Eurobasket Daily News Report: 11/2/2012 4:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 11/2/2012 4:04:01 AM

Copyright � 1997-2012 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com

Men News

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

ABA

San Diego Surf preparing their home debut - by Gianni Pascucci

The The San Diego Surf have been busy in the off-season with scrimmage 4-games in the Enfuego Pro Showcase, 11-games in the famous Drew League against several current NBA players, 30-games in China, 3-games agaist a top Mexican team and 2-games against the All U.S. Marine Corps team. One player contracted with a team in Ireland, one in China and one in the Knicks training camp.
The Surf, ranked #8 out of 90 ABA teams nationwide in the ABA pre-season ranking are stronger and faster than ever with the new Surfettes Dance team to add to the excitement. The team kicks off the 2012-13 Season at home vs. the OrangeCounty Novastars in the HourGlass Arena at MiramarCollege, Sat. Nov. 3rd at 8:30pm

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

ALGERIA

Standings

D1 Standings

Group A
1. CRB Dar El-B.		2-0
2. O Batna		2-0
3. USM Blida		2-0
4. Arreridj		1-1
5. GS Petroliers		1-1
6. USM Alger		1-1
7. Annaba		0-1
8. Trefle BB Blida		0-1
9. COBB		0-2
10. MS Cherchell		0-2
Group B
1. CSMC		2-0
2. Skikda		2-0
3. Staoueli		2-0
4. Sidi-bel-Abbes		1-1
5. US Setif		1-1
6. WA Boufarik		1-1
7. NAH Dey		1-1
8. CR Bir Khadem		0-2
9. CRB Temouch.		0-2
10. CSMB		0-2

Regular Season: Round 2

Group A

Oct. 30: GS Petroliers - CRB Dar El-B. 67-79
Oct. 30: USM Alger - Trefle BB Blida 65-56
Oct. 30: MS Cherchell - USM Blida 58-63
Oct. 30: Annaba - O Batna 57-80
Oct. 30: COBB - Arreridj 54-63

Group B

Oct. 30: CSMC - WA Boufarik 85-58
Oct. 30: CRB Temouch. - Staoueli 69-84
Oct. 30: Sidi-bel-Abbes - Skikda 65-73
Oct. 30: CR Bir Khadem - NAH Dey 65-67
Oct. 30: CSMB - US Setif 46-68

Welcome to Algerian Basketball League 2012/2013 - by Eurobasket News

Algerian Basketball League 2012/2013 opened the doors for 20 teams. They are all divided into Group A and B with 10 teams in each.
In the first games CRB Dar El Beda overcame USM Alger 88:36, while later CRB Dar El Beda beat Groupe Sportif Petrolier 79:67. O Batna meanwhile outscored AU Annaba 80:57 and NB Staoueli edged CRB Tmouchent 84:69. irb Bordj Bou Arreridj won over COBB Oren 63:54 and CSMC CONSANTINE rolled over WA Boufarik 85:58.

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

APBL

Metro Ready for APBL - by Justin Moore

The Metropolitan Allstars have released there roster for there debut in the APBL the former EBA champs have there core players back and will be a team to watch in there first season in the new utra competative league here is there roster below.

Andrew Harding (5'10''-G-82, college: Glenville St.)

Terrance Carter (6'5''-F-84, college: JMU)

Eric Poole (6'9''-F/C-76, college: Richmond)

Calvin Brown (6'9''-C-83, college: Norfolk St.)

Elyon Bush (6'7''-F-85, college: Delaware St.)

Cedrick Stewart

William Schwartzstein (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Emory & Henry)

Burgess Williams (6'10''-C-82, college: W.Virginia St.)

Antwon Hawkins (6'5''-G, college: District of Col.)

Raason Young (6'6''-F, college: Montana St. - Billin)

Curtis Massey (6'7''-F-86, college: Bowie St.)

Curtis Crews (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Montgomery CC)

Naurice Mullings (6'9''-C/F-85, college: Cecil CC)

Eric Wilkins (5'10) pg

Brian Davidson (6'8''-F)

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

AUSTRALIA

Kilsyth Cobras add Kusnyer to their roster, ex Oshawa P. - by Eurobasket

Kilsyth Cobras (State League) added to their roster 26-year old American guard E.J. Kusnyer (196-86, college: Mercer). Kusnyer played last season at Oshawa Power in Canadian NBL. The 2001 summer he played at Gwinnett Majic in WBA. He helped them to win the league title. Kusnyer also played at Rotterdam Challengers in Dutch Eredivisie that season. In 11 games last year he recorded 13.9ppg and 2.3rpg.
He graduated from Mercer University in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

AUSTRIA

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Bundesliga Standings

1. BC Vienna		5-0
2. Wels		4-1
3. Kapfenberg		3-1
4. Klosterneub.		3-2
5. Gussing		3-2
6. UBSC Graz		3-2
7. Oberwart		2-2
8. Gmunden		1-3
9. St.Polten		1-4
10. Arkadia		0-4
11. Furstenfeld		0-4

Regular Season: Round 5

Nov. 1: BC Vienna - UBSC Graz 96-90
Nov. 1: Klosterneub. - Gussing 89-71
Nov. 1: Wels - St.Polten 89-57
Nov. 1: Oberwart - Kapfenberg 68-85
Nov. 1: Furstenfeld - Gmunden 66-99

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 4: St.Polten - Klosterneub.
Nov. 4: Gussing - Wels
Nov. 4: Gmunden - Oberwart
Nov. 4: Arkadia - Furstenfeld
Nov. 4: Kapfenberg - BC Vienna

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Tyler TIEDEMAN
  Wels
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 27

1. Tiedeman, Wels	27.0
2. Pearson, Furstenf.	21.3
3. Dale, UBSC G.	21.2
4. Shaw, Kapfenberg	20.5
5. Lamesic, Wels	20.4
6. Gilchrese, UBSC G.	19.8
7. Ray, BC Vienna	19.6
8. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	18.5
9. Farokhmanesh, Wels	17.8
10. Speiser, St.Polten	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Maurice PEARSON
  Furstenf.
  (206-F/C-89)
  Avg: 11.8

1. Pearson, Furstenf.	11.8
2. Trmal, BC Vienna	10.2
3. Speiser, St.Polten	9.2
4. Heard, Gussing	9.0
5. Lamesic, Wels	8.4
6. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.	7.8
7. Johnson, Oberwart	7.8
8. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	7.7
9. Bortolin, Arkadia	7.3
10. Suljanovic, Klost.	7.2

Assists Per Game

Ian BOYLAN
  BC Vienna
  (197-G/F-83)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Boylan, BC Vienna	7.4
2. O''Neal, Furstenfeld	6.0
3. Woods, Kapfenberg	5.0
4. Klepeisz, Gussing	4.8
5. Farokhmanesh, Wels	4.4
6. Lanegger, Klostern.	4.2
7. Danek, BC Vienna	4.2
8. Pryor, Kapfenberg	4.0
9. Ahmetbasic, Wels	3.8
10. Bortolin, Arkadia	3.8

Steals Per Game

Lorenzo O''NEAL
  Furstenfeld
  (188-G-88)
  Avg: 2.3

1. O''Neal, Furstenfeld	2.3
2. Pryor, Kapfenberg	2.3
3. Arnold, Gmunden	2.3
4. Ray, BC Vienna	2.0
5. Gilchrese, UBSC G.	1.8
6. Koch, Gussing	1.6
7. Farokhmanesh, Wels	1.6
8. Klepeisz, Gussing	1.6
9. Boylan, BC Vienna	1.6
10. Graf, Arkadia	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Joe Dean SHAW
  Kapfenberg
  (199-F-87)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Shaw, Kapfenberg	1.3
2. Bortolin, Arkadia	1.3
3. Cresnar, Furstenf.	1.3
4. Washington, Wels	1.2
5. Greimeister, Klost.	1.0
6. Fruehwirth, Oberw.	0.7
7. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.7
8. Francois, BC Vienna	0.6
9. Trmal, BC Vienna	0.6
10. Gant, Oberwart	0.5

A Bundesliga Round 5 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Round 5 most important game was a victory of Kapfenberg Bulls over 6th ranked Redwell Gunners Oberwart 85-68 on Thursday night. The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 50-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Kapfenberg Bulls made 26-of-31 free shots (83.9 percent) during the game, while Redwell Gunners Oberwart only scored ten points from the stripe. 26 personal fouls committed by Redwell Gunners Oberwart helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American players dominated the game. Swingman Quentin Pryor (193-83, college: Morehead St., agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Forward Joe Dean Shaw (199-87, college: Nevada) contributed with 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Forward Darnell Gant (203-89, college: Washington) answered with 26 points and 8 rebounds for Redwell Gunners Oberwart. Kapfenberg Bulls (3-1) moved-up to third place. Redwell Gunners Oberwart at the other side dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. Kapfenberg Bulls are looking forward to face league's leader BC Vienna in Wien in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Redwell Gunners Oberwart will play on the road against Gmunden Swans (#8) in Gmunden and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Gussing Knights (3-2) against seventh ranked Xion Dukes (3-2) on Thursday night. Visiting Gussing Knights were defeated by Xion Dukes in Klosterneuburg 89-71. American swingman Curtis Bobb (198-78, college: Utah St.) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and Ramiz Suljanovic chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds. International forward Sebastian Koch (202-88) responded with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with UBSC Graz and Gussing. Xion Dukes will play against St.Polten (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Gussing Knights will play against the league's second-placed Raiffeisen Wels (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for BC Vienna (5-0) which hosted in Wien 4th placed UBSC Graz (3-2). Leader BC Vienna managed to get a 6-point victory 96-90. Zarko Rakocevic nailed 29 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Michael Anthony Dale came up with 24 points and 7 rebounds for UBSC Graz in the defeat. Undefeated BC Vienna have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 5-0 record. Loser UBSC Graz keeps the fourth position with two games lost. They share it with Klosterneub. and Gussing. BC Vienna will meet Kapfenberg Bulls (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UBSC Graz will have a break next round.
Gmunden Swans' fans can celebrate the first win of their team after three consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as it came on the road game in Furstenfeld, where they outplayed Furstenfeld Panthers (0-4) 99-66. The best player for the winners was Richard Poiger who scored 22 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. Gmunden Swans (1-3) left bottom position moving up to eighth place. It was Furstenfeld Panthers' fourth loss in a row. They still closes the standings with four games lost. Gmunden Swans' next round opponent will be higher ranked Redwell Gunners Oberwart (#7) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Furstenfeld Panthers will play against Arkadia Lions (#10) in Traiskirchen and hope to get finally their first victory.

In the last game of round 5 St.Polten was smashed by Wels on the road 89-57.
The most impressive performance of 5th round was 22 points and 9 rebounds by Davor Lamesic of Wels.

Furstenfeld - Gmunden 66-99

Gmunden Swans' fans can celebrate the first win of their team after three consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as it came on the road game in Furstenfeld, where they outplayed Furstenfeld Panthers (0-4) 99-66. The game without a history. Gmunden Swans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Furstenfeld Panthers' 44 and made 20-of-25 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was international Richard Poiger (202-87) who scored 22 points. American forward Dan Oppland (203-84, college: Valparaiso, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Five Gmunden Swans players scored in double figures. American power forward Maurice Pearson (206-89, college: Georgetown, KY) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds and Slovenian center Blaz Cresnar (214-86) added 8 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Gmunden Swans (1-3) left bottom position moving up to eighth place. It was Furstenfeld Panthers' fourth loss in a row. They still closes the standings with four games lost. Gmunden Swans' next round opponent will be higher ranked Redwell Gunners Oberwart (#7) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Furstenfeld Panthers will play against Arkadia Lions (#10) in Traiskirchen and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Gmunden: R.Poiger 22+2reb, D.Oppland 15+6reb+1ast, M.Oppland 13+8reb, E.Murati 13+3reb+1ast, R.Arnold 10+1reb+3ast, J.Brown 10+3reb+4ast
Furstenfeld: M.Pearson 21+13reb, C.Cox 10+2reb+1ast, S.Grum 9+3reb+3ast, B.Cresnar 8+9reb+1ast, P.Radakovics 6, L.O'Neal 4+3reb+6ast

Oberwart - Kapfenberg 68-85

Round 5 most important game was a victory of Kapfenberg Bulls over 6th ranked Redwell Gunners Oberwart 85-68 on Thursday night. The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 50-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Kapfenberg Bulls made 26-of-31 free shots (83.9 percent) during the game, while Redwell Gunners Oberwart only scored ten points from the stripe. 26 personal fouls committed by Redwell Gunners Oberwart helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American players dominated the game. Swingman Quentin Pryor (193-83, college: Morehead St., agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Forward Joe Dean Shaw (199-87, college: Nevada) contributed with 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Five Kapfenberg Bulls players scored in double figures. Forward Darnell Gant (203-89, college: Washington) answered with 26 points and 8 rebounds and guard Mario Edwards (191, college: Co.Carolina) added 17 points in the effort for Redwell Gunners Oberwart. Kapfenberg Bulls (3-1) moved-up to third place. Redwell Gunners Oberwart at the other side dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. Kapfenberg Bulls are looking forward to face league's leader BC Vienna in Wien in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Redwell Gunners Oberwart will play on the road against Gmunden Swans (#8) in Gmunden and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kapfenberg: Q.Pryor 22+3reb+3ast, J.Dean Shaw 18+5reb+1ast, D.Nelson 14+7reb+1ast, M.Sanchez 13+6reb+2ast, G.Woods 11+5reb+2ast, F.Kramer 5+1reb
Oberwart: D.Gant 26+8reb+2ast, M.Edwards 17+4reb+2ast, C.Gradnigo 10+3reb, H.Ochsenhofer 6+2reb+1ast, J.Johnson 4+11reb, E.Fruehwirth 3+1reb+1ast

Wels - St.Polten 89-57

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Raiffeisen Wels (4-1) crushed at home 8th ranked St.Polten (1-4) 89-57. The game was mostly controlled by Raiffeisen Wels. St.Polten was better in fourth quarter 12-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Raiffeisen Wels dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to St.Polten's 28 and made 19-of-22 charity shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Raiffeisen Wels forced 19 St.Polten turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by St.Polten's players. 25 personal fouls committed by St.Polten helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Tyler Tiedeman (201-85, college: Boise St., agency: Interperformances) who scored 28 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). The former international Davor Lamesic (205-83, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). Raiffeisen Wels' coach Pete Miller felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international forward Martin Speiser (202-83) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds and guard Thomas Csebits (192-89) added 17 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Raiffeisen Wels. They moved-up to second place. St.Polten at the other side dropped to the ninth position with four games lost. Raiffeisen Wels' next round opponent will be Gussing Knights (#5) on the road. St.Polten will play against Xion Dukes (#4) in Klosterneuburg.
Top scorers:
Wels: T.Tiedeman 28+5reb+3ast, D.Lamesic 22+9reb+3ast, M.Ahmetbasic 11+8reb+5ast, A.Farokhmanesh 9+3reb+8ast, R.Vieider 9+3reb, D.Washington 7+4reb+1ast
St.Polten: T.Csebits 17+4reb+4ast, M.Speiser 14+10reb+1ast, M.Kohlmaier 7+4reb+1ast, M.Pinezich 6+4reb+2ast, A.Worenz 5+2reb, L.Gvozden 4+3reb

Klosterneub. - Gussing 89-71

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Gussing Knights (3-2) against seventh ranked Xion Dukes (3-2) on Thursday night. Visiting Gussing Knights were defeated by Xion Dukes in Klosterneuburg 89-71. Gussing Knights were ahead by 6 points at the halftime before a 31-5 third quarter run of Xion Dukes. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Gussing Knights to just 5 points in third quarter. It was a great shooting night for Xion Dukes especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. Gussing Knights were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American swingman Curtis Bobb (198-78, college: Utah St.) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and Bosnian power forward Ramiz Suljanovic (205-79) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds. Five Xion Dukes players scored in double figures. International forward Sebastian Koch (202-88) responded with 22 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Marcus Heard (201-84, college: De Paul) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with UBSC Graz and Gussing. Xion Dukes will play against St.Polten (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Gussing Knights will play against the league's second-placed Raiffeisen Wels (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Klosterneub.: C.Bobb 23+2reb+2ast, R.Suljanovic 15+8reb+1ast, K.Payton 15+7reb+2ast, M.Lanegger 10+3reb+3ast, D.Zeleznik 10+1reb+2ast, J.Chappell 6+5reb
Gussing: S.Koch 22+6reb+1ast, M.Heard 14+6reb+1ast, E.Kadic 13+3reb+1ast, T.Klepeisz 9+2reb+4ast, M.Jandrasits 8+2reb, M.Klepeisz 3+3reb+1ast

BC Vienna - UBSC Graz 96-90

An interesting game for BC Vienna (5-0) which hosted in Wien 4th placed UBSC Graz (3-2). Leader BC Vienna managed to get a 6-point victory 96-90. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-16. But UBSC Graz won second period 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BC Vienna looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 15 passes made by UBSC Graz's players. Montenegrin forward Zarko Rakocevic (204-84, agency: Interperformances) nailed 29 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and swingman Florian Trmal (193-89) accounted for 19 points and 10 rebounds. American swingman Michael Anthony Dale (197-84, college: S.Illinois) came up with 24 points and 7 rebounds and Croatian power forward Milan Stegnjaic (204-81) added 19 points and 12 rebounds respectively for UBSC Graz in the defeat. Four UBSC Graz players scored in double figures. BC Vienna have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 5-0 record. Loser UBSC Graz keeps the fourth position with two games lost. They share it with Klosterneub. and Gussing. BC Vienna will meet Kapfenberg Bulls (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UBSC Graz will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
BC Vienna: Z.Rakocevic 29+6reb+2ast, S.Ray 21+4reb, F.Trmal 19+10reb+3ast, S.Stazic 9+1reb+5ast, B.Danek 8+3reb+6ast, J.Francois 6+2reb+2ast
UBSC Graz: M.Anthony Dale 24+7reb+2ast, M.Stegnjaic 19+12reb+2ast, E.Gilchrese 19+3reb+3ast, R.Lanegger 12+3reb+3ast, S.Schaal 8+5ast, A.Heuberger 5

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

BALTIC LEAGUE

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Group A
1. Ventspils			5-0
2. Siauliai			3-1
3. Barsy Atyrau			2-3
4. TTU			1-2
5. Naglis Palangos			1-3
6. Rapla			0-3
Group B
1. TU/Rock			5-1
2. Lietkabelis			3-1
3. Juventus			3-2
4. Liepaja			2-2
5. Jelgava			1-3
6. Valga			0-5
Group C
1. Rudupis			6-0
2. Barons kvartals			2-2
3. Sakalai			2-2
4. Nevezis			2-2
5. Tarvas			1-3
6. Tln Kalev			1-5
Group D
1. Pieno Zvaigzdes			2-0
2. Valmiera			2-1
3. Kalev/Cramo			1-0
4. LSU-Baltai			0-2
5. Parnu			0-2

Regular Season: Round 7

Nov. 1: Tln Kalev - Nevezis 60-80
Nov. 2: Naglis Palangos - TTU
Nov. 2: Jelgava - Liepaja
Nov. 2: Tarvas - Nevezis
Nov. 3: Kalev/Cramo - LSU-Baltai
Nov. 3: Ventspils - TTU
Nov. 3: Siauliai - Rapla
Nov. 3: Pieno Zvaigzdes - Valmiera
Nov. 3: Barons kvartals - Rudupis
Nov. 4: Parnu - LSU-Baltai
Nov. 6: Kalev/Cramo - Valmiera

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Maris GULBIS
  Barons k.
  (202-F-85)
  Avg: 19.8

1. Gulbis, Barons k.	19.8
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	18.5
3. Bergmanis, Barons	17.3
4. Leonard, Juventus	17.0
5. Tamm, Tarvas	16.8
6. Orelikas, Rudupis	16.7
7. Matyukevych, Bars.	16.6
8. Samenas, Siauliai	16.3
9. Andriukaitis, Liet.	15.5
10. Lengvinas, Naglis	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Vadim MATYUKEVYCH
  Barsy A.
  (208-C-80)
  Avg: 10

1. Matyukevych, Bars.	10.0
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	9.7
3. Cipruss, Lietkabel.	9.0
4. Timma, Ventspils	8.8
5. Gulbis, Barons k.	8.3
6. Tamm, Tarvas	8.0
7. Leonard, Juventus	7.6
8. Varnelis, Juventus	7.4
9. Lindmets, Tarvas	7.0
10. Vene, Rudupis	6.8

Assists Per Game

Zygimantas JANAVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Janavicius, Rudupis	5.8
2. Ezerskis, Liepaja	5.8
3. Campbell, Tln Kalev	5.5
4. Cunda, Valga	5.3
5. Ginevicius, Lietka.	5.0
6. Silavs, Jelgava	5.0
7. Leonard, Juventus	5.0
8. Viskontas, Juvent.	4.8
9. Artamonov, Siauliai	4.3
10. Babkauskas, Liet.	4.3

Steals Per Game

Zygimantas JANAVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Janavicius, Rudupis	2.7
2. Teel, Ventspils	2.5
3. Leppik, TU/Rock	2.5
4. Cunda, Valga	2.3
5. Mockevicius, Nagli.	2.3
6. Mizis, Jelgava	2.3
7. Sims, Ventspils	2.2
8. Kanbergs, Jelgava	2.0
9. Brown, Naglis P.	2.0
10. Babkauskas, Liet.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Darius SILINSKIS
  Nevezis
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Silinskis, Nevezis	2.5
2. Rozitis, Barons k.	1.8
3. Ramasauskas, Saka.	1.8
4. Dia, Siauliai	1.5
5. Cipruss, Lietkabel.	1.3
6. Kiausas, Sakalai	1.3
7. Matyukevych, Bars.	1.0
8. Kupsas, Lietkabelis	1.0
9. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.0
10. Meiers, Ventspils	1.0

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division II

Division II Standings

1. Kangor.-Boom		5-2
2. Excelsior		5-2
3. Gent Dragons		5-3
4. Waregem		5-3
5. Houthalen		5-3
6. Sint-Jan Ant.		5-3
7. Oudenaarde		5-3
8. CEP Fleurus		4-3
9. St-Niklase		4-3
10. Sprimont		3-4
11. Gembo BBC		3-4
12. M.Hainaut II		3-5
13. Tongeren		3-5
14. Essor Charleroi		1-6
15. Giants II		0-7

Regular Season: Round 8

Oct. 31: Houthalen - Giants II 95-66
Nov. 1: Tongeren - Kangor.-Boom 91-84
Oct. 28: Oudenaarde - Point Chaud 89-78
Oct. 28: Waregem - Excelsior 81-84
Oct. 28: Sint-Jan Ant. - Gent Dragons 80-89
Oct. 28: Essor Charleroi - Gembo BBC 72-91
Oct. 26: CEP Fleurus - St-Niklase 72-69
Oct. 26: M.Hainaut II - Houthalen 102-98
Oct. 31: St-Niklase - Gent Dragons

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

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Victor & Chiverton help Coach to top of wins chart! - by David Edole

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Double digit points from both Ray Victor (186-G, college: Warner) and Halstead Chiverton (193-G-82, college: Clinton CC (NY)) helped Warner University to a 97-69 victory over Clearwater Christian College on Tuesday night in the Turner Athletic Center.

The No. 10 Royals shot over 52% from the field in their home opener and got a big offensive performance from 10 of 12 players including Chiverton with 12 and Victor with 11.

The win improves the Royals season record to 2-0 and makes head coach Sean Hanrahan the all-time wins leader in Warner University mens basketball history.

Victor also had seven rebounds in the 21 minutes playing time as well as 2 assists and 2 steals. Chiverton played 16 minutes, shot 4 of 6 field goal attempts, 2 of 4 3 pointers and was 100% from the free throw line. Victor was 3 of 7 from the field, missed both his attempts for 3s and was 5 from 7 from his free throw attempts.

Chiverton, playing in his first game for the NAIA ranked team, also gave away a technical foul

In 2011-12, Victor saw action in 35 games, making 27 starts; he averaged 7.1 points per game, off of 249 for the season. Victor was third on the team in rebounds with 143, averaging 4.1 per game and he set career highs in total points in a game (19) and FG made (6) against the same opposition, Clearwater Christian College. His career high 10 rebounds came against Reinhardt (Ga.) on December 16, 2011 and Ave Maria (Fla.) in January of this year.

After the win, Coach Hanrahan recognized the win but found room for improvement. Its good to play a lot of minutes with a bunch of different guys early on but at the same time it can disrupt your chemistry or flow. I thought we had a great defensive start then we started getting impatient and started gambling a little bit.

The No. 10 Royals will hit the hardwood the rest of the week in preparation for their NAIA opener against Sterling College (Kan.) on Friday night. The Warriors from the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference will be making their 2012-13 debut against the Royals and tip-off will be at 7 P.M. in the Turner Athletic Center.

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

BULGARIA

Yambol let Cook go - by Maria Mitzova

Tundja Yambol released Da'Quan Cook (205-F-87, college: St.Bonaventure) two games into the season. His contract was terminated on mutual consent, after the unsuccessful two months of work together.
Da'Quan Cook's style didn't match the requirements of coach Ivan Cholakov, and despite his performance was average, he was sent away. The forward left for France, to try and find another team, while Tundja Yambol is looking urgent for his replacement.
Tundja Yambol needs a big man, to cover both power forward and center positions, as the team so far lacks height.

Balkan signed Atila Santos, released Begovic - by Maria Mitzova

Balkan Botevgrad signed an year deal with Brazilian center Atila Santos (208-C-83, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Minnesota St.). The powerful played has already been in Bulgaria, when he played for Cherno more in 2008-09.
Balkan Botevgrad has been looking for a big men to fill the space under the basket, for the whole preparation camp, and since the start of the season. The disappointing performance of Milan Bjegovic (211-C-81) led to his release, and the signing of Atila Santos.
Santos was in talks with his former team Cherno more in the summer, but both sides never agreed on a deal.

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

CANADA

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

Atlantic
1. Acadia		0-0
2. Cape Breton		0-0
3. Dalhousie		0-0
4. Memorial		0-0
5. New Brunsw.		0-0
6. St.Francis X.		0-0
7. St.Marys		0-0
8. UPEI		0-0
CanWest Pacific Division
1. Mount Royal		0-0
2. TRU		0-0
3. TWU		0-0
4. UBC		0-0
5. UBC Okanagan		0-0
6. UFV		0-0
7. UNBC		0-0
8. Victoria		0-0
CanWest Prairie Division
1. Regina		1-0
2. Alberta		0-0
3. Brandon		0-0
4. Calgary		0-0
5. Lethbridge		0-0
6. Manitoba		0-0
7. Winnipeg		0-0
8. Saskatchewan		0-1
OUA East
1. Carleton		0-0
2. Laurentian		0-0
3. Ottawa		0-0
4. Queens		0-0
5. RMC		0-0
6. Ryerson		0-0
7. Toronto Univ.		0-0
8. York		0-0
OUA West
1. Brock		0-0
2. Guelph		0-0
3. Lakehead		0-0
4. Laurier		0-0
5. McMaster		0-0
6. Waterloo		0-0
7. Western		0-0
8. Windsor		0-0
Quebec League
1. Bishops		0-0
2. Concordia		0-0
3. Laval		0-0
4. McGill		0-0
5. UQAM		0-0

Regular Season: Round 1

Nov. 1: Regina - Saskatchewan 95-90
Nov. 2: Calgary - Manitoba
Nov. 2: Lethbridge - Winnipeg
Nov. 2: Alberta - Brandon
Nov. 2: Victoria - UBC Okanagan
Nov. 2: TWU - UBC
Nov. 2: TRU - UNBC

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Frank BROWN
  Regina
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 28

1. Brown, Regina	28.0
2. Lamar, Saskatch.	28.0
3. Baker, Saskatch.	26.0
4. Forbes, Saskatch.	18.0
5. Hebert, Regina	18.0
6. Mole, Regina	14.0
7. Gareau, Regina	12.0
8. Burns, Saskatch.	11.0
9. Burns, Regina	8.0
10. Tate, Regina	4.0

Rebounds Per Game

Frank BROWN
  Regina
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 8

1. Brown, Regina	8.0
2. Burns, Saskatch.	8.0
3. Forbes, Saskatch.	7.0
4. Gareau, Regina	6.0
5. Lamar, Saskatch.	5.0
6. Baker, Saskatch.	4.0
7. Zver, Regina	3.0
8. Grujic, Regina	3.0
9. Burns, Regina	3.0
10. Tate, Regina	2.0

Assists Per Game

Darius MOLE
  Regina
  (186-G-90)
  Avg: 6

1. Mole, Regina	6.0
2. Hebert, Regina	4.0
3. Baker, Saskatch.	4.0
4. Lamar, Saskatch.	3.0
5. Gareau, Regina	2.0
6. Tate, Regina	2.0
7. Ostertag, Saskatc.	1.0
8. Burns, Regina	1.0
9. Brown, Regina	1.0
10. Nostedt, Regina	1.0

Steals Per Game

Ben BAKER
  Saskatch.
  (191-G-)
  Avg: 6

1. Baker, Saskatch.	6.0
2. Lamar, Saskatch.	3.0
3. Gareau, Regina	3.0
4. Burns, Saskatch.	3.0
5. Brown, Regina	2.0
6. Zver, Regina	2.0
7. Severinski, Saskat.	2.0
8. Augustin, Regina	2.0
9. Hebert, Regina	1.0
10. Ostertag, Saskat.	1.0

Blocks Per Game

Paul GAREAU
  Regina
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 2

1. Gareau, Regina	2.0
2. Grujic, Regina	1.0
3. Forbes, Saskatch.	1.0
4. Henry, Saskatch.	0.0
5. Foth, Saskatchewan	0.0
6. Severinski, Saskat.	0.0
7. Burns, Saskatch.	0.0
8. Ostertag, Saskatc.	0.0
9. Burns, Regina	0.0
10. Nostedt, Regina	0.0

Cougars host U of S in men's basketball home opener - by Eurobasket News

The first conference game on the 2012-13 CIS schedule features the University of Regina hosting the Saskatchewan Huskies on Thursday night at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport. Game time is scheduled for 8 p.m.

Returning four of five starters from 2011-12 and adding a promising transfer, the Cougars hope to take a step forward this season after collecting a 5-15 record over last year's conference schedule.

Leading the group of returners is forward Paul Gareau, who already has a 35-point game to his credit this season in a win over Concordia two weekends ago. Entering his final season in a Cougar uniform, Gareau will almost certainly finish among the school's all-time top ten scorers.

Fourth-year post Connor Burns (201-F) transitioned into a starting role last year as and averaged 11.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game for the Cougars. He averaged just under 30 minutes per game during the conference schedule and will likely be heavily used again at post this season.

The Cougars have mostly gone with a starting lineup through the non-conference schedule that features three guards, including returning players Brendan Hebert and Antonio Tate and junior college transfer Frank Brown.

Hebert started for the Cougars last year and had a team-leading 78 assists, while Tate joined the team for the second semester and averaged 13.6 minutes played per game off the bench. Brown was an all-conference selection for Phoenix College last season and is expected to make an immediate impact in the backcourt for the Cougars.

Also returning for the Cougars are guards Sterling Nostedt and Darius Mole, with both players seeing significant playing time coming off the bench so far this season. Nostedt enters his final season of CIS eligibility ranked seventh in school history with 113 three-pointers made in his career, while Mole served as the team's starting point guard in 2010-11 but missed all of last season while rehabbing an injury suffered during the non-conference schedule.

Medicine Hat College transfer Matthew Augustine, second-year post Vule Grujic (208-C), and first-year forward Travis Sylvestre (Michael A. Riffel HS) will also see roles off the bench for the Cougars this season. Also on the roster is second-year guard Ryan Schmidt, first-year guard Jeff Propp (Michael A. Riffel HS), second-year forward Jeremy Zver, second-year post Daniel Osiowy, and first-year guard Kyle Dudley (Balfour Collegiate).

Despite returning zero starters from last year's team, Saskatchewan comes into the weekend ranked No. 5 in this week's CIS poll after a strong performance in non-conference play. Matt Forbes, Patrick Burns, Ben Baker, and Evan Ostertag have stepped into starting roles for the Huskies, while San Diego City College transfer Stephon Lamar has made an immediate impact for Saskatchewan.

The two teams met two weeks ago in non-conference action, with Saskatchewan taking a 12-point win at the Graham Shootout in Saskatoon.

The second leg of the home-and-home series will go on Saturday night in Saskatoon.

Courtesy of: http://www.reginacougars.com

CIS Top Ten Tuesday (#9): Carleton, Windsor open at No. 1 in basketball - by Eurobasket News

OTTAWA (CIS) The reigning national champion Carleton University Ravens and University of Windsor Lancers top the first CIS mens and womens basketball rankings of the 2012-13 season, respectively.

The first CIS swimming rankings were also announced on Tuesday with Montreal (women) and Toronto (men) taking the early lead.

In other CIS sports, only mens hockey has a new national leader this week as the Saskatchewan Huskies replace UNB at No. 1. In other disciplines, Ottawa (womens soccer), York (mens soccer), Calgary (womens hockey), Trinity Western (womens volleyball), Alberta (mens volleyball) and Guelph (womens & mens cross country) all hold on to the pole position.

In mens basketball, Carleton opens at No. 1 for the seventh straight campaign and for the 10th time in the last 11 years. The Ravens claimed their record-tying eighth W.P. McGee Trophy (all in the last 10 years) last march in Halifax thanks to an 86-67 gold-medal win over Alberta. They will have a chance to become the most decorated team in CIS mens basketball history in front of their home fans this winter when they host the Final 8 in the nations capital (March 8-10).

The top-ranked Ravens, who received 43 of 44 first-place votes in the initial coaches poll, are off to a great start once again this fall with eight victories in nine pre-season contests, including a 2-1 record versus NCAA opponents and a 6-0 mark against CIS rivals. The defending champs travel south this week for two more exhibition games against U.S. schools, Villanova (Thursday) and La Salle (Friday), before opening the regular season at Windsor and Western on Nov. 9-10.

Rounding out the first Top 10 of the season are the No. 2 UBC Thunderbirds, who earned the remaining first-place nod, as well as No. 3 Acadia, No. 4 Fraser Valley, No. 5 Saskatchewan, No. 6 Lakehead, No. 7 McGill, No. 8 Cape Breton, No. 9 Windsor and No. 10 Alberta.

In womens hoops, Windsor opens at No. 1 for the second time in three years, seven months after claiming a second straight Bronze Baby Trophy thanks to a 69-53 defeat of UBC in the national final.

Like the Carleton men, the Lancers have been impressive in pre-season action with six victories in seven contests, all against CIS opponents. After winning their first five games this fall, the reigning champs split a two-game set against the Regina Cougars in Saskatchewans capital last weekend, taking the opener 69-57 and dropping a 74-63 decision in the rematch. Windsor hits the road to face Oakland University of the NCAA on Saturday in its final exhibition test before opening conference play at home against Carleton and Ottawa on Nov. 9-10.

The Lancers received 41 first-place votes in the first coaches poll of the campaign, with the other two nods going to the second-ranked Cougars, who will host this years CIS championship from March 15 to 17.

Rounding out the Top 10 are No. 3 Fraser Valley, No. 4 Carleton, No. 5 Saint Marys, No. 6 Saskatchewan, No. 7 Victoria, No. 8 Acadia, No. 9 Wilfrid Laurier and No. 10 UBC.

League play kicks off later this week in CIS mens and womens basketball with 32 games in Canada West and four matches in the AUS. Conference action gets under way a week later in the RSEQ and OUA.

WOMENS BASKETBALL
(regular season record) / votes (first-place votes) / (previous rankings)

1. Windsor (0-0) / 514 points (41) / (-)
2. Regina (0-0) / 446 (2) / (-)
3. Fraser Valley (0-0) / 429 / (-)
4. Carleton (0-0) / 393 / (-)
5. Saint Marys (0-0) / 300 / (-)
6. Saskatchewan (0-0) / 230 / (-)
7. Victoria (0-0) / 195 / (-)
8. Acadia (0-0) / 191 / (-)
9. Wilfrid Laurier (0-0) / 188 / (-)
10. UBC (0-0) / 79 / (-)

Also receiving votes: Ottawa (78), Alberta (74), Calgary (63), Laval (48).

