Eurobasket Daily News Report: 10/7/2012 1:00:00 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/7/2012 1:00:00 AM

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ARGENTINA

LigaA Round 7: Change at the top of the standings - by Eurobasket News

LigaA is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 7 rounds left. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with change at the leadership position, derby games and favorites losing the games.

LigaA round 7 caused change at the leadership position. Second defeat of league's leader Argentino (5-2) against eighth ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (2-4) 82-68 was the most important game of the last round. The game was mostly controlled by Wuber-Est.Bahia. Argentino managed to win second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Wuber-Est.Bahia forced 22 Argentino turnovers. Strangely Argentino outrebounded Wuber-Est.Bahia 36-24 including 25 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Argentino helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Marcus Fizer (203-78, college: Iowa St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 29 points and 12 rebounds. Swingman Juan Manuel Rivero (191-85) contributed with 18 points for the winners. The former international point guard Nicolas De los Santos (180-88) answered with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for Argentino. Wuber-Est.Bahia moved-up to seventh place in South. Newly promoted Argentino dropped to the second position with two games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Penarol who have the same record. Argentino will play next round against league's leader Penarol trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Wuber-Est.Bahia will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked 9 de Julio in Rio Tercero.
The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Penarol as it allowed them to take a leadership position in South. Penarol smashed 7th ranked 9 de Julio in Mar del Plata 101-69. It was a great evening for the former international Marcos Mata (201-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points and 9 rebounds. David Teague helped adding 19 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side forward Enzo Ruiz (193-88, agency: Dream Team Management) responded with 18 points. 9 de Julio's coach Sebastian Gonzalez gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Penarol (5-2) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Argentino. 9 de Julio lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth place with five games lost. 9 de Julio will play next round against Wuber-Est.Bahia trying to get back on the winning streak. Penarol will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Argentino at Junin.
An interesting game was also home defeat of 6th ranked Atenas in a game in Cordoba versus Sionista (#4) 79-77. It was an exceptional evening for Luis Cequeira who led the winners and scored 21 points and 6 assists. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Mariano Fierro came up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds for Atenas in the defeat. Sionista maintains fourth place in North with 4-4 record. Atenas lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Sionista will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Atenas will play again against Sionista (#4) in Parana and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very interesting game took place in Buenos Aires. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Obras (4-3) to fifth ranked Lanus (3-3) 76-74 on Friday evening. William McFarlan fired 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Lanus moved-up to fourth place in South, which they share with Boca Jrs. Obras at the other side dropped to the third position with three games lost. Lanus' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Buenos Aires Boca Juniors.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Regatas Corrientes (5-2) against sixth ranked Atenas (3-5) on Friday night. Visiting Regatas Corrientes was defeated by Atenas in a tough game in Cordoba 62-66. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Regatas Corrientes. It was a very good performance for Bruno Labaque who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 4 assists. Atenas' coach Alejandro Lotterio allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Atenas moved-up to fifth place in North. Loser Regatas Corrientes keeps the second position with two games lost. Atenas will face higher ranked Sionista (#4) in Parana in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Regatas Corrientes will play on the road against Olimpico de La Banda and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games in round 7 were not that significant.
In North Quimsa was beaten by Union Progr. on the road 91-85. Olimpico LB won against Sionista on its own court 77-66. Libertad S. managed to outperform La Union in Sunchales 70-65.
In South GECR Indalo managed to beat Boca Jrs at home 82-78. Obras was defeated by GECR Indalo on the opponent's court 95-85.
The most impressive performance of 7th round was 24 points and 12 rebounds by Darren Phillip of Union Progr..

Group North

Atenas - Regatas C. 66-62

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Regatas Corrientes (5-2) against sixth ranked Atenas (3-5) on Friday night. Visiting Regatas Corrientes was defeated by Atenas in a tough game in Cordoba 62-66. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Regatas Corrientes. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 66-62. Atenas dominated on the defensive end, holding Regatas Corrientes to just 7 points in second quarter. They made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. Atenas forced 22 Regatas Corrientes turnovers. It was a very good performance for the former international guard Bruno Labaque (180-77, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 4 assists. Power forward Mariano Fierro (201-86) contributed with 5 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Atenas' coach Alejandro Lotterio allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Naturalized Paraguayan swingman Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) answered with 11 points and 4 assists and American forward Tony Washam (200-82, college: St.Vincent) added 7 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Regatas Corrientes. Atenas moved-up to fifth place in North. Loser Regatas Corrientes keeps the second position with two games lost. Atenas will face higher ranked Sionista (#4) in Parana in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Regatas Corrientes will play on the road against Olimpico de La Banda and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Atenas: B.Labaque 14+4reb+4ast, B.Colli 12+2reb+2ast, A.Elsener 9+2reb, J.Bulfoni 7+1reb+1ast, M.Lescano 7+3reb+1ast, D.Guaita 6+1reb+3ast
Regatas C.: J.Martinez 11+3reb+4ast, N.Romano 8+3reb, D.Kante 7+5reb, T.Washam 7+6reb+2ast, P.Quinteros 7+5reb+2ast, P.I. Calderon 6+6reb+1ast

Union Progr. - Quimsa 91-85

There was a small surprise when eighth ranked Union Progresista (1-5) beat 5th ranked Quimsa (2-4) in Villa Angela 91-85 on Thursday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Quimsa won fourth quarter 27-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Union Progresista made 27-of-30 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Union Progresista especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. Quite impressive performance for British-American forward Darren Phillip (201-78, college: Fairfield) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds. Swingman Christian Schoppler (185-86) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Guard Nicolas Aguirre (188-88) answered with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and American center James Williams (204-79, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Dream Team Management) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Quimsa. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Union Progresista left bottom position moving up to seventh place in North. Loser Quimsa dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Union Progresista will face league's leader Libertad Sunchales at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Union Progr.: D.Phillip 24+12reb+3ast, C.Schoppler 15+2reb+2ast, A.Zago 12+6reb, V.Hugo Cajal 11+2reb+4ast, A.Moss 9+2reb+1ast, G.Laphitzborde 8+3reb+4ast
Quimsa: E.Villares 15, J.Williams 14+5reb, S.Vega 12+3reb, N.Aguirre 11+5reb+7ast, R.Stanton 9+2reb, D.Lo Grippo 9+1reb

Olimpico LB - Sionista 77-66

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 4th placed Sionista's (4-4) road loss to third ranked Olimpico de La Banda (5-2) 66-77 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Olimpico de La Banda. Sionista was better in third quarter 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Quite impressive performance for swingman Ariel Pau (186-84) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 8 steals. American center Sam Clancy (202-80, college: USC) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Olimpico de La Banda players scored in double figures. International point guard Luis Cequeira (180-85) answered with 15 points and 7 assists and American forward Joshua Pittman (195-76, college: NC-Asheville, agency: Dream Team Management) added 13 points in the effort for Sionista. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Olimpico de La Banda moved-up to second place in North, which they share with Regatas C. Loser Sionista keeps the fourth position with four games lost. Olimpico de La Banda will face league's second-placed Regatas Corrientes at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Sionista will play against Atenas in Cordoba and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Olimpico LB: A.Pau 28, C.McGowan 14+3reb+4ast, S.Clancy 14+13reb+1ast, D.Yearby 10+9reb+3ast, H.Salles 7+1reb+1ast, A.Eslava 2+3reb+1ast
Sionista: L.Cequeira 15+4reb+7ast, J.Pittman 13+3reb+2ast, M.Sandes 8+5reb, J.Meyinsse 8+5reb, D.Hure 8+6reb+1ast, L.Gonzalez 8+3reb

La Union - Libertad S. 65-70

Very predictable result when leader Libertad Sunchales (7-0) won against 7th ranked La Union (1-6) in Formosa 70-65 on Friday. La Union trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 13 after three quarters before a 20-12 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 65-70 at the end of the game. Libertad Sunchales outrebounded La Union 36-24 including 29 on the defensive glass. Quite impressive performance for guard Marcos Saglietti (190-86) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 6 rebounds. Puerto Rican center Ricardo Sanchez (212-87) contributed with 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four Libertad Sunchales players scored in double figures. American forward Gregory Lewis (200-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) answered with 22 points and 7 rebounds and guard Juan Brussino (183-91) added 14 points in the effort for La Union. The victory was the seventh consecutive win for Libertad Sunchales. They maintain first place in North with 7-0 record. La Union lost their fourth game in a row. They dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Libertad Sunchales will face Union Progresista (#7) in Villa Angela in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. La Union will play at home against Quimsa in Santiado Estero and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Libertad S.: M.Saglietti 16+6reb+1ast, J.Emiliano Fernandez 14+5reb+3ast, R.Sanchez 13+9reb, G.Mikulas 11+5reb+2ast, J.Treise 6+5reb+2ast, J.Giordana 6+1reb+1ast
La Union: G.Lewis 22+7reb, J.Brussino 14+2reb+2ast, K.Lamonte 13+1reb+3ast, A.Marin 7+5reb, J.Caceres 5+1reb, R.Wolkowyski 4+5reb

Group South

GECR Indalo - Boca Jrs 82-78

There was a minor upset when 4th placed Boca Juniors (3-3) lost to sixth ranked GECR Indalo (3-4) in Comodoro R. 78-82 on Friday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Boca Juniors won fourth quarter 23-22. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. GECR Indalo dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Boca Juniors' 34. Quite impressive performance for American power forward Kahiem Seawright (203-86, college: Rhode Island, agency: Edge Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Center Diego Romero (203-82, college: Florida St.) contributed with 20 points for the winners. American forward John DeGroat (198-85, college: Pittsburgh) answered with 18 points and 5 rebounds and the former international point guard Maximiliano Stanic (178-78, agency: Players Group) added 12 points in the effort for Boca Juniors. Boca Juniors' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. GECR Indalo maintains sixth place in South with 3-4 record. Loser Boca Juniors keeps the fourth position with three games lost. GECR Indalo will face higher ranked Obras (#3) in Buenos Aires in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Boca Juniors' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Buenos Aires to the arena Lanus.
Top scorers:
GECR Indalo: D.Romero 20+3reb, K.Seawright 19+10reb+1ast, J.Robinson 17+4reb+1ast, M.Byro 8+2reb+1ast, D.Jackson 7+3reb+1ast, D.Ciorciari 4+1reb+4ast
Boca Jrs: J.DeGroat 18+5reb+1ast, F.Van Lacke 13+1reb, M.Stanic 12+4reb+1ast, D.Santiago 7+7reb+3ast, J.Jones 7+1reb+2ast, P.Hopson 6+1reb

Penarol - 9 de Julio 101-69

The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Penarol as it allowed them to take a leadership position in South. Penarol smashed 7th ranked 9 de Julio in Mar del Plata 101-69. The game without a history. Penarol led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-19 charity shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Penarol players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by 9 de Julio's players. It was a great evening for the former international Marcos Mata (201-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points and 9 rebounds. American guard David Teague (196-83, college: Purdue) helped adding 19 points and 7 rebounds. Four Penarol players scored in double figures. At the losing side forward Enzo Ruiz (193-88, agency: Dream Team Management) responded with 18 points and American forward Edward Nelson (203-82, college: Connecticut, agency: Dream Team Management) scored 12 points. 9 de Julio's coach Sebastian Gonzalez gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Penarol (5-2) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Argentino. 9 de Julio lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth place with five games lost. 9 de Julio will play next round against Wuber-Est.Bahia trying to get back on the winning streak. Penarol will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Argentino at Junin.
Top scorers:
Penarol: D.Teague 19+7reb+1ast, M.Mata 17+9reb+3ast, S.Safar 16+1reb, M.Leiva 14+4reb+2ast, L.Rasio 10+4reb+1ast, M.Ibarra 8+1reb+3ast
9 de Julio: E.Ruiz 18+4reb, R.Hornsby 13+1reb+2ast, E.Nelson 12+4reb+2ast, L.Reinaudi 8+4reb, J.Cowan 8+5reb+1ast, M.Melo 4+2reb

Lanus - Obras 76-74

A very interesting game took place in Buenos Aires. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Obras (4-3) to fifth ranked Lanus (3-3) 76-74 on Friday evening. Obras was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 39-36 second half run of Lanus. 26 personal fouls committed by Obras helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) fired 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. International point guard Nicolas Laprovittola (184-90) chipped in 9 points and 6 assists. International power forward Juan Gutierrez (205-83) produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 rebounds and Uruguayan guard Martin Osimani (194-81, college: Duquesne) added 9 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Lanus moved-up to fourth place in South, which they share with Boca Jrs. Obras at the other side dropped to the third position with three games lost. Lanus' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Buenos Aires Boca Juniors.
Top scorers:
Lanus: W.McFarlan 20+5reb, A.Boccia 11+4reb, C.Schattmann 11+3reb+1ast, N.Laprovittola 9+2reb+6ast, R.Battle 8+5reb+1ast, P.Prato 7+2reb+1ast
Obras: J.Gutierrez 28+12reb+1ast, P.Espinoza 13+3reb, M.Osimani 9+6reb+2ast, J.Mazzaro 8+4reb, T.Field 6+7reb, A.Konsztatd 5+1ast

Wuber-Est.Bahia - Argentino 82-68

LigaA round 7 caused change at the leadership position. Second defeat of league's leader Argentino (5-2) against eighth ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (2-4) 82-68 was the most important game of the last round. The game was mostly controlled by Wuber-Est.Bahia. Argentino managed to win second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Wuber-Est.Bahia forced 22 Argentino turnovers. Strangely Argentino outrebounded Wuber-Est.Bahia 36-24 including 25 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Argentino helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Marcus Fizer (203-78, college: Iowa St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 29 points and 12 rebounds. Swingman Juan Manuel Rivero (191-85) contributed with 18 points for the winners. The former international point guard Nicolas De los Santos (180-88) answered with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and American forward Kavon Lytch (199-87, college: Oklahoma City) added 14 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Argentino. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Wuber-Est.Bahia moved-up to seventh place in South. Newly promoted Argentino dropped to the second position with two games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Penarol who have the same record. Argentino will play next round against league's leader Penarol trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Wuber-Est.Bahia will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked 9 de Julio in Rio Tercero.
Top scorers:
Wuber-Est.Bahia: M.Fizer 29+12reb+2ast, J.Manuel Rivero 18+2reb+3ast, R.Roby 10+2reb, L.Faggiano 10+1reb+5ast, M.Mieres 7+1reb, V.Baldo 5+3reb+1ast
Argentino: N.De los Santos 18+6reb+5ast, B.Carlwell 14+8reb, K.Lytch 14+6reb+2ast, A.Weigand 13+6reb, J.Morris 6+4reb, G.Luchino 3+3reb+1ast

GECR Indalo - Obras 95-85

There was a surprise result when sixth ranked GECR Indalo (3-4) defeated much higher ranked Obras (4-3) in Comodoro R. 95-85 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by GECR Indalo. Obras was better in third quarter 27-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. GECR Indalo shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Quite impressive performance for American power forward Kahiem Seawright (203-86, college: Rhode Island, agency: Edge Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Naturalized Italian point guard Diego Ciorciari (184-80, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 14 points and 5 assists for the winners. GECR Indalo's coach Miguel Volcan used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Puerto Rican swingman David Huertas (195-87, college: Mississippi) answered with 22 points and international power forward Juan Gutierrez (205-83) added 11 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Obras. Five GECR Indalo and four Obras players scored in double figures. GECR Indalo maintains sixth place in South with 3-4 record. Loser Obras dropped to the third position with three games lost. GECR Indalo will face again higher ranked Obras (#3) in Buenos Aires in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
GECR Indalo: K.Seawright 19+13reb+1ast, M.Byro 17+2ast, D.Jackson 14+3reb+2ast, D.Ciorciari 14+2reb+5ast, S.Scala 11, D.Romero 10+5reb+1ast
Obras: D.Huertas 22+3reb+1ast, M.Osimani 18+2reb+2ast, J.Mazzaro 12+3reb+1ast, J.Gutierrez 11+11reb+1ast, D.Fitzgerald 9+1reb+1ast, P.Espinoza 8+4reb

Atenas - Sionista 77-79

An interesting game was also home defeat of 6th ranked Atenas in a game in Cordoba versus Sionista (#4) 79-77. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 25-21 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Sionista dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Atenas' 32. It was an exceptional evening for international point guard Luis Cequeira (180-85) who led the winners and scored 21 points and 6 assists. American center Jerome Meyinsse (206-88, college: Virginia, agency: Dream Team Management) accounted for 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Power forward Mariano Fierro (201-86) came up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds and international guard Alexis Elsener (193-88) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Atenas in the defeat. Sionista maintains fourth place in North with 4-4 record. Atenas lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Sionista will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Atenas will play again against Sionista (#4) in Parana and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sionista: L.Cequeira 21+6ast, J.Meyinsse 13+7reb, D.Hure 13+4reb+1ast, E.Spalla 7+6reb, L.Gonzalez 6+2reb+2ast, J.Pittman 6+3reb
Atenas: A.Elsener 17+5reb, M.Fierro 17+13reb+2ast, B.Labaque 11+2reb+4ast, J.Bulfoni 9+1reb+1ast, M.Lescano 6+1reb+4ast, J.Aprea 6+3reb

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

34-year old power forward Marcus Fizer (203-F/C-78) put on an amazing game in the last round for Wuber-Est.Bahia and receives a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
He had a double-double of 29 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Argentino (#2, 5-2) 82-68. Wuber-Est.Bahia is placed at 7th position in Argentinian league. Wuber-Est.Bahia is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 2-4 record. Fizer turned to be Wuber-Est.Bahia's top player in his first season with the team. Iowa State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Fizer is in league's top in points (8th best: 17.2ppg) and averages solid 53.3% from behind 3-point line.

Second best performed player last round was Darren Phillip (201-F-78) of Union Progr.. He is British-American forward in his first season at Union Progr.. In the last game Phillip recorded impressive double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds. It was enough for Union Progr. to edge slightly higher-ranked Quimsa (#6, 2-4) by 6 points 91-85. This victory allowed Union Progr. to move up to 7th position in North. 5 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Union Progr. managed to get this year. Phillip is a newcomer at Union Progr. and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras (#3). Gutierrez scored 28 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Gutierrez's great performance Obras lost 74-76 to slightly lower-ranked Lanus (#5, 3-3). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Obras needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in South. Their record is 4 victories and 3 lost games. Gutierrez has a great season in Argentina. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.2ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 9.4rpg (3rd best). Juan Gutierrez has also Argentinian passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ariel Pau (186-G/F-84) of Olimpico LB - 28 points
5. Sam Clancy (202-C-80) of Olimpico LB - 14 points and 13 rebounds
6. Kahiem Seawright (203-C/F-86) of GECR Indalo - 19 points and 13 rebounds
7. Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91) of Penarol - 8 points, 4 rebounds and 12 assists
8. Marcos Mata (201-SF-86) of Penarol - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Kahiem Seawright (203-C/F-86) of GECR Indalo - 19 points and 10 rebounds
10. Mariano Fierro (201-F/C-86) of Atenas - 17 points, 13 rebounds and 2 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)

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BOSNIA

Bosnians shine in early season NBA European team matchups! - by Chris Mathieu

Bosnians shine in early season NBA European team matchups!
Bosnians have played a big part in the first two matches held between NBA teams and European clubs. In the big upset of Fenerbahces win over the Boston Celtics two Bosnians who were drafted by NBA clubs played key roles in the teams 97-91 victory. Bosnian Bojan Bogdanovic scored 11 points with 2 rebounds 2 assists and a steal. Fellow Bosnian and NBA draft pick Emir Preldzic (205-SF-87, agency: Beo Basket) didnt shoot well scoring 4 points on 2-7 from the field but contributed 4 rebounds 4 assists and a steal. Naturalized Macedonian Bo McCaleb proved once again he belongs on the hardwoods with the elite players in the world, led the upset with 21 points 4 rebounds, 5 assists and two steals on a very efficient 9-14 from the field. The fact that a team in the NBA hasnt offered him a big contract doesnt make sense considering he is the best basketball player not currently in the NBA.

Alba Berlin almost pulled off another upset of an NBA team losing in the end 84-89 to the Dallas Mavericks. Two Bosnians played a key role for Alba Berlin in the near upset, Bosnian Vule Avdalovic from Gacko scored 13 points and dished out 4 assists, providing hope for Alba Berlin that his injuries of the last few years are a thing of the past. Fellow Bosnian Nihad Dedovic also put on a show for Alba as well scoring 15 points and pulling down 5 boards. Nihad is coming off a very strong summer showing with Bosnia and appears to be out to prove to those who passed on him in last years NBA draft that they made a mistake. Former NBAer Deon Thompson led the effort for Alba with 20 points 5 rebounds and four steals.

Bosnias youth and senior teams are coming off very successful summer campaigns and star Mirza Teletovic is attempting to break into the NBA with the Brooklyn Nets after being the best power forward in Europe the last few years.

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BRAZIL

Standings - NLB

Carioca Standings

1. Flamengo		3-0
2. Tijuca TC		2-1
3. Riachuelo TC		1-2
4. Botafogo		0-3

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 5: Flamengo - Tijuca TC 99-61
Oct. 1: Flamengo - Botafogo 90-49
Sep. 28: Tijuca TC - Botafogo 86-64
Oct. 5: Botafogo - Riachuelo TC 72-74
Sep. 28: Riachuelo TC - Flamengo 39-134
Oct. 1: Tijuca TC - Riachuelo TC 103-66

Regular Season: Round 2

Oct. 15: Flamengo - Riachuelo TC
Oct. 15: Botafogo - Tijuca TC
Oct. 17: Riachuelo TC - Tijuca TC
Oct. 17: Botafogo - Flamengo
Oct. 19: Riachuelo TC - Botafogo
Oct. 19: Tijuca TC - Flamengo

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COLOMBIA

Antoine Boxsie arrives to Manizales - by Victor Garcia

American center Antoine Broxsie (209-F-79, college: Oklahoma St.) arrived to Manizales to replace the injurd Terrance Gamble as the Once Caldas center, Broxsie 32 years old is a veteran and experienced player, very well know in latinamerica for his rebounding and shot blocking performance.
Broxsie has been playing y many countries: Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Kuwait, Dominican Republic, Venezuela and Japan.
Once Caldas is in the third place of the standings already.

FEDERATION CUP 2012, DAY 17 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia

Bukaros defeated Hormigueros in first of four games between the Bucaramanga teams, Hormigueros in the 9th place is trying to get a place among the top eight, Bukaros keeps the second place in the standings.
Hormigueros 78
Bukaros 89.

Once Caldas again had to trust on the scoring power of its American duo of TayronThomas and Alpha Bangura (197-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: St.John's) to defeat the Cafeteros, Cafeteros was leaded by Darri Dorsey again.
Once Caldas 91 T. Thomas 33 pts
Cafeteros 84 D. Dorsey 33 pts.

Guerreros got its 9th straight victory at home defeating the Patriotas in Bogot, Guerreros took the lead since the beginning and never look back, Stalin Ortiz leaded the Guerreros with 32 pts, 23 of them in the first half.
Guerreros 102 S. Ortiz 32 pts
Patriotas 71 J. Watson 31 pts.

After several meetings to solve the financial crisis the Arrieros accepted to played its game and defeated the Nuevo Choco team, but the Arrieros future is in doubt.
Arrieros 84
Nuevo Choco 70

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CYPRUS

Apollon Qualifies for EuroChallenge Group Stages - by Nima Siar

Limassol, CY. Pizza Express Apollon Limassol and Austrian side Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg faced off in the second leg of the EuroChallenge Qualifiers for a spot in the competition's group stages. Apollon went into the game not only with home court advantage but and eight point aggregate point lead. Apollon was looking to secure its first European birth since the 2006-07 season while Xion Dukes had not played a European tournament since a Korac Cup appearance in the 2000-01 season.
The game started with Xion Dukes catching the home team off guard as they jumped to an early 9-2 lead. Led by a couple fast breaks from Majic Dorsey (24pts, 10/21 FG, 6 ast) Apollon went on a 10-0 run and maintained control for most the game. In the first half the visiting team did make the game close after a 3 from Christoph Nagler (17 pts, 6 ast) which pulled Xion within three points 41-38.

