Bahrain: Ahmed Al-Dirazi 20, Mohammed Hassan 16, Ahmed Malallah 12
UAE: Rashed Al Zaabi 18, Ebrahim Khalfan 16, Qais Alshabebi 16




Bahrain make winning start - by Yousef Ahmed


BAHRAIN yesterday had a flying start as they downed three-time champions Saudi Arabia 67-64 in the opening match of the 13th GCC Men's Basketball Championship, which got underway at the Zain Bahrain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam.

Bader Malabes and Ahmed Al Durazi orchestrated a late comeback by the home side, who rallied from the first quarter to snatch a sensational win in an action-packed opener, keeping alive their dream of winning the prestigious competition for the first time.

Malabes, son of former national team star Abdulla Jassim, fired two three-pointers in the last two minutes, then Al Durazi made further contributions scoring four consecutive points to help Bahrain overcome a stumbling start to the game.

Also guiding Bahrain to victory were Hussain Shaker, Ahmed Aziz, Mohammed Hussain, Mohammed Qurban and Chester Giles (211-F/C-85, college: Oregon St.).

Bahrain's coach Mindaugas Zukauskas of Lithuania was also banking on several other talents, including Mohammed Kuwayyed and veteran Ahmed Malalla.

The tournament's organisers, who had a short training camp in Serbia, headed into this opener hoping to capture a morale-boosting victory. They faced a younger, but well-prepared Saudi team who had the upper hand in yesterday's early proceedings.

Saudi Arabia also entered yesterday's match with a better head-to-head record, having won their last eight matches against Bahrain.

They took advantage of the Bahrain players' failure to capitalise on several occasion, and capitalising on their counter attacks by Ayman Belal, Fahad Al Salem, Jaber Al Kaabi and Mohammed Al Mawani for 41-29 lead at half-time.

Players

The Saudis, who came well-prepared with a long training camp in Jeddah and Turkey, also played the game with new faces who replaced some of the team's experienced players like Hani Al Ahmed, Fahad Al Qanaisi and Ayoob Hawsawi.

The visitors continued to prove the better side later on, but a late inspiration by Al Durazi and Malabes put Bahrain ahead for the first time with less than one minute and 30 seconds remaining.

With thousands of home supporters cheering their team, there was no stopping Bahrain who maintained momentum in the closing stages to seal a three-point victory.

Earlier yesterday, favourites the UAE sent a strong warning to all contestants as they kick-started their campaign with a resounding 95-59 victory over Oman.

The tournament was then inaugurated by Bahrain Basketball Association president and Parliament Council member Adel Al Assoomi, which was followed by a laser show performed some several volunteers.

Meanwhile, two matches are scheduled for today with Saudi Arabia facing Qatar at 5pm. It will be followed by a crucial game for Bahrain against the UAE at 7pm.

Three teams - Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait - had won the title three teams, while the UAE were crowned champions twice.

The Bahrain Basketball Association announced that entry is free of charge and all are welcome to watch the region's top basketball teams in action.

The week-long tournament, being organised for the 13th time, features five of the GCC teams competing in a single round robin matches. Kuwait was unable to send a team for the event.

Qatar head into this edition's cup as the defending champions, having defeated the UAE 81-74 in the previous tournament which took place in 2010 in Dubai.

Source GDN Posted on Monday, October 01, 2012



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

Ventspils invited Vernon Teel (193-G-87, college: Loyola Mary). The guard will be tested during a try-out period. Vernon Teel spent the previous season in England. He played for the London Leopards. The guard notched 23.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, 8.9 assists and 3.1 steals per game in EBL. Vernon Teel led his team to the title. He was named All-British EBL Division One Finals MVP. The guard was also trumped All-British EBL Division One Co-Player of the Year. It was the first pro season for Vernon Teel. He graduated from Loyola Marymount in 2011. The guard notched 12.8 points, 5.7 boards, 3.8 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance in his senior season.


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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division II Division II Standings  1. Sint-Jan Ant. 4-0   2. Excelsior 3-0   3. Houthalen 3-0   4. St-Niklase 3-0   5. Kangor.-Boom 3-1   6. Waregem 3-1   7. Gent Dragons 2-2   8. CEP Fleurus 1-2   9. Tongeren 1-2   10. Sprimont 1-3   11. Oudenaarde 1-3   12. M.Hainaut II 1-3   13. Essor Charleroi 0-3   14. Gembo BBC 0-3   15. Giants II 0-3  Regular Season: Round 4 Sep. 30: Oudenaarde - CEP Fleurus 85-58 Sep. 29: Sint-Jan Ant. - Tongeren 84-79 Sep. 29: Gent Dragons - Giants II 83-65 Sep. 28: Point Chaud - Kangor.-Boom 76-78 Sep. 29: Waregem - M.Hainaut II 69-76 Sep. 30: Houthalen - Gembo BBC 119-116 Regular Season: Round 5 Oct. 5: M.Hainaut II - Gent Dragons Oct. 5: CEP Fleurus - Waregem Oct. 6: St-Niklase - Houthalen Oct. 6: Tongeren - Excelsior Oct. 7: Essor Charleroi - Sint-Jan Ant. Oct. 7: Gembo BBC - Point Chaud Oct. 7: Giants II - Oudenaarde

Justin Holiday signs at Cavaliers, ex Aalstar - by Eurobasket News

Cleveland Cavaliers landed 23-year old forward Justin Holiday (198-84kg-89, college: Washington) for a training camp. Holiday played most recently at Aalstar in Belgian Ethias League. In 12 EuroChallenge games last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.6apg and 1.0spg. He also played 33 games in Ethias League where he had 7.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.4apg and 1.2spg. Holiday helped them to win the cup.
He has never been drafted by the NBA.
Holiday graduated from The University of Washington in 2011 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Division II - Round Four - by Bert Larsimont

Cuva Houthalen vs. Gembo BBC: 119-116

In a real thriller, Cuva Houthalen defeated last year's Division II champions of BBC Gembo Borgerhout on Sunday afternoon. It was a real propaganda for the Belgian Division II competition. Three-pointers, spectacular baskets, great defensive plays, fantastic percentage, score changes, all ingredients to make a great game of basketball! Although he had a slow start, Jason Westrol (191-G-88, college: Bentley) was quite decisive for the home team in the second half. He and Gembo's proactive Domien Loubry (186-G-85) were the two players who scored the 100th point on each side. In a last effort, Cuva's center Odell Hodge (204-C/F-73, college: ODU) blocked the last three-point attempt by Gembo to definitely offer his team the win.
Score evolution: 18-24, 64-52, 83-81 and 119-116.
Best scorers:
Cuva: R. McCollum 28, J. Westrol 26, O. Hodge 24, W. Jacobs 9, C. Koonings 8, H. Vanwijn 8, D. Clemente 4, K. Schrooten 3.
Gembo: D. Loubry 31 and N. Celis 33.

BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde vs. CEP Fleurus: 85-58

Great win for the Haantjes. In the local media last week, home team's center Mikhail Linskens (213-C-87, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Wyoming) had announced a warm welcome to the visitors of CEP Fleurus who have been unable to score much since the beginning of the season. The visitors always trailed behind and had a poor second quarter. Jean Salumu (193-F-90) will be a true leader this season for the Haantjes.
Score evolution: 21-18, 39-26, 64-41 and 85-58.
Best scorers:
Haantjes: G. De Lepeleire 10, J. Bourdeaux 15, J. Salumu 23, G. Mestdag 23, M. Linskens 4, L. Lhote 10.
CEP: A. Marion 2, R. Van Den Berghe 2, C. Manzanza 11, L. Pourtoit 12, M. Kouwijzer 3, T. Bauwens 5, L. Hazard 8, S. Muric 2, C. Ilongo 13.

Bent Schoenen Waregem vs. Belfius Mons Hainaut II: 69-76

In the first 20 minutes, Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) and Loic Schwartz (198-G/F-92) were pretty impressive on the visitors' side. Loic Schwartz hit four important three-pointers in the second quarter of the game. Even if the third and fourth quarters were better for BS Waregem, the gap at the half (27-44) was already too big. BS Waregem, led by Thomas Foucart (195-F-84), could not come closer than 6 points behind their guests from Province Hainaut. Belfius Mons Hainaut II recorded therefore a first win in the current regular Division II season.
Score evolution: 8-15, 27-44, 43-59 and 69-76.
Best scorers:
BS Waregem: A. Steinbach 5, B. Samaey 14, H. Loontiens 3, S. Naudts 14, O. Foucart 6, T. Foucart 15, L. De Lepeleire 2, A. Gueye 10.
Mons Hainaut II: D. Walasiak 2, M. Pretto 5, E. Lecomte 26, G. Vlamynck 6, L. Schwartz 20, M. Renard 16, K. Tumba 4.

Gent Dragons vs. Port of Antwerp Giants II: 83-65

The young Belgian Giants of Coach Luc Smout showed their full potential in the first half at the Tolhuis Arena in Ghent. Nevertheless, the Dragons with freshly hired Leigh Enobakhare (206-C-86, agency: Court Side) and powerful US player Brian Heinle (205-F-78, agency: Court Side, college: CS Northridge) outrebounded the Giants 39-29 in this game. The hosts also hit crucial shots and maintained a rather good shooting percentage through the whole game: 27/48 from 2-pts range and 6/19 from 3-pts range.
Score at half-time: 35-43
Best scorers:
Dragons: J. Jones 2, B. Heinle 18, R. Spaens 16, F. Lait 11, T. Van De Vondel 13, M. Van Gelder 7, L. Enobokhare 14, C. Tshimuanga 2.
Giants II: A. Rojas Palma 11, B. Van Den Broek 7, M. Van Steenwinkel 4, Ya. Schoepen 14, Yo. Schoepen 7, D. Marchant 16.

Sint-Jan Antwerp vs. BasKet Tongeren: 84-79

Senne Geukens and Vinnie Haerbos (both injured) were missing for Division II leading team Sint-Jan. BasKet Tongeren started well. Peter Pipeleers (202-F/C-80) and Jean Delva (197-F/G-87) showed the way to the basket for the visitors who led 6-11 after 4 minutes in the game. The Jantjes of Coach Steve Cornelis reacted well and, after 14-13, were in front at the end of the first quarter: 24-21 on the scoreboard. Just like last week, when Sint-Jan visited CEP Fleurus, the whole Sint-Jan side remained concentrated and put the visitors 13 points behind at the half: 48-35. Peter Pipeleers sat on the BasKet Tongeren's bench with 3 personal fouls through the second quarter. The guests quickly came back into the game in the third quarter via 48-45 and 52-50 but also missed some attempts later on. It was 63-54 after 30 minutes. When the scoreboard showed 69-70 in the final quarter, the home team made a last effort to take the lead again in the last minutes and finished with a win: 84-79. Ashley Druwez (192-G/F-89), Vincent Verbeeck (196-F-87), Naim El Kounchar (191-G-94) and Brett Hartshorne (199-C/F-92) particularly played well and helped their team record a perfect run (4 wins out of 4 games played) so far in this competition.
Here are the game highlights broadcasted on ATV Scoren last Sunday: http://www.atv.be/item/sint-jan-haalt-4-op-4.
Score evolution: 24-21, 48-35, 63-54 and 84-79.

Point Chaud Sprimont vs. Kangoeroes Boom: 76-78

Always very tough to play in Point Chaud Sprimont, a team with Belgian players only. The game was played on Friday, Sep. 28th at 21:00. Short but important win for the visitors after their surprising loss of last week in Sint-Niklaas. The home team of Coach Pascal Horrion has a record of 1 win and 2 losses so far. The two lost games were at home.
Best scorers:
Sprimont: G. Donnay 12, R. Delhaye 5, F. Delsaute 15, J. Flagothier 8, F. Forthomme 1, G. Hertay 13, G. Vrancken 14, J.-B. Thom 4, F. Manset 4.
Kangoeroes: S. Bellin 19, W. Dobbelaere 15, D. Souveryns 18, W. Van Schil 5, Bessems 2, M. Gorremans 19.

Excelsior Brussels vs. Essor Charleroi (Spirou B) (to be played on 2012-11-18)

Bye: St-Niklase Condors




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

BOSNIA

Ernest Bremer agreed terms with Fener.Ulker - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (TBL) inked 32-year old Bosnian guard Ernest Bremer (194-93kg-80, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Higher Vision Sports). Bremer played most recently at EA7 Armani in Italian SerieA. He managed to play in three leagues in two countries last year (!!!). In 21 SerieA games last season he recorded 8.7ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.4apg. Bremer helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. He also played at N.Novgorod in Russian PBL earlier that season. In 8 PBL games he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.6rpg and 3.5apg. Bremer also played 20 games in EuroChallenge where he averaged 13.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 5.1apg and 1.3spg.
Bremer attended St.Bonaventure University and it will be his eleventh (!!!) season in pro basketball. He represented Bosnia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2009 four years ago. His stats at that event were 6 games: 8.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 47.8%.
Bremer is a very experienced player. He has played also professionally in Spain (Unicaja Malaga), NBA (Golden State Warriors), Bosnia (Bosna ASA BHT), Russia (Krasnie Krilya, Spartak Primorie Vladivostok and Triumph Lyubertsy) and Italy (Angelico Biella).

By Eurobasket Data Center (Via @SportandoBasket)


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

CANADA

Barangay Ginebra adds Freeman to their roster, ex London L. - by Eurobasket

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (PBA) added to their roster 27-year old American forward Gabe Freeman (198-85, college: Costa Mesa JC). Freeman moved there from London Lightning in Canadian NBL where he supposed to play, but it seems he will not stay with that team after all. The last season he played for London Lightning (NBL Canada). He played in two countries last year (!!!) In 42 NBL Canada games he recorded very impressive stats: 18.1ppg, 12.2rpg, 1.7apg and 1.2spg. Freeman also played at Barako Bull earlier that season. In 7 PBA games he averaged impressive 21.7ppg, 14.0rpg, 2.7apg and 1.0spg.
He is quite experienced player. Freeman has played also professionally in Mexico (Vaqueros), PBL (Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry), Philippines (Petron Blaze and Philippine Patriots) and CBA (Albany Patroons).
He is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas.
Freeman attended Costa Mesa JC until 2007 and it will be his sixth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @pbaonline)


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

CHILE

Standings - DIMAYOR Liga Nacional Standings North  1. Boston Coll. 2-0   2. Los Leones 2-0   3. Sagrados 2-0   4. Puente Alto 0-2   5. Rancagua 0-2   6. Stadio Italiano 0-2  South  1. Dep.Castro 2-0   2. Dep.Espanol 1-0   3. AB Ancud 1-1   4. Osorno Basq. 1-1   5. Dep.Valdivia 0-1   6. Las Animas 0-2  Regular Season: Round 2 Sep. 30: Boston Coll. - Rancagua 93-77 Sep. 30: Las Animas - AB Ancud 88-96 Sep. 30: Dep.Espanol - Dep.Valdivia 88-54 Sep. 30: Los Leones - Puente Alto 78-75 Sep. 30: Sagrados - Stadio Italiano 71-61 Sep. 30: Osorno Basq. - Dep.Castro 65-68

Standings - LIBSUR DIMAYOR Regular Season Standings  1. Liceo Mixto 4-0   2. San Fernando 3-1   3. U.Concepcion 3-1   4. Duoc 2-2   5. U.Catolica 2-2   6. I.P. Virginio 1-3   7. San Luis 1-3   8. Quilicura 0-4  Regular Season: Round 3 Sep. 29: U.Concepcion - Duoc 89-68 Sep. 29: Liceo Mixto - Quilicura 81-60 Sep. 29: I.P. Virginio - U.Catolica 64-86 Sep. 29: San Luis - San Fernando 63-72 Regular Season: Round 5 Oct. 6: Quilicura - Duoc Oct. 6: San Fernando - U.Catolica Oct. 6: U.Concepcion - Liceo Mixto Oct. 6: I.P. Virginio - San Luis

Dimayor round 3 & 4: Liceo Mixto is the exclusive leader - by Daniel Valencia

After round 4 of Dimayor 2012, Liceo Mixto is the exclusive leader of the league with a 4-0 record after weekend victories against Quilicura and San Fernando. The forward Jonathon Avery (201-F-88, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: IUPUI) scored 27 points in both games to lead Liceo. In Concepcion, CD Universidad de Concepcion won both games at home against Duoc and Universidad Catolica, led by Terrell Taylor (203-C-81, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Virginia Tech) and the shooting guard Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83). The best player of the weekend was the forward Jeffrey Fahnbulleh (200-C/F-85) who averaged 30 points and 23 rebounds (34 points and 28 rebounds against Virginio Gomez and 26 points and 18 rebounds against Universidad de Concepcion). These are the complete results.