MENS BASKETBALL
(regular season record) / votes (first-place votes) / (previous rankings)

1. Carleton (0-0) / 526 points (43) / (-)
2. UBC (0-0) / 457 (1) / (-)
3. Acadia (0-0) / 338 / (-)
4. Fraser Valley (0-0) / 320 / (-)
5. Saskatchewan (0-0) / 314 / (-)
6. Lakehead (0-0) / 313 / (-)
7. McGill (0-0) / 309 / (-)
8. Cape Breton (0-0) / 150 / (-)
9. Windsor (0-0) / 131 / (-)
10. Alberta (0-0) / 87 / (-)
Courtesy of: http://english.cis-sic.ca

Kilsyth Cobras add Kusnyer to their roster, ex Oshawa P. - by Eurobasket

Kilsyth Cobras (State League) added to their roster 26-year old American guard E.J. Kusnyer (196-86, college: Mercer). Kusnyer played last season at Oshawa Power in Canadian NBL. The 2001 summer he played at Gwinnett Majic in WBA. He helped them to win the league title. Kusnyer also played at Rotterdam Challengers in Dutch Eredivisie that season. In 11 games last year he recorded 13.9ppg and 2.3rpg.
He graduated from Mercer University in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

CHINA

AGENT ZERO CHANCE? - by Eurobasket News

After months of speculation, citing many media sources and credible outlets, the Gilbert Arenas (192-G-82, college: Arizona) tour that was suppose to begin in China this season, apparently has now stalled, to no ones immediate surprise. What once was an all star career in the NBA, has no become more of a side show, and a Where's Waldo in terms of career choices for the player once dubbed by Adidas, Agent ZERO.

After a shameful exit from the Washington Wizards, in which Arenas and another player ( who has also been banished from the NBA) were involved in a gun altercation, Arenas has stumbled in Orlando, made a short pit stop in Memphis, and neither can be coined as successful. Arena's latest act,has him flirting with the far east, specifically China, which in recent years has become a destination for former NBA stars and roster cuts.

This season McGrady Tracy (203-G/F-79) signed with perennial bottom feeder, Qingdao Double Star Eagles, and this prompted Arenas to conjure a make belief relationship with the leagues top team over the past decade, the Guandong Southern Tigers Tigers, who coincidentally signed back former NBA and Arenas' teammate from the Wizards, Yi Jianlian (212-PF-87). Around the time of Yi's signing, is when this obsession with Arenas started to fester, daily interviews and "tweets" from Arenas suggested that he was close to terms with the powerhouse from the CBA, all the while, the NBA season was fast approaching, and its aging former star was without even a training camp invite.

Arenas clearly still believes he can contribute to an NBA team, and that still may be a true, after all we are talking about a player who during a 3 year span (04-07) had season avgs of 25.5,29.3 and 28.4 ppg, and scoring a jaw dropping 60 points on a certain #8 and the Los Angeles Lakers, yet that is what makes this story even sadder, since his incident in Washington, he has become someone more known for his personality issues and off-court antics then his talent on the court, this fiasco with the Chinese team makes you understand why the NBA has distanced themselves from one of their brightest stars.

Guandong Tigers add Williams to their roster - by Eurobasket News

Guandong Southern Tigers (CBA) added to their roster 25-year old American swingman Terrence Williams (198-100kg-87, college: Louisville). Williams already started the season at Detroit Pistons in the NBA. The most of last season he spent at the Kings in NBA. In 18 games last year he recorded 8.8ppg, 4.1rpg and 3.1apg. Williams also played at the Rockets in NBA earlier that season. In 12 games he averaged 4.5ppg and 2.3rpg.
Three years ago he was drafted by New Jersey Nets (NBA) in first round (11th overall). Williams attended University of Louisville until 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.
His college team won Big East Tournament in 2009.
Williams was also voted All-Big East 1st Team back in 2009.
He has played previously professionally in NBA (Brooklyn Nets) and D-League (Springfield Armor).

By Eurobasket NEWS3 of Eurobasket.com

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Jeremiah Wilson: Helping Lead Surprise Ostrava to the Top of the NBL - by Surujh Roopnarine

Unquestionably the biggest surprise of the early going in the Mattoni NBL has been the impressive 8-1 start BK Nova Hut Ostrava. Since 2000 BK Nova Hut Ostrava has only had one top-five league finish and the only postseason success they have had of any sort has been a 1007 Czech Cup Finals appearance. That is not to say that the club does not invest into putting a good product on the court, as perennially they field a competitive mix of foreign imports as well as up-and-coming Czech talent. However this season seems to have brought together the right ingredients for a very special season. First year Head Coach Dusan Medvecky and his club received very high praise after defeating BK Decin 82-70 in Decin on Wednesday as Decin and Czech National Team Coach Pavel Buda labeled them as a team he could definitely see playing in this season's finals. The mix of veteran leadership at point guard with Rahsaan Ames (184-PG-78, college: Shaw) and youthful exuberance from Adam Ciz (190-PG-91) have mixed with the frontcourt duo of Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-88, college: Tarleton St.) and Justin Greene (203-F-89, college: Kent St.) has proven very potent. However, signaling out just one player on a team which goes nine-deep and has everyone of those nine players averaging five points per game or more is difficult. But, third-year forward Jeremiah Wilson has had just the kind of start to this season which merits noting. Wilson, 6-8, has played at an All-Star level thus far, averaging 12.3 points (second on the team), while leading BK Nova Hut Ostrava in rebounding (8.8rpg) as well as connecting on 39.1% from three-point range. After finishing his collegiate career at NCAA2 Tarleton State, the 24-year old Wilson has played in Argentina, Chile and Australia prior to moving up in level to the Czech Republic this season with BK Nova Hut Ostrava.

Q. How did the opportunity to join BK Nova Hut Ostrava come about?
A. This opportunity came as a surprise, when I found out about BK Nova Hut Ostrava I was in the process of training with the (NBDL) Texas Legends, but when my agent informed me about the chance to play in the Czech Republic in Europe I had to take advantage of this opportunity!

Q. Prior to joining BK BK Nova Hut Ostrava, what did you know about the Czech Republic and NBL?
A. I didnt know much about the NBL here in Czech, or much about the Country in general I just knew that the quality of basketball would be more competitive because its a part of Europe.

Q. What do you feel has been the key to your and the team's success so far?
A. The main reason that the team is successful so far is because of our defense! We also know the role that each of us has to play in order for our team to win. The reason that I am having a decent season so far is because of how hard I will play every game, I have to do whatever it takes for me and my team to succeed.

Q. You have had quite the journey professionally the last two seasons, from Argentina to Chile and then Australia. How have those experiences helped prepare you for this season in the Czech Republic.
A. The previous countries I have played in helped me out in all different ways, Playing in Argentina and Chile help me play alot tougher and stronger and prepared me for how physical FIBA basketball will be, while Australia helped me display alot of my offensive skills and showed me what it takes to win a Championship.

Q. Since college you've definitely developed your three-point shot more while still maintaining a proficiency for rebounding. Was this something you felt was necessary to succeed at the pro level?
A. Yes! Rebounding and Three-point Shooting has always been two of my main strengths but three-point shooting wasn't a big part of my role at Tarleton State, but I knew I would have to upgrade my shooting all-around to become a successful professional basketball player, Rebounding takes effort and thats what I like to contribute to the team.

Q. How have you adjusted to life in BK Nova Hut Ostrava? What is the biggest difference here versus living and playing in say Chile?
A. I have adjusted well so far, there really isnt that big of a difference for me in the countries except for the understanding the language, I could adapt quick to the spanish language but Czech is little harder to understand.

Q. Your expectations for the rest of the season?
A. My expectations are to keep improving as a player and a team and win a Medal for this season.

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

DENMARK

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Svendborg		9-0
2. Bakken		8-1
3. Horsens IC		6-3
4. SISU		6-3
5. Naestved		5-4
6. Aarhus BC		4-5
7. Horsholm		3-6
8. Randers		2-6
9. Vaerlose		1-7
10. Aalborg		0-9

Regular Season: Round 11

Nov. 1: Horsens IC - SISU 95-83
Nov. 1: Svendborg - Bakken 114-100
Nov. 3: Randers - Vaerlose
Nov. 3: Bakken - Horsholm

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Donald RUTHERFORD
  Svend.
  (199-F/C-87)
  Avg: 25.2

1. Rutherford, Svend.	25.2
2. Tomko, Bakken	22.8
3. Ocana, Randers	21.1
4. Willen, Aalborg	20.7
5. Thomann, Horse.	20.3
6. Bowlin, Horsens IC	19.9
7. Delaney, Aalborg	19.4
8. Darboe, Svendborg	19.2
9. Jukic, Horsens IC	19.0
10. Walker, Naestved	18.8

Rebounds Per Game

Randy DEZOUVRE
  Aarhus BC
  (195-F/G-87)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Dezouvre, Aarhus	10.4
2. Rutherford, Svend.	10.1
3. Walker, Naestved	9.2
4. Jukic, Horsens IC	8.7
5. Washington, Svend.	8.3
6. Thomann, Horse.	8.0
7. Willen, Aalborg	7.8
8. Sorensen, Aalborg	7.8
9. Moritz, SISU	7.8
10. Hesseldal, Horsho.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Skyler BOWLIN
  Horsens IC
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Bowlin, Horsens IC	6.8
2. Jonsson, Aarhus BC	6.0
3. Ortega, Randers	5.9
4. Nielsen, SISU	5.8
5. Murphy, Naestved	5.1
6. Darboe, Svendborg	4.9
7. Jakobsen, Bakken	4.7
8. Plannthin, Svend.	4.4
9. Dennis, SISU	4.1
10. Mariegaard, Svend.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Skyler BOWLIN
  Horsens IC
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Bowlin, Horsens IC	3.9
2. Ortega, Randers	2.3
3. Tomko, Bakken	2.3
4. Nielsen, SISU	2.1
5. Walker, Naestved	2.0
6. Jakobsen, Bakken	1.9
7. Jukic, Horsens IC	1.9
8. Darboe, Svendborg	1.8
9. Rungby, Horsens IC	1.7
10. Murphy, Naestved	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Gregory WASHINGTON
  Svend.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Washington, Svend.	2.3
2. Marinkovic, Horsho.	1.5
3. Christoffers., Bak.	1.3
4. Thomann, Horse.	1.2
5. Jukic, Horsens IC	1.2
6. Smith, SISU	1.0
7. Jukic, Horsholm	0.9
8. Rutherford, Svend.	0.8
9. Frandsen, Naestved	0.7
10. Ocana, Randers	0.6

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

D-LEAGUE

Ten Added to Stampede Roster - by Eurobasket News

BOISE, Idaho, October 31, 2012 - Ten players were added to the training camp roster of the Idaho Stampede, the club announced today.
Coby Karl (6-5, 215, Boise State, b. 6/8/83), Justin Holiday (6'6''-F-89, college: Washington) (6-6, 185, Washington, b. 4/5/89) and Dallas Lauderdale (6'8''-F-88, college: Ohio St.) (6-8, 255, Ohio State, b. 9/11/88) have been added to the Stampede's training camp roster as affiliate players. NBA D-League teams can protect the rights of up to three NBA affiliate teams' training camp players. The three players were Trail Blazers training camp participants prior to Portland's season-opener tonight against the Los Angeles Lakers (8:30 p.m. MST, NBA TV).

Seth Tarver (6'5''-G/F-88, college: Oregon St.) (6-5, 215, Oregon State, b. 7/1/88), Paul Carter (6-8, 200, Illinois-Chicago, b. 6/2/87), Reggie Larry (6-6, 225, Boise State, b. 10/20/86) and Jason Ellis (6-7, 200, Boise State, b. 12/15/82) were all added to the team's training camp roster as returning players who all competed for the Stampede last season.

Jared Cunningham (6-9, 235, Cleveland State, b. 3/6/89), Darren Cooper (6'3''-G-83, college: Portland) (6-3, 180, University of Portland, b. 7/9/83) and Brent Jennings (6-5, 200, Southern Polytechnic State, b. 7/4/88) were also added to the Stampede's training camp roster as local tryout players who tried out in either Portland, Ore. or Boise, Idaho earlier this fall.

The Stampede will also draft players when the organization hosts an NBA D-League Draft party at Legends Pub and Grill on Friday, November 2 at 4:30 p.m. Media and fans are encouraged to attend, enjoy food and drink specials, and meet members of the Stampede basketball operations staff and front office. The Stampede owns seven picks in the eight-round draft, including the third overall selection.

Stampede training camp is scheduled to start November 12 in advance of the team's first game on November 28 at Los Angeles. The Stampede open up the home slate on December 7 vs. Austin at 7 p.m. for a special night, Heroes at the Hardwood presented by Pioneer Federal Credit Union. The team will honor and celebrate active duty and veteran military personnel and their families.

About the Idaho Stampede Season tickets for the Idaho Stampede 2012-13 season are available NOW! Run with the Stampede and call (208) 388-4667 today for more information.

NBA Development League The NBA Development League, founded in 2001, is the NBA's official minor league whose teams have direct affiliations to NBA franchises. For the 2011-12 season, the league featured 16 teams - including the debut of the Canton Charge. In fostering the league's connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA D-League Cares programs. The NBA D-League also advances the game of basketball as the research and development arm of the NBA. All NBA D-League games are on NBA Futurecast, the free live Web-streaming initiative found at nba.com/futurecast.
Courtesy of: http://www.oursportscentral.com

D-Fenders Announce 2012-13 Coaching and Training Staff - by Eurobasket News

EL SEGUNDO - The Los Angeles D-Fenders have retained Conner Henry , Phil Hubbard and Larry Lewis as assistant coaches on Reggie Theus' staff, it was announced today. In addition, Head Athletic Trainer Nina Hsieh and Video Coordinator Will Scott have rejoined the D-Fenders for the 2012-13 season.
Henry enters into his second season with the D-Fenders after coming to the team as an assistant coach in 2011. Most recently, Henry served as an assistant on the NBA D-League Select Team at the 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Prior to coaching the D-Fenders, Henry spent four seasons in the Australian National Basketball League an assistant coach for the Sydney Kings (2010-11) and as head and assistant coach (2008-09; 2006-08) for the Perth Wildcats. A Claremont, Calif. native, Henry, who played 10 seasons of professional basketball, earned his spot in the coaching ranks working for his hometown Claremont McKenna College as an assistant (2001-06). A 6'7" shooting guard out of UC Santa Barbara, Henry played two seasons in the NBA for four franchises (Houston, Boston, Milwaukee, Sacramento) along with 10 seasons in the Continental Basketball Association and Europe.

Hubbard, who brings a combined 31 years of professional basketball experience to Los Angeles, returns for his second season with the D-Fenders and third NBA D-League season overall. Most recently, Hubbard coached Caneros De La Romana of the Dominican Republic to a championship and worked as an assistant coach on the NBA D-League Select Team. Before signing with the D-Fenders, the Ohio native aided in player development for the Chinese Junior National Team and operated as an assistant for the Dongguan Leopards in China. In 2010-11, Hubbard began coaching in the D-League with Reno after working as an NBA assistant in Washington for six seasons (2003-09). While with the Wizards, Hubbard helped the team register a 197-224 record, earn their highest win total (45) in 25 years, and reach postseason for the first time since 1996-97. Assuming his role with the Wizards after spending eight total years as an assistant with Golden State (1998-2003) and Atlanta (1995-98), Hubbard also spent five years as scouting coordinator for the New York Knicks (1990-95) shortly after finishing his NBA playing career. Selected out of Michigan University with the 15th overall pick in the 1979 NBA Draft, Hubbard played 10 seasons in the NBA with Cleveland and Detroit, averaging 10.9 points and 5.3 rebounds in 665 career games.

Lewis, a Los Angeles native and graduate of Morehouse College, begins his second season with the D-Fenders and first as assistant coach after acting as player development coach during the 2011-12 campaign. Moreover, in his young coaching career, Lewis earned a spot as an assistant on the NBA D-League Select Team in 2012. Prior to coaching, Lewis, a 6'7" forward, played internationally in Argentina (2011), Spain (2001-2011), Japan (1996-2001), Cyprus (1996), Great Britain (1993) and the Dominican Republic (1992). Furthermore, Lewis spent a season in the United States Basketball League with Sarasota (1996), in the CBA with the Rapid City Thrillers (1994-95), and for Team USA (1995) in the Pan American Games where he won a silver medal.

Entering into her fourth season with the D-Fenders as Head Athletic Trainer, Hsieh has totaled 11 years of athletic training experience. In her role with the D-Fenders, Hsieh monitors the health of the players and is responsible for injury prevention, care and treatment. Before coming to the D-Fenders, the Huntington Beach, Calif. native functioned as athletic trainer for the UC Santa Barbara men's soccer team (2010-11) along with the women's basketball team (2004-08). Hsieh is a graduate from Cal State Fullerton (B.S., Kinesiology, 2000) and the Arizona School of Health Sciences (M.S., Sports Health Care, 2003).

Scott, at just 23 years old, moves into his second season as the D-Fenders video coordinator. Working as student manager at Indiana University from 2009-11 under current head coach Tom Crean, Scott acted as an assistant to the entire coaching staff on a day-to-day basis and held an array of responsibilities such as video editing, supporting practice drills and aiding with in-game operations. A graduate of Indiana, Scott has a degree in Sports Marketing and Management along with a minor in Business.

Henry, Hubbard, Lewis, Hsieh and Scott were each key figures during the D-Fenders record-breaking 2011-12 season in which the team won an NBA Development League record 38 games, earned a trip to the NBA D-League Finals, and totaled eight NBA Call-Ups en route to the Development Champion award.
Courtesy of: http://www.oursportscentral.com

Santa Cruz Warriors Acquire 3rd-Round Draft Pick in 2013 D-League Draft - by Eurobasket News

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. - The Santa Cruz Warriors have acquired a third-round draft pick in the 2013 NBA D-League Draft from the Fort Wayne Mad Ants in exchange for forward Tommy Smith (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Arizona St.).
Smith was awarded a Santa Cruz Warriors training camp roster spot earlier today as a returning player. In the 2011-2012 season, the 6'10'' forward averaged 7.8 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 38 games with the Dakota Wizards.
Courtesy of: http://www.oursportscentral.com

Darko Rajakovic is the new head coach of Tulsa 66ers as first European ever to coach American pro team - by Eurobasket

INVICTUS Sports Group is very glad to announce an historical event: Darko Rajakovic (agency: INVICTUS Sports Group ) will be the first European head coach ever to lead an American basketball team! He just joined the NBA Finalist Oklahoma City Thunder to work together with the technical staff during the 2012/2013 pre-season, then starting from November he will be the head coach of the Tulsa 66ers, the second team of OKC. There have already been European coaches to make the role of assistants in NBA or college basketball teams, but it will be the first time for an European coach to be charged of the role of head coach in the United States. For sure, this opportunity came to Darko because of the important experience that he made in America in the past years, studying and learning basketball coaching in particular from Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) and Lute Olson (University of Arizona), then working some seasons for the San Antonio Spurs as scouting consultant since 2004 and as assistant coach at the NBA Summer League 2006. He also worked in a lot of important international tournaments and events, like Basketball Without Borders, NBA and Fiba Camp and the Eurocamp in Treviso, Italy, in 2003 and 2004, as well as other prestigious basketball camps in Serbia, Greece, Spain and Italy. Hardworking, dedicated and high educated - he speaks Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian language as native, but also excellent English and Spanish and basic Greek language - he is a very young but already experienced coach. Born on February 22nd 1979 in Serbia, Darko Rajakovic is highly motivated and ambitious with capability of individual and team working, he also has strong communication and motivation skills and is specialized for player development. In the last three seasons he was the head coach of Espacio Torrelodones in the Spanish EBA League, leading a very young group to positive results. His basketball coaching career started when he was only 16 years old, as the youngest coach ever in the history of BC Borac Cacak, and since 2007 and 2009 he also led the Basketball Academy for Individual Workouts in Belgrade - after graduating in Basketball Coach and Sports Management. At the age of 19 he joined Red Star Belgrade as the (youngest, again) coach of the Under 20 and Under 18 team. During the 8 years spent with Red Star, he won the State and National Youth Championship titles twice, specializing in working with young players, but also assisting the head coach of the senior team in pre-season. During the month of October, Darko worked with the technical staff of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and now this is a fundamental step in his career, as well as in the "basketball network" of INVICTUS Sports Group between Europe, Russia and America.

SAM PRESTI: "DARKO BRING US THE EUROPEAN INFLUENCE"

In the official press release announcing that Darko Rajakovic is the new head coach of the Tulsa 66ers in D-League for the 2012/2013 season starting on November 23rd, the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Sam Presti commented this historical decision: We are pleased to welcome Darko to the Thunder organization, we value his diverse basketball background and embrace the European influence that he will have on our development program in Tulsa. It's not a case that previously in his career Sam Presti had a very important role in the organization of the San Antonio Spurs, the first team to believe and invest in creating a strong connection between NBA and European basketball. In the same way, Darko collaborated for years with the Spurs organization, studying and learning basketball coaching in particular from Gregg Popovich, then working as scout consultant for the Spurs since 2004 and as assistant coach at the NBA Summer League 2006.

ZORAN SAVIC: INVICTUS WILL FOCUS IN CREATING NEW OPPORTUNITIES BETWEEN USA AND EUROPEAN BASKETBALL

The President of INVICTUS Sports Group, Zoran Savic expressed his deep satisfaction for the joining of Darko Rajakovic to the Tulsa 66ers in the important and historical role of head coach: This is a very important step for European basketball. After the experience made last season by Ettore Messina working with coach Mike Brown in the technical staff of the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA, this represent one more step forward: for the first time ever, an European head coach will lead a basketball team in the USA. For sure the longtime collaboration of Darko with the San Antonio Spurs, directly collaborating with Sam Presti, played a decisive role in this decision. In the same time, this is one more confirmation that the connection between NBA and European basketball is becoming stronger and stronger in both directions, and for this reason in the next months INVICTUS Sports Group will focus its work also to develop this connection and create new opportunities.

Courtesy of invictussportsgroup.com

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

EL SALVADOR

Standings - Liga Superior

D1 Standings

1. San Marcos		12-1
2. UTEC		11-3
3. Denver		9-4
4. ExSAL		8-6
5. Chaleco		5-9
6. Roll Royce		4-9
7. Leones		4-10
8. Delgadense		1-12

Win s for Leones, Denver and UTEC - by Jaime Arevalo

On tuesday night, Leones came out winners from an hard fight vs Chaleco by only one point (58-57) and UTEC largely prevailed over ExSAL (97-77)
Nestor Montalvo (G) scored 15 points in the firsdt game, to be teh top performer in Leones. Eduardo Garcia (191-F-88) added 14 pts at the winning side, another time more Bartel Lopez (212-C-89) was the best in Chaleco at 18.
Veteran Julio Mancia (202-C-80) was the top scorer in UTEC, with 21 points. David Johnson (193-F-85, college: SE Missouri St.) added 17, Martin Ignacio Ramos (170-PG-92) scored 30 pts in a great losing effor for ExSal.
The night before, Denver had defeated Delgadense, 89-55 led by Panamanian Ruben Dario Gotti (195-F-72), who scored 16 pts in his debut. Carlos Alas (181-G-79) added 14 and Bob Hunter (193-F-76) 12 in Denver, the best in Delgadense were Marlon Bonilla (F) at 22 and Kevin Hernandez at 18.
With only two games to be played to end regular season, the standings are here down:

1. SAN MARCOS 12-1
2. UTEC 11-3
3. DENVER 9-4
4. EXSAL 8-6
5. CHALECO 5-9
6. LEONES 4-10
7. ROLL ROYCE 4-9
8. DELGADENCE-UES 1-12

The first four teams advanced to playoffs, the pairings will be San Marcos-ExSal and Denver-UTEC, The series will be best of three games.

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. TU/Rock		5-0
2. Tarvas		3-1
3. Valga		3-2
4. Kalev/Cramo		2-1
5. TTU		2-2
6. Hito/Johvi		1-3
7. Rapla		1-3
8. Parnu		1-3
9. Tln Kalev		0-3

Regular Season: Round 5

Nov. 1: Kalev/Cramo - Hito/Johvi 104-58
Nov. 3: Hito/Johvi - Tln Kalev
Nov. 5: Kalev/Cramo - Valga
Nov. 6: Valga - Rapla
Nov. 7: Tln Kalev - Tarvas

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 19.8

1. Tamm, Tarvas	19.8
2. Campbell, Tln Kalev	18.7
3. Ingram, TU/Rock	17.8
4. Laksa, Tarvas	17.8
5. Umbrasko, Tarvas	16.5
6. Arnold, TTU	15.5
7. Evart, Parnu	14.8
8. Laur, Hito/Johvi	14.8
9. Oja, Valga	14.2
10. Keedus, TTU	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 14.8

1. Raadik, Parnu	14.8
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	11.0
3. Grim, Valga	10.0
4. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	9.0
5. Lindmets, Tarvas	8.3
6. Arnold, TTU	7.8
7. Elegar, Kalev/Cr.	7.7
8. Cunda, Valga	7.4
9. Trumm, Hito/Johvi	7.3
10. Keedus, TTU	7.0

Assists Per Game

Marc CAMPBELL
  Tln Kalev
  (180-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Campbell, Tln Kalev	5.3
2. Ingram, TU/Rock	5.2
3. Cunda, Valga	5.0
4. Tamm, Tarvas	5.0
5. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo	4.7
6. Peciukeviciu., Par.	4.5
7. Keedus, TTU	4.0
8. Laane, Rapla	3.3
9. Dorbek, Kalev/Cr.	3.3
10. McLeod, Kalev/Cr.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 4

1. Tamm, Tarvas	4.0
2. Akenparg, TTU	2.8
3. Saage, TU/Rock	2.6
4. Laane, Rapla	2.0
5. Laksa, Tarvas	2.0
6. Ingram, TU/Rock	2.0
7. Lindmets, Tarvas	1.8
8. Elegar, Kalev/Cr.	1.7
9. McLeod, Kalev/Cr.	1.7
10. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (217-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	1.7
2. Arnold, TTU	1.3
3. Grim, Valga	1.2
4. Raadik, Parnu	0.8
5. Laksa, Tarvas	0.8
6. Makke, TTU	0.8
7. Saks, Tarvas	0.8
8. Elegar, Kalev/Cr.	0.7
9. Ringmets, Rapla	0.5
10. Grafs, Valga	0.5

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

EUROLEAGUE

Standings

Euroleague Standings

Group A
1. Real Madrid			3-1
2. Fener.Ulker			3-1
3. Panathinaikos			2-2
4. Khimky			1-2
5. Union Olimpija			1-2
6. Cantu			1-3
Group B
1. Maccabi T-A			4-0
2. Unicaja			3-1
3. ALBA			2-2
4. Chalon			1-2
5. Asseco Prok.			1-3
6. Montepaschi			0-3
Group C
1. Zalgiris			4-0
2. Anadolu Efes			3-1
3. EA7 Armani			2-2
4. Olympiacos			1-2
5. Caja Laboral			1-3
6. Cedevita			0-3
Group D
1. FCB Regal			4-0
2. CSKA			3-0
3. Besiktas			2-1
4. Lietuvos rytas			1-2
5. Brose Baskets			0-3
6. Partizan			0-4

Regular Season: Round 4

Nov. 1: Real Madrid - Cantu 80-66
Nov. 1: Fener.Ulker - Panathinaikos 73-64
Nov. 2: Khimky - Union Olimpija

Nov. 1: Maccabi T-A - Asseco Prok. 93-62
Nov. 1: Unicaja - ALBA 67-62
Nov. 2: Montepaschi - Chalon

Nov. 1: Zalgiris - EA7 Armani 92-87
Nov. 1: Caja Laboral - Anadolu Efes 64-76
Nov. 2: Olympiacos - Cedevita

Nov. 1: FCB Regal - Partizan 85-82
Nov. 2: Besiktas - CSKA
Nov. 2: Brose Baskets - Lietuvos rytas

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Sonny WEEMS
  CSKA
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Weems, CSKA	20.3
2. Jerrells, Besiktas	20.0
3. Farmar, Anadolu	19.0
4. Fernandez, Real M.	18.3
5. Langford, EA7 A.	17.5
6. Nachbar, Brose B.	17.3
7. Aradori, Cantu	16.0
8. Bourousis, EA7 A.	15.5
9. Calloway, Unicaja	15.5
10. Thompson, ALBA	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Aaron BAYNES
  Union O.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10

1. Baynes, Union O.	10.0
2. Williams, Chalon	8.7
3. Sanikidze, Montepa.	8.7
4. Khryapa, CSKA	7.7
5. Hines, Olympiacos	7.7
6. Kasun, Montepaschi	7.3
7. Bourousis, EA7 A.	7.0
8. Bjelica, Caja Labo.	7.0
9. Jean-B., Chalon	6.7
10. Farmar, Anadolu	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jerel BLASSINGAME
  Asseco P.
  (175-PG-81)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Blassingame, Assec.	8.3
2. Planinic, Khimky	7.3
3. Cook, EA7 Armani	6.8
4. Farmar, Anadolu	5.8
5. Diamantidis, Panat.	5.3
6. Spanoulis, Olympia.	5.3
7. Tchicamboud, Cha.	5.3
8. Waters, Union O.	5.0
9. Brown, Montepaschi	4.7
10. Green, Cedevita	4.7

Steals Per Game

Ricky HICKMAN
  Maccabi .
  (189-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Hickman, Maccabi	2.8
2. Gordon, Anadolu	2.5
3. McCalebb, Fener.Ul.	2.3
4. Draper, Real M.	2.3
5. Seibutis, Lietuv.	2.0
6. Spanoulis, Olympia.	2.0
7. Green, Cedevita	2.0
8. Fernandez, Real M.	2.0
9. Jaaber, Zalgiris	2.0
10. Schilb, Chalon	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Stephane LASME
  Panathin.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Lasme, Panathin.	2.3
2. Krstic, CSKA	2.0
3. James, Maccabi T-A	1.8
4. Falker, Besiktas	1.7
5. Cusin, Cantu	1.5
6. Tomic, FCB Regal	1.3
7. Samardziski, Lietu.	1.3
8. Kasun, Montepaschi	1.3
9. Zoric, Unicaja	1.3
10. Thompson, ALBA	1.0

Olympiacos ink Josh Powell - by Eurobasket News

Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (A1) agreed terms with 29-year old USA international forward Josh Powell (206-102kg-83, college: North Carolina State). He already started the season at San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. The last summer Powell also played at Brujos in Puerto Rican BSN. In 14 games he had very impressive stats: 16.1ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.1apg and 1.3bpg. The other team he played shortly was Union Neuchatel Basket in Swiss LNB. Another team Powell played that season for was Liaoning Hunters in Chinese CBA. In 32 games last season he recorded also great stats: 16.7ppg and 8.3rpg.
He was voted All-WBA 2nd Team back in 2004.
He is quite experienced player. Powell has played also professionally in Italy, Russia, NBA (Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, LA Clippers, LA Lakers and Indiana Pacers) and D-League (Fort Worth Flyers).
He attended North Carolina State until 2003 and it will be his tenth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

FINLAND

Standings - Division I

1st Standings

Division A
1. Porvoon Tarmo		5-0
2. ToPo		3-2
3. BC Nokia		2-1
4. Oulun NMKY		2-2
5. SayRi		2-2
6. Tapiolan Honka		2-2
7. Huima		2-3
8. Pyrinto II		2-3
9. Ura Basket		0-5
Division B
1. TuNMKY		4-1
2. Kerava ET		3-2
3. HBA-Marsky		3-2
4. JyWe		3-2
5. KaU Koris		3-2
6. Jarvenpaa		2-3
7. BC Jyvaskyla		1-4
8. Espoo Basket		1-4

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 1: Pyrinto II - Huima 93-98
Nov. 2: SayRi - Tapiolan Honka
Nov. 2: BC Nokia - ToPo
Nov. 2: Oulun NMKY - Porvoon Tarmo

Nov. 2: Kerava ET - Espoo Basket
Nov. 2: TuNMKY - Jarvenpaa
Nov. 3: Jarvenpaa - KaU Koris
Nov. 3: HBA-Marsky - BC Jyvaskyla

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Nolan RICHARDSON
  Ura B.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 34.4

1. Richardson, Ura B.	34.4
2. Moultrie, BC Nokia	30.3
3. Collins, SayRi	24.8
4. Brennan, Tapiolan.	24.3
5. Pyykkonen, JyWe	22.0
6. Salminen, TuNM.	22.0
7. Clark, Tapiolan Ho.	21.8
8. Young, Porvoon	21.8
9. Towa, Kerava ET	21.2
10. Coleman, Oulun N.	20.5

Rebounds Per Game

Brian MOULTRIE
  BC Nokia
  (198-C/F-87)
  Avg: 17.3

1. Moultrie, BC Nokia	17.3
2. Towa, Kerava ET	13.4
3. Syrjala, KaU Koris	13.0
4. Stephens, Huima	12.4
5. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.	12.0
6. Keskitalo, JyWe	11.6
7. Brennan, Tapiolan.	11.0
8. Young, Porvoon	11.0
9. Salminen, TuNM.	10.8
10. Mua, Kerava ET	10.2

Assists Per Game

Jarkko KYLLONEN
  Porvoon .
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Kyllonen, Porvoon	5.4
2. Juvonen, Kerava ET	4.7
3. Jarvinen, Tapiol.	4.7
4. Riihela, BC Nokia	4.3
5. Harjula, Pyrinto II	4.0
6. Niemisto, HBA-M.	4.0
7. Russell, Oulun N.	3.8
8. Herrala, HBA-M.	3.6
9. Vaananen, Pyrin.	3.6
10. Ginty, ToPo	3.2

Steals Per Game

La Trice LITTLE
  Kerava ET
  (187-G-79)
  Avg: 4.4

1. Little, Kerava ET	4.4
2. Thomas, SayRi	2.5
3. Russell, Oulun N.	2.5
4. Michelsen, HBA-M.	2.3
5. Mua, Kerava ET	2.2
6. Richardson, Ura B.	2.2
7. Andersen, Espoo B.	2.2
8. Herrala, HBA-M.	2.0
9. Tarjanne, Jarvenpaa	1.8
10. Moultrie, BC Nokia	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jari PULKKINEN
  Pyrin.
  (203-PF-84)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.	3.4
2. Keskitalo, JyWe	2.4
3. Young, Porvoon	2.2
4. Mua, Kerava ET	1.4
5. Nuolivirta, HBA-M.	1.2
6. Stephens, Huima	1.2
7. Suotamo, Espoo B.	1.2
8. Brennan, Tapiolan.	1.0
9. Immonen, TuNM.	1.0
10. Markkanen, BC Jy.	1.0

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

FRANCE

Standings - N1

NM1 Standings

1. Blois		5-0
2. Cognac		5-0
3. Souffel		5-0
4. Orchy		4-0
5. Quimper		4-1
6. Angers BC 49		3-2
7. St Chamond		3-2
8. Vichy		3-3
9. Monaco		2-2
10. Rennes		2-4
11. Challans		1-4
12. Sorgues		1-4
13. Rueil		1-4
14. Chartres		1-5
15. La Rochelle		1-5
16. CFBB		0-5

Regular Season: Round 7

Nov. 3: Sorgues - Challans
Nov. 3: Cognac - St Chamond
Nov. 3: La Rochelle - Orchy
Nov. 3: Lievin - Blois
Nov. 3: Vichy - Quimper
Nov. 3: Rennes - Angers BC 49
Nov. 3: CFBB - Monaco
Nov. 3: Chartres - Roche
Nov. 3: Rueil - Souffel

Bryant Smith joins Le Havre - by Eurobasket News

Le Havre strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Bryant Smith (196-SF-77, agency: SportsTalent, college: Auburn). The forward signed a one-year contract. Last season Bryant Smith spent with Chalon. He tallied 3.0 points, 1.5 boards and 1.5 assists per game in EuroCup Qualification. In EuroChallenge the forward delivered 2.4 points per appearance. Bryant Smith also delivered 3.6 points and 1.5 rebounds per appearance in ProA. Previously Bryant Smith had spells in Cyprus, Venezuela, Italy, Bulgaria and CBA. He was named All-Bulgarian League Best Player of the Year in 2004. He was also trumped All-Cyprus League MVP in 2002. Bryant Smith was named All-Cyprus League Import Player of the Year in 2008.