To start the second half Apollon seemed a little sluggish which allowed the visitors to get back in the game and lead by as much as five points but this surge was short lived and the home team never looked back led by strong play from Brandon Brown (23 pts, 54% fg, 10 reb, 2 stl) and Marvin Jefferson (19 pts, 13 reb, 2 blk) helping the team to a 96-90 win and berth in the 2012-13 EuroChallenge Tournament. Apollon will have its work cut out as they will have to face French sides BCM Gravelines, Sluc Nancy Basket Pro and Belarussian powerhouse Tsmoki-Minsk.

The lack of a legitimate big man for both teams led to a very fast paced game and primarily 1 shot possessions. Although Apollon seemed to have control for most the game, there was 15 lead changes and both teams had double digit scoring runs early in the game. Apollon's 44-32 points in the paint advantage turned out to be the difference.

Game Stats:
Pizza Express Apollon Limassol:
53% FG, 26% 3pt, 57% FT, 11 ast

Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg:
45% FG, 85% FT, 21 ast

* stats provided by Cyprus Basketball Federation *

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DENMARK

Ligaen Round 4: No surprise as #1 Bakken defeats Randers - by Eurobasket News

After 4 rounds played we can already see who rules in the Ligaen and who belongs to weaker ones.

Ligaen top team - Bakken (4-0) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they beat eighth ranked Randers (0-3) in Aarhus 95-77. The game without a history. Bakken led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 20 Randers turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Bakken especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. Worth to mention a quality performance of Jamaican forward Orane Chin (200-88, college: CS Fullerton) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 9 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC) who added 15 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals during the contest. At the losing side forward Damian Ocana (198-86) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Bakken have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Svendborg. Newly promoted Randers still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Aalborg. Bakken will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Randers will play on the road against SISU (#3) in Copenhagen and hope to get finally their first victory.
Bottom-ranked Vaerlose (0-2) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their second consecutive match to sixth ranked Horsens IC (2-2) 79-65. The winners were led by American center Keane Thomann (211-89, college: Missouri So.) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and Darko Jukic supported him with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Even 21 points and 4 assists by American guard Richard Delk (193-86, college: Troy) did not help to save the game for Vaerlose. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Horsens IC maintains sixth position with 2-2 record. Vaerlose at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. Horsens IC will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Vaerlose will play at home against the league's second-placed Svendborg (#2) and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Bottom-ranked Aalborg (0-3) is still winless. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. This time they lost on the road their third consecutive match to top-ranked Svendborg (4-0) 102-81 on Saturday evening. Donald Rutherford fired 25 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used entire bench saving starting five for next games. Ryan Willen produced 27 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Svendborg have a solid four-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Bakken. Loser Aalborg still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Randers. Svendborg will meet Vaerlose (#7) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Aalborg will play against Horsholm and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Bottom-ranked Horsholm (0-4) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fourth consecutive match to third ranked SISU (3-1) 103-96. Worth to mention a great performance of Mikael Nielsen who helped to win the game recording 24 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. SISU's coach Almir Zeco allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. SISU maintains third position with 3-1 record behind leader Bakken. Horsholm at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. SISU's next round opponent will be Randers (#9) at home where they are favorite. Horsholm will play against Aalborg and looks forward to get finally their first victory.

Vaerlose - Horsens IC 65-79

Bottom-ranked Vaerlose (0-2) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their second consecutive match to sixth ranked Horsens IC (2-2) 79-65. It looked good early as Vaerlose took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Horsens IC had a 19-13 second period charge getting the lead and Vaerlose was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 65-79. The winners were led by American center Keane Thomann (211-89, college: Missouri So.) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and international guard Darko Jukic (198-90) supported him with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Even 21 points and 4 assists by American guard Richard Delk (193-86, college: Troy) did not help to save the game for Vaerlose. Icelandic Axel Karason (194-83) added 13 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Horsens IC maintains sixth position with 2-2 record. Vaerlose at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. Horsens IC will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Vaerlose will play at home against the league's second-placed Svendborg (#2) and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Vaerlose: R.Delk 21+4reb+4ast, P.Moller 14+4reb+3ast, A.Karason 13+7reb+2ast, J.Baker 10+5reb, N.Christensen 3+2ast, M.Fabricius 2+1reb
Horsens IC: K.Thomann 22+10reb, D.Jukic 16+6reb, D.Friedrich 12+1reb+2ast, S.Bowlin 11+4reb+4ast, F.Rungby 7+4reb+4ast, M.Sakne 6+2reb+1ast

Bakken - Randers 95-77

Ligaen top team - Bakken (4-0) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they beat eighth ranked Randers (0-3) in Aarhus 95-77. The game without a history. Bakken led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 20 Randers turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Bakken especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. Worth to mention a quality performance of Jamaican forward Orane Chin (200-88, college: CS Fullerton) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 9 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC) who added 15 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals during the contest. Five Bakken players scored in double figures. At the losing side forward Damian Ocana (198-86) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds and guard Mike Nielsen (191-91) scored 13 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Bakken have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Svendborg. Newly promoted Randers still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Aalborg. Bakken will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Randers will play on the road against SISU (#3) in Copenhagen and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Randers: D.Ocana 24+13reb, M.Nielsen 13+2reb+3ast, M.Ortega 9+5reb+1ast, P.Nielsen 8+2reb+2ast, C.Jorgensen 8+5reb, M.Vahl 8+3reb
Bakken: O.Chin 23+9reb, A.Jakobsen 19+2reb+3ast, C.Tomko 19+2reb+4ast, N.Iversen 15+9reb+7ast, M.Sahlertz 11+1ast, J.Jensen 4+3reb

Svendborg - Aalborg 102-81

Bottom-ranked Aalborg (0-3) is still winless. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. This time they lost on the road their third consecutive match to top-ranked Svendborg (4-0) 102-81 on Saturday evening. The game was mostly controlled by Svendborg. Aalborg managed to win fourth quarter 27-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Svendborg dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Aalborg's 44. Svendborg forced 21 Aalborg turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American power forward Donald Rutherford (199-87, college: Catawba) fired 25 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86) chipped in 19 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Five Svendborg players scored in double figures. Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used entire bench saving starting five for next games. American power forward Ryan Willen (204-89, college: Lafayette) produced 27 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Rob Delaney (194-89, college: Lafayette, agency: SDJ Sports) added 21 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Svendborg have a solid four-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Bakken. Loser Aalborg still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Randers. Svendborg will meet Vaerlose (#7) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Aalborg will play against Horsholm and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Aalborg: R.Willen 27+9reb+2ast, R.Delaney 21+1reb+4ast, M.Rasmussen 11+3reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 6+8reb+2ast, R.Lauridsen 6+4reb+3ast, J.Kristiansen 3+2reb
Svendborg: D.Rutherford 25+8reb+2ast, A.Darboe 19+8reb+7ast, C.Magaard 15+2reb, G.Washington 14+8reb+1ast, M.Plannthin 10+4reb+3ast, A.Haddad 9+2reb

Horsholm - SISU 96-103

Bottom-ranked Horsholm (0-4) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fourth consecutive match to third ranked SISU (3-1) 103-96. It looked good early as Horsholm took an 10-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then SISU took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 7 points. They made 16-of-19 charity shots (84.2 percent) during the game. SISU outrebounded Horsholm 35-24 including 22 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of international point guard Mikael Nielsen (178-90) who helped to win the game recording 24 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international guard Mike Flowers (194-86, college: Barton, NC) contributed with 25 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. SISU's coach Almir Zeco allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Brenton Butler (190-87, college: Fordham) replied with 27 points and 4 assists and the former international forward Casper Hesseldal (198-85, college: Dickinson St., agency: Dynamics Global Management) added 20 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Horsholm. Five SISU and four Horsholm players scored in double figures. SISU maintains third position with 3-1 record behind leader Bakken. Horsholm at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. SISU's next round opponent will be Randers (#9) at home where they are favorite. Horsholm will play against Aalborg and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: B.Butler 27+4reb+4ast, C.Hesseldal 20+8reb+2ast, R.Hansen 15+4reb+1ast, A.Kovacs 15+2reb+1ast, Z.Jukic 7+1reb+2ast, B.Marinkovic 7+2ast
SISU: M.Flowers 25+8reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 24+6reb+6ast, D.Smith 19+5reb, M.Dennis 18+3reb+7ast, Z.Moritz 10+8reb+3ast, O.Bonde 3

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Caneros are crowned LNB Champions - by Eurobasket News

Caneros - Indios SF 100:97 (OT)

Caneros celebrated LNB title. They outscored Indios SF in overtime to mount the LNB pedestal. Caneros regained the title they last won in 2010. Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) stepped up with 28 points to lead the winners. Mario West (195-G-84, college: Georgia Tech) was named the MVP of the Finals.
The teams stayed close before Indios SF went on a 12:0 rally and accumulated a 48:38 halftime lead. Caneros responded with an 11:0 run in the third term to gain a 49:48 lead. Caneros made it 69:65 heading into the fourth frame. Alejandro Carmona dominate in the court as he unleashed 22 points in the second half. Indios SF refused to surrender as they sent the game into overtime. But Caneros survived the challenge and celebrate a historic victory at the end. Maurice Baker (184-PG-79, college: Oklahoma St.) notched 21 points, while Edward Santana (203-F-80, agency: Regeneracom Sports) added 17 points for the winners. Robert Glenn (201-F/C-89, college: IUPUI) answered with 22 points for Indios SF. Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City) netted 18 points in the loss.

Caneros: Alejandro Carmona 28, Maurice Baker 21, Edward Santana 17, Mario West 15
Indios SF: Robert Glenn 22, Ollie Bailey 18

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FINLAND

1st Division Round 1 results and stats - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in 1st Division just started.

Group A

ToPo - Tapiolan Honka 60-72

It looked good early as Torpan Pojat took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Tapiolan Honka had a 23-13 second period charge getting the lead and Torpan Pojat was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-72. Torpan Pojat was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American swingman Ronnie Clark (195-81) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import forward Eric Brennan (201-89, college: Kutztown) chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds. At the losing side American forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) responded with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and forward Sad Niskanen (198-88) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds.

Top scorers:
Tapiolan Honka: R.Clark 22+14reb+1ast, E.Brennan 17+9reb, J.Jarvinen 11+5reb+4ast, A.Vanjoki 7+3reb+1ast, I.Sirola 7+7reb, N.Hoglund 6+2reb
ToPo: H.Coleman 26+9reb+4ast, S.Niskanen 13+5reb+1ast, D.Ginty 9+6reb+1ast, T.Kulha 4+2reb, M.Jamsa 4, S.Beatovic 2

SayRi - Huima 78-65

The game was mostly controlled by Saynatsalon Riento. Aanekosken Huima was better in fourth quarter 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American players dominated also this game. It was a very good performance for forward Nicholas Pederson (203-85) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. Power forward Eryk Thomas (200-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) contributed with 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Pederson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. Four Saynatsalon Riento players scored in double figures. Guard Andre Stephens (180-87, college: S.Mississippi) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 20 rebounds and forward Kent Tribbett (204-86, college: Drexel, agency: Prossin Sports Management) added 14 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Aanekosken Huima.

Top scorers:
SayRi: N.Pederson 21+11reb+3ast, C.Collins 18+3reb+1ast, E.Thomas 11+8reb+4ast, J.Parkkinen 11+6reb, K.Naukkarinen 8+5reb, T.Kuukkanen 4+1reb+1ast
Huima: A.Stephens 22+20reb, S.Mantymaa 16+5reb, K.Tribbett 14+8reb, P.Ranta 8+2reb+1ast, S.Kajander 3+2reb+1ast, M.Santa 2+2reb

Ura Basket - Oulun NMKY 83-97

The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 97-83. Oulun NMKY outrebounded Ura Basket 48-30 including a 34-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. American players dominated the game. Swingman Dwight Coleman (203-84, college: Dallas Baptist) nailed a double-double by scoring 27 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and swingman Josh Nofflet (194-88, college: Lee) accounted for 22 points and 10 rebounds. Four Oulun NMKY players scored in double figures. Guard Nolan Richardson (188-84, college: Midwestern St.) came up with 23 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and swingman Bobby Nash (198-84) added 20 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Ura Basket in the defeat.

Top scorers:
Oulun NMKY: D.Coleman 27+13reb+1ast, J.Nofflet 22+10reb+1ast, F.Russell 19+5reb+3ast, H.Vihavainen 16+7reb+1ast, J.Vanttaja 8+6reb+1ast, J.Kauro 5+4reb
Ura Basket: N.Richardson 23+5reb+4ast, B.Nash 20+8reb, T.Ritanotko 14+9reb+1ast, M.Ahokas 9+2reb+1ast, J.Kukkonen 8+2reb+2ast, S.Latvala 6+2reb

BC Nokia - Porvoon Tarmo 80-84

It looked good early as BC Nokia took an 19-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Porvoon Tarmo took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 4 points. American forward Jerrah Young (201-85, college: Toledo) fired a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Forward Jarno Nissinen (195-77) chipped in 19 points. Young is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Porvoon Tarmo players scored in double figures. American power forward Brian Moultrie (198-87, college: Armstr.Atlantic) produced a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 17 rebounds and swingman Henri Jokinen (195-92) added 17 points respectively for lost side.

Top scorers:
Porvoon Tarmo: J.Young 20+10reb, J.Nissinen 19+4reb+2ast, T.Hartikainen 11+3reb, M.Holme 11+4reb+1ast, I.Tate 11+4reb+2ast, J.Kyllonen 6+2reb+1ast
BC Nokia: B.Moultrie 36+17reb+2ast, H.Jokinen 17+4reb, T.Riihela 13+6reb+1ast, V.Tuominen 6+1reb+1ast, T.Kankaanpaa 4+3reb, S.Hopkins 2+1reb

Group B

KaU Koris - Espoo Basket 72-55

The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-55. It was a very good performance for forward Sami Syrjala (197-81) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 10 points and 15 rebounds. Center Lauri Jarvinen (185-85) contributed with 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Five KaU Koris players scored in double figures. Power forward Joonas Suotamo (209-86, college: Penn St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and forward Oscar Andersen (195-93) added 10 points in the effort for Espoo Basket.

Top scorers:
KaU Koris: T.Sakala 13+3reb, K.Tolvanen 12+3reb+2ast, J.Kinnunen 10+5reb+1ast, S.Syrjala 10+15reb+1ast, L.Jarvinen 10+5reb+2ast, T.Heiskanen 10+2ast
Espoo Basket: J.Suotamo 20+10reb+2ast, O.Andersen 10+4reb, J.Domingues Del Villar 6+3reb, M.Jantunen 6+2reb, A.Laukkanen 6+3reb+1ast, M.Tammi 4+8reb+2ast

JyWe - HBA-Marsky 69-76

JyWe trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 23-18 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-76 at the end of the game. HBA-Marsky forced 20 JyWe turnovers. Strangely JyWe outrebounded HBA-Marsky 41-18 including a 30-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. JyWe was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for guard Joni Herrala (190-94) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 5 steals. Oskar Michelsen (203-95) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Four HBA-Marsky players scored in double figures. Center Harri Keskitalo (210-90) answered with 9 points and 14 rebounds and forward Ville Pyykkonen (203-77) added 16 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for JyWe.

Top scorers:
HBA-Marsky: J.Herrala 16+3reb+3ast, J.Rajala 14+2reb, O.Michelsen 14+3reb+1ast, M.Kauhanen 10+2reb, M.Nuolivirta 8+3reb, M.Vallila 6
JyWe: V.Pyykkonen 16+7reb, M.Vilhunen 13+3ast, H.Keskitalo 9+14reb+1ast, J.Hautsalo 9+2reb, J.Laine 9+4reb, A.Rantanen 5+2reb

TuNMKY - BC Jyvaskyla 73-51

TuNMKY led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 21 BC Jyvaskyla turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Sakari Salminen (200-87) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Dariush Hazrati (186-94) contributed with 22 points for the winners. Center Miikka Markkanen (200-93) answered with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks and forward Samir Itani (192-90) added 4 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for BC Jyvaskyla. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.

Top scorers:
TuNMKY: D.Hazrati 22+2reb, S.Salminen 22+8reb+1ast, T.Soinio 6+2reb, K.Huovinen 5+4reb+1ast, J.Valtonen 5+1reb+1ast, O.Lindqvist 5+6reb+3ast
BC Jyvaskyla: M.Markkanen 10+11reb+1ast, O.Lehtonen 8, K.Kuokkanen 8+9reb, M.Manninen 7+8reb+1ast, T.Manninen 6+4reb, T.Toyryla 5+1reb

Jarvenpaa - Kerava ET 83-77

The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Quite impressive performance for forward Visa Tarjanne (193-93) who helped to win the game recording 30 points. Center Otso Laakkonen (197-93) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Jarvenpaa players scored in double figures. Cameroonian forward Arsene Towa (191-81) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and point guard Robert Juvonen (185-91) added 17 points in the effort for Kerava Energia Team. Kerava Energia Team's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.

Top scorers:
Jarvenpaa: V.Tarjanne 30+2reb, O.Laakkonen 18+6reb+2ast, J.Hanninen 12+7reb+4ast, J.Viita 11+4reb, J.Mantyla 9+4reb+2ast, L.Tukia 3+5reb+1ast
Kerava ET: A.Towa 22+13reb, R.Juvonen 17+3reb+3ast, R.Mua 17+5reb, L.Trice Little 9+6reb, K.Kohtala 5+1reb, A.Heiskanen 4+4reb

KORISLIIGA: FoKoPo and Kouvot won after OT - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 2: FoKoPo (Forssa) and YMCA Lappeenranta needed an OT and then the hosts, FoKoPo players had won by four 102-98 (86) (39-46). American Andrais Thornton (203-F-85, college: NW Missouri St.) was the hero, who pushed FoKoPo into OT by scoring a 2-pointer at 39:49. Then during the extra 5 minutes FoKoPo was leading all the time. Sami Ikavalko (188-G-89), game MVP, made 4/4 FTs during the last 12 seconds and FoKoPo had won the thriller. Ikavalko scored 30 points altogether. Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Missouri) led YMCA LPR with 28 pts.
At Salo local Vilpas beat Korikobrat (Lapua) 94-80 (47-29) thanks to the excellent second quarter (28-10). Marquis Hall (183-PG-87, college: Lehigh) scored 31 pta for the hosts. Young Ilmari Kallio (187-G-92) netted his personal best 14 pts. B.J. Holmes (180-PG-88, college: Texas A&M) led Lapua with 22 pts.
Another OT game of tonight was the TV-game Kouvot (Kouvola) vs YMCA Lahti. Kouvot won by four 101-97 (89) (48-44). It was Louis Johnson (206-F/C-86, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: W.Illinois) (YMCA Lahti) who tied the game at the buzzer, but Antto Nikkarinen (185-PG-91) (Kouvot) led the hosts to the season opening victory. Chris Hester (192-G/F-79, college: E.Washington) led Kouvot with a double-double 25pts/13rbs. Nikkarinen added 21pts and gave six assists. Roope Suonio (176-PG-82) scored 21 pts for YMCA Lahti. Johnson added 20 pts.
FoKoPo - YMCA LPR OT 102-98 (86) (39-46). (F: Sami Ikavalko 30, Charles Burgess 26/11, Andrais Thornton 17/9 - L: Jason Conley 28/9, Matt Gibson 26, Henri Valimaa 10).
Vilpas - Lapua 94-80 (47-29). (S: Marquis Hall 31/6, Shawn Atupem 14/8, Ilmari Kallio 14 - L: BJ Holmes 22/5a, Chris Commons 21, Dwight Tolbert 19/13).
Kouvot - YMCA Lahti OT 101-97 (89) (48-44). (K: Chris Hester 25/13, Antto Nikkarinen 21/6a, Ilari Seppala 16/5a - L: Roope Suonio 21, Louis Johnson 20, Emmanuel Holloway 17).
In Division 1 A Ura Basket (Kaarina) lost at home vs YMCA Oulu 83-97 (43-45). Nolan Richardson led Ura Basket with 23 pts. Bobby Nash added 20 pts. YMCA Oulu got 27pts/13rbs from Dwight Coleman. Josh Nofflet scored 22 pts and grabbed 10 rbs. Frederick Russell had 19 pts.

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FRANCE

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Wilbert BROWN
  Maurienne
  (200-PF-84)
  Avg: 28.5

1. Brown, Maurienne	28.5
2. McKines, Rouen	24.5
3. Gay, Le Portel	23.5
4. Flowers, Denain	22.0
5. Blue, Antibes	21.5
6. McIntosh, Hyeres-.	21.0
7. Davis, Fos Ouest	21.0
8. Craven, St Vallier	20.5
9. Wood, Evreux	20.0
10. Hilliard, Antibes	19.5

Rebounds Per Game

Julien LESIEU
  St Quentin
  (201-C/F-83)
  Avg: 15

1. Lesieu, St Quentin	15.0
2. Bing, Maurienne	12.5
3. Wood, Evreux	11.5
4. Jackson, Pau-La.	11.5
5. Mathis, Nantes	10.5
6. Brown, Maurienne	9.5
7. Sonko, Bourg	9.5
8. McKines, Rouen	9.0
9. Ho You Fat, Evreux	9.0
10. Rouse, St Vallier	8.5

Assists Per Game

Errick CRAVEN
  St Vallier
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 8

1. Craven, St Vallier	8.0
2. Taylor, Le Portel	7.5
3. Bassett, Rouen	7.5
4. Huffman, Antibes	7.0
5. Da Silva, Rouen	6.5
6. Hilliard, Antibes	6.5
7. Gomez, Nantes	6.0
8. Calvez, Charleville	5.5
9. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.5
10. Wood, Evreux	5.0

Steals Per Game

Pierric POUPET
  Chalons-.
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Poupet, Chalons-.	3.5
2. Gomez, Nantes	3.5
3. Johnson, Chalons-.	3.5
4. Hoyaux, St Vallier	3.5
5. Var, Boulogne	3.0
6. McCray, Boulogne	3.0
7. Craven, St Vallier	3.0
8. Jackson, Pau-La.	2.5
9. Dumas, Bourg	2.5
10. McIntosh, Hyeres.	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Tai WESLEY
  Rouen
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Wesley, Rouen	2.5
2. Ho You Fat, Evreux	2.0
3. Badiane, Antibes	2.0
4. Gayon, Nantes	1.5
5. Williams, St Quent.	1.5
6. Flowers, Denain	1.5
7. Taccoen, Lille	1.5
8. Badiane, St Quent.	1.5
9. Blue, Antibes	1.0
10. Henry, Nantes	1.0

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Antibes		2-0
2. Bourg		2-0
3. Charleville		2-0
4. Evreux		2-0
5. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		2-0
6. Maurienne		1-1
7. Nantes		1-1
8. Boulogne		1-1
9. Chalons-Reims		1-1
10. Le Portel		1-1
11. Lille		1-1
12. Rouen		1-1
13. St Quentin		1-1
14. Bordeaux		0-2
15. Denain		0-2
16. Fos Ouest		0-2
17. Hyeres-Toulon		0-2
18. St Vallier		0-2

Regular Season: Round 2

Oct. 6: Boulogne - St Vallier 94-87 OT
Oct. 5: St Quentin - Nantes 86-92
Oct. 5: Pau-Lacq-Orthez - Maurienne 84-72
Oct. 5: Antibes - Lille 82-61
Oct. 5: Fos Ouest - Le Portel 77-79
Oct. 5: Evreux - Chalons-Reims 70-56
Oct. 5: Hyeres-Toulon - Charleville 66-80
Oct. 5: Bordeaux - Bourg 60-76
Oct. 5: Rouen - Denain 104-81

Regular Season: Round 3

Oct. 12: Chalons-Reims - Antibes
Oct. 12: Denain - Boulogne
Oct. 12: Le Portel - Bordeaux
Oct. 12: Evreux - St Quentin
Oct. 12: Nantes - Fos Ouest
Oct. 13: Bourg - Pau-Lacq-Orthez
Oct. 13: St Vallier - Rouen
Oct. 12: Lille - Hyeres-Toulon
Oct. 12: Charleville - Maurienne

ProB: Round 2 review - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Regular Season in ProB.