Round 3

Liceo Mixto 81 - Quilicura 60
Lic: Jonathon Avery 27 pts. A.J. Hardeman 19 pts.
Qui: Williams Bustos 20 pts. Timothy Jones 13 pts.

San Luis 63 - San Fernando 72
Fer: Keneth Jones 26 pts. Franco Morales 12 pts.

Universidad de Concepcion 89 - DUOC 68
Ucon: Terrell Taylor 24 pts. Evandro Arteaga 20 pts.
Duoc: Gabriel Colon 25 pts. Valentin Cabello 9 pts.

Virginio Gomez 64 - Universidad Catolica 86
Vir: Antonio Davis 18 pts. Miguel Molina 15 pts.
Uc: Jeffrey Fahnbulleh 34 pts. Antonio Pinedo 16 pts.

Round 4

Liceo Mixto 96 - San Fernando 74
Lic: Jonathon Avery 27 pts. A.J. Hardeman 24 pts.
Fer: Allan Sheppard 21 pts. Franco Morales 21 pts.

San Luis 93 - Quilicura 62

Universidad de Concepcion 81 - Universidad Catolica 64
Ucon: Evandro Arteaga 21 pts. Terrell Taylor 20 pts.
Uc: Jeffrey Fahnbulleh 26 pts. Jorge Schuler 16 pts.

Virginio Gomez 59 - DUOC 73


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

COLOMBIA

Standings Copa Federacion Standings  1. Guerreros 10-3   2. Once Caldas 9-3   3. Bucaros 8-5   4. Arrieros 7-4   5. Islanders 6-4   6. Patriotas 6-6   7. Cafeteros 5-6   8. Choco 5-8   9. Bayside 3-10   10. Hormigueros 1-11  Regular Season: Round 8 Oct. 1: Bayside - Hormigueros Oct. 1: Bucaros - Islanders Oct. 1: Choco - Cafeteros Oct. 1: Patriotas - Arrieros Oct. 1: Guerreros - Once Caldas Oct. 2: Bayside - Hormigueros Oct. 2: Bucaros - Islanders Oct. 2: Choco - Cafeteros Oct. 2: Patriotas - Arrieros Oct. 2: Guerreros - Once Caldas

FEDERATION CUP 2012, DAY 13 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia

Guerreros keep stealing one game on each visit, the leaders defeated the hard Cafeteros in Armenia, for the Guerreros Ortiz and Plummer lead the way, in Cafeteros Dorsey again took the offensive load.
Cafeteros 75 D. Dorsey 27 pts
Guerreros 80 S. Ortiz 27 pts, G. Plummer 17 pts.

Arrieros got a great victory defeating the Bukaros in Bucaramanga, Kelvin Pea and J.C. Otero (201-F-85) took the lead in the fourth quarter.
Bukaros 78
Arrieros 85.

Islanders defeated Hormigueros in the Island and reaches the fourth place in the standings.
Islanders 95
Hormigueros 88.

Choco got a very important victory to get a place among the top 8 defeating the Bayside team in Quibdo, .
Nuevo Choco 88
Bayside 53.



JUAN DIEGO TELLO PALACIOS JOINS GUERREROS - by Victor Garcia

Guerreros rocks the market and the Federation Cup, the leader of the Cup signed the most international Colombian player, Juan Palacios is ready to wear the Guerreros jersey tonight in the leaders game against Once Caldas.
Palacios arrives to the team after a succesful career in Spains LEB Gold and ACB League, last season was member of the Gran Canaria 2012 averaging 8,5 PPG and 4,6 RPG, previoulsy played at U.B. La Palma posting great numbers.
Tello Palacios played his college career at Louisville arriving to one final four and one elite eight, Guerreros is his first profesional team in Colombia, and now the Guerreros looks as the stronger roster ever in the Federation Cup.


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

CZECH REPUBLIC

BK Levharti Chomutov Finalize Roster Prior to Season Opener - by Surujh Roopnarine

Management of Levharti Chomutov have announced some last minute changes to the roster prior to the season tip-off this Wednesday on the road against Jindrichuv Hradec. The club announced that they will bring in veteran guard/forward Pavel Boask for a six-week try-out. The 30-year old Czech will have the first month or so of the season to make an impression on club management and Head Coach Tomas Eisner to remain for the entire season. Bosak, 6-4, played last season in France with Saint Chamond Basket (NM2) but will now head back to Czech Republic where he began his career with Plzen back in 2000-2001. He then moved up the ranks of the domestic leagues playing with USK Praha, BK Sadska and lastly BK Prostejov during the 2008-09 season. A 2005 NBL All-Star, Bosak has spent the past several seasons playing in Slovakia and Italy. An experienced and talented player, the team hopes that he will team with veteran leader Pavel Stanek (203-F/C-76) as a steadying force for the young Leopards. In addition, the club announced that they have parted ways with American import forward Charles Little (198-F-87, college: Dayton) who joined the club nearly three weeks ago. Head Coach Eisner was not satisfied with the performance of Little and decided to end the engagement.

2012-2013 Levharti Chomutov Roster
#4 Showron Glover (180-PG-87)
#6 Jan Stepanek (204-C-83)
#11 Pavel Stanek
#13 Adam Zampach (197-SF-90)
#14 Martin Basta (189-SF-92)
#15 Martin Jakes (195-F-85)
#16 Pavel Bosak (192-G/F-82)
#17 Filip Halada (198-F-92)
#42 Jon Pack (210-C, college: Co.Carolina)
#44 Ladislav Pecka (202-F-91)
#53 Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92)
#55 Zdenek Hanzlik (200-F-87)


SLUNETA Usti nad Labem Will Not Continue With Haakim Johnson - by Surujh Roopnarine

The opening night roster for the 2012-13 SLUNETA Usti nad Labem club is finalized and it will not include 25-year old American import Haakim Johnson (201-G-87, college: Pikeville). After joining the club this summer, management was not satisfied with results in training and test games and thus decided to part ways. Johnson, a 6-7 guard out of Pikeville (NAIA), played this season in Mexico with Ostioneros de Guaymas where in 55 games he averaged 15.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists. In his professional career Johns0on has played in Puerto Rico and Japan in addition to Mexico.

2012-13 SLUNETA Usti nad Labem
#5 Jan Dvoracek (180-PG-92)
#15 Vladimir Hejl (198-F-81)
#14 Tomas Hruby (206-C-78)
#6 Jan Koranda (190-G-88)
#10 Jakub Krakovic (205-F-90)
#8 Kamil Kudlacek (192-G-88)
#11 Albert Nolen (185-G-89, college: Minnesota)
#4 Antonin Pistecky (195-F-84)
#24 Brad Reese (199-F-88, college: Texas Tech)
#9 Marek Slunecko (193-G-89)
#13 Jaroslav Tyrna (208-F/C-86, college: New Orleans)


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

DENMARK

Standings - Basketligaen Ligaen Standings  1. Bakken 3-0   2. Svendborg 3-0   3. SISU 2-1   4. Aarhus BC 2-1   5. Naestved 2-1   6. Horsens IC 1-2   7. Vaerlose 0-1   8. Aalborg 0-2   9. Randers 0-2   10. Horsholm 0-3  Regular Season: Round 3 Oct. 1: Randers - Svendborg 93-96 Sep. 30: Horsens IC - Naestved 85-94 Sep. 29: Horsholm - Aarhus BC 63-67 Sep. 30: SISU - Bakken 61-78 Regular Season: Round 4 Oct. 4: Vaerlose - Horsens IC Oct. 5: Bakken - Randers Oct. 6: Svendborg - Aalborg Oct. 6: Horsholm - SISU

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Ryan WILLEN   Aalborg   (204-F/C-89)   Avg: 27  1. Willen, Aalborg 27.0   2. Ocana, Randers 25.0   3. Darboe, Svendborg 22.3   4. Bowlin, Horsens IC 22.0   5. Delaney, Aalborg 21.5   6. Rutherford, Svend. 20.7   7. Dennis, SISU 20.0   8. Walker, Naestved 19.7   9. Washington, Svend. 19.7   10. Kovacs, Horsholm 19.5  Rebounds Per Game  Randy DEZOUVRE   Aarhus BC   (195-F/G-87)   Avg: 11.3  1. Dezouvre, Aarhus 11.3   2. Rutherford, Svend. 10.3   3. Hesseldal, Horsholm 10.3   4. Washington, Svend. 9.3   5. Ocana, Randers 9.0   6. Moritz, SISU 8.7   7. Chin, Bakken 8.0   8. Willen, Aalborg 8.0   9. Jukic, Horsens IC 7.3   10. Walker, Naestved 7.3  Assists Per Game  Skyler BOWLIN   Horsens IC   (190-G-89)   Avg: 9  1. Bowlin, Horsens IC 9.0   2. Jonsson, Aarhus BC 8.5   3. Tomko, Bakken 6.7   4. Nielsen, Randers 5.0   5. Plannthin, Svend. 5.0   6. Dennis, SISU 4.7   7. Murphy, Naestved 4.7   8. Rutherford, Svend. 4.0   9. Darboe, Svendborg 4.0   10. Ortega, Randers 3.5  Steals Per Game  Skyler BOWLIN   Horsens IC   (190-G-89)   Avg: 5.3  1. Bowlin, Horsens IC 5.3   2. Walker, Naestved 3.3   3. Tomko, Bakken 2.7   4. Ocana, Randers 2.5   5. Delaney, Aalborg 2.5   6. Dezouvre, Aarhus 2.3   7. Varga, Horsens IC 2.0   8. Sorensen, Aalborg 2.0   9. Ortega, Randers 2.0   10. Plannthin, Svend. 2.0  Blocks Per Game  Keane THOMANN   Horse.   (211-C-89)   Avg: 1.7  1. Thomann, Horse. 1.7   2. Washington, Svend. 1.7   3. Smith, SISU 1.0   4. Marinkovic, Horsho. 1.0   5. Jukic, Horsens IC 1.0   6. Christoffers., Bak. 1.0   7. Chin, Bakken 0.7   8. Jensen, Bakken 0.5   9. Ocana, Randers 0.5   10. Kovacs, Horsholm 0.5

Ligaen Round 3: Bakken defeats SISU - by Eurobasket News

This is still too early stage of the Regular Season in Ligaen and we should expect many changes in upcoming rounds. What a coincidence that all visitors won their games.

Horsholm - Aarhus BC 63-67
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Horsholm won third quarter 23-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Randy Dezouvre (195-87, college: Iona) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Bulgarian forward Hristo Petkov (202-85, college: Campbellsville) accounted for 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. The former international forward Casper Hesseldal (198-85, college: Dickinson St., agency: Dynamics Global Management) came up with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds and Hungarian forward Attila Kovacs (203-85) added 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Horsholm in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: C.Hesseldal 25+12reb, A.Kovacs 18+6reb+5ast, B.Marinkovic 8+5reb+1ast, R.Hansen 6+4reb+1ast, Z.Jukic 6+2reb+4ast, S.Nielsen 0+1reb
Aarhus BC: R.Dezouvre 23+11reb+4ast, H.Petkov 17+5reb+1ast, R.Soby Dalboge 12+4reb+2ast, K.Baare 5+1ast, K.McShane 4+7reb, R.Laier 4+3reb

gschID: 195228

Horsens IC - Naestved 85-94
The guests were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 26-23 Horsens IC's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 94-85 at the end of the game. It was a great shooting night for Naestved especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Horsens IC was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American guard Caleb Walker (193-89, college: Nebraska) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Canadian guard Alexander Murphy (183-88) helped adding 10 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Skyler Bowlin (190-89, college: Missouri So., agency: Warren Sports International) with 28 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists and international guard Darko Jukic (198-90) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Five Naestved and four Horsens IC players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Horsens IC: S.Bowlin 28+5reb+8ast, D.Jukic 16+10reb+3ast, K.Thomann 11+6reb+1ast, F.Rungby 11+6reb+1ast, M.Sakne 6+2reb+1ast, L.Varga 6+2reb
Naestved: C.Walker 20+5reb+5ast, J.Benjamin 18+7reb, D.Crowell 16+4reb+1ast, S.Mjos 11+1reb+3ast, A.Murphy 10+7reb+9ast, N.Brasas 8+3reb

gschID: 195229

SISU - Bakken 61-78
The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. It was a good game for Jamaican forward Orane Chin (200-88, college: CS Fullerton) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. American point guard Chad Tomko (180-89, college: NC-Wilmington) contributed with 21 points for the winners. Tomko is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Bakken players scored in double figures. American forward Damon Smith (200-88, college: Mary) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) added 17 points in the effort for SISU.
Top scorers:
SISU: M.Dennis 17+2reb+2ast, D.Smith 16+9reb+3ast, M.Flowers 8+2reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 7+3reb+5ast, J.Visaq 5+4reb+1ast, Z.Moritz 4+7reb+1ast
Bakken: C.Tomko 21+3reb+3ast, O.Chin 20+10reb+2ast, C.Nielsen 11+3reb+2ast, N.Iversen 10+9reb+3ast, M.Sahlertz 7+2reb, C.Christoffersen 6+11reb+2ast

gschID: 195230

Randers - Svendborg 93-96
The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 30-22 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Svendborg made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American power forward Donald Rutherford (199-87, college: Catawba) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. The former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86) accounted for 24 points for the winning side. Forward Damian Ocana (198-86) came up with 28 points and 9 rebounds and guard Mike Nielsen (191-91) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists respectively for Randers in the defeat. Four Randers players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Randers: D.Ocana 28+9reb+3ast, M.Nielsen 13+6reb+7ast, C.Jorgensen 13+6reb+3ast, P.Nielsen 11+1reb, M.Vahl 10+3reb+1ast, M.Ortega 9+6reb+4ast
Svendborg: A.Darboe 24+4reb+3ast, D.Rutherford 21+10reb+3ast, G.Washington 14+8reb+1ast, K.Gertz 11+1reb+1ast, M.Plannthin 8+4reb+9ast, C.Magaard 8+2reb+1ast

gschID: 195231

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

FINLAND

1.DIVISION: ToPo and Devin Ginty inked - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Division 1 tip-off for 2012-13 will be two days later than in the Top League (Korisliiga). First Korisliiga on October 3 and then Division 1 on October 5. Some 1 Division teams have signed still American players or are testing them on their rosters. Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) has inked with G Devin Ginty (188-G-89, agency: SDJ Sports, college: San Diego). Ginty is first time in Finland. Ronald Clark (196-F/G-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Colorado St.) instead knows well already this country. Last season on ToPo roster and now on Honka (Tapiola) team. Honka will have also Eric Brennan (201-F-89, college: Kutztown) from Kutztown (NCAA2) University on the roster. Brennan's teammate Devon McBride (194-G/F-87, college: Kutztown) is also in Finland. Tarmo (Porvoo) is testing McBride as team's third American player.


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

FRANCE

Dijon split ways with Mike Davis - by Eurobasket News

Dijon decided not to sign Mike Davis (205-F-88, college: Illinois) after he completed his try-out period with the team. His performance did not satisfy the coaching staff. Davis was tested by MBC Mykolaiv in Ukrainian Superleague before, but was not approved after all. The last season he played at Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye in Superleague. In 31 Superleague games he had 11.3ppg, 8.4rpg and 1.8apg. Davis helped them to make it to the cup final.
He was selected to All-Big Ten Honorable Mention in 2011 back at the college.
He graduated from University of Illinois in 2011 and it will be his second season as a professional player.