Aurelien Toto NKote is a newcomer at St Vallier - by Eurobasket

Saint Vallier Basket Drome (ProB) strengthened their roster with addition of 33-year old forward Aurelien Toto NKote (194-79). He moved there from Union Al Roche - Case Metropole Basket (NM1). In 30 games last season he recorded 11.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.3apg and 2.2spg (in top 2).
He was selected to French N1 All-Star Game back in 2006,2007 and 2008.
Toto NKote has played previously for five other French teams: Aix-Maurienne, Fos Ouest, Pont de Beauvoisin, Quimper UJAP and Le Portel.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Aurelien Toto NKote is a newcomer at St Vallier - by Eurobasket

Saint Vallier Basket Drome (ProB) strengthened their roster with addition of 33-year old forward Aurelien Toto NKote (194-79). He moved there from Union Al Roche - Case Metropole Basket (NM1). In 30 games last season he recorded 11.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.3apg and 2.2spg (in top 2).
He was selected to French N1 All-Star Game back in 2006,2007 and 2008.
Toto NKote has played previously for five other French teams: Aix-Maurienne, Fos Ouest, Pont de Beauvoisin, Quimper UJAP and Le Portel.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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

GERMANY

Standings - Pro B

ProB Standings

Group North
1. Rist Wedel		5-0
2. Schwelm		5-0
3. Herten Lions		4-1
4. BSW Sixers		3-2
5. Wulfen		2-3
6. Dorsten		2-3
7. Hannover		2-3
8. SU Medien		2-3
9. Oldenburg		2-3
10. Recklinghausen		2-3
11. MTV Wolfenbuettel		1-4
12. Stahnsdorf		0-5
Group South
1. Dragons		6-0
2. Hanau		4-1
3. Weissenhorn		4-1
4. Fraport SKY II		3-2
5. Langen		3-2
6. Leitershofen		3-2
7. Licher Baeren		2-3
8. Noerdlingen		2-3
9. Dresden		2-4
10. Bayer Giants		1-4
11. Konstanz		1-4
12. TSV Troester		0-5

Regular Season: Round 6

North

Nov. 3: Rist Wedel - Wulfen
Nov. 3: Recklinghausen - SU Medien
Nov. 3: Schwelm - Herten Lions
Nov. 3: BSW Sixers - Stahnsdorf
Nov. 3: Oldenburg - Dorsten
Nov. 3: Hannover - MTV Wolfenbuettel

South

Nov. 1: Dresden - Dragons 83-87
Nov. 3: Fraport SKY II - Langen
Nov. 3: Licher Baeren - Konstanz
Nov. 3: Hanau - Weissenhorn
Nov. 3: Noerdlingen - Leitershofen
Nov. 3: Bayer Giants - TSV Troester

EuroLeague: Unicaja extinguish ALBA in Malaga - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja - ALBA 67:62

Unicaja nailed a home win over ALBA in the fourth round of EuroLeague. The Spaniards improved thus at 3-1 record in Group B. Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) finished with 14 points to lead the home side.
Unicaja dropped 22 points in the opening quarter to take a 6-point lead. ALBA reacted with more aggressive defence in the second quarter. The German team limited the hosts to 7 points in the period to secure a 34:29 halftime lead. Unicaja used a 6:0 run midway through the third term to regain the lead. They entered the fourth quarter up by 4 points 47:43. Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) and Schaffartik gave ALBA a 51:50 lead midway through the final stanza. However Unicaja immediately spurred in front and rolled to the victory. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) netted 12 points, while Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) had 9 points in the victory. Deon Thompson answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for ALBA. Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) netted 14 points in the loss.

Unicaja: Earl Calloway 14, Krunoslav Simon 12, Augusto Cesar Lima 9
ALBA: Deon Thompson 17, Heiko Schaffartzik 14

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

GREECE

Aris sign Giorgos Tsiaras - by George Fragkos

Their bad start at A1 made Aris Thessaloniki make one more addition to their roster. Giorgos Tsiaras (207-C/F-82) the Greek 29-year-old forward who was a member of Armani Milano decided to leave Italy and signed for the club from Thessaloniki. The reason of this decision was definitely the fact that he did not get a single minute of playing time with the Italian title contenders and he did not appear to be in the team's game plan.

Tsiaras made very good appearances with Ikaros Kallitheas during the previous season and this made Armani offer him a contract. However, the Greek forward failed to impress his coach and did not even get opportunity to participate in a game of his team. Since the Italians did not seem to need Tsiaras and the player did not want to be a member of a team without playing, this proposal from Aris was a solution for both sides.

Aris is the 6th Greek team in Giorgos Tsiaras' s career. In the past he has played for AEK, Olimpia Larisas, PAOK, Panionios and Ikaros Kallitheas making quite good appearances with all of them and for sure Aris needed a forward with his experience.

A.G.O Rethymno Aegean signs Cliff Colimon - by Eurobasket News

A.G.O Rethymno Aegean (A1) signed 23-year old American point guard Cliff Colimon (182-89, college: E.Washington). Colimon already started the season at Aris (A1). The last season he also played at Eastern Washington University in Big Sky Conference in the NCAA. In 32 games last year he had very impressive stats: 16.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 5.0apg and 1.6spg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Quite impressive season as he was named to All-Big Sky Conf. 1st Team, Big Sky Conf. All-Tournament Team and Big Sky Conf. All-Tournament Team.
Colimon just graduated from Eastern Washington University and it is his first season as a pro.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @Eurohoopsnet)

Olympiacos ink Josh Powell - by Eurobasket News

Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (A1) agreed terms with 29-year old USA international forward Josh Powell (206-102kg-83, college: North Carolina State). He already started the season at San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. The last summer Powell also played at Brujos in Puerto Rican BSN. In 14 games he had very impressive stats: 16.1ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.1apg and 1.3bpg. The other team he played shortly was Union Neuchatel Basket in Swiss LNB. Another team Powell played that season for was Liaoning Hunters in Chinese CBA. In 32 games last season he recorded also great stats: 16.7ppg and 8.3rpg.
He was voted All-WBA 2nd Team back in 2004.
He is quite experienced player. Powell has played also professionally in Italy, Russia, NBA (Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks, LA Clippers, LA Lakers and Indiana Pacers) and D-League (Fort Worth Flyers).
He attended North Carolina State until 2003 and it will be his tenth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

EuroLeague: Fenerbahce hold off Panathinaikos - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce - Panathinaikos 73:64

Fenerbahce registered the third win in EuroLeague Group A. They toppled visiting Panathinaikos tonight. Panathinaikos fell at 2-2 record after the defeat. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) and Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) provided 13 points each to lead the winners.
Fenerbahce eked out a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts cleared off in the second quarter. The Turkish team went on a 23:12 run to take a 13-point lead at the intermission. The hosts kept defensive pressure on the Greek team after the big break. Fenerbahce limited the Greens to 12 points in the period to take a 17-point advantage into the fourth stanza. Panathinaikos erupted for 23 points in the final stanza but could not rescue the game losing it at the end. Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) notched 12 points and 7 rebounds for Fenerbahce. Jonas Maciulis (199-F/G-85) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Panathinaikos. Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) produced 12 points in the loss.

Fenerbahce: Bojan Bogdanovic 13, Bo McCalebb 13, Ilkan Karaman 12
Panathinaikos: Jonas Maciulis 14+10 boards, Dimitris Diamantidis 12

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

HOLLAND

Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Standings

1. Den Bosch		5-0
2. Groningen		4-1
3. Leiden		4-1
4. M.Magixx		3-2
5. Zwolle		3-2
6. Leeuwarden		2-3
7. Den Helder K.		2-3
8. Rotterdam		1-4
9. Weert		1-4
10. Amsterdam		0-5

Regular Season: Round 5

Nov. 1: Den Bosch - Den Helder K. 73-54
Nov. 3: Leiden - Weert
Nov. 3: Rotterdam - Zwolle
Nov. 3: Den Helder K. - Groningen
Nov. 3: Leeuwarden - M.Magixx

Zack Novak on leadership, Mitch McGary, Zwolle and his new T-shirt - by Ermay Duran

Michigans captain for the last three seasons, Zack Novak (193-G-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan), is the most notable face missing on the 2012-13 Michigan roster but the 6-foot-4 guard landed overseas in Holland playing professional basketball for Landstede Basketbal Zwolle.

We caught up with Zack Novak to discuss the upcoming season, the program that he left behind, Mitch McGary and most importantly a new t-shirt that hes selling this season.

Everyone wants to know about leadership. Who do you think captains this years team and do you think leadership should be a concern?
I think many people are worried about the leadership because of what happened in the 09-10 season after the departures of CJ (Lee) and Dave (Merritt). This is a totally different situation, though. Coach B had only been in Ann Arbor for two seasons and the culture was nowhere near set in stone at that point. All of the players on the roster now only know one way to do things. The coaching staff has put a ton of emphasis on establishing what exactly it means to be a basketball player at the University of Michigan with their core values: Unity, Passion, Appreciation, Diligence and Integrity. I have no idea who will be named captain, but I do know that every returning player on this team knows the right way to do things. From the reports I get, the freshmen are extremely receptive to the culture around them and are buying in. Without being around the team every day, its impossible to throw out names, but Im not very concerned about it. The guys know the potential they have this year and I believe they will all be focused on the right things.

Mitch McGary has been described as a bigger version of you. Both coming from Chesterton, what do you see Mitch contributing this year?
Whenever I think of Mitch McGary, I cant help but chuckle to myself. Ive known Mitch since he was about 9 years old playing up a year in Little League baseball. Im not sure everyone realizes that Mitch was actually a freshman on my high school team during my senior year because he took his prep year. That kid has grown so much not only as a basketball player, but as a person over the past five years. I joke with him a lot telling him he copied me because when he was younger he was not the madman he is today. I watch him play now and I do see a lot of myself in terms of intangible qualities. Thankfully for all of the fans (which I am now too), hes 611 with those qualities and not 64! Finally, we have a four man with some size. About time.

The other hot topic this season is playing with two posts. For all intents and purposes you were Michigans power forward for the last year. How do you see the four spot playing out this year with so many different styles of players and options, none of which are really a true stretch four like weve seen under Beilein.
This is an interesting one. I think the team has a couple of great options here. With Trey being as good as he is, the coaches tooled with the offense to get him in more ball screen situations. That trend started with Darius and picked up even more last year. My freshman and sophomore years, we did not set hardly as many ball screens because our personnel didnt call for that. My point is that Coach B has shown his willingness and ability to tweak the offense in order to fit the tools at his disposal. I think you will definitely see two post line ups this year if for no other reason than the amount of depth that they suddenly find themselves with in the front court. We struggled on the glass at times in the past, but with two bigs that shouldnt be an issue any more. All of that being said, I wouldnt expect the 4 guard line up to be completely scrapped either. G Rob (Glenn Robinson III) is more than capable of playing the 4 and also a huge upgrade over yours truly on the glass. I get a kick out of everyone making a fuss about natural positions. In a 2 guard offense there are three positions, not five. We run 2 guard here in Holland and Im now at my natural position playing the 3 and I feel absolutely zero difference. Defensively, there are so many switching patterns that you end up guarding almost everyone else anyways. I even think Tim is versatile enough to play the 4 position in a pinch. I think he would have a much easier time guarding the opposing 4 men in the Big 10 than they would have guarding him.

Shooters. You, Stu and Evan were a significant chunk of the three point shooting attack last year, will this team have a deficiency of shooting options?
This is a two part answer. First, I dont think there will be any deficiency at all. Trey is an underrated shooter in my opinion. He has to take a lot of very tough shots from the deep and converts them at a pretty good rate. When hes open its usually in. I think T-Hard (Tim) will also get his stroke back this year. He has diversified his game much more now to the point where he isnt going to be forced to take some of the tough 3s he has in the past to get his shots in the offense. Shooting open shots equals better efficiency. Nik seems to be a huge option, but I know it is very hard to come in and shoot with high efficiency as a freshman (see Jon Diebler) because of the quality of the defense compared to high school and the wear and tear the body takes. With the exception of a little slump last year, Matt Vogrich (Matty Ice) has shown the ability to hit shots throughout his career. The team has a number of options for people that can hit the three. The second part of this answer is with the weapons this team has I dont think they will have to be nearly as reliant on the 3 point shot as our teams were. Stu and I came in with a mindset that we were 3 point shooters. Over our careers, we were able to develop to the point where we were comfortable putting the ball on the deck and scoring off the move, but at the end of the day I think both of us would agree that if we needed a big bucket we would want to get some daylight to get a 3 off. That means we almost always had two guys on the floor that were primarily shooters. With this team, they have guys who are more than capable shooters, but that isnt necessarily the first shot they look for within in their game. The ironic thing is, having so many guys that can put the ball on the deck and get in the lane will open up the 3 point line more I think. Remember, shooting open shots equals better efficiency, so I dont think they will have issues there.

Name a surprise player on this years team and why.
With all of the coverage on the team is it even possible to have a surprise player? I feel like everyone knows what time those guys go to the bathroom. If I had to pick one though I would have to go with my man Spike. Funny story here. Ive been good friends with some Crown Point guys, including Spikes brother Steve, since I was about ten. In the spring term after my junior year, I was over their way staying with another buddy. I went to an open gym and was unable to play because I had a little injury. Spike was playing that day and I remember thinking to myself, What is the difference between a guy like Spike with no offers and other people Ive played against in college that I swear are no better than he is. About 8 months later, that same buddy I was staying with called me and told me Michigan was recruiting Spike and the rest is history. Spike can hoop. I think hell have a great career.

How are things going in Holland? I saw that you dropped 32 points last week. Hows the season for your team and how are things going individually?
Things are going well here in Holland. Our team is 3-2 in the league. Our coach patterns our offense off of Coach Bs 2 guard system, so it was a pretty easy transition on that front. Its different from college in the respect that my team needs me to score a little bit more and I cant play quite as physical without getting in foul trouble. On Sunday, I just had one of those days. Bacari told me all last season that one day he just felt like I was going to go off for 30. Unfortunately, it never happened at Michigan, but I think it was the day he was talking about. Im not sure if Ive ever been more on fire to start a game ever in my entire life. It was definitely a ton of fun and above all else we got the win. We play this upcoming Saturday against Rotterdam. On a side note, we played our second game against Leiden and as I was walking out of the gym I saw a Jevohn Shepherd (aka the Chief) hanging up on a huge poster. It was nice to see a familiar face.

This interview was posted on http://www.umhoops.com/ By Dylan Burkhardt | 2012-2013 Season | Posted on October 31, 2012 at 2:55 pm

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

HUNGARY

Standings - A Division

A Division Standings

1. Albacomp		4-1
2. Falco-Szova		4-1
3. Kaposvari		4-1
4. Soproni		3-2
5. Szedeak		3-2
6. Atomeromu		3-2
7. Jaszberenyi		3-2
8. Marso NYKK		2-3
9. PVSK Pannon		2-3
10. ZTE KK		1-4
11. Kormend		1-4
12. Szolnok		0-0
13. FS Debrecen		0-5

Regular Season: Round 5

Oct. 26: Szedeak - Jaszberenyi 88-75
Oct. 27: Marso NYKK - ZTE KK 82-60
Oct. 27: FS Debrecen - Soproni 69-97
Oct. 25: PVSK Pannon - Kaposvari 56-79
Oct. 26: Albacomp - Kormend 118-99
Oct. 25: Falco-Szova - Atomeromu 106-77

Round 2

Oct. 31: Soproni - Albacomp 79-70

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 3: Jaszberenyi - PVSK Pannon
Nov. 3: Kaposvari - Szedeak
Nov. 3: Kormend - Falco-Szova
Nov. 3: Atomeromu - Albacomp
Nov. 3: ZTE KK - FS Debrecen
Nov. 3: Soproni - Falco-Szova

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Anthony NELSON
  Marso N.
  (185-G-89)
  Avg: 21.8

1. Nelson, Marso N.	21.8
2. Buljan, Kormend	21.8
3. Barovic, Soproni	21.0
4. Spica, Kaposvari	21.0
5. Dunn, Kaposvari	20.2
6. Wise, Soproni	20.0
7. Williams, Atomeromu	19.8
8. Wood, Albacomp	19.8
9. Dramicanin, Jaszbe.	19.8
10. Fey, Falco-Szova	19.4

Rebounds Per Game

Sean CARTER
  FS Debrecen
  (205-F/C-88)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Carter, FS Debrecen	11.6
2. Dramicanin, Jaszbe.	11.6
3. Davis, Marso N.	9.4
4. Toth, PVSK P.	9.2
5. Barovic, Soproni	9.2
6. Nelson, Marso N.	8.5
7. Fey, Falco-Szova	8.4
8. Dukic, Szedeak	8.2
9. Spica, Kaposvari	8.2
10. Hendlein, Kaposva.	8.0

Assists Per Game

Anthony NELSON
  Marso N.
  (185-G-89)
  Avg: 7

1. Nelson, Marso N.	7.0
2. Wise, Soproni	6.7
3. Moore, Albacomp	6.6
4. Thomas, Soproni	6.4
5. Williams, Atomeromu	6.0
6. Dunn, Kaposvari	5.8
7. Kalman, Falco-Sz.	5.8
8. Rakic, Jaszberenyi	5.4
9. Gaspar, ZTE K.	5.0
10. Wood, Albacomp	4.6

Steals Per Game

Ronald MOORE
  Albacomp
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Moore, Albacomp	2.8
2. Nelson, Marso N.	2.5
3. Dunn, Kaposvari	2.4
4. Rujak, Kormend	2.2
5. Gaspar, ZTE K.	2.2
6. Spica, Kaposvari	2.2
7. Kovacs, PVSK P.	2.2
8. Hollis, Albacomp	2.0
9. Koertelyesi, Atome.	2.0
10. Levy, Falco-Szova	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sean CARTER
  FS Debrecen
  (205-F/C-88)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Carter, FS Debrecen	1.4
2. Davis, Marso N.	1.4
3. Barovic, Soproni	1.2
4. Ivosev, Falco-Szo.	1.0
5. Keller, Albacomp	1.0
6. Boldizsar, Marso N.	0.8
7. Williams, Atomeromu	0.8
8. Idlet, Atomeromu	0.8
9. Wise, Soproni	0.7
10. Levy, Falco-Szova	0.6

A Division Round 5: Undefeated Albacomp loses their first game against Soproni - by Eurobasket News

There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

The most surprising game was the first loss of undefeated Albacomp (4-1) on the court of seventh ranked Soproni on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Soproni 79-70. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Albacomp. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 37-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Soproni made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Soproni especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. American guard Dontay Thomas (186-G-84, college: La Salle) stepped up and scored 26 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and Montenegrin power forward Filip Barovic (208-90) chipped in 26 points and 5 rebounds. Soproni's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Brandon Wood (187-89, college: Michigan St., agency: N.E.T.) responded with 22 points. Soproni have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Albacomp at the other side still keeps top position with one game lost. They share it with Falco-Szova and Kaposvari. Soproni is looking forward to face league's second-placed Falco-Szova in Szombathely in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Albacomp will play on the road against Atomeromu in Paks and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Atomeromu (3-2) against fourth ranked Falco-Szova (4-1) on Thursday night. Visiting Atomeromu was crushed by Falco-Szova in Szombathely 106-77. It was a key game for the top position in the league. American power forward Michael Fey (213-83, college: UCLA) nailed a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side and Branislav Jancikin accounted for 25 points and 6 rebounds. Falco-Szova's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American forward Steven Idlet (210-89, college: Tulsa) came up with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Atomeromu in the defeat. Falco-Szova keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Albacomp and Kaposvari. Atomeromu at the other side dropped to the fourth place with two games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Falco-Szova will play against Soproni (#4) on the road in the next round. Atomeromu will play against the league's leader Albacomp in Szekesfehervar and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A Division top team - Albacomp (4-1) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed eleventh ranked Kormend (1-4) in Szekesfehervar 118-99. The best player for the winners was Brandon Wood who scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Matt Shaw produced 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists (was perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line !!!) for the guests. Both coaches used bench players saving starting five for next games. Albacomp have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 4-1 record, which they share with Falco-Szova and Kaposvari. Loser Kormend dropped to the tenth position with four games lost. They share it with ZTE KK. Albacomp will meet Atomeromu (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Kormend will play against the league's second-placed Falco-Szova (#2) in Szombathely.
Bottom-ranked FS Debrecen (0-5) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fifth consecutive match to seventh ranked Soproni (3-2) 97-69. Filip Barovic orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points and 9 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Soproni have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. FS Debrecen at the other side still closes the standings with five games lost. Soproni's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Falco-Szova in Szombathely and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. FS Debrecen will play on the road against ZTE KK (#10) in Zalaegerszeg and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game in Szeged was also quite interesting. 4th placed Jaszberenyi (3-2) played at the court of sixth ranked Szedeak (3-2). Szedeak defeated Jaszberenyi 88-75 on Friday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Jaszberenyi. Milan Csorvasi stepped up and scored 26 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Szedeak moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Jaszberenyi. Szedeak will face higher ranked Kaposvari (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jaszberenyi will play against PVSK Pannon in Pecs.

In the last two games of round 5 ZTE KK was destroyed by Marso NYKK on the opponent's court 82-60. PVSK Pannon was outscored by Kaposvari in a home game 56-79.

Marso NYKK - ZTE KK 82-60

Everything could happen in Nyiregyhazi at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked Marso NYKK and 10th ranked ZTE KK had identical 1-3 record. This time Marso NYKK used a home court advantage and crushed the opponent from Zalaegerszeg 82-60 on Saturday night. The game was mostly controlled by Marso NYKK. ZTE KK was better in third quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding ZTE KK to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Marso NYKK forced 19 ZTE KK turnovers and had a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Anthony Nelson (185-89, college: Niagara) stepped up and scored 17 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals for the winners and Latvian forward Martins Berkis (198-85, agency: TSS Management) chipped in 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Bosnian center Teo Simovic (205-84) responded with 23 points and 8 rebounds and American-Puerto Rican point guard Donald Copeland (177-84, college: Seton Hall) scored 10 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Marso NYKK (2-3) moved-up to eighth place, which they share with PVSK Pannon. Loser ZTE KK keeps the tenth position with four games lost. Marso NYKK will have a break next round. ZTE KK will play at home against FS Debrecen (#13).
Top scorers:
ZTE KK: T.Simovic 23+8reb, D.Hudson 14+6reb, D.Copeland 10+4reb+6ast, A.Kovacs 6+8reb+1ast, D.Gaspar 4+3reb+3ast, G.Baki 3+4reb
Marso NYKK: M.Berkis 22+5reb+5ast, M.Mohacsi 20+3reb+1ast, A.Nelson 17+8reb+7ast, L.Polyak 8+2reb+3ast, B.Davis 8+11reb+1ast, F.Boldizsar 7+2reb

FS Debrecen - Soproni 69-97

Bottom-ranked FS Debrecen (0-5) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their fifth consecutive match to seventh ranked Soproni (3-2) 97-69. The game without a history. Soproni 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 FS Debrecen's 34. Soproni players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Montenegrin power forward Filip Barovic (208-90) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points and 9 rebounds. American guard Jeremy Wise (191-86, college: S.Mississippi) contributed with 23 points, 6 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Five Soproni players scored in double figures. American guard Earl Pettis (195-87, college: La Salle) answered with 16 points and 6 rebounds and Serbian guard Stefan Fekete (188-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for FS Debrecen. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Soproni have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. FS Debrecen at the other side still closes the standings with five games lost. Soproni's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Falco-Szova in Szombathely and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. FS Debrecen will play on the road against ZTE KK (#10) in Zalaegerszeg and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
FS Debrecen: E.Pettis 16+6reb+3ast, S.Fekete 14+3reb+5ast, G.Cseh 11+4reb, D.Mladenovic 9+1reb, V.Vas 7+5reb, S.Carter 6+4reb
Soproni: F.Barovic 24+9reb+1ast, J.Wise 23+3reb+6ast, G.Toth 14+2reb+2ast, D.Thomas 10+2reb+8ast, R.Keresztes 10+6reb, G.Gombas 5+1reb

Albacomp - Kormend 118-99

A Division top team - Albacomp (4-1) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed eleventh ranked Kormend (1-4) in Szekesfehervar 118-99. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 118-99. Albacomp shot 62.3 percent from the field and made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Albacomp outrebounded Kormend 37-18 including a 28-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 59.1 percentage. The best player for the winners was American guard Brandon Wood (187-89, college: Michigan St., agency: N.E.T.) who scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. International forward Zsolt Szabo (202-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) chipped in 21 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Matt Shaw (203-88, college: UNLV) produced 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists (was perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line !!!) and the other American import guard Adam Brown (193-88, college: Houston) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players saving starting five for next games. Albacomp have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 4-1 record, which they share with Falco-Szova and Kaposvari. Loser Kormend dropped to the tenth position with four games lost. They share it with ZTE KK. Albacomp will meet Atomeromu (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Kormend will play against the league's second-placed Falco-Szova (#2) in Szombathely.
Top scorers:
Kormend: M.Shaw 28+8reb+5ast, A.Brown 20+1reb+3ast, P.Csapai 15+1reb, Z.Buljan 13+1reb+2ast, C.Ferencz 10+3reb+2ast, A.Rujak 6+2reb+3ast
Albacomp: B.Wood 23+5reb+5ast, Z.Szabo 21+7reb+2ast, D.Hollis 17+4reb, J.Lekli 15+7reb, A.Keller 12+5reb+1ast, R.Moore 11+3reb+4ast

Szedeak - Jaszberenyi 88-75

The game in Szeged was also quite interesting. 4th placed Jaszberenyi (3-2) played at the court of sixth ranked Szedeak (3-2). Szedeak defeated Jaszberenyi 88-75 on Friday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Jaszberenyi. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 48-34 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The former international power forward Milan Csorvasi (209-88, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up and scored 26 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and American guard Anthony Gurley (190-88, college: Massachusetts) chipped in 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian center Rastko Dramicanin (207-86, agency: BeoExcell) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds and Serbian guard Miljan Rakic (195-86, agency: BeoExcell) scored 21 points and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Szedeak moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Jaszberenyi. Szedeak will face higher ranked Kaposvari (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jaszberenyi will play against PVSK Pannon in Pecs.
Top scorers:
Jaszberenyi: M.Rakic 21+2reb+6ast, R.Dramicanin 17+14reb+1ast, B.Horti 12+6reb+4ast, M.Markovic 10+4reb+1ast, G.Soos 5+1reb+3ast, R.Torok 4+2reb
Szedeak: M.Csorvasi 26+9reb+3ast, A.Gurley 20+6reb+4ast, Z.Kiss 15+4reb+2ast, M.Vida 12+5reb+4ast, A.Tanacs 6+3reb, N.Dukic 6+7reb+3ast

PVSK Pannon - Kaposvari 56-79

Rather predictable result in Pecs where fourth ranked Kaposvari (4-1) smashed 6th ranked PVSK Pannon (2-3) 79-56 on Thursday. The game without a history. Kaposvari led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Kaposvari had a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. American point guard Christopher Dunn (189-83, college: W.Virginia St., agency: Court Side) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and Serbian power forward Marko Spica (205-86, college: Cent.Michigan) chipped in 20 points and 7 rebounds. Four Kaposvari players scored in double figures. American guard Alex Legion (195-88, college: FIU, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) responded with 19 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import forward Todd Hendley (206-84, college: NC-Wilmington) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. PVSK Pannon's coach Ferenc Csirke gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Kaposvari have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Albacomp and Falco-Szova. Loser PVSK Pannon dropped to the eighth place with three games lost. Kaposvari will face Szedeak (#5) in Szeged in the next round. PVSK Pannon will play on the road against Jaszberenyi and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
PVSK Pannon: A.Legion 19+6reb+1ast, T.Hendley 16+7reb, N.Toth 12+7reb, P.Kovacs 4+3reb+3ast, K.Nagy 3+5reb, B.Loesing 2+4reb+3ast
Kaposvari: C.Dunn 23+10reb+5ast, M.Spica 20+7reb+3ast, R.Hendlein 16+9reb+2ast, K.Swanston 12+7reb, G.Drahos 3+5reb+1ast, N.Fekete 3+1reb

Falco-Szova - Atomeromu 106-77

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Atomeromu (3-2) against fourth ranked Falco-Szova (4-1) on Thursday night. Visiting Atomeromu was crushed by Falco-Szova in Szombathely 106-77. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game without a history. Falco-Szova led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 21-of-23 charity shots (91.3 percent) during the game. Falco-Szova forced 21 Atomeromu turnovers. American power forward Michael Fey (213-83, college: UCLA) nailed a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side and naturalized Serbian swingman Branislav Jancikin (198-86) accounted for 25 points and 6 rebounds. Falco-Szova's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American forward Steven Idlet (210-89, college: Tulsa) came up with 24 points and 9 rebounds and international swingman David Vojvoda (196-90, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 15 points respectively for Atomeromu in the defeat. Falco-Szova keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Albacomp and Kaposvari. Atomeromu at the other side dropped to the fourth place with two games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Falco-Szova will play against Soproni (#4) on the road in the next round. Atomeromu will play against the league's leader Albacomp in Szekesfehervar and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Atomeromu: S.Idlet 24+9reb, D.Vojvoda 15+1reb+3ast, G.Koertelyesi 10+3reb+2ast, N.Williams 9+3reb+5ast, A.Kovacs 8+2reb+2ast, A.Toth 6+7reb
Falco-Szova: B.Jancikin 25+6reb, M.Fey 21+14reb+2ast, T.Harazin 16+7reb, J.Levy 9+4reb+4ast, T.Ivosev 9+6reb, L.Kalman 8+2reb+4ast

Round 2

Soproni - Albacomp 79-70

The most surprising game was the first loss of undefeated Albacomp (4-1) on the court of seventh ranked Soproni on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Soproni 79-70. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Albacomp. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 37-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Soproni made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Soproni especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. American guard Dontay Thomas (186-84, college: La Salle) stepped up and scored 26 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and Montenegrin power forward Filip Barovic (208-90) chipped in 26 points and 5 rebounds. Four Soproni players scored in double figures. Soproni's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Brandon Wood (187-89, college: Michigan St., agency: N.E.T.) responded with 22 points and the other American import point guard Ronald Moore (183-88, college: Siena) scored 7 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Soproni have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Albacomp at the other side still keeps top position with one game lost. They share it with Falco-Szova and Kaposvari. Soproni is looking forward to face league's second-placed Falco-Szova in Szombathely in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Albacomp will play on the road against Atomeromu in Paks and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Albacomp: B.Wood 22+3reb+2ast, J.Lekli 9+4reb, Z.Supola 9+6reb, Z.Szabo 9+4reb, R.Moore 7+7reb+7ast, D.Hollis 7
Soproni: F.Barovic 26+5reb+1ast, D.Thomas 26+4reb+7ast, J.Wise 15+4reb+7ast, G.Toth 10+4reb+2ast, R.Keresztes 2+2reb, Z.Vesztergom 0

Lami-Ved Kormend is testing Vincent Simpson - by Tamas Deri

After the bad start of the season the coaching stuff and the management of Lami-Ved Kormend decided to bring in one more import player and invited Vincent Simpson (185-G-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Hampton) for a try-out. The 185 cm tall guard will have two weeks to convince the management to get a contract for the rest of the season. Simpson graduated on the University of Hampton in 2010 and had a great senior season averaging 14.9ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.6apg, 2.6spg in the MEAC. He signed his first professional deal with Bochum Astro Stars in Germany and helped his team with 20.8 points, 6.2 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals in 9 games. He spent the last season with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Steamers in the PBL and put up 19.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 6.6apg in 21 games of the season. He moved back to Europe two months ago and started the season with Trepca in Kosovo. In 4 games of the BKT Superliga Simpson averaged 17.0 points, 6.2 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game. He already played his first game with Lami-Ved Kormend last night and helped the winners with 11 points, 3 steals, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 31 minutes on the court.

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

ICELAND

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Stjarnan		4-1
2. Skallagrimur		3-1
3. Snaefell		3-1
4. Fjolnir		3-2
5. Grindavik		3-2
6. KFI		2-2
7. KR		2-2
8. Thor Thorl		2-2
9. IR		2-3
10. Keflavik		2-3
11. Njardvik		1-4
12. Tindastoll		0-4

Regular Season: Round 5

Nov. 1: Keflavik - Fjolnir 91-69
Nov. 1: Njardvik - Stjarnan 108-115 2OT
Nov. 1: IR - Grindavik 105-99
Nov. 2: Snaefell - KFI
Nov. 2: Thor Thorl - KR

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Eric PALM
  IR
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 25.8

1. Palm, IR	25.8
2. Shouse, Stjarnan	24.6
3. Medlock, Skallagri.	24.5
4. Zeglinski, Grindav.	24.4
5. Vilbergsson, Skall.	22.3
6. Belin, Njardvik	22.0
7. Broussard, Grind.	21.8
8. Smith, Thor Thorl	21.8
9. Valdimarsson, Stja.	21.2
10. Jonsson, Snaefell	21.0

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus VAN
  Njardvik
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 19

1. Van, Njardvik	19.0
2. Diggs, Thor Thorl	11.3
3. Craion, Keflavik	10.4
4. Helgason, Stjarnan	10.3
5. Valentine, Tindast.	10.0
6. Miller-W., KFI	9.5
7. Mills, Stjarnan	9.0
8. McQueen, Snaefell	8.8
9. Quaintance, Skalla.	8.7
10. Spicer, Fjolnir	8.5

Assists Per Game

Jay THREATT
  Snaefell
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Threatt, Snaefell	9.3
2. Shouse, Stjarnan	9.2
3. Williams, IR	7.2
4. Zeglinski, Grindav.	6.2
5. Miles, Tindastoll	5.8
6. Fridriksson, Njard.	5.4
7. Smith, Thor Thorl	5.0
8. Valsson, Keflavik	4.4
9. Quaintance, Skalla.	4.3
10. Broussard, Grind.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Haminn QUAINTANCE
  Skalla.
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Quaintance, Skalla.	3.7
2. Hilmarsson, Thor T.	3.5
3. Miles, Tindastoll	2.8
4. Broussard, Grind.	2.6
5. Jonsson, Thor Thorl	2.5
6. Palm, IR	2.4
7. Smith, Thor Thorl	2.3
8. Thomas, KR	2.3
9. Threatt, Snaefell	2.3
10. Viggosson, Tindas.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Brian MILLS
  Stjarnan
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Mills, Stjarnan	2.6
2. Diggs, Thor Thorl	2.5
3. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.	1.8
4. Craion, Keflavik	1.6
5. Van, Njardvik	1.0
6. Quaintance, Skalla.	1.0
7. Magnusson, KR	1.0
8. Stefansson, Njard.	0.8
9. Spicer, Fjolnir	0.8
10. Hrafnkelsson, Kef.	0.8

Hlynur Baeringsson's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Icelandic playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Icelandic who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Hlynur Baeringsson

#1. This week's number one is an international forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82, currently plays in Sweden). He led Sundsvall Dragons to a victory over the ninth-ranked LF Basket (3-4) 92-77 in the Swedish Basketligan in Friday night's game. Baeringsson was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 26 points and getting 15 rebounds. Baeringsson also added 6 assists in 33 minutes on the court. Sundsvall Dragons (5-2) is placed fourth in the Basketligan. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Baeringsson is ranked second on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 9.7rpg. He also averaged so far 15.4ppg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 60.3%(35-58), 3FGP: 55.6% and FT: 78.1% in the seven games he played so far. Baeringsson is currently a member of the Icelandic senior national team.

Jakob Sigurdarson

#2. Second place goes to an international point guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern, currently plays in Sweden) is a teammate of previously mentioned Hlynur Baeringsson and both played together in the last Swedish Basketligan game. Sigurdarson contributed to an easy victory against the ninth-ranked LF Basket (3-4) 92-77. He recorded 13 points and had 3 steals. It's Sigurdarson's fourth season with the team. Sigurdarson is currently ninth on the list of top scorers. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Sigurdarson averages: 17.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3FGP: 51.3%(20-39) and FT: 90.5%(19-21). He is in the roster of the Icelandic senior national team.

Jon Stefansson

#3. The Icelandic player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Jon Stefansson (196-82, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Stefansson could not help CAI Zaragoza (2-3) to beat G.Canaria 2014 (3-2). He scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 23 minutes. CAI Zaragoza was badly defeated 74-56 on the road by the higher-ranked (#10) G.Canaria 2014. It was CAI Zaragoza's third consecutive loss in a row. But the season just started, so everything may happen. This year Stefansson's overall stats are: 7.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2FGP: 54.5%, 3FGP: 25.0% in the five games. He is also a member of the Icelandic senior national team.