Boulogne - St Vallier 94-87 OT
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Saint Vallier won third quarter 20-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Saint Vallier used huge pressure winning it 20-11 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 5-12. SO Maritime Boulogne made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 28 Saint Vallier turnovers. SO Maritime Boulogne looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. American forward Ken Horton (199-89, college: Cent.Conn.St.) had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import swingman Chris McCray (196-84, college: Maryland) chipped in 19 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) during the contest. American-Ivorian guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC) responded with 21 points, 9 assists and 4 steals and guard Jonathan Hoyaux (192-88) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Boulogne: K.Horton 21+11reb+1ast, M.Le Pellec 21+5reb+2ast, C.McCray 19+5reb+6ast, Z.Bah 16+1reb+8ast, M.Jaiteh 7+5reb, V.Bigote 5+2reb+4ast
St Vallier: E.Craven 21+3reb+9ast, J.Hoyaux 19+6reb+1ast, F.Tortosa 15+3reb+2ast, C.Rouse 13+8reb, H.Disy 10+2reb, I.Koma 9+5reb+3ast

Hyeres-Toulon - Charleville 66-80
The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 80-66. Charleville-Mezieres outrebounded Hyeres-Toulon 36-23 including a 29-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American-British power forward Tafari Toney (203-86, agency: JEMsports) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. American forward Patrick Sanders (198-85, college: Cal-Irvine, agency: JEMsports) chipped in 16 points. American guard Corey McIntosh (183-85, college: Iowa St., agency: Court Side) produced 20 points, 6 assists and 4 steals (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import power forward Terence Dials (206-83, college: Ohio St.) added 10 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Five Charleville-Mezieres and four Hyeres-Toulon players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Charleville: P.Sanders 16+4reb+3ast, T.Toney 15+12reb+1ast, F.Calvez 11+3reb+2ast, V.Pridotkas 10+6reb, N.Racon 10+2reb+1ast, A.Racine 9+3reb
Hyeres-Toulon: C.McIntosh 20+2reb+6ast, J.Newson 14+3reb+2ast, A.Julien 11+6reb+3ast, T.Dials 10+9reb+2ast, B.Niang 6+2reb, G.Radonjic 5

Bordeaux - Bourg 60-76
The game was mostly controlled by JL Bourg. Bordeaux was better in fourth quarter 16-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for JL Bourg especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. The best player for the winners was Gambian forward Moses Sonko (197-83, college: Co.Carolina, agency: Two Points) who scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward David Monds (205-83, college: Oklahoma St.) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. point guard Gauthier Darrigand (184-82) produced 13 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and American power forward Thomas Coleman (205-88, college: N.Carolina A&T) added 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Bourg: D.Monds 17+5reb+1ast, M.Sonko 17+7reb+2ast, P.Braud 16+1ast, L.Williams 11+7reb+3ast, S.Dumas 5+3ast, A.Gomis 5+4reb+1ast
Bordeaux: M.Humphrey 16+1reb+1ast, G.Darrigand 13+5reb+7ast, N.Carter 12+4reb+1ast, T.Coleman 10+10reb, K.Thalien 3, M.Guichard 2+2reb+1ast

Pau-Lacq-Orthez - Maurienne 84-72
The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-72. Pau-Lacq-Orthez forced 20 Aix-Maurienne turnovers. The best player for the winners was American forward Brian Boddicker (204-81, college: Texas) who scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. David Denave (195-85) chipped in 18 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Four Pau-Lacq-Orthez players scored in double figures. Pau-Lacq-Orthez's coach Claude Bergeaud used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American Wilbert Brown (200-84, college: Niagara, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) produced 27 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Erroyl Bing (198-82, college: E.Carolina) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Pau-Lacq-Orthez: D.Denave 18+2reb+5ast, A.Mendy 16+4reb, B.Boddicker 14+8reb+4ast, C.Jackson 12+10reb+1ast, R.Lesca 10+1ast, I.Ordin 5+3reb+4ast
Maurienne: W.Brown 27+8reb, E.Bing 12+7reb+2ast, S.Darnauzan 10+3reb+3ast, W.Chism 9+8reb+2ast, G.Clerc 7+2ast, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 5+4reb

Fos Ouest - Le Portel 77-79
The guests were already 11 points ahead at halftime and as many as 12 after three quarters before a 22-12 last quarter charge of Fos Ouest cut the lead to 79-77 at the end of the game. Jamaican-American Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) notched 16 points and 9 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and guard Benoit Mangin (198-88) supported him with 18 points. Four Le Portel players scored in double figures. Le Portel's coach Eric Girard allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even 21 points and 6 rebounds by American swingman Chris Davis (195-80, college: N.Texas, agency: Court Side) did not help to save the game for Fos Ouest. His fellow American import power forward John Williamson (199-86, college: Cincinnati) added 21 points for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Le Portel: B.Mangin 18+4reb+2ast, S.Gay 16+9reb, R.Taylor 15+3reb+6ast, D.Wilson 10+4reb+2ast, M.N'Diaye 8+6reb, C.Bronchard 7+3reb+1ast
Fos Ouest: J.Williamson 21+4reb+1ast, C.Davis 21+6reb+2ast, M.Dia 17+4reb+1ast, L.Cummard 7+8reb, E.Choquet 5+3reb+2ast, P.Haquet 3+3ast

Evreux - Chalons-Reims 70-56
The game was mostly controlled by ALM Evreux. Chalons-Reims was better in second period 10-8. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. ALM Evreux forced 20 Chalons-Reims turnovers. Chalons-Reims was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Steeve Ho You Fat (203-88) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Four ALM Evreux players scored in double figures. American forward Tyren Johnson (202-88, college: La-Lafayette) replied with 21 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Justin Burrell (206-88, college: St.John's) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Chalons-Reims.
Top scorers:
Evreux: J.Wood 14+10reb+5ast, L.Konate 13+4reb+3ast, C.Hannah 13+1reb+4ast, S.Ho You Fat 12+10reb+1ast, G.Costentin 7+4reb+2ast, L.Sambe 7+1ast
Chalons-Reims: T.Johnson 21+7reb+2ast, J.Burrell 10+6reb, P.Poupet 6+4reb, K.Joss-Rauze 5+1reb+1ast, R.Mels 4+4reb+3ast, B.Mullins 4+4reb+1ast

St Quentin - Nantes 86-92
The guests trailed by 11 points at the halftime before their 54-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Nantes looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was American power forward James Mathis (200-84, college: Niagara, agency: Court Side) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists. Senegalese forward Elson Mendy (200-85) chipped in 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Nantes' coach Guillaume Quintard used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. American Darnell Williams (202-78, college: San Jose St., agency: David Lee services) produced 18 points and 9 rebounds and power forward Julien Lesieu (201-83) added 11 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Nantes: E.Mendy 18+4reb+2ast, J.Mathis 15+15reb+4ast, N.Gayon 13+3reb+2ast, L.Corbett 13, T.Henry 12+7reb+4ast, K.Idomenee 7+1ast
St Quentin: D.Williams 18+9reb+3ast, J.Ball 14+2reb+5ast, J.Lesieu 11+10reb+1ast, A.Rambur 10+3reb, O.Romain 9+1ast, A.Saaka 8+2reb+2ast

Antibes - Lille 82-61
The game was mostly controlled by Olympique Antibes. Lille Metropole was better in second period 21-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Olympique Antibes dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Lille Metropole's 42. The best player for the winners was naturalized Senegalese center Moussa Badiane (205-81, college: E.Carolina) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). American forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. American Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) produced 13 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import Jason Siggers (188-85, college: Albany) added 12 points and 5 assists respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Antibes: M.Badiane 18+12reb+1ast, T.Blue 16+9reb+2ast, S.Fein 12, A.Hilliard 11+5reb+4ast, L.Bengaber 9+2reb, B.Monclar 8+4reb+1ast
Lille: S.Bradford 13+5reb, S.Smith 13+9reb, J.Siggers 12+4reb+5ast, M.Tensorer 6+2reb+1ast, B.Gillet 5+1reb+3ast, J.MBida 4+4reb

Rouen - Denain 104-81
The game without a history. SPO Rouen led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three sinking 15 long-distance shots on high 53.6 percentage. SPO Rouen looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. The best player for the winners was American forward Wendell McKines (198-88, college: N.Mexico St.) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds. The other American import guard O'Darien Bassett (191-86, college: Troy) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 assists. Spanish center Rafael Lopez (204-86) produced 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and American forward John Flowers (200-89, college: W.Virginia, agency: KMG Sports Management) added 21 points respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Rouen: W.McKines 26+11reb+1ast, O.Bassett 17+4reb+11ast, G.Chathuant 13+5reb+1ast, M.Diarra 12+2reb, P.Da Silva 10+1reb+8ast, F.Ateba 9+2reb+4ast
Denain: J.Flowers 21+4reb, L.Humphrey 17+1reb+1ast, R.Lopez 16+6reb+4ast, M.Kitts 10+6reb+1ast, C.Cavallo 8+3reb+1ast, A.Liorel 4+2reb+6ast

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GERMANY

NBA Europe Live 2012. Dallas topple ALBA - by Eurobasket News

ALBA Berlin - Dallas Mavericks 84:89

Dallas Mavericks visited Berlin tonight as the part of NBA Europe Live Tour. They took on ALBA Berlin in front of packed O2 World Arena. Chris Kaman (7'0''-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan), Darren Collison (6'0''-PG-87, college: UCLA) and Vince Carter (6'6''-G/F-77, college: N.Carolina) scored 14 points apiece to pace the Mavericks to the victory.
It was a tight battle from the start. ALBA posted a 23:21 lead after the starting quarter. They boosted the gap to 6 points early in the second period. But the Mavs erased the deficit and O.J. Mayo put the US team in front 40:39. Dallas added five points in a row to take a 45:39 halftime lead. Dallas stretched the margin to 9 points midway through the third quarter 56:47. But ALBA refused to go away. The hosts narrowed the gap at just 4 points 61:65 with one quarter remaining. Deon Thompson (6'8''-F-88, college: N.Carolina) and Nihad Djedovic (6'6''-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) put the German team within two 65:67. Nihad Djedovic cut the deficit to a single point 80:81 but the Mavs withheld the challenge. Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) made a jumper and Novitzki and Delonte West sank free throws to secure the victory. Shawn Marion accounted for 12 points and 11 boards in the winning effort. Deon Thompson answered with 20 points for ALBA. Nihad Djedovic had 15 points in the loss.

ALBA Berlin: Deon Thompson 20, Nihad Djedovic 15
Dallas Mavericks: Chris Kaman 14, Darren Collison 14, Vince Carter 14, Shawn Marion 12+11 boards

Jacob Burtschi (Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) Bostjan Nachbar Forces You To Play Great Defense Every Possession - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 28 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is playing his first season with the Bremerhaven Eisbaeren. He played as a rookie for Phoenix Hagen in 2010-2011 averaging 14.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-3 (1.5spg), FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 82.2%. He played at the Air Force from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. Last season he played for CAI Zaragoza (Spain-ACB, starting five): 9 games: 2.6ppg, 2.4rpg; left in Nov.'11, in Dec.'11 moved to Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-BBL): German League: 22 games: 8.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 87.5%; EuroCup: 2 games: 5.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg. He spoke to Eurobasket before the home opener against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg October six.

A tough 85-68 loss in Bamberg. Bamberg had a comfortable lead at halftime. Bremerhaven came out stronger in the third to stay on the door step of Bamberg. What was key in the fourth quarter for Bamberg closing out the win?

They hit shots and got stops and we didnt.

What positives could you take out of this game? the 18-9 turnover advantage for the Eisbaeren must have been something coach Spradley might have liked?

There are a few positives. They shot 60% to our 37% and we still kept it close in the 4th until the very end. But we still have a lot of work ahead of us to be the team we know we can be.

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven shot 22% from downtown. What kind of new dimension has Chris Flemming put on their defense this season?

They rotate on defense so well and they can switch a lot of picks because of their size.

What new dimension does Bostjan Nachbar give this team that they didnt have last season?

The guy can do it all. shoot, drive, post up, mid range game, the whole package.

What was it like playing against 206cm Nachbar? Did you have any dealings with him under the basket?

The guy is a tough cover. He didnt post me up on the black but he did face me up with his mid range game. He forces you to play great defense every possession.

The next game is against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg. What is going to be the first thing you will say to Jimmy Mckinney when you see him on the court.

I will try and mess with his head and tell him his golf game is better than his hoop game. And his golf game isnt very good.

The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg seem vulnerable. They mustered only 56 points in the last preseason game against Frankfurt and lost their home opener against BBC Bayreuth. How good are the chances that Bremerhaven will win?

We feel confident. They are a great team. But we feel the same way about ourselves. We must play to our potential to have a chance to win.

If Jimmy Mckinney surprised the crowd with his tuxedo and had one for you too. Could you guys do a sponatenous Blues Brother performance on the court???

We might muster up a performance but I will let Jimmy take that over. He is good in the spot light

Whats your whole take on the 2012 Presidential race between Obama and Rommney?

Both promise a lot of things. Neither will come through with half their promises.

Thanks Jacob for the chat.

Tristan Blackwood Joins The MLP Academics Heidelberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

The MLP Academics Heidelberg have reacted to the injury to Jermaine Dixon and have brought in Tristan Blackwood (183-G-85). Blackwood is no stranger to the Beko BBL having played for varoius teams here and is a 27 year old 183cm guard from Canada. Last season he played for Phoenix Hagen (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 31 games: 8.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 40.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 83.7%. "We have been able to get a player who has experience playing in Germany. He is a different player than Jermaine but will help us with his shooting and defense", added MLP Academics Heidelberg manager Matthias Lautenschlager.

Blackwood started his basketball career with Cent.Conn.St in 2003 where he played until 2008. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 16.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 5.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 40.5%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 86.4%: Finished career at CCSU ranked sixth all-time in scoring (1,605), second in assists (506), and first in three-pointers made (328). In 2008, he turned professional and played two years in Holland for DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden. In 2010-2011, he played for JL Bourg Basket (France-ProB), in Dec.'10 moved to s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA): 12 games: 3.3ppg, 1.5apg, in March'11 signed at GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck (Germany-ProA, starting five): 5 games: 11.6ppg, 1.2rpg, 5.8apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Canadian U18 National Team -03, Global Games U18 in Dallas -03, High School Adidas All Canadian Game -04, Canadian Young National Team Camp -04, Dallas Global Games U21 -04, Canadian U21 National Team -04, 05, Tournament of the Americas U21 in Halifax -04World Championships U21 in Argentina -05, NEC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, NEC Tournament Semifinals -06, NEC Regular Season Champion -07, NEC Tournament Winner -07NEC All-Tournament Team -07, All-NEC 1st Team -07, 08, All-NEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year -07, Canadian University National Team -07, World University Championships in Bangkok -07, All-NEC Defensive Player of the Year -08, and Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Honorable Mention -10

Source: MLP Academics Heidelberg

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HUNGARY

Todd Hendley is a newcomer at PVSK Pannon - by Eurobasket News (T)

PVSK Pannonpower Pecs (A Division) strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old American forward Todd Hendley (206-107kg-84, college: NC-Wilmington). Hendley played last season at Karhu Kauhajoki in Finnish Korisliiga. In 34 Korisliiga games last year he recorded 14.9ppg and 6.0rpg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals.
Hendley was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Honorable Mention in 2010.
He has played professionally in Holland (Zwolle).
Hendley attended Univ. of N.Carolina-Wilmington until 2008 and it will be his fifth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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ICELAND

Euro news - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Sweden basketligan started on the weekend. Not a good start for the Icelandic players in the league.
Norrkoping Dolphins with Pavel Ermolinskij lost to Sodertalje 67-70. Ermolinskij dill well 18 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assist
Sundsvall Dragons lost at home to Uppsala 74-80. Hlynur Baeringsson 14 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assist. Sundsvall playing without their main scorer and leader Jakob Sigurdarson
who was not able to play because of injury. First time in his 8 years as a pro he missed a game.
In Germany MBC has played 2 games so far and lost both. Hordur Vilhjalmsson had 11 points and 2 assist in loss to Telecom Basket 76-83 and 11 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assist in loss to Phoenix Hagen 81-93

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IRELAND

Superleague Round 2: UCC Demons and UL Eagles gain second wins - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Regular Season in Superleague. Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

DCU Saints - Moycullen 81-60

DCU Saints used a home court advantage and crushed the opponent from Galway 81-60 on Saturday night. DCU Saints dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Moycullen's 38. DCU Saints forced 23 Moycullen turnovers and outrebounded them 54-40 including 21 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. American center Michael Trimmer (204-67, college: Wooster) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and forward Patrick Glover (193-77) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. American forward Patrick Sullivan (201, college: Hamilton) responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Stephen Tummon (197-90) scored 4 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. DCU Saints will meet Killester in the next round. Moycullen will play against UL Eagles in Limerick.
Top scorers:
DCU Saints: M.Trimmer 18+7reb+1ast, P.Glover 14+7reb+1ast, J.Donnelly 11+1reb, M.Nagle 10+2reb+1ast, M.Provizors 8+9reb+4ast, E.Donnelly 8+4reb+4ast
Moycullen: P.Sullivan 22+13reb+4ast, D.Costelloe 11+2ast, S.O'Brien 6+2reb+1ast, P.O'Brien 5+4reb, P.Lyons 4+3reb+2ast, S.Tummon 4+8reb+4ast

UCD Marian - B.Gais Neptune 70-64

An interesting game was played in Dublin where host UCD Marian won against B.Gais Neptune 70-64 on Saturday evening. They outrebounded B.Gais Neptune 63-43 including a 29-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. American forward John Galvin (203-88, college: Fair Dickinson) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 21 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Matthew Kelly (180-87) chipped in 10 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. American forward Darren Townes (201-86, college: Hofstra) responded with 15 points and 7 rebounds and forward Ian McLoughlin (185-85) scored 17 points. B.Gais Neptune's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. UCD Marian's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Dublin to the arena Ballon Inter.
Top scorers:
UCD Marian: J.Galvin 26+21reb+2ast, M.Kelly 10+9reb+1ast, D.James 10+6reb+1ast, C.Meany 8+4reb+2ast, B.Drumm 7+4reb+3ast, K.Foley 5+12reb+1ast
B.Gais Neptune: I.McLoughlin 17+2reb+1ast, D.Townes 15+7reb, G.Noonan 12+5reb+3ast, P.Stapleton 9+10reb+1ast, M.McGinn 6+4reb+3ast, M.Rudak 5+7reb

UL Eagles - Killester 84-59

UL Eagles (2-0) crushed Killester (1-1) 84-59 on Saturday evening. UL Eagles dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Killester's 36. The best player for the winners was the former international center Jason Killeen (211-85, college: Augusta St.) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds. American guard Robert Taylor (188-83, college: Rider) chipped in 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Taylor is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Guard Eoin Chubb (188-90) produced 14 points and guard Ciaran Roe (170-93) added 10 points and 5 steals respectively for the guests. Killester will play next round against DCU Saints trying to make it back to the top of the standings. UL Eagles will try to continue on its current victory against Moycullen in Galway.
Top scorers:
UL Eagles: J.Killeen 20+13reb, R.Taylor 18+7reb+7ast, S.Kinevane 15+3reb+6ast, N.Campbell 9+3reb+1ast, R.Lynch 7+4reb+1ast, S.King 5+5reb+1ast
Killester: E.Chubb 14+2ast, C.Roe 10+3reb+1ast, S.Patrick 8+3reb, L.Summers 8+2reb, M.Gomes 5+4reb+1ast, M.Westbrooks 4+7reb

UCC Demons - Ballon Inter 102-70

UCC Demons smashed Ballon Inter in Cork 102-70. Ballon Inter will play next round against UCD Marian trying to get back on the winning streak. UCC Demons will try to continue on its current victory against B.Gais Neptune. It will be extra interesting game as B.Gais Neptune is their local rival from Cork.

Week 2 Superleague Preview. - by Patrick Maher

Facing the unknown is how UCC Demons coach Paul Kelleher describes his sides task of taking on new Superleague outfit Dublin Inter this Sunday in Cork in week two of the Nivea for Mens Superleague.

Inter surprised more than a few with a resounding debut victory over last seasons league finalists DCU Saints.

Its really facing the unknown. They are a new team in the league, their personnel will be new to us so the early minutes of the game will involve a lot of feeling out each others tendencies, says Kelleher.

Returning forward Carlton Cuff, who missed their opening weekend win away to Moycullen in Galway, will give the Leesiders a much needed physical boost on the perimeter this Sunday, an area Kelleher has concerns about.

We were destroyed on the glass by Moycullen. It is something we will have to be better at this weekend to have a chance of winning.

The game will be Dublin Inters first trip to Cork and will serve as a benchmark test for how genuine their title aspirations are following their stunning opening weekend win. Unfortunately for head coach Audrius Jonusas, the new boys on the block will have to do so without the services of some of their brightest stars including Aurimus Statkus and Mazvydas Cepilauskus, both of whom are unavailable.

Regardless, supporters can be optimistic that Inter will bring the same spirit to Cork that they held in Dublin last weekend. We had a good win but this is a new big challenge for us and we are ready to fight for it, says Jonusas.

In Dublin, both UCD Marian and DCU Saints play host to travelling teams with Moycullen of Galway and Bord Gais Neptune of Cork their respective counterparts on Saturday night.

All four teams suffered losses during the opening weekend and will be keen to avoid falling two games behind so early in the season. Players and coaches in the Moycullen, Neptune and Marian, campss will have had many restless nights over the week, contemplating what could have been as the three teams lost by a cumulative 13 points in their openers.

According to UCD Marian coach Sasa Punosevac, this Saturdays game carries extra significance for his team as it is their only home fixture in their first four outings.

I think we have more passion for this game than for any game we will play at the start of the season. We want to win it. We know a lot about Neptune, they have some very good guards but we might be able to have an advantage inside with our big players against them, he says.

The remaining game of the weekend in the Nivea for Mens Superleague takes place in Limerick where UL Eagles face Killester in a matchup that has produced a number of memorable encounters recently.

Every game between Killester and UL over the past few years has been a close affair. We realise that the shape of

Killester has changed but they certainly had a great team spirit last weekend and won a good game against UCD, said Eagles head coach Mark Keenan.

Killester have been the subject of much of the preseason talk this year, electing to go with guard Puff Summers as their American player ahead of their usually ever present star Jermaine Turner. Perhaps because of this decision, their excellent win over UCD Marian last Saturday was keenly watched by many around the league who wait to see how the new look smaller and faster Killester fare in the early stages of this year.

Saturday October 6th 2012

Nivea For Mens Superleague
DCU Saints v Moycullen, DCU Sports Complex, 19:00; UCD Marian v Bord Gais Neptune, UCD Sports Complex, 19:10; UL Eagles v Killester, UL Arena, 19:30

Basketball Ireland Mens Division One
Maree v Donegal Town, Calasanctius College, 17:00; Matt OFlahertys Chemists Titans v Templeogue Azzurri, Renmore Community Centre, 19:00; Dublin Thunder v Team Left Bank Kilkenny, OCarroll Arena, 20:00

Sunday October 7th 2012

Nivea For Mens Superleague
UCC Demons v Dublin Inter, Mardyke Arena, 15:30

Basketball Ireland Mens Division One
Blue Demons v Ballon, Mardyke Arena, 13:00; Team Left Bank Kilkenny v Fr. Mathews, Watershed Sports Centre, 15:30

Courtesy ....

Cian Nihill

Media, Corporate & Public Relations Officer

Basketball Ireland

cnihill@basketballireland.ie

0860212923 (Fax - 014590212)

National Basketball Arena,

Tymon Park,

Tallaght, Cian Nihill (193-G-88) Carlton Cuffe (190-F-87)

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ITALY

And We're Off!!! 1-0 - by Dwight Coleman

In line with my goals, we are off to a 1-0 start. I played against a triple team all night and only had 27 points and 13 rebounds. I shot 3 for 5 from the three point line for 60% (stinky). I started out the game on a 60 point pace with 14 in the first quarter and was the obvious focal point for the opposition the rest of the game. I'm glad we ground out the victory. When I returned to update you guys on the game I was elated to see that I have what appears to be the top blog. We play again tomorrow at 2 p.m. I will update everyone on the progress of the game.

Dwight "Sweet Milk" Coleman
The Finnish 3 Point Champ!!!