Cummard is back at Fos Ouest - by Eurobasket News

Fos Ouest Provence Basket (ProB) signed 27-year old American shooting guard Lee Cummard (201-86kg-85, college: BYU, agency: Priority Sports). He is meant to replace injured Mohammed Hachad. Its actually his comeback to Fos Ouest as he played here before. Cummard played there last season. Cummard also played for Kyoto Hannaryz in Japanese BJ League last season.
Cummard has played also professionally in D-League (Utah Flash).
He attended Brigham Young University until 2009 and it will be his fourth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Kaunisto's double-double lands him NM1 Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

30-year old forward Ville Kaunisto (205-F-82) had an amazing evening for Blois and receives a Eurobasket.com NM1 Player of the Week award for round 1.
He had a double-double of 20 points and 15 rebounds, while his team beat Challans (0-1) 76-71. Kaunisto had a remarkable 55.6% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Blois and it's hard to imagine this team without him.

Second best performed player was Florian Thibedore (193-G/F-90) of Quimper. He is a swingman in his 4th season at Quimper. Thibedore recorded impressive 26 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. It was enough for Quimper to edge Sorgues (0-1) in overtime by 6 points 96-90.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Quincy Hankins-Cole (203-PF-90) of Sorgues. Hankins-Cole scored 20 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Hankins-Cole's great performance Sorgues lost 90-96 in overtime to Quimper (1-0). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Carlos Cherry (184-PG-79) of Quimper - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists
5. Ahmed Fellah (180-PG-81) of Angers BC 49 - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists
6. Bernard M'Poy (197-F-87) of Rennes - 22 points and 3 rebounds
7. Travarus Bennett (202-F-79) of Monaco - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
8. SyPir Traore (204-F-85) of Angers BC 49 - 9 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Olivier Bardet (203-F-80) of Monaco - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Romain Tillon (180-PG-82) of St Chamond - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists

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


The start of a new season! - by Daviin Davis


The start of a new season!

The Seven week training camp was crazy hard and took a lot of focus. As a team we experienced a lot of injuries. We played very good teams to help prepare us for the long season. Running at 6 AM to practicing 5 hours a day. It's something that shouldn't be taken for granted. I was just happy to be apart of a training camp again. Last year I was back in the states waiting on a phone call. 7 weeks might seem like a long time Just for training camp. I believe it's Necessary in trying to build a team and not just individuals playing together. In my basketball career I have seen that teams that care for one another it goes a long way. Like if a player in on the floor there are 4 players there to pick him up. Or if a teammate is having a bad game his teammates tell him to keep his head up and play hard. The most important thing to me is if your able to give helpful Criticism to other teammates and also Receive it and not get mad or upset or hold a Grudge. So for me training camp is not only for getting into better shape and learn the system it's to build bonds and chemistry.

After all the hard work we put in it worked out for us in our first game we got a hard fought win by 7 points I believe I played ok 15 points 6blks 5rebs 2ast 1steal.... I didn't shoot the 3 like I know I can but some nights are like that. they will drop I promise that. So thats one game down and 29 more to go. It's a grind out kind of season so only the strong will be on top at the end. And we work hard so we can make sure it will be us (ADA BLOIS)

until next time TAKE CARE and GOD BLESS..Chosen Last But Best Pick

Daviin Davis



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

GERMANY

Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Scott THOMAS   Cuxhaven   (200-F-89)   Avg: 29  1. Thomas, Cuxhaven 29.0   2. Stutz, ETB Wohnbau 25.0   3. Harbut, ETB W. 24.0   4. Chavis, NBC 23.0   5. Richardson, Karls. 22.0   6. Greene, Duesseldorf 21.0   7. Scott, Vechta 21.0   8. Simon, Leipzig 21.0   9. Lipke, Gotha 20.0   10. Vargas, Goetting. 20.0  Rebounds Per Game  DeWayne RICHARDSON   Karls.   (202-C-77)   Avg: 17  1. Richardson, Karls. 17.0   2. Thompson, NBC 16.0   3. Unterluggaue., Ehi. 11.0   4. Smith, Gotha 11.0   5. Stutz, ETB Wohnbau 10.0   6. Jones, Chemnitz 9.0   7. Cardenas, Chemnitz 8.0   8. Harris, Cuxhaven 8.0   9. Obiango, Chemnitz 8.0   10. Dennis, Finke B. 8.0  Assists Per Game  Tyrone BRAZELTON   NBC   (185-G-86)   Avg: 10  1. Brazelton, NBC 10.0   2. Smith, Gotha 8.0   3. Grimaldi, Goetting. 7.0   4. Bynum, Chemnitz 7.0   5. Williams, Vechta 6.0   6. Stockton, Karlsruhe 6.0   7. Matthews, Ehingen 6.0   8. Tzakopoulos, Dues. 5.0   9. Aud, Finke Baskets 5.0   10. Zipser, Heidelberg 5.0  Steals Per Game  Richard WILLIAMS   Vechta   (178-PG-87)   Avg: 5  1. Williams, Vechta 5.0   2. Harris, Cuxhaven 4.0   3. Bynum, Chemnitz 4.0   4. Jost, Finke Baske. 3.0   5. Rockmann, Cuxhaven 3.0   6. Pratt, Cuxhaven 3.0   7. Adler, NBC 3.0   8. Greene, Duesseldorf 2.0   9. Lipke, Gotha 2.0   10. Reyes-N., Jena 2.0  Blocks Per Game  Paul ZIPSER   Heidelberg   (201-PG-94)   Avg: 4  1. Zipser, Heidelberg 4.0   2. Menck, Karlsruhe 2.0   3. De Michael, NBC 2.0   4. Obiango, Chemnitz 1.0   5. Pratt, Cuxhaven 1.0   6. Rohde, Heidelberg 1.0   7. Calvin, Ehingen 1.0   8. Theis, Ehingen 1.0   9. Henley, ETB W. 1.0   10. Thompson, NBC 1.0

Brian Harper (TBB Trier) I Have The Chance To Play For A Coach That Really Understands The Game Of Basketball - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Brian Harper (206-F/G-85, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Paine) is a 27 year old 206cm forward that is commencing his first season in Germany in the Beko BBL for TBB Trier. He started off playing guard at 6'5" at Paine and grew to 6'10" and never changing positions. Brian's a smooth shooting wing with explosive athleticism. He has tremendous lateral movement with a wing span of 7'4". Brian is a talented ball handler. He adds an extra advantage as he utilizes his size to rebound over smaller defenders. He played at Paine (NCAA2) from 2003-2007. He turned professional in 2007 and played for Gimle BBK Bergen (Norway-1Div., starting five): 15 games: Score-3 (25.1ppg), 8.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, 2.0bpg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 21.5%, FT: 66.3%. In 2008-2009, he played for KCC Egis (Korea-KBL, starting five): Korean League: 9 games: 15.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.7%; released in Nov.'08, in Feb.'09 moved to Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League): 8 games: 3.5ppg, 1.6rpg; in March '09 signed at Reno Bighorns (D-League): 5 games: 1.2ppg. In the last three years, he played in Japan for Toyama Grouses (Japan-BJ League) playing a total of 102 games. Last season, he played 49 games: 16.3ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 28.7%, FT: 61.3%. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

Congrats on your new job with TBB Trier in the German Beko BBL: Wat were the main reasons why you decided to join this team?

Thanks, I decided to join TBB Trier because of the opportunity to play in a great league and for a great organization. Also its going to give me a chance to play under a coach that really understands the game of basketball.

You played the last three years in Japan. You played as a rookie in Norway in 2007. Did you miss Europe or why did you decide to leave Japan?

I did miss Europe and always at some point of my career wanted to come back and play in Europe again.

Some basketball players perfer to stay in one country. There is a good lifestyle in Japan. Did you ever think about possibly having a long basketball career in Japan?

Leaving Japan wasnt an easy thing to do I love the culture, fans and professional basketball league in Japan , but I knew that if I wanted to continue to grow as a basketball player and wanted to play at the highest of levels it was something I had to do . Im extremely excited and grateful to be playing in Trier this upcoming season.

As an American what was the most difficult thing that you had to get used to to the Japan way of life?

I would have to say the bowing and taking off of the shoes ..Lol, yeah those two things took a little getting used to.

You are the ultimate swing man at 206 cm that can rebound, but also is very quick and can create massive mismatches at the position three. Where do you feel more comfortable at the three or four?

Honestly I feel comfortable at both positions. I feel that with my size and skill set I can contribute to a team at either of the two positions.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt get noticed right away?

I would say my ability to play defense and block shots.

How excited are you about playing for coach Hendrik Rodl at TBB Trier? Do you remember watching the 1993 NCAA March madness where North Carolina Won? Rodl was on the winning team that won it all?

Im very excited about playing for Coach Hendrik Rodl. Its not often you get the chance to play for a coach that has had so much success as a player and as a coach. Im looking forward to learning as much as I can from him! Yeah I remember Coach winning it all in 1993!

Who was your fiercest competitor that you played against in the NCAA 2 that might be in the NBA or Europe now?

Monyea Pratt from Stillman College we played in the same conference and he always played real hard and was a good ball player. He plays pro ball in Germany now.

As a rookie you played in Norway for Bergin. What was your wake up call to professional basketball in Europe as a rookie?


The wakeup call was everyone that I was playing with and against could really play there were no breaks every night you had to come ready to play

In your second season, you got experience in the D-league playing for Sioux Falls Skyforce and Reno Bighorns (D-League). What experience will you never forget in the D-league?

Yeah when I got back from Korea I spent about a month in the D-League and really enjoyed it. I will never forget the NBA style of play.

The United States have many stars on the Olympic team. Who will be the MVP of the team in their quest for the gold?

Kobe Bryant

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Safe House



Stefon Jackson signs contract with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven - by Moritz Korff

BBL team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven has announced the signing of Stefon Jackson (196-G-85, college: UTEP). The 27-year-old Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, native was handed a contract until the end of the year 2012.
Jackson spent his college career at UTEP (NCAA D1) and averaged 24.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals as a senior back in 2008-2009.
During his first year overseas he played in Turkey and Greece, followed by two seasons in Belgium. In 2011-12 he had 33 appearances in the Belgian League (11.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.4spg) and also saw action in 12 games of the EuroChallenge, averaging 11.5 points, 6.8 boards and 2.3 assists for his team Okapi Aalstar.


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

GREECE

Dimitris Haritopoulos returns to PAOK - by Giorgos Diploidis

Dimitris Haritopoulos (206-F/C-83, agency: Interperformances) returns to PAOK Thessaloniki after the period between 2006-08. Haritopoulos before to sign for first time with the team of Soulis Markopoulos was playing for the city rivals Aris. Last period started with Marousi but the financial problems of the club of Athens led them to France and ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket There in 14 matches had 7.4ppg and 3rpg.





The announcement:

"PAOK Thessaloniki basketball club announces that it reached a deal with Dimitris Haritopoulos for the season 2012-13. Dimitris Charitopoulos played again in our club for two years (2006-08). He took part in the pre-season training of PAOK Thessaloniki until the first friendly game of the club and he returns to the teams program starting from tomorrow".


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

HOLLAND

Standings - Promotie Divisie Prom.Divisie Standings  1. De Groene 2-0   2. De Hoppers 2-0   3. Orca's Urk 2-0   4. Binnenland 1-0   5. UBALL 1-0   6. Punch 1-1   7. BC Apollo 2 1-1   8. Leiden 2 1-1   9. Rotterdam 2 1-1   10. Almonte 0-1   11. MSV/Zeemacht 0-1   12. Almere P. 0-2   13. Cangeroes 0-2   14. Red Giants 0-2  Regular Season: Round 2 Sep. 29: Red Giants - Orca's Urk 83-92 Sep. 29: De Hoppers - Cangeroes 81-71 Sep. 30: Binnenland - BC Apollo 2 74-62 Sep. 30: Rotterdam 2 - Almonte 72-64 Sep. 30: De Groene - Punch 67-58 Sep. 29: Leiden 2 - Almere P. 66-55 Regular Season: Round 3 Oct. 6: Almere P. - MSV/Zeemacht Oct. 6: Almere P. - Punch Oct. 6: Cangeroes - Leiden 2 Oct. 6: De Hoppers - De Groene Oct. 6: Orca''s Urk - Binnenland Oct. 6: UBALL - Red Giants Oct. 6: BC Apollo 2 - Rotterdam 2

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

IRELAND

Standings - EBS Division I Division 1 Standings North  1. Ballina 0-0   2. Ballon 0-0   3. Donegal 0-0   4. Dublin Thunder 0-0   5. Templeogue 0-0   6. Ulster Elks 0-0  South  1. Blue Demons 0-0   2. Fr.Mathews 0-0   3. Kilkenny 0-0   4. Maree 0-0   5. St.Marys 0-0   6. Titans BC 0-0

Trotters pro career starts at Dublin Thunder - by Eurobasket

Dublin Thunder (Division 1) tabbed 23-year old American guard Jabari Trotter (185-89). Trotter just graduated from Dartmouth (NCAA). In 30 games last season he averaged 6.2ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.7apg.
So his pro career will start in Ireland.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

ISRAEL

Israel's Gal Mekel high on Utah Jazz's radar - by David Pick

Following a disappointing personal summer campaign with Israel's national team, former Israeli League championship-winning point guard Gal Mekel has blipped onto the NBA's radar and earned a late invitation for training camp from the Utah Jazz, according to a report from ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

But Mekel could not get his working visa in time and it appears he will be forced to miss out on the exciting opportunity.

The ex-Wichita State playmaker, who averaged 6.3 points and 3.7 assists last season for Italian power Benetton Treviso, impressed Jazz officials with his outstanding court vision, quickness, passing skills and leadership during workouts held last week.

Yet shortly after the Jazz informed Mekel that they wanted to bring him to camp, the Israeli national received word that the status of his working visa required him to leave the United States to secure his Italian letter of clearance and then return to Salt Lake City. It's a process which realistically would have taken Mekel several days to complete, forcing him to miss a good part of Utah's camp.

Earlier this summer, the 24-year-old Mekel entertained several high-level European offers from Israel and Spain before consulting Cleveland's Omri Casspi his national-team teammate and close friend, about his future.

Casspi, the first Israeli player to ever play in the NBA, trained in Florida early in his career at the Pro Training Center near Tampa and suggested Mekel should do the same.

Throughout his career, Mekel also played for Israeli League power Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Altshuler Galil/Gilboa, with whom he won the Israeli title (2010).


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

ITALY

LA Lakers add Douglas-Roberts to their roster, ex SAIE3 BO - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Lakers added to their roster 25-year old guard Chris Douglas-Roberts (201-95kg-87, college: Memphis). Douglas-Roberts played last season at SAIE3 Bologna in Italian SerieA. In 34 SerieA games last year he recorded 12.3ppg and 3.0rpg. A very spectacular season in his career as he Italian SerieA All-Star Game. In 2008 he was drafted by New Jersey Nets in second round (40th overall).
Douglas-Roberts attended University of Memphis and it will be his fifth season in pro basketball.
He has played previously for two other NBA teams: Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Israel's Gal Mekel high on Utah Jazz's radar - by David Pick

Following a disappointing personal summer campaign with Israel's national team, former Israeli League championship-winning point guard Gal Mekel has blipped onto the NBA's radar and earned a late invitation for training camp from the Utah Jazz, according to a report from ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

But Mekel could not get his working visa in time and it appears he will be forced to miss out on the exciting opportunity.

The ex-Wichita State playmaker, who averaged 6.3 points and 3.7 assists last season for Italian power Benetton Treviso, impressed Jazz officials with his outstanding court vision, quickness, passing skills and leadership during workouts held last week.