Pavel Ermolinskij

#4. Guard Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87, agency: I.D.S. Law, currently plays in Sweden) contributed to a Norrkoping Dolphins' victory against the fifth-ranked Uppsala Basket (5-3) 94-87 in the Swedish Basketligan in Tuesday night's game. Ermolinskij recorded 12 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Norrkoping Dolphins (6-0) is placed first in the Basketligan. So far his team won all six games in the Regular Season. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Ermolinskij has relatively good stats this season: 11.6ppg, 5.6rpg, 3.8apg and 1.5spg. He is also Icelandic national team player.

Arnar Jonsson

#5. Former international guard Arnar Jonsson (183-83, currently plays in Denmark) was the main contributor in an overtime Aarhus BC's victory against the closely-ranked Vaerlose (3-3) 71-68 in the Danish Ligaen last Tuesday. Jonsson was the best player in that game. He recorded 17 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals in 33 minutes. Aarhus BC (4-5) is placed sixth in the Ligaen. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. It's Jonsson's first season with the team. Jonsson belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #2 with 6.0apg. This year he also averages: 8.0ppg, 3.3rpg and 1.2spg in the six games. Jonsson used to play for the Icelandic national team six years ago.

Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson

#6. Point guard Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (190-88, currently plays in Germany), who plays in the German BBL was not able to help Mitteldeutscher BC (1-5) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his good performance the bottom-ranked Mitteldeutscher BC was defeated 72-57 in Tuebingen by the much higher-ranked Walter Tigers (#11). Vilhjalmsson was the second best scorer with 12 points. Vilhjalmsson's total stats this season are: 9.0ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.8apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Icelandic National Team roster.

Axel Karason

#7. International small forward Axel Karason (194-83, currently plays in Denmark) was not able to secure a victory for Vaerlose (3-3) in their game against Naestved (5-4) in the Danish Ligaen, despite his very good performance in Wednesday night's game. Karason was the second best scorer with 17 points. He also added 4 rebounds in 31 minutes. But Vaerlose lost 70-75 on the opponent's court to the lower-ranked (#5) Naestved. This year Karason's total stats are: 9.8ppg, 6.6rpg and 1.1apg in the eight games. He is also Icelandic national team player.

Gudni Valentinusson

#8. Center Gudni Valentinusson (204-85, currently plays in Denmark) is a teammate of previously mentioned Arnar Jonsson and both played together in the last Danish Ligaen game. Valentinusson helped Aarhus BC win their n overtime game against the closely-ranked Vaerlose (3-3) 71-68. He recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 10 rebounds. Valentinusson has averaged so far 4.9ppg and 3.1rpg. He used to play for the Icelandic U20 national team back in 2005.

Logi Gunnarsson

#9. International shooting guard Logi Gunnarsson (192-81, currently plays in France) helped Angers BC 49 win their game against the 14th-ranked Chartres (1-5) 90-84 in the French NM1 (third division) on Friday night. Gunnarsson scored 7 points in 31 minutes. Angers BC 49 (3-2) is placed sixth in the NM1. This year Gunnarsson has relatively solid stats: 12.3ppg, 3.0rpg and 2.5apg in the four games. He is also in the roster of the Icelandic national team.

One more player who has never been selected to any of national teams, but has Icelandic passport:

#1. Aske Thorsteinsson (185-SG-86, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen could not help the league outsider Aalborg (0-9) to beat Naestved (5-4). Thorsteinsson cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 3 points. The bottom-ranked Aalborg was defeated 84-70 at home by the higher-ranked Naestved (#5). So far Aalborg lost all nine games in the Regular Season. Thorsteinsson has been at the team for four years. This season Thorsteinsson averages just 2.9ppg.

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

IRAN

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Foolad Mahan		1-0
2. Petrochimi		1-0
3. Sanaye Petrochimi		1-0
4. Azad		0-0
5. Esteghlal		0-0
6. Mahram		0-0
7. Naft Sepahan		0-0
8. Al Badr		0-1
9. Gorgan		0-1
10. Zanjan		0-1

Regular Season: Round 1

Nov. 1: Petrochimi - Gorgan 80-68
Nov. 1: Sanaye Petrochimi - Al Badr 73-69
Nov. 1: Foolad Mahan - Zanjan 57-54
Nov. 5: Naft Sepahan - Azad
Nov. 5: Mahram - Esteghlal

Start of Season 2012-2013 ... - by Mohammad Ahmadi

New season of Iran Basketball Superleague is going to pass it's First day but it seems that we are going to have a normal season because some clubs can not pay too much to Big import players due to financial problems and it's related to country financial issues.

First week of Season 2012-2013 started by only 3 matches and two more matches will be on next Monday.
First game was between Sanaye Petrochimi Mahshahr and Al Badr Kong, Champion of 1st Division in 2011-2012. In this game , Sanaye Petrochimi players could beat their guests on 73-69.
In second game of Khoozestan Province, Shahrdari Gorgan Municipality was going to Mahshahr to play against Petrochimi Bandar Imam Harbour and they lost the game 80-68 to Petrochimi.
And third game was the Most important Game of the week and it was between Foolad Mahan Esfahan and Hamyari Shahrdari Zanjan . Hamyari Shahrdari Zanjan club have signed Coach Koohian and some key players of Zob Ahan and other clubs this season and is trying to be in top4 , but in first game of the season, they lost their important game to Foolad Mahan Esfahan in 57-54. Foolad Mahan Esfahan won 1st and 4th Quarters in 13-11 and 19-9 , but Hamyari Shahrdari Zanjan could beat Foolad in 2nd and 3th quarters in 24-17 and 10-8.

Two more games will be on Monday :
Mahram vs Esteghlal Qeshm
Naft Sepahan vs Azad University

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

IRELAND

Colin O'Reilly's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Irish playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Irish who are currently playing abroad.

Colin O'Reilly

#1. This week's number one is former international forward Colin O'Reilly (200-84, college: Post, currently plays in United Kingdom), who plays in the British BBL. O'Reilly could not help Plymouth Raiders (3-1) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his very good performance Plymouth Raiders was badly defeated 95-78 on the road by the higher-ranked Surrey Heat (#3). O'Reilly recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 10 rebounds. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's O'Reilly's first year with the team. He has individually a very good season with high stats. O'Reilly averages: 19.8ppg, 9.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 69.4%(25-36), 3FGP: 37.5% and FT: 84.6%. He played for the Irish senior national team three years ago.

Donnie McGrath

#2. Second place goes to former international guard Donnie McGrath (193-84, college: Providence, currently plays in Greece), who plays in the Greek A1. McGrath was not able to help PAOK (3-1) in their last game. Despite his good performance PAOK lost 78-89 in Dramas to the lower-ranked (#4) KAOD. McGrath scored 10 points and added 6 assists in 33 minutes. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. McGrath has relatively good stats this year: 11.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.0apg, 2FGP: 76.9%, 3FGP: 28.6% in the three games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. McGrath played for the Irish national team in 2008. Strangely he has never played in Ireland.

Conor Grace

#3. The Irish player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Conor Grace (210-82, college: Davidson, currently plays in Sweden). Grace was not able to secure a victory for Eco Orebro (1-6) in their game against Solna Vikings (5-2) in the Swedish Basketligan. Despite his very good performance in Tuesday night's game He recorded 13 points. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. Grace's overall stats this season are: 8.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 43.9%, 3FGP: 23.8%. He played for the Irish national team three years ago.

Bryan Mullins

   #4. Point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois, currently plays in France) couldn't help Chalons-Reims (3-3) in their game against Fos Ouest (2-4) in the French ProB (second division). He did not beat the league record on Friday evening. Mullins scored only 3 points. Chalons-Reims was edged 78-76 in Fos by the lower-ranked Ouest (#14). Mullins' overall stats this season are: 5.5ppg, 2.5rpg and 3.7apg. He is a naturalized American. Mullins used to play for the Irish national team back in 2009. Apparently he has never played in Ireland.

The list of other players, who all have Irish passport but never been selected to any of Irish national teams:

   #1. Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh, currently plays in Spain) contributed to an easy victory against the 14th-ranked Cajasol (1-4) crushing them 82-61 in the Spanish ACB in Saturday night's game. He scored 10 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 20 minutes. Blusens Monbus Obradoiro CAB (4-1) is placed sixth in the ACB. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Kendall is currently fifth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Kendall averages: 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.0apg and 1.4bpg in the five games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Irish.

   #2. Will Hanley (200-G/F-90, agency: Duran International, college: Bowdoin, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) could not help Oviedo CB (1-1) to beat Palma (2-1). Hanley scored 8 points in 17 minutes. Oviedo CB was edged 71-68 on the road by the higher-ranked (#6) Palma. This year Hanley has relatively solid stats: 11.5ppg, 6.5rpg and 1.5spg in the two games. He is a naturalized American. Apparently Hanley has never played in Ireland.

   #3. Experienced Tony McCrory (199-G/F-77, college: Simon Fraser, currently plays in Switzerland) was not able to help Starwings (0-4) in their game against Fribourg (4-0) in the Swiss LNA. McCrory cannot count it as his best performance. He recorded only 2 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists in 29 minutes. The bottom-ranked Starwings was crushed 85-62 at home by the leading Fribourg. So far Starwings lost all four games in the Regular Season. McCrory is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Starwings' roster. This season McCrory has relatively solid stats: 10.8ppg, 2.8rpg and 2.8apg in the four games. He is another player who holds two passports: Canadian and Irish.

   #4. Yaniv Strauss (190-F-92, currently plays in Israel) was not able to secure a victory for Hapoel Kazrin (2-1) in their game against Elitzur Yavne (3-0) in the Israeli National League (second division). Strauss cannot count Tuesday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. Hapoel Kazrin was badly defeated 94-75 in Yavne by the leading Elitzur. This season Strauss averages just 2.0ppg.

   #5. Orel Lev (195-SG-93, currently plays in Israel) couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Hapoel Kfar Saba (0-3) in their game against Maccabi K/G (1-2) in the Israeli National League (second division). He cannot count Tuesday's game as one of the best ones. Lev scored only 3 points in 9 minutes on the court. It was his first game for Hapoel Kfar Saba this season. Hapoel Kfar Saba lost 66-79 in Kiryat Gat to the higher-ranked (#10) Maccabi K/G. So far Hapoel Kfar Saba lost all three games in the Regular Season.

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

ISRAEL

Euroleague: Maccabi Electra extend the winning streak - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Electra - Asseco Prokom 93:62

Maccabi Electra extend the winning streak to 4 games after the win over Asseco Prokom. The Israeli team conquers Group B after 93:62 win. The Polish side meanwhile fell at 1-3 record.
Maccabi Electra was the favorite of the game and did not waste the time to prove their ambitions. They erupted with 27-13 in the first period and added 23-17 in the second frame. Moreover the second half also belonged to the hosts that were supported by more than 11500 local fans. Maccabi won the third period 22-17 and finished the game with 21-15.
Ricky Hickman (189-PG-85, college: NC-Greensboro) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and David Logan (185-G-82, college: Indianapolis) nailed 13. Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) delivered 11 points, while three other teammates posted 8 apiece. Jerel Blassingame (175-PG-81, college: UNLV) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, while Piotr Szczotka (196-F-81, agency: Alti Sport) brought 12. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G/F-93) finished the game with 11 points and Adam Hrycaniuk (206-C-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cincinnati) added 10.

Maccabi Electra: Ricky Hickman 14, David Logan 13, Giorgi Shermadini 11
Asseco Prokom: Jerel Blassingame 14, Piotr Szczotka 12, Mateusz Ponitka 11, Adam Hrycaniuk 10

Yuval Naimy selected the top Israeli playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Israelis who are currently playing abroad.

Yuval Naimy

#1. This week's number one is an international point guard Yuval Naimy (188-85, currently plays in VTB United League). He led his Russian team Triumph Lyubertsy to a victory over the tenth-ranked Tsmoki-Minsk (0-5) crushing them 85-62 in the VTB United League in Sunday night's game. Naimy was MVP of the game. He recorded 23 points in 22 minutes on the court. Triumph Lyubertsy (2-2) is placed sixth in group B. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Naimy's first year with the team. Naimy is currently third on the list of top scorers with 17.5ppg. He also averaged so far 3.0rpg, 4.5apg, 2FGP: 47.4%, 3FGP: 57.1%(16-28) and FT: 44.4% in the four games he played so far. Naimy is currently a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Robert Rothbart

#2. Second place goes to an international center Robert Rothbart (217-86, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL. He could not help one of league's weakest teams Start Gdynia (1-4) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Rothbart's very good performance the bottom-ranked Start Gdynia was defeated 78-71 on the road by the one of league's weakest teams Kotwica (#11). He was the top scorer with 21 points. Rothbart also added 7 rebounds and made 5 blocks (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). But the season just started, so everything may happen. Rothbart belongs to league's best blockers and is ranked #2. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.8ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.5bpg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 51.9% and FT: 87.1%. Rothbart has a dual citizenship: Bosnia and Herzegovina and Israeli. Ex-Hapoel Galil Elyon player is in the roster of the Israeli senior national team.

Alex Tyus

#3. The Israeli player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Alex Tyus (205-88, college: Florida, currently plays in Italy). He was not able to help Cantu (3-2) in their game against Cimberio Varese (5-0) in the Italian SerieA. Tyus scored 7 points in 15 minutes. Cantu lost 73-77 in Varese to the second-ranked Cimberio. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Tyus has relatively good stats this year: 11.4ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 88.9%(24-27) in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Tyus is also a member of the Israeli senior national team. He used to play for Maccabi Ashdod in Israeli league.

Yotam Halperin

   #4. Shooting guard Yotam Halperin (193-84, currently plays in Germany) was the major contributor in a Bayern Muenchen's victory against the closely-ranked BBC Bayreuth (4-2) 73-54 in the German BBL in Sunday night's game. Halperin scored 11 points and added 3 passes. FC Bayern Muenchen (4-2) is placed fifth in the BBL. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. It's Halperin's first season with the team. This year he averages: 8.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.0apg and 1.5spg. Halperin is also Israeli national team player.

The list of other players, who all have Israeli passport but never been selected to any of Israeli national teams:

   #1. Jason Thomas (191-G-82, college: American, currently plays in Sweden), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan could not help Boras Basket (5-2) to beat KFUM Jamtland (3-4). He recorded 7 points and added 5 assists in 27 minutes. Boras Basket lost 110-115 on the road to the lower-ranked (#8) KFUM Jamtland. This year Thomas has relatively solid stats: 11.4ppg, 6.4rpg and 2.6apg in the seven games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Thomas used to play for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan in Israeli league.

   #2. Guy Aud (188-G-89, currently plays in Germany) was not able to help Finke Baskets (3-3) in their game against ETB Wohnbau (2-4) in the German ProA (second division). Aud scored 8 points and added 5 passes. Finke Baskets was crushed 104-82 in Essen by the lower-ranked ETB Wohnbau (#13). Aud is ranked first on the list of the best passers in the league. This season he has very good stats: 14.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 8.2apg and 2.0spg. Aud has a dual citizenship: Israeli and German. Worth to mention he played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

   #3. Haran Shifman (183-G-84, currently plays in Poland) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider AZS PP (0-6) 92-76 in the Polish 1Liga (second division) in Saturday night's game. Shifman scored 7 points and added 6 passes in 23 minutes. MKS Budimpex Polonia Przemysl (3-3) is placed eighth in the 1Liga. This year Shifman's overall stats are: 5.5ppg, 2.0rpg and 3.5apg in the two games. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish. He attended previously one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top Israeli players, who play abroad:

Omri Casspi (204-SF-88) plays for Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA
Oded Brandwein (186-G-88) plays for Energa Czarni in Polish TBL
Naor Sharon (193-PG-95) plays for Paris-Levallois in French ProA
Derek Glasser (186-G-87) plays for Kalev/Cramo in Estonian KML
Shawn Weinstein (186-G-85) plays for Barako Bull in Filipino PBA
Gil Sobol (201-C-93) plays for Fraport Skyliners II in German ProB
Facundo Sucatzky (175-PG-72) plays for Estudiantes Concordia in Argentinian TNA
Or Sela (180-G-84) plays for Charlottenburg in German Regionalliga

Notice: The list above includes only some of the Israeli playing currently abroad. Go to Israeli Abroad Page to see completed list.

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

ITALY

Standings - B1

Nazionale A Standings

1. Treviglio		6-0
2. Matera		6-1
3. Lucca		5-2
4. Bologna		5-2
5. Torino		5-2
6. Bari		4-2
7. Agrigento		4-3
8. Castelletto		4-3
9. Firenze		3-3
10. Casalpusterlengo		3-3
11. Ferrara		3-3
12. Chieti		3-4
13. San Severo		3-4
14. Omegna		2-4
15. Recanati		2-4
16. Latina Basket		2-5
17. Mirandola		1-6
18. Perugia		1-6
19. Reggio Calabr.		1-6
20. Rieti		0-0

Regular Season: Round 7

Nov. 1: Bologna - Agrigento 91-76
Nov. 1: Latina Basket - Casalpusterlengo 88-77
Nov. 1: Chieti - Reggio Calabr. 84-66
Nov. 1: Firenze - Treviglio 83-94
Nov. 1: Torino - Mirandola 82-62
Nov. 1: Matera - Recanati 74-59
Nov. 1: Ferrara - Lucca 73-75
Nov. 1: San Severo - Omegna 69-66
Nov. 1: Perugia - Castelletto 52-86

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 3: Omegna - Casalpusterlengo
Nov. 4: Treviglio - Ferrara
Nov. 4: Reggio Calabr. - Torino
Nov. 4: Castelletto - Bologna
Nov. 4: Recanati - San Severo
Nov. 4: Mirandola - Perugia
Nov. 4: Chieti - Matera
Nov. 4: Latina Basket - Firenze
Nov. 4: Agrigento - Bari

stats leader

Points Per Game

Simone FERRARESE
  Treviglio
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Ferrarese, Trevigl.	19.3
2. Ruggiero, Bari	18.5
3. Parente, Lucca	18.4
4. Poltroneri, Perugia	17.9
5. Reati, Treviglio	17.0
6. Losi, Mirandola	16.6
7. Casadei, Firenze	16.5
8. Gueye, San Severo	16.3
9. Circosta, Bologna	16.3
10. Marino, Casalp.	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Andrea IANNILLI
  San Severo
  (207-C-84)
  Avg: 13.6

1. Iannilli, San Seve.	13.6
2. Rossi, Chieti	10.4
3. Ihedioha, Castelle.	8.9
4. Benfatto, Ferrara	8.8
5. Bonessio, Bari	8.8
6. Baldi Rossi, Torino	8.4
7. Raminelli, Bologna	8.3
8. Mancin, Mirandola	8.1
9. Wojciechowsk., Tor.	8.0
10. Spizzichini, Fire.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Jordan LOSI
  Mirandola
  (182-PG-80)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Losi, Mirandola	6.7
2. Marino, Casalp.	5.2
3. Piazza, Bologna	5.1
4. Simoncelli, Castel.	4.3
5. Ferrarese, Trevigl.	4.2
6. Rajola, Chieti	4.1
7. Cantone, Matera	3.9
8. Caroldi, Firenze	3.5
9. Mossi, Agrigento	3.4
10. Raschi, Chieti	3.3

Steals Per Game

Davide PARENTE
  Lucca
  (188-PG-83)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Parente, Lucca	4.3
2. Tavernelli, Latina	4.3
3. Piazza, Bologna	3.9
4. Sanna, Firenze	3.8
5. Maggio, San Severo	3.6
6. Bonamente, Perugia	3.4
7. Barsanti, Lucca	3.3
8. Losi, Mirandola	3.3
9. Casadei, Firenze	3.2
10. Spizzichini, Ferr.	3.2

Blocks Per Game

Matteo RAMINELLI
  Bologna
  (203-C-83)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Raminelli, Bologna	1.7
2. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.6
3. Rossi, Chieti	1.4
4. Gagliardo, Latina	1.1
5. Cortesi, Ferrara	1.0
6. Scarponi, San S.	1.0
7. Sanna, Firenze	1.0
8. Pazzi, Castelletto	0.9
9. Chiarello, Perugia	0.9
10. Iannilli, San Sev.	0.9

EuroLeague: Zalgiris Kaunas edge EA7 Emporio Armani in front of 15000 fans - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris Kaunas - EA7 Emporio Armani 92:87

Zalgiris Kaunas edge EA7 Emporio Armani in front of 15000 fans for the perfect 4-0 record. The Lithuanian team continued their winning streak after 92:87 win.
It was not sweet in the start of the game for the hosts that lost the first period 20-27. The Italian team increased to 10 points, but the hosts cut it to 51:47 at the halftime. Zalgiris Kaunas added 25-14 in the third quarter and enjoyed 7-point deficit after three quarters. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) scored for 89:84 and then Keith Langford (193-SG-83, college: Kansas) made two free throws to reduce to just three points. Omar-Sharif Cook (188-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) made just one for 89:87 and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) scored one free throw for 90:87 with 21 seconds to go. Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston) went on the free throw line with 3 seconds remaining and increased the victory to 5 points.
Oliver Lafayette paced all the winners with 17 points and Ibrahim Jaaber (187-PG-84, college: Pennsylvania) notched 11. Ksistof Lavrinovic scored 10, while Marko Popovic, Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) and Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) had 9 apiece. Keith Langford replied with 24 points in the losing effort and Malik Hairston (198-G/F-87, college: Oregon) added 21. Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81) and Alessandro Gentile (200-G/F-92) had 11 points each in defeat.

Zalgiris Kaunas: Oliver Lafayette 17, Ibrahim Jaaber 11, Ksistof Lavrinovic 10, Marko Popovic 9, Tremmell Darden 9, Darjus Lavrinovic 9
EA7 Emporio Armani: Keith Langford 24, Malik Hairston 21, Antonis Fotsis 11, Alessandro Gentile 11

EuroLeague: Real Madrid trounce Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid - Cantu 80:66

Real Madrid earned the third EuroLeague victory. They overcame visiting Cantu to gain 3-1 record on top of Group A. Mirza Begic (217-C-85) delivered 17 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Cantu fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Real Madrid started the game aggressively. They ran away for an 18:12 lead after ten minutes. Real dominated throughout the second quarter. The Madrid outfit ensured a 41:26 halftime advantage. Things hardly changed in the second half. Real stayed in control in the third term. They accumulated a 63:48 lead with ten minutes remaining. Cantu cut the margin to 13 points in the fourth frame but never got close enough to threaten the hosts. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) and Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) provided 14 points each for Real Madrid. Pietro Aradori (195-SG-88) answered with 18 points for Cantu. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) and Jeff Brooks (203-F-89, college: Penn St.) netted 13 points apiece in the loss.

Real Madrid: Mirza Begic 17+10 boards, Rudy Fernandez 14, Nikola Mirotic 14
Cantu: Pietro Aradori 18, Maarten Leunen 13, Jeff Brooks 13

Nazionale A Round 7: Leader Treviglio gets another victory - by Eurobasket News

It's still too early stage of the Regular Season in Nazionale A, but even now we can clearly see the differece between stronger teams and outsiders. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Undefeated leader Treviglio delivered the sixth consecutive win on Thursday night. This time they beat 8th ranked Firenze (3-3) 94-83. The game was mostly controlled by Treviglio. Firenze managed to win fourth quarter 26-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Point guard Simone Ferrarese (182-87) fired 22 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. The former international guard Davide Reati (193-88) chipped in 26 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Stefano Spizzichini (202-90) produced 20 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Undefeated Treviglio (6-0) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with a perfect record of 6 victories in a row. Firenze at the other side dropped to the ninth position with three games lost. They share it with Ferrara and Casalpusterlengo. Treviglio are looking forward to face Naturhouse Ferrara (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Firenze will play against Latina Basket and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Important game to mention about took place in Ferrara. Fourth ranked Lucca (5-2) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging 10th ranked Naturhouse Ferrara (3-3) 75-73 on Thursday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Walter Santarossa (200-78) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 7 rebounds. Davide Parente contributed with 18 points and 5 steals for the winners. Guard Gabriele Spizzichini (194-92) answered with 26 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) for Naturhouse Ferrara. Lucca moved-up to third place, which they share with Torino and Bologna. Naturhouse Ferrara at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the ninth position with three games lost. They share it with Firenze and Casalpusterlengo. Lucca will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Naturhouse Ferrara will play on the road against the league's leader Treviglio (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in San Severo between Mazzeo San Severo and Omegna. Fifteenth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (3-4) got a very close home victory over 12th ranked Omegna (2-4). Mazzeo San Severo managed to escape with a 3-point win 69-66 on Thursday evening. It was a great evening for Andrea Iannilli who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. At the losing side Mohamed Toure responded with 15 points. Omegna's coach Giampaolo Di Lorenzo rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Mazzeo San Severo moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Chieti. Loser Omegna dropped to the fourteenth position with four games lost. They share it with Recanati. Mazzeo San Severo will meet Recanati (#15) on the road in the next round. Omegna will play against Casalpusterlengo and hope to secure a win.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Latina, where higher ranked Casalpusterlengo (3-3) lost to seventeenth ranked Latina Basket (2-5) in a road game 77-88. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Casalpusterlengo. It was an exceptional evening for Riccardo Tavernelli who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. Latina Basket moved-up to sixteenth place. Casalpusterlengo at the other side keeps the ninth position with three games lost. Latina Basket's next round opponent will be higher ranked Firenze (#9) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Perugia. Local Perugia (1-6) was outscored by eleventh ranked Castelletto (4-3) 86-52 on Thursday night. Alex Ranuzzi fired 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Castelletto moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Agrigento. Loser Perugia dropped to the seventeenth position with six games lost. Castelletto will face higher ranked Bologna (#4) in Ozzano Emilia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Perugia will play on the road against Mirandola (#17) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games of round 7 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Mirandola was crushed by Torino in a road game 82-62. Matera beat Recanati at home 74-59. Reggio Calabr. lost to Chieti on the opponent's court 66-84. Bologna managed to outperform Agrigento in a home game 91-76.

Torino - Mirandola 82-62

There was no surprise when 16th ranked Mirandola (1-6) was crushed on the road by third ranked Torino (5-2) 82-62 on Thursday. Torino outrebounded Mirandola 35-19 including 24 on the defensive glass. Naturalized Polish power forward Jakub Wojciechowski (210-90) fired 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Guard Claudio Tommasini (190-91) chipped in 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Torino's coach Stefano Pillastrini used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Michele Venturelli (188-82) produced 20 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and point guard Jordan Losi (182-80, agency: Two Points) added 11 points, 6 assists and 8 steals respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Torino. They maintain third place with 5-2 record behind leader Treviglio, which they share with Lucca and Bologna. Mirandola lost their fourth game in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the seventeenth position with six games lost. Torino will face Reggio Calabr. (#19) in Reggio Calabria in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Mirandola will play at home against Perugia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Mirandola: M.Venturelli 20+2reb, A.Pilotti 11+1reb, L.Pignatti 11+5reb, J.Losi 11+6ast, G.Sgobba 7+2reb, A.Mancin 2+8reb+1ast
Torino: M.Evangelisti 15+2reb+1ast, J.Wojciechowski 14+8reb+1ast, C.Tommasini 12+5reb+4ast, F.Conti 10+6reb+3ast, F.Baldi Rossi 9+8reb+3ast, K.Viglianisi 9+1reb

Matera - Recanati 74-59

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Matera (6-1) defeated at home 13th ranked Recanati (2-4) 74-59 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Matera. Recanati was better in second period 21-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Matera forced 19 Recanati turnovers. The former international power forward Massimo Rezzano (203-82) fired a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Argentinian guard Carlos Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 20 points and 4 assists. Matera's coach Giovanni Benedetto used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Gianni Cantagalli (196-88, agency: Players Group) produced 20 points and 5 rebounds and guard Marco Gnaccarini (185-81) added 13 points respectively for lost side. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Matera. They maintain second place with 6-1 record having just -1 point less than leader Treviglio. Loser Recanati dropped to the fourteenth position with four games lost. Matera will face Chieti (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Recanati will play against Mazzeo San Severo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Recanati: G.Cantagalli 20+5reb+2ast, M.Gnaccarini 13+3reb+2ast, S.Centanni 7+1reb, M.Pierangeli 6+3reb, M.Tagliabue 6+6reb, M.Maganza 5+7reb
Matera: M.Rezzano 20+10reb, C.Sebastian Vico 20+3reb+4ast, A.Iannuzzi 19+5reb, A.Vitale 5+2reb+2ast, C.Cantone 5+3reb+3ast, M.Cozzoli 3+2reb

Latina Basket - Casalpusterlengo 88-77

We should mention about the upset which took place in Latina, where higher ranked Casalpusterlengo (3-3) lost to seventeenth ranked Latina Basket (2-5) in a road game 77-88. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Casalpusterlengo. The game was mostly controlled by Latina Basket. Casalpusterlengo was better in third quarter 23-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for point guard Riccardo Tavernelli (188-91) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. Guard Tommaso Milani (190-88) accounted for 17 points for the winning side. Five Latina Basket players scored in double figures. Guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) came up with 24 points and power forward Alberto Chiumenti (204-87, agency: Players Group) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Casalpusterlengo in the defeat. Latina Basket moved-up to sixteenth place. Casalpusterlengo at the other side keeps the ninth position with three games lost. Latina Basket's next round opponent will be higher ranked Firenze (#9) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Casalpusterlengo: T.Marino 24+2reb+3ast, A.Chiumenti 14+7reb+1ast, R.Prandin 11+6reb+1ast, M.Venuto 8+2reb+2ast, F.Bellina 7+3reb+1ast, G.Ricci 6+4reb
Latina Basket: T.Milani 17+3reb+2ast, A.Cecchetti 15+2reb+1ast, R.Tavernelli 15+6reb+10ast, F.Gagliardo 14+3reb, T.Plateo 13+5reb+3ast, M.Micevic 12+4reb+2ast

San Severo - Omegna 69-66

A very close game took place in San Severo between Mazzeo San Severo and Omegna. Fifteenth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (3-4) got a very close home victory over 12th ranked Omegna (2-4). Mazzeo San Severo managed to escape with a 3-point win 69-66 on Thursday evening. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 22-13. But Omegna won second period 18-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mazzeo San Severo forced 30 Omegna turnovers. It was a great evening for center Andrea Iannilli (207-84) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international forward Manuel Del Brocco (203-83) helped adding 17 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). At the losing side naturalized Ivorian guard Mohamed Toure (190-92) responded with 15 points and forward Stefano Masciadri (200-89) scored 11 points and 9 rebounds. Four Mazzeo San Severo and five Omegna players scored in double figures. Omegna's coach Giampaolo Di Lorenzo rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Mazzeo San Severo moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Chieti. Loser Omegna dropped to the fourteenth position with four games lost. They share it with Recanati. Mazzeo San Severo will meet Recanati (#15) on the road in the next round. Omegna will play against Casalpusterlengo and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Omegna: M.Toure 15+3reb+3ast, P.Paci 12+6reb+1ast, A.Saccaggi 11+1reb+1ast, S.Masciadri 11+9reb, P.Picazio 10+3reb, M.Jovancic 3+1reb
San Severo: M.Del Brocco 17+10reb, I.Scarponi 17+3reb, R.Maggio 16+2reb+1ast, A.Iannilli 10+13reb+6ast, O.Gueye 5+2reb+4ast, G.Sirakov 4+1reb+1ast

Chieti - Reggio Calabr. 84-66

Very expected game when 19th ranked Reggio Calabr. (1-6) was defeated on the road by fourteenth ranked Chieti (3-4) 84-66 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Chieti. Reggio Calabr. was better in second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Reggio Calabr. 38-25 including 28 on the defensive glass. The former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) fired a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Naturalized San Marino Andrea Raschi (198-79) chipped in 17 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Chieti's coach Domenico Sorgentone used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Gionata Zampolli (189-85) produced 19 points, 7 assists and 4 steals and guard Marco Caprari (195-76) added 19 points respectively for lost side. Chieti moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with San Severo. Reggio Calabr. lost their fifth game in a row. They dropped to the seventeenth position with six games lost. Chieti will face league's second-placed Matera at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Reggio Calabr. will play against Torino (#5).
Top scorers:
Reggio Calabr.: M.Caprari 19+3reb+2ast, G.Zampolli 19+3reb+7ast, F.Quaglia 11+8reb, L.Fontecchio 7+2reb, A.Fabi 5+1ast, M.Ammannato 5+4reb+2ast
Chieti: M.Diomede 23+2reb+1ast, E.Rossi 20+12reb+2ast, A.Raschi 17+9reb+6ast, L.Bolletta 8+7reb, F.Gialloreto 6+2ast, S.Rajola 5+2reb+2ast

Bologna - Agrigento 91-76

Everything could happen in Ozzano Emilia at the game between two tied teams. Both fifth ranked Bologna and 7th ranked Agrigento had identical 4-2 record. This time Bologna used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Agrigento 91-76 on Thursday night. The game was mostly controlled by Bologna. Agrigento was better in fourth quarter 31-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Bologna especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Point guard Alessandro Piazza (174-87) fired a double-double by scoring 11 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists for the winners. Forward Riccardo Pederzini (198-89) chipped in 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Bologna's coach Massimo Padovano used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Riccardo Castelli (200-88) produced 18 points and 9 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!) and guard Paolo Mossi (193-76) added 11 points and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Five Bologna and four Agrigento players scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Bologna. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Lucca and Torino. Newly promoted Agrigento keeps the seventh position with three games lost. Bologna will face Castelletto (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Agrigento will play against Bari and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Agrigento: R.Castelli 18+9reb+1ast, F.Mian 15+2reb, P.Mossi 11+4reb+5ast, V.Di Viccaro 10+2reb+1ast, X.Brown 8+3reb+1ast, G.Anello 6+1reb+1ast
Bologna: V.Circosta 20+2reb, R.Pederzini 17+5reb+4ast, M.Raminelli 14+8reb+1ast, A.Poti 13+5reb, A.Piazza 11+7reb+10ast, E.Chinellato 6+2reb

Perugia - Castelletto 52-86

The game with biggest result difference took place in Perugia. Local Perugia (1-6) was outscored by eleventh ranked Castelletto (4-3) 86-52 on Thursday night. The game without a history. Castelletto led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Perugia's 38. They outrebounded Perugia 38-27 including 27 on the defensive glass. Forward Alex Ranuzzi (195-86, agency: Interperformances) fired 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Forward Francesco Ihedioha (196-86) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Four Castelletto players scored in double figures. Davide Poltroneri (195-85) produced 21 points and 4 assists and forward Simone Bonamente (203-79) added 10 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Castelletto moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Agrigento. Loser Perugia dropped to the seventeenth position with six games lost. Castelletto will face higher ranked Bologna (#4) in Ozzano Emilia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Perugia will play on the road against Mirandola (#17) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Perugia: D.Poltroneri 21+3reb+4ast, S.Bonamente 10+4reb, F.Ramenghi 8+6reb, U.Meschini 5+1reb, M.Bei 4+2reb, C.Cutolo 2+2reb+1ast
Castelletto: F.Bolzonella 19+3reb+1ast, A.Ranuzzi 17+6reb+1ast, M.Pazzi 16+5reb+1ast, F.Ihedioha 14+10reb, A.Simoncelli 7+5reb+2ast, G.Sanguinetti 7+4reb+1ast

Ferrara - Lucca 73-75

Important game to mention about took place in Ferrara. Fourth ranked Lucca (5-2) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging 10th ranked Naturhouse Ferrara (3-3) 75-73 on Thursday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Naturhouse Ferrara cut a 16-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. Lucca made 18-of-19 charity shots (94.7 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Walter Santarossa (200-78) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 7 rebounds. point guard Davide Parente (188-83) contributed with 18 points and 5 steals for the winners. Five Lucca players scored in double figures. Guard Gabriele Spizzichini (194-92) answered with 26 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) and guard Michele Ferri (191-85) added 20 points in the effort for Naturhouse Ferrara. Lucca moved-up to third place, which they share with Torino and Bologna. Naturhouse Ferrara at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the ninth position with three games lost. They share it with Firenze and Casalpusterlengo. Lucca will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Naturhouse Ferrara will play on the road against the league's leader Treviglio (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Ferrara: G.Spizzichini 26+7reb+2ast, M.Ferri 20+3reb+2ast, S.Cortesi 9+8reb, M.Benfatto 8+6reb+1ast, S.Casati 5+3reb, G.Castelletta 4+3reb
Lucca: D.Parente 18+1reb+1ast, W.Santarossa 14+7reb+1ast, D.Banti 12+7reb, M.Negri 12+4reb+2ast, G.Sorrentino 11+4reb, R.Casagrande 6+5reb

Firenze - Treviglio 83-94

Undefeated leader Treviglio delivered the sixth consecutive win on Thursday night. This time they beat 8th ranked Firenze (3-3) 94-83. The game was mostly controlled by Treviglio. Firenze managed to win fourth quarter 26-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Point guard Simone Ferrarese (182-87) fired 22 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. The former international guard Davide Reati (193-88) chipped in 26 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Stefano Spizzichini (202-90) produced 20 points and 7 rebounds and the former international point guard Mattia Caroldi (185-82) added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Treviglio (6-0) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with a perfect record of 6 victories in a row. Firenze at the other side dropped to the ninth position with three games lost. They share it with Ferrara and Casalpusterlengo. Treviglio are looking forward to face Naturhouse Ferrara (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Firenze will play against Latina Basket and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Firenze: S.Spizzichini 20+7reb+1ast, S.Rabaglietti 15+2reb+3ast, M.Caroldi 13+7reb+6ast, D.Casadei 12+6reb, M.Sanna 12+2reb, A.Capitanelli 9+5reb+1ast
Treviglio: D.Reati 26+7reb+3ast, R.Malagoli 24+8reb, S.Ferrarese 22+6reb+8ast, G.Maspero 11+7reb+2ast, N.Cazzolato 5+1reb+1ast, S.Tomasini 2+2ast

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

IVORY COAST

Jonathan Kale selected the top Ivorian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Ivorians who are currently playing abroad.