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LITHUANIA

Zalgiris open VTB League campaign with road win in Krasnodar - by Eurobasket News

Lokomotiv Kuban - Zalgiris 70:78

Zalgiris opened their VTB League campaign on a high note. They overcame Lokomotiv Kuban in Krasnodar today. Rimantas Kaukenas (192-SG-77, college: Seton Hall) scored 14 points to pace the Kaunas team.
Zalgiris jumped to an early lead. The visitors enjoyed a 20:12 advantage after ten minutes. Lokomotiv struggled to get any closer as they faced a 37:27 halftime deficit. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Zalgiris maintained the advantage. They entered the fourth frame up by 10 points. The margin grew at 17-point mark in the fourth frame and Zalgiris cruised to the victory at the end. Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) posted 13 points, while Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79), Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston) and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) accounted for 10 points each in the victory. Nick Calathes (198-F-89, college: Florida) answered with 15 points for Lokomotiv. Maxim Grigoryev (195-G-90) added 12 points in the loss.

Lokomotiv Kuban: Nick Calathes 15, Maxim Grigoryev 12
Zalgiris: Rimantas Kaukenas 14, Tremmell Darden 13

NKL Round 2 results and stats - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Regular Season in NKL.

Zalgiris-Sabonio - Dzukija 80-89

Dzukija led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Dzukija had a 35-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. Forward Povilas Sakinis (199-80) notched 24 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Tauras Skripkauskas (196-86, college: Charleston) supported him with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Four Dzukija players scored in double figures. Even 17 points by guard Lukas Lekavicius (180-94) did not help to save the game for Zalgiris-Sabonio. Forward Marius Grigonis (198-94) added 14 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts.

Top scorers:
Dzukija: P.Sakinis 24+8reb+2ast, T.Skripkauskas 23+8reb+2ast, G.Kurtinaitis 12+5reb+1ast, C.Trybanski 11+11reb+1ast, M.Reminas 9+5reb+2ast, B.Harrison 8+4reb+8ast
Zalgiris-Sabonio: L.Lekavicius 17+4reb+3ast, M.Grigonis 14+6reb+2ast, A.Gudaitis 12+9reb, N.Barauskas 10+1reb, Z.Skucas 8+3reb+1ast, P.Sorokas 7+5reb+1ast

Statyba - Zanavykas 71-85

The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 47-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Zanavykas dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Statyba's 34 and made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. Zanavykas forced 21 Statyba turnovers and outrebounded them 38-27 including 24 on the defensive glass. Guard Edgaras Stanionis (193-88) had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and center Vilius Sumskis (213-84, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Zanavykas players scored in double figures. Forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) responded with 19 points and 6 rebounds and center Vitalijus Luksa (206-86) scored 12 points and 9 rebounds.

Top scorers:
Zanavykas: E.Stanionis 24+10reb+2ast, V.Sumskis 16+8reb, E.Molosciakas 11+1reb+1ast, M.Uzupis 10+6reb+2ast, P.Parachomikas 9+3reb, A.Pelss 6+2reb+3ast
Statyba: D.Tarvydas 19+6reb+1ast, V.Luksa 12+9reb, M.Paliukenas 10+2reb+7ast, G.Marciukaitis 9+4reb, T.Rinkunas 9+3ast, K.Brusokas 4+4reb+1ast

Suduva-Mantinga - Perlas-MRU 90-79

Perlas-MRU was better in third quarter 23-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Suduva-Mantinga made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Perlas-MRU was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) scored 20 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) chipped in 20 points and 7 assists during the contest. Power forward Mantas Virbalas (203-88) responded with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 14 rebounds and point guard Zydrunas Kelys (188-87) scored 11 points, 7 assists and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Suduva-Mantinga: A.Birgelis 20+3reb+7ast, M.Kalvelis 20+7reb+3ast, A.Mineikis 16+5reb, Z.Kuklierius 14+3reb+3ast, A.Zibuda 10+2reb+4ast, A.Krivonis 8+2reb+1ast
Perlas-MRU: M.Virbalas 31+14reb+3ast, Z.Kelys 11+2reb+7ast, J.Elvikis 10+1reb, Z.Stankus 10+1ast, V.Buzas 6+5reb+1ast, A.Udras 4+6reb+1ast

Radviliskis - Silute 69-71

It looked good early as Radviliskis took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Silute had a 21-12 second period charge getting the lead and Radviliskis was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 69-71. Guard Evaldas Saulys (193-93) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Vitalis Pancerevas (185-87, college: Weatherford JC) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. point guard Julius Zurna (188-86) replied with 17 points and 6 assists and forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) added 21 points in the effort for Radviliskis.

Top scorers:
Silute: E.Saulys 19+5reb+1ast, V.Pancerevas 15+7reb+2ast, A.Virsilas 12+1reb+1ast, A.Kaubrys 8+6reb+2ast, R.Brencius 6+2reb+2ast, D.Lavonne Brents 6+3reb+5ast
Radviliskis: J.Jurgo 21+3reb, J.Zurna 17+3reb+6ast, V.Trepocka 10+6reb, E.Kaupaitis 10+6reb, L.Pipiras 5+3reb+1ast, D.Gricius 3+4reb+1ast

S.Marciulionio - Gargzdai 94-63

S.Marciulionio led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Gargzdai-Bremena's 36. They outrebounded Gargzdai-Bremena 51-21 including a 21-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. S.Marciulionio looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) scored 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Arvydas Gydra (206-89) chipped in 15 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. Four S.Marciulionio players scored in double figures. point guard Dominikas Matutis (180-91) responded with 13 points and 6 assists and forward Laurynas Lucinskas (201-93) scored 10 points. Gargzdai-Bremena's coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
S.Marciulionio: T.Rakauskas 23+7reb+5ast, O.Olisevicius 15+6reb+2ast, A.Gydra 15+9reb+5ast, M.Pociukonis 14+2reb+4ast, E.Zinevicius 13+7reb+2ast, D.Krestinin 8+19reb+1ast
Gargzdai: M.Martinkus 13+1reb+1ast, D.Matutis 13+1reb+6ast, L.Lucinskas 10+4reb+2ast, R.Zabita 8+1reb, D.Tarolis 7+6reb+1ast, M.Sekstins 5+1reb+2ast

Olimpas - Nafta Universitetas 93-65

Olimpas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Olimpas forced 22 Nafta Universitetas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Nafta Universitetas' players. Nafta Universitetas was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Mantas Kazonas (201-89) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Five Olimpas players scored in double figures. point guard Deividas Anuzis (181-92) responded with 15 points and 5 assists and swingman Tadas Mazelis (194-92) scored 16 points and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Olimpas: M.Kazonas 16+7reb+2ast, R.Venskus 15, T.Domarkas 15+2ast, I.Razutis 12+7reb+3ast, M.Norvaisas 12+6reb, O.Kaminskas 11+2reb+4ast
Nafta Universitetas: T.Mazelis 16+1reb+1ast, D.Anuzis 15+4reb+5ast, K.Timofejevas 12+4reb+1ast, V.Chodosovskis 8+3reb+1ast, V.Tarolis 6+3reb+2ast, G.Jankauskas 5+5reb

Birstono - Triobet 59-67

The best player for the winners was forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (203-90) who scored 16 points. Forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) chipped in 11 points and 9 rebounds. Paulius Kleiza (195-88) produced 15 points and 7 rebounds and forward Paulius Petrilevicius (201-91) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Triobet: H.Vorotnikovas 16+4reb, M.Linkevicius 11+9reb, P.Vaitiekunas 10+5reb+1ast, V.Kruzikas 8+2reb+1ast, A.Urbonas 6+6reb+3ast, T.Milinskas 6+3reb
Birstono: P.Kleiza 15+7reb+3ast, M.Lukminas 14+2reb+2ast, P.Petrilevicius 10+8reb+1ast, J.Kalnietis 6+4reb+1ast, D.Sabeckis 4+1reb+1ast, A.Oladimeji 4+6reb

Mazeikiai - Ezerunas-Karys 70-51

Ezerunas-Karys was better in third quarter 15-9. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guard Modestas Sidlauskas (193-85) scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Osvaldas Macernis (196-82) chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Four Mazeikiai players scored in double figures. Mazeikiai's coach Aloyzas Rudys used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Raimundas Ambrulaitis (199-82) responded with 7 points and 7 rebounds and guard Marius Kugauda (191-76) scored 10 points. Mazeikiai keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Delikatesas and S.Marciulionio.
Top scorers:
Mazeikiai: R.Giedraitis 17+4reb, M.Sidlauskas 15+5reb+5ast, A.Mikutis 11+5reb+2ast, O.Macernis 10+11reb+3ast, E.Aniulis 9+4reb+3ast, V.Pikalavicius 6+2reb+3ast
Ezerunas-Karys: M.Kugauda 10+2reb, J.Narusis 9+1ast, R.Jukonis 7+4reb+1ast, D.Navickas 7+4reb, R.Ambrulaitis 7+7reb+1ast, G.Kulbis 5+3reb

Delikatesas - Meresta 77-75

Meresta cut a 21-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. They outrebounded Meresta 40-26 including a 19-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. 27 personal fouls committed by Meresta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Swingman Mantas Pukinskas (198-89) had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Paulius Klemas (186-91) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Guard Tomas Gaidamavicius (191-82) responded with 17 points and 4 assists and guard Mantas Kadzevicius (194-91) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds.

Top scorers:
Delikatesas: M.Pukinskas 35+10reb, P.Klemas 15+9reb+3ast, A.Kvedaravicius 10+5reb+6ast, A.Montrimavicius 6+3reb+2ast, D.Girdvila 6+3reb, E.Vaupsas 4+3reb
Meresta: T.Gaidamavicius 17+4reb+4ast, M.Kadzevicius 14+5reb, A.Povilaitis 11+2reb, D.Keburys 9+4reb+1ast, L.Radavicius 9+3reb+2ast, I.Vaitkus 6+4reb

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MALTA

Preview 2012-2013 Men's Malta Basketball Season - by Steve Dolan

The Malta Basketball Association will kick off the 2012 Men's St. James Hospital Preseason Tournament in just a short time today. The 2012-2013 season looks to be one that the fans of Malta and Europe will not want to miss. The St James Hospital Preseason Tournament will tip of October 6. 2012 at 0800am. This will give the fans in Malta the first chance to see their clubs new additions as well as give the fans a little insight on what to expect in the upcoming season from their favorite clubs.

Athleta- The 2011-2012 Malta League Champions are the favorites entering the 2012-2013 to win Malta League Championship once again. Atleta have signed the 5'9 22 year old Maltese Shooting Guard Shawn Pace from rival Loyola and also added 21 year oldd Bulgarian Mihail Aleksandrov . Athleta also retained their Star Serbian 6'9" Power Forward/ Center Marko Todorovic whom is one of the biggest forces within the paint in Malta. Athleta has retained some very good talent and added very good talent to make them one of the favorites to report at the champions but rumor has it they have lost Michael Naudi to retirement. Naudi to many has been consider the best Malta Player for the past decade.

Depiro- After a run to the title game last season after getting swept 0-3 by Athleta in the finals Depiro is on a mission in 2012-2013 season. Depiro has retained their core players with the addition of two players. Depiro added Etienne Bezzina 6'9" F/C from the defending champions Athleta to strengthen their inside. Depiro had to replace their import from last season Greg Hamlin whom signed in Israel for the 2012-2013 with the signing of their American Star Guard/Forward 6'6" 220 pound Shawn Morgan (Arkansas State NCAA 1) whom to many may be the difference in Depiro winning the title in 2012-2013 season. Morgan spent 2011 in Uruguay where is was named the MVP avg 21.4ppg 8.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg,1.0bpg, FGP: 55.7%, FT: 70.3% in 2012 Morgan played in Mexico where he continued to show he is one of the brightest stars out their waiting to be discovered by Europe where he avg 27.4ppg, 10.8rpg, 7.3apg ,2.4spg, .07bpg including a 52 point game. Morgan was named to the following teams in 2011-2012 Salten LIGA MVP-11 , Salten LIGA All-Star Team-11 ,LatinAmerica.com LiCoMuBa 1st Team-12, LatinAmerica.com LiCoMuBa Defensive 1st Team-12.

Luxol- has lost the services of a few of the their Maltese players from last season from reports. Luxol is said to have lost Lee Ross (Free Agent at the moment) and Antonine Costa whom moved to play with Qormi in the 2nd Division. Luxol went out an replaced Ron Belin with 6'6" 205 F Stephen Franklin out of University Texas San Antonio (NCAA 1). Shackelford is entering his first pro season and is said to be a player that can play in side or out but likes to shot the three ball.

Floriana- has been one of the most active teams within the league this summer, Floriana has made sevearl key signings from their rivals as well as a very nice American Power Forward. Floriana managed to sign Power Forward Dirk Schembri from the defending champions Athleta and Shooting Guard David Camilleri from Loyola. Floriana has also wrnt out and signed Hungarian Forward Gabor Szokreny as well 6'8" 245 pound American Forward Phillip Thomas (Portland St) whom will be entering his first professional season. Thomas finished his college basketball career in 2010-2011 season at Portland State where he avg 9.2ppg, 3.1rpg in 21min per game for the Vikings.

Siggiewi - have added forward lee grech and shooting guard Clayton Agius who have moved from Siggiewi's 2nd division team to their 1st division team.

Loyola - have been weakened with the departures of Shawn Pace and David Camilleri and to date they still haven't registered any new signings. They should be having an American on trial for this tournament

Preview 2012-2013 Men's Malta Basketball Season - by Steve Dolan

The Malta Basketball Association will kick off the 2012 Men's St. James Hospital Preseason Tournament in just a short time today. The 2012-2013 season looks to be one that the fans of Malta and Europe will not want to miss. The St James Hospital Preseason Tournament will tip of October 6. 2012 at 0800am. This will give the fans in Malta the first chance to see their clubs new additions as well as give the fans a little insight on what to expect in the upcoming season from their favorite clubs.

Athleta- The 2011-2012 Malta League Champions are the favorites entering the 2012-2013 to win Malta League Championship once again. Atleta have signed the 5'9 22 year old Maltese Shooting Guard Shawn Pace from rival Loyola and also added 21 year oldd Bulgarian Mihail Aleksandrov . Athleta also retained their Star Serbian 6'9" Power Forward/ Center Marko Todorovic whom is one of the biggest forces within the paint in Malta. Athleta has retained some very good talent and added very good talent to make them one of the favorites to report at the champions but rumor has it they have lost Michael Naudi to retirement. Naudi to many has been consider the best Malta Player for the past decade.

Depiro- After a run to the title game last season after getting swept 0-3 by Athleta in the finals Depiro is on a mission in 2012-2013 season. Depiro has retained their core players with the addition of two players. Depiro added Etienne Bezzina 6'9" F/C from the defending champions Athleta to strengthen their inside. Depiro had to replace their import from last season Greg Hamlin whom signed in Israel for the 2012-2013 with the signing of their American Star Guard/Forward 6'6" 220 pound Shawn Morgan (Arkansas State NCAA 1) whom to many may be the difference in Depiro winning the title in 2012-2013 season. Morgan spent 2011 in Uruguay where is was named the MVP avg 21.4ppg 8.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg,1.0bpg, FGP: 55.7%, FT: 70.3% in 2012 Morgan played in Mexico where he continued to show he is one of the brightest stars out their waiting to be discovered by Europe where he avg 27.4ppg, 10.8rpg, 7.3apg ,2.4spg, .07bpg including a 52 point game. Morgan was named to the following teams in 2011-2012 Salten LIGA MVP-11 , Salten LIGA All-Star Team-11 ,LatinAmerica.com LiCoMuBa 1st Team-12, LatinAmerica.com LiCoMuBa Defensive 1st Team-12.

Luxol- has lost the services of a few of the their Maltese players from last season from reports. Luxol is said to have lost Lee Ross (Free Agent at the moment) and Antonine Costa whom moved to play with Qormi in the 2nd Division. Luxol went out an replaced Ron Belin with 6'6" 205 F Stephen Franklin out of University Texas San Antonio (NCAA 1). Franklin is entering his first pro season and is said to be a player that can play in side or out but likes to shot the three ball.

Floriana- has been one of the most active teams within the league this summer, Floriana has made sevearl key signings from their rivals as well as a very nice American Power Forward. Floriana managed to sign Power Forward Dirk Schembri from the defending champions Athleta and Shooting Guard David Camilleri from Loyola. Floriana has also wrnt out and signed Hungarian Forward Gabor Szokreny as well 6'8" 245 pound American Forward Phillip Thomas (Portland St) whom will be entering his first professional season. Thomas finished his college basketball career in 2010-2011 season at Portland State where he avg 9.2ppg, 3.1rpg in 21min per game for the Vikings.

Siggiewi - have added forward lee grech and shooting guard Clayton Agius who have moved from Siggiewi's 2nd division team to their 1st division team.

Loyola - have been weakened with the departures of Shawn Pace and David Camilleri and to date they still haven't registered any new signings. They should be having an American on trial for this tournament

AZ Electronics Athleta open season with victory in St James SuperCup - by Eurobasket News

Athleta - BUPA Luxol 67:56

Athleta victoriously opened the new season. They clinched the first trophy of the season. Athleta overcame BUPA Luxol to celebrate St James SuperCup. The teams clashed at the University Sports Hall, Tal-Qroqq. Luxol surged ahead in the first half. Led by Steve Shackelford Luxol posted a 32:30 lead after twenty minutes of action. But Athleta found the way to turn things around in the second half. They stepped on the gas in the fourth quarter and snatched a difficult win at the end. David Bugeja (180-SG-92) stepped up with 17 points to lead the winners. Marko Todorovic (204-F/C-85) accounted for 16 points for Athleta.

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MEXICO

Ofoegbu's 30-point game gives him LNBP Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

27-year old forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-F-85, agency: Paris Global Sports) had a very impressive game in the last round for second-ranked Toros and receives a Latinbasket.com LNBP Player of the Week award for round 10.
He had the game-high 30 points adding five rebounds and two assists for Toros in his team's victory, helping them to beat Pioneros (#9, 5-5) in overtime 107-96. Toros is placed at 2nd position in Mexican LNBP. They are still close to the very top. Toros would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 8-1 record. In the team's last game Ofoegbu had a remarkable 72.7% from 2-point range. He turned to be Toros' top player in his first season with the team. Ike Ofoegbu averages this season 12.3ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Brody Angley (180-PG-86, agency: JEMsports). He is naturalized American guard in his first season at Toros. In the last game Angley recorded impressive 28 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists. Of course Toros cruised to a 107-96 overtime win over the lower-ranked Pioneros (#9, 5-5). This victory allowed Toros to move up to second position in the standings. His team lost just one game this season, while they won 8 matches. Angley is a newcomer at Toros and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third place about best performers goes to center John Gardiner (203-C-83) of Gigantes (#15). Gardiner scored 23 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Gigantes, leading his team to a 102-99 win against slightly higher-ranked Guerreros (#13, 2-8). Gigantes can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-9 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Gardiner he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Gardiner has individually a great season in Mexico. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.0rpg (4th best). He also has 1.1bpg and FGP: 59.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Babacar Camara (211-C-81) of Lechugueros - 23 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Carl Elliott (193-G-83) of Soles - 27 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Eugene Phelps (198-F) of Abejas - 29 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Travis Gabbidon (201-F) of Guerreros - 31 points and 5 rebounds
8. Kentrell Gransberry (206-C-85) of Soles - 20 points and 11 rebounds
9. DeAngelo Riley (206-C/F-88) of Corr.Victoria - 17 points, 13 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)

LNBP Round 10 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Pioneros (#8) forced the game against Toros (#3) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 96-107 on Friday night. Worth to mention a great performance of Brody Angley who helped to win the game recording 28 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals. Pioneros' coach Josep Claros rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Toros have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Pioneros at the other side dropped to the ninth position with five games lost. Toros will face Soles (#6) in Mexicali in the next round. Pioneros will play on the road against Fuerza Regia in Monterrey and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games in round 10 were not that significant. Guerreros were beaten by Gigantes on the road 102-99. Osos won against Gansos on its own court 87-82. Abejas unfortunately lost to Huracanes in Tampico 91-94. Fuerza Regia recorded a loss to Soles at home 73-88. Halc.Rojos defeated Panteras on the opponent's court 84-83. Barreteros were beaten by Halc.Xalapa in a home game 87-105.
The most impressive performance of 10th round was 30 points and 5 rebounds by Ike Ofoegbu of Toros.

Gigantes - Guerreros 102-99

There was a small surprise when sixteenth ranked Gigantes (1-9) edged at home 13th ranked Guerreros (2-8) 102-99 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 3 points. Worth to mention a great performance of British V.Islands-Vincentian center John Gardiner (203-83, college: Sam Houston St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 23 points and 12 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). American guard Sam Liggins (178, college: Alders.-Broad.) contributed with 22 points for the winners. American forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) replied with 31 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import point guard Michael Hunter (178, college: Cal-Irvine) added 26 points in the effort for Guerreros. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Guerreros' coach Marcelo Elusich tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Gigantes left bottom position moving up to fifteenth place. It was Guerreros' fourth loss in a row. Guerreros at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keep the thirteenth position with eight games lost. Gigantes will face bottom-ranked Gansos (#16) in the next round.
Top scorers:
Guerreros: T.Gabbidon 31+5reb+1ast, M.Hunter 26+3reb+1ast, C.Lee 16+8reb, G.Burris 12+2reb+1ast, A.Alamo 5+6reb, F.Calixto 4+3reb
Gigantes: J.Gardiner 23+12reb+2ast, S.Liggins 22+1reb+3ast, J.RUFUS 20+11reb, A.Morris 18+1reb+4ast, J.Avalos 12+4reb+4ast, Z.Alvidrez 4+3reb

Osos - Gansos 87-82

The game between closely ranked teams ended with bottom-ranked Gansos' (0-10) road loss to fourteenth ranked Osos (2-8) 82-87 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 25-18 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Gansos were plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Keith Gayden (202-83, college: Duquesne) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 rebounds. The other American import guard Marlyn Bryant (193-82, college: S.Florida) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Five Osos players scored in double figures. American swingman Royce Gaye (193-88, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and Jorge Perez (-85) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Gansos. Gansos' coach Luis Andres Garcia rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Osos moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Guerreros. Gansos at the other side, also newcomer in the league, still closes the standings with ten games lost. Osos will face Guerreros (#13) in the next round. Gansos will play against Gigantes and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Gansos: R.Gaye 23+11reb+4ast, J.Perez 14+5reb+3ast, A.Perez 11+4reb, W.Bohthwright 10+12reb, C.Duran 9+2reb, E.Garcia 6+5reb+1ast
Osos: K.Gayden 25+7reb+1ast, E.Zuniga 16+3reb+2ast, M.Bryant 15+8reb+1ast, S.Bowie 14+5reb+1ast, M.Helton 10+4reb+5ast, J.Camacho 3+3reb

Huracanes - Abejas 94-91

There was a small surprise when seventh ranked Huracanes (6-2) edged 5th ranked Abejas (6-4) in Tampico 94-91 on Thursday. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Abejas were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 7 rebounds. The other American import swingman Anthony Johnson (197-79, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 20 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Eugene Phelps (198, college: Long Beach St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 11 rebounds and American-Jamaican forward McHugh Mattis (198-84, college: S.Florida) added 15 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Abejas. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Abejas' coach Daniel Jaule tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Huracanes have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Abejas at the other side dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Huracanes will have a break next round. Abejas will play against Correcaminos (#8) in Ciudad Victoria and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Abejas: E.Phelps 29+11reb+2ast, S.Pettigrew 16+3reb+2ast, M.Mattis 15+12reb, V.Buelna 11+2reb+3ast, L.Morinia 9+1reb+3ast, A.Sandoval 5+1reb+1ast
Huracanes: M.Morrison 23+7reb+3ast, A.Johnson 20+7reb+3ast, M.Pilgrim 17+1reb+1ast, R.Zamora 10+3reb+3ast, O.Quintero 10+4reb+7ast, M.Ayala 8+8reb+1ast

