3ast, P.Kaya 8+2reb+1ast, F.Kaan Uner 7+4reb+1ast
Bandirma Kir.: S.Edge 15+2reb+5ast, G.McGhee 15+8reb+2ast, P.Miller 14+6reb+4ast, A.Cantitiz 7+1reb, I.Yildirim 6+7reb+5ast, T.Onen 4+3reb
gschID: 134381




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


Falcons crush Concordia College - by David Edole
FROM STAFF REPORTS

The University of Montevallo mens basketball team dominated Concordia College of Selma from the opening whistle and never relented as the Falcons scored their second-highest point total this season in a 107-51 win over the Hornets in a non-conference game Jan. 3.

Montevallo (11-2) was led by a trio of 20-point performances.

Seniors DeMarcus Catchings and Chauncey Thompson each had 21 points, while fellow senior Jervan Jackson (198-F/G-88) chipped in 20 points.

Catchings tied for second in the Montevallo record book for field goal percentage in a game with a minimum of 10 attempts. Catchings was 9-of-10 from the field, good for 90 percent, which tied him with Greg Brown (2006-2007) for second in the record book. Brown also was 9-fo-10 against Tuskegee on December 5, 2005.

Thompson tied for fifth in the record books while hitting 9-of-11 shots from the field good, for 81.8 percent. Thompson tied with four other former Falcons who also hit 9-of-11 attempts. The most recent was Marcus Kennedy (2004-2007), who was 9-of-11 against the University of West Florida on February 17, 2007.

Jackson was a perfect 8-for-8 from the field but did not take the minimun number of attempts to break into the record book.

Catchings added six rebounds to his total, including five offensive boards. Thompson had four rebounds, while Jackson had five.

Junior Danny Cummins and freshman Ryan May each had 13 points. May added nine assists, five steals and five rebounds. Cummins had a pair of rebounds and a pair of assists.

Junior Drico Hightower led the team in rebounding with 14 boards while scoring five points and dishing out three assists. He also led the team with three blocks.

The Falcons shot 53.2 percent from the field, including 60.2 percent in the second half. The Hornets hit just 31.6 percent and a measly 20 percent in the first half. Montevallo outscored the Hornets 66-26 in the paint and 35-11 off turnovers. Montevallo won the turnover battle 25-14 and the Falcons bench outscored the Concordia College bench 46-3.

The Hornets were able to keep Montevallos lead to within 10 points for the opening 10 minutes of the game, but a free throw from Hightower with 9:45 left in the first half gave the Falcons a 25-15 lead, which Montevallo would never relinquish.

Montevallos largest lead came at the end of the game as the Falcons led by 56 points, 107-51.

The Falcons will return to action Saturday, Jan. 7 at 2:30 p.m. as they travel to UNC-Pembroke for a Peach Belt Conference contest. Both teams are undefeated in Peach Belt Conference play.



FIBA Americas U18 to be held in Brazil - by David Edole
FIBA Americas U18 Championship for men will be held in Sao Sebastian do Paraiso, Brazil 19-23 of June. The athlete must be born in 1994 and after to particpate. The Virgin Islands qualified after knocking off Bahamas, 86-83, behind 32 points from Rasheed Swanston and 28 points from Khalid Hart.
FIBA also has U15 action schedule for June in both junior men's and women's divisions. That is a player mube be born in 1997 and after..
And finally Centrobasket in Men's and Women's action is scheduled for July... So yet another busy summer 2012..

INTERNAL REGULATIONS WORLD EDITION 2004
3.9 Note concerning the eligibility of players from dependent territories The following players are eligible to play for a dependent territory (Virgin Islands):
1. Players born in the Virgin Islands;
2. Players born in the respective main territory (USA) of at least one parent born in the dependent territory (Virgin Islands); and
3. Players, regardless of their place of birth, born of parents both of whom were born in the dependent territory (Virgin Islands).

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


Mark Tyndale joins DniproAzot - by Eurobasket News
DniproAzot continued to bolster their roster. They recently added Mark Tyndale (196-G-86, college: Temple) to the squad. The guard spent the last season in Germany. He played for Telekom Baskets Bonn. Mark Tyndale posted 6.8 points, 4.5 boards and 1.0 steal per game in EuroChallenge. In German League his stats read 7.0 points, 3.2 boards and 1.8 assists per appearance. Previously Mark Tyndale had stints in Australia and D-League. The guard reached the D-League semis with the Iowa Energy in 2010. Mark Tyndale was named into Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team back in 2005 while playing for Temple. He also spent 2009/10 preseason with the Milwaukee Bucks.


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


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. Mitchell, Khimik17.7 
 8. Minard, Azovmash17.3 
 9. McClinton, Budivel.17.0 
 10. Harris, Halychyna16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn KING
  BC Odessa
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. King, BC Odessa10.7 
 2. Vukosavljevi., Hal.10.3 
 3. Davis, Kryvbasb.9.0 
 4. Fraser, DniproAzot8.9 
 5. Davis, Fe.8.9 
 6. Korniyenko, Dnipro8.7 
 7. Dunigan, DniproAzot8.6 
 8. Odufuwa, Halychyna8.1 
 9. Goodridge, BC Kyiv7.9 
 10. Pecherov, Azovma.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Khimik
  (181-PG-84)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Mitchell, Khimik6.3 
 2. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv5.9 
 3. Deane, BC Odessa5.7 
 4. Ewing, Azovmash5.3 
 5. Florence, Kryvbasb.5.2 
 6. Burtt, Dnipro5.1 
 7. Butskyy, Fe.5.0 
 8. Vaughn, Mykolaiv4.4 
 9. Morovic, Halychyna4.4 
 10. Ervin, BC Kyiv4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy CHAPPELL
  Fe.
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 2
 1. Chappell, Fe.2.0 
 2. Florence, Kryvbasb.2.0 
 3. House, Dnipro1.9 
 4. Minard, Azovmash1.8 
 5. Curry, BC Donetsk1.7 
 6. Tiggs, Hoverla1.7 
 7. Nelson, BC Donetsk1.6 
 8. Sirsnins, DniproAz.1.6