Jonathan Kale

#1. This week's number one is an international forward Jonathan Kale (203-85, college: Providence, currently plays in Spain). He led Leyma Basquet to a 3-point victory over the eighth-ranked CB Clavijo (2-2) 83-80 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. Kale was MVP of the game. He recorded 15 points and blocked 3 shots in 25 minutes on the court. Leyma Basquet Coruna (4-0) is placed second in the LEB Gold. So far his team won all four games in the Regular Season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Kale's first year with the team. Kale is currently fourth on the list of best blockers with 1.0bpg. He also averaged so far 12.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 51.3%, 3FGP: 66.7% and FT: 71.4% in the four games he played so far. Kale has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and American. He played for the Ivorian senior national team one years ago.

Errick Craven

#2. Second place goes to an international guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC, currently plays in France). Craven led Saint Vallier to a victory over the 16th-ranked Hyeres-Toulon (2-4) 89-84 in the French ProB (second division) last Friday. He was the best player in that game. Craven scored 18 points, had 8 boards, dished 6 assists and stole 3 balls. Saint Vallier Basket Drome (3-3) is placed tenth in the ProB. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's Craven's first year with the team. Craven is ranked first on the list of the best passers in the league and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Craven averages: 15.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 9.0apg, 3.0spg, 2FGP: 50.8%, 3FGP: 30.8% and FT: 73.1%. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and American. Craven played for the Ivorian national team in 2011.

Herve Toure

#3. The Ivorian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Herve Toure (202-82, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProA. He could not help Sluc Nancy (1-3) in their last game. Despite Toure's good performance Sluc Nancy lost in an overtime 79-87 on the road to the higher-ranked (#11) Boulazac Basket. He was the second best scorer with 13 points. Toure also added 6 rebounds in 28 minutes. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. It's Toure's first year with the team. This season his overall stats are: 8.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3spg and FT: 61.1% in the four games. Toure has both Ivorian and French nationalities. He played for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Pape-Philippe Amagou

#4. Guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProA was not able to help Chorale de Roanne (1-3) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Amagou's good performance the bottom-ranked Chorale de Roanne was defeated 87-81 in Orleans by the higher-ranked Entente 45 (#14). He was the second best scorer with 10 points. Amagou also added 4 passes. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. It's Amagou's first season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 10.8ppg, 3.0rpg and 2.8apg. Amagou also holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Despite he played previously for the French U20 national team, Amagou is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Souleyman Diabate

#5. International point guard Souleyman Diabate (183-87, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in France) is a teammate of previously mentioned Herve Toure and both played together in the last French ProA game. Diabate was not able to secure a victory for Sluc Nancy (1-3) in their game against Boulazac Basket (2-2). He recorded 6 points in 36 minutes. Sluc Nancy lost in an overtime 79-87 in Boulazac to the higher-ranked (#11) Basket. This year Diabate has relatively solid stats: 12.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.5apg and 2.0spg in the four games. Similarly like Amagou and Toure above he has dual citizenship: Ivorian and French. Diabate plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

Frejus Zerbo

#6. Center Frejus Zerbo (205-89, currently plays in France) couldn't help Limoges CSP Elite (2-2) in their game against Le Mans (3-1) in the French ProA. He cannot count Friday's game as one of the best ones. Zerbo recorded only 2 points. Limoges CSP Elite was edged 66-65 in Le Mans by the higher-ranked Le Mans (#3). Zerbo's total stats this season are: 3.0ppg and 3.5rpg. He is a former international player as he played for the Ivorian senior team two years ago.

Charles Abouo

#7. Former international swingman Charles Abouo (195-89, college: BYU, currently plays in Spain) couldn't help Lobe Huesca (0-4) in their game against Leche Rio Breogan (3-1) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). Abouo was the second best scorer with 8 points. He also added 3 steals in 32 minutes. Lobe Huesca was crushed 71-43 at home by the much higher-ranked (#3) Leche Rio Breogan. So far Lobe Huesca lost all four games in the Regular Season. This year Abouo's total stats are: 7.3ppg, 5.0rpg and 2.0spg in the four games. He used to play for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Ismael N'Diaye

#8. Forward Ismael N'Diaye (197-82, college: FIU, currently plays in Switzerland) managed to help BC Boncourt Red Team to win against the closely-ranked SAV Vacallo (3-1) 83-79 in the Swiss LNA in Saturday night's game. N'Diaye recorded 5 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. BC Boncourt Red Team (3-1) is placed fifth in the LNA. N'Diaye has averaged so far 7.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.3apg and 1.8spg. He plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

Wilfrid Aka

#9. An experienced international swingman Wilfrid Aka (192-79, currently plays in France) contributed to Blois' victory against the tenth-ranked Union Rennes (2-4) 75-68 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. Aka scored only 4 points in 17 minutes. ADA Blois Basket (5-0) is placed first in the NM1. So far his team won all five games in the Regular Season. Aka has averaged so far 2.5ppg and 1.8rpg in the four games. He is also in the roster of the Ivorian national team.

Issife Soumahoro

   #10. Forward Issife Soumahoro (197-88, currently plays in France) contributed to a 2-point Fos Ouest's victory against the ninth-ranked Chalons-Reims (3-3) 78-76 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. Soumahoro scored only 2 points in 10 minutes. Fos Ouest Provence Basket (2-4) is placed 14th in the ProB. This year Soumahoro averages just 1.2ppg in the six games. He is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Ivorian senior national team.

The list of other players, who all have Ivorian passport but never been selected to any of Ivorian national teams:

   #1. Mohamed Toure (190-G-92, currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian Nazionale A (third division) could not help one of league's weakest teams Omegna (2-4) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Omegna was edged 69-66 on the road by the higher-ranked (#13) Mazzeo San Severo. Toure was the top scorer with 15 points. He also added 3 assists in 26 minutes. This year Toure has relatively solid stats: 11.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.7apg and 1.2spg in the six games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and Italian. Despite Toure's Ivorian passport, he currently plays for the Italian U20 national team and is not eligible to play for the Ivorian team.

   #2. Alain Koffi (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in France) managed to help Le Mans Sarthe Basket to win against the 13th-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (0-4) 66-65 in the French ProA on Friday night. Koffi recorded only 2 points. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (3-1) is placed third in the ProA. Koffi's total stats this season are: 7.0ppg and 4.0rpg. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French.

   #3. Armand Anebo (195-SF-87, currently plays in United Kingdom) contributed to a Leeds Carnegie's victory against the closely-ranked Northumbria (1-0) 68-57 in the British EBL D1 (second division) on Saturday night. Anebo recorded 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. It was his first game for Leeds Carnegie this season. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. His team is placed third in the EBL D1.

   #4. Rolic Medenouvo (194-F-90, currently plays in France) was not able to help Vendee Challans (1-4) in their game against Cognac (5-0) in the French NM1 (third division). Medenouvo cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 1 points. Vendee Challans was edged 87-85 on the opponent's court by the second-ranked Cognac. Medenouvo has averaged so far 5.3ppg and 1.8rpg. He has both Ivorian and French nationalities.

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

JAMAICA

Roy Hibbert selected the top Jamaican playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Jamaicans who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Roy Hibbert

#1. This week's number one is former international center Roy Hibbert (218-86, college: Georgetown, currently plays in NBA). Hibbert led Indiana Pacers to a 2-point victory against the Toronto Raptors (0-1) 90-88 in the NBA last Wednesday. He scored 14 points, grabbed 9 boards, handed out 3 passes and blocked 5 shots. It was his first game for Indiana Pacers this season. His team have 1-0 record this season. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's Hibbert's fifth year with the team. Hibbert is a naturalized American. He played for the Jamaican senior national team two years ago.

Oritseweyinmi Efejuku

#2. Second place goes to an international guard Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-86, college: Providence, currently plays in Mexico). Efejuku was the major contributor in a Fuerza Regia's victory against one of league's weakest teams Gigantes (2-16) 99-83 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) on Friday night. He scored 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks (was perfect 5-for-5 from the free throw line). Fuerza Regia Monterrey (9-8) is placed tenth in the LNBP. Efejuku has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 19.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.7apg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3FGP: 35.7% and FT: 87.2%. Efejuku has a dual citizenship: Nigerian and Jamaican. He is in the roster of the Jamaican senior national team.

Kevin Young

#3. The Jamaican player who performed third best last week abroad was former international center Kevin Young (206-84, college: Missouri, currently plays in Japan). He led Aishin Sea Horses to an easy victory against the league leader Toyota Alvark (7-1) 83-66 in the Japanese JBL last Saturday. Young recorded 11 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Aishin Sea Horses (5-3) are placed third in the JBL. It's Young's first season with the team. His overall stats this year are: 8.0ppg, 7.3rpg, 2FGP: 51.7% and FT: 28.6%. Young played for the Jamaican national team six years ago.

Ryan Reid

#4. Power forward Ryan Reid (203-86, college: Florida St., currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProA could not help Chorale de Roanne (1-3) to beat Entente Orleans 45 (1-3). He recorded 9 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 17 minutes. But the bottom-ranked Chorale de Roanne lost 81-87 on the road to the higher-ranked (#14) Entente Orleans 45. This year Reid's overall stats are: 4.5ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.3apg in the four games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Reid used to play for the Jamaican national team last year.

Ronald Yates

#5. Former international forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's, currently plays in Switzerland) led Fribourg to an easy victory against the league outsider Starwings (0-4) crushing them 85-62 in the Swiss LNA last Saturday. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 27 minutes. Benetton Fribourg Olympic (4-0) is placed first in the LNA. So far his team won all four games in the Regular Season. Yates has relatively good stats this year: 10.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.3apg and 1.8spg in the four games. He is a naturalized American. Yates used to play for the Jamaican national team two years ago.

Patrick Ewing Jr.

#6. Forward Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-84, college: Georgetown, currently plays in Germany) was not able to help Telekom Baskets (2-3) in their game against Deutsche Bank Skyliners (2-4) in the German BBL. He scored 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 23 minutes. Telekom Baskets was crushed 78-53 in Frankfurt by the lower-ranked (#14) Deutsche Bank Skyliners. This year Ewing Jr. has relatively solid stats: 10.2ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.2apg in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Ewing Jr. is an international player who is currently on the senior Jamaican National Team roster.

Akeem Scott

#7. International point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point, currently plays in Mexico) managed to help Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun to win against the 14th-ranked Gansos (3-15) crushing them 103-71 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) in Thursday night's game. He scored only 3 points. Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun (11-11) is placed fifth in the LNBP. This season Scott has very high stats. He averages: 15.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.6apg and 1.6spg. Scott is a naturalized American. Worth to mention Scott played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. He is also Jamaican national team player.

Kimani Ffriend

#8. An experienced center Kimani Ffriend (211-77, agency: Three Eye Sports, college: Nebraska, currently plays in Serbia) was not able to secure a victory for Metalac (2-2) in their game against Borac (1-3) in the Serbian A League. Ffriend cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 2 points in 14 minutes. Metalac was crushed 69-39 in Cacak by the lower-ranked (#11) Borac. This year Ffriend averages just 6.7ppg in the three games. He plays currently for the Jamaican national team.

Courtney Walters

   #9. International forward Courtney Walters (208-87, college: Northwood, FL, currently plays in Switzerland) couldn't help BBC Nyon (1-3) in their game against SAM Massagno (1-3) in the Swiss LNA. Walters recorded 8 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. BBC Nyon was defeated 102-89 in Massagno by the higher-ranked SAM Massagno (#7). Walters' total stats this season are: 7.0ppg and 8.0rpg. He is also in the roster of the Jamaican national team.

The list of other players, who all have Jamaican passport but never been selected to any of Jamaican national teams:

   #1. Adrian Uter (200-F/C-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Hofstra, currently plays in Israel) led Maccabi Rishon to a victory over the fifth-ranked Maccabi T-A (2-1) 81-64 in the Israeli Winner League in Sunday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Uter scored 22 points, had 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 37 minutes. Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (3-0) is placed first in the Winner League. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Uter is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best rebounders (fifth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Uter averages: 20.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.7apg and 3.0bpg in the three games he played so far. He is a naturalized American.

   #2. Orane Chin (200-F-88, college: CS Fullerton, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen could not help one of league's weakest teams Bakken (8-1) in their last game. Despite Chin's very good performance Bakken lost 100-114 on the road to the leading Svendborg. He was the second best scorer with 23 points. Chin also added 4 rebounds in 29 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his first season in pro basketball. It was Bakken's first loss after eight consecutive victories. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Chin has very impressive stats this year: 18.1ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.1apg and 1.1spg in the eight games.

   #3. Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83, college: Richmond, currently plays in Germany) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 72-55 in the German BBL in Saturday night's game. He scored 10 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. TBB Trier (4-1) is placed fourth in the BBL. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. It's Bucknor's first season with the team. This year Bucknor averages: 8.4ppg and 2.6rpg. He has a dual citizenship: Jamaican and Canadian.

   #4. Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, college: Bucknell, currently plays in Germany) was not able to help BBC Bayreuth (4-2) in their game against Bayern Muenchen (4-2) in the German BBL. Bailey was the second best scorer with 8 points. He also added 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 27 minutes. BBC Bayreuth was badly defeated 73-54 in Muenchen by the higher-ranked (#5) Bayern. It's Bailey's first season with the team. Bailey has relatively good stats this year: 12.2ppg, 3.8rpg and 3.8apg in the five games. He is a naturalized American.

   #5. Geoff McDermott (203-F-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Providence, currently plays in Spain) was the main contributor in a Palencia Baloncesto's victory against the 11th-ranked Lleida Basquet (1-3) 67-61 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Sunday night's game. McDermott was MVP of the game. He recorded 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 26 minutes. Palencia Baloncesto (3-1) is placed fourth in the LEB Gold. It's McDermott's first season with the team. McDermott belongs to league's most steals and is ranked #4 with 2.0spg. He also averaged so far 9.0ppg, 5.3rpg and 2.0apg in the four games. McDermott is a naturalized American.

   #6. Sherman Gay (201-PF-82, college: Loyola Mary, currently plays in France) contributed to a 3-point Le Portel's victory against the 11th-ranked Charleville-Mezieres 72-69 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. He scored 12 points, had 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks. This season Gay has very high stats. He averages: 15.8ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.2bpg. Gay is a naturalized American.

   #7. Corey Muirhead (197-F-83, college: W.Carolina, currently plays in Czech Republic) was not able to secure a victory for BK Pardubice in their game against BC Kolin in the Czech Republic NBL. He scored 7 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. His team was defeated 84-73. Muirhead is currently first on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.8ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.6apg and 1.6spg. Muirhead is another player who holds two passports: Canadian and Jamaican.

   #8. McHugh Mattis (198-F-84, college: S.Florida, currently plays in Mexico) contributed to Abejas' victory against the closely-ranked Halcones Rojos 98-85 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) last Thursday. He scored 8 points. Mattis belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #7) and also on the list of best blockers (third place). He has very reliable stats this season: 14.7ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4bpg and 1.5spg. Mattis is a naturalized American.

   #9. Hugh Robinson (202-C-83, currently plays in Sweden) contributed to an easy victory against the 11th-ranked Talje Knights 80-63 in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) on Sunday night. He was MVP of the game. Robinson scored 20 points in 21 minutes. Robinson is currently first on the list of best blockers with 3.0bpg. This year his other stats are: 13.8ppg and 6.5rpg in the six games.

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

KOSOVO

Standings - A1

Liga e pare Standings

1. BC Studenti		0-0
2. Fushe		0-0
3. Futura		0-0
4. Kastrioti		0-0
5. Llapi Podujeve		0-0
6. Malisheva		0-0
7. Skenderaj		0-0
8. Ylli		0-0

Regular Season: Round 1

Nov. 3: Malisheva - Skenderaj
Nov. 3: Ylli - Kastrioti
Nov. 3: Fushe - BC Studenti
Nov. 3: Futura - Llapi Podujeve

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

LATVIA

LBL Standing

LBL Standings

1. VEF Riga		4-0
2. Valmiera		4-1
3. LU		4-2
4. Ventspils		3-1
5. Jurmala		3-2
6. Liepaja		3-2
7. Jekabpils		2-3
8. Jelgava		2-3
9. Barons kvartals		1-4
10. Turiba		0-4
11. U18		0-4

Regular Season: Round 7

Oct. 30: Jelgava - Liepaja 79-62
Oct. 31: Valmiera - Barons kvartals 73-67
Oct. 31: Jurmala - VEF Riga 66-80
Nov. 2: VEF Riga - Jekabpils
Nov. 4: LU - Turiba

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Zanis PEINERS
  LU
  (204-G-90)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Peiners, LU	18.5
2. Gulbis, Barons k.	17.8
3. Apsitis, Turiba	16.3
4. O''Brien, Jekabpils	15.8
5. Krumins, Valmiera	14.4
6. Berzins, Valmiera	14.2
7. Hill jr., Jekabpils	13.6
8. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.	13.5
9. Sokolovs, Turiba	13.5
10. Mednis, Jurmala	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

Todd O''BRIEN
  Jekabpils
  (213-C-89)
  Avg: 9.4

1. O''Brien, Jekabpils	9.4
2. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.	8.5
3. Butjankovs, Valmi.	7.8
4. Mednis, Jurmala	7.8
5. Berzins, Valmiera	7.6
6. Dargais, LU	7.5
7. Mizis, Jelgava	7.0
8. Metra, Barons k.	6.8
9. Magone, Liepaja	6.6
10. Helmanis, Liepaja	6.4

Assists Per Game

Donald SIMS
  Ventspils
  (185-PG-87)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Sims, Ventspils	5.5
2. Ezerskis, Liepaja	5.4
3. Kaufmanis, Valmiera	4.4
4. Metra, Barons k.	4.0
5. Peiners, LU	4.0
6. Krumins, Valmiera	3.8
7. Bertans, VEF Riga	3.8
8. Silavs, Jelgava	3.6
9. Rudmiezis, Turiba	3.3
10. Plavnieks, U18	3.3

Steals Per Game

Vernon TEEL
  Ventspils
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Teel, Ventspils	2.5
2. Rudmiezis, Turiba	2.3
3. Ezerskis, Liepaja	2.2
4. Kanbergs, Jelgava	2.0
5. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.	2.0
6. Daniels, VEF Riga	1.8
7. Coders, Jurmala	1.8
8. Miezis, Barons k.	1.8
9. Sims, Ventspils	1.8
10. Brown, Jurmala	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Jurijs ALEKSEJEVS
  Jekabpils
  (202-C-85)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.	1.5
2. Mednis, Jurmala	1.4
3. Rozitis, Barons k.	1.4
4. O''Brien, Jekabpils	1.2
5. Daniels, VEF Riga	1.0
6. Leiteris, Liepaja	1.0
7. Pasecniks, U18	1.0
8. Veselovs, Valmiera	0.8
9. Ziedins, Valmiera	0.8
10. Brackett, Jelgava	0.8

Mykolaiv waived Rinalds Sirsnins - by Eurobasket News

MBC Mykolaiv (Superleague) waived 27-year old Latvian ex-international point guard Rinalds Sirsnins (186-85). In four Superleague games he played this season he recorded 6.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.5apg and 1.0spg.
The last season he played at BC Rakvere in Estonian league. In 8 Baltic League games last year he averaged impressive 15.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.1apg (top 4) and 2.1spg (in top 3). Sirsnins also played 17 games in Estonian KML where he averaged 13.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.8apg and 1.5spg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Great season indeed as he was voted to Eurobasket.com League All-Imports Team, Honorable Mention and All-Imports Team. Sirsnins also played at DniproAzot that season. In 18 Superleague games he averaged 4.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg and 1.6spg. He played in the final of Baltic League (Challenge Cup).
Sirsnins was voted Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League Defensive Player of the Year in 2010.
He was also a member of Latvian international program for some years. Sirsnins played for Latvian Senior National Team two years ago and previously for U20 National Team between 2003 and 2005. He represented Latvia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 two years ago. His stats at that event were 4 games: 2.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.5apg.
Sirsnins has played previously professionally in Poland (Anwil and Polpharma) and Latvia (Skonto, Valmiera, Barons kvartals, Gulbene and ASK Riga).

By Eurobasket Data Center

Davis Bertans selected the top Latvian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Latvians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Davis Bertans

#1. This week's number one is an international small forward Davis Bertans (203-92, currently plays in Euroleague), who plays in Serbia. He could not help Partizan (0-4) in their last game. Despite Bertans' very good performance the sixth-placed Partizan was edged 85-82 on the road by the leading Regal FC Barcelona in the group D of Euroleague. He was the top scorer with 17 points in 24 minutes on the court. So far Partizan lost all four games in the Regular Season. It's Bertans' first season with the team. This year Bertans averages: 7.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 2FGP: 28.6%, 3FGP: 52.9%(9-17) in the four games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Janis Blums

#2. Second place goes to an international shooting guard Janis Blums (191-82, currently plays in Euroleague). Blums contributed to a Lietuvos rytas' victory against the sixth-ranked Partizan (0-4) 69-61 in the Euroleague last Thursday. He scored 6 points. Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (1-2) is placed fourth in group D. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Blums' overall stats this year are: 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.0apg, 3FGP: 26.7% and FT: 75.0%. He is in the roster of the Latvian senior national team.

Maris Laksa

#3. The Latvian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Maris Laksa (205-81, college: Providence, currently plays in Estonia). Laksa led BC Rakvere to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Valga (3-2) 90-72 in the Estonian KML on Friday night. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 32 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Rakvere Tarvas (3-1) is placed second in the KML. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Laksa belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #4) and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Laksa averages: 17.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.5%, 3FGP: 39.1% and FT: 61.5% in the four games. He played for the Latvian national team nine years ago.

Edgars Cunda

#4. Guard Edgars Cunda (195-84, agency: Court Side, currently plays in Baltic League), who plays in Estonia was not able to help the league outsider Valga (0-5) in their last game on Monday. Despite Cunda's very good performance Valga (#6) was defeated 88-77 in Utena by the higher-ranked Juventus (#3) in the group B of Baltic League. He was the second best scorer with 17 points. Cunda also added 4 rebounds and dished 8 assists. Cunda is currently fourth on the league's list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (fourth place). He has very reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 5.3apg and 2.3spg. Cunda used to play for the Latvian U18 national team back in 2002.

Juris Umbrasko

#5. An experienced former international swingman Juris Umbrasko (197-79, currently plays in Estonia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Maris Laksa and both played together in the last Estonian KML game. Umbrasko was the major contributor in a BC Rakvere's victory against the closely-ranked Valga (3-2) 90-72. He recorded 17 points in 34 minutes. Umbrasko is currently fifth on the list of top scorers with 16.5ppg. This year he also averages: 7.0rpg in the four games. Umbrasko used to play for the Latvian national team four years ago.

Janis Strelnieks

#6. Point guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89, currently plays in Russia) helped Spartak St.Petersburg win their game against the closely-ranked Lokomotiv (2-2) 74-70 in the Russian PBL on Thursday night. He scored 6 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Spartak St.Petersburg (2-0) is placed second in the PBL. But the season just started, so everything may happen. This year Strelnieks averages only 3.0ppg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Latvian National Team roster.

Raitis Grafs

#7. Former international center Raitis Grafs (208-81, college: Valparaiso, currently plays in Baltic League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Edgars Cunda. But that was another game of his team in Baltic League which we would like to mention. Grafs, who plays in Estonia was not able to secure a victory for the league outsider Valga (0-5) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Valga (#6) lost 60-74 in Panevezys to the second-ranked Lietkabelis in the group B of Baltic League. Grafs was the second best scorer with 18 points. He also added 4 rebounds in 30 minutes. Grafs has relatively good stats this year: 12.5ppg and 5.5rpg in the two games. He used to play for the Latvian national team two years ago.

Kaspars Cipruss

#8. Center Kaspars Cipruss (210-82, currently plays in Baltic League), who plays in Lithuania couldn't help Lietkabelis (3-1) in their last game on Monday. Despite Cipruss' good performance Lietkabelis (#2) was defeated 76-72 at home by the leading TU/Rock in the group B of Baltic League. He scored 11 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Cipruss is currently third on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). His overall stats this season are: 10.0ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.5apg and 1.3bpg. Cipruss used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2008.

Ivars Timermanis

#9. Former international forward Ivars Timermanis (203-82, currently plays in Romania) led Ploiesti to an overtime victory against the closely-ranked U-Mobitelco (4-1) 103-96 in the Romanian Division A in Sunday night's game. Timermanis scored 19 points. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (3-2) is placed eighth in the Division A. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. Timermanis' overall stats this season are: 8.0ppg and 1.6rpg. He used to play for the Latvian national team five years ago.

Ernests Kalve

   #10. Forward Ernests Kalve (200-87, currently plays in Adriatic League) led his Hungarian team Szolnok to a victory against the seventh-ranked KK Split (3-3) 75-67 in the Adriatic League last Saturday. Kalve scored 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in a mere 19 minutes. Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (2-4) is placed second from the bottom (#13) in the Adriatic League. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. Kalve is currently third on the list of best blockers with 1.0bpg. This year he also averages: 10.7ppg, 3.3rpg and 1.7spg in the six games. Kalve is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Latvian senior national team.

   #11. Former University international guard Martins Kravcenko (192-85, currently plays in Ukraine) led Mykolaiv to a victory over the seventh-ranked Hoverla 77-72 in the Ukrainian Superleague on Friday night. He was MVP of the game. Kravcenko scored 18 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. His overall stats this season are: 7.8ppg, 2.1rpg and 2.0apg. Kravcenko used to play for the Latvian university national team three years ago.

   #12. International swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85, currently plays in Italy) helped Prima Veroli win their game against the league leader Upea CdO 65-61 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. This season Jurevicus has relatively solid stats: 11.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.0apg and 1.3spg. He used to play for the Latvian national team last year.

   #13. International small forward Rihards Kuksiks (197-88, college: Arizona St., currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB couldn't help the league outsider Lagun Aro GBC (0-5) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Kuksiks' good performance the bottom-ranked Lagun Aro GBC was defeated 86-75 on their home court in San Sebastian by the higher-ranked Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (#15). He scored 13 points. Kuksiks has reliable stats this season: 11.0ppg, 2.3rpg and 1.3spg. He is also Latvian national team player.

   #14. International point guard Edgars Jeromanovs (186-86, currently plays in Sweden), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan couldn't help Norrkoping Dolphins (6-0) in their last game. Despite Jeromanovs' good performance the league leader Norrkoping Dolphins lost 68-81 in Stockholm to the lower-ranked (#6) 08 Stockholm. He was the second best scorer with 10 points. Jeromanovs also added 4 rebounds and 8 assists in 29 minutes. Jeromanovs is ranked third on the list of the best passers in the league with 5.1apg. This year he also averages: 12.8ppg, 3.4rpg and 1.6spg in the eight games. Jeromanovs plays currently for the Latvian national team.

   #15. International point guard Kaspars Vecvagars (193-93, currently plays in Baltic League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kaspars Cipruss. He played also in the last Baltic League game facing Raitis Grafs (above) in the other team. Vecvagars helped his Lithuanian team Lietkabelis win their game against the sixth-ranked Valga 74-60. He scored 9 points. Vecvagars' overall stats this season are: 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.3apg. He is also in the roster of the Latvian national team.

The list of other players, who all have Latvian passport but never been selected to any of Latvian national teams:

   #1. Martins Berkis (198-F-85, agency: TSS Management, currently plays in Hungary) led Marso NYKK to a victory over the closely-ranked ZTE KK (1-4) crushing them 82-60 in the Hungarian A Division on Saturday night. He was MVP of the game. Berkis scored 22 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists in 39 minutes. Marso NYKK (2-3) is placed eighth in the A Division. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Berkis has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 19.4ppg, 3.8rpg and 1.8apg in the five games he played so far.

   #2. Edmunds Tukiss (200-SF-89, currently plays in Germany) contributed to a 2-point Dragons Rhoendorf's victory against the fourth-ranked Fraport Skyliners II (3-2) 84-82 in the German ProB (third division) in Sunday night's game. He scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 20 minutes. Dragons Rhoendorf (5-0) is placed first in Group South. So far his team won all five games in the Regular Season. This year Tukiss has relatively solid stats: 11.0ppg and 2.6rpg in the five games.

   #3. Gary Gandel (203-G/F-80, currently plays in Israel) was the main contributor in a Maccabi K/G's victory against the 11th-ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (0-3) 79-66 in the Israeli National League (second division) on Tuesday night. Gandel was the best player in that game. He had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 13 rebounds. Gandel also added 4 assists in 34 minutes. Maccabi Kiryat Gat (0-2) is placed first in the National League. Gandel has reliable stats this year: 13.3ppg, 7.7rpg and 2.7apg in the three games. He has a dual citizenship: Latvian and Israeli.

   #4. Rihards Sulcs (190-F-87, currently plays in United Kingdom) contributed to a Bradford Dragons' victory against the eighth-ranked Brixton Topcats (0-1) 76-68 in the British EBL D1 (second division) last Saturday. Sulcs was the best player in that game. He recorded 14 points and had 4 steals. It was his first game for Bradford Dragons this season. His team is placed first in the EBL D1. Sulcs belongs to league's most steals and is ranked #3.

   #5. Ugis Promolds (190-G-88, currently plays in Denmark) managed to help SISU Copenhagen in a victory against the sixth-ranked Aarhus BC (4-5) crushing them 75-50 in the Danish Ligaen on Sunday night. He scored only 2 points in 10 minutes. SISU Copenhagen (6-0) is placed first in the Ligaen. So far his team won all six games in the Regular Season. This year Promolds averages just 1.3ppg in the six games.

   #6. Matiss Sakne (191-G-91, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen could not help one of league's weakest teams Horsens IC to beat Bakken. He cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. Sakne scored only 2 points. His team was defeated 92-81. Sakne's overall stats this season are: 4.1ppg, 1.2rpg and 1.3apg.

   #7. Daumants Pabrieza (186-G, currently plays in United Kingdom) is a teammate of previously mentioned Rihards Sulcs and both played together in the last British EBL D1 game. Pabrieza helped Bradford Dragons win their game against the eighth-ranked Brixton Topcats 76-68. He recorded 6 points. It was his first game for Bradford Dragons this season.

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

LIGA SUDAMERICANA

Standings

Liga Sudamericana Standings

Group A
1. Obras			2-1
2. Pinheiros/Sky			2-1
3. Cent.Apure			2-1
4. Mavort			0-3
Group B
1. Regatas C.			3-0
2. Uniceub/BRB			2-1
3. Malvin			1-2
4. Amistad			0-3
Group C
1. Penarol			3-0
2. Flamengo			2-1
3. Dep.Castro			1-2
4. Hebraica			0-3
Group D
1. Libertad S.			1-0
2. Tiburones			1-0
3. El Bosque			0-1
4. S.Jose/Unimed			0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 4

Nov. 1: S.Jose/Unimed - Libertad S. 71-84
Nov. 1: Tiburones - El Bosque 108-74
Nov. 2: Libertad S. - El Bosque
Nov. 2: S.Jose/Unimed - Tiburones
Nov. 3: El Bosque - S.Jose/Unimed
Nov. 3: Tiburones - Libertad S.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Paulinho BORACINI
  Pinheiro.
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 28

1. Boracini, Pinheiro.	28.0
2. Guzman, Mavort	24.0
3. Baxley, Hebraica	23.0
4. Giovannoni, Unice.	22.3
5. Osimani, Obras	21.3
6. Gutierrez, Obras	20.7
7. Matthews, Cent..	19.7
8. Velasquez, Dep.C.	19.7
9. Smith, Pinheiro.	19.3
10. Sloan, Mavort	19.3

Rebounds Per Game

Hatila PASSOS
  Hebraica
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Passos, Hebraica	12.3
2. Fuller, Mavort	11.3
3. Ferreira, Pinheiro.	9.3
4. Colmenares, Cent..	9.3
5. Smith, Amistad	9.3
6. Gutierrez, Obras	9.0
7. Leiva, Penarol	9.0
8. McFarlin, Amistad	9.0
9. Teague, Penarol	8.7
10. Guzman, Mavort	8.3

Assists Per Game

Welington DOS SANTOS
  Unice.
  (185-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.7

1. Dos Santos, Unice.	7.7
2. Osimani, Obras	7.3
3. Martinez, Regat.	6.7
4. Ribeiro, Un.	6.3
5. Fitipaldo, Malvin	6.3
6. Cardenas, Mavort	5.7
7. Quinteros, Regat.	4.5
8. Campazzo, Penarol	4.3
9. Myvett, Amistad	4.3
10. Munoz, Dep.Castro	4.3

Steals Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Campazzo, Penarol	3.3
2. Ferreira, Pinheiro.	2.3
3. Magalhaes, Flame.	2.3
4. Benite, Flamengo	2.3
5. Colmenares, Cent..	2.3
6. Osimani, Malvin	2.0
7. Sloan, Mavort	2.0
8. Quinteros, Regat.	2.0
9. Teague, Penarol	1.7
10. Smith, Amistad	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Leonardo MORRO
  Pinheiro.
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 2

1. Morro, Pinheiro.	2.0
2. Leiva, Penarol	2.0
3. Clay, Dep.Castro	2.0
4. de Souza, Un.	1.7
5. Ferreira, Pinheiro.	1.7
6. Newsome, Malvin	1.3
7. Fuller, Mavort	1.3
8. Espinoza, Obras	1.3
9. Reis, Un.	1.0
10. Kammerichs, Regat.	1.0

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

LITHUANIA

Neptunas and Juventus grab the thrilling wins - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas and Juventus grab the thrilling wins last night.
Neptunas needed overtime to beat Tsmoki-Minsk 110:106 in VTB league. The Lithuanian team lost the first period 19-25 but won the second frame 33-22 and then extra time 20-16. Martynas Mazeika (191-G-85, agency: Interperformances) top-scored for the winners with 33 points and Deividas Gailius (200-F-88) posted 19. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-SG-80) replied with 37 points in the losing effort and Aliaksandr Pustahvar (202-SF-85) brought 13.
Juventus beat TU/Rock 99:87 in Baltic League. Juventus looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by TU/Rock helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Laimonas Kisielius (203-F-85, college: William & Mary) scored 22 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Darius Gvezdauskas chipped in 17 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was Justin Ingram (188-PG-85, agency: Two Points, college: Toledo) with 27 points and center Joosep Toome (208-C-85) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds.