Toros - Pioneros 107-96 OT

Pioneros (#8) forced the game against Toros (#3) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 96-107 on Friday night. The hosts were tied at the half and again at the end of regular time. But they managed to win overtime period 8-8. Toros had a 33-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Pioneros were plagued by 36 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of international point guard Brody Angley (180-86, college: Santa Clara, agency: JEMsports) who helped to win the game recording 28 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals. American-Nigerian forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-85, college: SMU, agency: Paris Global Sports) contributed with 30 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Forrest Fisher (193-80) replied with 26 points and Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point) added 18 points and 7 assists in the effort for Pioneros. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Pioneros' coach Josep Claros rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Toros have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Pioneros at the other side dropped to the ninth position with five games lost. Toros will face Soles (#6) in Mexicali in the next round. Pioneros will play on the road against Fuerza Regia in Monterrey and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: F.Fisher 26+4reb, J.Smith 19+8reb+1ast, J.Harris 18+6reb+3ast, A.Scott 18+3reb+7ast, H.Llamas 8+2reb, C.Turley 4+1ast
Toros: I.Ofoegbu 30+5reb+2ast, B.Angley 28+5reb+9ast, L.Ellis Vasquez 17+5reb, A.Henning 10+3reb+5ast, R.Rougeau 8+7reb+3ast, Q.Gonzalez 7+3reb

Fuerza Regia - Soles 73-88

Not a big story in a game when 11th ranked Fuerza Regia (4-5) lost to ninth ranked Soles (6-4) in Monterrey 73-88 on Friday. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 15 points. It was a very good performance for American guard Carl Elliott (193-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) who helped to win the game recording 27 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. The other American import center Kentrell Gransberry (206-85, college: S.Florida) contributed with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four Soles players scored in double figures. Center Lance Allred (211-81, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) replied with a double-double by scoring 11 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and American point guard Gregory Grays (185-79, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) added 15 points in the effort for Fuerza Regia. Soles have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Corr.Victoria and Abejas. Loser Fuerza Regia keeps the eleventh position with five games lost. Soles will face league's second-placed Toros in Nuevo Laredo in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fuerza Regia will play at home against Pioneros (#9) in Cancun and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fuerza Regia: W.EFEJUKU ROSE 17+3reb+3ast, G.Grays 15+2reb+1ast, L.Allred 11+12reb+4ast, M.Strobbe 8, E.Hicks 8+6reb, G.Giron 5+5reb+2ast
Soles: C.Elliott 27+7reb+7ast, K.Gransberry 20+11reb+1ast, A.Franklin 13+4reb+1ast, R.Martinez 11+8reb+2ast, J.Luis Bucio 7+2reb+1ast, J.Griffin 5+3reb+1ast

Corr.Victoria - Lechugueros 90-86 OT

Top scorers:
Lechugueros: B.Camara 23+13reb+2ast, J.Penny 23+8reb+2ast, A.Sanchez 12+1reb, L.Pulido 8+8reb+5ast, E.Martin 7+3reb, E.Cuen 5+7reb
Corr.Victoria: R.Alexander 29+5reb+1ast, O.McCullough 22+10reb, D.Riley 17+13reb+5ast, B.Heredia 12+1reb+3ast, A.Olivas 4+2reb+1ast, J.Sanchez 2+1reb

Panteras - Halc.Rojos 83-84

Everything could happen in Aguascalientes at the game between two tied teams. Both third ranked Halcones Rojos and one of their biggest challengers Panteras had identical 7-2 record. But Panteras were not able to use a home court advantage and were edged by the opponent from Veracruz 84-83 on Thursday night. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 23-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Halcones Rojos made 27-of-34 free shots (79.4 percent) during the game. Strangely Panteras outrebounded Halcones Rojos 37-25 including 24 on the defensive glass. Panteras were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for Spanish center Ruben Ruiz (208-76) who helped to win the game recording 25 points. The former international forward Noe Alonzo (200-83, college: Grand Canyon) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Four Halcones Rojos players scored in double figures. American power forward Lee Nailon (205-75, college: TCU) replied with 19 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his seven free throws) and Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (179-83) added 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Panteras. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Halcones Rojos have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 8-2 record behind leader Halc.Xalapa. Loser Panteras keep the fourth place with three games lost. Halcones Rojos will face Barreteros (#10) in Zacatecas in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Panteras will play at home against the league's leader Halcones UV Xalapa (#1).
Top scorers:
Panteras: R.Melendez 22+6reb+4ast, L.Nailon 19+9reb+5ast, F.Verdugo 18+3reb+2ast, K.Malpica 9+6reb+5ast, J.Alvarez 6+2reb+1ast, J.Alfredo Casillas 3+2reb
Halc.Rojos: R.Ruiz 25+3reb+2ast, N.Alonzo 17+4reb+1ast, L.Bethelmy 14+3reb, F.Cruz 13+2reb+1ast, M.Mitchell 8+1reb+2ast, J.Aubry 4+4reb

Barreteros - Halc.Xalapa 87-105

There was no surprise when 9th ranked Barreteros (5-5) lost to first ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (9-1) in Zacatecas 87-105 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 105-87. Halcones UV Xalapa made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. It was a very good performance for American guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) who helped to win the game recording 22 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Venezuelan point guard Gregory Vargas (180-86) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 14 assists for the winners. Halcones UV Xalapa's coach Angel Gonzalez used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) replied with 25 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Lamont Sumpter (183-86, college: McMurry) added 19 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists in the effort for Barreteros. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Halcones UV Xalapa have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-1 record. Loser Barreteros keep the ninth place with five games lost. Halcones UV Xalapa will face Panteras (#4) in Aguascalientes in the next round. Barreteros will play at home against Halcones Rojos (#3) in Veracruz.
Top scorers:
Barreteros: J.Habel 25+9reb+3ast, L.Sumpter 19+5reb+9ast, R.Loera Almanza 17+4reb+2ast, J.Horton 10+1reb+6ast, R.McKoy 9+9reb+1ast, C.Silva 4+2reb
Halc.Xalapa: L.Hickerson 22+7reb+5ast, G.Vargas 14+4reb+14ast, F.Harris 14+3reb, K.PEARSON 14+2reb, L.Mata 12+13reb, A.Parada 9+5reb

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MONTENEGRO

Interview with Aaron Mitchell, the point guard of Centar Bijelo Polje and newcomer in Erste Basketball League - by Darko Pekic

Aaron Mitchell (187-G, college: Longwood), US point guard who has recently joined the newly promoted Centar from Bijelo Polje answered on eurobasket.com's questions about his goals and first overseas experience in Bijelo Polje. Take a look...

Hello Aaron, tell us more about your first steps in the basketball world? Have you always dreams to be a professional basketball player?

Yes that has been one of my lifetime goals to become a professional player since a child.

You are from Virginia, a state in the US not well known for its basketball, but mostly known for its football. Do you feel that basketball players from Virginia are somehow overlooked?

In some way you can say we are but when you really look at we have a lot of players playing professional basketball. I have many friends that I played with or grew up playing professional like Jay Threatt (180-G-89, college: Delaware St.), Brandon Rozzell (187-G-89, college: VCU), Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) to just name a few. But I think we are starting to get recognize more now.

You played college basketball at Longwood (NCAA1). Was there any specific reason to choose Longwood?

Yes there was I had went to FL for JUCO basketball my 1st two years. So my family really couldnt see me play. So being back home was a plus. Also Longwood really showed they wanted me on my visit.

After a solid college career ( Senior season stats: 13.4ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.8apg and 1.0spg ) you appeared in a Pro Camp in Las Vegas but you did not get a deal to go abroad last season. How did you feel at that moment? You felt you needed to work more on your game and keep imporoving or you were just disappointed?

I was really disappointed but that motivated me to really work hard and keep working towards getting overseas! Everybody has there own path of getting overseas mine just took a little longer.

Last season you played for Richmond Elite (ABA), a team which had many NCAA 1 and 2 players on its roster and was coached by George Lancaster who is a coaching legend in Virginia. Did this experience help you get mentally and physically stronger and adjust to the requirements of pro basketball?

ABA was a big help like it got me adjusted to the speed and physical play of pro ball. Learning from Coach Lancaster was great like he really teaches you the fundamentals demands respect from his players. He we had a great season we finished #11 in the nation.

In September you joined Centar Bijelo Polje, the newcomer in Division I (Montenegro). Before you left the States, did you have any idea about the level of basketball in this small Mediteranian country or you just wanted to play and did not care much about other things?

No I didn't have any clue about the talent level here. I just wanted to get my foot in the door so I could have chance at a pro career overseas!

In Centar you will have an important role as starting point guard. Could you tell now the fans what they can expect from you this year?

Expect for me to come here and play my hardest and do everything possible to help the team win games. It's all about getting wins for the team and coach!

You will not be the only American in the team as there is already Rickey Young (204-F/C-90, college: W.Virginia Tech), who played last year in Montenegro and got important experience. Is Rickey there for you to help you when the help is needed?

Yes, Rickey has made the transition a lot smother for me here. He some I can ask questions about certain things on the court that will help. Not only has he been a big help on the court but off the court too. I would probably still be lost out here now haha.

What are your first impressions about the town and the club? How far can go this team?

The town is very friendly and everybody knows each other like one big family here. The people have been nothing but friendly to me. We are young group of guys so we can go as far as our energy on defense takes us. It's start with the defense. We have to beat teams with our quickness and defense.

Thank you Aaron for this interview. Eurobasket.com will keep following your games and the games of your team. Good luck in the new season!

Thank you for taking your time to interview me.

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NBA

NORWAY

Standings - 1Div.

1Div. Standings

1. Miners		1-0
2. Persbraaten		1-0
3. Sverresborg		0-0
4. Varden		0-0
5. Fyllingen BBK		0-1
6. Hoybraten		0-1

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 29: Fyllingen BBK - Miners 62-77
Oct. 6: Hoybraten - Persbraaten 53-93

Regular Season: Round 2

Oct. 13: Hoybraten - Varden
Oct. 13: Fyllingen BBK - Sverresborg
Oct. 14: Fyllingen BBK - Sverresborg
Oct. 14: Miners - Varden

BLNO Round 5: Baerum Basket edges Froya Basket by two points - by Eurobasket News

It's still too early stage of the Regular Season in BLNO, but even now we can clearly see the differece between stronger teams and outsiders.

The most exciting game of round 5 in the BLNO took place in Bekkestua. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Froya Basket (2-3) to sixth ranked Baerum Basket (2-2) 83-81 in the game for the fourth place. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Froya Basket won third quarter 15-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Froya Basket 40-26 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American forward Keith Thompson (197-90, college: Utah Valley) who had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds. Uruguayan-German guard Phillip Holm (175-80) chipped in 19 points and 6 assists. Latvian point guard Reno Silavs (180-91) produced 21 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Baerum Basket moved-up to fourth place. Defending champion Froya Basket dropped to the fifth position with three games lost. Baerum Basket are looking forward to face higher ranked Tromso (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Froya Basket will play against Asker Aliens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Oslo was also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Gimle BBK (3-2) played at the court of 5th ranked Ammerud Bskt (1-3). Gimle BBK did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 78-59. American forward Delano Thomas (203-81, college: Shawnee St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Stian Enge contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Ronald Timus (197-84, college: Morgan St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds for Ammerud Bskt. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Gimle BBK moved-up to second place. Ammerud Bskt at the other side dropped to the sixth position with three games lost. Gimle BBK will play against league's leader Centrum in Oslo in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ammerud Bskt will have a break next round.

Baerum Basket - Froya Basket 83-81

The most exciting game of round 5 in the BLNO took place in Bekkestua. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Froya Basket (2-3) to sixth ranked Baerum Basket (2-2) 83-81 in the game for the fourth place. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Froya Basket won third quarter 15-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Froya Basket 40-26 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American forward Keith Thompson (197-90, college: Utah Valley) who had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds. Uruguayan-German guard Phillip Holm (175-80) chipped in 19 points and 6 assists. Latvian point guard Reno Silavs (180-91) produced 21 points and 5 rebounds and Latvian guard Edmunds Gabrans (190-79) added 19 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Five Froya Basket players scored in double figures. Baerum Basket moved-up to fourth place. Defending champion Froya Basket dropped to the fifth position with three games lost. Baerum Basket are looking forward to face higher ranked Tromso (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Froya Basket will play against Asker Aliens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Froya Basket: R.Silavs 21+5reb+1ast, E.Gabrans 19+2reb+4ast, H.Mostafa 13+5reb+4ast, M.Elsafadi 12+8reb+2ast, A.Nzeyimana 12+3reb+2ast, N.Blatancic 4+2reb+1ast
Baerum Basket: K.Thompson 35+18reb+1ast, P.Holm 19+1reb+6ast, L.Harto 12+5reb+2ast, R.Ferranti 7+11reb+5ast, T.Mjos 5+2reb+1ast, B.Andreassen 3

Ammerud Bskt - Gimle BBK 59-78

The game in Oslo was also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Gimle BBK (3-2) played at the court of 5th ranked Ammerud Bskt (1-3). Gimle BBK did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 78-59. The game was mostly controlled by Gimle BBK. Ammerud Bskt was better in third quarter 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Delano Thomas (203-81, college: Shawnee St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Guard Stian Enge (190-90) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Gimle BBK players scored in double figures. American swingman Ronald Timus (197-84, college: Morgan St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds and the former international guard Orji Okoroafor (187-80) added 8 points in the effort for Ammerud Bskt. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Gimle BBK moved-up to second place. Ammerud Bskt at the other side dropped to the sixth position with three games lost. Gimle BBK will play against league's leader Centrum in Oslo in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ammerud Bskt will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Ammerud Bskt: R.Timus 22+12reb+2ast, I.Adahada 10+3reb, O.Okoroafor 8+2reb+3ast, O.Egeland 7+1reb, B.Mariampillai 6+4reb+1ast, A.Haddad 4+1reb
Gimle BBK: S.Enge 16+5reb+1ast, E.Fjaerestad 15+4reb+1ast, D.Thomas 15+8reb+7ast, A.Stien 12+2reb+1ast, D.Hammer 8+3reb, F.Gnatt 7+4reb+1ast

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PORTUGAL

Oliveirense and Maia Basket enter Proliga Antonio Pratas Trophy Final - by Eurobasket News

Oliveirense and Maia Basket will clash in the Proliga Antonio Pratas Trophy Final.
Oliveirense overcame SL Benfica B 68:51 today. Renato Azevedo (186-G/F-91) stepped up with 20 points and 7 rebounds to pace the winners. Oliveirense posted a 34:26 halftime lead. They boosted the gap to 11 points at the final intermission and never looked back en route to the victory. Nuno Cortez (205-C-82) delivered 11 points, while Joao Reveles (187-G-80) and Joao Abreu (179-G-83) added 10 points each in the win. Candido Sa (202-F/C-92) answered with 15 points and 13 boards for Benfica B. Andre Miguens (184-SF-94) posted 13 points in the loss.
Maia Basket prevailed against Electrico 84:70. Paulo Diamantino (203-C-85) stepped up with 27 points and 12 rebounds to lead the charge. Electrico enjoyed a 38:33 halftime lead. However Maia Basket went on a 28:13 run in the third period to surge ahead. They maintained the lead throughout the fourth frame and sealed the win at the end. Pedro Catarino (184-G-90) added 17 points for Maia Basket. Tiago Pinto (183-G-88) answered with 19 points for Electrico. Paulo Raminhos (188-F-89) and Pedro Afonso (198-F-83) had 14 points each in defeat.

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RUSSIA

SLOVAKIA

Extraliga Round 1: Results and Stats from the opening day - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in Extraliga just started.

B.Bystrica - Levice 85-94

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of SKP Banska Bystrica (0-1) at the home court. Hosts were defeated by Levice (1-0) 94-85. The guests were already 11 points ahead at halftime and as many as 16 after three quarters before a 23-16 last quarter charge of SKP Banska Bystrica cut the lead to 94-85 at the end of the game. Levice forced 20 SKP Banska Bystrica turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Willie Kemp (188-87, college: Memphis) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Canadian forward Troy Gottseling (203-87) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Levice's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The former international power forward Peter Dorazil (199-89) answered with 14 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and Croatian forward Sasa Jankovic (204-84) added 14 points in the effort for SKP Banska Bystrica. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Levice will play against Svit at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SKP Banska Bystrica will play against Nitra in Nitra to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Levice: T.Gottseling 18+7reb+3ast, W.Kemp 16+9reb+6ast, S.Nuhanovic 15+3reb+1ast, T.Mrvis 14+3reb+3ast, J.Simmons 11+5reb, M.Sykora 8+2reb+1ast
B.Bystrica: P.Dorazil 14+6reb+1ast, S.Jankovic 14+4reb+2ast, I.Salamun 13+2reb+1ast, S.Smajlagic 13+5reb+1ast, R.Korner 12+7reb+1ast, B.Koczkas 8+3reb+1ast

Svit - Nova Ves 65-91

An interesting game where Nova Ves crushed host Svit with 26-point difference 91-65 on Saturday evening. The game without a history. Nova Ves led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. International forward Stanislav Baldovsky (192-89) stepped up and scored 26 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and Serbian power forward Aco Mandic (204-84) chipped in 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Nova Ves players scored in double figures. Nova Ves' coach felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side American forward Kenneth Henderson (201-82, college: Texas Arlington) responded with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and Serbian Marko Puzic (198-85) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds. Nova Ves will meet at home Inter Bratislava in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Svit will play against Levice.
Top scorers:
Nova Ves: S.Baldovsky 26+6reb, A.Mandic 17+10reb+4ast, M.Stec 12+1reb+2ast, V.Hovanak 11+9reb+2ast, O.Ulman 10+6reb, N.Evans 9+3reb+4ast
Svit: K.Henderson 16+7reb+4ast, M.Puzic 12+5reb+1ast, T.McNeal 10+7reb, N.Vladovic 8+8reb+1ast, J.Archie 7+6reb+4ast, J.Sherrod 5+1reb+1ast

Inter Bratislava - Komarno 100-80

Inter Bratislava smashed Komarno at home 100-80. Inter Bratislava led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 24-of-26 free shots (92.3 percent) during the game. Inter Bratislava had a 28-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Inter Bratislava especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. 25 personal fouls committed by Komarno helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Montenegrin guard Goran Bulatovic (184-88) fired 29 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. The former international power forward Radoslav Rancik (207-79, college: St.Cloud St., agency: Beo Basket) chipped in a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. Inter Bratislava's coach Oliver Vidin used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Kevin Thompson (205-89, college: Morgan St.) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds and the other American import forward Nasir Robinson (195-89, college: Pittsburgh, agency: TSS Management) added 21 points respectively for lost side. Four Inter Bratislava and five Komarno players scored in double figures. Komarno will play next round against Handlova trying to get back on the winning streak. Inter Bratislava will try to continue on its current victory against Nova Ves on the road.
Top scorers:
Inter Bratislava: G.Bulatovic 29+5reb+7ast, R.Rancik 21+10reb+1ast, J.Graham 15+7reb+1ast, B.Devrnja 14+4reb+1ast, R.Urland 6+4reb+1ast, H.Rahman 4+3reb
Komarno: N.Robinson 21+4reb+1ast, K.Thompson 20+11reb+2ast, M.Bilik 14+5reb+1ast, C.Lowe 11+3reb+2ast, J.Kratochvil 10+4reb+5ast, L.Stojanov 2+1reb+1ast

Nitra - Prievidza 87-63

Nitra used a home court advantage and crushed the opponent from Prievidza 87-63 on Saturday night. The game was mostly controlled by Nitra. Prievidza managed to win second period 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nitra forced 24 Prievidza turnovers. Center Juraj Hasan (202-89) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and American point guard Deremy Geiger (180-90, college: Idaho) chipped in 19 points and 4 assists. Four Nitra players scored in double figures. At the losing side American point guard Paul Gause (180-86, college: Seton Hall, agency: I.D.S. Law) responded with 15 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import forward Joseph Harris (196-87, college: Co.Carolina) scored 12 points and 6 rebounds. Prievidza's coach Jamie Andrisevic gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Nitra will meet at home SKP Banska Bystrica in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Prievidza will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Nitra: D.Geiger 19+1reb+4ast, M.Kovacevic 13+4reb+1ast, A.McClain 13+4reb, J.Hasan 13+11reb+2ast, J.Cadot 10+4reb+2ast, V.Kosa 9+2ast
Prievidza: P.Gause 15+7reb+1ast, J.Harris 12+6reb+1ast, G.Boon 11+2reb, M.Jass 8+1reb, M.Ziak 5+2reb+2ast, M.Batka 4+3reb+1ast

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SWEDEN

Basketligan: Round 1 review - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in Basketligan just started. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the first round.

Sundsvall - Uppsala 74-80
The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Uppsala Basket made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Sundsvall Dragons turnovers. The former international Johan Jeansson (198-85) stepped up and scored 20 points for the winners and Australian point guard Rhys Carter (190-84) chipped in 15 points and 4 assists. Four Uppsala Basket players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Alex Wesby (198-80, college: Temple, agency: R.H.Consultancy) responded with 25 points and 9 rebounds and Icelandic forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82) scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists.
Top scorers:
Sundsvall: A.Wesby 25+9reb+3ast, M.Cuffee 23+4reb, H.Baeringsson 14+8reb+6ast, W.Gutenius 6+4reb+1ast, E.Salon 4+2reb+4ast, A.Schreiber 2+5reb+1ast
Uppsala: J.Jeansson 20+3reb, R.Carter 15+4reb+4ast, S.Grundberg 12+6reb, O.Lindell 11+4reb+1ast, R.Eriksson 8+5reb+2ast, M.Nakos 7+4reb+2ast

Eagles - Eco Orebro 96-65
The game was mostly controlled by White Eagles. Eco Orebro was better in second period 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. White Eagles dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Eco Orebro's 26. White Eagles forced 21 Eco Orebro turnovers and outrebounded them 31-18 including a 24-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. White Eagles players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 6 passes made by Eco Orebro's players. 24 personal fouls committed by Eco Orebro helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist, agency: Three Eye Sports) fired 21 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Joseph Taylor (205-85, college: Wyoming) chipped in 12 points and 9 rebounds. White Eagles' coach Ronnie Christensen felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Spanish point guard Mario Diez (188-82) produced 13 points and 4 assists and guard Brandon Barton (192-88) added 17 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Eco Orebro: B.Barton 17+1reb+1ast, M.Diez 13+2reb+4ast, T.Withworth 10+1reb+1ast, D.Santee 10+5reb, F.Urli 8, C.Grace 4+6reb
Eagles: O.Krayem 21+5reb+6ast, D.Kitanovic 17+3reb+1ast, A.Micovic 13+1reb+2ast, J.Taylor 12+9reb+2ast, S.Inan 12+3reb+1ast, N.Stefanovic 10+2reb+4ast

Jamtland - Nassjo 75-49
The game without a history. KFUM Jamtland led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. KFUM Jamtland outrebounded Nassjo 49-37 including 36 on the defensive glass. It was a very good performance for American guard Darryl Hudson (195-85, college: Howard, agency: Strategic Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists. Croatian forward Drazen Klaric (204-80) contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four KFUM Jamtland players scored in double figures. Polish center Szymon Lukasiak (208-87, college: Jacksonville) answered with 13 points and 9 rebounds and American forward William Walker (200-87, college: Bethel, IN, agency: Warren Sports International) added 17 points in the effort for Nassjo.
Top scorers:
Nassjo: W.Walker 17+2reb+1ast, S.Lukasiak 13+9reb, T.Ruach 7+2reb+4ast, M.Liljeqvist 4+2reb, K.Palmqvist 3+1reb, K.Ternell 3+1reb
Jamtland: D.Hudson 18+16reb+5ast, D.Klaric 16+8reb+1ast, J.Ronstrom 14+8reb, L.Marolt 12+3reb, S.Hellgren 6+1reb+2ast, M.Fernandes 6+5reb

Sodertalje - Norrkoping 70-67
The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 44-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Bosnian forward Toni Bizaca (202-F-82) nailed 30 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side and American center Kenneth Simms (203-86, college: Cumberland, agency: JEMsports) accounted for 11 points and 11 rebounds. Latvian point guard Edgars Jeromanovs (186-86) came up with 17 points and 6 assists and Icelandic guard Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87, agency: I.D.S. Law) added 18 points respectively for Norrkoping Dolphins in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Norrkoping: P.Ermolinskij 18+2reb+2ast, E.Jeromanovs 17+2reb+6ast, J.Hughes 8+4reb, M.Ringstrom 8+4reb+1ast, R.Hanke 4+5reb, A.Saks 4+6reb
Sodertalje: T.Bizaca 30+8reb+3ast, K.Simms 11+11reb+1ast, D.Pita 5, A.Lindqvist 5+2reb, M.Joseph 4+2reb+3ast, T.Borg 4+1reb+1ast

Boras - 08 101-96
The hosts trailed by 11 points at the halftime before their 62-46 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Boras Basket made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. 27 personal fouls committed by 08 Stockholm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard James Miller (180-79, college: N.Carolina A&T, agency: Higher Vision Sports) who helped to win the game recording 37 points (!!!) and 6 assists (on 13-of-15 shooting from the field). The former international guard Henrik Carlsson (193-80) contributed with 24 points (made all of his eight free throws) for the winners. Turkish guard Erkan Inan (192-89) answered with 21 points and American forward Kodi Augustus (203-87, college: Mississippi St., agency: Two Points) added 19 points in the effort for 08 Stockholm.
Top scorers:
08: E.Inan 21+4reb+3ast, K.Augustus 19+4reb+2ast, N.Hedstrom 16+5reb+1ast, W.Beck 13+4reb+5ast, I.Brown 12+3reb+1ast, J.Blom 11+7reb+3ast
Boras: J.Miller 37+3reb+6ast, H.Carlsson 24+2reb+3ast, M.Palm 16+8reb+3ast, J.Thomas 12+10reb, C.McKnight 10+4reb+2ast, M.Goransson 2+2reb+1ast

LF Basket - Solna 79-82
The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 27-18 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. It was a very good performance for the former international point guard Mats Levin (189-77) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Greek center Stavros Toutziarakis (210-87, agency: FCM) contributed with 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American guard Henry Dugat (183-87, college: Baylor) answered with 14 points and 4 assists and American-German center Urule Igbavboa (203-87, college: Valparaiso) added 10 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for LF Basket.
Top scorers:
LF Basket: A.Person 17+1reb+2ast, M.Soskic 17+1reb+2ast, H.Dugat 14+4reb+4ast, U.Igbavboa 10+11reb, J.Akesson 9+2reb+1ast, E.Henderson 7+9reb
Solna: M.Levin 24+3reb+5ast, D.Johnson 13+7reb, S.Toutziarakis 12+9reb+1ast, K.Lewis 12+1reb+2ast, S.Smith 8+3reb+1ast, J.Nystrom 7+6reb+1ast

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TURKEY

Selcuk Universitesi adds Clark to their roster - by Eurobasket News (T)

Torku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (TB2L) added to their roster 24-year old American small forward Bill Clark (195-95kg-88, college: Duquesne). Clark moved there from BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral in French ProA where he spent pre-season. The last season he played for Fos Ouest (ProB). In 40 ProB games last year he recorded 13.5ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.6apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals.
Clark attended University of Duquesne until 2011 and it will be his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Fenerbahce Ulker upsets Boston Celtics with a 97-91 victory - by Pervin Elgin

17-time NBA Champion Boston Celtics visited Istanbul for their preseason opening game and were surprisingly defeated by Fenerbahce Ulker. Fener lead the biggest part of te game and managed to keep the advantage until the final buzzer 97-91. Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) was the top scorer for Ulker with 24 points, rising star Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) added 21.