Yet shortly after the Jazz informed Mekel that they wanted to bring him to camp, the Israeli national received word that the status of his working visa required him to leave the United States to secure his Italian letter of clearance and then return to Salt Lake City. It's a process which realistically would have taken Mekel several days to complete, forcing him to miss a good part of Utah's camp.

Earlier this summer, the 24-year-old Mekel entertained several high-level European offers from Israel and Spain before consulting Cleveland's Omri Casspi his national-team teammate and close friend, about his future.

Casspi, the first Israeli player to ever play in the NBA, trained in Florida early in his career at the Pro Training Center near Tampa and suggested Mekel should do the same.

Throughout his career, Mekel also played for Israeli League power Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Altshuler Galil/Gilboa, with whom he won the Israeli title (2010).


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

KOSOVO

Standings - Superleague SuperLeague Standings  1. Bashkimi 1-0   2. Peja 1-0   3. Kolegji Univer. 0-0   4. Kosova 0-0   5. Sigal Prishtina 0-0   6. Trepca 0-0   7. RTV 21 0-1   8. Vellaznimi 0-1  Regular Season: Round 1 Sep. 29: Bashkimi - Vellaznimi 98-65 Sep. 30: Peja - RTV 21 123-46 Oct. 3: Sigal Prishtina - Kosova Oct. 3: Trepca - Kolegji Univer.

Peja crashes RTV 21 - by Dren Shporta

Dardan Berisha (193-SG-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) has started perfectly in Kosovo Super League with his new/ old team Peja. He was team's main scorer and unstoppable, while added 30 points in his first game.

The other transfer of Peja, Gerti Shima, has also contributed highly in his new club, while scoring 24 points for Peja's first victory of the season against RTV 21, 123-46.

On the other side, RTV 21, Albatrit Berisha was fighting to do something for his new team. He scored 14 points that were not enough for winning neither quarter.

Peja will play former champions Sigal Prishtina in the second round of BKT Super League, which will be the derby of the gameweek.


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

LATVIA

Ventspils bring in Vernon Teel - by Eurobasket News

Ventspils invited Vernon Teel (193-G-87, college: Loyola Mary). The guard will be tested during a try-out period. Vernon Teel spent the previous season in England. He played for the London Leopards. The guard notched 23.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, 8.9 assists and 3.1 steals per game in EBL. Vernon Teel led his team to the title. He was named All-British EBL Division One Finals MVP. The guard was also trumped All-British EBL Division One Co-Player of the Year. It was the first pro season for Vernon Teel. He graduated from Loyola Marymount in 2011. The guard notched 12.8 points, 5.7 boards, 3.8 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance in his senior season.


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

LEBANON

Lebanon finished Second in the WABA U16 Championship - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

Lebanon finished 2nd in the WABA U16 Championship which was held in Jordan from 26 till 28 October 2012. Lebanon played in the last day against the Host team Jordan, Lebanon who wanted this game badly to secure the 2nd place and Jordan was looking for its first win in the Championship.


The game saw a small dominance of Lebanon but it was always a very close game till its last minutes when Lebanon managed under the commands of Coach Joe Mojaess to secure a very important win in the young international careers of the Lebanese Players.
Peter Francis the teams leader had another big game, he finished with 18 points, He was helped by Ahmad Sbaiti who had in the end 12 points. Another big reason of Lebanons win was the teams point guard Karl Assi who had a big game with 7 points, 6 steals and 6 assists; he had a major role in helping his teammates to win the game.


Despite having only 8 practices, the Lebanese youth national teams one more time proved that the Lebanese players are very talented but needs more attention and good vision from the LBF to regain back the supremacy of Basketball in WABA and to play the major roles in Asia.


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

MEXICO

McSwine's 45 points lead Los Titanes de Los Mochis past Manzanillo - by Eurobasket Center

CIBANORO. Los Titanes de Los Mochis have yet to play a game with a complete team. This was the case again Saturday night in their match against Los Atuneros de Manzanillo. Three players from their starting five lineup were absent from the team due to previous engagements. Los Titanes were able to pull off a solid 121-86 win behind a 45 point, 7 rebound and 8 assist performance from guard Damien McSwine. Jesus Angel Reatiga provided 12 points and 14 assist along with 17 points and 9 rebounds from Ramon Urias. Los Mochis will face a tough road schedule this week as they visit Tepic, Manzanillo and Colima.


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

NBA

LA Lakers add Douglas-Roberts to their roster, ex SAIE3 BO - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Lakers added to their roster 25-year old guard Chris Douglas-Roberts (201-95kg-87, college: Memphis). Douglas-Roberts played last season at SAIE3 Bologna in Italian SerieA. In 34 SerieA games last year he recorded 12.3ppg and 3.0rpg. A very spectacular season in his career as he Italian SerieA All-Star Game. In 2008 he was drafted by New Jersey Nets in second round (40th overall).
Douglas-Roberts attended University of Memphis and it will be his fifth season in pro basketball.
He has played previously for two other NBA teams: Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Carter is back at Nuggets - by Eurobasket News

Denver Nuggets add Anthony Carter (187-88kg-75, college: Hawaii) to training camp. Its actually his comeback to Nuggets as he played here before. Carter played there last season.In 22 NBA games last year he had just 2.1ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.5apg.
He has never been drafted by the NBA. But in 1998 Yakima Sun Kings selected him in first round (5th overall) in the CBA draft.
Carter attended University of Hawaii and it will be his 15th (!!!) season in pro basketball.
He has played previously professionally in other NBA teams (Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Israel's Gal Mekel high on Utah Jazz's radar - by David Pick

Following a disappointing personal summer campaign with Israel's national team, former Israeli League championship-winning point guard Gal Mekel has blipped onto the NBA's radar and earned a late invitation for training camp from the Utah Jazz, according to a report from ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

But Mekel could not get his working visa in time and it appears he will be forced to miss out on the exciting opportunity.

The ex-Wichita State playmaker, who averaged 6.3 points and 3.7 assists last season for Italian power Benetton Treviso, impressed Jazz officials with his outstanding court vision, quickness, passing skills and leadership during workouts held last week.

Yet shortly after the Jazz informed Mekel that they wanted to bring him to camp, the Israeli national received word that the status of his working visa required him to leave the United States to secure his Italian letter of clearance and then return to Salt Lake City. It's a process which realistically would have taken Mekel several days to complete, forcing him to miss a good part of Utah's camp.

Earlier this summer, the 24-year-old Mekel entertained several high-level European offers from Israel and Spain before consulting Cleveland's Omri Casspi his national-team teammate and close friend, about his future.

Casspi, the first Israeli player to ever play in the NBA, trained in Florida early in his career at the Pro Training Center near Tampa and suggested Mekel should do the same.

Throughout his career, Mekel also played for Israeli League power Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Altshuler Galil/Gilboa, with whom he won the Israeli title (2010).


Ike Diogu, ex Arecibo, is a newcomer at Phoenix Suns pre-season camp - by Eurobasket

Phoenix Suns added to their pre-season camp roster 29-year old Nigerian international power forward Ike Diogu (208-116kg-83, college: Arizona State). He is a dual citizen owning also American passport. Diogu played last summer at Capitanes de Arecibo in Puerto Rican BSN league. He managed to play in four leagues in three countries last year (!!!). In 3 Liga Americas games last season he recorded very impressive stats: 19.3ppg and 9.7rpg. Diogu also played 15 games in BSN where he averaged impressive 18.1ppg, 9.9rpg and 1.9apg. He helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. Diogu also played at Xinjiang in Chinese CBA earlier that season. In 8 CBA games he averaged impressive 23.0ppg, 8.5rpg and 1.1bpg. He contributed to his team making it to the semifinals. The other team Diogu played that season for was San Antonio. In 2 NBA games he averaged just 1.0ppg. In 2005 he was drafted by Golden State Warriors in first round (9th overall).
Diogu attended Arizona State and it will be his eighth season in pro basketball.
He was called to Nigerian Senior National Team this year. Diogu also represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) this year. His team won Qualifying Tournament in Caracas (Venezuela), where his stats were: 5 games: 16.6ppg, Reb-2 (10.8rpg), FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 82.6%.
Diogu has played also professionally in other NBA teams (New Orleans Hornets, Golden State Warriors, LA Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers and Sacramento Kings) and China (Xinjiang Flying Tige).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Eddy Curry signs at Spurs - by Eurobasket

San Antonio Spurs landed 30-year old power forward Eddy Curry (211-134kg-82) as an addition to their summer camp. Curry played most recently at Miami Heat. In 14 NBA games last season he averaged just 2.1ppg. He helped them to win the division title and Miami Heat won also NBA Championship. In 2001 Chicago Bulls selected him as fourth overall pick in NBA draft.
He has played previously for three other NBA teams: Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Stefhon Hannah agreed terms with Warriors - by Eurobasket News

Golden State Warriors strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old guard Stefhon Hannah (185-85, college: Missouri, agency: N.E.T.). Hannah played most recently at Dakota Wizards. He played in two countries last year (!!!). In 31 D-League games last season he recorded very impressive stats: 18.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.0apg and 2.0spg. Hannah helped them to end the regular season as a second best team in the league. Great season indeed as he was awarded USBasket.com All-D-League Defensive Player of the Year, Player of the YearHonorable Mention. He also played at AZS Koszalin in Polish TBL earlier that season. In 13 TBL games he averaged 13.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.2apg and 1.2spg.
Hannah has never been drafted by the NBA.
He is a very experienced player. Hannah has played also professionally in Lithuania (Siauliai), Philippines (San Mig Coffee), WBA (Marietta Storm) and other D-League team (Iowa Energy).
He attended University of Missouri until 2008 and it will be his fifth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Justin Holiday signs at Cavaliers, ex Aalstar - by Eurobasket News

Cleveland Cavaliers landed 23-year old forward Justin Holiday (198-84kg-89, college: Washington) for a training camp. Holiday played most recently at Aalstar in Belgian Ethias League. In 12 EuroChallenge games last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.6apg and 1.0spg. He also played 33 games in Ethias League where he had 7.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.4apg and 1.2spg. Holiday helped them to win the cup.
He has never been drafted by the NBA.
Holiday graduated from The University of Washington in 2011 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Morrison starts his pro career at New Orleans Hornets - by Eurobasket News

New Orleans Hornets agreed terms with 23-year old forward Dominique Morrison (198-95kg-89). Morrison just graduated from Oral Roberts University (NCAA). In 33 games last season he had very impressive stats: 20.0ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.6apg. He helped them to win the regular season and make it to the semifinals.
Morrison has never been drafted by the NBA.
As mentioned above he is just out of college, so it will be Morrisons first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Jannero Pargo joins Wizards - by Eurobasket News

Washington Wizards agreed on terms of one-year deal with 33-year old guard Jannero Pargo (187-84kg-79, college: Arkansas, agency: Priority Sports). Pargo spent pre-season at Atlanta Hawks.
Pargo has never been drafted by the NBA. But in 2002 Dodge City Legend selected him in fifth round (41st overall) in the USBL draft.
He attended The University of Arkansas and it will be his eleventh (!!!) season in pro basketball.
Pargo has played also professionally in Russia (Dynamo Moscow) and NBA (New Orleans Hornets, Chicago Bulls, LA Lakers and Toronto Raptors).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Bucks add four to training camp roster - by Eurobasket News

The Milwaukee Bucks have added four players to their roster for training camp, with one a familiar face to Wisconsin fans.

The Bucks announced Monday that former University of Wisconsin star forward Alando Tucker (6'6''-F-84, college: Wisconsin), former Bucks guard Edward Gill (6'1''-PG-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Weber St.), guard Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette) and guard Mustapha Farrakhan (6'4''-G-88, college: Virginia) have joined the club for camp.

Tucker, the former Big Ten Player of the Year and First Team All-American, joins Milwaukee after spending last season with the NBA D-Leagues Texas Legends, averaging 14.5 points per game. Tucker has played in 51 NBA games in his career with the Phoenix Suns and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Eddie Gill spent six games with the Bucks during the 2008-09 season and has averaged 3.1 points per game in 187 NBA games. Gill spent last season playing for the Townsville Crocodiles in Australia.

Greene has played in 131 NBA games in his career after being a second round selection by the Celtics in the 2005 NBA Draft. He spent last season with the Los Angeles D-Fenders of the D-League.

An undrafted free agent out of Virginia, Farrakhan spent last season in the D-League with the Bakersfield Jam.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswisconsin.com


OKC Thunder signs Walker Russell - by Eurobasket News

The Oklahoma City Thunder has added Walker Russell (6'0''-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.) to its training camp roster, bringing the roster to 19 players.

Russell, a 6-foot point guard, played in 28 games last season with Detroit and averaged three points and 2.1 assists in 12.8 minutes.

After playing at Jacksonville State, Russell spent five seasons in the NBA D-League where he averaged 15.1 points, 8.3 assists and 3.4 rebounds in 132 games.

Over the past six years, Russell has played professionally in the Dominican Republic, China, Germany, Puerto Rico, Bulgaria, Madrid and the Czech Republic.

Earlier this summer the Thunder also added Daniel Orton, Andy Rautins and DeAandre Liggins to its camp roster.

The team must trim its roster to 15 players prior to the season opener on Nov. 1.

Courtesy of http://newsok.com


Grizzlies add guards Murray, Weaver to roster - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies signed free agent guards Ronald Murray (6'4''-G-79, college: Shaw) and Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington St.), the team announced Monday.

Murray, an eight-year veteran, has averaged 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists for his career. He has played for eight other NBA teams. He scored 12.3 points per game in the D-League last season.

Weaver has averaged 5.0 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in three NBA seasons. He played in Germany last season, averaging 9.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.6 assists.

The Grizzlies' roster is up to 20 players.

Courtesy of http://ph.news.yahoo.com


76ers add Mikki Moore to training camp - by Eurobasket News

The Philadelphia 76ers announced today they have signed free agent center Mikki Moore (6'11''-C-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Nebraska) in preparation for training camp which begins on Tuesday, October 2 at Saint Josephs Universitys Hagan Arena. The Sixers training camp roster now stands at 18.

Moore (7-0, 225) has played 13 seasons in the NBA despite not being selected in the 1998 NBA Draft out of Nebraska. In 564 games with 181 starts, he has averaged 5.8 points and 3.9 rebounds in 18.2 minutes per game while shooting 55.1% from the floor. In 2006-07, Moore led the NBA in field goal percentage (.609).

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Bulls add Ryan Allen, Vance Cooksey, Andre Emmett, Kyrylo Fesenko, Marko Jaric to training camp - by Eurobasket News

The Chicago Bulls announced today the signing of free agents Ryan Allen (6'3''-G), Vance Cooksey (6'0''-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Pikeville), Andre Emmett (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Texas Tech), Kyrylo Fesenko (7'0''-C-86) and Marko Jaric (6'6''-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) to round out their 2012-13 training camp roster.

Allen (6-3, 200), a rookie guard out of UW-Milwaukee, earned Horizon League All-Defensive Team honors last year, as he averaged 8.6 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.2 apg and 1.06 spg in 29.1 mpg . A native of Chicago, Allen attended Thornton Fractional High School in Harvey, Ill. His brother Tony is a member of the Memphis Grizzlies.

Cooksey (6-0, 175) spent last season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers and the Texas Legends in the NBA D-League. In 38 D-League games, he posted 8.8 ppg, 4.8 apg, 2.6 rpg and 1.10 spg in 23.9 mpg.

Emmett (6-5, 230) split last year with the New Jersey Nets and the Reno Bighorns of the NBA D-League. In six games with the Nets last season, he recorded 2.2 ppg and 1.0 rpg in 7.5 mpg. While with the Bighorns, he averaged 23.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.70 spg and 36.7 mpg.

Fesenko (7-1, 280), a veteran of 135 NBA games (seven starts), played in three games with the Indiana Pacers last year. During his time with the Pacers, he posted 2.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg and 0.70 spg in 5.7 mpg. For his NBA career, the Ukraine native has averaged 2.3 ppg, 2.0 rpg and 8.2 mpg.

Jaric, a seven year veteran of the NBA, has previously played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota and Memphis. In 447 career games (221 starts), he has averaged 7.1 ppg, 3.6 apg, 2.7 rpg and 1.30 spg in 25.2 mpg. Jaric last played in the NBA in 2008-09, as a member of the Memphis Grizzlies. He spent the 2011-12 season with Montepaschi Siena of the Italian League.

The Bulls will open training camp today with Media Day at the Berto Center, prior to tomorrows first practices of the season.

Chicagos roster now stands at 18.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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

NCAA1

Israel's Gal Mekel high on Utah Jazz's radar - by David Pick

Following a disappointing personal summer campaign with Israel's national team, former Israeli League championship-winning point guard Gal Mekel has blipped onto the NBA's radar and earned a late invitation for training camp from the Utah Jazz, according to a report from ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

But Mekel could not get his working visa in time and it appears he will be forced to miss out on the exciting opportunity.

The ex-Wichita State playmaker, who averaged 6.3 points and 3.7 assists last season for Italian power Benetton Treviso, impressed Jazz officials with his outstanding court vision, quickness, passing skills and leadership during workouts held last week.

Yet shortly after the Jazz informed Mekel that they wanted to bring him to camp, the Israeli national received word that the status of his working visa required him to leave the United States to secure his Italian letter of clearance and then return to Salt Lake City. It's a process which realistically would have taken Mekel several days to complete, forcing him to miss a good part of Utah's camp.

Earlier this summer, the 24-year-old Mekel entertained several high-level European offers from Israel and Spain before consulting Cleveland's Omri Casspi his national-team teammate and close friend, about his future.

Casspi, the first Israeli player to ever play in the NBA, trained in Florida early in his career at the Pro Training Center near Tampa and suggested Mekel should do the same.

Throughout his career, Mekel also played for Israeli League power Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Altshuler Galil/Gilboa, with whom he won the Israeli title (2010).


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

NIGERIA

Ike Diogu, ex Arecibo, is a newcomer at Phoenix Suns pre-season camp - by Eurobasket

Phoenix Suns added to their pre-season camp roster 29-year old Nigerian international power forward Ike Diogu (208-116kg-83, college: Arizona State). He is a dual citizen owning also American passport. Diogu played last summer at Capitanes de Arecibo in Puerto Rican BSN league. He managed to play in four leagues in three countries last year (!!!). In 3 Liga Americas games last season he recorded very impressive stats: 19.3ppg and 9.7rpg. Diogu also played 15 games in BSN where he averaged impressive 18.1ppg, 9.9rpg and 1.9apg. He helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. Diogu also played at Xinjiang in Chinese CBA earlier that season. In 8 CBA games he averaged impressive 23.0ppg, 8.5rpg and 1.1bpg. He contributed to his team making it to the semifinals. The other team Diogu played that season for was San Antonio. In 2 NBA games he averaged just 1.0ppg. In 2005 he was drafted by Golden State Warriors in first round (9th overall).
Diogu attended Arizona State and it will be his eighth season in pro basketball.
He was called to Nigerian Senior National Team this year. Diogu also represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) this year. His team won Qualifying Tournament in Caracas (Venezuela), where his stats were: 5 games: 16.6ppg, Reb-2 (10.8rpg), FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 82.6%.
Diogu has played also professionally in other NBA teams (New Orleans Hornets, Golden State Warriors, LA Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers and Sacramento Kings) and China (Xinjiang Flying Tige).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

PHILIPPINES

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference PBA Standings  1. Barangay Ginebra 1-0   2. Air21 Express 0-0   3. Alaska Aces 0-0   4. Barako Bull 0-0   5. Meralco Bolts 0-0   6. Petron Blaze 0-0   7. Rain or Shine 0-0   8. San Mig Coffee 0-0   9. Talk N Text 0-0   10. Global Port 0-1  Regular Season: Round 1 Sep. 30: Barangay Ginebra - Global Port 110-90 Oct. 3: Air21 Express - Barako Bull Oct. 3: Petron Blaze - Rain or Shine Oct. 5: Meralco Bolts - Talk N Text Oct. 5: San Mig Coffee - Alaska Aces Oct. 7: Global Port - Air21 Express Oct. 7: Rain or Shine - Barangay Ginebra

PBA Stats Leaders PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Ryan WILLEN   Aalborg   (204-F/C-89)   Avg: 27  1. Willen, Aalborg 27.0   2. Ocana, Randers 25.0   3. Darboe, Svendborg 22.3   4. Bowlin, Horsens IC 22.0   5. Delaney, Aalborg 21.5   6. Rutherford, Svend. 20.7   7. Dennis, SISU 20.0   8. Walker, Naestved 19.7   9. Washington, Svend. 19.7   10. Kovacs, Horsholm 19.5  Rebounds Per Game  Randy DEZOUVRE   Aarhus BC   (195-F/G-87)   Avg: 11.3  1. Dezouvre, Aarhus 11.3   2. Rutherford, Svend. 10.3   3. Hesseldal, Horsholm 10.3   4. Washington, Svend. 9.3   5. Ocana, Randers 9.0   6. Moritz, SISU 8.7   7. Chin, Bakken 8.0   8. Willen, Aalborg 8.0   9. Jukic, Horsens IC 7.3   10. Walker, Naestved 7.3  Assists Per Game  Skyler BOWLIN   Horsens IC   (190-G-89)   Avg: 9  1. Bowlin, Horsens IC 9.0   2. Jonsson, Aarhus BC 8.5   3. Tomko, Bakken 6.7   4. Nielsen, Randers 5.0   5. Plannthin, Svend. 5.0   6. Dennis, SISU 4.7   7. Murphy, Naestved 4.7   8. Rutherford, Svend. 4.0   9. Darboe, Svendborg 4.0   10. Ortega, Randers 3.5  Steals Per Game  Skyler BOWLIN   Horsens IC   (190-G-89)   Avg: 5.3  1. Bowlin, Horsens IC 5.3   2. Walker, Naestved 3.3   3. Tomko, Bakken 2.7   4. Ocana, Randers 2.5   5. Delaney, Aalborg 2.5   6. Dezouvre, Aarhus 2.3   7. Varga, Horsens IC 2.0   8. Sorensen, Aalborg 2.0   9. Ortega, Randers 2.0   10. Plannthin, Svend. 2.0  Blocks Per Game  Keane THOMANN   Horse.   (211-C-89)   Avg: 1.7  1. Thomann, Horse. 1.7   2. Washington, Svend. 1.7   3. Smith, SISU 1.0   4. Marinkovic, Horsho. 1.0   5. Jukic, Horsens IC 1.0   6. Christoffers., Bak. 1.0   7. Chin, Bakken 0.7   8. Jensen, Bakken 0.5   9. Ocana, Randers 0.5   10. Kovacs, Horsholm 0.5

Barangay Ginebra adds Freeman to their roster, ex London L. - by Eurobasket

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (PBA) added to their roster 27-year old American forward Gabe Freeman (198-85, college: Costa Mesa JC). Freeman moved there from London Lightning in Canadian NBL where he supposed to play, but it seems he will not stay with that team after all. The last season he played for London Lightning (NBL Canada). He played in two countries last year (!!!) In 42 NBL Canada games he recorded very impressive stats: 18.1ppg, 12.2rpg, 1.7apg and 1.2spg. Freeman also played at Barako Bull earlier that season. In 7 PBA games he averaged impressive 21.7ppg, 14.0rpg, 2.7apg and 1.0spg.
He is quite experienced player. Freeman has played also professionally in Mexico (Vaqueros), PBL (Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry), Philippines (Petron Blaze and Philippine Patriots) and CBA (Albany Patroons).
He is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas.
Freeman attended Costa Mesa JC until 2007 and it will be his sixth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @pbaonline)


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

POLAND

Standings - DBE TBL Standings  1. Anwil 1-0   2. Asseco Prokom 1-0   3. PGE Turow 1-0   4. Siarka Jezioro 1-0   5. Stelmet ZG 1-0   6. Trefl Sopot 1-0   7. AZS Koszalin 0-1   8. Energa Czarni 0-1   9. Kotwica 0-1   10. Polpharma 0-1   11. Rosa Radom 0-1   12. Start Gdynia 0-1  Regular Season: Round 1 Sep. 29: Stelmet ZG - Energa Czarni 94-73 Sep. 29: Trefl Sopot - Polpharma 87-65 Sep. 29: AZS Koszalin - Siarka Jezioro 77-78 Sep. 29: Asseco Prokom - Start Gdynia 76-60 Sep. 30: Kotwica - Anwil 69-81 Sep. 29: PGE Turow - Rosa Radom 109-71 Regular Season: Round 2 Oct. 7: Polpharma - Rosa Radom Oct. 6: Energa Czarni - PGE Turow Oct. 6: Anwil - Stelmet ZG Oct. 6: Siarka Jezioro - Kotwica Oct. 6: AZS Koszalin - Asseco Prokom Oct. 6: Trefl Sopot - Start Gdynia

DBE Stats Leaders PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Michal CHYLINSKI   PGE T.   (190-G-86)   Avg: 19  1. Chylinski, PGE T. 19.0   2. Ginyard, Anwil 19.0   3. Mosley, Kotwica 17.0   4. Montgomery, Rosa 17.0   5. Micic, PGE Turow 17.0   6. Boykin, Anwil 16.0   7. Arabas, Kotwica 15.0   8. Hajric, Anwil 14.0   9. Seweryn, Anwil 14.0   10. Cel, PGE Turow 13.0  Rebounds Per Game  Ruben BOYKIN   Anwil   (201-F-85)   Avg: 10  1. Boykin, Anwil 10.0   2. Cel, PGE Turow 9.0   3. Kulig, PGE Turow 8.0   4. Ginyard, Anwil 7.0   5. Niedzwiedzki, Kotw. 6.0   6. Montgomery, Rosa 5.0   7. Zigeranovic, PGE T. 5.0   8. Bogavac, Rosa R. 5.0   9. Szubarga, Anwil 5.0   10. Mosley, Kotwica 5.0  Assists Per Game  Krzysztof SZUBARGA   Anwil   (182-PG-84)   Avg: 7  1. Szubarga, Anwil 7.0   2. Mosley, Kotwica 6.0   3. Micic, PGE Turow 5.0   4. Jackson, PGE Turow 4.0   5. Zyskowski, Kotwica 3.0   6. Jefferson, Kotwica 3.0   7. Zigeranovic, PGE T. 3.0   8. Kulig, PGE Turow 3.0   9. Ginyard, Anwil 2.0   10. Vasojevic, Rosa R. 2.0  Steals Per Game  David JACKSON   PGE Turow   (193-G-86)   Avg: 3  1. Jackson, PGE Turow 3.0   2. Micic, PGE Turow 2.0   3. Montgomery, Rosa 2.0   4. Bolden, Kotwica 2.0   5. Mosley, Kotwica 2.0   6. Kardas, Rosa Radom 2.0   7. Ginyard, Anwil 2.0   8. Arabas, Kotwica 2.0   9. Bogavac, Rosa R. 1.0   10. Vasojevic, Rosa R. 1.0  Blocks Per Game  Ivan OPACAK   PGE Turow   (201-SG-80)   Avg: 1  1. Opacak, PGE Turow 1.0   2. Wichniarz, PGE T. 1.0   3. Boykin, Anwil 1.0   4. Wright, Anwil 1.0   5. Niedzwiedzki, Kotw. 1.0   6. Micic, PGE Turow 1.0   7. Bogavac, Rosa R. 1.0   8. Jackson, PGE Turow 0.0   9. Djuric, Kotwica 0.0   10. Cupkovic, Rosa R. 0.0

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

QATAR

Qatar edge Saudi Arabia for initial win in Manama - by Eurobasket News

Qatar - Saudi Arabia 66:60

Qatar opened their title defence at Arabian Gulf Cup in Manama with victory. They overcame Saudi Arabia for initial victory. Qatar stayed well control of the game. They recorded a 43:31 halftime lead. Saudi Arabia cut the deficit to 7 points heading into the fourth frame. The Saudis managed to outscore their opponents in the fourth frame but stopped short of victory at the end. Saudi Arabia suffered the second loss in as many games played at the tournament. Qatar will take on UAE on Wednesday, while Saudi Arabia will take two days off before facing UAE on Thursday.


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

ROMANIA

ES Sahel tabs Bryson McKenzie, ex CSM Bucuresti - by Eurobasket News

Etoile du Sahel (Division I) inked 29-year old American center Bryson McKenzie (211-104kg-83, college: N.Illinois). McKenzie played most recently at CSM Bucuresti in Romanian Division A. In 31 Division A games last season he averaged 9.4ppg, 8.6rpg and 1.7bpg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals. Three years ago (three years after he left the college) McKenzie was drafted by Idaho Stampede (D-League) in seventh round (111th overall).
He attended Northern Illinois University until 2006 and it will be his seventh season in pro basketball.
McKenzies team made it to the IBL Semifinals in 2010.
He is a very experienced player. McKenzie has played also professionally in Germany (ratiopharm Ulm and Karlsruhe), Hungary (Szedeak), Mexico (Cosmos), D-League (Idaho Stampede and Springfield Armor) and IBL (Vancouver Volcanoes and Bellingham Slam).

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @TotalBaschet)


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

RWANDA

Standings D1 Standings  1. 30 Plus 0-0   2. APR BBC 0-0   3. CSK 0-0   4. Espoir 0-0   5. KIE BBC 0-0   6. Kigali BC 0-0   7. Rusizi BC 0-0   8. UGB 0-0   9. UNR BBC 0-0

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

SAUDI ARABIA

Qatar edge Saudi Arabia for initial win in Manama - by Eurobasket News

Qatar - Saudi Arabia 66:60

Qatar opened their title defence at Arabian Gulf Cup in Manama with victory. They overcame Saudi Arabia for initial victory. Qatar stayed well control of the game. They recorded a 43:31 halftime lead. Saudi Arabia cut the deficit to 7 points heading into the fourth frame. The Saudis managed to outscore their opponents in the fourth frame but stopped short of victory at the end. Saudi Arabia suffered the second loss in as many games played at the tournament. Qatar will take on UAE on Wednesday, while Saudi Arabia will take two days off before facing UAE on Thursday.


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

SOUTH AFRICA

Mark Cuban calls, Josh Akognon answers - by Elvis Dickson

Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-G-86, college: CS Fullerton) confirmed Wednesday that he will open training camp with the Dallas Mavericks in a week and a half. His decision to sign on with the Mavs was based largely on an old adage: It's good to have friends in high places.

After a strong summer-league performance with the Sacramento Kings in Las Vegas, Akognon who starred at Casa Grande High before playing at Washington State, Cal State Fullerton and with several professional teams overseas had been wooed by at least seven NBA teams. They included the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks and San Antonio Spurs, in addition to the Mavericks and Kings.

What led him to Dallas?

Mark Cuban, was Akognon's two-word answer.

The sharp-shooting Akognon led the Kings with a 19.3-point scoring average during the summer. And after one particularly strong game against the Lakers, he said, his agent got a congratulatory call from the Mavericks owner.

He said he felt I could be a much better Eddie House, Akognon said, referring to the 11-year NBA veteran. He talked about how they had just lost Jason Terry, and they had lost J.J. Barea the year before. Those guys were not true point guards, either, but they were able to learn the position. For him to have that much enthusiasm in my game no other owner was calling my agent.

Akognon was a shooting guard in college. But because he's considered short for the position at 5-foot-11, teams have been shaping him into a point guard for the past few years.
The project will resume Sept.29 when the Mavericks open training camp. (Because they play in international preseason games at Berlin and Barcelona, the Mavericks can open three days earlier than most NBA teams.) Akognon will be rubbing elbows, and perhaps trading them, with the likes of Dirk Nowitzki, Vince Carter, O.J. Mayo and Elton Brand.
Akognon leaves Sunday for Dallas. Four days after that, his wife, the former Ariana Scales, is being inducted into the Topeka West High School athletic hall of fame back in Kansas. Yes, it's an exciting month for the Akognons.

As a non-roster invitee, though, Josh knows it will be an uphill battle to make the team. One reason the Mavs wanted Akognon is because they feared they were losing guard Delonte West to free agency. After the Petaluma native agreed with Dallas, the team re-signed West.
When Delonte signed, I was feeling lost in the shuffle, Akognon said. But right now, I feel it's more of a business decision. They have 15 on the roster. At the same time, you never know with injuries and all that.

Akognon has a couple of safety nets. First, the Mavericks promised that he would play in two or three preseason games, targeting contests against the Hawks, Suns and Rockets as most likely. So the rest of the NBA's scouts and coaches will get a look at him.
More important, should things not work out in Dallas, Akognon can return to the China Basketball Associaiton, where he played last year. The CBA gave Akognon an out clause, a rarity in that league.

He can void his Chinese contract if he makes an NBA roster. If he doesn't, he can't play for any team in the world but Liaoning (last year he played for DongGuan).
Which wouldn't be the end of the world.

Akognon earns in the neighborhood of $100,000 a month in China. During training camp with the Mavs, he'll be pulling in more like $23,000 a month.
Because of the disparity, the pragmatic Akognon considered turning down the offer. He was encouraged by his father, Emmanuel, and by long-time mentor Jeremy Russotti (his coach at Casa Grande) to give the Mavericks a shot. They stressed that a short-term financial loss could be a long-term gain if Josh were able to latch on with an NBA team.
I have nothing to lose and everything to gain, Akognon said. I'm really looking two or three weeks down the road, and a couple years down the road.


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

SPAIN

Lagun Aro close to Derrick Low - by Eurobasket News

Lagun Aro is targeting Derrick Low (188-PG-86, college: Washington St.). The Spanish club may land the guard soon. Derrick Low started the season in Dnipro. However he is reportedly not fully satisfied with the team not participating in any European Cups. The guard tallied 12.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists per game in Superleague last season. In VTB League his stats read 15.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance. In two games this season Derrick Low posted 20.5 points, 5.5 assists and 2.5 rebounds per appearance. Previously Derrick Low played Israel, Lithuania and Australia. He was named All-Lithuanian LKL Import Player of the Year in 2010. Derrick Low may join his last season's teammate Qyntel Woods (203-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) in Lagun Aro.


Spanish ACB round 1 best performance: Nedzad Sinanovic - by Eurobasket News

Center Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) had an amazing evening for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 1. The 29-year old player had a double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat FCB Regal (0-1) 78-71 at Palau Blaugrana. Sinanovic turned to be Valladolid's top player in his first season with the team.

The second best player was 27-year old American Emmanuel Quezada (188-PG-85) of FIATC Joventut. Quezada had a very good evening with 27 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. He led FIATC Joventut to comfortable win 89-73 over Lagun Aro GBC (0-1) being unquestionably team leader. Quezada is a newcomer at FIATC Joventut, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Spencer Nelson (202-F/C-80) of G.Canaria 2014. Nelson showcased his all-around game by recording 17 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of G.Canaria 2014, leading his team to a 65-59 win against Gescrap BB (0-1).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marcus Lewis (203-F/C-86) of UCAM Murcia - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Levon Kendall (209-F-84) of Blusens M. - 23 points and 4 rebounds
6. Andres Rodriguez (184-PG-81) of Blusens M. - 12 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists
7. Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79) of Asefa Estudian. - 10 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Jayson Granger (186-G-89) of Asefa Estudian. - 25 points and 3 assists
9. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) of FCB Regal - 14 points and 10 rebounds
10. Albert Oliver (187-G-78) of FIATC Joventut - 15 points and 8 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)


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

SWEDEN

Esian Henderson is new at LF - by Andreas Eriksson

LF Basket made a change in their roster, as they decided they needed more size they decided to replace SG Rod Wilmont with a bigger player in PF Esian Henderson (204-F/C-86, college: Central Mo.). Wilmont played with the team in the pre-season and showed very good defensive skills and was very popular in the team but Coach Barton felt the team needed to get bigger, and get another player in the insiderotation and had no choice but to make the move. Instead in comes Henderson who should start at the PF position, team hopes he will provide rebounding, and scoring both inside and outside.


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

SYRIA

Syrian U16 National Team 2012 Roster - by Eurobasket Center

Ronaldo Shammas

Mouhammad Wahid Rajjob

Naser Husain

Mayyar Diab

Laith Hajj-Ali

Anas Kairawan

Yousef Khodeir

Carl Egho

Mouhammad Hadri

Khalil Khoury

Jerji Doumet

Nouri Rashid

Tane Spasev

Head Coach

Odai Khabbaz

Assistant

George Shakar

Assistant

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

TUNISIA

ES Sahel tabs Bryson McKenzie, ex CSM Bucuresti - by Eurobasket News

Etoile du Sahel (Division I) inked 29-year old American center Bryson McKenzie (211-104kg-83, college: N.Illinois). McKenzie played most recently at CSM Bucuresti in Romanian Division A. In 31 Division A games last season he averaged 9.4ppg, 8.6rpg and 1.7bpg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals. Three years ago (three years after he left the college) McKenzie was drafted by Idaho Stampede (D-League) in seventh round (111th overall).
He attended Northern Illinois University until 2006 and it will be his seventh season in pro basketball.
McKenzies team made it to the IBL Semifinals in 2010.
He is a very experienced player. McKenzie has played also professionally in Germany (ratiopharm Ulm and Karlsruhe), Hungary (Szedeak), Mexico (Cosmos), D-League (Idaho Stampede and Springfield Armor) and IBL (Vancouver Volcanoes and Bellingham Slam).

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @TotalBaschet)


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

TURKEY

Ernest Bremer agreed terms with Fener.Ulker - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (TBL) inked 32-year old Bosnian guard Ernest Bremer (194-93kg-80, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Higher Vision Sports). Bremer played most recently at EA7 Armani in Italian SerieA. He managed to play in three leagues in two countries last year (!!!). In 21 SerieA games last season he recorded 8.7ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.4apg. Bremer helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. He also played at N.Novgorod in Russian PBL earlier that season. In 8 PBL games he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.6rpg and 3.5apg. Bremer also played 20 games in EuroChallenge where he averaged 13.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 5.1apg and 1.3spg.
Bremer attended St.Bonaventure University and it will be his eleventh (!!!) season in pro basketball. He represented Bosnia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2009 four years ago. His stats at that event were 6 games: 8.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 47.8%.
Bremer is a very experienced player. He has played also professionally in Spain (Unicaja Malaga), NBA (Golden State Warriors), Bosnia (Bosna ASA BHT), Russia (Krasnie Krilya, Spartak Primorie Vladivostok and Triumph Lyubertsy) and Italy (Angelico Biella).

By Eurobasket Data Center (Via @SportandoBasket)


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

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Jazz give Bell roster spot despite estrangement - by David Edole

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The Utah Jazz will open training camp Tuesday with 19 players on their roster, including disgruntled guard Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU, though the team and his agent have mutually agreed the 35-year-old should not attend.

The team is allotted 20 spots for camp but must trim its roster to 15 before the regular season starts.

Bell is taking up one of those spots. He is scheduled to make $3.5 million in the final year of his contract but has publicly feuded with head coach Tyrone Corbin and indicated the relationship had suffered "irreparable damage."

Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey Friday said the two sides mutually agreed it was in the "best interest" of both parties that Bell not rejoin the team.

Efforts to finalize a buyout have not been successful.

Bell averaged 6.4 points in 34 games last season for the Jazz. He started 33 of those games but had his minutes decreased by Corbin, from 30.8 a game in 2010-11 to 23.4 last year.


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

UGANDA

Ikong, Enabu lead Power past Falcons - by Joel Nature

Jimmy Enabu scored 9 of his 14 points and Joseph Ikong added 8 of his game high 18 points in the final quarter to lead Dmark Power to a 79-75 win over Falcons on Friday night at YMCA.

Power (16-5) took the opening period 23-16 but Falcons (18-3) won the second with a similar margin to go into half time tied at 34. Philp Ameny (16 points, 11 rebounds) scored half of Falcons third quarter points as the league leaders took a 50-46 lead to the

final quarter.

Big man, Isaac Afidra (11 points) opened the final period for Power with a long range jumper as the teams matched shot-for-shot and game was tied at 60 with 6:38. A 3-pointer from Steven Omony (10 points, 8 rebounds) and two throws from Philp Ameny took Falcons up by 5 however a non-contested shot from Ikong and a lay-up from Enabu brought Power within 2 and Ben Komakech (13 points, 10 assists) hit a go-ahead trey with 4:37.

Abdulrahim Ramadhan restored Falcons lead but didnt last as Komakech put the defending champions back in the lead on the next possession and two foul shots from Ikong plus a roll-in from Enabu took Power 74-69 up with 2:37. Falcons came within 75-77, 1:02 to the final buzzer but an open court dunk from Ikong 26 seconds later was the final dagger that finished off the Falcons as Omony and Ramadhans game tying mid-range shots had attracted steel.

Power were edged out on the boards 37-36 but limited themselves to 16 turnovers compared to falcons 20. Point guard, Geoffrey Omondi was ejected with 3:18 in the third quarter and will miss Falcons last game of the regular season against KIU Titans.

If the loss surprised anyone, certainly it was not Falcons coach, Gad Eteu. We respect those guys a lot. Plus they are defending champions. They have a very good way of responding to challenges, he said before the game.

In the womens division, KCCA Leopards guard, Flavia Oketcho had an explosive game dropping 29 points in the 73-51 blow-out victory over KIU Rangers. Jackie basemera and Martha Soigi contributed 10 and 11 points respectively for Leopards. Florence Nanyonga led Rangers with 17 points and 16 boards. Judith Nansobya added 13 points.


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

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Bahrain rally past UAE for second straight win at Arabian Gulf Cup - by Eurobasket News

Bahrain - UAE 93:74

Bahrain stayed on the winning track at Arabian Gulf Cup. They claimed the second win in a row at the tournament. Bahrain overcame UAE at the Zain Basketball Arena. Ahmed Al-Dirazi stepped up with 20 points to lead the charge.
Bahrain led from start to finish. They dominated in every facet of the game. The margin would go as deep as 24 points in the second half as Bahrain coasted to the victory. Mohammed Hassan (194-F/G-80) provided 16 points for the winners. Ahmed Malallah (188-F-71) netted 12 points, while CJ Giles contributed 9 in the victory. Rashed Al Zaabi (189-G-88) answered with 18 points for UAE. Ebrahim Khalfan and Qais Alshabebi (200-F-91) netted 16 points each in the losing effort.

Bahrain: Ahmed Al-Dirazi 20, Mohammed Hassan 16, Ahmed Malallah 12
UAE: Rashed Al Zaabi 18, Ebrahim Khalfan 16, Qais Alshabebi 16





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

Women News

Standings Adriatic League Standings  1. PEAC-PECS 3-0   2. Celik 2-0   3. Partizan 2-0   4. Radivoj Korac 2-0   5. Mladi Krajisnik 1-0   6. Athlete Celje 1-1   7. Vojvodina 1-2   8. Novi Zagreb 0-1   9. Ilrija 0-2   10. Sloboda 0-2   11. Vozdovac 0-2   12. Vrsac 0-2  Regular Season: Round 2 Sep. 29: PEAC-PECS - Sloboda 90-47 Sep. 29: Celik - Hemofarm 84-53 Oct. 1: Radivoj Korac - Vojvodina 74-68 Sep. 30: Partizan - Vozdovac 71-68 Sep. 29: Ilrija - Athlete Celje 68-80 Sep. 30: Mladi Krajisnik - Novi Zagreb

Stats Leaders PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Jovana POPOVIC   Vojvodina   (173-G-90)   Avg: 21  1. Popovic, Vojvodina 21.0   2. Jovanovic, Partizan 18.0   3. Katic, Vozdovac 16.5   4. Radovic, Vozdovac 16.5   5. Radocaj, Partizan 16.0   6. Orozovic, Athlete 15.5   7. Colic, Radivoj Kor. 15.5   8. Jaeschke, PE. 15.0   9. Tavic, Ilrija 15.0   10. Lisec, Athlete Ce. 13.5  Rebounds Per Game  Marica GAJIC   Athlete Celje   (187-C-95)   Avg: 12.5  1. Gajic, Athlete Cel. 12.5   2. Jaeschke, PE. 10.7   3. Jovanovic, Radivo. 9.5   4. Szamosi, PE. 8.3   5. Horvath, PE. 8.0   6. Orozovic, Athlete 7.5   7. Baltic, Partizan 7.5   8. Ivancevic, Vojvo. 7.5   9. Marjanovic, Vrsac 7.0   10. Radovic, Vozdovac 7.0  Assists Per Game  Jovana POPOVIC   Vojvodina   (173-G-90)   Avg: 5.3  1. Popovic, Vojvodina 5.3   2. Vrancic, Vozdovac 5.0   3. Furesz, PE. 4.7   4. Latinovic, Sloboda 4.5   5. Colic, Radivoj Kor. 4.0   6. Orozovic, Athlete 3.5   7. Radocaj, Partizan 3.0   8. Panic, Ilrija 3.0   9. Stankovic, Partizan 3.0   10. Stupar, Vojvodina 2.7  Steals Per Game  Tina JOVANOVIC   Radivo.   (190-F/C-91)   Avg: 4.5  1. Jovanovic, Radivo. 4.5   2. Kovacevic, Vozdov. 4.0   3. Popovic, Vojvodina 4.0   4. Stankovic, Sloboda 4.0   5. Vrancic, Vozdovac 3.5   6. Abramovic, Athlet. 3.5   7. Dabovic, Partizan 3.5   8. Ivancevic, Vojvo. 3.0   9. Kajtaz, Sloboda 3.0   10. Latinovic, Sloboda 3.0  Blocks Per Game  Dragana STANKOVIC   Sloboda   (188-PF-95)   Avg: 4  1. Stankovic, Sloboda 4.0   2. Jaeschke, PE. 2.7   3. Ivancevic, Vojvo. 1.5   4. Radovic, Vozdovac 1.0   5. Radic, Vrsac 1.0   6. Antic, Partizan 1.0   7. Furesz, PE. 0.7   8. Barbour, PE. 0.7   9. Jaksic, Vrsac 0.5   10. Marjanovic, Vrsac 0.5

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

ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

Standings Standings Group A 1. China 3-0 2. Japan 2-1 3. S.Korea 2-1 4. Taiwan 1-2 5. Thailand 1-2 6. Malaysia 0-3 Group B 1. India 3-0 2. Hong Kong 2-1 3. Singapore 2-1 4. Sri Lanka 1-2 5. Kazakhstan. 1-2 6. Uzbekistan. 0-3 Preliminary Round: Round 3 A Oct. 1: TAI - THA 74-58 Oct. 1: KOR - MAS 71-55 Oct. 1: JPN - CHN 67-73 B Oct. 1: IND - HKG 76-67 Oct. 1: SIN - SRI 55-46 Oct. 1: KAZ - UZB 20-0 Preliminary Round: Round 4 A Oct. 2: THA - JPN Oct. 2: MAS - TAI Oct. 2: CHN - KOR B Oct. 2: UZB - IND Oct. 2: HKG - SIN Oct. 2: SRI - KAZ

Day 3 in Johor Bahru - by Eurobasket News

Level I

South Korea - Malaysia 71-55
South Korea posted the second victory at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame hosting Malaysia for 2-1 record in Level I ladder. Malaysia suffered the third loss in a row. Kang Leeseul (180-F-94) came up with 19 points to pace the winners. Malaysia opened the game with five points in a row but South Korea quickly gained necessary tempo. They posted a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. South Korea boosted the margin in the second quarter. They piled up a 37:25 halftime lead. The visitors kept Malaysia at bay throughout the third frame. The Korean team entered the fourth quarter up by 13 points. They limited Malaysia to 15 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Kim Minjeong (180-C-94) accounted for 15 points, while Choi Eunsil added 14 points for the winners. Phey Chi Low (170-G-94) answered with 17 points for Malaysia. Shi yeng Ng had 14 points and 11 rebounds in defeat.

Japan - China 67-73
China registered the third straight win at U18 Asia Championship. The defending champions held off ambitious Japan to stay undefeated. Gong Li (187-F-95) accounted for 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. China held their opponents to 12 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. Japan adjusted offensively and struck right back in the second quarter. They fired 25 points to ensure a 37:32 halftime lead. China made necessary arrangements in the big break and turned things around in the third quarter. They limited Japan to 8 points and snatched a 51:45 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Japan drew things level at 56 midway through the final frame. But China went on a 7:0 run to take a 9-point lead with under three minutes remaining. They withheld comeback efforts from Japan to seal the victory at the end. Hu Yaoming (191-F/C-95) posted 14 points, while Zhang Liting added 12 points in the victory. Yuki Kitamura (170-G-94) answered with 26 points for Japan. Mirai Tamura netted 13 points in the loss.

Taiwan - Thailand 74-58
Taiwan registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Thailand to catch up with their opponents at 1-2 record in the ladder. Lin Yu-Ting (183-F-94) came up with 24 points to pace the winners. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the first quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Taiwan put their noses in front in the second frame. They squeezed out a 35:34 halftime lead. The intensity stayed the same in the second half. Taiwan entered the fourth quarter up by just a single point 50:49. But they finally broke through in the fourth quarter igniting a 24:9 run to win the game. Lin Wen-Yu (178-C-95) notched 12 points, while Huang Ling-Chuan added 10 points for the winners. Sirirak Daenkaewmoon (170-G-94) answered with 15 points for Thailand. Supira Kianbut had 13 points in the loss.

Level II

Singapore - Sri Lanka 55-46
Singapore clinched the second win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Sri Lanka to catch up with Hong Kong in the second position at Level II ladder. Lim Alanna (172-C-94) posted 10 points and 12 rebounds to pace Singapore. Singapore jumped to a 12:9 lead after ten minutes. They fired 19 points in the second quarter to boost their lead. Singapore arrived at halftime up by 15 points 31:16. They maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. Singapore entered the fourth period up by as many as 17 points 46:29. Sri Lanka refused to give up and outscored Singapore in the final frame. But the margin proved too deep to overcome as Singapore secured the victory. Han Priscilla (170-F-94) netted 10 points, while Chua Violet and See Shermaine added 8 points each in the win. Anne Ravindran (156-F-96) answered with 18 points for Sri Lanka. Pooja Marasinghege delivered 12 points in the loss.

India - Hong Kong 76-67
Poonam Chaturvedi (204-C-95) carries India over Hong Kong in the start of Day 3 at the U18 Asia Championship. She erupted with 32 points and 17 rebounds as India beat Hong Kong 76:67. India improved to 3-0 record in Group B, while Hong Kong suffered their first loss and dropped at 2-1 record. India started with 19-13 lead and led 6 points at the halftime. They needed a 20-16 surge in the second frame to take 57:47 lead at the end of the third period. Hong Kong managed to win the last perid 20-19 and reduced to final 9 points. Sharanjeet Kaur (165-F-96) collected 16 points and 16 rebounds, while Jeena added 8 points and 15 boards. Rajguru Sneha followed them with 8 points. Wong Ka Yee (172-F-94) erupted with 30 points in the losing effort and Li Tsz Kwan added 14.


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

BELGIUM

Copeland's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

27-year old guard Kirby Copeland (182-G-85, agency: LBM Management) had an amazing evening for Castors Braine and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 1.
She had a double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds, while her team outclassed Jeugd Gentson (0-1) with 26-point margin 65-39. Copeland turned to be Castors Braine's top player in her first season with the team.

Second best performed player was Dana Boonen (195-C-79) of Kangoeroes-B.. She is former international center in her 3rd season at Kangoeroes-B.. In the last game Boonen recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Se led Kangoeroes-B. to comfortable win outscoring Tulikivi Deerlijk (0-1) 76-51.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Melissa Dennett (188-F-83) of Waregem. Dennett scored 20 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). She was a key player of Waregem, leading her team to a 63-61 win against Sint Katelijne (0-1).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Stefka Miteva (190-C-89) of Blue Cats - 13 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Krystel Ballau (168-PG-84) of Spirou Monceau - 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Marjorie Carpreaux (165-PG-87) of Houthalen - 14 points and 11 rebounds
7. Jasmina Rosseel (175-F-89) of Kangoeroes-B. - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Chloe Westelynck (188-F-91) of Spirou Monceau - 15 points and 12 rebounds
9. Soana Lucet (186-F-87) of Castors Braine - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) of Sint Katelijne - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists

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


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

CHINA

U18 Asia Championship: China outscore Japan - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 73:67

China registered the third straight win at U18 Asia Championship. The defending champions held off ambitious Japan to stay undefeated. Gong Li (187-F-95) accounted for 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners.
China held their opponents to 12 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. Japan adjusted offensively and struck right back in the second quarter. They fired 25 points to ensure a 37:32 halftime lead. China made necessary arrangements in the big break and turned things around in the third quarter. They limited Japan to 8 points and snatched a 51:45 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Japan drew things level at 56 midway through the final frame. But China went on a 7:0 run to take a 9-point lead with under three minutes remaining. They withheld comeback efforts from Japan to seal the victory at the end. Hu Yaoming (191-F/C-95) posted 14 points, while Zhang Liting (199-C-94) added 12 points in the victory. Yuki Kitamura (170-G-94) answered with 26 points for Japan. Mirai Tamura (164-PG-94) netted 13 points in the loss.

China U18: Gong Li 17+11 boards, Hu Yaoming 14, Zhang Liting 12
Japan U18: Yuki Kitamura 26, Mirai Tamura 13


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

CROATIA

Jolly Sibenik clinch Vladimir Seselja Memorial title - by Eurobasket News

Jolly Sibenik celebrated victory at the Vladimir Seselja Memorial tournament in Pula. They overcame Italian Interclub Muggia 88:61 in the Final. Luca Ivankovic (207-C-87) came up with 22 points to pace the winners. Ana Semren (190-C-88) added 19 points for the Croatian team.
Triglav from Slovenia clinched the third position. They defeated Rockwool Pula 71:62 in the consolation final. Chelsea Pickering (175-G-89, college: Idaho St.) provided 15 points and 8 rebounds for Pula in defeat.


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

FINLAND

Siarre Evans joins Haukar - by Greg

Haukar (Dominos League) agreed terms with 24-year old American swingman Siarre Evans (178-88, college: East Tennessee State). Evans played last season at Forssan Alku in Finnish SM-sarja. She played in two countries last year. In 20 SM-sarja games she had 14.6ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg and 1.8spg. Evans helped them to make it to the semifinals. Quite impressive season as she was named to Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Honorable Mention. She also played at Apollon Ptolemaidos in Greek A1 earlier that season. In 7 A1 games she recorded very impressive stats: 17.0ppg, 12.7rpg, 1.7apg and 2.1spg.
She was also voted Eurobasket.com All-Luxembourg League Import Player of the Year in 2011.
She attended East Tennessee State until 2010 and won A-Sun Tournament in 2008, 2009 and 2010.


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

FRANCE

French LFB round 2 best performance: Gaelle Skrela - by Eurobasket News

Guard Gaelle Skrela (177-G-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) put on an amazing game in the last round for Lattes Montpeiller, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 2.
The 29-year old player was the main contributor (24 points, five rebounds and four assists) to her team's victory, helping them to crush Tarbes (0-2) with 19-point margin 75-56. Skrela had a remarkable 90.0% from 2-point range. She has many years of experience at Lattes Montp., through which he has constantly improved. Gaelle Skrela has solid league stats after two rounds. She is league's best scorer averaging so far 19.5ppg. Skrela is in league's top in and averages impressive 77.8% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was another Lattes Montp.'s star - 32-year old Gabonese forward Geraldine Robert (184-F-80). Robert had a very good evening with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman Angie Bjorklund (183-G/F-89) of Perpignan. Bjorklund scored 17 points and grabbed ten rebounds. She was a key player of Perpignan, leading her team to a 62-47 easy win against Union Hainaut (0-2).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Cayla Francis (192-C-89) of Aix-en-Provence - 17 points and 11 rebounds
5. Marielle Amant (190-F/C-89) of Nantes - 20 points and 4 rebounds
6. Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87) of Nantes - 20 points and 4 rebounds
7. Bintou Dieme (164-PG-84) of Villeneuve - 23 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Naignouma Coulibaly (191-C-89) of Mondeville - 10 points and 10 rebounds
9. Stephany Skrba (188-F-87) of Bourges - 13 points and 10 rebounds
10. Shona Thorburn (178-G-82) of Aix-en-Provence - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 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)


Toure's double-double lands her LF2 Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

24-year old forward Oumou Toure (190-F-88) had an amazing evening for LTB 29 and receives a Eurobasket.com LF2 Player of the Week award for round 1.
She had a double-double of 31 points and 14 rebounds, while her team beat Limoges (0-1) in overtime 87-79. It's Toure's second year at LTB 29 and it's hard to imagine this team without her.

Second best performed player was Jeanne Senghor (191-C-82) of Nice. She is Senegalese center in her 4th season at Nice. In the last game Senghor recorded impressive double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds. Of course Nice cruised to a 66-57 relatively comfortable win over Reims (0-1).

Third place about best performers goes to forward Iva Grbas (188-F/C-87) of Limoges. Grbas scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Grbas' great performance Limoges lost 79-87 in overtime to LTB 29 (1-0). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Johanna Cortinovis (190-F/C-86) of Angers - 11 points and 10 rebounds
5. Aude Kernevez (163-G-89) of LTB 29 - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Lucie Martine Barba (185-F-92) of Limoges - 10 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Mariame Dia (185-F-78) of Pau Orthez - 18 points and 4 rebounds
8. Sabrina Scott (190-C-81) of Dunkerque - 20 points and 7 rebounds
9. Melissa Micaletto (165-G-90) of Dunkerque - 18 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Awa Gueye (182-F-78) of Pau Orthez - 14 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)


Arras release Katerina Dorogobuzova - by Eurobasket News

Arras decided to split ways with Katerina Dorogobuzova (190-F-90, agency: LBM Management). The Ukrainian forward joined the French team in pre-season. However her performance did not satisfy the coaching staff and Arras decided to look for replacement. Last season Katerina Dorogobuzova spent in Bulgaria. She played for Neftochimic 2010 Burgas. Her stats read 21.6 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in NBL. She was named All-Bulgarian League Bosman Player of the Year. Previously Katerina Dorogobuzova played for Tim-Scuf Kyiv and Toulouse Basket. She was named All-Ukrainian Higher League Forward of the Year in 2009. Katerina Dorogobuzova has been the member of Ukrainian National Team since 2009.


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

ICELAND

Siarre Evans joins Haukar - by Greg

Haukar (Dominos League) agreed terms with 24-year old American swingman Siarre Evans (178-88, college: East Tennessee State). Evans played last season at Forssan Alku in Finnish SM-sarja. She played in two countries last year. In 20 SM-sarja games she had 14.6ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg and 1.8spg. Evans helped them to make it to the semifinals. Quite impressive season as she was named to Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Honorable Mention. She also played at Apollon Ptolemaidos in Greek A1 earlier that season. In 7 A1 games she recorded very impressive stats: 17.0ppg, 12.7rpg, 1.7apg and 2.1spg.
She was also voted Eurobasket.com All-Luxembourg League Import Player of the Year in 2011.
She attended East Tennessee State until 2010 and won A-Sun Tournament in 2008, 2009 and 2010.


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

IRELAND

Standings - Women Superleague Standings  1. DCU Mercy 0-0   2. Killester 0-0   3. Liffey Celtics 0-0   4. Meteors 0-0   5. Singleton 0-0   6. TM Hotel Cork 0-0   7. UL Aughinish 0-0   8. Ulster Rockets 0-0   9. Waterford W. 0-0  Regular Season: Round 1 Oct. 6: UL Aughinish - Killester Oct. 6: Ulster Rockets - DCU Mercy Oct. 6: TM Hotel Cork - Meteors Oct. 6: Waterford W. - Liffey Celtics

Division 1 Standings - by Eurobasket Division 1 Standings  1. Donegal Town 0-0   2. Foireann 0-0   3. Oblate Dynamos 0-0   4. P.Panthers 0-0   5. St.Marys 0-0   6. Tralee Imperials 0-0   7. UL Limerick 0-0

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

JAPAN

U18 Asia Championship: China outscore Japan - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 73:67

China registered the third straight win at U18 Asia Championship. The defending champions held off ambitious Japan to stay undefeated. Gong Li (187-F-95) accounted for 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners.
China held their opponents to 12 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. Japan adjusted offensively and struck right back in the second quarter. They fired 25 points to ensure a 37:32 halftime lead. China made necessary arrangements in the big break and turned things around in the third quarter. They limited Japan to 8 points and snatched a 51:45 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Japan drew things level at 56 midway through the final frame. But China went on a 7:0 run to take a 9-point lead with under three minutes remaining. They withheld comeback efforts from Japan to seal the victory at the end. Hu Yaoming (191-F/C-95) posted 14 points, while Zhang Liting (199-C-94) added 12 points in the victory. Yuki Kitamura (170-G-94) answered with 26 points for Japan. Mirai Tamura (164-PG-94) netted 13 points in the loss.

China U18: Gong Li 17+11 boards, Hu Yaoming 14, Zhang Liting 12
Japan U18: Yuki Kitamura 26, Mirai Tamura 13


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

LITHUANIA

Standings - LMKL LMKL Standings  1. Aistes-LSU 0-0   2. Fortuna 0-0   3. Jaunieji Talentai 0-0   4. Kibirkstis-Tiche 0-0   5. Ruta Siauliai 0-0   6. Sirenos 0-0   7. Suduva 0-0   8. Utena 0-0  Regular Season: Round 1 Oct. 12: Aistes-LSU - Ruta Siauliai Oct. 12: Suduva - Sirenos Oct. 12: Utena - Fortuna Oct. 12: Kibirkstis-Tiche - Jaunieji Talentai

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

MALAYSIA

U18 Asia Championship: South Korea hold off Malaysia for second win - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Malaysia U18 71:55

South Korea posted the second victory at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame hosting Malaysia for 2-1 record in Level I ladder. Malaysia suffered the third loss in a row. Kang Leeseul (180-F-94) came up with 19 points to pace the winners.
Malaysia opened the game with five points in a row but South Korea quickly gained necessary tempo. They posted a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. South Korea boosted the margin in the second quarter. They piled up a 37:25 halftime lead. The visitors kept Malaysia at bay throughout the third frame. The Korean team entered the fourth quarter up by 13 points. They limited Malaysia to 15 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Kim Minjeong (180-C-94) accounted for 15 points, while Choi Eunsil (183-F-94) added 14 points for the winners. Phey Chi Low (170-G-94) answered with 17 points for Malaysia. Shi yeng Ng (186-C-94) had 14 points and 11 rebounds in defeat.

South Korea U18: Kang Leeseul 19, Kim Minjeong 15, Choi Eunsil 14
Malaysia U18: Phey Chi Low 17, Shi yeng Ng 14


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

RUSSIA

UMMC edge Uni Girona in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Uni Girona - UMMC 58:77

UMMC claimed a road win over Uni Girona as part of their preparation for the upcoming season. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) posted 20 points to lead UMMC.
Uni Girona challenged their strong opposition in the first quarter. The hosts eked out a 20:19 lead after ten minutes. UMMC however pulled in front in the second frame. They ensured a 42:32 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. UMMC secured a 10-point buffer before the final stretch 57:47. The Russian powerhouse proved their strength in the fourth frame sealing the victory with a 20:11 run. Olga Arteshina (188-PF-82) accounted for 15 points, while Silvia Dominguez (167-PG-87) added 12 points for the winners. Jacinta Monroe (193-F/C-88, college: Florida St.) responded with 16 points for Girona. Myrthe Beld (183-G-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports) and Cierra Bravard (193-C-89, college: Florida St.) had 9 points apiece in the loss.

Uni Girona: Jacinta Monroe 16, Myrthe Beld 9, Cierra Bravard 9
UMMC: Anna Petrakova 20, Olga Arteshina 15, Silvia Dominguez 12


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

SERBIA

Standings - Women A League Standings  1. Beocin 0-0   2. Celarevo 0-0   3. Crvena Zvezda 0-0   4. Jagodina 2001 0-0   5. Proleter ZR 0-0   6. Radnicki KG 0-0   7. Sabac 0-0   8. Srbobran 0-0   9. Stara Pazova 0-0   10. Student 0-0   11. Sumadija KG 0-0   12. Vrbas Medela 0-0  Play in international cups:  1. Partizan -   2. Radivoj Korac -   3. Vojvodina -   4. Vozdovac -   5. Vrsac -  Regular Season: Round 1 Oct. 6: Jagodina 2001 - Sumadija KG Oct. 6: Srbobran - Vrbas Medela Oct. 6: Stara Pazova - Crvena Zvezda Oct. 6: Student - Beocin Oct. 6: Sabac - Celarevo Oct. 6: Radnicki KG - Proleter ZR

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

SINGAPORE

U18 Asia Championship: Singapore prevail against Sri Lanka - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18 - Sri Lanka U18 55:46

Singapore clinched the second win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Sri Lanka to catch up with Hong Kong in the second position at Level II ladder. Lim Alanna (172-C-94) posted 10 points and 12 rebounds to pace Singapore.
Singapore jumped to a 12:9 lead after ten minutes. They fired 19 points in the second quarter to boost their lead. Singapore arrived at halftime up by 15 points 31:16. They maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. Singapore entered the fourth period up by as many as 17 points 46:29. Sri Lanka refused to give up and outscored Singapore in the final frame. But the margin proved too deep to overcome as Singapore secured the victory. Han Priscilla (170-F-94) netted 10 points, while Chua Violet (160-F-95) and See Shermaine (162-G-94) added 8 points each in the win. Anne Ravindran (156-F-96) answered with 18 points for Sri Lanka. Pooja Marasinghege (169-C-94) delivered 12 points in the loss.

Singapore U18: Lim Alanna 10+12 boards, Han Priscilla 10, Chua Violet 8, See Shermaine 8
Sri Lanka U18: Anne Ravindran 18, Pooja Marasinghege 12


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

SOUTH KOREA

U18 Asia Championship: South Korea hold off Malaysia for second win - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Malaysia U18 71:55

South Korea posted the second victory at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame hosting Malaysia for 2-1 record in Level I ladder. Malaysia suffered the third loss in a row. Kang Leeseul (180-F-94) came up with 19 points to pace the winners.
Malaysia opened the game with five points in a row but South Korea quickly gained necessary tempo. They posted a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. South Korea boosted the margin in the second quarter. They piled up a 37:25 halftime lead. The visitors kept Malaysia at bay throughout the third frame. The Korean team entered the fourth quarter up by 13 points. They limited Malaysia to 15 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Kim Minjeong (180-C-94) accounted for 15 points, while Choi Eunsil (183-F-94) added 14 points for the winners. Phey Chi Low (170-G-94) answered with 17 points for Malaysia. Shi yeng Ng (186-C-94) had 14 points and 11 rebounds in defeat.

South Korea U18: Kang Leeseul 19, Kim Minjeong 15, Choi Eunsil 14
Malaysia U18: Phey Chi Low 17, Shi yeng Ng 14


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

SPAIN

UMMC edge Uni Girona in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Uni Girona - UMMC 58:77

UMMC claimed a road win over Uni Girona as part of their preparation for the upcoming season. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) posted 20 points to lead UMMC.
Uni Girona challenged their strong opposition in the first quarter. The hosts eked out a 20:19 lead after ten minutes. UMMC however pulled in front in the second frame. They ensured a 42:32 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. UMMC secured a 10-point buffer before the final stretch 57:47. The Russian powerhouse proved their strength in the fourth frame sealing the victory with a 20:11 run. Olga Arteshina (188-PF-82) accounted for 15 points, while Silvia Dominguez (167-PG-87) added 12 points for the winners. Jacinta Monroe (193-F/C-88, college: Florida St.) responded with 16 points for Girona. Myrthe Beld (183-G-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports) and Cierra Bravard (193-C-89, college: Florida St.) had 9 points apiece in the loss.

Uni Girona: Jacinta Monroe 16, Myrthe Beld 9, Cierra Bravard 9
UMMC: Anna Petrakova 20, Olga Arteshina 15, Silvia Dominguez 12


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

SRI LANKA

U18 Asia Championship: Singapore prevail against Sri Lanka - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18 - Sri Lanka U18 55:46

Singapore clinched the second win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Sri Lanka to catch up with Hong Kong in the second position at Level II ladder. Lim Alanna (172-C-94) posted 10 points and 12 rebounds to pace Singapore.
Singapore jumped to a 12:9 lead after ten minutes. They fired 19 points in the second quarter to boost their lead. Singapore arrived at halftime up by 15 points 31:16. They maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. Singapore entered the fourth period up by as many as 17 points 46:29. Sri Lanka refused to give up and outscored Singapore in the final frame. But the margin proved too deep to overcome as Singapore secured the victory. Han Priscilla (170-F-94) netted 10 points, while Chua Violet (160-F-95) and See Shermaine (162-G-94) added 8 points each in the win. Anne Ravindran (156-F-96) answered with 18 points for Sri Lanka. Pooja Marasinghege (169-C-94) delivered 12 points in the loss.

Singapore U18: Lim Alanna 10+12 boards, Han Priscilla 10, Chua Violet 8, See Shermaine 8
Sri Lanka U18: Anne Ravindran 18, Pooja Marasinghege 12


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

TAIWAN

U18 Asia Championship: Taiwan topple Thailand - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18 - Thailand U18 74:58

Taiwan registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Thailand to catch up with their opponents at 1-2 record in the ladder. Lin Yu-Ting (183-F-94) came up with 24 points to pace the winners.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the first quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Taiwan put their noses in front in the second frame. They squeezed out a 35:34 halftime lead. The intensity stayed the same in the second half. Taiwan entered the fourth quarter up by just a single point 50:49. But they finally broke through in the fourth quarter igniting a 24:9 run to win the game. Lin Wen-Yu (178-C-95) notched 12 points, while Huang Ling-Chuan (174-F-94) added 10 points for the winners. Sirirak Daenkaewmoon (170-G-94) answered with 15 points for Thailand. Supira Kianbut (175-C-94) had 13 points in the loss.

Taiwan U18: Lin Yu-Ting 24, Lin Wen-Yu 12, Huang Ling-Chuan 10
Thailand U18: Sirirak Daenkaewmoon 15, Supira Kianbut 13


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

THAILAND

U18 Asia Championship: Taiwan topple Thailand - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18 - Thailand U18 74:58

Taiwan registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Thailand to catch up with their opponents at 1-2 record in the ladder. Lin Yu-Ting (183-F-94) came up with 24 points to pace the winners.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the first quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Taiwan put their noses in front in the second frame. They squeezed out a 35:34 halftime lead. The intensity stayed the same in the second half. Taiwan entered the fourth quarter up by just a single point 50:49. But they finally broke through in the fourth quarter igniting a 24:9 run to win the game. Lin Wen-Yu (178-C-95) notched 12 points, while Huang Ling-Chuan (174-F-94) added 10 points for the winners. Sirirak Daenkaewmoon (170-G-94) answered with 15 points for Thailand. Supira Kianbut (175-C-94) had 13 points in the loss.

Taiwan U18: Lin Yu-Ting 24, Lin Wen-Yu 12, Huang Ling-Chuan 10
Thailand U18: Sirirak Daenkaewmoon 15, Supira Kianbut 13


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

TURKEY

Homend Antakya claim fourth straight win at Mersin Cumhuriyet Cup - by Eurobasket News

Homend Antakya celebrated the fourth straight win at the Mersin Cumhuriyet Cup. They knocked down Canik Belediye 91:60. Lucie Bouthors (174-PG-88) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners. Jolene Anderson (175-SG-86, college: Wisconsin) delivered 16 points in the victory. Tanja Cirov (181-G/F-81) answered with 14 points for Canik Belediye as they fell at 2-2 record.
Edremit prevailed against Samsun 69:40. Amisha Carter (186-PF-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Louisiana Tech) posted 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Burcu Tasbas (178-F-89, agency: 1x1 Sports) and Tiffany Stansbury (191-F/C-83, college: N.Carolina St.) finished with 10 points each in the win. Samsun answered with 12 points and 14 boards from Anna Vadja (191-F/C-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas).
Mersin clinched the third victory at the tournament as they shot down TED Ankara 76:59. Oksana Zakalyuzhnaya (198-C-77) posted 23 points in the victory. Seda Erdogan (170-SF-87, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Dodge City CC) netted 16 points in the winning case. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) answered with 23 points for TED Ankara.


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

WNBA

Storm beat Lynx 86-79 in double overtime in Game 2 - by Eurobasket News

Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) and Sue Bird (5'9''-PG-80, college: Connecticut) have been the cornerstones of the Seattle Storm for more than a decade. Sunday night at KeyArena they had one of their finest moments in an 86-79 double overtime victory over the Minnesota Lynx in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals.

Jackson gave the Storm new life with a game-tying 3-pointer with 1.1 seconds left in regulation that sent the game to overtime and Bird sealed the victory with two clutch 3-pointers in the second overtime.

The victory forced a decisive Game 3 back in Minneapolis on Tuesday. The winner will advance to the Western Conference Finals to face the Los Angeles Sparks.

I thought our team did a great job just finding a way to win, Bird said. Even though we are happy with this, we are not satisfied. We know we have a good opportunity ahead of us in Minnesota and hopefully we can come away with a win, but we know its not going to be easy.

Game 2 wasnt easy for the Storm either. The two teams battled in the first quarter with the Storm leading early, but the Lynx coming on late to take a 27-18 lead heading into the second quarter. There were four ties and eight lead changes in the first quarter, but it was a 16-0 run the Lynx started late in the first quarter they extended into the second that gave them a commanding lead.

The Lynx lead would last into the fourth quarter, but the Storm wouldnt go away. They countered the Lynx 16-0 run with a 15-3 run of their own and trailed 37-36 at halftime.

For us to play well we have to defend people, Storm head coach Brian Agler said. We just werent catching breaks. We werent hitting shots. We werent being quite as gritty we wanted to be on the defensive end.

Fortunately we did find a way to stay in the game.

The Lynx extended the lead to 10 again in the third quarter, but again the Storm responded in the fourth quarter.

Camille Little's (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) layup with 3 minutes, 12 seconds to play in the game gave Seattle its first lead since the first quarter and the raucous crowd of 8,479 sensed victory inching closer.

But there is a reason the Lynx had the best record in the WNBA from seasons beginning to seasons end. Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) scored four straight points to give the Lynx the lead with just 34.9 seconds to play.

Seattle went to Jackson to try and tie the score on the next possession, but she missed a driving layup and Maya Moore secured the rebound for the Lynx.

After a timeout, Lindsay Whalen was fouled by Bird and calmly knocked down two free throws to give Minnesota a 69-65 lead.

The Storm called a timeout and quickly set up a play for Bird, who knocked down a 17-foot jump shot to cut the deficit to 69-67. Seattle fouled Taj McWilliams-Franklin with 11 seconds to play. McWilliams-Franklin made just one of two free throws, giving Minnesota a 70-67 lead and setting the stage for Jackson.

Bird brought the ball down and Jackson set a screen on the perimeter. Minnesota failed to switch on the screen and Bird passed the ball to Jackson for the game-tying shot. Jackson shot just 4-for-17 in the game, but made up for it with the shot that saved the Storms season.

Fortunately for us, Sue made a good read and got it to Lauren and Lauren didnt hesitate and hit the shot, Agler said.

More adversity faced the Storm in the first overtime. Jackson fouled out of the game with 40.2 seconds to play by fouling Brunson, who made one of two free throws to give the Lynx a 75-72 lead. If the Storm were going to win, they would have to come from behind again and this time do it without Jackson.

Normally known for her defense, Tanisha Wright (5'11''-SF-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) hit a 3-pointer that ultimately sent the game to double overtime.

The second overtime was all Storm. Bird gave the Storm a two-possession lead with 2:25 to play in the game with a 3-pointer and delivered a dagger with her final 3-point shot of the night with 42.5 seconds to play, increasing Seattles lead to 86-79.

Bird finished the game with 22 points to lead the Storm. Brunson also had 22 to lead Minnesota.

Courtesy of www.heraldnet.com


Catchings, January help Fever even series with Dream - by Eurobasket News

After losing the opener of the Eastern Conference semifinals at home against Atlanta, the Indiana Fever were determined to return the favor.

Tamika Catchings (6'1''-SF-79, college: Tennessee) had 25 points and 13 rebounds, Briann January (5'8''-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arizona St.) scored 24 points and the Fever beat the Dream 103-88 in Game 2 on Sunday to even the series.

"I can't say enough about Catchings and January," Indiana coach Lin Dunn said. "They just willed this team to come back from the loss Friday night. . Now we're even."

January scored 11 points in the third quarter to help Indiana extend a two-point halftime lead and Catchings had 18 in the fourth one short of the WNBA record for a quarter.

The deciding Game 3 will be Tuesday in Indianapolis, where the Dream eliminated the Fever in Game 3 of the East finals a year ago. Indiana, which was 13-4 at home this season, won the previous four postseason games at home before losing the last two.

"It's always good to go home," January said. "It's our home court and we want to protect it. We have given ourselves that opportunity by playing hard this season and getting home-court advantage."

The Fever, who lost the series opener 73-66 on Friday in Indianapolis, outscored Atlanta 31-20 in the third quarter to pull away from a 47-45 lead at the break. Larkins, who got her first career start in the playoffs, had eight points in the quarter to back January.

The Dream scored 10 straight points to cut pull to 82-75 early in the fourth. However, Catchings hit back-to-back 3-pointers and then cut through the defense for a layup as the Fever regained control.

Catchings made five of six shots in the fourth quarter after making just one of her first 11 shots from the floor.

"I credit my teammates for constantly encouraging me," Catching said. "They kept saying, 'The next one is going to go in. The next one is going to go in. Don't stop shooting.'"

Erlana Larkins (6'1''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) had 16 points, Shavonte Zellous (5'10''-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) added 15, Tammy Sutton-Brown 11 and Erin Phillips 10 as the Fever had six players in double figures for the first time this season. Indiana shot 53 percent from the field and had a 36-32 edge on the boards after being out-rebounded in the first game.

"I thought the way we shared the basketball was huge," Dunn said.

Angel McCoughtry scored 22 points to lead Atlanta. Lindsey Harding added 17 and Sancho Lyttle 15.

"Indiana came out firing and some shots they didn't hit in Game 1 they hit in this game," Dream coach Fred Williams said.

Catchings, who had missed her first seven shots, hit a 3 with 1.8 seconds left in second quarter to give Indiana the halftime lead. January and Sutton-Brown each had 11 points at the break.

After starting 1 for 8 and falling behind 14-6, Indiana made six straight shots. But Ketia Swanier banked in a 30-footer at the buzzer to give Atlanta a 24-22 lead at the end of the first quarter.

McCoughtry and Lyttle each scored 11 points in the first half for the Dream, who shot 41 percent.

A total of 50 fouls were called in the game. The Fever finished 28 for 41 while the Dream were 25 for 28.

"Even if we didn't win Game 3 last year we would still have the confidence going in there," McCoughtry said. "We're going to go up there and just play like we did last game and do what we need to do to take this series."

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com