EuroLeague: Zalgiris Kaunas edge EA7 Emporio Armani in front of 15000 fans - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris Kaunas - EA7 Emporio Armani 92:87

Zalgiris Kaunas edge EA7 Emporio Armani in front of 15000 fans for the perfect 4-0 record. The Lithuanian team continued their winning streak after 92:87 win.
It was not sweet in the start of the game for the hosts that lost the first period 20-27. The Italian team increased to 10 points, but the hosts cut it to 51:47 at the halftime. Zalgiris Kaunas added 25-14 in the third quarter and enjoyed 7-point deficit after three quarters. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) scored for 89:84 and then Keith Langford (193-SG-83, college: Kansas) made two free throws to reduce to just three points. Omar-Sharif Cook (188-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) made just one for 89:87 and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) scored one free throw for 90:87 with 21 seconds to go. Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston) went on the free throw line with 3 seconds remaining and increased the victory to 5 points.
Oliver Lafayette paced all the winners with 17 points and Ibrahim Jaaber (187-PG-84, college: Pennsylvania) notched 11. Ksistof Lavrinovic scored 10, while Marko Popovic, Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) and Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) had 9 apiece. Keith Langford replied with 24 points in the losing effort and Malik Hairston (198-G/F-87, college: Oregon) added 21. Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81) and Alessandro Gentile (200-G/F-92) had 11 points each in defeat.

Zalgiris Kaunas: Oliver Lafayette 17, Ibrahim Jaaber 11, Ksistof Lavrinovic 10, Marko Popovic 9, Tremmell Darden 9, Darjus Lavrinovic 9
EA7 Emporio Armani: Keith Langford 24, Malik Hairston 21, Antonis Fotsis 11, Alessandro Gentile 11

Jonas Maciulis selected the top Lithuanian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Lithuanians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Jonas Maciulis

#1. This week's number one is an international swingman Jonas Maciulis (199-85, currently plays in Euroleague). He led his Greek team Panathinaikos to a victory over the closely-ranked Union Olimpija (1-2) 85-67 in the Euroleague in Friday night's game. Maciulis was MVP of the game. He scored 18 points, had 4 rebounds and dished 5 assists in 26 minutes on the court. Panathinaikos Athens (2-2) is placed third in group A. Maciulis has relatively good stats this year: 10.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 64.7%(11-17), 3FGP: 33.3% in the four games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Darius Songaila

#2. Second place goes to an experienced international power forward Darius Songaila (204-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest, currently plays in VTB United League). Songaila was the major contributor in a BC Donetsk's victory against the closely-ranked Azovmash (1-3) 75-68 in the VTB United League last Sunday. He recorded 25 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. BC Donetsk (2-2) is placed sixth in group A. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Songaila's first year with the team. Songaila is currently fourth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Songaila averages: 17.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.0apg, 3.3spg, 2FGP: 59.5%(22-37) and FT: 88.9%. He is in the roster of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Donatas Zavackas

#3. The Lithuanian player who performed third best last week abroad was former U20 international forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh, currently plays in VTB United League), who plays in Latvia. Zavackas could not help VEF Riga (2-2) in their last game. Despite his good performance the fifth-placed VEF Riga was edged in an overtime 96-93 on the road by the higher-ranked (#3) Enisey Krasnoyarsk in the group B of VTB United League. Zavackas had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 12 rebounds in 37 minutes. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's Zavackas' first year with the team. This season his overall stats are: 6.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 25.0%, 3FGP: 33.3% and FT: 71.4% in the four games. Zavackas played for the Lithuanian U20 national team twelve years ago.

Jonas Valanciunas

#4. Center Jonas Valanciunas (211-92, currently plays in NBA) was not able to help the Toronto Raptors (0-1) in their game against the Indiana Pacers (1-0) in the NBA. Despite his good performance in Wednesday night's game He recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 10 rebounds. It was his first game for Toronto Raptors this season. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. It's Valanciunas' first year with the team. Valanciunas is also Lithuanian national team player.

Martynas Gecevicius

#5. International guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-88, currently plays in Greece) contributed to an easy victory against the 12th-ranked Ikaros (1-2) crushing them 97-53 in the Greek A1 last Sunday. He scored 10 points in 16 minutes. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (3-0) is placed second in the A1. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. This year Gecevicius averages only 7.5ppg in the two games. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team last year.

Martynas Pocius

#6. Shooting guard Martynas Pocius (196-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke, currently plays in Spain) managed to help Real Madrid to win in overtime against the seventh-ranked Caja Laboral (3-2) 83-81 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. Pocius scored 5 points. Real Madrid (5-0) is placed first in the ACB. So far his team won all five games in the Regular Season. Pocius' total stats this season are: 5.8ppg and 1.4rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Lithuanian National Team roster.

Antanas Kavaliauskas

#7. International center Antanas Kavaliauskas (207-84, also represented by Interperformances, college: Texas A&M, currently plays in VTB United League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Donatas Zavackas and both played together in the last VTB United League game. Kavaliauskas was not able to secure a victory for VEF Riga (2-2) in their game against Enisey Krasnoyarsk (2-1), despite his very good performance in Sunday night's game. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 35 minutes. But VEF Riga (#5) was edged in an overtime 96-93 in Krasnoyarsk by the higher-ranked (#3) Enisey in the group B of VTB United League. This year Kavaliauskas has relatively solid stats: 11.8ppg and 5.5rpg in the four games. He is also Lithuanian national team player.

Tautvydas Lydeka

#8. Power forward Tautvydas Lydeka (208-83, currently plays in VTB United League) was the main contributor in a 2-point Krasnie Krilya's victory against the tenth-ranked PGE Turow (0-4) 76-74 in the VTB United League last Sunday. Lydeka was the best player in that game. He recorded 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Krasnie Krilya Samara (2-2) is placed fifth in group A. It's Lydeka's first season with the team. Lydeka's total stats this year are: 10.0ppg and 2.8rpg. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team back in 2006.

Dainius Salenga

#9. Former international forward Dainius Salenga (197-77, currently plays in Ukraine) couldn't help Budivelnyk (7-3) in their game against DniproAzot (2-6) in the Ukrainian Superleague, despite his very good performance on Sunday night. Salenga scored 14 points, had 8 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 27 minutes. But Budivelnyk lost 89-93 at home to the much lower-ranked (#11) DniproAzot. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Salenga's total stats are: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.0apg and 1.5spg in the 10 games. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team seven years ago.

Michailis Anisimovas

   #10. Center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84, currently plays in Ukraine) is a teammate of previously mentioned Dainius Salenga and both played together in the last Ukrainian Superleague game. Anisimovas couldn't help Budivelnyk (7-3) in their game against DniproAzot (2-6). Despite his very good performance in Sunday night's game He was the second best scorer with 16 points. Anisimovas also added 4 rebounds. Anisimovas is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Budivelnyk's roster. He has reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 5.2rpg and 1.7apg. Anisimovas is a former university international player as five years ago he still played for the Lithuanian national team.

   #11. Former University international center Egidijus Dimsa (205-85, currently plays in Baltic League) couldn't help TU/Rock in their game against Juventus in the Baltic League, despite his very good performance last Wednesday. He scored 13 points in a mere 18 minutes. But his team lost 87-99. Dimsa has averaged so far 8.7ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.3apg in the six games. He used to play for the Lithuanian university national team three years ago.

   #12. Former University international guard Vaidotas Peciukas (199-82, college: Hawaii, currently plays in Romania) contributed to a Targu Mures' victory against the closely-ranked Giurgiu 84-70 in the Romanian Division A on Saturday night. Peciukas was the top player that evening. He scored 16 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 4 assists. Peciukas averaged so far 12.8ppg, 3.0rpg and 2.0apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian university national team back in 2005.

   #13. Former U21 international power forward Valdas Dabkus (204-84, currently plays in Poland) helped Energa Czarni win their game against the tenth-ranked Anwil 82-64 in the Polish TBL in Sunday night's game. Dabkus scored 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds (was perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line) in 16 minutes. He has averaged so far 9.8ppg and 6.6rpg in the five games. Dabkus used to play for the Lithuanian U21 national team nine years ago.

   #14. International point guard Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-76, college: Maryland, currently plays in Euroleague) helped his Spanish team Regal FC Barcelona win their game against the sixth-ranked Partizan 85-82 in the Euroleague last Thursday. He recorded only 4 points. This season Jasikevicius averages just 3.0ppg. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

   #15. Former U20 international point guard Evaldas Zabas (188-88, currently plays in Czech Republic) couldn't help BK Pardubice in their game against BC Kolin in the Czech Republic NBL, despite his very good performance on Wednesday night. Zabas was the top scorer with 21 points. He also added 4 rebounds in 29 minutes. But his team lost 73-84. Zabas is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league with 18.8ppg. This year his other stats are: 3.0rpg and 3.0apg in the five games. Zabas used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team four years ago.

The list of other players, who all have Lithuanian passport but never been selected to any of Lithuanian national teams:

   #1. Zygimantas Jonusas (200-F-82, currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian SerieA could not help Juvecaserta (2-3) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his good performance Juvecaserta was crushed 86-57 on the road by the much higher-ranked Lottomatica Roma (#6). Jonusas was the second best scorer with 13 points. Jonusas has averaged so far 9.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.5apg and 1.3spg.

   #2. Experienced Christopher Young (206-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Michigan, currently plays in Belgium) was not able to help Okapi Aalstar (3-1) in their game against Belfius Mons-Hainaut (2-2) in the Belgian Ethias League. He recorded 5 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. The league leader Okapi Aalstar was defeated 82-78 in Quaregnon by the lower-ranked Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#6). It was Okapi Aalstar's first loss after three consecutive victories. Young is ranked third on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has averaged so far 5.8ppg, 6.3rpg and 1.5bpg. Young is a naturalized American. Strangely he has never played in Lithuania.

   #3. Donatas Visockis (208-C-86, college: Portland St., currently plays in Cyprus) managed to help Papa Johns Omonia Nicosia in a victory against the closely-ranked Apollon (0-1) 101-87 in the Cypriot Division A in Sunday night's game. Visockis recorded only 4 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 21 minutes. It was his first game for Omonia this season. His team is placed fourth in the Division A. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical.

   #4. Arturas Masiulis (210-C-80, currently plays in United Kingdom) contributed to an easy victory against one of league's weakest teams Sheffield One Health Sharks (1-5) 82-66 in the British BBL last Saturday. Masiulis scored 8 points, grabbed 4 boards, handed out 3 passes and blocked 2 shots. Worcester Wolves (5-4) is placed fourth in the BBL. Masiulis averaged so far 10.6ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.8apg.

   #5. Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Spain) led Leche Rio Breogan to a victory over one of league's weakest teams Lobe Huesca (0-4) crushing them 71-43 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. He was the top player that evening. Leonavicius recorded 11 points and added 3 passes in 24 minutes. Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (3-1) is placed third in the LEB Gold. Leonavicius has averaged so far 10.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg and 1.3spg in the four games he played so far.

   #6. Mantas Griskenas (200-F-85, college: Wichita St., currently plays in Romania) was the major contributor in a CSU Sibiu's victory against the closely-ranked CS Dinamo Bucuresti crushing them 89-58 in the Romanian Division A on Saturday night. He scored 15 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Griskenas averaged so far 12.2ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.4apg.

   #7. Paulus Barauskas (201-C-81, currently plays in Sweden) was not able to secure a victory for Hoganas in their game against Boras II in the Swedish Basketettan (second division). Despite his very good performance last Saturday He was the second best scorer with 23 points. Barauskas also added 8 rebounds. Barauskas averaged so far 11.7ppg and 5.3rpg.

   #8. Linas Savickas (197-C/F-79, currently plays in Sweden) is a teammate of previously mentioned Paulus Barauskas and both played together in the last Swedish Basketettan game. Savickas couldn't help Hoganas in their game against Boras II, despite his very good performance on Saturday night. He was the top scorer with 25 points. Savickas also added 4 rebounds (went 11 for 11 at the free throw line !!!) in 23 minutes. But his team was edged 100-97. Savickas averaged so far 11.9ppg and 6.3rpg in the seven games.

   #9. Aurimas Baltrokonis (190-F/G-83, currently plays in Sweden) is a teammate of previously mentioned Paulus Barauskas. He played also in the last Swedish Basketettan game facing Linas Savickas (above) in the other team. Baltrokonis couldn't help Hoganas in their game against Boras II. Despite his very good performance in Saturday night's game He scored 20 points, had 4 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Baltrokonis averaged so far 12.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.2apg and 2.2spg.

   #10. Nerijus Brasas (200-F-85, currently plays in Denmark) contributed to Naestved's victory against the league outsider Aalborg 84-70 in the Danish Ligaen on Wednesday night. He recorded 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. Brasas has averaged so far 7.8ppg and 4.8rpg in the nine games.

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

MEXICO

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings

1. Halc.Xalapa		18-1
2. Toros		16-2
3. Soles		15-4
4. Halc.Rojos		14-5
5. Panteras		12-7
6. Pioneros		12-7
7. Abejas		10-9
8. Barreteros		10-9
9. Fuerza Regia		9-8
10. Huracanes		9-8
11. Corr.Victoria		7-12
12. Lechugueros		6-13
13. Guerreros		4-14
14. Gansos		3-16
15. Gigantes		2-17
16. Osos		2-17

Regular Season: Round 19

Nov. 1: Panteras - Abejas 93-91
Nov. 1: Corr.Victoria - Halc.Xalapa 91-102
Nov. 1: Huracanes - Halc.Rojos 86-88
Nov. 1: Osos - Pioneros 81-96
Nov. 1: Barreteros - Lechugueros 78-87
Nov. 1: Gigantes - Soles 76-89
Nov. 1: Toros - Gansos 106-78
Nov. 2: Fuerza Regia - Guerreros
Nov. 2: Toros - Gansos

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

MOROCCO

Standings - Men

D1 Standings

1. ASS Sale		0-0
2. CMC		0-0
3. CRA Hoceima		0-0
4. FUS Rabat		0-0
5. MAF Fes		0-0
6. MCO		0-0
7. PCS Plazza C.		0-0
8. RSB Berkane		0-0
9. RST Tanger		0-0
10. WAC Casabl.		0-0

Regular Season: Round 1

Dec. 1: ASS Sale - PCS Plazza C.
Dec. 1: WAC Casabl. - FUS Rabat
Dec. 1: RSB Berkane - MCO
Dec. 1: CRA Hoceima - CMC
Dec. 1: RST Tanger - MAF Fes

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

NBA

Standings

NBA Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 3

Nov. 1: San Antonio S. - Oklah.City T. 86-84

Regular Season: Round 4

Nov. 2: Charlotte B. - Indiana P.
Nov. 2: Orlando M. - Denver N.
Nov. 2: Boston C. - Milwaukee B.
Nov. 2: Atlanta H. - Houston R.
Nov. 2: Cleveland C. - Chicago B.
Nov. 2: New York K. - Miami Heat
Nov. 2: N.Orleans H. - Utah Jazz
Nov. 2: Oklah.City T. - Portland TB
Nov. 2: Minnesota T. - Sacramento K.
Nov. 2: Phoenix Suns - Detroit P.
Nov. 2: LA Lakers - LA Clippers
Nov. 2: Golden St.W. - Memphis G.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-SG-78)
  Avg: 26

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	26.0
2. Howard, LA Lakers	26.0
3. Duncan, San A.	22.0
4. Gasol, LA Lakers	19.5
5. Parker, San A.	18.5
6. Collison, Dallas M.	17.0
7. Wright, Dallas M.	14.5
8. Leonard, San A.	12.5
9. Mayo, Dallas M.	12.0
10. Carter, Dallas M.	11.5

Rebounds Per Game

Dwight HOWARD
  LA Lakers
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 12

1. Howard, LA Lakers	12.0
2. Gasol, LA Lakers	11.0
3. Marion, Dallas M.	10.0
4. Duncan, San A.	9.5
5. Brand, Dallas M.	9.0
6. Leonard, San A.	5.5
7. World Peace, LA La.	5.5
8. Diaw, San A.	5.5
9. Jackson, San A.	5.5
10. Hill, LA Lakers	4.5

Assists Per Game

Tony PARKER
  San A.
  (188-PG-82)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Parker, San A.	8.5
2. Collison, Dallas M.	5.5
3. Diaw, San A.	5.0
4. Blake, LA Lakers	4.5
5. Gasol, LA Lakers	4.0
6. Marion, Dallas M.	4.0
7. Nash, LA Lakers	4.0
8. Howard, LA Lakers	3.5
9. World Peace, LA La.	3.0
10. Neal, San A.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Kawhi LEONARD
  San A.
  (200-F-91)
  Avg: 5

1. Leonard, San A.	5.0
2. World Peace, LA La.	2.0
3. Collison, Dallas M.	2.0
4. Brand, Dallas M.	2.0
5. Blake, LA Lakers	1.5
6. Beaubois, Dallas M.	1.5
7. Diaw, San A.	1.5
8. Jackson, San A.	1.0
9. Green, San A.	1.0
10. Howard, LA Lakers	0.5

Blocks Per Game

Tim DUNCAN
  San A.
  (211-F/C-76)
  Avg: 3

1. Duncan, San A.	3.0
2. Wright, Dallas M.	2.5
3. Gasol, LA Lakers	1.5
4. Brand, Dallas M.	1.5
5. Diaw, San A.	1.0
6. Green, San A.	1.0
7. Howard, LA Lakers	1.0
8. Beaubois, Dallas M.	0.5
9. Nash, LA Lakers	0.5
10. World Peace, LA L.	0.5

Buzzer-beater from San Antonio's Tony Parker sinks Oklahoma City Thunder - by Eurobasket News

San Antonio S. - Oklah.City T. 86-84
FRENCHMAN Tony Parker (6'2''-PG-82) sank the game-winning jump shot as time expired to give San Antonio Spurs an 86-84 victory over Oklahoma City Thunder. Tim Duncan scored 20 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Parker added 14 points and 11 assists to spark the triumph. The Spurs became the first 2-0 team in the NBA by spoiling the Thunder's season opener in a rematch of last year's NBA Western Conference finals. The Thunder ousted the Spurs, but lost to Miami in the NBA finals. Reigning NBA scoring champion Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) netted a game-high 23 points and pulled down a game-high 14 rebounds while Russell Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA), who joined Durant on the Olympic gold medal US team in August, added 18 points for Oklahoma City. Parker sank a three-pointer from the left corner with 28 seconds to play to lift the Spurs into an 84-84 deadlock and San Antonio took the ball after a turnover by Russell Westbrook on the final Oklahoma City possession. Parker then eluded Russell Westbrook off a screen and took the ball on the left side and sank the winning shot. Courtesy of: heraldsun.com.au

Troy Murphy signs at The Mavericks - by Eurobasket

Dallas Mavericks landed 32-year old forward Troy Murphy (211-111kg-80, college: Notre Dame). Murphy played recently at LA Lakers. In 63 NBA games last season he averaged 3.0ppg and 3.1rpg. He helped them to win the Pacific Division title.
In 2001 Murphy was drafted by Golden State Warriors in first round (14th overall). He attended University of Notre Dame and it will be his twelfth (!!!) season in pro basketball.
Murphy was selected to NBA All-Star Game All-Sophmores Team back in 2003.
He has played previously for three other NBA teams: Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @WojYahooNBA)

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

NCAA1

Murray State suspends sophomore guard Jackson for the season - by Eurobasket News

MURRAY, Ky. Murray State has suspended sophomore guard Zay Jackson (6'0''-G-92) for the 2012-13 season.

Jackson had been suspended indefinitely last month after his arrest after striking two people with his car in a Wal-Mart parking lot following an altercation. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 12 to wanton endangerment and was to be sentenced Monday.

However, the case was delayed when the judge recused himself, and then a surveillance video was released showing Jackson driving around the parking lot with one of the victims on the hood of his Chevy Monte Carlo.

Athletics director Allen Ward referenced the video when announcing that the suspension had been extended, saying that besides meeting his legal obligations, Jackson would have to go above and beyond the steps required to be an exemplary citizen to be reinstated.

It goes without saying that Zay showed a considerable lack of judgment that has not only embarrassed himself, but his team, the university and our fans as well, Ward said.

I will not condone such behavior. He is fortunate that the results of his actions were not more harmful than they were. But if we truly care about making a difference in his life, it is imperative that he spends this year showing me and Coach (Steve) Prohm that he is remorseful, getting the help that he needs, and deserving of a second chance.

As a freshman reserve Jackson averaged 4.9 points, 2.3 assists and 2.1 rebounds. He was projected to start this season for the Racers, who open the season Nov. 9 against Brescia, an NAIA member.

Jackson is due back in court on Nov. 13.
Courtesy of: The Associated Press

Countdown to Tipoff: Duke Blue Devils - by Eurobasket News

Mike Krzyzewski , Duke Head Coach
Entering the 2012-13 season, Mike Krzyzewski owns a 927-291 (.761) career record in 37 years of coaching, including a 854-232 (.786) mark in 32 seasons at Duke ... Krzyzewski is the all-time leader in career men's Division I coaching victories, having surpassed his college coach and mentor Bob Knight's prevous record of 902 earlier last season ... named ACC Coach of the Year five times and National Coach of the Year 12 times in eight different years, Krzyzewski has directed the Blue Devils to 10 ACC titles in the past 14 years and 13 times overall - tied for best in league history ... Krzyzewski's Blue Devils have won four NCAA titles (1991, 1992, 2001 and 2010) ... he owns an NCAA-record 12 30-win seasons and 27 seasons with 20 or more wins, including 11 straight 20-win seasons from 1984 to 1994, averaging 28.3 wins in the process ... Duke's total of 37 wins in 1999 matched its own 1986 standard for most victories in a season in NCAA history ... Krzyzewski is only the second coach in NCAA history to take his team to five straight Final Fours (1988-92) and also made it to the Final Four in 1986, 1994, 1999, 2001, 2004 and 2010 ... he has guided the Blue Devils to postseason play in 29 of his 32 seasons, including an active streak of 17 consecutive NCAA appearances ... Krzyzewski is the nation's all-time leader with 79 NCAA Tournament wins and has a 79-24 (.767) mark in NCAA Tournament games ... Duke's 1999 team set an ACC single-season record with 16 regular-season league wins ... during his tenure in Durham, 45 Blue Devils have been selected in the annual NBA Draft, including 25 in the first round ... in 1992, he became the first college coach to be named Sportsman of the Year by the The Sporting News.

Returning players

Seth Curry (6'2''-G-90), Sr., Guard
Earned third-team All-ACC honors a year ago after finishing second on the team and 13th in the ACC in scoring (13.2) ... led the ACC and was 22nd nationally in free throw percentage (.873) ... one of two Blue Devils to average over 30 minutes per game in 2012 ... had 22 double-figure scoring games a year ago, including four outings with 20 or more points ... in two years with the Blue Devils, is shooting .408 from behind the arc (128-of-314) and .837 from the charity stripe (170-of-203).

Mason Plumlee (6'10''-F-90), Sr., Center
A third-team All-ACC selection as a junior in 2012 ... was third in the ACC in double-doubles (12), fourth in rebounds (9.2), fifth in blocked shots (1.6) and fifth in offensive rebounds (2.9) ... a CoSIDA Academic All-America and a member of the 2012 All-ACC Academic team ... tied for third in the ACC with 16 games of 10-or-more rebounds ... over the last five games of the season averaged 13.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.2 blocked shots while shooting .667 from the floor.

Ryan Kelly (6'11''-F-91), Sr., Forward
Averaged career-bests in points (11.8), rebounds (5.4) and minutes played (25.9) in 2012 ... finished ninth in the ACC in free throw percentage (.807) and 17th in both scoring and rebounds ... one of four Blue Devils to average in double figures ... had 18 games with 10-or-more points and turned in double-doubles against Penn (J1) and Wake Forest (J19) ... missed Duke's two ACC Tournament games and the NCAA Tournament loss to Lehigh with an ankle sprain.

Tyler Thornton (6'1''-G-92), Jr., Guard
Started the last 13 games of the season, 19 times overall ... averaged 4.1 points, 2.0 assists and 1.9 rebounds while playing in all 34 games ... averaged 31.0 minutes, 7.0 points and 2.3 assists over the last six games of the season ... had a 2.02:1 assists to turnover ratio (69:34) ... played 10 minutes or more in all but one game a year ago.

Quinn Cook (6'1''-G-93), So., Guard
A two-time ACC Rookie of the Week selection in 2012 ... averaged 4.4 points and 1.9 assists as a freshman ... had an impressive 3.50:1 assists-to-turnover ratio with 63 assists and only 18 turnovers.

Josh Hairston (6'7''-F-92), Jr., Forward
Averaged 1.4 points and 1.1 rebounds in 28 games as a freshman ... posted season highs in points (7) and rebounds (4) against Virginia Tech on Feb. 4.

Courtesy of: http://www.theacc.com

Countdown to Tipoff: Clemson Tigers - by Eurobasket News

Brad Brownell , Clemson Head Coach

Brad Brownell enters his third year at Clemson after a 2011-12 season that saw him guide the Tigers to a 16-15 record and a seventh-place finish in the ACC with an 8-8 league mark ... Brownell set a Clemson record for wins by a first-year coach in 2010-11 with 22, as the Tigers advanced to the NCAA Tournament for a school-record fourth straight time and won a first-round game against UAB, the program's first tournament victory in 14 years ... Brownell was the only first-year coach to lead his team to an NCAA Tournament win in 2011 ... he has now taken each of his three schools (Clemson, UNC Wilmington, Wright State) to the "Big Dance" in his first year at each stop ... with a career record of 205-112 and a winning percentage of .647, Brownell is ranked in the top 50 nationally among active Division I coaches ... in each of his two previous head coaching positions, Brownell has taken the program to a school-record number of wins as a Division I program - 25 wins at UNC Wilmington in 2005-06 and 23 victories at Wright State in 2006-07 ... in his 10 years as a head coach, the 1991 DePauw graduate has seven 20-win seasons, four NCAA Tournament bids and a 16-8 record in conference postseason tournaments, including three postseason tournament titles ... Brownell was named the Colonial Athletic Association Coach of the Year in 2002-03 and 2005-06, and the Horizon League Coach-of-the-Year in 2007-08 ... the 42-year old native of Evansville, Ind., earned three letters as a player at DePauw University where he ranks seventh in school history with 332 career assists ... Brownell earned his bachelor's degree from DePauw in 1991 and completed his master's degree at the University of Indianapolis in 1994.

Returning players

Devin Booker (6'8''-F/C-91), Sr., Forward/Center
A two-year starter and the team's leading returning scorer (10.5) and rebounder (7.0) ... had a team-high five double-doubles, including four in ACC play ... shot .459 from the floor and .698 from the free throw line ... led the team in blocked shots (29) and was third in steals (27) ... averaged 10.3 points and an even seven rebounds per game in league games ... has a career field goal percentage of .473 (286-of-605).

Milton Jennings (6'9''-F-90), Sr., Forward
Started 23 of Clemson's 31 games a year ago, posting career-highs in scoring (9.7) and rebounding (5.6) ... improved to 10.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per game in 13 ACC games ... had 13 games with 10-or-more points, including a 22-point, 14-rebound effort in a 59-49 win over Furman (N25) ... averaged 11.8 points and 6.2 rebounds over the last five games of the season ... has improved his per game scoring and rebound averages in each of his three seasons.

K.J. McDaniels (6'6''-G/F-93), So., Forward
Played in 30 of the Tigers' 31 games with one start ... made the most of his only start on Feb. 4 against Virginia Tech, scoring a season-high 14 points on 7-of-11 shooting with five rebounds and five blocked shots ... averaged 3.9 points and 1.8 rebounds ... had five games in double figures, including four in ACC play.

Rod Hall (6'1''-G-93), So., Guard
Started nine of Clemson's first 13 contests ... averaged 3.8 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.1 assists while playing in all 31 games as a freshman ... made four of his five three-point field goal attempts (.800) on the year ... tallied a season-high 18 points in the Tigers' 83-75 overtime win over Southern Illinois on Dec. 23.

T.J. Sapp (6'2''-G-92), So., Guard
Played in 30 games as a freshman with nine starts ... averaged 3.6 points, 1.6 rebounds and 0.7 assists in 16.1 minutes per game ... made at least one 3-point field goal in 13 games and finished third on the team in 3-point field goals made (24) ... was 7-of-11 (.636) from behind the arc in back-to-back games against Hawai'i and East Tennessee State.

Devin Coleman (6'2''-G-92), So., Guard
Finished his freshman season with a flourish, scoring 15 points on 6-of-10 shooting against Virginia Tech in the ACC Tournament, playing a season-high 26 minutes coming off the bench ... averaged 2.6 points and 1.3 rebounds on the year.

Bernard Sullivan (6'7''-F-92), So., Forward
Averaged 1.4 points and 1.1 rebounds in 28 games as a freshman ... posted season highs in points (7) and rebounds (4) against Virginia Tech on Feb. 4.
Courtesy of: http://www.theacc.com

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

NCAA2

Shelby leads WSC men in exhibition win over Midland University - by Eurobasket News

Wayne State 64 Midland University 46

Senior guard Amry Shelby (5'11''-G-91) poured in a game-high 29 points to lead Wayne State College in a 64-46 men's basketball exhibition victory Tuesday evening over Midland University at Rice Auditorium in Wayne.
The game was close early as Wayne State held a 16-14 lead at the midway point of the first half. The Wildcats then closed the half strong with a 19-4 run to build a 35-18 lead at intermission with Shelby scoring 19 of his 29 points in the first half. Midland never got closer than 15 points in the second half as WSC held the Warriors to just 31.3 percent shooting in the game (15 of 48) as the Wildcats posted the 64-46 win.
Wayne State finished the contest making 23 of 43 shots from the field for 53.5 percent. The 'Cats were 9 of 18 behind the three point line and 9 of 15 at the charity stripe. Shelby was the lone Wildcat in double figures with 29 points, making 10 of 14 shots from the field, 5 of 7 behind the three point line, and 4 for 4 at the free throw line. Derrell Williams and Tyler Bauschek (6'1''-G) each added eight points while Williams hauled in a game-high eight boards for WSC.
For Midland University, Jalen Hueser poured in 11 points with James Parrott (6'2''-G-90) adding nine. The Warriors were 15 of 48 from the field for 31.3 percent including 6 for 23 from the three point line. MU was 10 of 17 at the free throw line.
WSC held a 35-28 advantage in rebounds over Midland but had 20 turnovers compared to 15 for the Warriors.
Wayne State will face Morningside College in an exhibition game on Tuesday, November 6th at 7 p.m.
Courtesy of: http://www.wscwildcats.com

2012-13 GLIAC Men's Basketball Season Preview - by Eurobasket News

BAY CITY, Mich. - Teams should not expect any easy nights in Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) men's basketball competition this season - in the North or South divisions.

Findlay and Hillsdale have battled for South Division supremacy in recent years and appear destined to battle it out again for the top spot. In the North Division, the race should be competitive with the addition of Wayne State to the trio of Ferris State, Michigan Tech, and Northwood that tied for the Division title last season.

The GLIAC features no shortage of top individual talent returning, including Ali Haidar of Michigan Technological University, the 2011-12 GLIAC Player of the Year. Haidar was named to D-II Bulletin's Preseason Super 16 Team. Kenny Brown, a senior guard from Ferris; Evan Yates (6'6''-C), a senior forward from Ashland; Derek Billing, a junior guard from Lake Superior State; Joe Graessle, a junior from Tiffin; Cameron Joyce, a junior from Northwood; Greg Kahlig, a junior from Findlay; Ronnie Steward (5'10''-G), a junior from Ashland; Daniel Sutherlin, a senior from Ferris; and Chris Webb, a senior from Saginaw Valley State, are among the talented returning players who earned All-GLIAC honors last season.

The aforementioned players will set the tone in what should be a great race for the top team spots in the GLIAC.

Below are previews of all 16 GLIAC men's basketball teams in alphabetical order:

Ashland University

Overview: The Eagles have a lot of talent returning on the hardwood this season led by 6-foot-6 forward Evan Yates, a first-team All-GLIAC performer, 6-foot-6 junior forward Will Evans and 5-foot-11 senior guard Ronnie Steward, an All-GLIAC Second Team pick last season. That trio should provide strong leadership and play on the court this winter for Ashland. Yates averaged 20.8 points, Steward 13.1 points and Evans 10.8 last season. Yates, who was a second-team member of the Daktronics All-America team, was strong on the boards for Ashland as he averaged 11.3 rebounds and Evans averaged 6.3. The Eagles are coming off of an up-and-down season as they finished one game above .500 in GLIAC play and 15-12 overall.

Coaching: John Ellenwood is entering his fourth season as the head men's basketball coach at AU.

Noteworthy: Ellenwood was part of the 2012 College of Wooster Hall of Fame class.

2011-12 Record: 15-12 overall, 10-9 GLIAC

Ferris State University

Overview: The Bulldogs have a strong group of returners back after finishing as regular-season champions of the GLIAC North Division during the 2011-12 season. Senior guard Kenny Brown, a first-team All-GLIAC performer last season, is back to lead the Bulldogs this upcoming season. Brown, who averaged 16.9 points last season, is joined by senior forward Daniel Sutherlin, who averaged 12.3 points last season en route to earning All-GLIAC Second Team honors. Sutherlin averaged eight rebounds per game last season. Drew Lehman and Dietrich Lever, both of whom gained valuable experience last season, are back as sophomores. Ferris put together a strong recruiting class that includes transfers Bryant Orange (6'2''-G), Matt Stoll and Raymoan McAfee. Trent Messer and Dan Chilcote are back with experience to their credit and Jared Stolicker, at 6-foot-10, will debut after redshirting last season.

Coaching: Bill Sall enters his 11th season as the head men's basketball coach at Ferris.

Noteworthy: Sall is being assisted this season by Andy Bronkema, Bill Killian and Jim Lake.

2011-12 Record: 16-11 overall, 13-7 GLIAC

University of Findlay

Overview: Following a banner 2011-12 season during which the Oilers finished 24-7, including a GLIAC Tournament championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance, Findlay is hungry for more success this winter. UF has 12 returning players with hardwood college experience led by junior forward Greg Kahlig, who averaged 12.6 points and 4.5 rebounds, and senior forward Brad Piehl (6'8''-F-90), who averaged 9.6 points and 2.8 rebounds as a junior. Kahlig earned All-GLIAC Second Team recognition last season. Senior guard Aaron Robinson, a 2011-12 GLIAC All-Defensive Team selection, is back as a returning starter along with sophomore forward Jack Heagen. Senior forward Jack Smith and junior forward Sean Samsel will be among the experienced returners vying for spots in the starting lineup.

Coaching: Charlie Ernst is entering his second season as the head men's basketball coach at the University of Findlay.

Noteworthy: The Oilers have won nine out of the last 11 GLIAC South Division titles and have won the conference tournament championship in six of the last nine years.

2011-12 Record: 24-7 overall, 14-5 GLIAC

Grand Valley State University

Overview: The Grand Valley men's basketball team has some big shoes to fill with the loss of its two leading scorers from last season, big man Nick Waddell and All-GLIAC shooting guard James Thomas. The Lakers do have strong leadership returning led by senior point guard Breland Hogan, who averaged 9.9 points and ranked fifth in the GLIAC in assist-to-turnover ratio. Hogan also handed out 89 assists. Ryan Sabin (6'3''-G), a sophomore guard, is back after averaging 7.4 points last season. Senior forward Tyrone Lee, who emerged as a top defensive player and a GLIAC All-Defensive Team selection, is back. Lee blocked 23 shots and had 18 steals. Senior forward Tony Peters and sophomore forward Darius Norman are back for the Lakers. On the newcomer front, Ryan Majerle joins the team after transferring from the University of Toledo. Ricardo Carbajal, a transfer from Quincy; and Kristers Zeidaks, a transfer from Mississippi State, add depth.

Coaching: Ric Wesley is entering his ninth season as the head men's basketball coach at Grand Valley State University.

Noteworthy: Senior leader Breland Hogan has started 61 of 85 games during his GVSU career, including all 27 during his junior year.

2011-12 Record: 14-13 overall, 10-9 GLIAC

Hillsdale College

Overview: With a veteran team last season, Hillsdale College remained at the top of the hill in the GLIAC standings during the 2011-12 campaign at 16-3. The Chargers, who finished with the best league record in the regular season, have some big shoes to fill this winter as a young squad prepares to go to work against some top-notch NCAA Division II competition. The lone seniors on the team this year are 6-foot-10 center Nick Washburn, who averaged 10.4 points and 5.2 rebounds last season, and 6-6 forward Ryan Choiniere. Last season, Hillsdale put together a season to remember as it finished 24-5 overall and 16-3 in the GLIAC. Tim Dezelski, a 6-6 junior, averaged nine points and five rebounds for the Chargers. Brandon Pritzl (6'2''-G), a junior guard, averaged 8.2 points and 3.5 rebounds a year ago.

Coaching: John Tharp is entering his sixth season as the head men's basketball coach at Hillsdale College.

Noteworthy: Point guard Zach Miller, an NCAA Division I transfer from Northern Illinois University, has joined the program.

2011-12 Record: 24-6 overall, 16-3 GLIAC

Lake Erie College

Overview: Lake Erie is hoping a fresh start his season will lead to an improvement in the standings for the men's hardwood squad. The Storm welcome back three starters from last season in 6-7 junior forward Rich Austin (6'6''-C), who averaged 12.3 points and 6.2 rebounds; junior guard Riley Thomas, a 5-11 junior guard who averaged 10.3 points and dished out 68 assists; and junior guard Tom Parker, who averaged 4.7 points and 2.4 rebounds for LEC during the 2011-12 campaign. Other returners include Garrick Sims, who missed the 2011-12 season due to an injury, but averaged eight points and 6.6 rebounds in his last season of hardwood action. The team has six newcomers joining a roster that includes 11 returners and four players back with starting experience.

Coaching: Cliff Hunt has a record of 100-89 in eight seasons as the head men's basketball coach at Lake Erie College.

Noteworthy: The non-conference schedule for the Storm includes games against traditional rival Notre Dame College, Point Park University, Slippery Rock University, and Salem International University. LEC also plays an exhibition game at Division I Bowling Green State University to open the season on Friday, Nov. 9.

2011-12 Record: 10-16 overall, 5-14 GLIAC

Lake Superior State University

Overview: The 2012-13 Lakers welcome back veteran leadership on the hardwood led by senior forward Derek Kinney and junior guard Derek Billing, a second-team All-GLIAC choice in 2011-12, for head coach Steve Hettinga . Last season, Billing was the team's leading scorer as he averaged 17 points and 3.7 assists for the Lakers while Kinney averaged 11.7 points and 6.9 rebounds for Hettinga's squad. Alex Williams, a 6-6 sophomore guard, showed some of his potential last season as he averaged 7.3 points and 2.3 rebounds during his freshman season on the hardwood.

Coaching: Steve Hettinga is entering his sixth season as the head men's basketball coach at Lake Superior State University.

Noteworthy: Kinney and Billing were named to the GLIAC All-Academic Team in recognition of maintaining a GPA of 3.0 to 3.49.

2011-12 Record: 11-15 overall, 6-13 GLIAC

Malone University

Overview: Malone begins its first men's basketball season in the GLIAC with some firepower returning in its lineup from last season. Junior guard Isiah Elliott and junior forward Cory Veldhuizen are back as top scorers in the Pioneers' rotation. Elliott was the team's second-leading scorer last season as he averaged 13.3 points and 4.8 rebounds. He also finished tops on the team with 115 assists to just 61 turnovers as he played in and started all 27 games for Malone. Veldhuizen averaged 13 points and 5.2 rebounds as he also connected on 42 percent of his shots from outside of the 3-point line. Che Richardson (6'4''-G), a junior guard, and Zach Bates, a 6-7 senior forward, are back and hungry to contribute to the team's offensive and defensive efforts. Richardson averaged 9.3 points and 5.6 rebounds while Bates averaged 8.9 points and shot a solid 54 percent from the floor.

Coaching: Tim Walker enters his fourth season as the head men's basketball coach at Malone University.

Noteworthy: On November 15, Malone traveled to the University of Findlay's Croy Gymnasium, one of the toughest venues in all of NCAA Division II basketball, and ended the Oilers' 105-game regular-season home winning streak with a 74-71 win.

2011-12 Record: 12-15 overall, N/A GLIAC

Michigan Technological University

Overview: The Michigan Tech men's basketball team is looking to repeat as GLIAC North Division champions in 2012-13, and it has the fire power to back it up. The Huskies return nine players from last years squad, including three starters. Forward Ali Haidar will lead the team after garnering GLIAC "Player of the Year" accolades after ranking 38th in the nation in scoring with 19.1 points per game. The Windsor, Ont., native averaged 9.4 rebounds per game, 19^th best in the nation, and finished with 14 double-doubles, 10th most in the league. Junior Alex Culy, a GLIAC All-Defensive Team selection last season, will handle the point guard duties for the Huskies again after starting all 27 games. The Rice Lake, Wis., native averaged 8.8 points per game, including 57 3-pointers, most on the team. Sophomore Ben Stelzer is back for the Huskies. Last season he started 25 games and averaged 7.3 points and led the team in assists, 66, and steals, 21. Sophomore Phil Romback, senior T.J. Brown, and sophomore Troy Hecht will be competing for spots in the rotation. Austin Armga, provides additional backcourt help for Tech. He shot a team-best 54 percent from outside the 3-point line. Seniors Matt Esters and Anthony Katona along with freshman Jordan Chartier will compete for playing time.

Coaching: Kevin Luke is entering his 18^th season as the head men's basketball coach at Michigan Tech University.

Noteworthy: Luke has been named GLIAC "Coach of the Year" four times (1994-95, 1997-98, 2001-02, 2002-03). He owns an impressive 300-189 overall record, including a 188-132 mark in conference play. His winning percentage of .594 ranks as the best in Husky hoop annals.

2011-12 Record: 16-12 overall, 13-6 GLIAC

Northern Michigan University

Overview: Northern Michigan comes into the season seeking to replace a lot of offensive firepower lost from the team's 2011-12 squad. Gone are DeAndre Taylor and Jared Benson, two of the team's three top scorers and Haki Stampley will take a redshirt year after averaging 14 points per game as a freshman. Perhaps waiting to emerge, however, are veteran returnees Matthew Craggs, 6-6 junior forward; T.J. Cameron, a 6-3 senior guard; Quinten Calloway, a 5-11 sophomore guard; and Kendall Jackson, a 6-5 sophomore guard. Craggs averaged 8.8 points and 5.5 rebounds last season and is the team's top returning scorer. Cameron averaged seven points and Calloway averaged 6.9 per contest in the scoring column. NMU has added some transfers to its roster, including 6-7 Scooter Johnson, from Kent State, 6-5 Jeron Lee, from Lewis University, and 6-7 Michael Smith, from Grand Rapids Community College. This group will work to help NMU improve upon last year's 9-17 record, including 5-14 in the GLIAC North Division.

Coaching: Doug Lewis enters his third season as the head men's basketball coach at Northern Michigan University.

Noteworthy: Coach Lewis played at Southwest Missouri State (now Missouri State University) from 1987 through 1989 as the Bears won the Mid-Continent Conference title and advanced to the NCAA Division I Tournament in back-to-back years. In 1988, Lewis was the Mid-Continent Conference Newcomer of the Year. He was an honorable mention all-conference pick in 1989.

2011-12 Record: 9-17 overall, 5-14 GLIAC

Northwood University

Overview: Mentored by the 2011-12 GLIAC "Coach of the Year" in Jeff Rekeweg, Northwood enjoyed a strong season on the hardwood in men's basketball with an 18-win season. In spite of suffering losses of key talent from last year's roster, Northwood is back with an experienced group of talented veterans along with promising newcomers eager to make their mark this season. Senior guard Andrew VanDierenDonck is among the top returners for NU after averaging 9.3 points a year ago. He will be joined by veterans Wes Wilcox, a 6-8 senior forward who averaged 9.3 points and shot 51.4 percent from the floor; Darvin Ham, a 6-6 junior forward who averaged 8.4 points and 4.8 rebounds, Cameron Joyce, a senior guard who averaged 6.9 points; and Booker Stoudmire, who averaged eight points and is a senior guard as well. Joyce earned All-GLIAC Second Team honors last season.

Coaching: Jeff Rekeweg enters his third season as the head men's basketball coach at Northwood University.

Noteworthy: Coach Rekeweg led Northwood to a GLIAC North Division championship during the 2011-12 season to cap an eight-game, one-season improvement. NU tied a school record for most Division II wins in a season, with 16, and set a new school record by recording an eight-game winning streak late in the year.

2011-12 Record: 18-9 overall, 13-6 GLIAC

Ohio Dominican University

Overview: Entering the 2012-13 season, Ohio Dominican welcomes back two starters from a year ago in standout guard Morgan Jones, a 5-9 senior, and 6-8 senior forward John Trew. Jones could again be the focal point of the ODU offense as the team's leading returning scorer. As a junior, Jones averaged 12.7 points and totaled a team-best 67 assists as he started in 24 of the team's 26 games. The Panthers have seven returning letterwinners with eight players lost from the previous year's roster. Artie Taylor, head coach of the ODU program, welcomes seven incoming freshmen or transfers this season as the Panthers gear up for another tough GLIAC and non-GLIAC schedule.

Coaching: Artie Taylor is entering his sixth year as the head men's basketball coach at Ohio Dominican University.

Noteworthy: Coach Taylor graduated from John Carroll University in 1998. He played college basketball for the Blue Streaks. He was a three-year starter and was named the team's most valuable player his senior season when he helped lead JCU to an Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Division III Tournament. He was inducted into the John Carroll Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010.

2011-12 Record: 4-22 overall, 1-18 GLIAC

Saginaw Valley State University

Overview: It's a new year and a fresh look on the bench for the Saginaw Valley men's basketball program under first-year head coach Randy Baruth. Baruth's coaching staff welcomes back SVSU players who gained experience in leading the Cardinals last season. Among the returning leaders for Saginaw Valley are 2011-12 All-GLIAC Second Team senior guard Chris Webb, senior guard Michael Fugate, senior guard Brett Beland (6'1''-G) and junior forward Jay Thames. Webb was the team's leading scorer last season as he averaged 14.2 points. Fugate averaged 8.1 points and connected on 42.1 percent of his shots from outside of the 3-point arc. Beland averaged 7.9 points last season while Thames averaged 3.5 points and 4.4 rebounds.

Coaching: Randy Baruth is entering his first year as the head men's basketball coach at Saginaw Valley State University.

Noteworthy: Baruth spent the last season at the University of Utah as the Director of Player Development under head coach, and former NBA player and coach, Larry Krystkowiak. Before his stint with the Utes, he was the Director of Basketball Operations at Colorado State University under then head coach Tim Miles. Baruth is very familiar with NCAA Division II basketball, spending 7 years as an assistant at Northern State University and North Dakota State University.

2011-12 Record: 10-16 overall, 6-13 GLIAC

Tiffin University

Overview: The Tiffin University men's basketball team started and closed the 2011-12 season with a bang. The Dragons won four of their first five games, hit a rough spot and closed with five wins in the final six contests. Included in that stretch run were wins over Findlay and #24 Hillsdale, the first victories over those schools in over 20 years. Tiffin won the GCI Alaska Invitational en-route to finishing 15-14, its first winning season in six years. The Dragons will have a different look for 2012-13. They lose only five players. However, those five were among the top six on the team in minutes played and included four starters. Among the losses for TU was Karl Finley, an All-GLIAC First Team selection and GLIAC "Freshman of the Year," Iman Johnson.

Junior Joe Graessle is the lone starter back. Graessle averaged 17.9 points, 3.5 assists and 1.3 steals a game while hitting 3.1 triples a game. Graessle set the school record with 91 3-pointers made and 252 treys attempted and finished 12^th in the country in three's made per game. He was an All-GLIAC second team selection last season. Sophomores Michael Bouley (6'7''-C/F) and Sarwan Khan, both returning letterwinners, have good size at 6'7" and 6'9", respectively. Junior Keith Mackie (5'10''-G) drew four starts and saw his fair share of action. Another pair of sophomores, Mike Brown and Andrew Bendolph, bring experience to the backcourt.

Coaching: John Hill is entering his fourth season as the head men's basketball coach at Tiffin University.

Noteworthy: Among the 10 newcomers, Mike Boan, a transfer from NCAA Division I Wright State, is expected to make an immediate impact. The Dragons also look for contributions from freshmen Mohamed Rage, Khaleal McCormick, Eric Roby and Jonathan Sutherlin.

2011-12 Record: 15-14 overall, 7-12 GLIAC

Walsh University

Overview: As Walsh prepares to embark on its first season of GLIAC men's basketball competition, the Cavaliers will do so without a pair of 1,000-point scorers from a year ago in Ron Kinney and L.J. Sutton. That is the challenging news. The positive news is that the program returns some talented players looking for breakthrough seasons as they will now have the opportunity to shine. Starters Brad DuPont, a junior point guard; Rian Burrell, at small forward; and Kenny Kornowski (6'9''-F), a 6-9 post, return as key leaders. DuPont led the team in assists at 7.5 per game while Burrell returns off a strong freshman season during which he averaged 13.9 points per game. Kornowski is looking to bounce back from injury. He was averaging 18.6 points and 8.8 rebounds last season before he suffered a season-ending injury. Walsh has some transfers coming in, including Davonte Beard, from Division I Siena College (N.Y.). Beard is expected to start at shooting guard. Hrvoje Vucic, at 7-1, is the tallest player in Walsh program history. He should strengthen the team's front line.

Coaching: Jeff Young is entering his 10^th season as the head men's basketball coach at Walsh University and has a record of 224-44.

Noteworthy: Walsh enjoyed an impressive record of 11-1 at home last season. The team has won 59 of its last 60 at home.

2011-12 Record: 26-5 overall, N/A GLIAC

Wayne State University

Overview: The bulk of Wayne State's roster this season is in its junior and senior classes with seven and two, respectively, in those groups. Still, led by junior guard Mike Hollingsworth, senior forward Ian Larkin and junior forward Bryan Coleman (6'6''-F-92), the Warriors welcome back some offensive firepower to complement the strong defensive mindset that typically defines teams coached by David Greer and his staff. Hollingsworth enjoyed a banner 2011-12 season as he averaged a team-best 17.2 points, but had his season shortened due to injury. He also pulled down four rebounds a game. Larkin also returns to the lineup after averaging 12.6 points and 5.9 rebounds and Bryan Coleman returns after playing 16 games and averaging 10.5 points and 3.3 rebounds. The Warriors return six players with starting experience from previous years and two starters from a team that finished tied for second in the GLIAC South Division. Wayne has added a solid recruiting class that includes a pair of transfers from Alcorn State, Michael Martin and Jamal Ragland.

Coaching: David Greer is entering his 12^th season as the head men's basketball coach at Wayne State University.

Noteworthy: As a program, Wayne State has made a total of 12 NCAA Tournament appearances in its long history - the first coming in 1956.

2011-12 Record: 18-9 overall, 14-5 GLIAC

Courtesy of: http://www.gliac.org

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

NCAA3

Royals Ready For Challenging 2012-2013 Season - by Eurobasket News

Veteran University of Scranton men's basketball coach Carl Danzig has never backed down from a challenge.

He inherited a storied programone that has won two national titles (1976, 1983) and has advanced to the Final Four on two other occasions (1977, 1988)and yet has managed to carve out a niche of his own.

In 11 seasons, he's won more than 200 games and has led the Royals to six NCAA tournament appearances and six conference championships, including four in Scranton's recent five-year affiliation with the Landmark Conference.

Of all the excitement that Danzig has created since taking over in 2001, however, the most memorable might have been last year, when the Royals capped off a 23-8 season with an incredible run in the NCAA tournament.

Scranton overcame an 18-point second-half deficit to defeat Messiah College in overtime, 70-67, in the first round; dismantled Becker College (Mass.) in the next round, 69-41; then upset fourth-ranked Middlebury College, 58-55, on Middlebury's home floor to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1993.

A season-ending 78-58 loss to eventual runner-up Cabrini College in the NCAA sectional final did nothing to diminish the Royals' magical season.

Scranton fans will once again have lofty expectations, fueled by the return of three starters from last year's team that earned a 15th-place national ranking in D3hoops.com's final poll. That nucleus will be called upon, especially in the early going, to offset the loss of some key personnel.

All three starterssenior Travis Farrell (6'3''-G) (Middletown, NJ/Christian Brothers Academy), sophomore Ross Danzig (6'4''-G) (Clarks Green, Pa./Abington Heights/Blair Academy-NJ), and junior Tommy Morgan (Greenlawn, NY/Chaminade)are guards who are adept in all phases of the game.

Each scored in double figures, two of the three (Farrell and Danzig) tied for the team-lead in rebounding (while Morgan was next at 4.5 per game), and all three were top-notch defenders, especially Farrell, who led the Royals for the third straight year in steals and was named the 2012 Landmark Conference Defensive Player of the Year.

Senior Tim Lavelle (5'10''-G) (Clarks Green, Pa./Scranton Preparatory) is yet another veteran who has played considerable minutes over the past three years and gives Danzig another scoring threat in the back court.

"We're excited about our guard play," says Danzig. "We have four quality guards that have a ton of minutes under their belt and are going to be very tough to defend. In addition, we're bringing along some upperclassmen that haven't seen a lot of time the last couple of years, but should see more in a supporting role this season.

Those upperclassmen battling for playing time are juniors Michael Barr (North Wales, Pa./Lansdale Catholic) and Mike Marchman (Blauvelt, NY/St. Joseph Regional) and sophomores Michael Fee (Richboro, Pa./St. Joseph's Preparatory) and Justin Klingman (Clarks Summit, Pa./Abington Heights) at guard, and juniors Jack McKenna (Netcong, NJ/Lenape Valley) and Kyle Ranck (Lewisburg, Pa./Lewisburg) at forward.

For Danzig, replacing two-time first-team all-conference selection Luke Hawk, a 6-4 swing man and one of the Landmark's best interior players, along with 6-8 forward Matt Swaback, a three-year starter who was a defensive nightmare for most opponents because of his perimeter shooting ability, poses a tremendous challenge

Furthermore, Danzig must replace 6-8 forward Nick Jaskula, who played 30 games last year and was unquestionably the Royals' most improved player, as well as forward Edmond O'Connell, who wasn't afraid to mix it up down low over the past three years.

To shore up these losses, Danzig concentrated his recruiting efforts on sizeboth in quantity and quality.

"We brought in a big classI don't think I've ever brought in a class this big," he says. "The emphasis was on height because we graduated all of our size."

Of the eight newcomers, four are 6-4 or taller. Danzig is confident 6-8 junior Jason Pierce (Scranton, Pa./Conestoga), a transfer from nearby Lackawanna College, and freshmen Brendan Boken (South Pasadena, Calif./Loyola), Sam Palermo (Rochester, NY/McQuaid Jesuit), Billy Garneau (Warwick, NY/John S. Burke Catholic), and Marcus Thomas (Clarksburg, Md./Clarksburg) can blend in quickly.

"Jason (Pierce) is an older student who brings maturity and size and Sam (Palermo) and Brendan (Boken) are both very capable players. They're (Palermo, Boken) inside-outside type of players, and their success is really dependent on how quickly they learn the system. Once they get comfortable, I think their level of play will pick up."

Rounding out the newcomers are sharp-shooting guards Brian Farrell (Verona, NJ/Verona) and Justice Perez (Wantagh, NY/Wantagh) and point-guard Shaun Cooke (Point Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant Boro), each of whom is expected to make contributions.

With an inexperienced front line, Danzig will once again rely on his talented back court to share the scoring and rebounding duties.

"That's how we play, and that will be our emphasis again," he says. "We always seem to have three or four guys averaging in double figures, so I think Timmy (Lavelle), Ross (Danzig), Tommy (Morgan), and Travis (Farrell)there's four guys right there who can get double figures. I'm really hoping they continue to play well together, and then we'll sprinkle in the new kids."

If anything, Danzig is hoping the Royals can recapture the chemistry of last year's team, which pulled out a number of wins with heart-stopping, late-game heroics.

"So much of it is the DNA of the kids and how they bond together," says Danzig. "The catalysts behind last year's team are back. If the older kids are fighting till the end, it brings along the younger kids and they understand that's who we are. So over the years, we've been able to develop that type of mentality. Last year was great because everybody clicked. We never felt like we were ever out of a game, whether we were up or down."

News & Notes: Royals are 53-17 (.757) against Landmark Conference opponents in five seasons as a league memberRoss Danzig, the 2012 Landmark Conference Rookie of the Year, scored 407 points last season, the most by a Scranton freshman since three-time all-American Irv Johnson tallied 427 in 1976, the year the Royals won their first NCAA Division III championshipFarrell is 73 steals shy of tying Randy Arnold as the Royals' all-time leader (Arnold had 252 steals from 2004-2008)Royals will host NCAA runner-up Cabrini College on Tuesday, November 27, at 7:00 p.m. in the Long CenterWilkes University will be the site of the second annual Cross-County Challenge on January 2-3; Royals won the initial challenge by defeating former Freedom Conference rivals Wilkes, 71-53, and King's College, 62-47, last January at Marywood UniversityRoyals are 126-24 (.827) on their home court, the Long Center, during Danzig's 11-year tenure as head coach, including a 12-1 mark last seasonScranton led the Landmark Conference in scoring defense (64.7 points per game allowed) and field goal percentage (.462)the Royals will play seven, possibly eight, non-conference opponents this year that posted winning records last season: Misericordia (21-7), Cabrini (31-2), Mt. St. Mary-NY (23-7), Keystone (21-6), Alvernia (20-8) or Gwynedd-Mercy (17-10), St. Joseph-NY (21-5), and Wilkes (17-10); Scranton also faces the possibility of playing York-Pa. (18-11) in the third place or championship game of the season-opening Radisson Invitational.
Courtesy of: http://www.d3hoops.com

North Central picked to defend CCIW men's basketball title - by Eurobasket News

NAPERVILLE, Ill. -- North Central was picked to defend its College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) men's basketball title according to a preseason coaches' poll released Thursday.

The Cardinals (22-8, 12-2 last season), coming off two-straight CCIW regular season titles and a conference tournament title last season, won the poll with 49 points including seven first place votes. North Central advanced all the way to the NCAA's sectional round last season.

Illinois Wesleyan (23-8, 10-4), coming off an NCAA Semifinal appearance, was second in the poll with 39 points and one first place vote.

Carthage (12-13, 6-8) placed third in the voting with 36 points, followed by 2012 CCIW Tournament qualifier Augustana (9-7, 9-5) with 31 points.

Wheaton (23-7, 11-3), coming off a CCIW Tournament appearance, placed fifth in the poll with 29 points, while Elmhurst (12-13, 6-8) was sixth with 19 points.

North Park (6-19, 2-12) and Millikin (1-24, 0-14) rounded out the poll with 11 and 10 points respectivley.

Voting is done by the CCIWs head men's basketball coaches. Each coach votes for the seven other schools in the conference in order of predicted finish. Points are assigned in reverse order of voting (seven points for first, six for second, etc.). Coaches may not vote for their own teams.
Courtesy of: http://www.d3hoops.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Pirates out of 2013 - by Hugh McAuliffe

James Blond Auckland Pirates will not defend their Bartercard NBL title next season.

After much deliberation, Basketball Auckland has decided that it will not be entering a team in the 2013 National Basketball League.

BA undertook a thorough review of the on and off-court operation of the Pirates, and found the financial model, in particular, to be unsustainable in the short term.

While the players, coaching staff, team management, sponsors and supporters have every reason to be disappointed with the decision to withdraw the Pirates from the NBL, it has been made in the best interests of basketball in Auckland.

Basketball Auckland chairman Chris Ford said there remained every intention to field an Auckland Pirates NBL team in the future.

'The NBL remains New Zealand's premier domestic basketball competition and Auckland teams have a great history of success over the years,' says Ford. 'While it's disappointing not to have the Pirates in the league next season the BA board is committed to working with its partners to find a workable solution for future years.'

Bartercard NBL chairman Sam Rossiter-Stead adds: 'Obviously it is disappointing that the Pirates will not compete in 2013, especially having come such a long way in a short time. The NBL Board will continue working to ensure that the league has full representation from the greater Auckland region.'

Moving forward, Basketball Auckland considers there are several reasons why a strategic approach to development of the game in Auckland will see the Pirates return to the NBL at a later date.

With the recent creation of Auckland Basketball Services - a joint venture between Basketball Auckland and Counties-Manukau Basketball - the establishment of best-practice administration and delivery of basketball in the Auckland region remain top priorities.

Meantime, the Pirates programme will continue to operate locally with a focus on player development.

Saints re-sign Frank - by Hugh McAuliffe

The rock behind the success of the Wellington Saints for the past three years - Casey Frank (203-F-77, college: N.Arizona) - has confirmed he is returning.

While juggling his MBA studies around basketball, Frank is committed to the Saints and brings valuable experience to the team.

The American-turned-Kiwi forward will again commute to Wellington and suit up for the Saints in 2013. Head coach Pero Cameron will base his team around the signing of Frank.

'Casey is a key signing for next season and we are pretty happy with the loyalty he is showing to us,' says Cameron.

The 2.03m power forward made his NBL debut as an import for the Auckland Stars in 2002, and won titles with that club in 2004 and 2005. Frank also won back-to-back championships with the Saints in 2010 and 2011.

Having played professionally in the United States, France, Sweden and Australia, Frank was also part of the silver medal-winning Tall Blacks team at the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

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

NIGERIA

Interview with Aloysius Anagonye - by Ozell Wells

Eurobasket had the pleasure of sitting with Nigerian National Team member and 4 time European champion, Aloysius Anagonye. He was able to share his insights on his 10+ years as a pro in top FIBA countries, insights on todays players, and his outlook for the future, not just on European basketball, but also the game in both United States and also in Nigeria.

EU: Big Al, It is more than a pleasure to sit with you today. How has this offseason found you, and what are your next moves?
AA: Thank you for inviting me. This offseason, I can name it as the redefining and recreating season. I had the opportunity to stay in Paris, France where I worked out with Professional trainer, Thierry Zig. He helped me to recreate my game from the way my body looks to the way I think and my offense skill level. In todays game everyone has to be able to create their own shot from putting the ball down the floor to making jump shots. The days of post player just scoring from the back to the basket are over.
We worked out daily on face up moves, counter and counter to counter. Every post must be able to face-up to make score or pass. My jump shot skill has greatly improved. Most of all, my confident is high.
A lot of people are questioning if I can score. After this offseason, I have put that question to rest. We worked on the idea that scoring is not just a skill level but confidence and mind set as well. This offseason has given me the chance to develop the scoring mind set and confidence. I am much leaner without losing my strength and I am in great shape. Being leaner allows me to be quicker as well more explosive.

EU: We hear that you are still residing in Barcelona. Have you any business interests there?
AA: At moment, I am in Detroit but I go back and forth to Barcelona to see my family, as well as to continue building on my business. As for business interests I have many. Some of the business that I am interested in doing are tourism business in Barcelona and renewable energy (solar and wind) business in Africa. Im currently looking for investors and if anyone is interested on investing, please feel free to contact me at my Facebook.

EU: Tell us of your experiences in Spain, Italy and France, and how do you see todays players? What type of differences do you see now as opposed to your early years in Europe?
AA: First of all, I love and enjoy European International Basketball. It has grown so much over the years. My experience is very positive and it has helped me to develop culturally and as an individual with international outlook and international family. On the difference between now and my early years, there are more US players now.

EU: How did playing on the Nigerian National Team help your career and your skill set?
AA: Playing in the Nigerian National Team is an honor because I was representing my country of origin. It helped me to connect with the Nigerian and Nigeria-American players and coaches in the team. I bonded with all them and learned different skill sets from them. This helped me to compete against the best players from other countries, exposing me internationally.

EU: What advice would you give the aspiring player?
AA: I will advice aspiring player to understand that it is not easy to be a professional basketball player. There are lot of disappointments and pressure, but they should have good work ethics, determination to succeed, and always have hope.

EU: What ideas or plans do you have to impact basketball in not just the USA but also in Nigeria, since you have been a large part of their National Program?
AA: Right now, I am planning to set up camps in Detroit, Nigeria and other places in the world. The education of the future generation is important to me. My goal in Nigeria is to build a Sports Academy with steady and reliable electricity from solar and wind energy sources. This will bring communities together. I will also like to setup a youth basketball development program with Nigerian National Basketball management. If anyone is interested in hearing more about it, please feel free to contact me via Facebook.

EU: What would you like to say to your fans?
AA: I thank my many fans for the support and encouragement during this trying time. Many fans had been communicating via Facebook and other social media. I truly appreciate them and wish them well too.

EU: Any closing thoughts/ideas?
AA: I am focusing on getting a team as soon as possible. My efforts, focus and mindset in all my games have been to win. My team always has positive gains in the minutes I am in the court. This win via defense mentality has yielded several championships in USA and Europe to my teams. My present approach is to enhance and complement my defense skills with my newly acquired offense skills including mindset and confidence to contribute significantly to the success of my next teams.

Eurobasket would like to take this time to thank Aloysius for sitting with us, and to wish him all the very best in this season, wherever it takes him. We look forward to hearing great things from him in the United States and also in Nigeria, as he effects change One Child at Time!!! Best Wishes Al!!!

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

NORWAY

Standings - BLNO

BLNO Standings

1. Centrum		9-1
2. Tromso		6-2
3. Gimle BBK		5-4
4. Froya Basket		4-6
5. Baerum Basket		3-5
6. Ammerud Bskt		2-6
7. Asker Aliens		2-7

Regular Season: Round 10

Nov. 1: Ammerud Bskt - Asker Aliens 63-68
Nov. 3: Centrum - Tromso
Nov. 4: Asker Aliens - Tromso
Nov. 4: Baerum Basket - Ammerud Bskt
Nov. 6: Gimle BBK - Froya Basket

BLNO Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Keith THOMPSON
  Baerum B.
  (197-F-90)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Thompson, Baerum	23.3
2. Westerlund, Asker	22.3
3. Jones, Tromso	22.1
4. Thomas, Gimle BBK	21.7
5. Ble, Centrum	18.1
6. Gabrans, Froya B.	17.9
7. Stien, Asker Aliens	17.6
8. Silavs, Froya B.	17.4
9. Hinsch, Centrum	16.9
10. Wallace, Tromso	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Jonathan JONES
  Tromso
  (196-F-88)
  Avg: 16.9

1. Jones, Tromso	16.9
2. Thomas, Gimle BBK	11.6
3. Thompson, Baerum	10.5
4. Berg, Asker Aliens	9.1
5. Mostafa, Froya B.	8.8
6. Elsafadi, Froya B.	8.1
7. Timus, Ammerud	7.1
8. Nyborg, Centrum	7.1
9. Lepovic, Centrum	6.9
10. Harto, Baerum B.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Delano THOMAS
  Gimle BBK
  (203-F-81)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Thomas, Gimle BBK	4.1
2. Holm, Baerum B.	4.0
3. Gabrans, Froya B.	3.8
4. Stien, Asker Aliens	3.7
5. Mahnin, Centrum	3.7
6. Mjos, Baerum B.	3.4
7. Timus, Ammerud	3.3
8. Wallace, Tromso	3.1
9. Issalhi, Tromso	3.0
10. Mihaylov, Tromso	2.9

Steals Per Game

Hani ISSALHI
  Tromso
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Issalhi, Tromso	2.6
2. Timus, Ammerud	2.6
3. Thompson, Baerum	2.0
4. Jones, Tromso	1.8
5. Gabrans, Froya B.	1.8
6. Elsafadi, Froya B.	1.7
7. Silavs, Froya B.	1.5
8. Nzeyimana, Froya B.	1.5
9. Westerlund, Asker	1.5
10. Amoikon, Asker Al.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Keith THOMPSON
  Baerum B.
  (197-F-90)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Thompson, Baerum	2.6
2. Thomas, Gimle BBK	2.1
3. Jones, Tromso	1.3
4. Ferranti, Baerum B.	0.8
5. Nyborg, Centrum	0.8
6. Sorensen, Ammerud	0.7
7. Andreassen, Baerum	0.6
8. Harto, Baerum B.	0.5
9. Hammer, Gimle BBK	0.4
10. Bwomono, Ammerud	0.4

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

PBL

Lake Michigan Admirals sign Tyc Snow for the 2013 PBL Season - by Gianni Pascucci

The Lake Michigan Admirals are pleased to announce that former D-Leaguer and Admiral Tychicus Snow (5'7''-PG-85, college: Miss.Valley St.), has committed to the Admirals for the 2013 season for honorable reasons. Being that the PBL season starts in March, it allows Tychicus Snow to coach aside his high school mentor in Virginia where they hope to contend for the state championship. Normally Tyc would be playing in the D-League starting tomorrow, but he chose to follow his dreams instead. After the high school season is over, Tychicus Snow will join the Admirals as they enter into their fourth season.

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

POLAND

PORTUGAL

Standings - LPB

LPB Standings

1. Academica		2-0
2. Benfica		2-0
3. Vitoria SC		2-0
4. Barcelos		2-1
5. Ovarense		2-1
6. CAB Madeira		1-1
7. Galitos-Tley		1-2
8. Lusitania		1-2
9. Fisica		1-2
10. Sampaense		0-2
11. Alges		0-3

Regular Season: Round 3

Nov. 1: Ovarense - Lusitania 82-58
Nov. 1: Benfica - Alges 70-66
Nov. 1: Galitos-Tley - Barcelos 67-72
Nov. 1: Fisica - Sampaense 66-59

Regular Season: Round 4

Nov. 10: Academica - Benfica
Nov. 10: Lusitania - CAB Madeira
Nov. 10: Vitoria SC - Fisica
Nov. 10: Sampaense - Galitos-Tley
Nov. 10: Barcelos - Ovarense

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game

Al RAPIER
  Sampaense
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 26.5

1. Rapier, Sampaense	26.5
2. Sirnik, Barcelos	19.3
3. Sousa, Academica	19.0
4. Loncovic, Barcelos	18.7
5. Cunha, Vitoria SC	18.0
6. Tavares, Galitos-T.	18.0
7. Oliveira, Barcelos	17.7
8. Baker, Sampaense	15.5
9. Sobrinho, Lusitania	15.3
10. Neves, Ovarense	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Ekjersey VIANA
  Fisica
  (203-F/C-77)
  Avg: 16.3

1. Viana, Fisica	16.3
2. Hallman, Academica	14.0
3. Stevenson, Galitos.	13.0
4. Momplasir, Lusitan.	11.0
5. Cunha, Vitoria SC	10.0
6. Rapier, Sampaense	9.5
7. Sebirumbi, Sampa.	9.5
8. Cardoso, Alges	8.7
9. Swetalla, Vitor.	8.5
10. Loncovic, Barcelos	8.0

Assists Per Game

Jose Miguel BARBOSA
  Ovarense
  (176-G-90)
  Avg: 7

1. Barbosa, Ovarense	7.0
2. Pires, Alges	6.3
3. Sing, Sampaense	6.0
4. Bessa, Vitoria SC	5.5
5. Swiggett, Vitor.	4.5
6. Simoes, Academica	4.5
7. Coelho, Barcelos	4.0
8. Fechas, Barcelos	3.7
9. Barroca, Fisica	3.3
10. Monteiro, Lusitan.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Steve BAKER
  Sampaense
  (187-G-90)
  Avg: 4

1. Baker, Sampaense	4.0
2. Barbosa, Ovarense	3.7
3. Swetalla, Vitor.	3.5
4. Sousa, Academica	3.5
5. Bessa, Vitoria SC	3.0
6. Monteiro, Lusitania	2.7
7. Andrade, Benfica	2.5
8. Stevenson, Galitos.	2.3
9. Loncovic, Barcelos	2.3
10. Nevels, Lusitania	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Perry STEVENSON
  Galitos-.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Stevenson, Galitos.	3.0
2. Lima, CAB Madeira	1.5
3. Viana, Fisica	1.3
4. Almeida, Vitor.	1.0
5. Evora, Benfica	1.0
6. Fonseca, Benfica	1.0
7. Rosario, Fisica	1.0
8. Goncalves, Acade.	1.0
9. Momplasir, Lusitan.	1.0
10. Nevels, Lusitania	1.0

Standings - Proliga

Proliga Standings

1. Maia Basket		3-0
2. Oliveirense		3-0
3. Sangalhos		2-1
4. Guifoes		2-1
5. Electrico FC		2-1
6. Leca		1-1
7. Illiabum		1-2
8. Angra		1-2
9. Benfica B		0-2
10. Ginasio		0-2
11. Terceira		0-3

Regular Season: Round 3

Nov. 1: Benfica B - Electrico FC 84-91 OT
Oct. 27: Illiabum - Angra 75-61
Oct. 27: Ginasio - Maia Basket 65-74
Oct. 27: Guifoes - Oliveirense 63-82
Oct. 28: Sangalhos - Terceira 55-42

Regular Season: Round 4

Nov. 10: Illiabum - Terceira
Nov. 11: Sangalhos - Angra
Nov. 11: Benfica B - Maia Basket
Nov. 10: Ginasio - Electrico FC
Nov. 10: Leca - Oliveirense

Proliga Round 3: Guifoes lose to Oliveirense - by Eurobasket News

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

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Guifoes (2-1) at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were rolled over by Oliveirense (3-0) 82-63. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. Oliveirense have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Maia Basket. Guifoes at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Sangalhos and Electrico FC. Oliveirense is looking forward to face Leca (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Guifoes will have a break next round.
Benfica B (#9) forced the game against Electrico FC (#5) into an overtime, but lost by seven points 84-91. The game took place in Lisboa. But the guests from Ponte de Sor were better at the end. It was a good game for guard Tiago Pinto (183-88) who led his team to a victory with 27 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Joao Lanzinha contributed with 17 points for the winners. Electrico FC's coach Andriy Melnychuk allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Power forward Candido Sa (202-92) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 16 rebounds for Benfica B. Electrico FC (2-1) moved-up to third place, which they share with Sangalhos and Guifoes. Newly promoted Benfica B still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Ginasio. Electrico FC will play against Ginasio (#10) in Figueira da Foz in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Benfica B will play at home against the league's leader Maia Basket and hopes to get finally their first victory.

Other games of round 3 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
winless Terceira was defeated by Sangalhos in a road game 55-42. Illiabum beat Angra at home 75-61. Maia Basket won against Ginasio on the opponent's court 74-65.
The best stats of 3rd round was 30 points and 13 rebounds by Nuno Marcal of Maia Basket.

Benfica B - Electrico FC 84-91 OT

Benfica B (#9) forced the game against Electrico FC (#5) into an overtime, but lost by seven points 84-91. The game took place in Lisboa. But the guests from Ponte de Sor were better at the end. Benfica B was ahead by 4 points after three quarters before a 25-21 charge of Electrico FC, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 12-5. Electrico FC forced 27 Benfica B turnovers. Benfica B was plagued by 36 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for guard Tiago Pinto (183-88) who led his team to a victory with 27 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Joao Lanzinha (188-89) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Electrico FC's coach Andriy Melnychuk allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Power forward Candido Sa (202-92) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 16 rebounds and swingman Ricardo Rosa (193) added 19 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Benfica B. Four Benfica B players scored in double figures. Electrico FC (2-1) moved-up to third place, which they share with Sangalhos and Guifoes. Newly promoted Benfica B still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Ginasio. Electrico FC will play against Ginasio (#10) in Figueira da Foz in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Benfica B will play at home against the league's leader Maia Basket and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Benfica B: C.Sa 20+16reb+1ast, R.Rosa 19+5reb+1ast, P.Belo 14+9reb, A.Miguens 12+1reb+1ast, J.Ribeiro 6+2reb+1ast, L.Tomassi 5+3reb+3ast
Electrico FC: T.Pinto 27+8reb+5ast, A.Medeiros 17+3reb+1ast, J.Lanzinha 17+4reb+3ast, P.Raminhos 8+2reb, F.Pinto 6+2reb, P.Afonso 6+2reb

Sangalhos - Terceira 55-42

There was no surprise when bottom-ranked Terceira (0-3) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Sangalhos (2-1) 55-42. It looked good early as Terceira took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Sangalhos had a 15-9 second period charge getting the lead and Terceira was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 42-55. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Terceira to just 7 points in third quarter. It was a good game for forward Nuno Bizarro (192-80) who led his team to a victory with 9 points and 12 rebounds. Swingman Emanuel Silva (188-79) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American center Chano Rashiduddin (208, college: Clark Atlanta) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 18 rebounds and forward Frederico Tavares (194-88) added 10 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Terceira. Sangalhos moved-up to third place, which they share with Guifoes and Electrico FC. Terceira at the other side still closes the standings with three games lost. Sangalhos will play against Angrabasket (#8) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Terceira will play against Illiabum in Ilhavo and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Terceira: C.Rashiduddin 15+18reb+2ast, F.Tavares 10+8reb+3ast, F.Ferreira 6+2reb, D.Dias 5+1reb, M.Romao 4+3reb, T.Tomassi 2+3reb+3ast
Sangalhos: E.Silva 15+5reb+1ast, F.Santiago 10+3reb, N.Bizarro 9+12reb+1ast, J.Seabra 7+5reb+7ast, V.Farinha 7+3reb+1ast, L.Fonte 6+6reb+2ast

Illiabum - Angra 75-61

There was a surprise result in Ilhavo where tenth ranked Illiabum (1-2) defeated 4th placed Angrabasket (1-2) 75-61. The game without a history. Illiabum led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Illiabum forced 19 Angrabasket turnovers and had a 17-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for swingman Tiago Raimundo (194-90) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 17 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Guard Alexandre Coelho (178-90) contributed with 15 points and 5 assists for the winners. Four Illiabum players scored in double figures. Forward Alvaro Pontes (190-85) answered with 24 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and Angolan forward Joao Gaspar (196-89) added 13 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Angrabasket. Illiabum left bottom position moving up to seventh place, which they share with Angra. Illiabum will play against bottom-ranked Terceira (#11) in Angra Heroismo in the next round. Angrabasket will play on the road against Sangalhos (#3) to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Angra: A.Pontes 24+7reb, J.Gaspar 13+8reb, F.Gomes 9+6reb+1ast, H.Pola 6+2reb, C.Sousa 5+1ast, J.Paulo Avila 4+1reb+4ast
Illiabum: A.Coelho 15+2reb+5ast, T.Raimundo 14+17reb, F.Martins 13+5reb, M.Queiroz 10+4reb+1ast, J.Fernandes 8+5reb, E.Silva 4+1reb

Ginasio - Maia Basket 65-74

Very expected game in Figueira da Foz where bottom-ranked Ginasio (0-2) was defeated by leader Maia Basket (3-0) 74-65. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 21-17. But Ginasio won second period 16-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Ginasio 41-28 including 31 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for the former international forward Nuno Marcal (205-75) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Pedro Tavares (182-83) contributed with 14 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Tiago Barreiro (187-83) answered with 20 points and 5 assists and swingman Pedro Rocha (190-87) added 19 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Ginasio. Maia Basket have a solid series of three victories in a row. Maia Basket keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Oliveirense. Ginasio at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Benfica B. Maia Basket will play against Benfica B (#9) in Lisboa in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Ginasio will play at home against Electrico FC in Ponte de Sor and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Ginasio: T.Barreiro 20+3reb+5ast, P.Rocha 19+6reb, J.Vieira 10+6reb, J.Soares 6+2reb+1ast, M.Rosa 3+5reb, N.Pereira 3
Maia Basket: N.Marcal 30+13reb, P.Tavares 14+5reb, J.Diamantino 9+6reb, P.Diamantino 6+8reb, R.Pinto 5+2reb+1ast, P.Catarino 4+2reb+1ast

Guifoes - Oliveirense 63-82

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Guifoes (2-1) at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were rolled over by Oliveirense (3-0) 82-63. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. Oliveirense have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Maia Basket. Guifoes at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with Sangalhos and Electrico FC. Oliveirense is looking forward to face Leca (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Guifoes will have a break next round.

LPB Round 3 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

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

Round 3 most important game was a victory of Barcelos over 4th placed Galitos-Tley 72-67 on Thursday night. It was a good game for Montenegrin forward Marko Loncovic (200-91) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Slovenian forward Matic Sirnik (200-91) contributed with 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Antonio Tavares (183-75) answered with 24 points for Galitos-Tley. Barcelos (2-1) moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Ovarense. Newly promoted Galitos-Tley dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. They share it with Fisica and Lusitania. Barcelos is looking forward to face Ovarense (#5) at home in the next round. Galitos-Tley will play against Sampaense in Coimbra and is hoping to win this game.
The game between seventh ranked Ovarense (2-1) and 8th ranked Lusitania (1-2) in Ovarense ended with biggest points difference. Ovarense outscored guests from Angra 82-58. Worth to mention a quality performance of the former international forward Miguel Miranda (205-78) who helped to win the game recording 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Fernando Neves helped adding 18 points. Ovarense's coach Carlos Pinto felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Mohamed Camara (196-83) with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Ovarense moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Barcelos. Lusitania at the other side dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. They share it with Fisica and Galitos-Tley. Ovarense will play against Barcelos (#4) on the road in the next round. Lusitania will play against CAB Madeira in Funchal and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 3 winless Sampaense were beaten by Fisica on the road 66-59. Benfica won against Alges on its own court 70-66.
The most impressive performance of 3rd round was 17 points and 10 assists by Antonio Pires of Alges.

Galitos-Tley - Barcelos 67-72

Round 3 most important game was a victory of Barcelos over 4th placed Galitos-Tley 72-67 on Thursday night. It was a good game for Montenegrin forward Marko Loncovic (200-91) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Slovenian forward Matic Sirnik (200-91) contributed with 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Antonio Tavares (183-75) answered with 24 points and the former international point guard Pedro Pinto (188-88) added 13 points and 4 assists in the effort for Galitos-Tley. Barcelos (2-1) moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Ovarense. Newly promoted Galitos-Tley dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. They share it with Fisica and Lusitania. Barcelos is looking forward to face Ovarense (#5) at home in the next round. Galitos-Tley will play against Sampaense in Coimbra and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Barcelos: M.Sirnik 21+5reb+2ast, M.Loncovic 18+10reb+3ast, N.Oliveira 12+12reb+3ast, R.Coelho 9+3reb+2ast, R.Correia 7+5reb+1ast, C.Fechas 5+1reb+6ast
Galitos-Tley: A.Tavares 24+2reb+3ast, P.Pinto 13+3reb+4ast, J.Ferreira 9+5reb, D.Neves 7+2reb, P.Stevenson 6+11reb+1ast, J.Fernandes 5+3reb+3ast

Fisica - Sampaense 66-59

There was a small surprise when eleventh ranked Fisica (1-2) beat bottom-ranked Sampaense (0-2) in Torres Vedras 66-59. The hosts were already 12 points ahead at halftime and as many as 13 after three quarters before a 19-13 last quarter charge of Sampaense cut the lead to 66-59 at the end of the game. Fisica forced 19 Sampaense turnovers. It was a great evening for point guard Carlos Barroca (182-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 4 assists. Naturalized Sao Tome and Principe power forward Ekjersey Viana (203-77) helped adding 8 points and 14 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American forward Al Rapier (200-89, college: Stony Brook, agency: Dynamics Global Management) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import guard Steve Baker (187-90, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds. Fisica left bottom position moving up to seventh place, which they share with Lusitania and Galitos-Tley. Sampaense at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. Fisica will play against higher ranked Vitoria SC (#3) in Guimaraes in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sampaense will play at home against Galitos-Tley (#7) in Barreiro and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Fisica: C.Barroca 20+4reb+4ast, B.Freire 14+4reb+3ast, C.Dias 11+5reb, E.Rosario 9+10reb+2ast, E.Viana 8+14reb+1ast, M.Pires 2+2reb
Sampaense: A.Rapier 22+10reb, S.Baker 14+6reb+1ast, H.Carvalho 6+3reb, C.Ferreirinho 6+4reb+1ast, J.Sing 4+2reb+5ast, B.Sebirumbi 4+8reb

Ovarense - Lusitania 82-58

The game between seventh ranked Ovarense (2-1) and 8th ranked Lusitania (1-2) in Ovarense ended with biggest points difference. Ovarense outscored guests from Angra 82-58. The game was mostly controlled by Ovarense. Lusitania was better in third quarter 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Lusitania to just 3 points in second quarter. Ovarense forced 20 Lusitania turnovers. Worth to mention a quality performance of the former international forward Miguel Miranda (205-78) who helped to win the game recording 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. International Fernando Neves (194-80) helped adding 18 points. Ovarense's coach Carlos Pinto felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Mohamed Camara (196-83) with 17 points and 7 rebounds and American center Marcel Momplasir (205-81, college: Rhode Island) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ovarense moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Barcelos. Lusitania at the other side dropped to the seventh position with two games lost. They share it with Fisica and Galitos-Tley. Ovarense will play against Barcelos (#4) on the road in the next round. Lusitania will play against CAB Madeira in Funchal and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ovarense: F.Neves 18+3reb+1ast, M.Goncalves 13+6reb, M.Miranda 11+7reb+6ast, S.Coll 10+5reb+3ast, C.Cordeiro 9+3reb, J.Miguel Barbosa 7+3reb+7ast
Lusitania: M.Camara 17+7reb+2ast, J.Goode 14+3reb, M.Momplasir 13+8reb+3ast, A.Sobrinho 10+2reb+3ast, D.Nevels 4+3reb+1ast, D.Monteiro 0+2reb+3ast

Benfica - Alges 70-66

Very expected game when bottom-ranked Alges (0-3) lost on the road to leader Benfica (2-0) 70-66. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Alges won third quarter 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Benfica forced 19 Alges turnovers. It was a great evening for the former international forward Carlos Andrade (197-78, college: Queens, NC) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Seth Doliboa (203-80, college: Wright St.) helped adding 9 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. The best for the losing side was guard Antonio Pires (185-86) with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 assists and international Rui Quintino (194-83) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Four Alges players scored in double figures. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Academica and Vitoria SC. Newly promoted Alges still closes the standings with three games lost. Benfica will play against league's leader Academica in Coimbra in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Alges will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Benfica: C.Andrade 13+10reb+1ast, C.Fonseca 10+2reb, J.Gomes 10+1ast, S.Doliboa 9+7reb+4ast, E.Evora 8+4reb+1ast, H.Evans 6+3reb
Alges: A.Pires 17+4reb+10ast, R.Quintino 16+7reb+2ast, D.Vieira 11+2reb, D.Correia 10+3reb, J.Manuel 7+2reb+1ast, J.Cardoso 5+9reb

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

PUERTO RICO

Halcones Rojos sign Filiberto Rivera - by Marcos Carlo

Halcones Rojos de Veracruz added Puerto Rican guard Filiberto Rivera (190-PG-82, college: UTEP) to replace Carlos Rivera who suffered an injury.

Filiberto played for San German in Puerto Rico and after that joined Titanes in the Dominican Republic. He had 15.07 points and 5.7 assists last season for San German who lost in the semifinals.

After he finishes in Mexico he will join Gaiteros in Venezuela. He is currently a reserve of Gigantes de Carolina.

Rivera declared a reserve of Leones: - by Luis Modestti

BSN declared Carlos Rivera (187-PG-83, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Hofstra) as a reserve of Leones de Ponce after Indios de Mayaguez claimed him for next season.

The league stated that Rivera is a reserve for Ponce since he played there in 2010. When Leones announced that they would not play in 2011 he was sent into a draft and Indios picked him with the condition that he would return to Ponce.

Rivera averaged 13.55 points and 3.1 assists last season for Mayaguez who won the title. He is currently playing for Halcones Rojos where he was named the team captain.

Leones will play in 2012 and the details of the sale are expected to be announced tomorrow.

Capitanes release Ayuso: - by Luis Modestti

Capitanes de Arecibo announced the release of former national team guard Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: USC) after they couldnt reach an agreement.

The player wanted a multi-year deal and team owner, Luis Monrouzeau, said to El Nuevo Dia that they couldn't agree on the amount of money so they released him.

He played in Arecibo for five seasons; the first time was in 2005 where he brought their first title since 1959. He then returned in 2010 and won the title that season and in 2011. Last season he averaged 18.07 points in 27 games.

Ayuso is one of the most productive guards in league history and still at 35 years of age he will find a lot of interested teams, especially in a league that the three-point shot is celebrated more than anything.

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

SERBIA

Euroleague: FC Barcelona Regal ease past Partizan mt:s - by Eurobasket News

FC Barcelona Regal - Partizan mt:s 85:82

FC Barcelona Regal ease past Partizan mt:s 85:82. The Spanish side dominated the game but had some difficulties in the last quarter. After 15 points lead, they allowed the guests to reduce to 2, but grabbed the important win.
Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) scored for 78:63 but Partizan was too far to give up. They erupted with a 9-0 run and reduced to 78:74 when Dejan Musli (213-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) made two free throws. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) broke the silence for his side at 80:74 also from the free throw line. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) replied with a three-pointer for 83:80 with less than a minute to go. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80), made only one free throw for 84:80, while Vladimir Lucic made the same at 84:82. Nathan Jawai made only one free throw for 85:82 and his points were the last in the game.
Marcelinho Huertas paced all the winners with 24 points and Nathan Jawai nailed 16. Juan Carlos Navarro followed them with 15 points in a win. Davis Bertans (203-SF-92) answered with 17 points in defeat and Dejan Musli scored 14. Leo Westermann notched 13, while Vladimir Lucic (202-SF-89, agency: Beo Basket) had 9.

FC Barcelona Regal: Marcelinho Huertas 24, Nathan Jawai 16, Juan Carlos Navarro 15
Partizan mt:s: Davis Bertans 17, Dejan Musli 14, Leo Westermann 13, Vladimir Lucic 9

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

SOUTH KOREA

Standings

KBL Standings

1. Anyang KGC		6-2
2. ET Land		6-2
3. SK Knights		6-2
4. Goyang Orions		6-3
5. Mobis Phoebus		5-3
6. Samsung Th.		4-4
7. LG Sakers		3-5
8. Sonic Boom KT		2-6
9. Dongbu Promy		2-7
10. KCC Egis		1-7

Regular Season: Round 7

Oct. 31: SK Knights - LG Sakers 87-77
Nov. 1: Sonic Boom KT - ET Land 79-68
Nov. 1: Samsung Th. - Dongbu Promy 71-69
Oct. 31: KCC Egis - Anyang KGC 65-85
Oct. 30: Mobis Phoebus - Goyang Orions 62-66
Nov. 2: Mobis Phoebus - Anyang KGC
Nov. 2: KCC Egis - SK Knights

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

SPAIN

EuroLeague: Real Madrid trounce Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid - Cantu 80:66

Real Madrid earned the third EuroLeague victory. They overcame visiting Cantu to gain 3-1 record on top of Group A. Mirza Begic (217-C-85) delivered 17 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Cantu fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Real Madrid started the game aggressively. They ran away for an 18:12 lead after ten minutes. Real dominated throughout the second quarter. The Madrid outfit ensured a 41:26 halftime advantage. Things hardly changed in the second half. Real stayed in control in the third term. They accumulated a 63:48 lead with ten minutes remaining. Cantu cut the margin to 13 points in the fourth frame but never got close enough to threaten the hosts. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) and Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) provided 14 points each for Real Madrid. Pietro Aradori (195-SG-88) answered with 18 points for Cantu. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) and Jeff Brooks (203-F-89, college: Penn St.) netted 13 points apiece in the loss.

Real Madrid: Mirza Begic 17+10 boards, Rudy Fernandez 14, Nikola Mirotic 14
Cantu: Pietro Aradori 18, Maarten Leunen 13, Jeff Brooks 13

EuroLeague: Unicaja extinguish ALBA in Malaga - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja - ALBA 67:62

Unicaja nailed a home win over ALBA in the fourth round of EuroLeague. The Spaniards improved thus at 3-1 record in Group B. Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) finished with 14 points to lead the home side.
Unicaja dropped 22 points in the opening quarter to take a 6-point lead. ALBA reacted with more aggressive defence in the second quarter. The German team limited the hosts to 7 points in the period to secure a 34:29 halftime lead. Unicaja used a 6:0 run midway through the third term to regain the lead. They entered the fourth quarter up by 4 points 47:43. Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) and Schaffartik gave ALBA a 51:50 lead midway through the final stanza. However Unicaja immediately spurred in front and rolled to the victory. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) netted 12 points, while Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) had 9 points in the victory. Deon Thompson answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for ALBA. Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) netted 14 points in the loss.

Unicaja: Earl Calloway 14, Krunoslav Simon 12, Augusto Cesar Lima 9
ALBA: Deon Thompson 17, Heiko Schaffartzik 14

EuroLeague: Anadolu Efes upset Caja Laboral in Vitoria - by Eurobasket News

Caja Laboral - Anadolu Efes 64:76

Jordan Farmar (188-PG-86, college: UCLA) nailed 18 points to make sure Anadolu Efes come out as winners from EuroLeague battle versus Caja Laboral. It became the third victory for the Istanbul team in Group C.
Caja Laboral looked the better side in the opening frame. The hosts posted a 19:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. The Vitoria outfit cleared off in the second stanza. Caja Laboral accumulated a comfortable 48:30 halftime advantage. But Anadolu Efes refused to give up. The Turkish team went on a massive 22:7 run in the third term to cut the deficit at 3-point mark. Anadolu Efes opened the final stanza with 11 straight points to pull in front. Caja Laboral seemed stunned as Anadolu Efes soon opened a double-digit advantage. The hosts never recovered as Anadolu Efes cruised to the victory. Kerem Gonlum (208-PF-77) netted 10 points, while Semih Erden (211-F/C-86) and Esteban Batista (208-C/F-83, agency: Duran International) had 9 points each for the winners. Carlos Cabezas (186-PG-80) responded with 12 points for Caja Laboral. Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) had 11 points in defeat.

Caja Laboral: Carlos Cabezas 12, Andres Nocioni 11
Anadolu Efes: Jordan Farmar 18, Kerem Gonlum 10, Semih Erden 9, Esteban Batista 9

Sergio Llull re-signs with Real Madrid until 2018 - by Eurobasket

Real Madrid (ACB) re-signed their 25-year old international shooting guard Sergio Llull (192-87) for another 5 seasons. The players contract extends until 2017-18 season. In his first Euroleague game this season he had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. He also played 3 games in ACB where he recorded 12.0ppg, 1.3rpg and 4.3apg. Llull also played 46 games in ACB for the same team last season where he averaged 10.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.9apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. Great season indeed as he was voted to Eurobasket.com All-ACB 2nd Team and All-Domestic Players Team. Llull also played 16 games in Euroleague where he averaged 7.4ppg, 1.5rpg and 3.2apg.
Three years ago he was drafted by Denver Nuggets (NBA) in second round (34th overall).
Llulls team won Spanish ACB Regular Season in 2008.
He has been also a member of Spanish international program for some years. Llull has played for Senior National Team since 2009 and previously for U20 National Team back in 2006. He represented Spain at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) this year. Llulls team won Silver and his stats at that event were 8 games: 5.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 66.7%.
Llull has played previously for Assignia Manresa.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Sergio Llull re-signs with Real Madrid until 2018 - by Eurobasket

Real Madrid (ACB) re-signed their 25-year old international shooting guard Sergio Llull (192-87) for another 5 seasons. The players contract extends until 2017-18 season. In his first Euroleague game this season he had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. He also played 3 games in ACB where he recorded 12.0ppg, 1.3rpg and 4.3apg. Llull also played 46 games in ACB for the same team last season where he averaged 10.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.9apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. Great season indeed as he was voted to Eurobasket.com All-ACB 2nd Team and All-Domestic Players Team. Llull also played 16 games in Euroleague where he averaged 7.4ppg, 1.5rpg and 3.2apg.
Three years ago he was drafted by Denver Nuggets (NBA) in second round (34th overall).
Llulls team won Spanish ACB Regular Season in 2008.
He has been also a member of Spanish international program for some years. Llull has played for Senior National Team since 2009 and previously for U20 National Team back in 2006. He represented Spain at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) this year. Llulls team won Silver and his stats at that event were 8 games: 5.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 66.7%.
Llull has played previously for Assignia Manresa.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Euroleague: FC Barcelona Regal ease past Partizan mt:s - by Eurobasket News

FC Barcelona Regal - Partizan mt:s 85:82

FC Barcelona Regal ease past Partizan mt:s 85:82. The Spanish side dominated the game but had some difficulties in the last quarter. After 15 points lead, they allowed the guests to reduce to 2, but grabbed the important win.
Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) scored for 78:63 but Partizan was too far to give up. They erupted with a 9-0 run and reduced to 78:74 when Dejan Musli (213-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) made two free throws. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) broke the silence for his side at 80:74 also from the free throw line. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) replied with a three-pointer for 83:80 with less than a minute to go. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80), made only one free throw for 84:80, while Vladimir Lucic made the same at 84:82. Nathan Jawai made only one free throw for 85:82 and his points were the last in the game.
Marcelinho Huertas paced all the winners with 24 points and Nathan Jawai nailed 16. Juan Carlos Navarro followed them with 15 points in a win. Davis Bertans (203-SF-92) answered with 17 points in defeat and Dejan Musli scored 14. Leo Westermann notched 13, while Vladimir Lucic (202-SF-89, agency: Beo Basket) had 9.

FC Barcelona Regal: Marcelinho Huertas 24, Nathan Jawai 16, Juan Carlos Navarro 15
Partizan mt:s: Davis Bertans 17, Dejan Musli 14, Leo Westermann 13, Vladimir Lucic 9

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

SWEDEN

Standings - Basketligan

Basketligan Standings

1. Sodertalje		6-1
2. Boras		6-2
3. Sundsvall		5-2
4. Uppsala		5-3
5. Solna		5-3
6. 08		4-3
7. Norrkoping		4-4
8. Jamtland		3-4
9. LF Basket		3-5
10. Eagles		3-5
11. Eco Orebro		1-6
12. Nassjo		0-7

Regular Season: Round 7

Oct. 30: Solna - Eco Orebro 86-72
Oct. 30: Sodertalje - Eagles 86-68
Oct. 26: 08 - Norrkoping 81-68
Oct. 26: LF Basket - Sundsvall 77-92
Oct. 26: Nassjo - Uppsala 65-95
Oct. 26: Jamtland - Boras 115-110

Round 9

Oct. 30: Uppsala - Norrkoping 87-94

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 1: Boras - LF Basket
Nov. 1: Eagles - Solna
Nov. 2: Sundsvall - Sodertalje
Nov. 2: Eco Orebro - Nassjo
Nov. 2: Norrkoping - Jamtland

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

James MILLER
  Boras
  (180-PG-79)
  Avg: 25.8

1. Miller, Boras	25.8
2. Oglesby, Boras	19.3
3. Palm, Boras	19.0
4. Wesby, Sundsvall	19.0
5. Bizaca, Sodertalje	18.6
6. Klaric, Jamtland	18.4
7. Jeansson, Uppsala	17.9
8. Sigurdarson, Sunds.	17.8
9. Krayem, Eagles	17.8
10. Walker, Nassjo	17.7

Rebounds Per Game

Michael PALM
  Boras
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Palm, Boras	10.6
2. Baeringsson, Sunds.	9.7
3. Toutziarakis, Solna	8.9
4. Simms, Sodertalje	8.4
5. Taylor, Eagles	8.3
6. Walker, Nassjo	8.1
7. McKnight, Boras	8.0
8. Santee, Eco Orebro	8.0
9. Thomas, Boras	7.5
10. Brown, 08	7.1

Assists Per Game

Rhys CARTER
  Uppsala
  (190-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Carter, Uppsala	5.4
2. Miller, Boras	5.3
3. Jeromanovs, Norrk.	5.1
4. Castle, Eco Orebro	4.9
5. Chuk, Sodertalje	4.6
6. Krayem, Eagles	4.4
7. Dugat, LF Basket	4.3
8. Hellgren, Jamtland	4.2
9. Stefanovic, Eagles	4.1
10. Beck, 08	4.1

Steals Per Game

Mario FERNANDES
  Jamtl.
  (176-PG-82)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Fernandes, Jamtl.	2.6
2. Carter, Uppsala	2.1
3. Jackson, Uppsala	2.0
4. McKnight, Boras	1.8
5. Stefanovic, Eagles	1.8
6. Walker, Nassjo	1.7
7. Castle, Eco Orebro	1.7
8. Dugat, LF Basket	1.6
9. Krayem, Eagles	1.6
10. Wazzi, Nassjo	1.6

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Norrkoping
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Hughes, Norrkoping	1.9
2. Simms, Sodertalje	1.7
3. Henderson, LF Ba.	1.5
4. Taylor, Eagles	1.0
5. Palm, Boras	1.0
6. Johnson, Solna	1.0
7. McKnight, Boras	0.8
8. Cvilak, 08	0.7
9. Grace, Eco Orebro	0.6
10. Hudson, Jamtland	0.6

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

SYRIA

Syrian Senior National Team starts prepartion fo Arab National Team Championship - by Tarek Burhan

after Eid Al-Fitr holiday done, the Syrian Basketball Federation invited 18players to represent the Syrian National team in the next competitions, the first upcomning competition is Arab National team championship at December, Iraq will host this competition .. here is the list of the 18players who invites for the camp:
Rami Merjaneh
Ahmad Ishak
Anthony Bakar
Mahmoud Osfira
Azmi AbdAlNour
Kotaiba Akkash (198-SF-92)
Wael Jlilati
Salah Hamwi (204-PF/C-89)
Tarek Al-Jabi
Okba Baghajati
Siboh Kharajian (184-SF-92)
Tarek Sibaai
Tofy Saleh
Bilal Jned
Abdul Wahab Hamowi
Joseph Abboud
Jameel Sder
Majid Bou-Aita

Head Coach : Imad Othman
Assistant Coach : Haitham Jameel

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

TURKEY

EuroLeague: Fenerbahce hold off Panathinaikos - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce - Panathinaikos 73:64

Fenerbahce registered the third win in EuroLeague Group A. They toppled visiting Panathinaikos tonight. Panathinaikos fell at 2-2 record after the defeat. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) and Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) provided 13 points each to lead the winners.
Fenerbahce eked out a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts cleared off in the second quarter. The Turkish team went on a 23:12 run to take a 13-point lead at the intermission. The hosts kept defensive pressure on the Greek team after the big break. Fenerbahce limited the Greens to 12 points in the period to take a 17-point advantage into the fourth stanza. Panathinaikos erupted for 23 points in the final stanza but could not rescue the game losing it at the end. Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) notched 12 points and 7 rebounds for Fenerbahce. Jonas Maciulis (199-F/G-85) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Panathinaikos. Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) produced 12 points in the loss.

Fenerbahce: Bojan Bogdanovic 13, Bo McCalebb 13, Ilkan Karaman 12
Panathinaikos: Jonas Maciulis 14+10 boards, Dimitris Diamantidis 12

EuroLeague: Anadolu Efes upset Caja Laboral in Vitoria - by Eurobasket News

Caja Laboral - Anadolu Efes 64:76

Jordan Farmar (188-PG-86, college: UCLA) nailed 18 points to make sure Anadolu Efes come out as winners from EuroLeague battle versus Caja Laboral. It became the third victory for the Istanbul team in Group C.
Caja Laboral looked the better side in the opening frame. The hosts posted a 19:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. The Vitoria outfit cleared off in the second stanza. Caja Laboral accumulated a comfortable 48:30 halftime advantage. But Anadolu Efes refused to give up. The Turkish team went on a massive 22:7 run in the third term to cut the deficit at 3-point mark. Anadolu Efes opened the final stanza with 11 straight points to pull in front. Caja Laboral seemed stunned as Anadolu Efes soon opened a double-digit advantage. The hosts never recovered as Anadolu Efes cruised to the victory. Kerem Gonlum (208-PF-77) netted 10 points, while Semih Erden (211-F/C-86) and Esteban Batista (208-C/F-83, agency: Duran International) had 9 points each for the winners. Carlos Cabezas (186-PG-80) responded with 12 points for Caja Laboral. Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) had 11 points in defeat.

Caja Laboral: Carlos Cabezas 12, Andres Nocioni 11
Anadolu Efes: Jordan Farmar 18, Kerem Gonlum 10, Semih Erden 9, Esteban Batista 9

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

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Walter Hodge selected the top Virgin Islander playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Virgin Islanders who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Walter Hodge

#1. This week's number one is an international point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL. He could not help Stelmet ZG (3-2) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Hodge's very good performance Stelmet ZG was defeated 84-72 at home by the second-ranked Trefl Sopot. He scored 15 points, made 3 passes and 4 steals. But the season just started, so everything may happen. Hodge belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #3) and also on the list of best passers (third place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hodge averages: 18.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 6.0apg, 3.4spg, 2FGP: 55.4%(31-56) and FT: 86.7%. He has a dual citizenship: U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican. Hodge is currently a member of the U.S. Virgin Islands senior national team.

Cuthbert Victor

#2. Second place goes to an international forward Cuthbert Victor (197-83, college: Murray St., currently plays in France). He contributed to a 1-point Le Mans' victory against the 13th-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (0-4) 66-65 in the French ProA on Friday night. Victor recorded 9 points and added 4 passes in 29 minutes. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (3-1) is placed third in the ProA. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. It's Victor's first year with the team. This season his overall stats are: 9.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.5apg, 2FGP: 66.7%(16-24) in the four games he played so far. Victor played for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team in 2011.

Frank Elegar

#3. The U.S. Virgin Islands player who performed third best last week abroad was former international center Frank Elegar (208-86, college: Drexel, currently plays in VTB United League). He was not able to help Kalev/Cramo (1-3) in their game against Unics Kazan (3-1) in the VTB United League. Elegar recorded 8 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. The eighth-placed Kalev/Cramo was defeated 86-72 on the road by the higher-ranked Unics Kazan (#3) in the group A of VTB United League. It was Kalev/Cramo's third consecutive loss in a row. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. It's Elegar's first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 7.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 55.6%(10-18) and FT: 75.0%. Elegar played for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team two years ago.

Gregory Washington

#4. Power forward Gregory Washington (208-84, college: Hofstra, currently plays in Denmark) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Horsholm (3-3) 90-72 in the Danish Ligaen last Saturday. He scored 7 points, had 6 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 22 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Svendborg Rabbits (8-0) is placed second in the Ligaen. So far his team won all eight games in the Regular Season. Washington is currently first on the league's list of best blockers with 2.4bpg. This year he also averages: 16.5ppg and 7.8rpg in the eight games. Washington is also U.S. Virgin Islands national team player.

Ivan Aska

#5. International forward Ivan Aska (200-90, college: Murray St., currently plays in Belgium) was not able to secure a victory for Leuven Bears (1-3) in their game against Base Oostende (2-2) in the Belgian Ethias League. He recorded 8 points. Leuven Bears was crushed 100-57 in Oostende by the higher-ranked Base (#5). It was Leuven Bears' third consecutive loss in a row. Aska is currently seventh on the league's list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.0ppg and 6.3rpg. Aska is another player who holds two passports: U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican. He plays currently for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team.

One more player who has never been selected to any of national teams, but has U.S. Virgin Islands passport:

#1. Experienced Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest, currently plays in NBA) led San Antonio Spurs to a victory over the New Orleans Hornets (0-1) 99-95 in the NBA in Wednesday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Duncan had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 3 assists and 3 blocks in 34 minutes. It was his first game for San Antonio Spurs this season. His team have 1-0 record this season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Duncan's 16th year with the team. Duncan has a dual citizenship: U.S. Virgin Islands and American.

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

UKRAINE

UNITED KINGDOM

Achara Is Loving Life In Glasgow - by Paul Nilsen

Great Britain international forward Kieron Achara (208-F/C-83, agency: Two Points, college: Duquesne) is loving his time with Glasgow Rocks.

After helping GB to ninth place in the London Olympics, where he played alongside Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders' forward Drew Sullivan, Achara joined the Rocks at the start of October.

"I'm really enjoying it," said the 29-year-old. "It's good to be at home and have the chance for my friends and family to watch me play.

"I played with the Scottish national team a couple of years back, but [apart from a single BBL Trophy game with the Rocks in 2010] it's the first time I've played senior club basketball here, I'm pleasantly surprised about the turn-outs we've been getting."

Achara is clearly enjoying playing at the new Emirates Arena: "It's a very nice arena with everything you could ask well. It's well looked after a there's a lot of families coming to watch us, so I'm very happy to be part of it at the moment. But I am in a situation where I love being at home, but I want to retain my competitive edge and although I love being back in Scotland, I have to keep my option open."

"We've been inconsistent, but I expected that. Trying to fit me into the line-up on a temporary basis is tough, because we can't have everything running through me because if I leave, Rocks will have to rebuild.

"So it's been a difficult transition, but I'm helping in every way I can and the team have some great young talent and I believe as the season goes on they'll improve - especially with consistency - and their maturity will grow as well."

The GB big man has high praise for Rocks' player-coach Sterling Davis: "He's a great stand-up guy and leads by example. He's