After a series of mutuals baskets in the first period, Fenerbahce's Ilkan Karaman and Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) initiated a 11-2 run, taking to score to 20-10 for the home team. After that, Rajon Rondo (185-PG-86, college: Kentucky) and Jeff Green (206-F-86, college: Georgetown) stepped up for the Celtics, resulting in a 26-27 for the NBA-team.

In the beginning of the second quarter Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) hit two shots from downtown to take Fener back in the lead again. Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) made the most of Celtic turnovers and took the score to 43-37. Oguz Savas (212-C-87) converted yet another turnover to a basket to give Ulker a double digit lead at halftime: 55-45.

Jason Terry (188-PG-77, college: Arizona) was effective for the Celtics in the third period, but Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) prevented Boston from closing the gap, taking the score to 63-55 after five minutes in the quarter. Another big shot by Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) gave Fenerbahce a 79-72 lead at the end of the period.

The fourth period started with a basket by Boston's Jared Sullinger's, but Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) replied with a three pointer. Boston Celtic pushed to close the gap, but Bo McCalebb's (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans basket regained the 7-point advantage for Fenerbahce. Ulker's defence closed ranks, and another three point basket by Sato made an end to all Celtic hopes: 97-91.

Fenerbahce Ulker: Romain Sato 24, Bo McCalebb 21, Bojan Bogdanovic 11, Oguz Savas 10
Boston Celtics: Jeff Green 16, Jared Sullinger 16, Rajon Rondo 13, Brandon Bass 9

Turkish Cup Daily Wrap - by Efe Gorkem

Group A

Anadolu Efes:76 - Pnar Karyaka: 57

Serbian forward Dusko Savanovic (204-PF-83, agency: Beo Basket) scored 15 points alongside his six rebounds. Caner Topaloglu (199-F-85) was the only double-digit scorer for Pnar Karyaka.

Mersin Buyukehir Belediyesi: 76 - Royal Hal Gaziantep Buyukehir Belediyesi: 68
Mersin beat Gaziantep and finished the group at 3rd place. Gaziantep's Isaiah Swann (188-G-85, college: Florida St.) was the leading scorer with his 28 points. Ali Karadeniz (203-F-80, college: Arizona) scored 16 points for the winners.

Group B
Beikta: 67 - Hacettepe: 62
Beikta now has two wins in two games in Group B. Vladimir Dasic (208-PF-88) has a double double with 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Experienced center Huseyin Besok (212-C-75) had 13 points and 8 rebounds for Hacettepe.

Antalya Buyukehir Belediyesi: 72 - Aliaa Petkim: 67
Ron Lewis (193-G-84, college: Ohio St.) had 21 points and 5 rebounds for Antalya, who had a crucial win in Turkish Cup. Aliaa's Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) was the leading scorer for Aliaa. He scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Unfortunately, Torin Francis (210-C-83, college: Notre Dame)' 14 point-18 rebound performance wasn't enought for Aliaa.

Group C
Banvit: 83 - Turk Telekom: 69
Easy win for Banvit. Chuck Davis (191-G-83, college: Shippensburg) had 23 points-4 rebounds-3 assists in 25 minutes, while Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90) had a 14 point-5 rebound performance. Drago Pasalic had 21 points for loser side.

TED Kolejliler: 75 - Tofa: 59
Kirk Penney (196-G-80, agency: Duran International, college: Wisconsin) was again the leading scorer for Ankara side. He had 21 points for the win. Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) was the only double-digit scorer for Tofa. He had 11 points.

Ataman wants peace - by Efe Gorkem

Galatasaray Medical Park coach Ergin Ataman was happy after yesterday's win over arch-rivals Fenerbahe lker. However, he took his time to warn hooligans about their behaviours.

"Our fans threw some flammable items on the court. Moreover, fans sitting on the upper decks threw them to other fans who support the same team. At the end of the game, this time Fenerbahe fans started throwing things on the court. This is not sportsmanship. I don't want them to come to our games."

Ataman said there isn't any tension between players and coaches.

"We stayed at the same hotel with Fenerbahe for three days. We had the breakfast together and had no problems. If you come to watch the game, you have to behave accordingly. You can't act like this, it's a shame! I want everyone to obey the Sports Laws and I want serious punishments. In the future that would go worse. Before the game, I saw both teams' fans in the same arena and I had a hope. Hooligans are like 5-10 percent of the real fans. Please don't let them come our games."

Galatasaray beat Fenerbahe 74-69 in a Turkish Cup game.

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UKRAINE

Randy Culpepper's triple-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

American guard Randy Culpepper (182-G-89) had a very impressive game in the last round for Ferro-ZNTU, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 5.
The 23-year old player recorded a triple-double of 26 points addeding also 11 rebounds and 10 assists, while his team beat Kryvbasbasket (#9, 1-2) 90-81. Ferro-ZNTU is placed at 4th position in Ukrainian Superleague. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. But it's just the very beginning of the season and Ferro-ZNTU won both games without losing any. It's too early to say anything as the standings can be changed completely after next round. In the team's last game Culpepper had a remarkable five three-pointers out of 10 attempts. It's his second year at Ferro-ZNTU and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Randy Culpepper averages just after two games 22.5ppg, 7.0rpg and 9.0apg.

The second best player in last round's games was 34-year old American Justin Love (189-G-78) of BC Odessa. Love had a very good evening with 21 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. Bad luck as BC Odessa lost that game 77-82 to league's leader Budivelnyk (#3, 2-0). This loss caused BC Odessa to slide to the very bottom (14) position in the standings. 3 lost games are too many considering they did not win any game. Love is well-known at BC Odessa and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 14.7ppg (#4).

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard James Florence (185-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) of Kryvbasbasket (#9). Florence showcased his all-around game by recording 25 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the last round. Despite Florence's great performance Kryvbasbasket lost 81-90 to the league's current leader Ferro-ZNTU (#4, 2-0). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Kryvbasbasket not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 2 games, recording just one victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Florence could try to bring Kryvbasbasket's a little bit higher in the standings. Florence has individually a great season in Ukraine. After only 3 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.3ppg (best scorer) and assists with 5.3apg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Leo Lyons (206-F-87) of Budivelnyk - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Ryan Pearson (198-F-90) of Hoverla - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Kyndall Dykes (190-SG-87) of Hoverla - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Cameron Moore (208-F-90) of Ferro-ZNTU - 15 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Jeremy Chappell (191-G-87) of Ferro-ZNTU - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Dario Hunt (203-F-89) of BC Odessa - 11 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) of Budivelnyk - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists

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

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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Round Up Friday 05 Oct - by Paul Nilsen

Friday night's action in the BBL Championship saw the Newcastle Eagles maintain their 100% start to the season, while the London Lions picked up their first victory of the campaign to move themselves off the foot of the table.

The Eagles were made to work hard by the Manchester Giants but came away from Wright Robinson College with an 82-91 victory.

An impressive second quarter performance from the Eagles helped the visitors into an early advantage as they led 35-50 at the half, but the Giants worked hard in the second half to get themselves right back into the contest and provide a little bit of a scare on the current BBL Champions.

A combination of Joe Chapman (193-G-84, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: Marquette) and Charles Smith led the scoring for the Eagles with 20 points a-piece and meant the Eagles held onto top spot in the early weeks of the season.

In the other game of the night, the Lions secured their first victory of the season with a 95-91 victory over the Surrey Heat at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.

An impressive 27 point haul from Tayo Ogedengbe (198-F-87) was the stand-out performance for the home side, while Chavis Holmes bagged 24 points for the visitors in the defeat.

The Lions led for the vast majority of the game, but the game remained close throughout with both sides vying for the victory, the home side looking for their first and the visitors looking to maintain their strong start to the season, but it was the Lions who remained cool down the stretch and a pair of free-throws from Nuno Pedroso with seven seconds remaining was enough to hand the Lions the all-important victory.

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URUGUAY

Malvin won their 6th game - by Hector Lopez

Anthony Myles (208-F/C-82, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Xavier) netted 26 points and Alexander Galindo (200-F-85, college: FIU) added 15 points and grabbed 16 rebounds when Malvin defeated Defensor Sporting 90-85, after an overtime (74-74), for the Uruguayan League 6th round. It was the sixth winning in a row for Malvin, while Defensor is now 4-2. For Defensor Sporting, Walter Baxley (193-G-84, college: Mars Hill) netted 29 points and Jose Juan Bravo (202-C-86) added 11 and 5 rebounds. Other results:
Aguada 88 - Christopher Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy) 17 points 7 rebounds, Byron Allen (203-C-81, agency: SDJ Sports, college: Northwestern St.) 13 points 4 rebounds, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) 28 points.
Bohemios 79 - John Huggins (188-G-82, college: Amer.Internat.) 25 points 6 rebouinds, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 13 points 5 rebounds and Chas McFarland (213-C-86, college: Wake Forest) 3 points 5 rebounds
- - -
Union Atltica 81 - Emilio Taboada (191-F-82) 34 points 9 rebounds, Jon Rogers (204-C-84, college: Valdosta St.) 9 points 14 rebounds, Ryan Blankson (201-C-80, college: Loyola, IL) 6 points 14 rebounds
Sayago 65 - Terence Shellman (198-F-78) 10 points 13 rebounds 9 assists, Stanley Jones (208-C-86, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Francis Marion) 9 points 7 rebounds
- - -
The game Codon-Trouville was postponed.

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Women News

Standings

Group A
1. China		5-0
2. Japan		4-1
3. Taiwan		3-2
4. S.Korea		2-3
5. Thailand		1-4
6. Malaysia		0-5
Group B
1. India		5-0
2. Hong Kong		4-1
3. Kazakhstan		3-2
4. Singapore		2-3
5. Sri Lanka		1-4
6. Uzbekistan		0-5

Finals: Round 1

FINAL

Oct. 6: CHN - JPN 66-60

3-4 Place

Oct. 6: KOR - TAI 61-42

China defend title in Johor Bahru - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

China - Japan 66-60
China regained their U18 Asia Championship title. They defeated Japan in the remake of 2010 Final to clinch Gold once again. Yang LiWei (175-G-95) delivered 20 points to lead the winners. It was a close battle from the start. China eked out a 16:15 lead after ten minutes. Japan shifted the gear and surged ahead in the second quarter. They secured a 38:30 halftime advantage. But China turned things around in the third frame. China capped the period with an 8:0 run to secure a 50:47 advantage. The margin grew at 8-point mark midway through the fourth quarter 60:52. Japan managed to cut the deficit to only 2 points 60:62 with 13 seconds remaining. But Sijing Huang and Gong Li (187-F-95) scored four points in a row to seal the victory for China. Gong Li posted 11 points, while Qiang Yi added 9 in the winning case. Saori Miyazaki (165-SG-95) answered with 13 points for Japan. Yunika Nakamura had 11 points in the loss.

3-4 Place

South Korea - Taiwan 61-42
South Korea U18 claimed the place at the U18 Asia Championship pedestal. They overcame Taiwan in the consolation final tonight to clinch Bronze medals. The victory also means South Korea will play at the U19 World Championship in Lithuania next year. South Korea capitalized on a sloppy start from Taiwan to take a 13:7 lead after ten minutes. The teams stayed in a low-scoring mood throughout the second frame. South Korea secured a 24:18 halftime advantage. The Korean side managed to boost the gap in the third term. They entered the final quarter up by 8 points 38:30. Taiwan could not change the complexion of the game in the fourth frame. South Korea went on a 23:12 run and celebrated victory. Ku Seul (183-C-94) posted 20 points and 12 boards for the winners. Kim Hanbi (180-C-94) added 11 points, while Leeseul Kang grabbed 12 rebounds in the victory. Huang Yu-Ting (160-G-94) answered with 11 points and 10 rebounds for Taiwan. Lin Yu-Ting netted 9 points in the losing effort.

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AUSTRALIA

WNBL: Round 1 review - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in WNBL just started. There was no lack of interesting games this round.

Sydney UF - Canberra C. 61-74
The game was mostly controlled by Canberra Capitals. Sydney Uni Flames managed to win third quarter 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international guard Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) (169-79) stepped up and scored 18 points and 5 assists for the winners and forward Brigitte Ardossi (188-87, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Josep and Nicolas) chipped in 10 points and 9 rebounds. Four Canberra Capitals players scored in double figures. At the losing side international guard Alicia Poto (166-78) responded with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and power forward Tayla Roberts (191-93) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Sydney UF: T.Roberts 15+7reb, A.Poto 11+7reb+7ast, K.Ebzery 9+2reb+2ast, L.King 9+5reb+2ast, J.Kennedy 6+7reb+1ast, E.Manou 5+5reb
Canberra C.: J.Bibby 18+1reb+5ast, C.Wilson 16+4reb, B.Ardossi 10+9reb+2ast, S.Norwood 10+5reb+3ast, M.Dombkins 8+4reb+1ast, N.Hunt 7+2reb+4ast

Townsville F. - Logan T. 63-61
The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 20-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Townsville Fire outrebounded Logan Thunder 44-30 including 30 on the defensive glass. Forward Olivia Thompson (185-93) fired 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American forward Shanavia Dowdell (188-87, college: Louisiana Tech, agency: LBM Management) chipped in 8 points and 11 rebounds. New Zealand forward Natalie Taylor (182-84, college: SE Missouri St.) produced 18 points and 5 rebounds and forward Emma Langford (188-89, college: Wyoming) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Logan Thunder's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Logan T.: N.Taylor 18+5reb+1ast, E.Langford 16+5reb+2ast, L.Laur 9+2reb+2ast, K.Veal 8+8reb+1ast, H.Smith 4+6reb, O.Andrew 3+1reb+1ast
Townsville F.: O.Thompson 12+9reb+1ast, M.Cocks 11+3reb, S.Dowdell 8+11reb+1ast, J.Foley 8+7reb+2ast, M.Newley 8+3reb, K.Standish 6+3reb+1ast

West Coast - Bendigo S. 69-76
Bendigo Spirit managed to secure a 7-point victory 76-69 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 11 points at the halftime before their 44-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Bendigo Spirit dominated on the defensive end, holding West Coast Waves to just 7 points in third quarter. The former international point guard Kristi Harrower (166-75) stepped up and scored 28 points and 8 assists for the winners and center Gabrielle Richards (191-84, college: Oregon) chipped in 16 points and 12 rebounds. At the losing side the former international guard Deanna Smith (179-80) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals and center Natalie Burton (195-89, college: W.Virginia) scored 14 points. Bendigo Spirit maintains first place with 2-0 record.
Top scorers:
West Coast: D.Smith 17+11reb+7ast, N.Burton 14+4reb+2ast, M.Marsh 12+4reb+3ast, L.Wallbutton 9+8reb+1ast, D.Garbin 6+1reb, A.Edmondson 6+2reb+2ast
Bendigo S.: K.Harrower 28+4reb+8ast, G.Richards 16+12reb+1ast, K.Wilson 11+6reb+4ast, C.Aubry 8+5reb+1ast, H.Munro 6+3reb+1ast, M.Garrick 4+1reb

Dandenong R. - Bulleen B. 90-75
The game was mostly controlled by Dandenong Rangers. Bulleen Boomers was better in fourth quarter 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Dandenong Rangers dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Bulleen Boomers' 42. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Sara Blicavs (188-93) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Tegan Cunningham (185-88, college: Oklahoma St.) contributed with 8 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Dandenong Rangers players scored in double figures. Dandenong Rangers' coach Mark Wright allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Swingman Alice Kunek (186-91) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and international Rachel Jarry (185-91) added 17 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Bulleen Boomers.
Top scorers:
Bulleen B.: R.Jarry 17+6reb+2ast, A.Kunek 17+10reb+1ast, H.Grima 10+6reb+2ast, E.Randall 8+3reb+3ast, T.Madgen 8+7reb+8ast, R.Allen 5+5reb+1ast
Dandenong R.: S.Blicavs 19+8reb+2ast, K.Macleod 13+2reb+4ast, K.Phillips 12+9reb+2ast, C.Mijovic 12+6reb, S.Cumming 12+2reb+2ast, T.Cunningham 8+13reb+2ast

Adelaide - Bendigo S. 71-73
Adelaide Lightning was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 22-18 charge of Bendigo Spirit, which allowed them to win the game. They made 19-of-21 charity shots (90.5 percent) during the game. Adelaide Lightning was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international point guard Kristi Harrower (166-75) nailed a double-double by scoring 20 points, 8 rebounds and 10 assists for the winning side and center Gabrielle Richards (191-84, college: Oregon) accounted for 24 points and 9 rebounds (made all of her seven free throws). The former international center Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-80) came up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds and guard Amy Lewis (175-86, college: Troy) added 9 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Adelaide Lightning in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Adelaide: S.Batkovic-Brown 17+13reb+1ast, L.Hodges 15+3reb, J.Hill 10+3reb+2ast, A.Lewis 9+8reb+4ast, A.Marino 8+2reb+7ast, N.Payne 4+2reb+1ast
Bendigo S.: G.Richards 24+9reb, K.Harrower 20+8reb+10ast, K.Wilson 12+3reb+3ast, M.Garrick 5, H.Munro 4+1reb+1ast, C.Perera 4+5reb+2ast

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BOSNIA

Jolly JBS and Zeljeznicar enter Josip Slamic-Primo Memorial Final - by Eurobasket News

Jolly JBS and Zeljeznicar will play in the final of Josip Slamic-Primo Memorial in Croatia.
Jolly JBS outscored Split 87:59 in the first semifinal battle. Kristina Benic (180-F-88) came up with 24 points to lead the winners. Sibenik Jolly went on a stunning 29:2 run in the opening quarter. They ensured a 48:27 halftime lead. Jolly JBS entered the fourth frame up by 47 points 80:33. They slowed down a bit in the fourth quarter allowing Split to sweeten the pill at the end. Luca Ivankovic (207-C-87) recorded 19 points, while Ana Semren (190-C-88) added 16 points for the winners. Josipa Zovko (186-F-90) answered with 15 points for Split. Dora Goles (167-PG-97) had 11 points in the loss.
Bosnian Zeljeznicar fired past Zadar 67:58. Dajana Bugarin (179-G-89) carried Zeljeznicar to the victory with 32 points. Zadar enjoyed a 24:11 lead after ten minutes. But Zeljeznicar surged ahead in the second frame and posted a 36:34 halftime advantage. They maintained the lead throughout the second half and finished with a comfortable win. Nikolina Dzebo (184-F-95) accounted for 15 points, while Jelena Culafic (175-G-89) posted 10 for the winning side. Antonia Erslan (180-F-88) answered with 30 points for Zadar. Lara Majstorovic (182-F-90) netted 12 points in the defeat.

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CHINA

U18 Asia Championship: China defeat Japan to repeat as champions - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 66:60

China regained their U18 Asia Championship title. They defeated Japan in the remake of 2010 Final to clinch Gold once again. Yang LiWei (175-G-95) delivered 20 points to lead the winners.
It was a close battle from the start. China eked out a 16:15 lead after ten minutes. Japan shifted the gear and surged ahead in the second quarter. They secured a 38:30 halftime advantage. But China turned things around in the third frame. China capped the period with an 8:0 run to secure a 50:47 advantage. The margin grew at 8-point mark midway through the fourth quarter 60:52. Japan managed to cut the deficit to only 2 points 60:62 with 13 seconds remaining. But Sijing Huang and Gong Li (187-F-95) scored four points in a row to seal the victory for China. Gong Li posted 11 points, while Qiang Yi (193-F-94) added 9 in the winning case. Saori Miyazaki (165-SG-95) answered with 13 points for Japan. Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) had 11 points in the loss.

China U18: Yang LiWei 20, Gong Li 11, Qiang Yi 9
Japan U18: Saori Miyazaki 13, Yunika Nakamura 11

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CROATIA

DENMARK

Dameligaen Round 3: Lemvig keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News

There were just three rounds played in Regular Season of Dameligaen and we can clearly see which teams will fight for top positions and which will try to avoid bottom places.

The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Lemvig as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Lemvig defeated second-best Falcon at home 62-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Falcon. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Falcon trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 15-7 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 54-62 at the end of the game. Lemvig dominated on the defensive end, holding Falcon to just 7 points in second quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 40 of its points in the paint compared to Falcon's 20. They outrebounded Falcon 33-20 including 20 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for American forward Emily Hatch (185-F-89, college: San Diego) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Mallory Moore (F) contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Guard Sofie Vincents (171-87) answered with 21 points for Falcon. Falcon's coach Ole Vincents rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Lemvig have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with SISU. Falcon at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Horsholm. Falcon will play next round against strong Horsholm trying to get back on the winning streak. Lemvig will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked SISU in Copenhagen.
The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Horsholm (2-1) at the home court. Hosts were rolled over by SISU (3-0) 86-63. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Horsholm. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. It was a great evening for American center Marie Malone (190-89, college: Hofstra) who led her team to a victory scoring 21 points and 7 rebounds. Ida Pretzmann helped adding 15 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was swingman Therese Deemand (175-83, college: Binghamton) with 17 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. SISU have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Lemvig. Horsholm at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Falcon. SISU will play against league's leader Lemvig on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play against Falcon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game was also tough road defeat of 5th ranked Aabyhoj in a game versus Vaerlose (#8) 70-58. It was an exceptional evening for Janet Hatfield who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds. Kelly Meredith came up with 26 points and 5 rebounds for Aabyhoj in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Vaerlose (1-2) left bottom position moving up to fifth place, which they share with Amager. It was Aabyhoj's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Horsens. Vaerlose will meet bottom-ranked Horsens (#8) on the road in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Amager in Kastrup and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game between sixth ranked Amager (1-2) and bottom-ranked Horsens (0-3) in Kastrup ended with biggest points difference. Amager outscored guests from Horsens 92-46. The best player for the winners was Catharina Jensen who scored 19 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Amager left bottom position moving up to fifth place, which they share with Vaerlose. It was Horsens' third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. Amager's next round opponent will be Aabyhoj (#7) at home. Horsens will play against Vaerlose and look forward to get finally their first victory.

Horsholm - SISU 63-86

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Horsholm (2-1) at the home court. Hosts were rolled over by SISU (3-0) 86-63. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Horsholm. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. The game without a history. SISU led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Horsholm's 34. SISU forced 19 Horsholm turnovers. It was a great evening for American center Marie Malone (190-89, college: Hofstra) who led her team to a victory scoring 21 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Ida Pretzmann (174-90, college: TCU) helped adding 15 points and 7 rebounds. Five SISU players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was swingman Therese Deemand (175-83, college: Binghamton) with 17 points and 6 rebounds and guard Amalie Bonde (167-89) scored 10 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. SISU have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Lemvig. Horsholm at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Falcon. SISU will play against league's leader Lemvig on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play against Falcon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
SISU: M.Malone 21+7reb+2ast, T.Jorgensen 15+3reb+3ast, I.Pretzmann 15+7reb+1ast, K.Lund 11+3reb+7ast, T.Duelund 11+1reb+1ast, C.Blands 4+1reb+2ast
Horsholm: T.Deemand 17+6reb, A.Bonde 10+2reb+3ast, S.Ceccardi 9+4reb+1ast, M.Gerlyng-Hansen 9+3reb+2ast, A.Kristensen 8+2reb+3ast, L.Piechnik 4+5ast

Lemvig - Falcon 62-54

The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Lemvig as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Lemvig defeated second-best Falcon at home 62-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Falcon. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Falcon trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 15-7 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 54-62 at the end of the game. Lemvig dominated on the defensive end, holding Falcon to just 7 points in second quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 40 of its points in the paint compared to Falcon's 20. They outrebounded Falcon 33-20 including 20 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for American forward Emily Hatch (185-89, college: San Diego) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Mallory Moore contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Lemvig players scored in double figures. Guard Sofie Vincents (171-87) answered with 21 points and guard Josefine Vincents (164-92) added 13 points in the effort for Falcon. Falcon's coach Ole Vincents rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Lemvig have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with SISU. Falcon at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Horsholm. Falcon will play next round against strong Horsholm trying to get back on the winning streak. Lemvig will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked SISU in Copenhagen.
Top scorers:
Lemvig: M.Moore 16+6reb+1ast, E.Hatch 13+10reb+3ast, I.Udovalieva 10+3reb+3ast, K.Pedersen 10+2reb, T.Kristiansen 7+4reb, S.Schicher 6+7reb+2ast
Falcon: S.Vincents 21+2reb, J.Vincents 13+4reb+1ast, T.Fuller 12+3reb, E.Klint 3+1reb+1ast, S.Bartkova 2+5reb+1ast, M.Elmgreen 2+1reb

Vaerlose - Aabyhoj 70-58

An interesting game was also tough road defeat of 5th ranked Aabyhoj in a game versus Vaerlose (#8) 70-58. The game was mostly controlled by Vaerlose. Aabyhoj managed to win second period 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Aabyhoj 49-29 including a 22-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for Canadian center Janet Hatfield (190-85) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds. American guard Alexandra Chili (180, college: Muhlenberg) accounted for 23 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. Four Vaerlose players scored in double figures. American center Kelly Meredith (182, college: Assumption) came up with 26 points and 5 rebounds and guard Sofie Preetzmann (180-95) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Aabyhoj in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Vaerlose (1-2) left bottom position moving up to fifth place, which they share with Amager. It was Aabyhoj's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Horsens. Vaerlose will meet bottom-ranked Horsens (#8) on the road in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Amager in Kastrup and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Vaerlose: A.Chili 23+8reb+3ast, J.Hatfield 18+15reb+2ast, R.Fabricius 11+5reb, V.Bachler 10+8reb+2ast, B.Schelde 8+3reb, A.Dokkedal 0+5reb
Aabyhoj: K.Meredith 26+5reb+2ast, S.Preetzmann 15+5reb+2ast, J.Hoier 6+4reb+1ast, S.Kjems-Krognos 5, L.Ravn 2+2reb+1ast, B.Morsoe 2+3reb+1ast

Amager - Horsens 92-46

The game between sixth ranked Amager (1-2) and bottom-ranked Horsens (0-3) in Kastrup ended with biggest points difference. Amager outscored guests from Horsens 92-46. The game without a history. Amager led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Horsens' 32. They outrebounded Horsens 43-23 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Amager players were unselfish on offense dishing 34 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Horsens' players. The best player for the winners was swingman Catharina Jensen (183-89) who scored 19 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. point guard Ida Klussmann (169-93) chipped in 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Amager players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Sarah Bersang (168-95) who recorded 14 points and 4 steals and guard Rebecca Houmoller (175-92) added 4 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Amager left bottom position moving up to fifth place, which they share with Vaerlose. It was Horsens' third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. Amager's next round opponent will be Aabyhoj (#7) at home. Horsens will play against Vaerlose and look forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Amager: C.Jensen 19+6reb+7ast, I.Klussmann 16+7reb+5ast, E.Fogelstrom 10+5reb+1ast, C.Overgaard 10+7reb+2ast, E.Keller 9+4reb+3ast, L.Tobiasen 9+4reb+2ast
Horsens: S.Bersang 14+4reb+2ast, J.Ravn 9+1reb+1ast, S.Wich 6+3reb+1ast, I.Duffill 5+1reb+1ast, E.White 4+1reb, R.Houmoller 4+6reb+2ast

Standings - Dameligaen

Dameligaen Standings

1. Lemvig		3-0
2. SISU		3-0
3. Falcon		2-1
4. Horsholm		2-1
5. Amager		1-2
6. Vaerlose		1-2
7. Aabyhoj		0-3
8. Horsens		0-3

Regular Season: Round 3

Oct. 6: Amager - Horsens 92-46
Oct. 6: Vaerlose - Aabyhoj 70-58
Oct. 3: Horsholm - SISU 63-86
Oct. 6: Lemvig - Falcon 62-54

Regular Season: Round 4

Oct. 13: Horsens - Vaerlose
Oct. 13: Amager - Aabyhoj
Oct. 13: Lemvig - SISU
Oct. 13: Falcon - Horsholm

Stats Leaders - Damenligaen

Points Per Game

Emilie HESSELDAL
  Horsholm
  (185-F/C-90)
  Avg: 25

1. Hesseldal, Horsholm	25.0
2. Chili, Vaerlose	22.3
3. Preetzmann, Aabyh.	19.0
4. Hatch, Lemvig	19.0
5. Moore, Lemvig	18.3
6. Vincents, Falcon	17.7
7. Malone, SISU	16.7
8. Fuller, Falcon	15.7
9. Meredith, Aabyhoj	15.7
10. Hatfield, Vaerlose	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Janet HATFIELD
  Vaerlose
  (190-C-85)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Hatfield, Vaerlose	12.3
2. Hatch, Lemvig	10.7
3. Hesseldal, Horsholm	9.0
4. Malone, SISU	9.0
5. Chili, Vaerlose	7.7
6. Schicher, Lemvig	7.0
7. Jespersen, Aabyhoj	6.5
8. Gerlyng-H., Horsh.	6.3
9. Dyszkant, SISU	6.3
10. Klussmann, Amager	6.0

Assists Per Game

Ivana UDOVALIEVA
  Lemvig
  (172-PG-84)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Udovalieva, Lemvig	7.3
2. Lund, SISU	5.0
3. Jorgensen, SISU	3.7
4. Blands, SISU	3.3
5. Jensen, Amager	3.3
6. Pretzmann, SISU	3.0
7. Viso, Amager	3.0
8. Hatch, Lemvig	3.0
9. Klussmann, Amager	3.0
10. Bachler, Vaerlose	2.7

Steals Per Game

Mallory MOORE
  Lemvig
  (-F-)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Moore, Lemvig	4.7
2. Hesseldal, Horsholm	4.0
3. Jorgensen, SISU	3.0
4. Jespersen, Aabyhoj	2.5
5. Bersang, Horsens	2.0
6. Pretzmann, SISU	1.7
7. Preetzmann, Aabyh.	1.7
8. Hatch, Lemvig	1.7
9. Kristensen, Horsh.	1.7
10. Andersen, Falcon	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Janet HATFIELD
  Vaerlose
  (190-C-85)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Hatfield, Vaerlose	2.7
2. Tobiasen, Amager	1.0
3. Schicher, Lemvig	1.0
4. Dokkedal, Vaerlose	0.7
5. Hoier, Aabyhoj	0.7
6. Fuller, Falcon	0.7
7. Vincents, Falcon	0.5
8. Hesseldal, Horsholm	0.5
9. Gerlyng-H., Horsh.	0.3
10. Malone, SISU	0.3

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

EUROCUP

Wasserburg Rebuild To Become Dominant - by Diamadis Farmakis

TSV 1880 Wasserburg have entered a new era with the departure of long-running coach Hans Brei and the return of star player Anne Breitreiner as the German club set their sights on dominating the DBBL league over the long term and establishing themselves at the European level. But Bastian Wernthaler, who took over from Brei during the off-season, is aware that building up a name in Europe will take a long time.

"Our goal is over the next three to five years to be dominant in Germany and be champions and make a name in Europe," said the former German women's national team coach. "We want to compete with these EuroCup Women teams and bring the German national team players up to this level.''

"It's clear that it will not happen in the first season. We are playing in the EuroCup Women and just want to get our footing there."

When asked how high Wasserburg are thinking, Wernthaler said: "If a German team can establish themselves in the EuroCup Women over the next five years so that it's regularly a candidate for the quarter-finals that would be a high goal.

"The EuroLeague Women is still very, very far away when you look at the situation and standards in Germany."

Wernthaler knows his team is a major underdog in EuroCup Women Group D, which includes Nantes Reze, Dynamo-GUVD Novosibirsk and BBC Sint-Katelijne-Waver.

"The draw was a small shock for us when we saw Novosibirsk. But it wasn't a surprise that we would get at least one Russian team. What can you say? We will be on the road an entire week for that game. We see it also as an adventure," said the coach. "We don't have the experience of the other teams. Our team is entirely new. We want to use the EuroCup Women as an experience and learning tool for our players this year to maybe go after it more next year. It's a long-term project.''

Wernthaler totally rebuilt a Wasserburg team which was swept by Halle Lions in the semi-finals of the German play-offs last season as reigning champions. The team from southern Germany also won the league title five straight seasons from 2004 to 2008.

The only player returning is Rebecca Thoresen while the top acquisition was a familiar face in German international Breitreiner, who played with Wasserburg from 2004 to 2006 before collecting three years of EuroLeague Women experience and a season in the EuroCup Women in Spain, Poland, France and Italy.

"Anne is certainly the leader within the team and she passes her experience on to the younger players. I worked with her when I coached the German national team. So we know each other and Anne is a central foundation for the team," said Wernthaler.

The coach also brought in German internationals Stina Barnert, who played last season in Spain, and Katharina Fikiel as well as Finnish international Tiina Sten, who spent three of the past four seasons in Spain.

"I think we are on a good way. We want to show the German players that we are serious about the EuroCup Women. We want to show them that we want to work professionally and provide a platform in Europe for German players and others," said Wernthaler.

The commitment to the EuroCup Women was the only way to attract the higher-class players to Wasserburg, and the only way to bring in Wernthaler.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Rivas Ecopolis lose Jaklin Zlatanova to Achilles rupture - by Eurobasket News

Rivas Ecopolis suffered a serious roster blow as they lost Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) to partial Achilles rupture. The Bulgarian forward suffered an injury during a pre-season action. She is expected to miss at least four-five months now.
Jaklin Zlatanova joined Rivas Ecopolis this summer. She arrived from Bulgarian Rilski Sportist Samokov. Jaklin Zlatanova posted 31.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game in NBL. She also played for Mann Filer Zaragoza in LFB last season.

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

FINLAND

Welcome to SM-sarja 2012/2013 season - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in SM-sarja just started.

TuRi - PeKa 70-88

TuRi was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Peli-Karhut forced 23 TuRi turnovers. American swingman Korinne Campbell (182-88, college: W.Virginia) nailed a double-double by scoring 21 points and 18 rebounds for the winning side and her fellow American import guard Miriam McKenzie (177-90, college: Loyola, MD) accounted for 20 points and 8 rebounds. Five Peli-Karhut players scored in double figures. American forward Callan Taylor (182-90, college: Sacred Heart) came up with 25 points and 9 rebounds and Canadian guard Brittany Hedderson (175-90, college: Buffalo) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for TuRi in the defeat. TuRi's coach Juha Ruohonen rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win.

Top scorers:
PeKa: K.Campbell 21+18reb+3ast, M.McKenzie 20+8reb+2ast, N.Byrd 17+5reb, L.Lehtoranta 16+4reb+4ast, L.Richter 12+3reb+2ast, K.Hook 2+2reb
TuRi: C.Taylor 25+9reb, K.Karkkainen 11+2reb+2ast, B.Hedderson 10+6reb+3ast, S.Pelander 8+9reb, S.Ekstrom 6+3reb, C.Alander 6

Catz - FoA 80-69

The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 28-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Catz Lappeenranta forced 21 Forssan Alku turnovers. American swingman Alexandria Anderson (185-86, college: Chattanooga, agency: Regeneracom Sports) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and Russian power forward Jelena Reshetko (184-86) chipped in 10 points and 15 rebounds. At the losing side American point guard Sarah Miles (170-89, college: W.Virginia) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds and center Juta Jahilo (186-84) scored 21 points.
Top scorers:
Catz: A.Anderson 26+12reb+2ast, A.Makitalo 14+1reb+3ast, J.Reshetko 10+15reb+1ast, C.Jones 9+7reb+1ast, K.Summala 8+3reb+2ast, H.Vapamaa 6+3ast
FoA: J.Jahilo 21+4reb, S.Miles 19+13reb+3ast, H.Salomaa 19+3reb+1ast, H.Koponen 4+3reb, E.Woodson 4+5reb+1ast, L.Saarinen 2+5reb

Kerava - Honka 77-105

Honka outrebounded Kerava Energia Team 53-33 including a 35-24 advantage in defensive rebounds. American guard Melissa Jeltema (175-88, college: Oakland) fired a double-double by scoring 39 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Her fellow American import forward Jordan Greenleaf (185-87, college: Auburn, agency: Gamble Sports Management) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds (perfect from the field making all eight shots !!!). Four Honka players scored in double figures. Italian-Ghanian guard Rosetta Adzasu (165-90, college: Washington St.) produced 25 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and forward Roosa Lukkarinen (174-92) added 21 points and 9 rebounds respectively for lost side.

Top scorers:
Honka: M.Jeltema 39+12reb+6ast, J.Greenleaf 17+10reb+1ast, E.Leino 12+1reb+2ast, E.Laaksonen 10+6reb+1ast, V.Kesanen 8+4reb+1ast, E.Sipila 8+6reb+2ast
Kerava: R.Adzasu 25+5reb+4ast, R.Lukkarinen 21+9reb+3ast, R.Pakarinen 9+5reb, M.Ponnelin 6+3reb, E.Punkkinen 5+2reb+1ast, P.Tattari 3+3reb+1ast

Huima - HoNsU 78-71

HoNsU trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 27-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 71-78 at the end of the game. Aanekosken made 17-of-20 free shots (85.0 percent) during the game. Aanekosken outrebounded HoNsU 30-17 including a 24-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Aanekosken especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 60.0 percentage. American center Kenya Robinson (182-70, college: New Orleans) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and forward Erika Lagerstedt (174-91) chipped in 14 points (perfect from the field making all six shots). At the losing side American point guard Nia Jackson (170-89, college: Oregon, agency: Gamble Sports Management) responded with 20 points and 4 steals and international forward Minna Sten (189-87) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. HoNsU's coach Tuomas Oja tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Huima: K.Robinson 24+11reb+1ast, E.Lagerstedt 14+3reb, P.Torrance 10+7reb, J.Holliday 9+3reb+1ast, E.Nurmi 7+2reb, U.Latvala 6+1reb
HoNsU: N.Jackson 20+4reb, M.Sten 18+6reb, L.Lahtinen 13+3reb, C.Chisholm 5, K.Lind 4+1reb, T.Lepisto 3

ToPo - BC Nokia 75-55

BC Nokia was better in second period 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torpan Pojat dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to BC Nokia's 32. Torpan Pojat forced 19 BC Nokia turnovers and had a 32-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international power forward Niina Laaksonen (185-85) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 16 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. The former international forward Alli Arppe (185-81) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Guard Katri Menna (170-86) answered with 16 points and American guard Amani Franklin (180-88, college: Kentucky) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for BC Nokia.
Top scorers:
ToPo: N.Laaksonen 16+11reb+5ast, V.Holtta 12+2reb+3ast, A.Arppe 11+11reb+1ast, M.Eerikinharju 8+3reb, K.Valtakari 8+3reb, V.Kesanen 7+7reb+5ast
BC Nokia: K.Menna 16+4reb+2ast, A.Franklin 12+9reb, N.Hyvarinen 7+4reb+1ast, I.Venho 5+2reb+1ast, J.Kilpelainen 4+2reb, S.Jones 4+7reb

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

FRANCE

3-0, as good as it sounds... - by Romain Leroy

What's up, basketball world?

My last post is quite old now, and a lot of things happened since that day. The team I'm working with as an assistant coach -Nantes Rez Basket, french women's 1st div- is now 3W-0L, a couple of weeks before entering the EuroCup pool stage.

Working with this group is great. The team is well balanced, from every point of view: Profiles of players, talent, positions, tempers, youthness/experience, etc... Our state of mind is to stay focused on each game, one after the other, and we don't have crazy ambitions and unreachable goals to achieve. We just stay humble and work. And win games, of course.

This is my second experience as an assistant coach with a W's professional team. The first one was about 10 years ago, and the season ended with a bankrupt, and weird things coming along. In Nantes-Rez, it's different: this kind of scenario can not happen here. We have a strong front office, and a solid organization. Probably one of the best of the league, which makes things easier for both coaches and players. The only thing we, coaching staff, have to care about is basketball, basically...

Our next two games are going to be tough. Next saturday, we will play home against Lyon. They have a bunch of good players, and the team is probably a title-contender. The head coach is the former one of Nantes-Rez, which makes the game a bit more spicy. After that, on saturday oct. 20, we'll fly to Perpignan, for another tough game against the solid runner up from 2nd div.

And then will come the EuroCup... 6 games to play, at least. The competition will change our habits, because we are going to play on wednesday/thursday (EuroCup) and weekends (domestic league). Less time to practice, crazy schedule, and a huge road trip to Novosibirsk, Siberia. Great experience. We'll play in the pool D against Wasserburg (Ger), Sint Katelijne (Bel), and Dynamo Guvd Novosibirsk (Rus). I can't wait, and I guess I'm not the only one.

Talk to you soon, hoopsters...

PS: Congratulations to my former player Kai Williams and his team of Pizza Express Apollon (Limassol, Cyp), just qualified for the FIBA EuroChallenge... Have a good season!

LFB Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Emilija PODRUG
  Lyon
  (190-C-79)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Podrug, Lyon	19.3
2. Skrela, Lattes M.	16.7
3. Robert, Lattes M.	16.0
4. Bishop, Perpignan	15.0
5. Sanni, Villeneuve	14.7
6. Dieme, Villeneuve	14.3
7. Dumerc, Bourges	14.3
8. Diawara, Charlevil.	14.0
9. Kamba, Mondeville	14.0
10. Tolo, Aix-en-P.	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Stephany SKRBA
  Bourges
  (188-F-87)
  Avg: 13

1. Skrba, Bourges	13.0
2. Francis, Aix-en.	10.0
3. Sanni, Villeneuve	9.3
4. Humphrey, Landes	8.7
5. Dabo, Arras	8.7
6. Thorburn, Aix-en.	8.3
7. Murphy, Union H.	8.0
8. Bonnan, Charleville	7.7
9. Robert, Lattes M.	7.7
10. Sy-Diop, Lyon	7.7

Assists Per Game

Ingrid TANQUERAY
  Mondeville
  (166-PG-88)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Tanqueray, Mondevi.	7.5
2. Thorburn, Aix-en.	5.0
3. Bremont, Lattes M.	4.7
4. Lassiter, Mondevil.	4.5
5. Dumerc, Bourges	4.3
6. Plagnard, Lyon	4.0
7. Salagnac, Tarbes	4.0
8. Ciglar, Perpignan	3.7
9. Baer, Lyon	3.7
10. Gruszczynski, Aix.	3.7

Steals Per Game

Geraldine ROBERT
  Lattes M.
  (184-F-80)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Robert, Lattes M.	3.3
2. Kamba, Mondeville	3.0
3. Gomis, Arras	3.0
4. Bremont, Lattes M.	3.0
5. NSoki, Toulouse	2.7
6. Houts, Union H.	2.7
7. Lassiter, Mondevil.	2.5
8. Michel, Nantes	2.3
9. El Gargati, Tarbes	2.0
10. Rad, Tarbes	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Cayla FRANCIS
  Aix-en.
  (192-C-89)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Francis, Aix-en.	2.3
2. Ndongue, Bourges	2.3
3. Tolo, Aix-en-P.	2.0
4. Perostiyska, Union	1.7
5. Paugaite, Mondevil.	1.5
6. Lassiter, Mondevil.	1.5
7. Page, Lyon	1.3
8. Sy-Diop, Lyon	1.3
9. Gay, Toulouse	1.3
10. Digbeu, Villeneuve	1.0

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

GREECE

2012-13 A1 League starts this weekend - by Diamadis Farmakis

The Greek 2012 - 2013 women's A1 League start this weekend (6-7/10). The new championship features teams like the champion Athinaikos, the big rival Panathinaikos and the tradiitional team of Ikaros Kalitheas. Panathinaikos, with Dimitra Kalentzou in it's roster, is expected to be the team that will try to take the title from Athinaikos.

Here is the scedule of the first round.

Saturday
AO Elinikou - Asteras Exarheion

Terpsithea - Olimpiakos Volou

Athinaikos - Panionios

Kronos Agiou Dimitriou - Ikaros Kalitheas

Ano Liosia - PAOK

Sunday
Aris - Panathinaikos

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

ICELAND

Domino's league, second round - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Three games today in Domino's league. Keflavik & Snaefell showing how strong their teams are both with easy win

Njardvik last years Champion are struggling in beginning of the season and lost today at home to Haukar 57-60
Lele Hardy 24 points & 17 rebounds. Asdis Freysdottir 13. Eyrun Sigurdardottir 11 for Njardvik. Siarre Evans (178-G/F-88, college: E.Tenn.St.) with huge game 27 points and 24 rebounds for Haukar

Keflavik after slow start in the game run over Grindavik in second half and end up winning by 40 points. 87-47
Sara Run Hinriksdottir 20 points. Palina Gunnlaugsdottir 19 for Keflavik. For Grindavik Dellene Criner 19 points.

Snaefell 79. Fjolnir 59 Fjolnir has brought back Britney Jones to replace Porche Porter but that was not enought even Jones scored 34 points but nobody else on Fjolnir team did reach 10 points.
For Snaefell Kierah Marlow 21 + 13 rebounds. Hildur Kjartansdottir 17. Berglind Gunnarsdottir 13.

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

IRELAND

Nivea Womens Superleague - by Patrick Maher

This weekend also marks the start of the Nivea Womens Superleague season. The natural talking point heading into the year has been around whether or not University of Limerick can continue on from their historically successful campaign in 2011/2012.

James Weldon and his charges secured both the cup and league titles, topping a fantastic season for Limerick basketball as a whole. Their recent triumph, without star centre Michelle Fahy, at the preseason tournament last weekend has sent out a clear message of intent to the rest of the league that Limerick intend to pick up exactly where they left off.

It is the first weekend of the season so the players hunger is definitely there to get back out and play real games again, says Weldon.

Standing in their way this weekend is Killester, who will travel to Limerick quietly optimistic that they can pull off an opening weekend upset.

Killester have always given us a lot of trouble. Mark Grennell is a very astute coach and they are tough opposition to face first game out.

Although the season has yet to begin, likely contenders to the throne remain DCU Mercy and Team Montenotte Hotel Cork. A fourth team has yet to truly break into this top three in the womens game that has served up so many down to wire league title fights in recent years.

With a new season comes new hope however and Ulster Rockets and Meteors, who face DCU Mercy and Team Montenotte respectively on Saturday, will be hopeful of shaking things up with early upsets.

Elsewhere in the first weekend of Nivea Women's Superleague action Waterford Wildcats play at home against Liffey Celtics.

Basketball Fixtures for upcoming weekend

Saturday October 6th 2012

Nivea Womens SuperLeague
UL v Killester, UL Arena, 17:00; Ulster Rockets v DCU Mercy, De La Salle, 18:30; Team Montonette Hotel Cork v Meteors, Upper Glanmire, 19:00; WIT Wildcats v Liffey Celtics, Mercy Sports Hall, 19:00

Basketball Ireland Womens Division One
Portlaoise Panthers v NUIG Mystics, St. Marys Hall, 19:30

Sunday October 7th 2012

Nivea For Mens Superleague
UCC Demons v Dublin Inter, Mardyke Arena, 15:30

Basketball Ireland Mens Division One
Blue Demons v Ballon, Mardyke Arena, 13:00; Team Left Bank Kilkenny v Fr. Mathews, Watershed Sports Centre, 15:30

Basketball Ireland Womens Division One
Oblate Dynamos v UL, Oblate Hall, 13:30

Courtesy ....

Cian Nihill

Media, Corporate & Public Relations Officer

Basketball Ireland

cnihill@basketballireland.ie

0860212923 (Fax - 014590212)

National Basketball Arena,

Tymon Park,

Tallaght,

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

JAPAN

LUXEMBOURG

Standings - Women

Diekirch League Standings

1. AB Contern		2-0
2. Amicale		2-0
3. Etzella		1-0
4. Musel Pikes		1-0
5. T71 Dudelange		1-1
6. Basket Esch		0-2
7. Racing		0-2
8. Sparta		0-2

Regular Season: Round 2

Oct. 6: T71 Dudelange - Racing 87-77
Oct. 6: AB Contern - Sparta 77-43
Oct. 6: Amicale - Basket Esch 72-54

Regular Season: Round 3

Oct. 12: Etzella - Musel Pikes
Oct. 12: Sparta - Amicale
Oct. 12: Basket Esch - T71 Dudelange

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Meghan GARDLER
  Amicale
  (180-F/C-88)
  Avg: 35.5

1. Gardler, Amicale	35.5
2. Stevenson, Racing	26.0
3. Yoerger, AB Contern	23.0
4. Manakova, Amicale	22.5
5. Grieb, AB Contern	22.0
6. Pierce, Racing	19.5
7. Vaughn, Basket Es.	18.0
8. Bridenbaugh, T71 D.	17.5
9. Bruck, T71 D.	11.0
10. Orban, T71 D.	11.0

Rebounds Per Game

Meghan GARDLER
  Amicale
  (180-F/C-88)
  Avg: 13.5

1. Gardler, Amicale	13.5
2. Stevenson, Racing	11.5
3. Orban, T71 D.	9.5
4. Vaughn, Basket Es.	9.0
5. Manakova, Amicale	9.0
6. Yoerger, AB Contern	8.0
7. Hetting, Basket E.	7.5
8. Grieb, AB Contern	7.5
9. Murphy, Sparta	7.0
10. Fehlen, Amicale	7.0

Assists Per Game

Bridget YOERGER
  AB Contern
  (180-F/C-87)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Yoerger, AB Contern	3.5
2. Grieb, AB Contern	3.5
3. Wagener, T71 D.	3.5
4. Manakova, Amicale	3.5
5. Haris, Basket Esch	3.0
6. Marcus, Amicale	3.0
7. Schulte, Basket E.	2.5
8. Gardler, Amicale	2.5
9. Szaboova, Basket	2.0
10. Wagener, T71 D.	2.0

Steals Per Game

Meghan GARDLER
  Amicale
  (180-F/C-88)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Gardler, Amicale	5.5
2. Yoerger, AB Contern	5.0
3. Manakova, Amicale	4.5
4. Wagener, T71 D.	3.5
5. Grieb, AB Contern	3.0
6. Pierce, Racing	2.5
7. Hetting, Basket E.	2.0
8. Stevenson, Racing	1.5
9. Ludivig, AB Contern	1.5
10. Bausch, Amicale	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Alissa PIERCE
  Racing
  (177-G/F-86)
  Avg: 0.5

1. Pierce, Racing	0.5
2. Schmit, T71 D.	0.5
3. Gardler, Amicale	0.5
4. Schulte, Basket E.	0.5
5. Mangen, Amicale	0.5
6. Stevenson, Racing	0.5
7. Orban, T71 D.	0.5
8. Van Dyck, Amicale	0.5
9. Hetting, Basket E.	0.5
10. Bausch, Amicale	0.5

Diekirch League Round 2 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Regular Season in Diekirch League.

The game in Dudelange was quite interesting. Racing (0-2) played at the court of eighth T71 Dudelange (1-1). T71 Dudelange defeated Racing 87-77 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by T71 Dudelange. Racing managed to win third quarter 24-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. T71 Dudelange forced 21 Racing turnovers. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Lydia Bridenbaugh (178-F-89, college: W.Virg.Wesl.) who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Power forward Tonya Young (187-89, college: Vermont) chipped in 17 points and 11 rebounds. T71 Dudelange's coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Power forward Celeste Stevenson (180-82, college: W.Texas A&M) produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 10 rebounds for the guests. T71 Dudelange are looking forward to face Basket Esch on the road in the next round. Racing will have a break next round.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Contern. Local AB Contern (2-0) outscored Sparta (0-2) 77-43. German center Nadine Grieb (184-87) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 5 rebounds. Bridget Yoerger contributed with 17 points and 6 steals for the winners. Power forward Bracey Ulin (188-85) replied with 15 points for Sparta. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. AB Contern will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sparta will play at home against Amicale in Steinsel.

In the last game of round 2 winless Basket Esch lost to undefeated Amicale in Steinsel 54-72.
The best stats of 2nd round was 32 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals by Meghan Gardler of Amicale.

AB Contern - Sparta 77-43

The game with biggest result difference took place in Contern. Local AB Contern (2-0) outscored Sparta (0-2) 77-43. The game without a history. AB Contern led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Sparta's 22. AB Contern forced 26 Sparta turnovers. German center Nadine Grieb (184-87) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 5 rebounds. American power forward Bridget Yoerger (180-87, college: S.Dakota, agency: LBM Management) contributed with 17 points and 6 steals for the winners. Power forward Bracey Ulin (188-85) replied with 15 points and American swingman Robin Murphy (185, college: S.Mississippi) added 8 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Sparta. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. AB Contern will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sparta will play at home against Amicale in Steinsel.
Top scorers:
AB Contern: N.Grieb 20+5reb+2ast, B.Yoerger 17+4reb+3ast, C.Margue 14+3reb, L.Mathieu 6+1ast, A.Ludivig 6+3reb, C.Bidinger 3+1reb+1ast
Sparta: B.Ulin 15+4reb+1ast, R.Murphy 8+7reb, E.Skrijelj 8+1reb+3ast, C.Sitz 7+2reb+1ast, D.Tiganj 3+4reb, N.Greiveldinger 2+2reb

Amicale - Basket Esch 72-54

There was no surprise in Steinsel where Basket Esch (0-2) was defeated by Amicale (2-0) 72-54. Basket Esch was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Amicale dominated on the defensive end, holding Basket Esch to just 6 points in third quarter. They outrebounded Basket Esch 42-26 including 17 on the offensive glass. American power forward Meghan Gardler (180-88, college: Connecticut) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals. Czech power forward Petra Manakova (195-82, college: Oakland) contributed with 16 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American guard Krystal Vaughn (185-86, college: VCU, agency: LBM Management) replied with 14 points and 9 rebounds and her fellow American import guard Cerie Mosgrove (182-88, college: Massachusetts) added 19 points in the effort for Basket Esch. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Amicale will play against Sparta in Bertrange in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Basket Esch will play at home against T71 Dudelange and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Amicale: M.Gardler 32+10reb+5ast, P.Manakova 16+9reb+3ast, J.Bausch 9+3reb+1ast, T.Fehlen 5+10reb, N.Marcus 4+5reb+4ast, C.Marcus 4+1reb+1ast
Basket Esch: C.Mosgrove 19+3reb, K.Vaughn 14+9reb+1ast, L.Hetting 12+2reb+3ast, A.Haris 5+3reb+1ast, A.Szaboova 2+2reb+2ast, T.Hetting 2+6reb+1ast

T71 Dudelange - Racing 87-77

The game in Dudelange was quite interesting. Racing (0-2) played at the court of T71 Dudelange (1-1). T71 Dudelange defeated Racing 87-77 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by T71 Dudelange. Racing managed to win third quarter 24-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. T71 Dudelange forced 21 Racing turnovers. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Lydia Bridenbaugh (178-89, college: W.Virg.Wesl.) who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Power forward Tonya Young (187-89, college: Vermont) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds. Five T71 Dudelange players scored in double figures. T71 Dudelange's coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Power forward Celeste Stevenson (180-82, college: W.Texas A&M) produced a double-double by scoring 28 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Alissa Pierce (177-86) added 24 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. T71 Dudelange are looking forward to face Basket Esch on the road in the next round. Racing will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
T71 Dudelange: L.Bridenbaugh 20+7reb+2ast, T.Young 17+11reb, R.Wagener 11+3reb+5ast, M.Orban 10+9reb, K.Bruck 10+2ast, L.Schmit 5+1ast
Racing: C.Stevenson 28+10reb, A.Pierce 24+7reb, E.Lemmer 10+4reb+1ast, A.Wiance 6+5reb, R.Sclisizzi 4+2reb+1ast, M.Rassel 3+2reb

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SLOVAKIA

Slovak Extraliga: Complete 3rd round results - by Barbora Stuchlikova

MBK Ruzomberok - Good Angels Kosice 56:68 (17:18, 24:22, 10:17, 5:11)
Ruzomberok: Sequoia Holmes (185-F-86, agency: Merit Sports, college: UNLV) 13, Veronika Cernakova (175-G-90) 12, Katarina Tetemondova (188-F-88) 9
Kosice: Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) 15, Allie Quigley (180-G-86, college: De Paul) 13, Miljana Bojovic (181-G-87) 11
A total of 1200 supporters poured into Koniaren to witness a great encounter between Ruzomberok and Good Angels Kosice. Ruzomberok wanted to avenge their defeat to Good Angels at Kosice Grand Prix by winning the league match in front of their own fans. Good Angels struggled on defence, the hosts fought very hard and won the first half 41:40. After the break Good Angels outscored Ruzomberok and put themselves back on top. Ruzomberok tried to keep the match very close but their rivals controlled the game and managed another victory in the league. All in all, Good Angels defeated their arch rivals from Ruzomberok but to success in EuroLeague they need to avoid the needless critical moments on defence and work hard during the whole match.

BK Petrzalka - BKZ Levice 84:62 (19:13, 23:25, 22:12, 20:12)
Petrzalka: Terezia Palenikova 23, Kristina Machova (95) 17, Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) 11
Levice: Kubusova 16, Belanska 16, Michaela Ozdincova (170-G-92) 9
BK Petrzalka added second victory in the league. With Romana Vynuchalova on the roster they defeated BKZ Levice by 22 points. Terezia Palenikova shined for the hosts with 23 points and became top scorer of the match. Levice was led by Paula Kubusova and Andrea Belanska who combined for 32 points. The two players chipped in a half of Levice' s points.

ZBK Poprad - BK SOUZ Cassovia Kosice 61:65 (20:16, 9:16, 15:8, 17:25)
Poprad: Lavrakova 19, Nikola Turzakova (174-G-94) 13, Davisova 8
Cassovia: Katarina Timkova (172-F-81) 22, Eva Filickova (192-C-95) 10, Romana Oravcova (184-F/C-91) 9
After Poprad's loss by 111 points to Good Angels Kosice in the second round, the young team faced another squad from the same town. This time it was Cassovia. The game was very close and Poprad even led after third frame but Cassovia didn't give up and outscored their rivals in the last period 25:17. Cassovia could thank Katarina Timkova who grabbed 22 points for her team and won the game to Kosice.

Piestanske Cajky - SBS Ostrava 95:65 (25:12, 32:20, 21:16, 17:17)
Piestanske Cajky: Maria Felixova (191-C-90) 25, Lucia Krc-Turbova (185-F-87) 15, Michaela Malinkova (173-F-85) 15
Ostrava: Kristyna Minarovicova (174-G/F-91) 22, Ondrejkova 10, Verlikova 9
Piestanske Cajky defeated Ostrava without major difficulties. Maria Felixova, former Ruzomberok's player, gets a considerable amount of court time and proves she can develop into an important player. Against Ostrava she delivered 25 points, became the best scorer of the match and even more she was also the top scorer of the round. Piestanske Cajky blasted Ostrava with devastating first half performance. During after the break the hosts took their foot off the gas and relaxed. Nevertheless they still controlled the game and didn't allow Ostrava to recover.

SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves - SBK Samorin 76:64 (10:23, 27:12, 25:13, 14:16)
SNV : Romana Stehlikova (190-C-85) 17, Regina Palusna (192-F/C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) 16, Natasa Krnjetin (180-G-88) 11
Samorin : Porche Grant (187-C-88, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: S.Florida) 21, Timea Sujova (173-G-84) 19, Gyurcsiova 10
Samorin suffered second loss in a row this season. Although Spisska Nova Ves lost the first quarter by 13 points, they didn't give up and worked hard to erase the deficit. The team could count on excellent Romana Stehlikova and Regina Palusna who combined for 33 points. Shortly before the match Spisska Nova Ves had brought in experienced Laskova who was a huge help for the team especially in defense. Samorin was led by American center Porche Grand, who netted 22 points. Timea Timea Sujova added 19 points.

Slovak Extraliga: Complete 4th round results - by Barbora Stuchlikova

BK SOUZ Cassovia Kosice - BKZ Levice 45:56 (9:14, 12:11, 12:7, 12:24)
Cassovia: Timkova 13, Nedoroscikova 8, Bodisova 7
Levice: Kubusova 16, Bacova 12, Melezinkov 8
Two teams from the bottom spots of Slovak league met in fourth round. In a hard fought encounter Levice won after a great performance of Paula Kubusova, who led the team in crucial moments. She was among top three scorers of her club second time in a row. Levice won the first quarter but Cassovia gradually warmed up and put themselves on top after the third quarter. Levice entered fourth frame in a great style and outscored Cassovia 24:12.

ZBK Poprad - MBK Ruzomberok 39:94 (12:15, 8:29, 8:17, 11:33)
Poprad: Draganovska 10, Stohr 9, Davis 7
Ruzomberok: Cernakova 15, Kmetova 14, Andersson 12, Holmes 12
Poprad was able to keep pace with Ruzomberok just in the first quarter. The young players run out of energy very quickly and in the following period margin of Ruzomberok victory grew abnormally. Although Poprad brought in new players they still aren't ready to face the best Slovak teams.

SBK Samorin - Piestanske Cajky 76:65 (22:15, 23:15, 18:20, 13:15)
Samorin: Sujova 22, Gyurcsi 17, Talajkova 12
Piestanske Cajky: Lucia Krc-Turbova (185-F-87) 23, Palenikova 12 Simon 10
Samorin and Piestanske Cajky belong among valiant teams in the Slovak league, therefore a tough encounter was expected. Samorin brought in Vynuchalova who had played for BK Petrzalka in first rounds. On the other hand Piestanske Cajky got stronger too, they had signed Simon with experiences from WNBA. But it was Lucia Krc-Turbova who led Piestanske Cajky in scoring. She also became the best scorer of the match but despite her great performance Piestanske Cajky lost. Samorin had on their team talented Timea Sujova. She turns out to be a key player on their roster, she gets better with each game and it is just a matter of time she will get attention of high quality teams competing in European competitions. Besides Sujova, there is also Gyurcsi who had a great moments on offense netting 17 points. Although Piestanske Cajky won the second half of the match, they didn't recovered from sloppy first half.

Good Angels Kosice - SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves 89:48 (23:10, 28:10, 23:12, 15:16)
Good Angels: Krivacevic 19, Hruscakova 14, Bojovic 13
Spisska Nova Ves: Letkova 10, Krnjetin 8, Palusna 8, Stehlikova 8
The last match of the round between Good Anges Kosice and Spisska Nova Ves was an encounter of unbeaten teams in the Slovak league. But it is no surprise that the Euroleague squad of Good Angels Kosice took control on the game and led from the start. Kosice got young Hruscakova a lot of court time and she used it very well. She delivered 14 points and proved to belong among the greatest talents of Slovak women basketball nowadays.

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SOUTH KOREA

SPAIN

TAIWAN

U18 Asia Championship: South Korea steps onto the pedestal - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Taiwan U18 61:42

South Korea U18 claimed the place at the U18 Asia Championship pedestal. They overcame Taiwan in the consolation final tonight to clinch Bronze medals. The victory also means South Korea will play at the U19 World Championship in Lithuania next year.
South Korea capitalized on a sloppy start from Taiwan to take a 13:7 lead after ten minutes. The teams stayed in a low-scoring mood throughout the second frame. South Korea secured a 24:18 halftime advantage. The Korean side managed to boost the gap in the third term. They entered the final quarter up by 8 points 38:30. Taiwan could not change the complexion of the game in the fourth frame. South Korea went on a 23:12 run and celebrated victory. Ku Seul (183-C-94) posted 20 points and 12 boards for the winners. Kim Hanbi (180-C-94) added 11 points, while Leeseul Kang grabbed 12 rebounds in the victory. Huang Yu-Ting (160-G-94) answered with 11 points and 10 rebounds for Taiwan. Lin Yu-Ting (183-F-94) netted 9 points in the losing effort.

South Korea U18: Ku Seul 20+12 boards, Kim Hanbi 11, You Seunghee 8, Kim Minjeong 8
Taiwan U18: Huang Yu-Ting 11+10 boards, Lin Yu-Ting 9

Taiwan 4th place in FIBA Asia U18 womens championship - by Chris Wang

Taiwan U18 womens NT lost to South Korea 61-42 in the bronze medal game of the 2012 FIBA Asia U18 Womens Championship in Johor Bahru, Malaysia yesterday and failed to win a ticket to the World Championship.

Taiwan defeated South Korea 88-71 in its last preliminary game, but the team obviously was still in a slump yesterday after suffering a 113-55 defeat against Japan in the semifinal.

The team shot 24 percent from the field and 1 of 17 from the three-point range, with Huang Yu-ting tallying a team-high 11 point and 10 rebounds. Lin Yu-ting only had 9 points.

Meanwhile, China beat Japan 66-60 in the title game to win its unprecedented 13th gold in the event.

Taiwan NT in Johor Bahru:
Taiwan 69-79 China
Taiwan 77-85 Japan
Taiwan 74-58 Thailand
Taiwan 84-40 Malaysia
Taiwan 88-71 Korea
Semifinal Taiwan 55-113 Japan
3/4 game Taiwan 42-61 Korea

Preliminary rankings
LEVEL I
TeamWL
China (CHN)50
Japan (JPN)41
Chinese Taipei (TPE)32
Korea (KOR)23
Thailand (THA)14
Malaysia (MAS)05
LEVEL II
TeamWLPtsGA
India (IND)40
Hong Kong (HKG)31
Kazakhstan (KAZ)22
Singapore (SIN)13
Sri Lanka (SRI)04

Final rankings
Rank Team NameW-L
LEVEL I
1 China 7-0
2 Japan 5-2
3 Korea 3-4
4 Ch. Taipei 2-5
5 Thailand 2-4*
6 Malaysia 0-6**

LEVEL II
1 India 5-0
2 Hong Kong 3-2**
3 Kazakhstan** 2-2
4 Singapore 1-3
5 Sri Lanka 0-4

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TURKEY

Mersin signs Chantelle Handy, ex Athinaikos - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mersin BSH Bld (TKBL) signed 25-year old British international center Chantelle Handy (191-87, college: Marshall). Handy played last season at Athinaikos in Greek A1 league. In 15 A1 games last year she had 13.5ppg, 5.1rpg and 2.3apg. She helped them to win the title and the cup. A very impressive season as she was voted Eurobasket.com All-Greek League Bosman Player of the Year and named to 1st Team.
Handy has been also a member of British international program for some years. She has played for Senior National Team since 2008 and previously for University National Team between 2009 and 2011. Handy represented United Kingdom at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) this year. Her stats at that event were 5 games: 1.8ppg.
She attended Marshall University until 2010 and it will be her third season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @lovewomensbball)

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UNITED KINGDOM

WNBA

Sun beat Fever 76-64 in Eastern finals opener - by Eurobasket News

A pair of Olympians took control on both ends of the court in the second half to help the Connecticut Sun pull away from Indiana in the opener of the Eastern Conference finals.

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 18 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and blocked four shots to lead Connecticut to the 76-64 win Friday night. Meanwhile, Asjha Jones (6'2''-PF-80, college: Connecticut) played lock-down defense on Tamika Catchings, holding the Fever's star to just two field goals and seven points.

''Defense is always my priority,'' Jones said. ''Guarding her was my main focus, trying to stay between her and the basket.''

Charles, the WNBA's MVP, had just four first-half points but came alive in the third quarter, scoring 10 points and grabbing six rebounds as the Sun broke open a 30-30 game.

She brought the crowd into the contest with an offensive rebound, putback and free throw to highlight a 14-2 run that gave the Sun control. Connecticut led 54-43 after three quarters and by as many as 16 in the fourth.

''In the second half, I just wanted to set the tone, just getting on the 'O' boards as much as I could to score,'' Charles said.

Kara Lawson (5'8''-PG-81, college: Tennessee) had 16 points and Tan White added 13 for the Sun, who swept New York in the opening round and have now won eight of their last nine games.

Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue), who spent five years with the Sun and her first seven years in the WNBA with the franchise that moved from Orlando to Connecticut, had 27 points to lead the Fever. She hit 11 of her 19 shots, including 5 of 10 from 3-point range.

''I like it here in Connecticut,'' she said. ''I played here for five years, so I'm very comfortable with the rims, the floor, the lighting, you know everything that a shooter kind of needs.''

But it was a struggle for Catchings. She had a blocked shot, a rebound, an assist and a 3-pointer in the game's opening minute, but had just one more field goal all night, missing her next 11 shots.

''We just made her work to catch the ball, and made her uncomfortable when she caught it,'' said Sun coach Mike Thibault. ''Asjha, I thought, did a terrific job tonight. You know that's a classic battle. You're talking about two of the best power forwards in the league going head-to-head. It was a key matchup.''

Connecticut outrebounded Indiana 30-25 and had 15 second-chance points, overcoming a strong start from Indiana.

Douglas had 10 first-quarter points and the Fever closed that quarter on a 9-0 run to take a 22-14 lead.

Charles began to assert herself on defense in the second. She had all four of her blocked shots as the Sun limited the Fever to just eight points, and held Douglas scoreless.

The Sun won the season series 3-1 but only one of those games took place after the Olympic break - and Connecticut needed overtime to win that one.

In addition to playing lock-down defense, Jones had 11 points. She had missed 14 games in the second half of the season with a strained left Achilles' tendon before returning in the final week

''I'm hanging in there,'' she said. ''No letdown in the second half so (the Achilles) has been holding up pretty well.''

Erlana Larkins, who didn't break the starting lineup until two games before the playoffs, had nine points and eight rebounds after averaging just over 14 points and just under 11 rebounds against Atlanta in the first round.

The Fever, who also lost the opener of their series with the Dream, is in their third conference final in four years. Indiana had won four of five coming in after a three-game slide that knocked them out of contention for the East's top overall seed.

The series moves to Indiana on Monday with the third game, if necessary, back in Connecticut on Oct. 11.

''We're going to take away five of those second-chance points,'' said Fever coach Lin Dunn. ''We're going to get four or five more of our shots. We're going to get to the free-throw line two or three more times and we're going to win the second game.''

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports