EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 11/24/2012 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   



Jersey Express unveil new roster - by Gianni Pascucci

According with an official commuincation from Owner miss Marsha Blount , this down is the 2012-1013 team roster of the ABA Jersey Express. As you can see, the onlyt two returnees from last year team are Sedale Walton (6'1''-G-85) and Edgardo Torres (6'3''-G-85, college: Rowan). Bosnian Almin Hodzic (6'10''-C-87, agency: FCM, college: Dominican, NY) supplies the international flavour. The coach will be again Joseph Amador

5 JaShon Mixon G/F 6-6 Newark, NJ
7 Christopher Martin G 6-2 Sicklerville, NJ
9 Sedale Walton G 6-1 Bristol, PA
12 Michael Edghill G 6-1 Plainfield, NJ
10 Edgardo Torres G 6-3 Camden, NJ
15 Jamal Webb F 6-5 Tuckahoe, NY
20 Justin Hamilton F 6-7 Pittsburgh, PA
21 Devon Young F 6-5 South Brunswick, NJ
22 Charles Smith F 6-7 Newark, NJ
33 William McDonough C/F 6-9 Spring Lake HTS, NJ
50 Almin Hodzic C 6-10 Budd Lake, NJ

Head Coach: Joseph Amador
Asst. Head Coach:Ray Ortiz
Team Trainer: Vanessa Carney


*****************************************************
  ANGOLA   


Libolo Basketball club conclude two-year deal with Luis Magalhaes - by Eurobasket News

The former coach of Primeiro de Agosto, Luis Magalhaes has signed a two-year contract with Recreativo de Libolo.

The portoguese-born has taken over Angolan-born Ral Duarte who had managed the club for the past four years.

According to portalangop.co.ao, Duartes assistants, Ricardo Rodrigues and Jaime Prades, would maintain their posts under Lus Magalhes


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


South American League 2012: Penarol thump Obras to reach Finals - by Eurobasket News

Penarol - Obras 73:56

Penarol joined Regatas Corrientes in the South American League Final stage. They knocked down Obras Sanitarias to clinch the second qualifying spot from Group F. Leonardo Gutierrez (201-F/C-78) came up with 22 points to pace Penarol.
It was rather a one-way traffic. Penarol grabbed a 26:15 lead ten minutes into the game. They stretched the gap in the second quarter. Penarol accumulated a 44:21 halftime lead. Obras tried to bounce back in the third term. They cut the deficit to 20 points with one quarter to go. But the gap proved too deep to overcome. Penarol cruised to the victory at the end. David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) provided 15 points, while Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91) added 13 points for the winning team. Jason Forte (196-G/F-84, college: S.Mississippi) answered with 17 points for Obras. Pablo Espinoza (200-F-87) had 9 points in the loss.

Penarol: Leonardo Gutierrez 22, David Teague 15, Facundo Campazzo 13
Obras: Jason Forte 17, Pablo Espinoza 9


South American League 2012: Regatas edge Libertad to reach Final stage - by Eurobasket News

Regatas Corrientes - Libertad Sunchales 78:72

Regatas Corrientes advanced into South American League Final stage. They overcame Libertad Sunchales in the decisive game in Group F. Paolo Quinteros (190-G/F-79) delivered 17 points to lead the winners.
Regatas enjoyed a 20:15 lead after the opening quarter. Libertad however picked up the tempo in the second term. They cut the margin by four points to trail by just one at halftime 38:37. Regatas dropped 23 points in the third term to ensure an 8-point advantage into the fourth period. Libertad denied the deficit and Gabriel Mikulas (200-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) gave them a 70:69 lead midway through the final term. But back-to-back triples from Javier Martinez and Paolo Quinteros allowed Regatas to regain control and they marched to the victory at the end. Federico Kammerichs (202-F-80) provided 16 points and 12 boards, while Jerome Meyinsse (206-C-88, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Virginia) added 12 points for the winners. Gabriel Mikulas answered with 18 points and 12 boards for Libertad. Ricardo Sanchez (212-C-87) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Regatas Corrientes: Paolo Quinteros 17, Federico Kammerichs 16+12 boards, Jerome Meyinsse 12
Libertad Sunchales: Gabriel Mikulas 18+12 boards, Ricardo Sanchez 13


*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings
 1. Breakers 7-2 
 2. Hawks 6-1 
 3. Kings 6-4 
 4. 36ers 5-3 
 5. Wildcats 4-3 
 6. Taipans 3-6 
 7. Tigers 2-5 
 8. Crocodiles 0-9 

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 22: Wildcats - Breakers 89-64
Nov. 23: Taipans - Kings 76-83
Nov. 24: Crocodiles - Wildcats
Nov. 25: Tigers - Hawks


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Ben MADGEN
  Kings
  (193-G/F-85)
  Avg: 21
 1. Madgen, Kings21.0 
 2. Deleon, Hawks16.9 
 3. Jackson, Breakers15.7 
 4. Scott, Tigers15.3 
 5. Tragardh, Taipans15.2 
 6. Lisch, Wildcats15.1 
 7. Knight, Wildcats14.7 
 8. Johnson, 36ers14.4 
 9. Wilson, Taipans14.4 
 10. Ervin, Crocodiles14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Seth SCOTT
  Tigers
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Scott, Tigers8.6 
 2. Johnson, 36ers8.1 
 3. Lazare, Kings7.4 
 4. Davidson, Hawks7.3 
 5. Holmes, Crocodiles7.3 
 6. Crosswhite, Kings7.2 
 7. Forman, Hawks7.0 
 8. Vukona, Breakers6.9 
 9. Petrie, 36ers6.9 
 10. Tragardh, Taipans6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Jackson, Breakers7.9 
 2. Ervin, Crocodiles4.4 
 3. Gibson, 36ers4.0 
 4. Henry, Kings3.6 
 5. Martin, Wildcats3.4 
 6. Redhage, Wildcats3.0 
 7. Wilson, Taipans2.9 
 8. Cadee, 36ers2.9 
 9. Martin, Hawks2.9 
 10. Goulding, Tigers2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Jackson, Breakers2.4 
 2. Deleon, Hawks1.6 
 3. Ervin, Crocodiles1.5 
 4. Henry, Kings1.4 
 5. Wagstaff, Wildcats1.3 
 6. Martin, Wildcats1.3 
 7. Williams, Taipans1.2 
 8. Edwards, Taipans1.2 
 9. Lisch, Wildcats1.1 
 10. Boucher, Breakers1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Breakers
  (213-C-87)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Pledger, Breakers2.1 
 2. Scott, Tigers1.6 
 3. Schenscher, 36ers1.3 
 4. Garlepp, Kings1.1 
 5. Forman, Hawks1.1 
 6. Boucher, Breakers0.7 
 7. Knight, Wildcats0.7 
 8. Tragardh, Taipans0.7 
 9. Hudson, Breakers0.7 
 10. Gliddon, Taipans0.6 



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

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings
Group A
 1. Ventspils 7-0 
 2. Siauliai 5-2 
 3. Naglis Palangos 2-3 
 4. Barsy Atyrau 2-3 
 5. Rapla 1-4 
 6. TTU 1-6 
Group B
 1. TU/Rock 7-1 
 2. Lietkabelis 5-1 
 3. Juventus 3-3 
 4. Jelgava 2-4 
 5. Liepaja 2-5 
 6. Valga 1-6 
Group C
 1. Rudupis 8-0 
 2. Tarvas 4-3 
 3. Sakalai 3-3 
 4. Nevezis 3-4 
 5. Barons kvartals 2-5 
 6. Tln Kalev 1-6 
Group D
 1. Pieno Zvaigzdes 5-0 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 3-1 
 3. Valmiera 3-3 
 4. Parnu 1-3 
 5. LSU-Baltai 0-5 

Regular Season: Round 10

Nov. 23: TU/Rock - Valga 98-66
Nov. 26: Pieno Zvaigzdes - Kalev/Cramo
Nov. 27: LSU-Baltai - Kalev/Cramo
Nov. 27: Jelgava - Juventus
Nov. 28: Sakalai - Nevezis
Nov. 29: Liepaja - Jelgava
Nov. 30: Parnu - Valmiera
Nov. 30: Naglis Palangos - Rapla
Nov. 30: Valga - Lietkabelis


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Tamm, Tarvas19.3 
 2. Okoye, Tln Kalev18.4 
 3. Gulbis, Barons k.17.9 
 4. Orelikas, Rudupis17.0 
 5. Matyukevych, Bars.16.6 
 6. Gates, Pieno Z.16.4 
 7. Leonard, Juventus15.5 
 8. Lengvinas, Naglis15.4 
 9. Samenas, Siauliai14.6 
 10. Kisielius, Juvent.14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ike OKOYE
  Tln Kalev
  (206-F-)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Okoye, Tln Kalev10.3 
 2. Matyukevych, Bars.10.0 
 3. Cipruss, Lietkabel.8.5 
 4. Timma, Ventspils8.4 
 5. Arnold, TTU7.4 
 6. Gulbis, Barons k.7.3 
 7. Rozitis, Barons k.7.1 
 8. Bishop, Nevezis7.1 
 9. Varnelis, Juventus7.0 
 10. Tamm, Tarvas7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Zygimantas JANAVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Janavicius, Rudupis5.8 
 2. Campbell, Tln Kalev5.0 
 3. Viskontas, Juvent.4.7 
 4. Tamm, Tarvas4.6 
 5. Artamonov, Siauliai4.6 
 6. Silavs, Jelgava4.5 
 7. Dambrauskas, Sakal.4.4 
 8. Ginevicius, Lietka.4.3 
 9. Leonard, Juventus4.3 
 10. Cunda, Valga4.2 
Steals Per Game
 TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Hughes, Pieno Z.3.2 
 2. Janavicius, Rudupis2.3 
 3. Laane, Rapla2.2 
 4. Kanbergs, Jelgava2.2 
 5. Leppik, TU/Rock2.0 
 6. Mizis, Jelgava2.0 
 7. Mockevicius, Nagli.2.0 
 8. Labuckas, Rudupis1.9 
 9. Sims, Ventspils1.9 
 10. Maceina, Pieno Z.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jekabs ROZITIS
  Barons k.
  (205-C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Rozitis, Barons k.2.0 
 2. Silinskis, Nevezis1.7 
 3. Ramasauskas, Saka.1.5 
 4. Kupsas, Lietkabelis1.5 
 5. Petrukonis, Juven.1.2 
 6. Meiers, Ventspils1.1 
 7. Matyukevych, Bars.1.0 
 8. Zyle, Nevezis1.0 
 9. Toome, TU/Rock1.0 
 10. Dia, Siauliai1.0 



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

Standings - Division II

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

Regular Season: Round 12

Nov. 23: Point Chaud - Giants II 86-57
Nov. 24: St-Niklase - Waregem
Nov. 24: Tongeren - Oudenaarde
Nov. 24: Kangor.-Boom - Sint-Jan Ant.
Nov. 25: Essor Charleroi - CEP Fleurus
Nov. 25: Gembo BBC - Gent Dragons
Nov. 25: Houthalen - Excelsior



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


Nedzad Sinanovic extends with Valladolid - by Eurobasket News

Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) has agreed on terms of contract extension with Valladolid. The Bosnian centre will stay with the team until the end of the season. Nedzad Sinanovic joined Valladolid at the start of the season signing a short-term deal. He posted 9.6 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in ACB. Last season the centre spent with Unicaja Magala. Nedzad Sinanovic averaged 3.4 points and 2.3 boards per Euroleague game. In ACB his stats read 4.1 points and 3.2 rebounds per appearance. He has been the member of the Bosnian National Team since 2007. The centre notched 4.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. Eurobasket.com named Nedzad Sinanovic All-Spanish LEB Gold Co-Player of the Year in 2011.


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


Sao Jose/Vinac grab lead in Paulista League title series - by Eurobasket News

Pinheiros/Sky - Sao Jose/Vinac 76:79

Sao Jose/Vinac surged ahead in the Paulista League championship series. They knocked down Pinheiros/Sky on the road in the opener. Fulvio de Assia and Jefferson Antonio (207-F/C-83) posted 17 points each to pace the visitors.
The visitors spurred in front in the starting quarter. They grabbed a 23:20 lead after the first term. Sao Jose/Vinac stretched the lead in the next period. The visitors enjoyed a 37:29 halftime advantage at the interval. Sao Jose/Vinac built a 12-point buffer heading into the fourth period 58:46. Pinheiros/Sky refused to give up as they unloaded 30 points in the final quarter but still came up short of victory at the end. Deivisson Costa (211-C-80) netted 13 points for Sao Jose/Vinac. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) answered with game-high 26 points for Pinheiros/Sky. Joe Smith (193-G-77, college: Al.-Huntsville) provided 19 points in the loss.
The second game is scheduled for today.

Pinheiros/Sky: Mineiro Ferreira 26, Joe Smith 19
Sao Jose/Vinac: Fulvio de Assis (187-G-81) 17, Jefferson Antonio 17, Deivisson Costa 13


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


Winning debut for Aleksandar Todorov in Balkan - by Vladi Lazarova

39-years old Macedonian coach Aleksandar Todorov began his work with a victory at the head of Balkan. Last night his team defeated Beroe with 86:79 after OT in Stara Zagora. The last period of the game ended 68:68, but in extra time the guest team took an advance thanks to the better experience of some of his players.

Crucial for Balkan in overtime was the presence of 31-years old guard Jordan Bozov (191-G-79, agency: Global Sports Plaza), who made 12 points and didn't make a mistake from the free throw line. Ivan Lilov (196-SG-88) was close to double digits: 14 points and 9 rebounds and Brazilian center Atila Santos (208-C-83, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Minnesota St.) gave the difference under the baskets: 19 points and 9 boards also.

Beroe suffer, because of health problems of its leader Reginald Holmes (193-G-87, college: Morgan St.), who played with a high fever and was far from his best performances. The other American in the squad of Stara Zagora Will Walker (183-G, college: De Paul) did his best - 24 points and 10 assists, but that wasn't enough. Atanas Radev (200-F-81) was able to finish in double figures - 10 points and 13 rebounds, but missed a decisive basket in the last seconds.

"I want to congratulate my friend Georgi Mladenov for the great job he is doing in Beroe. This team has future. I want to thank my predecessor in Balkan and colleague Petar Klechkov, who did an excellent job preparing the players physically and mentally. Balkan has a huge potential and the season is long, we have time to show it", said Todorov, who had just 72 hours between his signing in Balkan on Tuesday afternoon and his official debut on Friday.




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

CIS Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 10

Nov. 23: Lethbridge - UNBC 99-90
Nov. 23: York - Laurier 94-96
Nov. 23: Carleton - Lakehead 94-53
Nov. 23: Cape Breton - St.Mary''s 90-86
Nov. 23: Ottawa - Guelph 90-83
Nov. 23: Alberta - Victoria 89-54
Nov. 21: Laval - UQAM 87-67
Nov. 23: UFV - Manitoba 83-59
Nov. 23: Saskatchewan - UBC 81-84
Nov. 23: Western - Toronto Univ. 81-72
Nov. 23: UPEI - Acadia 79-86
Nov. 23: St.Francis X. - Dalhousie 78-86
Nov. 23: TRU - Regina 78-64
Nov. 23: Laurentian - Waterloo 78-55
Nov. 22: Calgary - Mount Royal 74-53
Nov. 23: Windsor - Ryerson 62-74
Nov. 23: UBC Okanagan - Brandon 59-64
Nov. 23: TWU - Winnipeg 56-76
Nov. 23: Brock - Queen''s 51-85
Nov. 23: Calgary - Mount Royal


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Maxwell ALLIN
  Laurier
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 25
 1. Allin, Laurier25.0 
 2. Lamar, Saskatch.23.6 
 3. Dunn, St.Francis X.23.0 
 4. Perrin, TWU21.7 
 5. Faulkner, Queen''s20.6 
 6. Walton, Manitoba20.6 
 7. Thomas, St.Franc.20.6 
 8. Serresse, Laure.20.5 
 9. Freeman, UFV20.4 
 10. Scrubb, Carleton19.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Maxwell ALLIN
  Laurier
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Allin, Laurier14.5 
 2. Klassen, Acadia13.0 
 3. Salhia, Lakehead10.5 
 4. Phillip, Windsor10.4 
 5. Ezenibe, St.Mary''s9.8 
 6. Faulkner, Queen''s9.2 
 7. Burns, Saskatch.8.9 
 8. Ozsayiner, Manit.8.7 
 9. Waldner, Lethb.8.6 
 10. Reaves, Brandon8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Andrew CUNNINGHAM
  Winnipeg
  (186-G-)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Cunningham, Winnip.6.5 
 2. Walton, Manitoba5.9 
 3. York, UFV5.1 
 4. Jones, Ryerson5.0 
 5. Bonhomme, Brandon5.0 
 6. Singh, Queen''s4.8 
 7. Allin, Laurier4.8 
 8. Johnson, Lethbrid.4.7 
 9. Lamar, Saskatch.4.4 
 10. Baker, Alberta4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Matthew DALEY
  New Brunsw.
  (175--)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Daley, New Brunsw.3.8 
 2. Pink, St.Mary''s3.3 
 3. Donkoh, St.Franc.3.0 
 4. Perrin, TWU2.9 
 5. Cunningham, Winnip.2.8 
 6. Evans, Victoria2.7 
 7. Baker, Saskatch.2.7 
 8. Walton, Manitoba2.6 
 9. Thomas, St.Franc.2.6 
 10. Plumb, UBC2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Matthew CHESSON
  Laurier
  (201-C-)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Chesson, Laurier2.3 
 2. Thomas, St.Franc.2.2 
 3. Moses, Calgary1.9 
 4. Duke, UPEI1.8 
 5. Tufegdzich, York1.8 
 6. Halpin, St.Mary''s1.8 
 7. Coldea, York1.8 
 8. Luby, Brock1.5 
 9. Faulkner, Queen''s1.4 
 10. Aubertin, UNBC1.4 



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


Malaga's Marcus Williams talks heart surgery, journey to Euroleague stardom - by David Pick

On September 2, 2011, Los Angeles native guard Marcus Williams' basketball career was threatened without warning.

The former UConn stud and first round pick in the 2006 NBA draft was just three days into his new Russian contract when Kazan's physical identified a heart tumor. Williams immediately returned to the United States to undergo surgery, keeping him off the hardwood for over three months.

Williams had just capped a noteworthy season with Russian Enisey, averaging 15.3 points and finishing first in the league in assists with 6.8 per game.

Once receiving his worrying medical results, Williams contemplated the worst and began to reminisce about the highlights of his career, such as winning the 2004 NCAA title, being selected 22nd overall by the New Jersey Nets and playing in the Rookies All-Star Game. He also recalled being chosen to play in the Puerto Rican league's All-Star game, earning both the game's MVP and the Skills Contest awards.

It was on the flight home that Williams told himself "I'm sick of asking 'why' to certain things. I just continue to roll with the punches." He was convinced that it didnt matter where he played basketball, as long as he got one more shot to hoop.

Behind an encouraging 25-game comeback in China, Williams pursued a deal that would resurrect his career. The NBA, by the way, wasn't in the cards.

"There was some NBA talk over the summer. I had some camp invites but I never thought about going because I didn't want to do the NBA thing this year. I wanted to play more than anything," Williams told Eurobasket from his luxury patio overlooking the Mediterranean in Malaga, Spain. "Going to the NBA, I would have maybe been a second guard, for sure a third guard on some team and I know I can play basketball -- doing so at a high level was my ultimate goal," he added.

Throughout his rehab process, Williams gained 20-plus pounds of body fat, increasing his weight to 230 pounds, resembling a somewhat taller, non-muscular version of free agent NBA guard Derek Fisher.

Last summer, Williams was determined to get back into shape and like any other off-season, he played for the "L.A. Unified" squad in Los Angeles' famous pro-am Drew League. In July, he participated in a number of vigorous private workouts for European teams.

"It's funny," Williams recalled while looking back on how he was scouted by Spanish Unicaja Malaga. "Our General Manager told someone from my agency that they were on the lookout for a point guard and that they would stop through L.A. on their way to the NBA Summer League. They came to a few workouts, saw me play, and that was it. They were the first team to approach me," the 26-year-old guard said.

Later that month, Malaga's Croatian coach Jasmin Repesa left Williams with a very detailed to-do list before giving team officials the green light to sign the 6-foot-3 guard to a two-year contract.

" (Repesa) has been on my case before I even signed with Malaga. We spoke on the phone many times and he was strict about wanting me to lose my body fat, lose weight, and get into game shape early," the 211-pound healthy Williams revealed.

"I told him I'm willing to do whatever it takes, and though (Repesa) rarely allows us to get comfortable, (Repesa)'s very open minded and trusts us to make the right plays. I'm glad I was able to step in up."

With seven weeks into the Euroleague season, Williams, a Euroleague rookie, is fully recovered and is playing the best ball of his career. He's averaging 11.1 points shooting 41% from beyond the arc and is ranked third in the competition in made 3-pointers (18), leading his team to the Top 16 round with six consecutive victories. Williams also records 3.3 rebounds and 3.6 dimes in just 21 minutes of action.

Between 2006-2010, Williams collected 5.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 203-NBA games for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies.


Foshan signs Shavlik Randolph - by Eurobasket News

Foshan Long Lions (CBA) signed 29-year old American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-109kg-83, college: Duke).
He won NBA Northwest Division championship title in 2009.
Randolph was also voted Asia-Basket.com All-Chinese CBA 3rd Team in 2012.
He has played also professionally in Puerto Rico (Quebradillas and Brujos), NBA (Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers) and China (DongGuan Leopards).
Randolph attended Duke University until 2005 and it will be his eighth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  COSTA RICA   


Ferreteria Brenes Barva opens 2012-13 season with a win - by Gianni Pascucci

Costarican Basketball Federation decided to run the new season in the "European style". this means that First Division-Apertura will be played from November to February. Yesterday night the new season started, and Grupo Babel Perez Zeledon felt to Ferreteria Brenes Barva at home, 69-93
The First Round goes on tonight, with the games Coopenae USJ - Super Cable Grecia, Recope CBO Limon - Sanatura/Escazu. In consequence of the merge between Sanatura and Escazu, there are now only seven teams, and Liceo de Costa Rica will play its first game on next weekend.


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


Diamantopoulos left - Owens came in Keravnos - by Chris Mammides

A sudden change in the roster of Keravnos took place earlier this week since the Greek international Georgios Diamantopoulos (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances) asked the management to leave the team due to personal reasons and the Strovolos management accept that. At the same time and right after two days, the team of Coach Panagiotis Yiannaras agreed financial terms with the American guard Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston), the American guard is a Bulgarian passport holder and came as a Bosman player to replace Diamantopoulos


Round 5: Opening Game of 5th week - Etha vs Apollon 73-63 - by Chris Mammides

Michelin Etha Engomis with 5 players in double figures succeeded a great home win over the newcomer Greek Head Coach Chris Chougaz's Pizza Express Apollon with 73-63 and proved to the Greek Coach that needs to do a lot of changes in the team if he wants to "survive" in the Cyprus league. Apollon is remaining at the last positions of the league together with ENAD with just one victory in five games.
Even though Pizza Express Apollon had in another great performance its super star American forward Brandon Brown (201-F-85, college: CS San Bernar.) who finished the game with 28 points and 13 rebounds being the only player with double digits on behalf of the visitors, the players from Limassol couldn't react in the most crucial part of the game when the difference was cut off from 12 points in the 28th minute to its minimum and just one basket (58-56) in the 34th minute. From that minute and onwards the score from 58-56 and with Etha reacting mainly with Williams and Downey succeeded a solid 15-7 and gave an end in the game once and for all.
The first period ended with 17-13 for the home team with Dejan Cup and Ackida McLain scoring 7 and 7 points respectively while on the other hand Brandon was the leading figure on behalf of the visitors with 5 points.
The second period started much better for the home team and with solid and simple basketball especially in the last five minutes of the first half (25-20) with a 16-8 increased their difference to 41-28 with Downey (9 points), Ogooluwa Adegboye (182-PG-87, college: St.Bonaventure) (7 points) and Cup (9 points) leading their team while on the other hand only Brandon was fighting for the best since Diego Kapelan (190-G-87, college: McNeese St.)'s early fourth foul cut the chances for Apollon's possible comeback.
Against all odds though, Apollon reacted and Brandon's amazing scoring skills gave many hopes to the visitors as initially the 41-34 scored by Noel cut the deficit 3 minutes after the beginning of the 3rd period to find Etha's reactions immediate and end up the period to +9 and 53-44.
The first minutes of the 4th period were dramatic as Apollon with Brandon once more cut the deficit 6.14' to the end to 58-56 and the few fans thought that they would have witnessed a great comeback since Brandon already scored his 26 points (of total 56 of his team) but Diego Kapelan's missed three pointer and free throw were fatal as Etha with Donte Poole (190-G-89, college: Murray St.), Johnson and Ogooluwa Adegboye took the initiatives and gave an early end to the game as Brandon was too tired to continue answering back....
Top scorers:
Etha: Donte Poole 13, Ogooluwa Adegboye, McLain, Johnson 11 per head, Williams 10 and Cup 9
Apollon: Brandon Brown 28, Detrick 8, Diego Kapelan 9
Etha has a 3-2 record while the disapointing Apollon has 1-4


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

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings
 1. Sparta Praha 10-1 
 2. Sokol H.K. 7-2 
 3. Sokol P. 6-4 
 4. Loko Plzen 6-4 
 5. Liberec 6-4 
 6. Ostrava 6-5 
 7. Proton Zlin 5-6 
 8. Nymburk B 4-5 
 9. JBC Brno 4-6 
 10. Kara Trutnov 3-6 
 11. Litomerice 3-6 
 12. U19 1-4 
 13. Sokol V. 1-9 

Regular Season: Round 10

Nov. 23: Sokol P. - Proton Zlin 90-74
Nov. 23: Sparta Praha - Litomerice 79-71
Nov. 23: Sokol V. - Ostrava 78-79
Nov. 23: Loko Plzen - Kara Trutnov 102-86
Nov. 25: JBC Brno - Nymburk B
Nov. 25: Sokol H.K. - Liberec



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

Standings

D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Erie Bay H. 1-0 
 2. Maine RC 1-0 
 3. Iowa E. 0-0 
 4. Santa Cruz W. 0-0 
 5. Sioux Falls S. 0-0 
 6. Springfield A. 0-0 
 7. Canton C. 0-1 
 8. Ft.Wayne MA 0-1 
West Conference
 1. Bakersfield J. 1-0 
 2. Tulsa 66ers 1-0 
 3. Austin T. 0-0 
 4. Idaho S. 0-0 
 5. Los Angeles D. 0-0 
 6. Reno B. 0-0 
 7. Rio Grande VV 0-1 
 8. Texas L. 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 1

Nov. 23: Tulsa 66ers - Texas L. 83-76
Nov. 23: Canton C. - Maine RC 115-123
Nov. 23: Rio Grande VV - Bakersfield J. 113-115
Nov. 23: Ft.Wayne MA - Erie Bay H. 100-109

Regular Season: Round 2

Nov. 24: Canton C. - Springfield A.
Nov. 24: Sioux Falls S. - Iowa E.
Nov. 24: Rio Grande VV - Bakersfield J.
Nov. 25: Tulsa 66ers - Texas L.
Nov. 25: Ft.Wayne MA - Maine RC


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Chris DOUGLAS-ROBERTS
  Texas L.
  (201-G-87)
  Avg: 31
 1. Douglas-R., Texas31.0 
 2. Motiejunas, Rio G.31.0 
 3. Howard, Ft.Wayne.27.0 
 4. Covington, Erie B.27.0 
 5. Roberts, Texas L.22.0 
 6. Kennedy, Erie B.21.0 
 7. Machado, Rio G.20.0 
 8. Major, Bakersfi.20.0 
 9. James, Bakersfi.18.0 
 10. Adrien, Rio G.17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brian BUTCH
  Bakersfi.
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 15
 1. Butch, Bakersfi.15.0 
 2. Sims, Erie Bay H.12.0 
 3. Plumlee, Ft.Wayne.12.0 
 4. Liggins, Tulsa 66e.11.0 
 5. Adrien, Rio G.11.0 
 6. Orton, Tulsa 66ers11.0 
 7. Kennedy, Erie B.10.0 
 8. Saunders, Rio G.10.0 
 9. Muhammad, Bakers.9.0 
 10. Johnson, Ft.Wayn.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Deandre LIGGINS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (198-G-88)
  Avg: 10
 1. Liggins, Tulsa 66e.10.0 
 2. Singletary, Texas8.0 
 3. Machado, Rio G.8.0 
 4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.6.0 
 5. McNeal, Bakersfi.6.0 
 6. Thompson, Erie B.5.0 
 7. Thompson, Tulsa5.0 
 8. Singletary, Rio G.4.0 
 9. Covington, Erie B.4.0 
 10. Morningstar, Tulsa4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 3
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.3.0 
 2. Thompson, Erie B.3.0 
 3. Major, Bakersfi.3.0 
 4. Dennis, Bakersfi.3.0 
 5. Murry, Rio G.3.0 
 6. Koch, Bakersfi.2.0 
 7. Saunders, Rio G.2.0 
 8. Douglas-R., Texas2.0 
 9. Singletary, Texas2.0 
 10. Johnson, Rio G.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeff ADRIEN
  Rio G.
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 4
 1. Adrien, Rio G.4.0 
 2. Eyenga, Texas L.4.0 
 3. Saunders, Rio G.2.0 
 4. Thomas, Texas L.2.0 
 5. James, Bakersfi.2.0 
 6. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
 7. Hardin, Rio G.1.0 
 8. Orton, Tulsa 66ers1.0 
 9. Benson, Erie Bay H.1.0 
 10. Partin, Ft.Wayne.1.0 


2012-13 Opening Night Roster for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers - by Surujh Roopnarine

Rokkie big man Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-F/C-90) and last seasons' NCAA assist-king Scott Machado (6'1''-PG-90, college: Iona) highlight the Rio Grande Valley Vipers roster this season.
Additionally German international big man Tim Ohlbrecht (6'11''-F/C-88) and Glen Rice (6'5''-G-91, college: Georgia Tech) are sure to be names which draw interest all-season long.

2012-13 Rio Grande Valley Vipers
Jeff Adrien (6'7''-F-86, college: Connecticut)
James Anderson (6'6''-G-89, college: Oklahoma St.) (On call-up with San Antonio Spurs)
Dominique Ferguson (6'9''-F, college: FIU)*
Kyle Fogg (6'3''-G-90, college: Arizona)
DeVon Hardin (6'11''-C-86)
Chris Johnson (6'6''-F-90, college: Dayton)
Demetri McCamey (6'3''-G-89, college: Illinois)
Toure Murry (6'5''-G-89, college: Wichita St.)
Reeves Nelson (6'9''-F-91, college: UCLA)*
Tim Ohlbrecht
Glen Rice
Damian Saunders (6'7''-F-88, college: Duquesne)
Mike Singletary (6'6''-F-88, college: Texas Tech)
Donatas Donatas Motiejunas**
Scott Machado**

* Players on Inactive List
** Players on assignment from Houston Rockets


Sioux Falls Skyforce Announce 2012-13 Opening Night Roster - by Surujh Roopnarine

A re-vamped and re-tooled Sioux Falls Skyforce are ready for the 2012-13 D-League season.
NBA veteran Troy Hudson (6'1''-PG-76, college: S.Illinois) will look to make one final run at the NBA while the electrifying "Mini-Mamba" Andrew Goudelock (6'3''-G-88, college: Charleston) will provide the offense for this balanced squad.

2012-13 Sioux Falls Skyforce
Daniel Coleman (6'9''-F-85, college: Minnesota)
Chris Davis (6'3''-G-86, college: Southern)*
Mike Davis (6'9''-F-88, college: Illinois)
Will Foster (7'5''-C-88, college: Gonzaga)
Andrew Goudelock
Troy Hudson
Demetris Nichols (6'9''-F-84, college: Syracuse)
Gabe Pruitt (6'4''-G-86, college: USC)
Mark Tyndale (6'5''-G-86, college: Temple)
Jarvis Varnado (6'9''-F-88, college: Mississippi St.)
Bryant Voiles (6'9''-F-89, agency: N.E.T.)

* Indicates player on Inactive List


Santa Cruz Warriors Announce 2012-13 Opening Night Roster - by Surujh Roopnarine

Freshly re-located from Bismarck, North Dakota the Santa Cruz Warriors have finalized their opening night roster for the 2012-13 season.
Reigning NBA D-League Defensive Player of the year Stefhon Hannah will key a group of mostly young talent which will hope to make a splash this season.

2012-13 Santa Cruz Warriors
Carlon Brown
Chris Daniels
Lance Goulbourne
Taylor Griffin
Stefhon Hannah
Rick Jackson
Justin Johnson
Dominique Johnson
Cameron Jones
Travis Leslie*
Daniel Nwaelele

* Indicates player on Inactive List


Texas Legends Set Final 2012-13 Opening Night Roster - by Surujh Roopnarine

Retired NBA power forward Eduardo Najera is set to lead the Texas legends this season and he will do so with an abundance of talent, specifically of the ex-NBA variety in Melvin Ely (6'10''-C-78, college: Fresno St.), Chris Douglas-Roberts and Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89).

2012-13 Texas Legends
Christian Eyenga
Jefferson Mason (6'6''-G-88, college: Minnesota St.)
Sean Singletary (6'0''-PG-85, college: Virginia)
Solomon Bozeman (6'1''-PG-87, college: UALR)
Vernon Lewis (83)
Chris Roberts (6'4''-G-88, college: Bradley)
Chris Douglas-Roberts (6'7''-G-87, college: Memphis)
Melvin Ely
Ibrahima Thomas (6'11''-F-87, college: Cincinnati)
Darius Rice (6'10''-F-82, college: Miami, FL)
Assane Sene (7'0''-C-90, college: Virginia)*
Kenny Dobbs (84)*

* Player is on Inactive List


Tulsa 66ers Ready for Start of 2012-13 NBA D-League Season - by Surujh Roopnarine

The Tulsa 66ers, Finalists in 2010 and Semifinalists in 2011 will try to rebound from a poor 2011 season this year.
Bolstered by the assignments of Deandre Liggins (6'6''-G-88, college: Kentucky) and Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky), but void of any known star talent, the 66ers will look to field a strong team and challenge for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
To reach the 10-man limit the club placed Anthony Vereen (6'7''-F-86, college: Texas Arlington) and Travis Hyman (7'0''-F/C-87, college: Bowie St.) on the inactive list while waiving center Brian Barkdoll (6'10''-C-89, college: NW Nazarene), forward Ayron Hardy (6'5''-F-88, college: Jacksonville) and guards James Justice (5'10''-PG-89, college: Martin Methodist) and Garrett Williamson (6'5''-G-88, college: St.Joseph's).

2012-13 Tulsa 66ers
Ron Anderson (6'8''-F-89, college: S.Florida)
Rodney Bartholomew (6'8''-F, college: Indiana Tech)
Will Creekmore (6'9''-C-89, college: Missouri St.)
Travis Hyman*
Mario Little (6'6''-G-87, college: Kansas)
Brady Morningstar (6'3''-G-86, college: Kansas)
Andy Rautins (6'4''-G-86, college: Syracuse)
Dominique Sutton (6'5''-F-86, college: N.C.Central)
Tony Taylor (6'1''-PG-90, college: G.Washington)
Hollis Thompson (6'8''-F-91, college: Georgetown)
Anthony Vereen*
Isaiah Wilkerson (6'3''-G-90, college: NJIT)
Deandre Liggins**
Daniel Orton**

* Playeris on Inactive List
** Player is on assignment from Oklahoma City Thunder


Springfield Armor Finalize 2012-13 Opening Night Roster - by Surujh Roopnarine

The Springfield have pared down their roster to 10-men as the club announced that the final cuts from training camp included Nate Brown (6'0''-PG-80, college: St.Peter's), Reginald Delk (6'4''-G-86, college: Louisville) and DeAndre Taylor (6'5''-G-89, ollege: N.Michigan).
Additionally, Chas McFarland (7'0''-C-86, college: Wake Forest) was placed on the inactive list.
McFarland, who will not travel with the Armor to Canton, is serving a one-game suspension for leaving the bench during an on-court altercation in the 2010-11 regular season finale in Rio Grande Valley.

2012-13 Springfield Armor
Chaz Crawford (6'10''-F/C-84, college: Drexel)
James Mays (6'9''-F-86, college: Clemson)
Chas McFarland*
Christian Polk (6'3''-G-87, college: UTEP)
Willie Reed (6'9''-F-90, college: St.Louis)
Carleton Scott (6'8''-F-88, college: Notre Dame)
Shawn Taggart (6'10''-F-85, college: Memphis)
Jonathan Thomas (6'2''-G)
Cliff Tucker (6'6''-G/F, college: Maryland)
Ben Uzoh (6'3''-PG-88, college: Tulsa)
Shawn Vanzant (6'0''-PG-88, college: Butler)

* Player is on Inactive List


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

Standings - KML

KML Standings
 1. TU/Rock 10-0 
 2. Tarvas 9-4 
 3. Kalev/Cramo 6-5 
 4. Rapla 5-3 
 5. Valga 5-5 
 6. TTU 3-5 
 7. Parnu 2-5 
 8. Hito/Johvi 1-8 
 9. Tln Kalev 1-9 

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 23: Tarvas - TTU 76-61
Nov. 24: Rapla - Parnu
Nov. 25: Parnu - TTU
Nov. 30: TTU - Hito/Johvi


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Tamm, Tarvas17.3 
 2. Laksa, Tarvas16.7 
 3. Lindmets, Tarvas16.3 
 4. Pilk, Rapla14.5 
 5. Campbell, Tln Kalev14.4 
 6. Umbrasko, Tarvas13.4 
 7. Akenparg, TTU13.3 
 8. Laane, Rapla12.9 
 9. Okoye, Tln Kalev12.9 
 10. Cunda, Valga12.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 12.5
 1. Raadik, Parnu12.5 
 2. Okoye, Tln Kalev10.0 
 3. Lindmets, Tarvas9.1 
 4. Grim, Valga7.9 
 5. Cunda, Valga7.3 
 6. Grafs, Valga7.1 
 7. Ringmets, Rapla7.1 
 8. Tambre, Hito/Johvi6.6 
 9. Arnold, TTU6.6 
 10. Umbrasko, Tarvas6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Erik KEEDUS
  TTU
  (198-F-90)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Keedus, TTU4.9 
 2. Tamm, Tarvas4.9 
 3. Cunda, Valga4.8 
 4. Campbell, Tln Kalev4.3 
 5. Laane, Rapla4.1 
 6. Saare, Hito/Johvi4.1 
 7. Peciukeviciu., Par.4.0 
 8. Pilk, Rapla2.7 
 9. Paasoja, Rapla2.3 
 10. Matulionis, Parnu2.2 
Steals Per Game
 Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Tamm, Tarvas2.8 
 2. Laane, Rapla2.4 
 3. Akenparg, TTU2.0 
 4. Cunda, Valga1.7 
 5. Keedus, TTU1.6 
 6. Okoye, Tln Kalev1.4 
 7. Tambre, Hito/Johvi1.4 
 8. Campbell, Tln Kalev1.4 
 9. Laksa, Tarvas1.4 
 10. Roos, Tln Kalev1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew ARNOLD
  TTU
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Arnold, TTU1.4 
 2. Okoye, Tln Kalev0.9 
 3. Raadik, Parnu0.8 
 4. Saks, Tarvas0.8 
 5. Grim, Valga0.8 
 6. Tambre, Hito/Johvi0.6 
 7. Makke, TTU0.6 
 8. Uuekula, Hito/Johvi0.5 
 9. Vahter, Tln Kalev0.5 
 10. Matulionis, Parnu0.5 



*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


Good news for BCM Gravelines - Transfer news from Paris-Levallois - by Diamadis Farmakis

BCM Gravelines Dunkerque could use some good news after their shock defeat at Pizza Express Apollon in Group G on Tuesday night, their second in just four days between EuroChallenge and French Pro A. The injury of Juan Edwards, is not so serious. Plus a new addition for Paris. See details.

The French team received the news, upon their return from Cyprus, when the medical staff confirmed that power forward Juan Edwards will only be sidelined for 15 to 20 days

The 30-year-old American picked up a thigh injury in Saturday's home defeat to SLUC Nancy in the Pro A and the initial diagnosis was that he would be out of action for at least six weeks

Following the revised diagnosis BCM have decided not to look for a temporary replacement. Fellow French side Paris-Levallois meanwhile, who have a 2-1 record in Regular Season Group E, confirmed they have agreed terms with forward Julius Hodge.

The 29-year-old Antigua international passed a medical examination on Wednesday and will fill in for injured center Jonathan Aka, who is expected to be out of action for the next six weeks.


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Travis Diener sets new Eurocup assists record - by Diamadis Farmakis

Dinamo Banco di Sardegna Sassari guard Travis Diener (184-PG-82, college: Marquette) set a new Eurocup single-game assists record Wednesday with 15 against Crvena Zvezda Diva at Hala Pionir in Belgrade, where Crvena Zvezda won the high-scoring affair 116-104. Diener delivered 7 first half assists. and 5 more in the third quarter to move within reach of the record

He tied the mark two-and-a-half minutes into the fourth quarter with a dish to Tony Easley for a dunk, as Easley was also the recipient of the record-breaking pass midway through the fourth quarter

The competitions assist record was 14, shared by three players - Roko Ukic was the first to record that many assists in a January 2004 game for KK Split.

Christain Dalmau matched that number when he played for Besiktas in the 2007-08 season and Krsitaps Valters notched 14 assists two seasons later when he played for DKV Joventut.

Dieners effort wasnt the only record set in that game. Crvena Zvezdas 38 two-point baskets made marked the most ever scored in a regulation Eurocup game and tied Lukoil Academic for the most. Academic set the record in a triple-overtime win in November 2003. And Sassaris 18 three-pointers made tied for the second-most made in a Eurocup game. That record is 20.


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

Standings

Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Real Madrid 5-2 
 2. Fener.Ulker 4-3 
 3. Khimky 4-3 
 4. Panathinaikos 4-3 
 5. Un.Olimpija 2-5 
 6. Cantu 2-5 
Group B
 1. Unicaja 6-1 
 2. Maccabi T-A 5-2 
 3. Montepaschi 4-3 
 4. ALBA 3-4 
 5. Chalon 2-5 
 6. Asseco Prok. 1-6 
Group C
 1. Zalgiris 6-1 
 2. Olympiacos 5-2 
 3. Anadolu Efes 4-3 
 4. EA7 Armani 3-4 
 5. Cedevita 2-5 
 6. Caja Laboral 1-6 
Group D
 1. FCB Regal 7-0 
 2. CSKA 6-1 
 3. Besiktas 4-3 
 4. Brose Bask. 2-5 
 5. Lietuvos rytas 1-6 
 6. Partizan 1-6 

Regular Season: Round 7

A

Nov. 22: Fener.Ulker - Un.Olimpija 85-68
Nov. 23: Cantu - Panathinaikos 69-71
Nov. 23: Real Madrid - Khimky 104-81

B

Nov. 23: Montepaschi - Maccabi T-A 89-87
Nov. 22: Chalon - ALBA 82-87
Nov. 22: Unicaja - Asseco Prok. 63-48

C

Nov. 23: Zalgiris - Caja Laboral 82-45
Nov. 22: EA7 Armani - Cedevita 75-60
Nov. 22: Olympiacos - Anadolu Efes 75-53

D

Nov. 22: FCB Regal - Lietuvos rytas 90-66
Nov. 23: Besiktas - Brose Bask. 83-72
Nov. 22: CSKA - Partizan 78-61

Regular Season: Round 8

A

Nov. 29: Khimky - Cantu
Nov. 29: Panathinaikos - Un.Olimpija
Nov. 30: Real Madrid - Fener.Ulker

B

Nov. 29: ALBA - Asseco Prok.
Nov. 29: Maccabi T-A - Chalon
Nov. 30: Montepaschi - Unicaja

C

Nov. 29: Cedevita - Anadolu Efes
Nov. 29: Caja Laboral - EA7 Armani
Nov. 30: Zalgiris - Olympiacos

D

Nov. 29: Partizan - Lietuvos rytas
Nov. 30: Besiktas - FCB Regal
Nov. 30: Brose Bask. - CSKA


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  Montepaschi
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 20.1
 1. Brown, Montepaschi20.1 
 2. Jerrells, Besiktas18.6 
 3. Nachbar, Brose B.16.9 
 4. Fernandez, Real M.16.7 
 5. Weems, CSKA16.6 
 6. Langford, EA7 A.16.1 
 7. Spanoulis, Olympia.16.0 
 8. Popovic, Zalgiris15.7 
 9. Aradori, Cantu15.4 
 10. Baynes, Un.Olimpi.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aaron BAYNES
  Un.Olimpija
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10
 1. Baynes, Un.Olimpija10.0 
 2. Bourousis, EA7 A.8.2 
 3. Williams, Chalon7.6 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA6.6 
 5. Hines, Olympiacos6.4 
 6. Lasme, Panathin.6.3 
 7. Gordon, Partizan6.1 
 8. Zirbes, Brose Bask.6.1 
 9. Thompson, ALBA6.1 
 10. Hrycaniuk, Asseco6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Vassilis SPANOULIS
  Olympiacos
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Spanoulis, Olympia.6.3 
 2. Cook, EA7 Armani5.9 
 3. Diamantidis, Panat.5.7 
 4. Planinic, Khimky5.6 
 5. Blassingame, Assec.5.4 
 6. Brown, Montepaschi5.4 
 7. Farmar, Anadolu5.0 
 8. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.7 
 9. Waters, Un.Olimpija4.6 
 10. Green, Cedevita4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Ricky HICKMAN
  Maccabi .
  (189-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Hickman, Maccabi2.7 
 2. Gordon, Anadolu2.1 
 3. Lucic, Partizan1.9 
 4. Jaaber, Zalgiris1.8 
 5. Farmar, Anadolu1.7 
 6. Draper, Real M.1.7 
 7. McCalebb, Fener.Ul.1.7 
 8. Khryapa, CSKA1.7 
 9. Teodosic, CSKA1.6 
 10. Djedovic, ALBA1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Stephane LASME
  Panathin.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Lasme, Panathin.2.2 
 2. Falker, Besiktas1.9 
 3. Tomic, FCB Regal1.7 
 4. Zoric, Unicaja1.3 
 5. Krstic, CSKA1.3 
 6. James, Maccabi T-A1.3 
 7. Cusin, Cantu1.3 
 8. Pleiss, Caja Labor.1.3 
 9. Khryapa, CSKA1.1 
 10. Thompson, ALBA1.1 


CSKA Moscow release Nicholas - by Eurobasket News

CSKA Moscow (PBL) waived 31-year old American guard Drew Nicholas (193-80kg-81, college: Maryland). In three PBL games he played this season he recorded 9.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg and 1.0spg. Nicholas also played 3 games in VTB United League where he averaged 7.0ppg and 2.0apg. He also played 4 games in Euroleague but he averaged just 0.5ppg.
In 2003 Nicholas was drafted by Texas Rim Rockers (USBL) in seventh round (59th overall).
He attended University of Maryland and it is his tenth season in pro basketball.
Nicholas won Greek League championship title for three years in a row (between 2009 and 2011).
He received also Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Imports Team award in 2011.
Nicholas is a very experienced player. He has played also professionally in Australia (Gladstone Port City Power), Italy (Armani Milano, Benetton Treviso and Livorno), Spain (Caja Laboral) and Turkey (Anadolu Efes).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Besiktas advance to Top 16 by downing Brose Baskets 83-72 - by Baha Kurtulus

Brose Baskets however was still the dominant team on the floor and completely dominated the paint to race into a commanding position at 18-18. Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: California) scored 8 points.
The second frame belonged to Besiktas.. The lead almost reached double figures by the end of first half, however fortunately for Brose Baskets. Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor) scored 2 points last second shot finish the first half at 39-45.
The game was still open at the half, but Besiktas kept on building. They completely hounded the Germans for space and by the end of the third quarter; they were leading by 8 points, 62-54.
The last frame Besiktas tried to conserve difference. 83-72

Patrick Christopher scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. Curtis Jerrells added 17 points and 6 assists. Damir Markota (209-F-85) and Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87) helped them with 13 points 7 rebounds and 10 points 5 rebounds respectively for winner.
Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) netted 21 ( 5/6 three points ) points and Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) added 14 points in defeat.


Shawn James claims Euroleague weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

American Shawn James (207-C-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's second-best Maccabi T-A and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
The 29-year old center had a double-double of 22 points and twelve rebounds, while his team was edged out by Montepaschi (#3, 4-3) 89-87. Maccabi T-A maintains the 2nd position in Euroleague group B. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Maccabi T-A will need to avoid more loses keep or improve their 5-2 record. It's James' second year at Maccabi T-A and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Shawn James averages this season 9.9ppg and 5.4rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old Croatian center Ante Tomic (217-C-87) of league's best team FCB Regal. Tomic impressed basketball fans with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Of course he lead FCB Regal to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Lietuvos rytas (#6, 1-6) 90-66. Of course FCB Regal still keep group D's top spot. He plays for the best team in the league and FCB Regal managed to win all 7 games keeping perfect record. Tomic is a newcomer at FCB Regal and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was American Blake Schilb (200-G/F-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) of Chalon (#5). Schilb showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in the last round. Despite Schilb's great performance Chalon lost 82-87 to slightly higher-ranked ALBA (#4, 3-4). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Chalon can only dream about fighting for top spots in group B. They have rather bad season and 2-5 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Schilb he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Schilb has a very solid season. In 7 games in Euroleague he scored 15.1ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and 4.0apg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) of Real Madrid - 23 points and 3 assists
5. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) of Real Madrid - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) of FCB Regal - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87) of Panathinaikos - 21 points and 9 rebounds
8. Alen Omic (215-C-92) of Un.Olimpija - 13 points and 13 rebounds
9. Zach Morley (203-F-83) of ALBA - 11 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Ioannis Bourousis (213-C-83) of EA7 Armani - 11 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists

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


Malaga's Marcus Williams talks heart surgery, journey to Euroleague stardom - by David Pick

On September 2, 2011, Los Angeles native guard Marcus Williams' basketball career was threatened without warning.

The former UConn stud and first round pick in the 2006 NBA draft was just three days into his new Russian contract when Kazan's physical identified a heart tumor. Williams immediately returned to the United States to undergo surgery, keeping him off the hardwood for over three months.

Williams had just capped a noteworthy season with Russian Enisey, averaging 15.3 points and finishing first in the league in assists with 6.8 per game.

Once receiving his worrying medical results, Williams contemplated the worst and began to reminisce about the highlights of his career, such as winning the 2004 NCAA title, being selected 22nd overall by the New Jersey Nets and playing in the Rookies All-Star Game. He also recalled being chosen to play in the Puerto Rican league's All-Star game, earning both the game's MVP and the Skills Contest awards.

It was on the flight home that Williams told himself "I'm sick of asking 'why' to certain things. I just continue to roll with the punches." He was convinced that it didnt matter where he played basketball, as long as he got one more shot to hoop.

Behind an encouraging 25-game comeback in China, Williams pursued a deal that would resurrect his career. The NBA, by the way, wasn't in the cards.

"There was some NBA talk over the summer. I had some camp invites but I never thought about going because I didn't want to do the NBA thing this year. I wanted to play more than anything," Williams told Eurobasket from his luxury patio overlooking the Mediterranean in Malaga, Spain. "Going to the NBA, I would have maybe been a second guard, for sure a third guard on some team and I know I can play basketball -- doing so at a high level was my ultimate goal," he added.

Throughout his rehab process, Williams gained 20-plus pounds of body fat, increasing his weight to 230 pounds, resembling a somewhat taller, non-muscular version of free agent NBA guard Derek Fisher.

Last summer, Williams was determined to get back into shape and like any other off-season, he played for the "L.A. Unified" squad in Los Angeles' famous pro-am Drew League. In July, he participated in a number of vigorous private workouts for European teams.

"It's funny," Williams recalled while looking back on how he was scouted by Spanish Unicaja Malaga. "Our General Manager told someone from my agency that they were on the lookout for a point guard and that they would stop through L.A. on their way to the NBA Summer League. They came to a few workouts, saw me play, and that was it. They were the first team to approach me," the 26-year-old guard said.

Later that month, Malaga's Croatian coach Jasmin Repesa left Williams with a very detailed to-do list before giving team officials the green light to sign the 6-foot-3 guard to a two-year contract.

" (Repesa) has been on my case before I even signed with Malaga. We spoke on the phone many times and he was strict about wanting me to lose my body fat, lose weight, and get into game shape early," the 211-pound healthy Williams revealed.

"I told him I'm willing to do whatever it takes, and though (Repesa) rarely allows us to get comfortable, (Repesa)'s very open minded and trusts us to make the right plays. I'm glad I was able to step in up."

With seven weeks into the Euroleague season, Williams, a Euroleague rookie, is fully recovered and is playing the best ball of his career. He's averaging 11.1 points shooting 41% from beyond the arc and is ranked third in the competition in made 3-pointers (18), leading his team to the Top 16 round with six consecutive victories. Williams also records 3.3 rebounds and 3.6 dimes in just 21 minutes of action.

Between 2006-2010, Williams collected 5.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 203-NBA games for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies.


Results and Stats from Regular Season Round 7 - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Real Madrid - Khimky 104-81
Real Madrid takes top position in Group A after the home win over Khimky in Spain. The hosts needed a 104:81 victory for 5-2 record on top. The Russian side meanwhile fell at 4-3 record. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Khimky. It was a key game for the top position in Group A. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 104:81. Real Madrid forced 20 Khimky turnovers. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) fired 23 points for the winners. Nikola Mirotic chipped in 17 points and 8 rebounds. Five Real Madrid players scored in double figures. Sergey Monya (202-PF-83) produced 19 points and 4 assists and Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) added 15 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Khimky will play next round against Cantu trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Real Madrid will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Fenerbahce Ulker in Istanbul.

Cantu - Panathinaikos 69-71
Panathinaikos eked out a tough road win over Cantu in Euroleague Group A. The Hellenes improved at 4-3 record, while Cantu fell at 2-5 in the ladder. Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) came up with 21 points and 9 rebounds to pace the visitors. Panathinaikos ensured a 19:15 lead after ten minutes. Cantu however erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Italian team ensured a 34:34 tie game at the interval. The Hellenes pulled in front once again in the third term. Panathinaikos posted a 54:50 lead at the final intermission. Cantu opened the fourth frame on a 9:0 run to take a 5-point lead. Markoishvili made it 66:60 for Cantu with just over three minutes to go. Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) answered with back-to-back three-pointers to knot things up at 66. Lasme and Alex Tyus (205-C-88, college: Florida) exchanged points as the teams stayed tied. Michael Bramos then followed with a three-pointer to give the visitors a 71:68 lead. Cantu could not recover in the late seconds as Jonathan Tabu missed a triple. Dimitris Diamantidis provided 15 points, 7 assists and 4 boards for the winners. Alex Tyus answered with 18 points for Cantu. Jonathan Tabu had 17 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Fener.Ulker - Un.Olimpija 85-68
Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul edge Union Olimpija Ljubljana in the start of Round 7 in EuroLeague. The Turkish side had a strong first half to seal a 85:68 win. Fenerbahce improved to 4-3 record, while the Slovenian side fell at 2-5 record. Fenerbahce Ulker went on a 22-12 lead after the first period and never looked behind after. The hosts added 21-14 in the second frame as Omer Onan and Dylan Page scored for 43:26. The latter also reduced to 43:30 early in the third period, while Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) increased the lead back to 18. Ilkan Karaman closed the third period at 64:48, while another 21-20 in the last stanza brought them the final 17-point victory. Bojan Bogdanovic top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Bo McCalebb added 13. Omer Onan notched 12, while Emir Preldzic (205-SF-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 11. Dylan Page replied with 23 points in the losing effort and Alen Omic tossed in 13. Aaron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.) scored 10, while Klemen Prepelic added 6.

Group B
Montepaschi - Maccabi T-A 89-87
Montepaschi Siena closed the round with the win over Maccabi Electra on Friday night. The Italian team grabbed valuable 89:87 victory. The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 30-22 run, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for Bobby Brown (188-PG-84, college: CS Fullerton) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 6 assists. Daniel Hackett accounted for 13 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Shawn James (207-C-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Northeastern) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds (perfect from the field making all nine shots) and Lior Eliyahu (206-SF-85) added 19 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Maccabi T-A in the defeat. Four Montepaschi Siena and five Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Montepaschi Siena. Defending Italian champion maintains third place in Group B with 4-3 record behind leader Real Madrid. Defending Israeli champion Maccabi T-A keeps the second position with two games lost. Montepaschi Siena's next round opponent will be Unicaja Malaga at home. Maccabi T-A will play against Chalon/Saor.

Unicaja - Asseco Prok. 63-48
Kosta Perovic scored 12 points and Unicajas defence went like clockwork as the Spanish team knocked down Asseco Prokom for the sixth win in Group B of Euroleague. The teams got to rather slow start. They stayed close and entered the second frame tied at 13. Unicaja broke free in the second quarter. The hosts ignited a 21:10 run to establish an 11-point halftime lead. Unicaja limited their opponents to just 8 points in the third term. The gap grew at 16-point mark with ten minutes remaining. Asseco Prokom kept struggling offensively in the final frame as Unicaja easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) delivered 11 points, while Luka Zoric (211-C-84) added 8 points for the winners. Adam Hrycaniuk (206-C-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cincinnati) answered with 10 points for Asseco Prokom. Alex Acker and Rasid Mahalbasic (211-C-90) delivered 9 points each in the loss.

Chalon - ALBA 82-87
Alba Berlin surprise Elan Chalon in France in Euroleague Round 7. The German team needed an 87:82 win for 3-4 record in Group B. The French side meanwhile, dropped at 2-5 record. It was the game for the third victory in the group as both teams had 2-4 records before the appearance. Elan Chalon started with 20-15, bit trailed 2 points at the halftime. After 20-18, the host managed to tie the game at the end of the third period at 63:63 when Blake Schilb closed the period. Alba dominated the last period and led for the whole time in it. Brion Rush however managed to reduce to 80:82 with 17 seconds to go. Vule Avdalovic and Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) meanwhile managed to bring the victory from the free throw line. Yassin Idbihi led the way with 16 points and Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) delivered 13. Vule Avdalovic, Zach Morley and DaShaun Wood all scored 11. Blake Schilb and Brion Rush scored 21 points in the losing effort. Ilian Evtimov tossed in 13, while Shelden Williams (206-F-83, college: Duke) had 8.

Group C
EA7 Armani - Cedevita 75-60
Emporio Armani clinched the third Euroleague win this season. They prevailed against Cedevita in Milan. Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81) notched 15 points and 7 rebounds for the Italian team. Emporio Armani eked out a 20:18 lead after ten minutes of action. Cedevita surged ahead in the second term. They snatched a 37:36 halftime lead. But the third term turned disastrous for the visitors. Emporio Armani changed the complexion of the game. The hosts went on a massive 25:9 run to pile up a 15-point lead before the final period. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the final frame as Emporio Armani kept Cedevita at safe distance. Ioannis Bourousis and Keith Langford (193-SG-83, college: Kansas) delivered 11 points each for the winners. Miro Bilan (215-C-89) answered with 15 points for Cedevita. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) and Predrag Suput had 9 points each in the losing case.

Zalgiris - Caja Laboral 82-45
Zalgiris recorded the sixth win in Euroleague Group C. They knocked down Caja Laboral to improve at 6-1 record on top of the ladder. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) scored 19 points to pace the hosts. Zalgiris led from start to finish. The Lithuanian powerhouse jumped to a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. The hosts stretched the lead in the second term. Zalgiris piled up a 43:24 halftime advantage. Caja Laboral scored just 9 points in the third term to trail by as many as 26 points heading into the final stanza. Zalgiris did not slow down in the fourth quarter and coasted to the victory. Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) and Mindaugas Kuzminskas netted 13 points each for the winners. Fabien Causeur and Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) answered with 10 points each for Caja Laboral.

Olympiacos - Anadolu Efes 75-53
Olympiacos clinched the fifth win in Euroleague Group C. They brushed by Anadolu Efes in Piraeus. Kostas Papanikolaou (206-F-90) came up with 17 points and 6 boards to lead the effort. Olympiacos fired 23 points in the first term to gain a 3-point lead. The Hellenes limited their opponents to just 6 points in the second quarter. The hosts extended the margin to 9 points at the interval 35:26. Olympiacos used the third term to aggravate the damage. The home team stayed aggressive at both end of the floor and piled up a 17-point lead with ten minutes remaining. Anadolu Efes scored just 11 points in the fourth stanza and suffered the third loss at the tournament. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) netted 14 points, while Acie Law delivered 10 points in the win. Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-SG-84, college: Virginia Tech) answered with 15 points for Anadolu Efes. Semih Erden provided 8 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Group D
Besiktas - Brose Bask. 83-72
Besiktas clinched the fourth EuroLeague victory this season. They toppled visiting Brose Baskets at home court to take 4-3 record in Group D. Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: California) dropped 20 points and pulled down 7 rebounds to pace the hosts. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. Besiktas and Brose Baskets entered the second term tied at 18. Bamberg surged ahead in the second frame. The German side accumulated a 42:36 halftime lead. But Besiktas turned the tables in the third quarter. They went on a 26:12 rally to ensure an 8-point lead at the final break. Besiktas maintained the advantage throughout the final stanza. They did not allow Brose Baskets within striking distance and clinched the victory at the end. Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor) netted 17 points, while Damir Markota added 13 points in the win. Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 21 points for Brose Baskets. Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) delivered 14 points in defeat.

CSKA - Partizan 78-61
CSKA Moscow open Round 7 with the win over Partizan mt:s Belgrade. The Russian side overcame the Serbian representative 78:61 in the first game of the day. CSKA Moscow grabbed 23:22 lead after the first period and pushed the tempo later in the half. They reached 12-point halftime advantage after 25-14 in the second period. Moreover CSKA won the third and the last quarters. They were stronger with 13-12 in the third quarter and finished the game with 17-13 in the last stanza. Andrey Vorontsevich (207-C-87) brought 78:54 on the board, while Partizan mt:s Belgrade managed to reduce to 17 points closing the game with a 7-0 run. Sonny Weems top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Dionte Christmas notched 13. Andrey Vorontsevich delivered 12, while Aaron Jackson (190-G-86, college: Duquesne) and Viktor Khryapa had 11 each. Vladimir Lucic and Dragan Milosavljevic replied with 12 points each in the losing effort. Drew Gordon scored 11, while Dejan Musl added 9.

FCB Regal - Lietuvos rytas 90-66
FC Barcelona Regal survive Lietuvos Rytas challenge in EuroLeague Group D. The Spanish titan remained the only undefeated team in the campaign and moved up to 7-0 record after 90:66 win. Although FC Barcelona Regal started with 27-18 in the first period, they lost the lead later in the game. Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius erupted with 27-15 in the second frame and took 45:42 at the halftime. Nemanja Nedovic gave the guests 54:51, but it was their last one in the game. Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) scored four points in a row for 63:57 and then Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) closed the frame at 68:60. FC Barcelona Regal added massive 22-6 surge in the last stanza for the final success. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) stepped up with 24 points for the winners and Ante Tomic netted 17. Pete Mickeal delivered 15, while Erazem Lorbek had 11. Leon Radosevic answered with 14 points in the losing effort and Nemanja Nedovic scored 12. Dejan Ivanov added 11 and Predrag Samardziski notched 10.


Panathinaikos succeeded a crucial road win in Cantu! - by Chris Mammides

Panathinaikos is still allive!! Traveling to Cantu without three of his players (Schortsianitis, Skordilis and Panko who were injured) and with the newcomer Marcus Banks (188-G-81, college: UNLV) with just a week in the team, Panathinaikos with an excellent Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) in his top career game (sank 7 three-pointers, including three in the final four minutes) in the Euroleague courts "escaped" from Pala-Desio with a dramatic 69-71 victory and is now with a 4-3 record closer to the Top 16.
The game was a derby from the early begining with Panathinaikos leading the first period with the poor 15-19. With Michael Bramos scoring his first three pointer to give the +4 at the end.
The second period the home team and more precise Alex Tyus (205-C-88, college: Florida) tied the game from inside the paint. On the other end, Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) sank back-to-back triples and the visitors took a 21-25 advantage. After a timeout, Jonathan Tabu (184-SG-85) responded with a triple to make sure the hosts stayed within a single possession. Alex Tyus started to get hot as he twice traded layups with Marcus Banks, then had a fastbreak slam-dunk and finally got a lucky bounce on a hook shot to put Cantu up 32-30. Alex Tyus was also a significant defensive presence in the paint, causing a couple of turnovers and blocking 2 shots, which electrified the crowd. Panathinaikos still managed to get back in front due to a savvy steal from Banks and a layup from Ukic, while in the final seconds a layup from Jeff Brooks sent teams into halftime tied at 34-34.

Michael Bramos opened the third quarter with a triple, but Jonathan Tabu hit back-to-back shots from downtown on the way to 8 consecutive points for a 42-37 advantage. Panathinaikos wasted no time in responding and retaking the lead as Kostas Tsartsaris made a goal-foul and Ukic made a three-pointer. The seesaw battle continued with a long jumper from Brooks and a fastbreak layup from Aradori for 47-45. After Dimitris Diamantidis and Banks were perfect from the charity line, Aradori nailed a triple. Stephan Lasme scored inside and Michael Bramos beat the buzzer with a three-pointer to give Panathinaikos 50-54 lead going into the final 10 minutes.

The fourth and final period found Aradori cuting the Green lead with a floater as Cantu held the visitors scoreless for more than five minutes, including forcing turnovers on Panathinaikos's first four possessions in the quarter. Jonathan Tabu tied the game with a fastbreak layup, Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) sank a triple and Alex Tyus capped a 9-0 Cantu run with a monster dunk. Banks ended the visitors' drought with a put-back-plus-foul and Michael Bramos sank a triple that cut the deficit to 61-60. With less than four minutes remaining, Alex Tyus made a jump-hook and Manuchar Markoishvili scored from downtown to make it a 6-point margin, but Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis answered with back-to-back triples to tie the score at 66-66. Dimitris Diamantidis then found Lasme for an uncontested dunk and a 2-point lead. Alex Tyus made a pair of free throws for anther tie. However, Michael Bramos hit his seventh three-pointer for 68-71, and it turned out to be the decisive basket. In the remaining 50 seconds, Jonathan Tabu split a pair of free throws to cut the deficit to 2, and after Cantu successfully defended the next Panathinaikos possession, Jonathan Tabu missed a potential game-tying jumper as time expired

Top scorers:
Cantu: Jonathan Tabu 22 with 8 assists, Alex Tyus 17, Maarten Leunen 14
Panathinaikos: Michael Bramos 21 points and 9 rebounds, Dimitris Diamantidis 15 with 4 rebounds, 7 assists and 1 steal, Marcus Banks 9 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals

Interesting details of the game:

Panathinaikos without a real center dashed down 39 rebounds against just 22 for Cantu while and at the same time the Greens forced to 22 turnovers against only 9 of Cantu players


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

Standings - Korisliiga

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

Regular Season: Round 13

Nov. 23: Salon Vilpas - LrNMKY 83-71
Nov. 23: KTP - Kouvot 81-68
Nov. 21: Kouvot - Lapua 106-67
Nov. 24: Pyrinto - Lapua
Nov. 24: FoKoPo - Korihait
Nov. 24: Kataja - Nilan Bisons
Nov. 24: Kauhajoki - Namika Lahti


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game
 Martin ZENO
  Nilan Bisons
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Zeno, Nilan Bisons23.5 
 2. Gibson, LrNM.22.5 
 3. Conley, LrNM.21.3 
 4. Clavell, Kouvot18.8 
 5. Holloway, Namika L.18.4 
 6. Ulmer, Pyrinto17.5 
 7. Haanpaa, Lapua17.0 
 8. Hester, Kouvot16.8 
 9. Smith, Kataja16.5 
 10. Flowers, Kataja16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ryan MCDADE
  Nilan B.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. McDade, Nilan B.10.5 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto8.7 
 3. Tolbert, Lapua8.6 
 4. Logins, LrNM.8.5 
 5. Thorpe, FoKoPo8.4 
 6. Conley, LrNM.8.1 
 7. Ford, Kauhajoki7.9 
 8. Giles, KTP7.9 
 9. Dyer, Korihait7.8 
 10. Haanpaa, Lapua7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Damon WILLIAMS
  Pyrinto
  (201-F-73)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Williams, Pyrinto8.5 
 2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons5.2 
 3. Smith, Kataja5.1 
 4. Burgess, FoKoPo5.0 
 5. Holmes, Lapua4.3 
 6. Gibson, LrNM.4.0 
 7. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.9 
 8. Ikavalko, FoKoPo3.5 
 9. Sarcevic, KTP3.5 
 10. Zeno, Nilan Bisons3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jonte FLOWERS
  Kataja
  (196-F/G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Flowers, Kataja2.4 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto2.4 
 3. Smith, Kataja2.3 
 4. Gibson, LrNM.2.3 
 5. Conley, LrNM.2.3 
 6. Holloway, Namika L.1.9 
 7. Ford, Kauhajoki1.9 
 8. Williams, KTP1.8 
 9. Barrett, KTP1.7 
 10. Vuori, Kauhajoki1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Sefton BARRETT
  KTP
  (196-SF-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Barrett, KTP1.8 
 2. Ford, Kauhajoki1.4 
 3. Commons, Lapua1.4 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.2 
 5. Jones, LrNM.1.0 
 6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons1.0 
 7. McDade, Nilan B.0.8 
 8. Dyer, Korihait0.8 
 9. Nikkila, Pyrinto0.8 
 10. Taft, Korihait0.7 


Standings - Division I

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

Regular Season: Round 10

A

Nov. 24: Oulun NMKY - BC Nokia
Nov. 25: Pyrinto II - ToPo
Nov. 25: Huima - Porvoon Tarmo
Nov. 25: Ura Basket - Tapiolan Honka
Nov. 30: Porvoon Tarmo - Ura Basket
Nov. 30: ToPo - Oulun NMKY

B

Nov. 23: JyWe - BC Jyvaskyla 67-79
Nov. 25: BC Jyvaskyla - Jarvenpaa
Nov. 25: Espoo Basket - JyWe
Nov. 25: KaU Koris - TuNMKY
Nov. 27: Kerava ET - HBA-Marsky


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Nolan RICHARDSON
  Ura B.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 28.9
 1. Richardson, Ura B.28.9 
 2. Moultrie, BC Nokia27.0 
 3. Pederson, SayRi23.3 
 4. Clark, Tapiolan Ho.21.5 
 5. Salminen, TuNM.21.1 
 6. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.20.7 
 7. Young, Porvoon20.6 
 8. Brennan, Tapiolan.20.5 
 9. Tate, Porvoon20.3 
 10. Harjula, Pyrinto20.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brian MOULTRIE
  BC Nokia
  (198-C/F-87)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Moultrie, BC Nokia15.6 
 2. Corpening, BC Jyva.14.2 
 3. Towa, Kerava ET13.3 
 4. Syrjala, KaU Koris12.9 
 5. Salminen, TuNM.12.2 
 6. Keskitalo, JyWe12.2 
 7. Stephens, Huima11.5 
 8. Coleman, ToPo10.8 
 9. Pederson, SayRi10.8 
 10. Suotamo, Espoo B.10.6 
Assists Per Game
 Lauri JARVINEN
  KaU Koris
  (185-C-85)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Jarvinen, KaU Koris5.5 
 2. Juvonen, Kerava ET4.8 
 3. Kyllonen, Porvoon4.8 
 4. Herrala, HBA-M.4.7 
 5. Ginty, ToPo4.6 
 6. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.4.5 
 7. Riihela, BC Nokia4.3 
 8. Harjula, Pyrinto II3.9 
 9. Russell, Oulun N.3.7 
 10. Viita, Jarvenpaa3.6 
Steals Per Game
 La Trice LITTLE
  Kerava ET
  (187-G-79)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Little, Kerava ET3.3 
 2. Corpening, BC Jyva.2.8 
 3. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.2.5 
 4. Michelsen, HBA-M.2.4 
 5. Viita, Jarvenpaa2.4 
 6. Richardson, Ura B.2.3 
 7. Herrala, HBA-M.2.2 
 8. Russell, Oulun N.2.0 
 9. Syrjala, KaU Koris2.0 
 10. Ginty, ToPo1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Harri KESKITALO
  JyWe
  (210-C-90)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Keskitalo, JyWe2.7 
 2. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.2.6 
 3. Woods, BC Nokia2.0 
 4. Corpening, BC Jyva.1.8 
 5. Young, Porvoon1.8 
 6. Mua, Kerava ET1.6 
 7. Suotamo, Espoo B.1.3 
 8. Salminen, TuNM.1.2 
 9. Moultrie, BC Nokia1.1 
 10. Towa, Kerava ET1.1 



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

Standings - ProB

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

Regular Season: Round 11

Nov. 23: St Quentin - Pau-Lacq-Orthez 98-101 OT
Nov. 23: Evreux - Bordeaux 89-78
Nov. 23: Chalons-Reims - Charleville 86-63
Nov. 23: Nantes - Lille 85-77
Nov. 23: Fos Ouest - Maurienne 83-91
Nov. 23: Denain - Le Portel 74-90
Nov. 23: Antibes - Hyeres-Toulon 104-54
Nov. 24: Boulogne - Rouen
Nov. 24: St Vallier - Bourg


Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game
 Wilbert BROWN
  Maurienne
  (200-PF-84)
  Avg: 22.5
 1. Brown, Maurienne22.5 
 2. Flowers, Denain21.5 
 3. Siggers, Lille20.4 
 4. McKines, Rouen20.2 
 5. Booker, St Vallier19.6 
 6. Blue, Antibes19.5 
 7. Boddicker, Pau-La.19.1 
 8. Monds, Bourg19.0 
 9. Wood, Evreux18.6 
 10. Bassett, Rouen17.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Wendell MCKINES
  Rouen
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 11
 1. McKines, Rouen11.0 
 2. Wood, Evreux10.3 
 3. Lesieu, St Quentin10.2 
 4. Bing, Maurienne10.1 
 5. Jaiteh, Boulogne9.9 
 6. Jackson, Pau-La.9.9 
 7. Kitts, Denain9.0 
 8. Monds, Bourg9.0 
 9. Rouse, St Vallier8.1 
 10. Brown, Maurienne8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Errick CRAVEN
  St Vallier
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Craven, St Vallier7.9 
 2. McIntosh, Hyeres-.5.9 
 3. Denave, Pau-Lacq.5.8 
 4. Taylor, Le Portel5.6 
 5. Huffman, Antibes5.5 
 6. Dumas, Bourg5.4 
 7. Bassett, Rouen5.3 
 8. Hannah, Evreux5.0 
 9. Darnauzan, Mauri.4.7 
 10. Driss, Pau-Lacq.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 John FLOWERS
  Denain
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Flowers, Denain2.8 
 2. Craven, St Vallier2.8 
 3. Calvez, Charleville2.6 
 4. Wilson, Le Portel2.0 
 5. Jackson, Pau-La.1.9 
 6. Hannah, Evreux1.9 
 7. Sonko, Bourg1.9 
 8. Taylor, Le Portel1.8 
 9. Smith, Lille1.8 
 10. Siggers, Lille1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Moussa BADIANE
  Antibes
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Badiane, Antibes2.5 
 2. Gay, Le Portel1.6 
 3. Chism, Maurienne1.4 
 4. Coleman, Bordeaux1.2 
 5. Taccoen, Lille1.1 
 6. Williams, St Quent.1.0 
 7. Henry, Nantes1.0 
 8. Johnson, Chalons-.1.0 
 9. Monds, Bourg0.9 
 10. Cummard, Fos Oue.0.8 


Hyeres-Toulon signs Da'Quan Cook - by Aleksa Nikolic

Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket signed 25-year old American forward Da'Quan Cook (205-F-87, college: St.Bonaventure).Last season, he played at St.Bonaventure (NCAA). In 31 games last year he had 7.6ppg and 4.6rpg.
This season, he played one match for Yambol (Bulgaria-NBL) and had 10 points and 4 rebounds for 27 minutes. Also, he was on trial in Limoges (Pro A), but he didn't pass.
He will make debut tonight against Antibes.


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Jeremiah Massey selected the top FYR Macedonian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Jeremiah Massey
Jeremiah Massey
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St., currently plays in EuroChallenge). He was the major contributor in a Krasnie Krilya's victory against the third-ranked Joensuun Kataja (1-2) 96-86 in the EuroChallenge in Tuesday night's game. Massey scored 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 28 minutes on the court. Krasnie Krilya Samara (3-0) is placed first in group B. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Massey averages: 10.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.5apg, 3FGP: 28.6% and FT: 66.7% in the two games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Massey played for the FYR Macedonian senior national team three years ago. Strangely he has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Bo McCalebb
Bo McCalebb
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Bo McCalebb (178-85, college: New Orleans, currently plays in Euroleague). McCalebb led his Turkish team Fenerbahce Ulker to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Un.Olimpija (2-5) 85-68 in the Euroleague last Thursday. He recorded 13 points and added 4 assists. Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (4-3) is placed third in group A. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. McCalebb has relatively good stats this season: 12.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 65.9%(29-44), 3FGP: 22.2% and FT: 84.6%. He is a naturalized American. McCalebb is in the roster of the FYR Macedonian senior national team. Apparently he has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Pero Antic
Pero Antic
   #3. The FYR Macedonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Pero Antic (210-82, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in Euroleague). Antic contributed to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Caja Laboral (1-5) 89-72 in the Euroleague on Friday night. He scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 20 minutes. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (5-2) is placed second in group C. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. So now every game will be important. This year Antic's overall stats are: 5.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 38.9%, 3FGP: 19.0% and FT: 82.4% in the seven games. He has a dual citizenship: FYR Macedonian and Bulgarian. Antic is also a member of the FYR Macedonian senior national team.

Vlado Ilievski
Vlado Ilievski
   #4. Point guard Vlado Ilievski (190-80, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in Euroleague) led his Croatian team Cedevita to a double overtime (!!!) victory against the leader Zalgiris (5-1) 108-106 in the Euroleague in Thursday night's game. He scored 16 points. KK Cedevita Zagreb (2-5) is placed fifth in group C. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. It's Ilievski's first season with the team. Ilievski's total stats this year are: 5.9ppg and 1.3apg. He is another player who holds two passports: FYR Macedonian and Slovenian. Ilievski is also FYR Macedonian national team player.

Predrag Samardziski
Predrag Samardziski
   #5. International center Predrag Samardziski (215-86, another player represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in Euroleague), who plays in Lithuania could not help Lietuvos rytas (1-6) in their last game. Despite his good performance the sixth-placed Lietuvos rytas was crushed 90-66 on the road by the leading Regal FC Barcelona in the group D of Euroleague. Samardziski recorded 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 23 minutes. It was Lietuvos rytas' fourth consecutive loss in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. This year Samardziski's total stats are: 6.3ppg, 3.6rpg and 1.1bpg in the seven games. He plays currently for the FYR Macedonian national team.

Vojdan Stojanovski
Vojdan Stojanovski
   #6. Guard Vojdan Stojanovski (194-87, currently plays in Eurocup) led his Ukrainian team BC Donetsk to an overtime victory against the closely-ranked Trefl Sopot (0-3) 92-87 in the Eurocup on Wednesday night. Stojanovski scored 18 points, had 4 boards, passed 3 assists and added 3 steals. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Donetsk (1-2) is placed third in the Eurocup. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Regular Season. Stojanovski is currently fifth on the list of most steals. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg and 2.3spg. Stojanovski is an international player who is currently on the senior FYR Macedonian National Team roster.

Marques Green
Marques Green
   #7. Former international point guard Marques Green (167-82, college: St.Bonaventure, currently plays in Euroleague) is a teammate of previously mentioned Vlado Ilievski and both played together in the last Euroleague game. Green contributed to a double overtime (!!!) Cedevita's victory against the leader Zalgiris (5-1) 108-106. He scored 8 points and added 3 passes in 26 minutes. Green has averaged so far 6.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 4.1apg and 1.6spg in the seven games. He is a naturalized American. Green used to play for the FYR Macedonian national team two years ago. Interesting that he has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Bojan Krstevski
Bojan Krstevski
   #8. Power forward Bojan Krstevski (205-89, currently plays in Greece) was not able to help the league outsider Kavala (0-6) in their game against Olympiacos (6-0) in the Greek A1. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. The bottom-ranked Kavala was crushed 113-62 in Athens by the leading Olympiacos. So far Kavala lost all six games in the Regular Season. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Krstevski has averaged so far 6.2ppg and 4.8rpg. He used to play for the FYR Macedonian U20 national team back in 2009.

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

   #1. Cedi Osman (195-SG-95, currently plays in Turkey) led Pertevniyal to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Final Genclik (3-5) 92-73 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) last Wednesday. Osman scored 16 points. Pertevniyal Istanbul (4-4) is placed 11th in the TB2L. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. This year Osman has relatively solid stats: 14.4ppg and 2.8rpg. He has a dual citizenship: FYR Macedonian and Turkish. Despite Osman's FYR Macedonian passport, he currently plays for the Turkish U18 national team and is not eligible to play for the FYR Macedonian team.

   #2. Tomcho Sokolov (205-F/C-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, currently plays in Turkey), who plays in the Turkish TB2L (second division) could not help Pi Koleji (3-5) to beat Maliye Milli (6-2). Sokolov recorded 8 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 26 minutes. Pi Koleji was edged 88-85 in a derby game by the much higher-ranked (#4) Maliye Milli. It was Pi Koleji's third consecutive loss in a row. But the season just started, so everything may happen. Sokolov has averaged so far 8.6ppg and 6.5rpg in the eight games he played so far.

   #3. Jovan Zdravevski (197-F-80, currently plays in Iceland) was not able to help the league outsider one of league's weakest teams Stjarnan (5-2) in their game against Grindavik (5-2) in the Icelandic Dominos League. Zdravevski cannot count Thursday's game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 3 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 15 minutes. Stjarnan lost 86-90 on the road to the second-ranked Grindavik. It was Stjarnan's first loss after three consecutive victories. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. Zdravevski is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Stjarnan's roster. Zdravevski has averaged so far 8.8ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.0apg in the six games. He is another player who holds two passports: FYR Macedonian and Icelandic.


*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   

Highest League Standing

Superleague Standings
 1. MIA Academy 5-0 
 2. Armia 4-0 
 3. Olimpi 4-0 
 4. Kutaisi 4-1 
 5. Rustavi 4-1 
 6. Dinamo Tbilisi 2-2 
 7. TSU Tbilisi 2-4 
 8. Batumi 1-5 
 9. Samedicino 0-4 
 10. Sokhumi 0-4 
 11. STU Tbilisi 0-5 

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 23: Batumi - TSU Tbilisi 61-74
Nov. 24: Armia - MIA Academy
Nov. 24: Olimpi - Kutaisi
Nov. 24: Samedicino - Dinamo Tbilisi


Geogian Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Irakli CHLAIDZE
  Sokhumi
  (199-F-89)
  Avg: 24
 1. Chlaidze, Sokhumi24.0 
 2. Archibeque, MIA A.22.5 
 3. Karim, Dinamo Tbil.20.8 
 4. Matiashvili, Kutai.17.4 
 5. Fatsatsia, Olimpi17.3 
 6. Bowie, Rustavi16.8 
 7. Bakradze, TSU T.16.3 
 8. Nelson, Rustavi15.6 
 9. Milosevic, Olimpi14.5 
 10. Oluic, Dinamo Tbi.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stevan MILOSEVIC
  Olimpi
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Milosevic, Olimpi12.8 
 2. Archibeque, MIA A.11.5 
 3. Kadaria, Sokhumi10.8 
 4. Matiashvili, Kutai.10.6 
 5. Oluic, Dinamo Tbil.10.0 
 6. Keshelava, Batumi9.2 
 7. Aselaini, TSU T.9.2 
 8. Nelson, Rustavi8.0 
 9. Kjellbom, Armia7.5 
 10. Prewitt, MIA A.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Deonta VAUGHN
  MIA A.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Vaughn, MIA A.9.3 
 2. Sokk, Olimpi6.0 
 3. Pashayev, Kutaisi5.2 
 4. Karim, Dinamo Tbil.4.5 
 5. Didia, Kutaisi4.4 
 6. Gaprindashvi., Sam.4.3 
 7. Mikeladze, Olimpi4.3 
 8. Bowie, Rustavi4.2 
 9. Baakashvili, Sokhu.4.0 
 10. Chkareuli, TSU T.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Deonta VAUGHN
  MIA A.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Vaughn, MIA A.3.5 
 2. Bowie, Rustavi3.0 
 3. Dvalishvili, Olimpi2.8 
 4. Dzidziguri, STU T.2.5 
 5. Ramishvili, Batumi2.2 
 6. Bakradze, TSU T.2.0 
 7. Chochua, Rustavi2.0 
 8. Barbakadze, Kutaisi1.8 
 9. Machaladze, STU T.1.8 
 10. Tukvadze, Samed.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Milan OLUIC
  Dinamo Tbilisi
  (210-C-84)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Oluic, Dinamo Tbil.3.8 
 2. Archibeque, MIA A.1.3 
 3. Matiashvili, Kutai.1.2 
 4. Kobidze, TSU T.1.2 
 5. Kjellbom, Armia1.0 
 6. Tukvadze, Samed.1.0 
 7. Aselaini, TSU T.1.0 
 8. Kvelashvili, Batumi1.0 
 9. Milosevic, Olimpi1.0 
 10. Nazmiev, Sokhumi0.8 



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


EuroLeague: Besiktas hold off Brose Baskets in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas - Brose Baskets 83:72

Besiktas clinched the fourth EuroLeague victory this season. They toppled visiting Brose Baskets at home court to take 4-3 record in Group D. Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: California) dropped 20 points and pulled down 7 rebounds to pace the hosts.
The teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. Besiktas and Brose Baskets entered the second term tied at 18. Bamberg surged ahead in the second frame. The German side accumulated a 42:36 halftime lead. But Besiktas turned the tables in the third quarter. They went on a 26:12 rally to ensure an 8-point lead at the final break. Besiktas maintained the advantage throughout the final stanza. They did not allow Brose Baskets within striking distance and clinched the victory at the end. Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor) netted 17 points, while Damir Markota (209-F-85) added 13 points in the win. Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 21 points for Brose Baskets. Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) delivered 14 points in defeat.

Besiktas: Patrick Christopher 20, Curtis Jerrells 17, Damir Markota 13
Brose Baskets: Anton Gavel 21, Casey Jacobsen 14


Baxter left LTi 46ers - by Eurobasket News

32-year old American guard Jimmy Baxter (198-96kg-80, college: S.Florida, agency: Three Eye Sports) left LTi Giessen 46ers (BBL). In 9 games he played this season he was ninth best scorer with 14.6ppg and averaged 3.0rpg and 2.1apg. 
Baxters team won Slovenian Supercup.
He was selected to Greek League All-Star Game in 2011.
Baxter is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Belgium, Dominican Rep., France (JDA Dijon, Sluc Nancy and JL Bourg), Iran (Petrochimi), Israel, Italy, Latvia, Portugal, Turkey, Greece (Ilysiakos and Ikaros), Slovenia (Krka) and Dominican Republic (San Lazaro and Indios de San Francisco).
Baxter attended University of South Florida until 2004 and it is his ninth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Lukasz Muszynski leaves Itzehoe, returns to Poland - by Moritz Korff

1. Regionalliga North team SC Itzehoe Eagles has waived Lukasz Muszynski (201-F-81). The Polish forward had been a good fit off the court, Coach Paul Larysz stressed, but could not fulfil the expectations on the court. Muszynski appeared in seven RLN games for the Eagles, averaging 6.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, one steal and close to one blocked shot per contest.
With four wins and three losses the Itzehoe team is currently sixth in the 1. Regionalliga North. The Eagles will take on the Bodfeld Baskets Oberharz at home on Saturday.


Can Allan Ray Fill The Shoes Of Isaiah Swann This Season With ratiopharm Ulm? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Since the arrival of ratiopharm Ulm in the Beko BBL in 2006, the club has always displayed interesting and somewhat potent rosters that were formed thanks to ex head coach Mike Taylor who is coaching Maine in the D-league and often had the appropriate feeling and trusted magic wan that was able to haul in capable players according to the minimum budget that the club possessed. In the Mike Taylor era, he was able to find young lesser known players just starting their basketball career like Dru Joyce, Romeo Travis, Christian Burns, Lee Humphrey, Per Guenther or John Bryant who all were able to produce in the Beko BBL. The influx of strong players coming to Ulm continued after the departure of Mike Taylor as head coach Thorsten Leibenath came on board. Last season, the club had a special player with Isaiah Swann that had special offensive qualities who was a big factor in the success of ratiopharm Ulm. Granted head coach Thorsten Leibenath and the rest of the team also contributed to the team taking the ride to the final, but how often was Swann able to bring that extra spark and needed production in key situations of games helping the team propel the team to needed victories. At least two to three wins were on the account of Swanns scoring rampage and scoring in bunches that he displayed frequently. Swann left ratiopharm Ulm after last season with money signs dancing in his head as he is making three times as much in Turkey this season. This season, the team got a player in Allan Ray (188-G-84, college: Villanova) who arrived to replace Swann and show that he can be that ray of light in needed situations this season. Ray is a 28 year old 188cm guard form the Bronx, New York that is a an explosive scoring guard, tremendous leaper, finds the open man, beats foes off the dribble or with a jumper, has range beyond the 3-point arc and is a conscientious defender. Ray played a season for the Boston Celtics playing 47 games: 6.2ppg, 1.5rpg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 76.4%. In the last years, he has concentrated on his basketball in Europe and has played for top teams in Italy and France and was always dangerous with his scoring abilities. It will be interesting to see this season, how important he will be in crucial situations and how much the club will rely on his scoring qualities in key situations to win ball games. He is still seeking his full scoring touch, but he did explode against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven this season with 31 points. Ray teammate Dane Watts already had a positive feeling about the ex NBA player before the season commenced. I remember him playing at Villanova when I was in school. He was a great scorer and player for them. Im sure that he will fit in with our team and bring a lot of high level experience, added Dane Watts. Head coach Thorsten Leibenath can be thrilled if Ray doesnt only help the team win with his offense. I think my defense is a hidden strength in my game.. Coach gives me a lot of confidence. I usually have to defend the others teams best player. I bring intensity and much pressure and just try to wreck the other teams offense, warned Allan Ray.

In 2010-2011, ratiopharm Ulm finished a less than satisfying season at 14th place with a record of 12-22. They started off the season with a four game losing streak and right away were reeling to get out of the Beko BBL cellar. The team simply wasnt consistent and really missed having a comfortable 6-7 game winning streak. It also didnt help matters that they closed out the season losing 10 of their last 12 games. It was no secret that the team was capable of putting up many points putting up 80 or more points 19 times. Many of their box scores read like NBA scores, but Ulm often was simply outshot. They also had problems closing out games losing six times by five or less points. The club was simply unable to get their offense and defense on the same page last season. Differences to last years team are noticeable. I think they are solid in more positions this season and dont have any let ups when someone comes in the game. They are a deeper team and have more options. As far as style goes I just think they are more patient and get the most out of each possession. They are a better defensive team and they have a lot more structure as well, added John Bynum last season.

Ratiopharm Ulm moved out of the beloved tiny Kuhberg halle which was always like hell for opponents, because at times it felt like the fans were sitting in the laps of the players or were a secret sixth man on the court, simply because the fans are so close to the floor. On December 10th 2011 the team moved into the new 6,200 arena which seats double as much as the Kuhberg arena. As a result, the team budget was doubled to three million euros. With the departure of Taylor came a known face in the beko BBL with Thorsten Leibenath. The German had a lot to prove, because this will be his third team he is running in the Beko BBL and will be best remembered for missing the playoffs two consecutive times with The Artland Dragons that had two deep talented rosters and playoffs written all over, but instead missing the playoffs on the last day each time and sending Dragon fans to the cafes early to talk over their basketball misery over coffee. Leibenath started his head coaching career in reaching the British BBL final in 2007 after being assistant coach in Giessen for many years. He now started a new coaching gig in Ulm and has showed that he has matured as a coach keeping ratiopharm Ulm very consistent and behind the Brose Baskets Bamberg at times last season with Alba Berlin wondering if they are seated in a very unentertaining movie without salted popcorn. Ratiopharm Ulm did a massive summer cleaning keeping only Americans John Bryant, Rocky Trice and Tommy Mason Griffin and Germans Per Guether and Sebastian Betz. Guys like Robin Benzing, Coleman Collins, Lee Humphrey, Sean Sonderleiter and Travis Walton all departed.

The team brought in a healthy core of Americans with double double candidate Dane Watts, scorer Isiah Swann, Beko BBL veteran Steven Esterkamp that got another chance after sitting out a year and playing in the PRO A with Essen last season and Skyliner Jon Leuer teammate at Wisconsin Keaton Nankivil. On paper the club looked like a playoff team, but ratiopharm Ulm manager Thomas Stoll was careful not to get too excited at the start last season. The league is stronger this year. Of course the fans can dream of the playoffs, but we just want to finish better than 14th place last season, stressed Thomas Stoll. We want to win more games than we lose. Maybe we can be near the playoffs, added ratiopharm Ulm head coach Thorsten Leibenath at the start of the season. The Ulm fans were dreaming of the playoffs after the strong 3-1 start. The club started the season with an impressive win in Bayreuth possibly the loudest arena in the league, then came home and beat playoff candidate Artland Dragons, then lost by a slim margin of 64-59 showing that they already have understood how to play strong defense early in the season against the leagues best Bamberg and then beat the always tough defensive minded TBB Trier on the road getting a monster game from John Bryant with 27 points, 16 rebounds and five assists. Instead of suffering a tail spin the team was strong all season having winning streaks of seven, six and five games. They are a solid team with some great players at each position. They will be a team in my opinion that will be in the playoffs if they continue to get better and work together as a team. I wouldnt call them a sleeper anymore but I am sure no one expected a lot from them this season. I do think they can make a push for the playoffs and I think they have great guard play and solid back ups at each position. They have guys who can shoot the ball and a great inside game with Bryant in the middle. As far as weaknesses the only thing I see would be what would happen if Bryant or Watts both got into foul trouble at the same time, warned John Bynum last season. The secret to the success has been a combination of coach Leibentah who found the right mix to follow his system and a group of non selfish players that play for each other and always want to win. Before the season, Leibenath was humble suggesting he wanted to win more games than he lost. However at the end of the season he proved all doubters wrong as the team finished in second place with a record of 27-7.They had an impressive playoff run routing the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig 3-0 scoring an average of 94 games in the three game series. Next they swept the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg 3-0 stopping their impressive season, but then ran out of gas against the Brose Baskets Bamberg finding out what it is like being swept 3-0. They had no real chance in the first two games, but lost a bitter 97-95 game three as Bamberg won their fifth league championship.

After such an impressive season, the question is can one top last season. The only step up is winning the league championship this season, but that is never easy considering the league gets more competitive each season. One can take the famous Bill Shankly phrase never change a winning team and apply it perfectly to ratiopharm Ulm as they did their best keeping important components like 2012 Beko BBL MVP John Bryant who can serve up a double double as well as Jared Jordan can an ally-op pass. The team also kept hard working Dane Watts who gives Bryant a lot of support on the boards, allrounder Steven Esterkamp, best German Per Guenther who has progressed as a player each season since 2008, role player Keaton Nankivil who can hurt you with his annoying three point shooting and oldest active Ulmer there since 2007 Sebastian Betz. The team lost scoring ace Isaiah Swann and Rocky Trice, but got more than sufficient compensation with ex NBA player Allan Ray, American guard Lance Jeter coming for the injured Tommy Mason-Griffin, German national player Philipp Schwethelm on loan from FC Bayern Munich who is starting to shine under Leibenath and bug German talent Daniel Theis who has already been inserted into the starting rotation despite little Beko BBL experience. The biggest strength of ratiopharm Ulm this season is the huge euphoric atmosphere that the team got last season that so far this season has held on as the team is near the top of the Beko BBL standings. Another strength is the deep roster and that many players were kept keeping some team chemistry form last season and the brand of players that they have where each plays for each other and where egos arent the most important thing despite stars like Brayant, Guenther and Ray. Important is also that the roster of players have many different qualities that help make this one of the more balanced teams in the Beko BBl with each player able of doing much on the court. Ratiopharm Ulm can only beat themselves this season. The question will be can they hold up against the pressure of continuing to win over a whole season. The double game function of Eurocup and injuries could take a toll on the team in the second half of the season and an injury to John Bryant could really hurt the club since his game fuels ratiopharm Ulm. The defense also could be a factor as the team is still finding a defensive identity as they have given up an average of 88 points in the first nine games. If they were only an average scoring team, then they would be near the cellar of the Beko BBL standings. But one thing is clear and Thorsten Leibenath can have more room to joke this season after the strong season last season. I dont think anyone will predict us as a team being in the cellar this season, said Thorsten Leibenath.Ulm has made another step forward. They found the right players once again this season. They can hit three pointers each second. Ulm is showing stability and when all players think the same then they are able to improve. They deserve to be at the top of the league now, stressed Fraport Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin.

Since ratiopharm Ulm entered the Beko BBL in 2006, the Frankfurt Skyliners have a 7-6 record against them. They won in overtime 87-83 in 2007 with Murat Didin. The Eric Chadfield buzzer beater will for some reason always be stuck in the minds of people, which had an eerie similarity to the buzzer beater of Justin Gray against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg this season. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have a positive 2-1 record in the Ballsporthalle. In 2009-2010, Frankfurt lost 74-69, but got a strong game form ex Skyliner Lorenzo Gordon who scored 23 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. In the first meeting last season, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners dominated the game and put on a scoring display led by 23 points by Seth Doliboa as the club prevailed 95-82.Frankfurt shot an astronomical 57% from the field and easily won the rebounding fight 34-25. Ratiopharm Ulm did a great job only having seven turnovers. In the return game in Frankfurt last season, Ratiopharm Ulm lost 84-77 as Skyliner American Seth Doliboa had another monster game pouring home 18 points and 15 rebounds. Last season, Frankfurt lost a 87-82 nail bitter in the Kuhberg arena, but returned home to win 74-67 as Dashaun Wood poured in 17 points and 12 assists. In the first meeting of last season, the Fraport Skyliners lost a winnable game 81-75 in the old Kuhberg Halle where Dane Watts made the two big buckets at the end showing NBA player Jon Leuer that guys from Missouri can play basketball. Ratiopharm Ulm had five guys in double figures, shot better and rebounded better. Frankfurt was led by Justin Gray with 14 points. The Fraport Skyliners got revenge in the return game in Frankfurt winning 77-64 in their strong second half of the season. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Michael Thompson with 16 points while Jacob Burtschi had 15 points. The Fraport Skyliners enter the game coming off a unsatisfying 91-65 loss in Berlin. The team shot allright over 40%, but were killed under the boards and had a poor 19 turnovers. Dion Dowell continued to be a spark plug as he had 18 points, but overall there was too little team production, but the team was weakened because American Zach Peacock was injured. Another bright spot was the spirited play by young German Konstantin Klein who had 10 points and showed his increasing self confidence on the floor. Ratipharm Ulm are playing superb basketball having a 7-1 record in the last eight games with a more than convincing 96-66 win at home against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Ratiopharm Ulm is defending better in the last five games giving up an average of 76 points up while in the first five games, they gave up an average of 84 points. The Fraport Skyliners will have to get back to defending well the way they did in Bamberg and against Braunschweig, because ratiopharm Ulm is a scoring machine averaging 89 points per game. It is not about quality that we focus on, but on individual readiness for the game. We have to focus more on ourselves than on Ulm. If we play 100% and lose than I can be satisfied, but not when we give 100%. It is not important who you play, but how you play, warned Muli Katzurin.

ratiopharm Ulm is led by John Bryant who is a 25 year old 208cm center that is playing his third season in Ulm and was born in Berkeley, California and grew up in San Pablo. He played at Santa Clara university coming in in 2005 as well known players Doron Perkins and Kyle Bailey had just graduated. He played 124 NCAA games getting WCC Player of the Year in 2009. In his last three years, he was able to average double figures in points. In his senior year, he tore up the NCAA playing 33 games: 18.1ppg, 14.2rpg, 1.1apg, 2.5bpg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 78.7%. In 2009 he was drafted by the Erie BayHawks (D-League,2rd (31) and played 48 games: 13.2ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 49.3%, FT: 77.6%. In the summer 2010, he played NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (Milwaukee Bucks). He has a great feel for the game. This is his first season and who would of thought that he would play so well? He stays with his strength and takes high percentage shots. He has a very high basketball IQ with scoring and rebounding. I think that he could compete at any level in the world., stressed ex teammate Travis Walton. In 2010-2011 for Ulm he played 34 games: 14.6ppg, Reb-1 (10.9rpg), 1.1apg, Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP: 60.4%, FT: 74.2%. Last season, he played 42 games: 14.1ppg, Reb-1 (9.4rpg), 1.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 71.7%. . Per Guenther is a 24 year old 185cm point guard that was born in Giessen and grew up in Hagen and is playing his fifth season with ratiopharm Ulm. He has very good speed and can dribble with both his hands he is very good in shooting from the arc and he has very good organizational skills, he watches the court with one glance and can assist his team-mates on a blind method pretending that he will shoot. He has an inborn charisma of a leader from a young age so he leads his team without having any problem. He played for BBV Hagen from 2003-2006 and with Phoenix Hagen from 2006-2008. In his last season in Hagen, he raised eyebrows with his play playing 29 games: 14.5ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 55.8%, 3FGP: 35.7%, FT: 80.1%. He has improved his play each season as in 2009-2010 he played 34 games: 6.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 80.3%. Last season, he became into a real scoring option, but still keeping his playmaking qualities in front of him. He got into three games at the World Championships in Turkey in 2010. In 2010-2011 the German national player played 34 games: 12.4ppg, 1.2rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 84.2%. Last season, he played 41 games: 10.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 83.1%.

Allan Ray played at Villanova from 2002-2006 playing a total of 120 NCAA games. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 18.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 88.9%. He reached the final eight and sweet 16 for Villanova. In 2007, he came to Europe and played in Italy for teams like Lottomatica Virtus Roma, Carife Ferrara and Fabi Shoes Montegranaro until 2011. Last season he played for Krka Novo Mesto (Slovenia-Telemach League, starting five): Adriatic League: 1 game: 10pts, 1reb; EuroCup: 2 games: 18.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.5spg, later that month moved to Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-ProA, starting five): French League: 22 games: 15.2ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 89.6%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 14.3ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.0apg. Keaton Nakivil is a 23 year old 203cm forward from Madison Wisconsin that is playing his second season with ratiopharm Ulm. At Wisconsin he played together with Skyliner Jon Leuer and played a total of 107 NCAA games. In his senior year, he played 34 games: 9.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 45.7%, FT: 83.8%. He reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2008 and 2011. Keaton "The Anvil" Nankivil is going to play a big role in Ulm's success this season. He is a rookie but has been picking up on the European game quickly. He is a team player with high basketball IQ and is automatic from 3pt land. He might drop an anvil on somebody's head in transition this year if they are not careful, stressed teammate Dane Watts. Last season, he played 42 games: 8.1ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.6%. Phillip Schwethelm is a 23 year old 201cm forward that is playing his first season in Ulm being loaned from FC Bayern Munich. He started his basketball career with Cologne in 2004, where he played until 2009. He played Euroleague at the age of 17. He helped Cologne win the Beko BBL title in 2006. He played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven from 2009-2011 and in 2010-2011played 36 games: 10.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 44.9%, FT: 72.9%. He has been a member of the German national team since 2010. Last season he played EuroCup: 6 games: 1.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.3apg; German League: 30 games: 3.2ppg, 2.2rpg. This past summer, he played Qualifications to European Championships 2013 - 7 games: 4.1ppg, 2.7rpg. Steve Esterkamp is a 31 year old 198cm forward from Cincinnati, Ohio that is playing his tenth season in Germany and second in Ulm. He is a great shooter and great competitor, has also a very solid mid-range shot, brings a lot of toughness to his team, is a solid rebounder from the wing position, is a excellent free throw shooter throughout his career, plays always extremely hard and to win, not afraid to take the big shots at the end of the game and always finds ways to get the job done. He is probably best remembered for playing with the Paderborn Baskets from 2004-2009 helping the team reach the beko BBL in 2006 winning 50 games in a row in the second Bundesliga. In Paderborn, he was part of the three Muskeeters with Marius Nolte and Tim Black. Esterkamp played a total of 159 games for Paderborn. In 2009, he helped force Alba Berlin to a 5 game playoff series that they eventually lost. He then went to Bremerhaven in 2009, but got hurt and never played a game there. In 2010-2011, he got his career back on track playing for ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA, starting five): 13 games: 16.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 73.2%. Last season for Ulm he played 42 games: 10.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 76.1%.

Dane Watts who is a 26 year old 203 cm who is playing his fourth season in Germany and who is a modern day forward doing the job inside and outside. He played at Creighton from 2004-2008 playing with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he averaged 11,3ppg, 6,4rpg and 1,0apg. Last season, he quietly had a very solid BBL rookie season in Ludwigsburg averaging in 20 minutes averaging 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7% in 32 games. It wouldnt be a surprise if most followers of German basketball didnt even know that he led the BBL in field goal percentage at 68%. in 2008-2009 as a rookie. He is a team player that still has a lot of potential and could become a scoring option in Tuebingen. Dane has a lot of potential and has all the qualities that a big player of today needs. He can shoot, is athletic, has good ball handling and defends well, joked Jay Thomas. In 2009-2010, Watts played 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. In 2010-2011 for Tuebingen he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May'11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. Last season, he played 38 games: 9.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 24.6%, FT: 58.1%. Lance Jeter is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania that is 32 games: 11.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 72.8% playing his first season in Germany and ratiopharm Ulm. He played at Nebraska (NCAA) and in his senior year played 32 games: 11.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 72.8%. Last season he turned professional and played for Lasaulec Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie): 32 games: Score-2 (16.8ppg), 3.8rpg, Assists-5 (3.4apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 73.0%. 27 year old 200cm forward Sebastian Betz is hardworking wing who provides energy, defensive effort and consistent three point shooting. He started his professional basketball career in 2003 with Bamberg playing there until 2007. In five years, he was only able to play four games never being able to shake the Dirk Bauermann rotation. Mike Taylor scooped him up in 2007 and the German is playing his sixth season in Ulm. His best season so far has been 2008-2009 as he played 36 games: 5.2ppg, 1.5rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 54.9%. Last season the German played 42 games: 3.3ppg, 1.5rpg. The team also picked up German Daniel Theis that is a 20 year old 203cm power forward. He started his basketball career in 2009 for the Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (ProB). He already played a game for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig in the 2010-2011 season as he had a double license. Last season he played : 21 games for the Phantoms: 3.4ppg, 1.9rpg; played also at Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (ProB): 25 games: 18.4ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-1 (2.2bpg), FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 72.4%. The team also has young Germans Marcel Heberlein and Till Joscha- Jonke.




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


Panathinaikos wins Cantu after a dramatic game - by Chris Mammides

Panathinaikos is still allive!! Traveling to Cantu without three of his players (Schortsianitis, Skordilis and Panko who were injured) and with the newcomer Marcus Banks (188-G-81, college: UNLV) with just a week in the team, Panathinaikos with an excellent Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) in his top career game (sank 7 three-pointers, including three in the final four minutes) in the Euroleague courts "escaped" from Pala-Desio with a dramatic 69-71 victory and is now with a 4-3 record closer to the Top 16.
The game was a derby from the early begining with Panathinaikos leading the first period with the poor 15-19. With Michael Bramos scoring his first three pointer to give the +4 at the end.
The second period the home team and more precise Alex Tyus (205-C-88, college: Florida) tied the game from inside the paint. On the other end, Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) sank back-to-back triples and the visitors took a 21-25 advantage. After a timeout, Jonathan Tabu (184-SG-85) responded with a triple to make sure the hosts stayed within a single possession. Alex Tyus started to get hot as he twice traded layups with Marcus Banks, then had a fastbreak slam-dunk and finally got a lucky bounce on a hook shot to put Cantu up 32-30. Alex Tyus was also a significant defensive presence in the paint, causing a couple of turnovers and blocking 2 shots, which electrified the crowd. Panathinaikos still managed to get back in front due to a savvy steal from Banks and a layup from Ukic, while in the final seconds a layup from Jeff Brooks sent teams into halftime tied at 34-34.

Michael Bramos opened the third quarter with a triple, but Jonathan Tabu hit back-to-back shots from downtown on the way to 8 consecutive points for a 42-37 advantage. Panathinaikos wasted no time in responding and retaking the lead as Kostas Tsartsaris made a goal-foul and Ukic made a three-pointer. The seesaw battle continued with a long jumper from Brooks and a fastbreak layup from Aradori for 47-45. After Dimitris Diamantidis and Banks were perfect from the charity line, Aradori nailed a triple. Stephan Lasme scored inside and Michael Bramos beat the buzzer with a three-pointer to give Panathinaikos 50-54 lead going into the final 10 minutes.

The fourth and final period found Aradori cuting the Green lead with a floater as Cantu held the visitors scoreless for more than five minutes, including forcing turnovers on Panathinaikos's first four possessions in the quarter. Jonathan Tabu tied the game with a fastbreak layup, Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) sank a triple and Alex Tyus capped a 9-0 Cantu run with a monster dunk. Banks ended the visitors' drought with a put-back-plus-foul and Michael Bramos sank a triple that cut the deficit to 61-60. With less than four minutes remaining, Alex Tyus made a jump-hook and Manuchar Markoishvili scored from downtown to make it a 6-point margin, but Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis answered with back-to-back triples to tie the score at 66-66. Dimitris Diamantidis then found Lasme for an uncontested dunk and a 2-point lead. Alex Tyus made a pair of free throws for anther tie. However, Michael Bramos hit his seventh three-pointer for 68-71, and it turned out to be the decisive basket. In the remaining 50 seconds, Jonathan Tabu split a pair of free throws to cut the deficit to 2, and after Cantu successfully defended the next Panathinaikos possession, Jonathan Tabu missed a potential game-tying jumper as time expired

Top scorers:
Cantu: Jonathan Tabu 22 with 8 assists, Alex Tyus 17, Maarten Leunen 14
Panathinaikos: Michael Bramos 21 points and 9 rebounds, Dimitris Diamantidis 15 with 4 rebounds, 7 assists and 1 steal, Marcus Banks 9 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals

Interesting details of the game:

Panathinaikos without a real center dashed down 39 rebounds against just 22 for Cantu while and at the same time the Greens forced to 22 turnovers against only 9 of Cantu players


EuroLeague: Panathinaikos snatch win in Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Cantu - Panathinaikos 69:71

Panathinaikos eked out a tough road win over Cantu in Euroleague Group A. The Hellenes improved at 4-3 record, while Cantu fell at 2-5 in the ladder. Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) came up with 21 points and 9 rebounds to pace the visitors.
Panathinaikos ensured a 19:15 lead after ten minutes. Cantu however erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Italian team ensured a 34:34 tie game at the interval. The Hellenes pulled in front once again in the third term. Panathinaikos posted a 54:50 lead at the final intermission. Cantu opened the fourth frame on a 9:0 run to take a 5-point lead. Markoishvili made it 66:60 for Cantu with just over three minutes to go. Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) answered with back-to-back three-pointers to knot things up at 66. Lasme and Alex Tyus (205-C-88, college: Florida) exchanged points as the teams stayed tied. Michael Bramos then followed with a three-pointer to give the visitors a 71:68 lead. Cantu could not recover in the late seconds as Jonathan Tabu (184-SG-85) missed a triple. Dimitris Diamantidis provided 15 points, 7 assists and 4 boards for the winners. Alex Tyus answered with 18 points for Cantu. Jonathan Tabu had 17 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Cantu: Alex Tyus 18, Jonathan Tabu 17
Panathinaikos: Michael Bramos 21, Dimitris Diamantidis 15, Marcus Banks (188-G-81, college: UNLV) 9


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   

Standings - Eredivisie

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

Regular Season: Round 9

Nov. 22: Leeuwarden - Amsterdam 91-85
Nov. 21: M.Magixx - Den Helder K. 82-67
Nov. 22: Den Bosch - Groningen 64-68
Nov. 21: Leiden - Rotterdam 101-66
Nov. 24: Groningen - Leeuwarden
Nov. 24: Den Helder K. - Weert


Robin Smeulders selected the top Dutch playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Robin Smeulders
Robin Smeulders
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Robin Smeulders (207-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland, currently plays in EuroChallenge). He was the major contributor in a EWE Baskets' victory against the fourth-ranked Kormend (0-3) crushing them 95-64 in the EuroChallenge in Wednesday night's game. Smeulders scored 15 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in a mere 19 minutes on the court; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. EWE Baskets Oldenburg (3-0) is placed first in group F. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Smeulders has relatively good stats this year: 11.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 66.7%(12-18) in the three games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Dutch and German. Smeulders is currently a member of the Dutch senior national team.

Henk Norel
Henk Norel
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Henk Norel (214-87, currently plays in Spain). He led CAI Zaragoza to an easy victory against the 16th-ranked Cajasol (1-7) crushing them 86-55 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Norel scored 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. CAI Zaragoza (5-3) is placed fifth in the ACB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Norel's first year with the team. This season he has relatively solid stats: 10.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 2FGP: 56.5%(35-62) and FT: 54.5%. Norel is in the roster of the Dutch senior national team.

Kevin van Wijk
Kevin van Wijk
   #3. The Dutch player who performed third best last week abroad was former U16 international forward Kevin van Wijk (203-89, currently plays college basketball in the States). van Wijk led Valparaiso to an overtime victory against the Kent State University 88-83 in the NCAA in Sunday night's game. He recorded 25 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. The Valparaiso University has conference record this season. This year van Wijk averages: 7.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 2FGP: 48.1% and FT: 72.2%. He played for the Dutch U16 national team seven years ago.

Kadeem Pantophlet
Kadeem Pantophlet
   #4. Forward Kadeem Pantophlet (201-90, currently studies in the States) led Duquesne to a victory against the Youngstown State University 84-74 in the NCAA last Wednesday. Pantophlet recorded 13 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. The University of Duquesne has conference record this season. This year Pantophlet's overall stats are: 7.9ppg and 4.1rpg in the eight games. He used to play for the Dutch U20 national team back in 2009.

Thomas van der Mars
Thomas van der Mars
   #5. Former U20 international center Thomas van der Mars (208-90, is currently at the American university), who plays in the NCAA could not help the Portland in their last game. Despite van der Mars' good performance the Portland was badly defeated 83-64 on the road by the Montana State University. He recorded 13 points in 22 minutes. van der Mars has reliable stats this year: 10.6ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.3apg in the seven games. He used to play for the Dutch U20 national team two years ago.

Jito Kok
Jito Kok
   #6. Center Jito Kok (206-94, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA was not able to help the San Diego in their last game on Thursday. Despite Kok's good performance the San Diego was edged 74-71 at home by the Cal State - Northridge. He recorded 10 points, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks. Kok's stats this season are: 10.6ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.3apg. He is U18 international player who is currently on the Dutch National Team roster.

Roeland Schaftenaar
Roeland Schaftenaar
   #7. Former international power forward Roeland Schaftenaar (211-88, college: Oregon St., currently plays in Spain) contributed to a Leche Rio Breogan's victory against one of league's weakest teams Melilla Baloncesto (1-6) 64-57 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. Schaftenaar recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 18 minutes. Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (4-3) is placed sixth in the LEB Gold. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. This year Schaftenaar's total stats are: 6.5ppg and 5.0rpg in the six games. He used to play for the Dutch national team two years ago.

Charlon Kloof
Charlon Kloof
   #8. Guard Charlon Kloof (190-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to secure a victory for the St.Bonaventure in their game against the Canisius College (0-0) in the NCAA. He scored only 4 points and added 4 assists in 28 minutes. The St.Bonaventure was edged 72-69 in Buffalo, NY by the Canisius College. Kloof has averaged so far 6.5ppg and 5.0rpg in the six games. He used to play for the Dutch U20 national team back in 2010.

Gerald Robinson
Gerald Robinson
   #9. International power forward Gerald Robinson (202-84, college: Tenn-Martin, currently plays in EuroChallenge) helped his Cypriot team Apollon edge the leader Gravelines-Dunkerque (2-1) 89-88 in the EuroChallenge on Tuesday night. Robinson scored 7 points. Pizza Express Apollon Limassol (1-2) is placed fourth in group G. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Robinson has averaged so far 3.0ppg and 2.0rpg. He is a naturalized American. Robinson used to play for the Dutch national team last year. He played also for Landstede Basketbal Zwolle in Dutch league.

Shane Hammink
Shane Hammink
   #10. Forward Shane Hammink (201-94, currently plays college basketball in the States) managed to help Louisiana State University to win against the Northwestern State University 102-95 in the NCAA last Tuesday. Hammink scored only 1 points. The Louisiana State University has conference record this season. It's Hammink's first year with the team. He has averaged so far 7.6ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.1apg. Hammink is a naturalized American. He is U18 international player who is currently on the Dutch National Team roster. Strangely Hammink has never played in Holland.

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

   #1. Kim Tillie (210-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB could not help UCAM Murcia (24-6) in their last game. Despite his good performance his team was edged in an overtime 99-97 at home by the second-ranked G.Canaria 2014. Tillie scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in a mere 17 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's Tillie's first year with the team. This season Tillie's overall stats are: 7.9ppg and 4.1rpg in the eight games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Dutch and French.

   #2. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93, currently plays in Spain) contributed to a 2-point Caceres Basket's victory against the closely-ranked CB Clavijo (4-4) 72-70 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. Van Oostrum recorded 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Caceres Basket (3-4) is placed ninth in the LEB Gold. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Van Oostrum has reliable stats this season: 10.6ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.3apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Dutch and British.

   #3. Joey van Zegeren McAdam (208-F-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) managed to help Virginia Tech to win against the Virginia Military Institute 95-80 in the NCAA in Thursday night's game. van Zegeren McAdam recorded only 4 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. The Virginia Tech has conference record this season. van Zegeren McAdam has averaged so far 6.5ppg and 5.0rpg.

   #4. Josh Duinker (210-F/C-89, college: Richmond, currently plays in Spain) is a teammate of previously mentioned Devon Van Oostrum and both played together in the last Spanish LEB Gold game. Duinker contributed to a 2-point Caceres Basket's victory against the closely-ranked CB Clavijo (4-4) 72-70. He recorded 5 points in 17 minutes. Duinker has averaged so far 7.6ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.1apg in the seven games. He has both Australian and Dutch nationalities.

   #5. Daniel Kickert (208-C/F-83, college: St.Mary's, CA, currently plays in Ukraine) was not able to help Dnipro (4-10) in their game against BC Donetsk (7-7) in the Ukrainian Superleague. He recorded only 4 points in 28 minutes. Dnipro lost in an overtime 68-80 on the road to the higher-ranked (#7) BC Donetsk. It's Kickert's first season with the team. Kickert's stats this year are: 14.6ppg, 4.4rpg and 1.2apg in the 12 games. He also holds two passports: Australian and Dutch.


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

Standings - A Division

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

Regular Season: Round 9

Nov. 23: Szedeak - Atomeromu 85-92
Nov. 24: Jaszberenyi - Soproni
Nov. 24: Kaposvari - ZTE KK
Nov. 24: PVSK Pannon - Kormend
Nov. 24: Falco-Szova - Marso NYKK
Nov. 24: Albacomp - FS Debrecen



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


Basketball Ireland Weekend Preview / CCBB fixtures and U14 Tnmnt - by Patrick Maher

Basketball Ireland Weekend Preview

This seasons undefeated pacesetters UCC Demons take on last years league and cup champions UL Eagles in the latest round of Nivea For Mens SuperLeague action.

Prior to that mouth-watering tie however, Eagles will have to square off against Dublin Inter on Friday night, the first game of their double header weekend. There is also a double header weekend for Killester who travel first to Galway on Saturday to play Moycullen before returning to Dublin on Sunday to take on UCD Marian.

Also in action over the weekend are DCU Saints and Bord Gais Neptune who meet in Neptune Stadium Saturday night.

The highlight of the weekend is undoubtedly that top of the table clash between UL Eagles and UCC Demons on Saturday night in UL Arena.

This is a huge weekend for us, remarked Eagles head coach Mark Keenan.

UCC Demons have set the pace all the way from the start of the league in late September and really, we must go after the win to keep the pressure on at the top end of the league.

Demons coach Paul Kelleher is not thinking big picture and has his team focused entirely on this weekends game.

We havent looked beyond this weekend at all. We have remained focused all season on just what is in front of us and that is part of the reason we have been successful I think.

Eagles do not have the luxury of simply focusing on the Demons game however as they must first hurdle a potentially tricky Dublin Inter game on Friday night. Inter put a serious dent in Bord Gais Neptunes title aspirations last weekend, defeating the third placed SuperLeague side by 11 points, and will be looking to cause an even bigger upset this weekend.

We played Eagles pretty well last time we played. We were close at half time and then had one of the worst shooting performances I have ever seen in the second half. If we can play again, for the full 40 minutes like we did in that first half we can win, said Inter head coach Audrius Jonusas.

Keenan is well aware that his side cannot afford to overlook the game on Friday as they prepare for the weekend.

Dublin Inter will have gained confidence from their win last Sunday and I expect a really tough battle from them up in the National Basketball Arena.

Bord Gais Neptune coach Mark Scannell has plenty to ponder as he tries to rally his team for their matchup with DCU Saints. Aside from their surprise loss to Dublin Inter a week ago, Scannell is also dealing with a number of injuries to key players in his squad.

Ger Noonan and Michael McGinn are both suffering with injuries at the moment and our American (Darren Townes) has been back and forth to the physio and we arent sure if he is going to recover, said Scannell.

Ger was a huge loss for us last weekend when he came out in the first half. He tried to play again in the fourth but couldnt go and McGinn picked up a dead leg and we just have to wait and see if that can loosen up for him said Scannell.

DCU Saints head coach Dave Donnelly will have little sympathy for his Neptune counterpart however as he has panel selection worries of his own with impactful centre Martins Provizors unlikely to be available for Saturdays fixture.

Despite that setback and a current four game losing streak, Donnelly insists that the mood in the camp is good. This team were league finalists last year and two of their last four losses came courtesy of one point and overtime defeats.

We have had a lot of close games and the guys are still working extremely hard in training so we are not pessimistic about travelling down to Cork, even to face a team of Neptunes quality, said Donnelly.

In Galway, Moycullen welcome Killester of Dublin to NUIG on Saturday afternoon. Former Galway hoop hero Puff Summers, who lined out for Moycullen during their first ever SuperLeague season three years ago, now dons the Killester jersey, a fact that is sure to add extra interest to the sides matchup this weekend.

Neither team will need much extra motivation however as they have both been left lagging towards the bottom of the table with just two wins.

Killester are coming off a bad loss to UCD Marian last Saturday but will have a chance at revenge this weekend when they follow up the Moycullen game on Saturday with a Marian rematch on Sunday.

Despite a comfortable 23 point winning margin, Marian head coach Sasa Punosevac is wary of a Killester backlash this weekend.

They will be very tough to beat two times in a row. We are completely focused on the game coming and have forgotten about the old game, the next is a new one and we are ready for that.

This Weekends Basketball Ireland Fixtures

Friday, November 23rd

Nivea For Men's SuperLeague

Dublin Inter v UL Eagles, National Basketball Arena, 19:45

Saturday, November 24th

Nivea For Men's SuperLeague

Moycullen v Killester, NUI Galway, 15:45 ; Bord Gais Neptune v DCU Saints, Neptune Stadium, 19:00 ; UL Eagles v UCC Demons, UL Arena, 19:30

Basketball Ireland Men's Division One

Donegal Town v Ulster Elks, Abbey VS, 17:30 ; Templeogue Azzurri v Team Left Bank Kilkenny, Oblate Hall Inchicore, 19:00 ; Team Garveys St Marys v Blue Demons, Castleisland, 19:45

Sunday, November 25th

Nivea For Men's SuperLeague

UCD Marian v Killester, UCD Sports Complex, 15:00

Nivea Womens SuperLeague

Singleton SuperValu Brunell v DCU Mercy, Parochial Hall, 14:45

Basketball Ireland Men's Division One

Ballon BC v Matt OFlaherty Chemists Titans, Palmerstown, 14:30

Courtesy Cian Nihill .... www.basketballireland.ie

Cork county Basketball Board fixtures:

U.16 B C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 6.30pm Fr. Mathews Mallow Y.C.
U.16 A C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 6.30pm Carraig na bhFear Fr. Mathews
U.16 A C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 7.30pm Limerick Lions Neptune
U.16 B C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 7.30pm Skibbereen Carrigaline
Div 1 C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 8.30pm Fr. Mathews www.Corkinfo.pl
Div 2 C/Ship Nov Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Friday 23/11/2012 8.30pm Skibbereen Cork Celts
U.10 Nov Neptune Stadium Friday 23/11/2012 6.30pm Neptune Fr. Mathews 1
U.13 Nov Neptune Stadium Friday 23/11/2012 6.30pm Neptune A Blue Demons 2
U.13 Nov Neptune Stadium Friday 23/11/2012 7.30pm Neptune B Carrigaline 2
Div 2 Nov Neptune Stadium Friday 23/11/2012 7.30pm Neptune Ballincollig 1
U.20 Nov Neptune Stadium Friday 23/11/2012 8.30pm Neptune Blue Demons 2
Div 1 Nov Colaiste Muire, Crosshaven Friday 23/11/2012 8.00pm Crosshaven E.C. Glenmary
U.14 00pm Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher. Saturday 24/11/2012 Under 14 Tournament
U.12 Nov Cobh Community Centre, Orelia Tce, Cobh Saturday 24/11/2012 5.15pm Cobh Limerick Celtics
U.16 A Nov Presentation School, Sexton St, Limerick Saturday 24/11/2012 2.15pm Limerick Lakers Carraig na bhFear
U.18 A Nov Presentation School, Sexton St, Limerick Saturday 24/11/2012 3.30pm Limerick Lakers St. Brendans
U.14 A Nov Presentation School, Sexton St, Limerick Sunday 25/11/2012 3.45pm Limerick Lakers Neptune B
U.14 B Nov New Hall, Skibbereen. Saturday 24/11/2012 6.30pm Skibbereen Mallow Y.C.
U.16 B Nov New Hall, Skibbereen. Saturday 24/11/2012 7.30pm Skibbereen Mallow Y.C.
Div 2 Nov New Hall, Skibbereen. Saturday 24/11/2012 8.30pm Skibbereen Mallow Y.C.

The u14 tournament at the Gurranabraher Parochial can be an interesting proposition for any basketball fans in or around the Cork area tomorrow with teams travelling from the length and breath of Ireland.Generally the competitive nature of the players is second to none and by the time teams reach the Semi finals stages closer competition usually ensues.The 2 euros admittance fee is the best value in town over the weekend with The Tasty Snacks eaterie next door providing the best quality chicken and fish also in town (no brag just fact).I hope to see you there tomorrow. Kenton Walker (203-F, college: Creighton)


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


EuroLeague: Montepaschi Siena closed the round with the win over Maccabi Electra - by Eurobasket News

Montepaschi Siena - Maccabi Electra 89:87

Montepaschi Siena closed the round with the win over Maccabi Electra on Friday night. The Italian team grabbed valuable 89:87 victory.
The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 30-22 run, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for Bobby Brown (188-PG-84, college: CS Fullerton) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 6 assists. Daniel Hackett (200-PG-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC) accounted for 13 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Shawn James (207-C-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Northeastern) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds (perfect from the field making all nine shots) and Lior Eliyahu (206-SF-85) added 19 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Maccabi T-A in the defeat. Four Montepaschi Siena and five Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures.
The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Montepaschi Siena. Defending Italian champion maintains third place in Group B with 4-3 record behind leader Real Madrid. Defending Israeli champion Maccabi T-A keeps the second position with two games lost. Montepaschi Siena's next round opponent will be Unicaja Malaga at home. Maccabi T-A will play against Chalon/Saor.

Montepaschi: Bobby Brown 16, Daniel Hackett 13, Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) 12, Kristjan Kangur (201-SF-82) 12
Maccabi T-A: Shawn James 22+12rebs, Lior Eliyahu 19, Ricky Hickman (189-PG-85, college: NC-Greensboro) 13


*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Nazionale A Round 11: Matera keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Matera as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Matera defeated 6th ranked Agrigento at home 57-48. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Agrigento. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 19-9. But Agrigento won second period 11-10. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 28 personal fouls committed by Agrigento helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was power forward Antonio Iannuzzi (207-91, agency: Two Points) who scored 8 points and 9 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian guard Carlos Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Power forward Andrea Quarisa (202-92) produced 10 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Agrigento's coach Franco Ciani rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Matera have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Torino. Newly promoted Agrigento dropped to the seventh place with four games lost. Agrigento will play next round against Omegna trying to get back on the winning streak. Matera will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Firenze at home.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Treviglio (7-3) against thirteenth ranked Casalpusterlengo (4-6) on Wednesday night. Visiting Treviglio was crushed by Casalpusterlengo in Casalpusterlengo 83-53. Power forward Alberto Chiumenti (204-87, agency: Players Group) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. Tommaso Marino contributed with 20 points, 7 assists and 5 steals for the winners. The former international guard Davide Reati (193-88) answered with 16 points for Treviglio. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Casalpusterlengo moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Treviglio lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with three games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Casalpusterlengo will play against Mirandola (#17) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Treviglio will play against Castelletto (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Bari, where higher ranked Bari (5-5) lost at home to seventeenth ranked Mirandola (3-8) 65-71 on Wednesday. It was a great evening for Alessandro Mancin who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (perfect from the field making all nine shots !!!). Mirandola's coach Antonio Tinti used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Luca Bisconti responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds. Mirandola moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with Latina Basket. Bari at the other side keeps the eighth position with five games lost. Mirandola will meet at home higher ranked Casalpusterlengo (#10) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bari will play against Reggio Calabr. in Reggio Calabria and hope to secure a win.

Other games of round 11 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Latina Basket was defeated by San Severo in a road game 70-54. Torino beat Chieti at home 77-61. Lucca won against Recanati on the opponent's court 77-71. Ferrara managed to outperform Omegna in a home game 74-62. Reggio Calabr. was rolled over Firenze on the road 88-65.
The best stats of 11th round was 21 points and 8 rebounds by Jakub Wojciechowski of Torino.

Matera - Agrigento 57-48

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Matera as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Matera defeated 6th ranked Agrigento at home 57-48. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Agrigento. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 19-9. But Agrigento won second period 11-10. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 28 personal fouls committed by Agrigento helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was power forward Antonio Iannuzzi (207-91, agency: Two Points) who scored 8 points and 9 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian guard Carlos Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Power forward Andrea Quarisa (202-92) produced 10 points and 7 rebounds and guard Giuseppe Anello (188-88) added 7 points respectively for the guests. Agrigento's coach Franco Ciani rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Matera have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Torino. Newly promoted Agrigento dropped to the seventh place with four games lost. Agrigento will play next round against Omegna trying to get back on the winning streak. Matera will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Firenze at home.
Top scorers:
Matera: C.Sebastian Vico 11+5reb+2ast, C.Grappasonni 10+6reb, A.Vitale 8+3reb, M.Cozzoli 8+4reb+1ast, A.Iannuzzi 8+9reb+1ast, C.Cantone 6+3reb+1ast
Agrigento: A.Quarisa 10+7reb, R.Castelli 9+1reb, G.Anello 7+4reb+3ast, F.Mian 6+1reb, D.Demartini 5+3reb+1ast, Q.De Laurentiis 4
gschID: 191710


San Severo - Latina Basket 70-54

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourteenth ranked Mazzeo San Severo and 15th ranked Latina Basket had identical 3-7 record. This time Mazzeo San Severo used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Latina 70-54 on Wednesday night. The game without a history. Mazzeo San Severo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great evening for center Andrea Iannilli (207-84) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Naturalized Senegalese guard Ousmane Gueye (188-82) helped adding 25 points and 4 steals. Forward Filippo Gagliardo (206-78) responded with 9 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Riccardo Santolamazza (195-83) scored 8 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Mazzeo San Severo maintains fourteenth place with 4-7 record. Latina Basket at the other side dropped to the sixteenth position with eight games lost. They share it with Mirandola. Mazzeo San Severo will meet league's second-placed Torino on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Latina Basket will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
San Severo: O.Gueye 25+2reb+1ast, A.Iannilli 16+10reb+4ast, I.Scarponi 10+3reb, G.Sirakov 7+1ast, R.Maggio 6+3reb+4ast, M.Del Brocco 4+8reb+4ast
Latina Basket: F.Gagliardo 9+9reb+2ast, T.Milani 8+2ast, T.Plateo 8+2reb, R.Santolamazza 8+5reb+3ast, R.Tavernelli 6+6reb, A.Pastore 5+1ast
gschID: 191708


Casalpusterlengo - Treviglio 83-53

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Treviglio (7-3) against thirteenth ranked Casalpusterlengo (4-6) on Wednesday night. Visiting Treviglio was crushed by Casalpusterlengo in Casalpusterlengo 83-53. The game without a history. Casalpusterlengo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Casalpusterlengo forced 20 Treviglio turnovers. Power forward Alberto Chiumenti (204-87, agency: Players Group) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 20 points, 7 assists and 5 steals for the winners. The former international guard Davide Reati (193-88) answered with 16 points and power forward Giacomo Maspero (202-92) added 4 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Treviglio. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Casalpusterlengo moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Treviglio lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with three games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Casalpusterlengo will play against Mirandola (#17) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Treviglio will play against Castelletto (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Casalpusterlengo: A.Chiumenti 25+10reb, T.Marino 20+3reb+7ast, R.Prandin 11+5reb+4ast, M.Planezio 10+1reb, G.Ricci 9+8reb+1ast, M.Venuto 5+2reb+5ast
Treviglio: D.Reati 16+4reb, R.Perego 10+2reb, S.Tomasini 7+2reb, R.Malagoli 6+4reb, L.Molinaro 4+4reb, S.Ferrarese 4+3ast
gschID: 191706


Torino - Chieti 77-61

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Torino (9-2) defeated at home 9th ranked Chieti (4-6) 77-61 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Torino. Chieti managed to win fourth quarter 17-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Chieti 39-27 including 28 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for naturalized Polish power forward Jakub Wojciechowski (210-90) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 8 rebounds. Power forward Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-91) helped adding 14 points and 16 rebounds. Four Torino players scored in double figures. Torino's coach Stefano Pillastrini used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. point guard Manuel Diomede (188-90, agency: Two Points) responded with 16 points and forward Gaetano Spera (211-93, college: St.Peter's) scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. Torino have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Matera. Chieti at the other side keeps the ninth place with six games lost. They share the position with 4 other teams. Torino will meet at home Mazzeo San Severo (#14) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Chieti will play against Naturhouse Ferrara (#13) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Torino: J.Wojciechowski 21+8reb+3ast, F.Baldi Rossi 14+16reb, C.Tommasini 13+2reb+4ast, M.Evangelisti 10+1ast, L.Gergati 9+2reb, D.Parente 5+2reb+2ast
Chieti: M.Diomede 16+1reb+3ast, G.Spera 12+7reb, G.Severini 11+6reb+1ast, A.Raschi 8+3reb+1ast, E.Rossi 7+6reb+2ast, L.Bolletta 5+3reb
gschID: 191711


Bari - Mirandola 65-71

We should mention about the upset which took place in Bari, where higher ranked Bari (5-5) lost at home to seventeenth ranked Mirandola (3-8) 65-71 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 6 points. Mirandola forced 19 Bari turnovers. It was a great evening for center Alessandro Mancin (208-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (perfect from the field making all nine shots !!!). point guard Jordan Losi (182-80, agency: Two Points) helped adding 14 points and 5 assists. Mirandola's coach Antonio Tinti used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds and guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81) scored 17 points. Mirandola moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with Latina Basket. Bari at the other side keeps the eighth position with five games lost. Mirandola will meet at home higher ranked Casalpusterlengo (#10) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bari will play against Reggio Calabr. in Reggio Calabria and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Mirandola: A.Mancin 19+10reb, M.Venturelli 14+1reb+2ast, J.Losi 14+4reb+5ast, A.Pilotti 7+2reb+3ast, L.Pignatti 7+7reb+1ast, M.Fantinelli 5+3reb+1ast
Bari: L.Bisconti 20+15reb+2ast, A.Ruggiero 17+3reb, S.Bonfiglio 10+4reb+5ast, D.Bonessio 9+3reb+3ast, T.Laquintana 4, M.Cardillo 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 191709


Recanati - Lucca 71-77

Very expected game when 11th ranked Recanati (4-6) was defeated at home by seventh ranked Lucca (7-3) 77-71 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 10 points after three quarters before their 25-9 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great evening for the former international forward Walter Santarossa (200-78) who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points and 6 assists. Guard Andrea Barsanti (189-86) helped adding 13 points and 4 assists. Lucca's coach Roberto Russo allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Marco Tagliabue (206-86) responded with 16 points and 5 rebounds and guard Marco Gnaccarini (185-81) scored 15 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Lucca moved-up to third place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Recanati dropped to the ninth position with six games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Lucca will meet at home bottom-ranked Bologna (#19) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Recanati will play against Perugia (#15) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Lucca: W.Santarossa 16+4reb+6ast, A.Barsanti 13+4reb+4ast, D.Banti 11+4reb, M.Negri 11+1ast, R.Casagrande 9+3reb, D.Parente 9+3ast
Recanati: M.Tagliabue 16+5reb, M.Gnaccarini 15+2reb+4ast, A.Pierini 11+6reb, G.Cantagalli 10+5reb+2ast, N.Benedusi 7+3reb+2ast, M.Pierangeli 5+3reb
gschID: 191707


Ferrara - Omegna 74-62

There was a small surprise when thirteenth ranked Naturhouse Ferrara (4-6) beat at home 10th ranked Omegna (4-6) 74-62 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Naturhouse Ferrara. Omegna managed to win second period 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Naturhouse Ferrara forced 19 Omegna turnovers. It was a great evening for forward Simone Cortesi (196-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 13 points and 6 rebounds. Power forward Michele Benfatto (205-85) helped adding 8 points and 8 rebounds. Naturhouse Ferrara's coach Alberto Morea allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Stefano Masciadri (200-89) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds and swingman Christian Villani (200-82) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Naturhouse Ferrara moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Omegna. Naturhouse Ferrara will meet Chieti (#9) on the road in the next round. Omegna will play against Agrigento and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ferrara: A.Campiello 14+2reb+2ast, S.Cortesi 13+6reb+1ast, S.Casati 11, M.Ferri 9+1reb, M.Benfatto 8+8reb+3ast, M.Fallucca 7+2reb
Omegna: S.Masciadri 16+12reb, C.Villani 14+5reb+1ast, M.Toure 10+2reb+2ast, A.Saccaggi 9+3reb, M.Farioli 6+2reb, P.Paci 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 191704


Firenze - Reggio Calabr. 88-65

Not a big story in a game when 18th ranked Reggio Calabr. (1-9) was outplayed on the road by sixth ranked Firenze (7-3) 88-65 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Firenze. Reggio Calabr. managed to win fourth quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 22-of-25 free shots (88.0 percent) during the game, while Reggio Calabr. only scored six points from the stripe. Firenze forced 24 Reggio Calabr. turnovers. It was a great evening for swingman Daniele Casadei (199-81) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points and 5 rebounds. The former international point guard Mattia Caroldi (185-82) helped adding 13 points, 8 assists and 5 steals. Firenze's coach Riccardo Paolini felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. point guard Nunzio Sabbatino (190-92) responded with 11 points and 6 assists and point guard Antonello Ricci (190-92) scored 12 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Firenze have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with 3 other teams. Reggio Calabr. lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the eighteenth position with nine games lost. Firenze will meet league's leader Matera on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Reggio Calabr. will play against Bari (#8).
Top scorers:
Firenze: D.Casadei 17+5reb+1ast, M.Sanna 15+5reb, M.Caroldi 13+8ast, S.Spizzichini 12+4reb+1ast, A.Capitanelli 9+9reb+1ast, S.Rabaglietti 9+1ast
Reggio Calabr.: A.Ricci 12+4reb+1ast, F.Quaglia 11+5reb+1ast, M.Ammannato 11+5reb, N.Sabbatino 11+1reb+6ast, L.Fontecchio 8+4reb+1ast, M.Caprari 6+1reb+2ast
gschID: 191702



Best players of Italian Nazionale A round 11 - by Eurobasket News

Talented naturalized Polish Jakub Wojciechowski (210-F/C-90) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Torino and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Nazionale A Player of the Week award for round 11.
The 22-year old power forward had the game-high 21 points adding eight rebounds and three assists for Torino in his team's victory, helping them to crush Chieti (#9, 4-6) with 16-point margin 77-61. Torino maintains the 2nd position in Polish Nazionale A. They are still close to the very top. Torino would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 9-2 record. In the team's last game Wojciechowski had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Torino's top player in his first season with the team. Jakub Wojciechowski averages this season 16.2ppg and 8.2rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-F/C-82) of Bari. Bisconti impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 20 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Bari lost that game 65-71 to the lower-ranked Mirandola (#17, 3-8). Bari managed to keep the same 8th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 5-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Bisconti is a newcomer at Bari and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Alberto Chiumenti (204-F/C-87, agency: Players Group) of Casalpusterlengo (#10). Chiumenti scored 25 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Casalpusterlengo, leading his team to a 83-53 easy win against the higher-ranked Treviglio (#3, 7-3). The chances of Casalpusterlengo ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Chiumenti could help Casalpusterlengo to bring them higher in the standings. Chiumenti has a very solid season. In 10 games in Italy he scored 14.4ppg. He also has 6.4rpg and FGP: 57.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-F/C-91) of Torino - 14 points and 16 rebounds
5. Ousmane Gueye (188-G-82) of San Severo - 25 points and 2 rebounds
6. Andrea Iannilli (207-C-84) of San Severo - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Alessandro Mancin (208-C-86) of Mirandola - 19 points and 10 rebounds
8. Tommaso Marino (190-G-86) of Casalpusterlengo - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Stefano Masciadri (200-F-89) of Omegna - 16 points and 12 rebounds
10. Andrea Capitanelli (203-C-86) of Firenze - 9 points and 9 rebounds

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


Euroleague: Armani Milan grabs final straw against Cedetiva Zagreb: 75-60 - by Pervin Elgin

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan improved to 3-4 in group C of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague by defeating Cedetiva Zagreb with 75-60, and still has a chance to make it to the final 16. Milan made the difference in the third period. Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81) scored 15 points for Milan, Ioannis Bourousis (213-C-83, agency: FCM) and Keith Langford (193-SG-83, college: Kansas) added 11.

Zagreb opened the score in the first period, answered with a three pointer by Fotsis. After 5 minutes the score was tied at 11-11, after 7 minutes at 15-15. A big threepointer by Nicolo Melli gave Milan the after 9 minutes (20-18), and in the final minute, neither team managed to score.

The hosts increased the lead to 29-22 after 13 minutes, but Cedevita refused to surrender and once again tied the score in the 18th minute: 32-32. The guests grabbed the lead after that and managed to go to the locker room with a narrow 36-37 lead.

Omar Cook regained the lead for Milan with a threepointer in the third period. Cedevita tied once again after 24 minutes, 41-41, but Armani scored 8-1 and 12-0 runs run after that. With a 25-9 period score, the hosts finished the quarter 61-46 ahead.

The host continued their dominance in the fourth quarter. A threepointer by Keith Langford increased the gap to 20+ points after 34 minutes: 70-49. Cedevita was allowed to regain a little dignity in the final minutes, but at the final buzzer Emporio Armani Milan celebrated a clear and much needed win: 75-60.


EuroLeague: Panathinaikos snatch win in Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Cantu - Panathinaikos 69:71

Panathinaikos eked out a tough road win over Cantu in Euroleague Group A. The Hellenes improved at 4-3 record, while Cantu fell at 2-5 in the ladder. Michael Bramos (197-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) came up with 21 points and 9 rebounds to pace the visitors.
Panathinaikos ensured a 19:15 lead after ten minutes. Cantu however erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Italian team ensured a 34:34 tie game at the interval. The Hellenes pulled in front once again in the third term. Panathinaikos posted a 54:50 lead at the final intermission. Cantu opened the fourth frame on a 9:0 run to take a 5-point lead. Markoishvili made it 66:60 for Cantu with just over three minutes to go. Michael Bramos and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) answered with back-to-back three-pointers to knot things up at 66. Lasme and Alex Tyus (205-C-88, college: Florida) exchanged points as the teams stayed tied. Michael Bramos then followed with a three-pointer to give the visitors a 71:68 lead. Cantu could not recover in the late seconds as Jonathan Tabu (184-SG-85) missed a triple. Dimitris Diamantidis provided 15 points, 7 assists and 4 boards for the winners. Alex Tyus answered with 18 points for Cantu. Jonathan Tabu had 17 points and 8 assists in the loss.

Cantu: Alex Tyus 18, Jonathan Tabu 17
Panathinaikos: Michael Bramos 21, Dimitris Diamantidis 15, Marcus Banks (188-G-81, college: UNLV) 9


EuroLeague: Montepaschi Siena closed the round with the win over Maccabi Electra - by Eurobasket News

Montepaschi Siena - Maccabi Electra 89:87

Montepaschi Siena closed the round with the win over Maccabi Electra on Friday night. The Italian team grabbed valuable 89:87 victory.
The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 30-22 run, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for Bobby Brown (188-PG-84, college: CS Fullerton) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 6 assists. Daniel Hackett (200-PG-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC) accounted for 13 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Shawn James (207-C-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Northeastern) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds (perfect from the field making all nine shots) and Lior Eliyahu (206-SF-85) added 19 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Maccabi T-A in the defeat. Four Montepaschi Siena and five Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures.
The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Montepaschi Siena. Defending Italian champion maintains third place in Group B with 4-3 record behind leader Real Madrid. Defending Israeli champion Maccabi T-A keeps the second position with two games lost. Montepaschi Siena's next round opponent will be Unicaja Malaga at home. Maccabi T-A will play against Chalon/Saor.

Montepaschi: Bobby Brown 16, Daniel Hackett 13, Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) 12, Kristjan Kangur (201-SF-82) 12
Maccabi T-A: Shawn James 22+12rebs, Lior Eliyahu 19, Ricky Hickman (189-PG-85, college: NC-Greensboro) 13


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

Standings - JBL

JBL Standings
 1. Toyota Alvark 13-2 
 2. Aishin SH 12-3 
 3. Panasonic T. 9-5 
 4. Hitachi SR 8-6 
 5. Toshiba BT 8-6 
 6. Mitsubishi DD 4-10 
 7. Tochigi Brex 3-12 
 8. Hokkaido L. 1-14 

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 23: Hokkaido L. - Aishin SH 66-81
Nov. 23: Tochigi Brex - Toyota Alvark 58-91
Nov. 24: Hokkaido L. - Aishin SH
Nov. 24: Tochigi Brex - Toyota Alvark
Nov. 24: Hitachi SR - Panasonic T.
Nov. 24: Mitsubishi DD - Toshiba BT
Nov. 25: Hitachi SR - Panasonic T.
Nov. 25: Mitsubishi DD - Toshiba BT


Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague

Points Per Game
 Nick FAZEKAS
  Toshiba BT
  (211-F-85)
  Avg: 22.7
 1. Fazekas, Toshiba22.7 
 2. Smith, Hitachi SR18.3 
 3. Watkins, Panasoni.17.3 
 4. Kawamura, Tochigi16.2 
 5. Kanamaru, Panasoni.15.4 
 6. Sakuragi, Aishin SH15.1 
 7. Orimo, Hokkaido L.13.9 
 8. Takeuchi, Hitac.13.4 
 9. Rolle, Mitsubis.13.4 
 10. Gibbs, Toyota A.13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 J.R. SAKURAGI
  Aishin SH
  (206-F/C-76)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Sakuragi, Aishin SH12.6 
 2. Watkins, Panasoni.12.4 
 3. Fazekas, Toshiba11.3 
 4. Takeuchi, Hitac.9.3 
 5. Smith, Hitachi SR8.6 
 6. Gibbs, Toyota A.8.5 
 7. Takeuchi, Toyota7.8 
 8. Young, Aishin SH7.5 
 9. Klette, Hokkaido L.6.9 
 10. Diouf, Toshiba BT6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Ryota SAKURAI
  Hokkaido.
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Sakurai, Hokkaido.4.1 
 2. Sakuragi, Aishin SH4.0 
 3. Shinoyama, Toshi.3.8 
 4. Tsuji, Toshiba BT3.6 
 5. Kashiwagi, Aishin3.6 
 6. Kawamura, Tochigi3.2 
 7. Shonaka, Toyota A.2.6 
 8. Ito, Toyota Alvark2.4 
 9. Takeuchi, Hitac.2.4 
 10. Watanabe, Panaso.2.3 
Steals Per Game
 Shinsuke KASHIWAGI
  Aishin S.
  (183-PG-81)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Kashiwagi, Aishin1.8 
 2. Hirose, Panasoni.1.5 
 3. Sakuragi, Aishin SH1.3 
 4. Shinoyama, Toshi.1.2 
 5. Smith, Hitachi SR1.2 
 6. Kawamura, Tochigi1.2 
 7. Tashiro, Mitsubis.1.1 
 8. Ito, Toyota Alvark1.1 
 9. Takeuchi, Hitac.1.1 
 10. Fazekas, Toshiba1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Jameel WATKINS
  Panasoni.
  (211-C/F-77)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Watkins, Panasoni.2.1 
 2. Covile, Aishin SH1.3 
 3. Fazekas, Toshiba1.1 
 4. Young, Aishin SH1.1 
 5. Takeuchi, Toyota0.9 
 6. Takeuchi, Hitac.0.8 
 7. Hale, Mitsubis.0.8 
 8. Ricci, Toyota Alva.0.7 
 9. Smith, Hitachi SR0.7 
 10. Rolle, Mitsubis.0.7 


Standings - BJ League

BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Iwate Big Bulls 11-2 
 2. Toyama Grouses 9-5 
 3. Akita NH 8-2 
 4. Niigata Albirex 8-4 
 5. Shinshu BW 7-5 
 6. Yokohama BC 6-5 
 7. Tokyo Cinq R. 5-7 
 8. Chiba Jets 4-6 
 9. Sendai 89ers 3-7 
 10. Saitama Bron. 2-8 
 11. Gunma 1-13 
Western
 1. Okinawa GK 10-0 
 2. Fukuoka Rizing 8-4 
 3. Oita H.Devils 8-4 
 4. Shimane SM 8-5 
 5. Hamamatsu P. 8-6 
 6. Shiga L-Stars 6-6 
 7. Takamatsu FA 4-6 
 8. Kyoto Hannar. 4-8 
 9. Osaka Evessa 1-8 
 10. Miyazaki SS 1-11 

Regular Season: Round 14

Nov. 23: Yokohama BC - Iwate Big Bulls 84-89
Nov. 23: Osaka Evessa - Shimane SM 77-82
Nov. 24: Akita NH - Chiba Jets
Nov. 24: Toyama Grouses - Niigata Albirex
Nov. 24: Shinshu BW - Tokyo Cinq R.
Nov. 24: Gunma - Sendai 89ers
Nov. 24: Yokohama BC - Iwate Big Bulls
Nov. 24: Hamamatsu P. - Shiga L-Stars
Nov. 24: Kyoto Hannar. - Takamatsu FA
Nov. 24: Osaka Evessa - Shimane SM
Nov. 24: Oita H.Devils - Miyazaki SS
Nov. 24: Okinawa GK - Fukuoka Rizing


BJ League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Dominique KELLER
  Miyazaki.
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 21.3
 1. Keller, Miyazaki.21.3 
 2. Jones, Tokyo C.20.5 
 3. Burns, Yokohama BC19.8 
 4. Woodbury, Okina.19.1 
 5. Galloway, Hamamats.19.1 
 6. McHenry, Okina.18.9 
 7. Werner, Chiba Jets18.8 
 8. Parker, Shimane SM18.5 
 9. Kennedy, Yokohama.17.8 
 10. White, Oita H.17.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Wendell WHITE
  Oita H.
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. White, Oita H.13.7 
 2. Warren, Fukuoka13.1 
 3. Holm, Niigata Albi.12.8 
 4. Willard, Sendai 89.11.7 
 5. Williams, Takamats.11.2 
 6. Werner, Chiba Jets10.4 
 7. Green, Shinshu BW10.4 
 8. Cox, Osaka Evessa10.2 
 9. Pomare, Kyoto H.10.1 
 10. Parker, Shimane SM9.7 
Assists Per Game
 Kevin GALLOWAY
  Hamamats.
  (200-PG-88)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Galloway, Hamamats.6.9 
 2. Kensuke, Chiba Je.5.6 
 3. Shimura, Sendai5.0 
 4. Burns, Yokohama BC4.7 
 5. Namizato, Okina.4.4 
 6. Tomori, Gunma4.4 
 7. Harris, Akita NH4.3 
 8. Orr, Saitama Bron.4.1 
 9. Brown, Toyama G.4.0 
 10. Mito, Toyama G.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Draelon BURNS
  Yokohama BC
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Burns, Yokohama BC2.5 
 2. Brown, Toyama G.2.4 
 3. Masato, Iwate B.2.4 
 4. Parker, Shimane SM2.3 
 5. McHenry, Okina.2.0 
 6. Parmer, Hamamats.1.9 
 7. Ohguchi, Hamamats.1.9 
 8. Orr, Saitama Bron.1.9 
 9. Shimura, Sendai1.9 
 10. Aoki, Tokyo Cinq1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Lawrence BLACKLEDGE
  Iwate B.
  (206-F-86)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Blackledge, Iwate3.4 
 2. Davis, Shimane SM3.3 
 3. Newton, Okinawa GK2.1 
 4. Carter, Tokyo C.1.9 
 5. Brown, Toyama G.1.8 
 6. Marshall, Shins.1.7 
 7. Cox, Osaka Evessa1.6 
 8. Williams, Takamats.1.4 
 9. Okosa, Iwate B.1.3 
 10. Parker, Shimane SM1.3 



*****************************************************
  KENYA   


Strathmore Beat Equity in Game 2 to Tie Series - by Eurobasket News

STRATHMORE University teams levelled the play off series 1-1 after winning their Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) Game Two matches at Railways Club.

In the men's finals Blades beat Equity 58-49 to level the best of 5 series 1-all. Equity took the first two quarters 14-12 and 16-10 in this tough encounter. The students then recovered to claim the last two 25-12 and 11-7.

Bill Nyagosia played a key role with 10 points as did Peter Shilton for Strath. Hugh Ayara sunk 14, George Omenda bagged 16 points, Ian Wachiye shot 13 and Victor Musyoka 10 for Equity.

The women's final saw Strathmore whip Kenyatta University "Oryx" 46-22 to also tie the seris 1-1. The winners did their home work well keeping KU key players at bay most of the time. They led in all the four quarters 11-8, 6-3, 12-4 and 17-7.

Mid way through the last quarter, they shot two back to back three pointers from player/coach Sylvia Kamau and Susan Manya to make the scores 38-21 and from there it was only one team.

Manya had 15 points, Manuela Biel scored nine and Pauline Oketch hit seven. For the losers, Susan Kinyua had eight and six each came from Marial Ayen and Bettie Kananu.

Games three and four will be played this weekend at the same venue. Meanwhile United States International University (USIU) torched host African Nazarene University 76-10 in a one sided University and Colleges league match over the weekend.

Nancy Atieno was the main star for the Flames as she bagged a game high 20 points for the winners who had taken a strong 34-2 lead at half time.

Strathmore University whipped Catholic University of Eastern Africa (Cuea) 58-19 behind Quinter Odongo's 18 points. Usiu Tigers mauled Multi Media University (MMU) 40-27 as Evans letting scored 18 points.

Strathmore 653 kenya Polytechnic University 63-41. MKU beat UoN Terrorists 75- 68 as Sylvester Onyango had 26 points for the winners and Sila Awuor shot 15 for UoN. Other results: Strathmore 68 Daystar University 19; Anu 31 MKU 27; Strthmore 43 Daystar 42; MMU 16 Co-op University 26;
Courtesy of: The Star


KIU force fifth date with Falcons - by Eurobasket News

Men: KIU 72-70 Falcons (series tied at 2-2)
Women : Stormers 42-49 KCCA (KCCA win series 3-1)
Kampala International University Basketball Club is on the brink of making history if they can win their game five against record champions Falcons. KIU manage a 72-70 win over the six time champions in game four on Wednesday night at the YMCA courts in Wandegeya.
It was Salim Ali with 25 points and former Falcon Richard Osano with 19 who inspired KIU to point that might see them re-write history. Falcon's Stephen Omony who tried to match Salims performance with 24 points, 10 of which came in the third period.
Omony's teammate Philip Ameny was restricted to only 15 points who he complimented that with nine rebounds. The centre still failed to match KIU in the rebounds column as Michael Makiadi came out on top with 19 rebounds.
KIU has never been in the finals just like Uganda Christian University Canons who are also tied 2-2 with former champions Warriors.
The womens finals will for the third time running future KCCA Leopards and holders UCU Lady Canons after the former edged Magic Stormers 49-42 to win tier series 3-1.
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ch/


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

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings
 1. Saldus 7-0 
 2. RSU 7-1 
 3. VeA 6-2 
 4. ViA Riga 6-3 
 5. BK VEF-LSPA 5-1 
 6. Jelgava/LLU 5-3 
 7. Kvele 5-4 
 8. Livani 5-4 
 9. VEF skola 4-4 
 10. Liepaja-2 3-5 
 11. DSN 2-6 
 12. Ogres 2-7 
 13. Gulbene 1-5 
 14. Ridzene 1-5 
 15. Valmiera BSS 0-9 

Regular Season: Round 12

Nov. 22: Jelgava/LLU - Ogres 89-73
Nov. 23: Livani - ViA 83-89
Nov. 21: RSU - Kvele 78-59
Nov. 24: Gulbene - BK VEF-LSPA



*****************************************************
  LEBANON   

Standings - Division A

Division A Standings
 1. Sagesse 5-0 
 2. Al Riyadi 4-1 
 3. Moutahed 3-2 
 4. Byblos 3-2 
 5. Champville 3-2 
 6. Amchit 3-2 
 7. Anibal 1-4 
 8. Antranik 1-4 
 9. Bejjeh 1-4 
 10. Hoops 1-4 

Regular Season: Round 5

Nov. 21: Byblos - Champville 80-77
Nov. 22: Hoops - Moutahed 62-92
Nov. 23: Amchit - Al Riyadi 60-88
Nov. 21: Sagesse - Bejjeh 107-71
Nov. 22: Anibal - Antranik 101-96

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 24: Byblos - Sagesse
Nov. 24: Bejjeh - Anibal
Nov. 25: Moutahed - Champville
Nov. 25: Antranik - Amchit
Nov. 26: Al Riyadi - Hoops


Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Aaron HARPER
  Sagesse
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 29.8
 1. Harper, Sagesse29.8 
 2. Gray, Anibal26.5 
 3. Salyers, Moutahed25.0 
 4. Blair, Hoops24.8 
 5. Terry, Champville24.6 
 6. Khatib, Champville24.6 
 7. Sims, Sagesse24.2 
 8. Gadson, Antranik24.0 
 9. Williams, Bejjeh22.8 
 10. Chatfield, Mouta.22.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael FRASER
  Byblos
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 15
 1. Fraser, Byblos15.0 
 2. Bawji, Moutahed12.4 
 3. Johnson, Anibal12.0 
 4. Salyers, Moutahed11.6 
 5. Woods, Al Riyadi11.0 
 6. Luca, Hoops10.8 
 7. Sow, Amchit10.5 
 8. Ampim, Antranik10.4 
 9. Jones, Champville10.0 
 10. Jamison, Bejjeh9.4 
Assists Per Game
 Ahmad ISMAIL
  Al Riyadi
  (205-F/C-76)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Ismail, Al Riyadi7.7 
 2. Fahed, Moutahed6.2 
 3. Zaloum, Antranik6.0 
 4. Akl, Sagesse6.0 
 5. Blair, Hoops5.6 
 6. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi5.4 
 7. Johnson, Amchit5.2 
 8. Accaoui, Anibal5.0 
 9. Chatfield, Mouta.5.0 
 10. Gadson, Antranik4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Austin JOHNSON
  Amchit
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 4
 1. Johnson, Amchit4.0 
 2. Sow, Amchit3.5 
 3. Williams, Bejjeh3.2 
 4. Zaloum, Antranik2.4 
 5. Ismail, Al Riyadi2.3 
 6. Youngblood, Byblos2.2 
 7. Blair, Hoops2.2 
 8. Kassem, Bejjeh2.0 
 9. Harper, Sagesse2.0 
 10. Mneimneh, Byblos1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Dane JOHNSON
  Anibal
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Johnson, Anibal3.8 
 2. Jones, Champville2.5 
 3. Khazzouh, Sagesse2.0 
 4. Woods, Al Riyadi2.0 
 5. Fakhreddine, Hoops1.8 
 6. Ampim, Antranik1.8 
 7. Fraser, Byblos1.4 
 8. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.3 
 9. Terry, Champville1.2 
 10. Sabra, Byblos1.0 



*****************************************************
  LIGA SUDAMERICANA   

Standings

Liga Sudamericana Stage Two Standings
Group E
 1. Flamengo 0-0 
 2. Pinheiros/Sky 0-0 
 3. Tiburones 0-0 
 4. Uniceub/BRB 0-0 
Group F
 1. Penarol 2-1 
 2. Regatas C. 2-1 
 3. Libertad S. 1-2 
 4. Obras 1-2 
Stage One Standings

Semi-Finals: Round 7

Nov. 22: Regatas C. - Libertad S. 78-72
Nov. 22: Obras - Penarol 56-73

Semi-Finals: Round 8

Nov. 27: Flamengo - S.Jose/Unimed
Nov. 27: Pinheiros/Sky - Tiburones


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Paolo QUINTEROS
  Regat.
  (190-G/F-79)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Quinteros, Regat.20.4 
 2. Gutierrez, Obras19.5 
 3. Teague, Penarol17.5 
 4. Washam, Regatas C.15.8 
 5. Gutierrez, Penarol14.5 
 6. Osimani, Obras14.0 
 7. Campazzo, Penarol12.3 
 8. Garcia, Libertad S.12.2 
 9. Mata, Penarol11.7 
 10. Mikulas, Libertad11.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Gutierrez, Obras9.3 
 2. Teague, Penarol7.2 
 3. Kammerichs, Regat.6.8 
 4. Leiva, Penarol6.8 
 5. Mikulas, Libertad6.3 
 6. Levy, Libertad S.5.8 
 7. Washam, Regatas C.5.7 
 8. Mata, Penarol5.5 
 9. Graves, Libertad S.4.8 
 10. Espinoza, Obras4.8 
Assists Per Game
 Martin OSIMANI
  Obras
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Osimani, Obras6.2 
 2. Campazzo, Penarol5.7 
 3. Martinez, Regat.5.2 
 4. Quinteros, Regat.4.0 
 5. Treise, Libertad S.3.7 
 6. Giordana, Libertad.2.8 
 7. Konsztadt, Obras2.8 
 8. Mata, Penarol2.7 
 9. Ibarra, Penarol2.5 
 10. Garcia, Libertad2.2 
Steals Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 3
 1. Campazzo, Penarol3.0 
 2. Quinteros, Regat.2.6 
 3. Washam, Regatas C.2.3 
 4. Teague, Penarol1.8 
 5. Romano, Regatas C.1.2 
 6. Osimani, Obras1.0 
 7. Rasio, Penarol1.0 
 8. Gutierrez, Obras1.0 
 9. Espinoza, Obras1.0 
 10. Martinez, Regat.1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Martin LEIVA
  Penarol
  (209-C-80)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Leiva, Penarol1.3 
 2. Kammerichs, Regat.0.8 
 3. Gutierrez, Obras0.8 
 4. Espinoza, Obras0.8 
 5. Mata, Penarol0.7 
 6. Levy, Libertad S.0.7 
 7. Washam, Regatas C.0.5 
 8. Graves, Libertad S.0.5 
 9. Mikulas, Libertad0.3 
 10. Gerlero, Regatas0.2 


Semifinal Stage: Penarol and Regatas Corrientes advance from Group F - by Eurobasket News

Regatas C. - Libertad S. 78-72
Regatas Corrientes advanced into South American League Final stage. They overcame Libertad Sunchales in the decisive game in Group F. Paolo Quinteros (190-G/F-79) delivered 17 points to lead the winners. Regatas enjoyed a 20:15 lead after the opening quarter. Libertad however picked up the tempo in the second term. They cut the margin by four points to trail by just one at halftime 38:37. Regatas dropped 23 points in the third term to ensure an 8-point advantage into the fourth period. Libertad denied the deficit and Gabriel Mikulas (200-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) gave them a 70:69 lead midway through the final term. But back-to-back triples from Javier Martinez and Paolo Quinteros allowed Regatas to regain control and they marched to the victory at the end. Federico Kammerichs (202-F-80) provided 16 points and 12 boards, while Jerome Meyinsse added 12 points for the winners. Gabriel Mikulas answered with 18 points and 12 boards for Libertad. Ricardo Sanchez delivered 13 points in the loss.

Obras - Penarol 56-73
Penarol joined Regatas Corrientes in the South American League Final stage. They knocked down Obras Sanitarias to clinch the second qualifying spot from Group F. Leonardo Gutierrez (201-F/C-78) came up with 22 points to pace Penarol. It was rather a one-way traffic. Penarol grabbed a 26:15 lead ten minutes into the game. They stretched the gap in the second quarter. Penarol accumulated a 44:21 halftime lead. Obras tried to bounce back in the third term. They cut the deficit to 20 points with one quarter to go. But the gap proved too deep to overcome. Penarol cruised to the victory at the end. David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) provided 15 points, while Facundo Campazzo added 13 points for the winning team. Jason Forte (196-G/F-84, college: S.Mississippi) answered with 17 points for Obras. Pablo Espinoza had 9 points in the loss.


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

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings
 1. Mazeikiai 10-3 
 2. Meresta 10-4 
 3. Dzukija 9-3 
 4. Suduva-Mantinga 9-4 
 5. Statyba 9-4 
 6. Zalgiris-Sabonio 8-5 
 7. Olimpas 8-5 
 8. S.Marciulionio 8-5 
 9. Zanavykas 8-5 
 10. Triobet 7-6 
 11. Perlas-MRU 6-7 
 12. Ezerunas-Karys 6-8 
 13. Delikatesas 5-8 
 14. Nafta Universitetas 4-9 
 15. Silute 4-9 
 16. Radviliskis 3-10 
 17. Birstono 3-11 
 18. Gargzdai 1-12 

Regular Season: Round 13

Nov. 23: S.Marciulionio - Statyba 99-89
Nov. 23: Delikatesas - Olimpas 79-83
Nov. 23: Meresta - Birstono 78-70
Nov. 23: Suduva-Mantinga - Dzukija 75-86
Nov. 23: Ezerunas-Karys - Perlas-MRU 75-67
Nov. 22: Nafta Universitetas - Zalgiris-Sabonio 74-93
Nov. 23: Triobet - Silute 74-66
Nov. 23: Mazeikiai - Gargzdai 73-46
Nov. 23: Radviliskis - Zanavykas 67-81

Regular Season: Round 14

Nov. 24: Birstono - Nafta Universitetas
Nov. 24: Statyba - Radviliskis
Nov. 24: Zalgiris-Sabonio - S.Marciulionio
Nov. 24: Zanavykas - Suduva-Mantinga
Nov. 24: Dzukija - Delikatesas
Nov. 24: Olimpas - Mazeikiai
Nov. 24: Gargzdai - Triobet
Nov. 24: Silute - Ezerunas-Karys
Nov. 24: Perlas-MRU - Meresta


Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game
 Edgaras STANIONIS
  Zanav.
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 24.8
 1. Stanionis, Zanav.24.8 
 2. Maneikis, Olimpas18.9 
 3. Kleiza, Birstono17.9 
 4. Virbalas, Perla.17.4 
 5. Tarvydas, Statyba16.8 
 6. Linkevicius, Triob.16.5 
 7. Sakinis, Dzukija16.3 
 8. Pociukonis, S.Marc.16.2 
 9. Gaidamaviciu., Mer.15.9 
 10. Gudaitis, Zalgir.15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cezary TRYBANSKI
  Dzukija
  (218-C-79)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Trybanski, Dzukija10.6 
 2. Linkevicius, Triob.10.0 
 3. Udras, Perlas-MRU9.6 
 4. Virbalas, Perla.9.3 
 5. Jurgo, Radviliskis8.4 
 6. Gudaitis, Zalgir.7.9 
 7. Macernis, Mazeikiai7.8 
 8. Krestinin, S.Marc.7.5 
 9. Norkus, Nafta U.7.1 
 10. Kazakauskas, Olim.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Tomas GAIDAMAVICIUS
  Meres.
  (191-G-82)
  Avg: 8.4
 1. Gaidamaviciu., Mer.8.4 
 2. Harrison, Dzukija7.3 
 3. Zurna, Radviliskis5.6 
 4. Kuklierius, Suduva.5.1 
 5. Anuzis, Nafta U.4.9 
 6. Rakauskas, S.Marc.4.8 
 7. Razutis, Olimpas4.5 
 8. Brents, Silute4.3 
 9. Grigonis, Zalgir.4.0 
 10. Sidlauskas, Mazei.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ignas RAZUTIS
  Olimpas
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Razutis, Olimpas2.8 
 2. Macernis, Mazeikiai2.8 
 3. Kelys, Perlas-MRU2.4 
 4. Stanionis, Zanav.2.4 
 5. Harrison, Dzukija2.3 
 6. Radavicius, Meres.2.3 
 7. Matutis, Gargzdai2.2 
 8. Pelss, Zanavykas2.2 
 9. Giedraitis, Mazeik.2.2 
 10. Virbalas, Perla.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Cezary TRYBANSKI
  Dzukija
  (218-C-79)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Trybanski, Dzukija3.8 
 2. Krestinin, S.Marc.2.3 
 3. Gudaitis, Zalgir.2.0 
 4. Virbalas, Perla.1.8 
 5. Staniulis, S.Marc.1.5 
 6. Kaubrys, Silute1.5 
 7. Zvinklys, Nafta U.1.3 
 8. Macernis, Mazeikiai1.3 
 9. Tarolis, Gargzdai1.1 
 10. Petrileviciu., Bi.1.0 


Best players of Lithuanian NKL round 13 - by Eurobasket News

Edgaras Stanionis (193-G-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Zanavykas and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com NKL Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 24-year old guard got a double-double of 30 points and eleven assists, while his team beat Radviliskis (#16, 3-10) 81-67. The game was not the highest importance and did not have significant influence on the top of the standings. Zanavykas maintains the 9th position in Lithuanian NKL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Zanavykas will need more victories to improve their 8-5 record. In the team's last game Stanionis had a remarkable 61.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Zanavykas' top player in his first season with the team. Stanionis has impressive league stats. He is league's best scorer averaging so far 24.8ppg. Stanionis is in league's top in and averages solid 2.4spg and 59.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old forward Osvaldas Macernis (196-F-82) of league's best team Mazeikiai. Macernis impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 22 points and 12 rebounds. Of course he lead Mazeikiai to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Gargzdai (#18, 1-12) 73-46. This victory allowed Mazeikiai to move up to 1st position in the standings. His team has currently 10-3 record. Macernis is a newcomer at Mazeikiai and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Marius Kugauda (191-G-76) of Ezerunas-Karys (#12). Kugauda scored 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of Ezerunas-Karys, leading his team to a 75-67 win against slightly higher-ranked Perlas-MRU (#11, 6-7). The chances of Ezerunas-Karys ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Kugauda could help Ezerunas-Karys to bring them higher in the standings. Kugauda has a very solid season. In 11 games in Lithuania he scored 12.3ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tomas Rakauskas (183-G-81) of S.Marciulionio - 19 points and 10 assists
5. Arturas Gudaitis (208-C-93) of Zalgiris-Sabonio - 21 points and 11 rebounds
6. Henrikas Vorotnikovas (203-F-90) of Triobet - 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Audrius Maneikis (203-F-84) of Olimpas - 21 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Darius Tarvydas (200-F-91) of Statyba - 33 points and 9 rebounds
9. Rokas Giedraitis (198-SF-92) of Mazeikiai - 17 points and 5 rebounds
10. Giedrius Staniulis (205-C/F-91) of S.Marciulionio - 18 points and 5 rebounds

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


EuroLeague: Zalgiris back to winning ways - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris - Caja Laboral 82:45

Zalgiris recorded the sixth win in Euroleague Group C. They knocked down Caja Laboral to improve at 6-1 record on top of the ladder. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) scored 19 points to pace the hosts.
Zalgiris led from start to finish. The Lithuanian powerhouse jumped to a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. The hosts stretched the lead in the second term. Zalgiris piled up a 43:24 halftime advantage. Caja Laboral scored just 9 points in the third term to trail by as many as 26 points heading into the final stanza. Zalgiris did not slow down in the fourth quarter and coasted to the victory. Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) and Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) netted 13 points each for the winners. Fabien Causeur (193-SG-87) and Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) answered with 10 points each for Caja Laboral.

Zalgiris: Marko Popovic 19, Darjus Lavrinovic 13, Mindaugas Kuzminskas 13
Caja Laboral: Fabien Causeur 10, Andres Nocioni 10


Antanas Montrimavicius signs at Radviliskis - by Eurobasket News

KK Radviliskis-Juodeliai (NKL) landed 25-year old forward Antanas Montrimavicius (199-93kg-87). He played recently at Delikatesas (NKL). In 11 games this season he averaged 10.9ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.1spg. His team made it to the Baltic League (Challenge Cup) Semifinals.
Montrimavicius was a member of Lithuanian U16 National Team back in 2003.
He has played previously professionally in Denmark (Horsholm) and Lithuania (Silute, Olimpas, Naglis Palangos and Klaipedos LCC TU).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Silute adds Heiman to their roster - by Eurobasket News

Silute (NKL) added to their roster 26-year old American point guard Dustin Heiman (180-86, college: Abil.Christian). Heiman missed two seasons and had longer break from professional basketball. He played most recently at Neptunas (LKL). In 7 Baltic League games last season he recorded 4.0ppg and 2.4apg. He also played 16 games in LKL where he recorded 3.5ppg, 1.6rpg and 1.6apg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals. Heiman also played at Neptunas (NCAA Div.II) that season. In 7 Baltic League games last year he recorded 4.0ppg and 2.4apg. He also played 16 games in LKL where he recorded 3.5ppg, 1.6rpg and 1.6apg. Heimans team made it to the Baltic League Challenge Final Four.
He graduated from Abilene Christian University in 2011 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


NKL Round 13: Mazeikiai keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Mazeikiai as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Mazeikiai smashed 18th ranked Gargzdai-Bremena at home 73-46. Mazeikiai dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Gargzdai-Bremena's 28. Mazeikiai forced 21 Gargzdai-Bremena turnovers. Forward Osvaldas Macernis (196-82) fired a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Rokas Giedraitis (198-92) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Donatas Tarolis (201-94) produced 11 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gargzdai-Bremena lost sixth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 12 games lost. Gargzdai-Bremena will play next round against Triobet trying to get back on the winning streak. Mazeikiai will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Olimpas on the road.
Top ranked Suduva-Mantinga (9-4) recorded its fourth loss in Marijampole. Hosts were defeated by fifth ranked Dzukija (9-3) 86-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Suduva-Mantinga. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Global Sports Plaza) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Giedrius Kurtinaitis contributed with 23 points for the winners. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) answered with 20 points and 6 rebounds for Suduva-Mantinga. Suduva-Mantinga's coach Gintautas Zibuda rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Dzukija have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Suduva-Mantinga at the other side dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Statyba. Dzukija will play against Delikatesas (#13) in Joniskis in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Suduva-Mantinga will play against Zanavykas (#9) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Vilnius: S.Marciulionio (#8) and Statyba (#2). S.Marciulionio (8-5) won against visiting Statyba (9-4) 99-89. Tomas Rakauskas stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 assists for the winners. At the losing side Darius Tarvydas responded with 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. S.Marciulionio have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Statyba dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Suduva-Mantinga. S.Marciulionio will meet Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in the next round. Statyba will play against Radviliskis and hope to secure a win.

Other games of round 13 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Perlas-MRU was defeated by Ezerunas-Karys in Moletai 75-67. Meresta beat Birstono at home 78-70. Zanavykas won against Radviliskis on the opponent's court 81-67. Triobet managed to outperform Silute in a home game 74-66. Olimpas managed to beat Delikatesas on the road 83-79. Nafta Universitetas was crushed by Zalgiris-Sabonio on its own court 74-93.
The best stats of 13th round was 30 points, 11 assists and 4 steals by Edgaras Stanionis of Zanavykas.

Ezerunas-Karys - Perlas-MRU 75-67

There was a minor upset in Moletai where 11th ranked Perlas-MRU (6-7) was defeated by thirteenth ranked Ezerunas-Karys (6-8) 75-67 on Friday. Perlas-MRU was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Guard Marius Kugauda (191-76) stepped up and scored 19 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and forward Remigijus Sugintas (200-87) chipped in 11 points and 8 rebounds. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side power forward Mantas Virbalas (203-88) responded with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and forward Jonas Elvikis (195-82) scored 15 points and 4 assists. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to twelfth place. Loser Perlas-MRU keeps the eleventh position with seven games lost. Ezerunas-Karys will meet Silute (#15) on the road in the next round. Perlas-MRU will play against the league's second-placed Meresta (#2) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Perlas-MRU: J.Elvikis 15+4reb+4ast, Z.Stankus 15+3reb+2ast, Z.Kelys 14+4reb+3ast, M.Virbalas 12+10reb+2ast, A.Udras 9+9reb+1ast, D.Domarkas 2+2reb+2ast
Ezerunas-Karys: M.Kugauda 19+7reb+3ast, J.Narusis 15+2reb, R.Sugintas 11+8reb+2ast, D.Navickas 8+3reb+3ast, E.Narusis 5+6reb, K.Alekna 5+4reb+3ast
gschID: 201258


Meresta - Birstono 78-70

No shocking result in a game in Pakruojis where fifth ranked Meresta (10-4) defeated 16th ranked Birstono (3-11) 78-70 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-70. Meresta made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. Meresta outrebounded Birstono 49-28 including a 37-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guard Tomas Gaidamavicius (191-82) stepped up and scored 6 points, 13 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and center Agnius Gurklys (205-88) chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds. At the losing side Paulius Kleiza (195-88) responded with 18 points and point guard Audrius Ramonaitis (180-92) scored 18 points. Birstono's coach Marius Kiltinavicius tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Meresta have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Birstono lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventeenth position with 11 games lost. Meresta will meet Perlas-MRU (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Birstono will play against Nafta Universitetas (#14) in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Birstono: P.Kleiza 18+3reb+2ast, A.Ramonaitis 18+1reb+2ast, M.Lukminas 11+1reb+1ast, D.Sabeckis 8+1reb, D.Sabeckis 7+1reb+3ast, S.Raupys 5+3reb+1ast
Meresta: A.Gurklys 17+9reb, D.Keburys 17+8reb, I.Vaitkus 15+5reb+2ast, B.Bagdonavicius 9+2reb, L.Radavicius 8+3reb+1ast, T.Gaidamavicius 6+13reb+7ast
gschID: 201257


S.Marciulionio - Statyba 99-89

Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Vilnius: S.Marciulionio (#8) and Statyba (#2). S.Marciulionio (8-5) won against visiting Statyba (9-4) 99-89. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 32-20 charge, which allowed them to win the game. S.Marciulionio looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when S.Marciulionio made 7 blocks. Guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 assists for the winners and guard Marius Pociukonis (190-82) chipped in 21 points and 5 assists. At the losing side forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) responded with 33 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds and center Vitalijus Luksa (206-86) scored 13 points and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. S.Marciulionio have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Statyba dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Suduva-Mantinga. S.Marciulionio will meet Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in the next round. Statyba will play against Radviliskis and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Statyba: D.Tarvydas 33+9reb+1ast, G.Marciukaitis 15+1reb, K.Jonuska 14+2reb+4ast, V.Luksa 13+4reb+5ast, K.Brusokas 5+4reb, T.Zioba 4+3reb+1ast
S.Marciulionio: M.Pociukonis 21+3reb+5ast, T.Rakauskas 19+1reb+10ast, G.Staniulis 18+5reb+1ast, A.Gydra 16+5reb+4ast, T.Lekunas 12+4reb+1ast, D.Krestinin 8+9reb+1ast
gschID: 201256


Radviliskis - Zanavykas 67-81

Very expected game when 16th ranked Radviliskis (3-10) was defeated at home by ninth ranked Zanavykas (8-5) 81-67 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Zanavykas. Radviliskis managed to win third quarter 27-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zanavykas forced 19 Radviliskis turnovers. Guard Edgaras Stanionis (193-88) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 11 assists and 4 steals for the winners and center Vilius Sumskis (213-84, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Zanavykas' coach Giedrius Zibenas used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side guard Darius Gricius (195-86) responded with 13 points and 5 rebounds and guard Lukas Pipiras (192-89) scored 15 points. Zanavykas moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Radviliskis lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with ten games lost. Zanavykas will meet at home higher ranked Suduva-Mantinga (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Radviliskis will play against Statyba (#5) in Vilnius and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: L.Pipiras 15+3reb+3ast, D.Gricius 13+5reb+3ast, E.Kaupaitis 10+7reb+1ast, J.Jurgo 8+2reb, L.Kutra 8+6reb+5ast, A.Montrimavicius 7+4reb+1ast
Zanavykas: E.Stanionis 30+3reb+11ast, V.Sumskis 13+6reb, P.Parachomikas 11+3reb+1ast, L.Valantinas 8+2reb+1ast, A.Pelss 7+3reb+3ast, R.Ostreika 7+2reb
gschID: 201255


Triobet - Silute 74-66

Rather predictable result in Jonava where eleventh ranked Triobet (7-6) beat 14th ranked Silute (4-9) 74-66 on Friday. Triobet forced 24 Silute turnovers. Forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (203-90) chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds. At the losing side swingman Marius Kasiulevicius (198-82, college: Trinity Valley JC) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds and center Arturas Kaubrys (205-83) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Triobet moved-up to tenth place. Loser Silute keeps the fourteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Nafta Universitetas. Triobet will meet bottom-ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (#18) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Silute will play against Ezerunas-Karys (#12) in Moletai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Silute: A.Kaubrys 16+12reb, M.Kasiulevicius 13+13reb+3ast, V.Pancerevas 12+6reb+1ast, D.Heiman 11+2reb+2ast, E.Saulys 7+2reb, G.Pakalniskis 4+5reb
Triobet: M.Linkevicius 18+13reb+2ast, V.Kruzikas 17+4reb+1ast, A.Lencevicius 11+3reb+2ast, H.Vorotnikovas 10+11reb+2ast, T.Milinskas 8+4reb, A.Urbonas 6+1reb+2ast
gschID: 201259


Suduva-Mantinga - Dzukija 75-86

Top ranked Suduva-Mantinga (9-4) recorded its fourth loss in Marijampole. Hosts were defeated by fifth ranked Dzukija (9-3) 86-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Suduva-Mantinga. They outrebounded Suduva-Mantinga 36-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. Dzukija shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 55.6 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Global Sports Plaza) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Giedrius Kurtinaitis (193-86) contributed with 23 points for the winners. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) answered with 20 points and 6 rebounds and guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) added 11 points and 7 assists in the effort for Suduva-Mantinga. Five Dzukija and four Suduva-Mantinga players scored in double figures. Suduva-Mantinga's coach Gintautas Zibuda rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Dzukija have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Suduva-Mantinga at the other side dropped to the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Statyba. Dzukija will play against Delikatesas (#13) in Joniskis in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Suduva-Mantinga will play against Zanavykas (#9) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Suduva-Mantinga: M.Kalvelis 20+6reb, A.Zibuda 14+1ast, Z.Kuklierius 11+4reb+7ast, A.Mineikis 10+6reb+1ast, K.Pupinis 6+4reb+3ast, A.Cizikas 5
Dzukija: G.Kurtinaitis 23+2reb+2ast, B.Harrison 18+7reb+4ast, T.Skripkauskas 14+4reb+1ast, C.Trybanski 12+10reb, M.Reminas 10+5reb+9ast, P.Sakinis 9+2reb+1ast
gschID: 201262


Delikatesas - Olimpas 79-83

Not a big story in a game in Joniskis where 12th ranked Delikatesas (5-8) was defeated by seventh ranked Olimpas (8-5) 83-79 on Friday. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 44-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Olimpas forced 23 Delikatesas turnovers. Forward Audrius Maneikis (203-84, college: Motlow St. CC) stepped up and scored 21 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) chipped in 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. At the losing side swingman Zilvinas Petraitis (194-88) responded with 18 points and 5 assists and swingman Mantas Pukinskas (198-89) scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Olimpas moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Delikatesas lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the thirteenth position with eight games lost. Olimpas will meet at home league's leader Mazeikiai in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Delikatesas will play against Dzukija (#3) in Alytus and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: Z.Petraitis 18+3reb+5ast, M.Pukinskas 17+7reb+1ast, A.Kvedaravicius 14+4reb+3ast, E.Vaupsas 10+4reb, P.Klemas 9+2reb+3ast, M.Keras 5+4reb
Olimpas: A.Maneikis 21+8reb+5ast, I.Razutis 20+8reb+4ast, M.Kazonas 16+7reb+1ast, E.Gintvainis 10+1reb+4ast, T.Domarkas 8+3reb+1ast, E.Jocys 3+1reb
gschID: 201261


Mazeikiai - Gargzdai 73-46

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Mazeikiai as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Mazeikiai smashed 18th ranked Gargzdai-Bremena at home 73-46. Mazeikiai dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Gargzdai-Bremena's 28. Mazeikiai forced 21 Gargzdai-Bremena turnovers. Forward Osvaldas Macernis (196-82) fired a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Rokas Giedraitis (198-92) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Donatas Tarolis (201-94) produced 11 points and 9 rebounds and guard Mantas Martinkus (186-91) added 10 points respectively for lost side. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gargzdai-Bremena lost sixth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 12 games lost. Gargzdai-Bremena will play next round against Triobet trying to get back on the winning streak. Mazeikiai will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Olimpas on the road.
Top scorers:
Gargzdai: D.Tarolis 11+9reb, M.Martinkus 10+3reb+1ast, D.Matutis 8+2reb+4ast, M.Grigaitis 6+3reb, L.Jonuska 4+5reb, R.Zabita 4+3reb
Mazeikiai: O.Macernis 22+12reb, R.Giedraitis 17+5reb+1ast, A.Kojenets 14+5reb+1ast, A.Mikutis 6+6reb+2ast, V.Pikalavicius 5+7reb, M.Sidlauskas 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 201260


Nafta Universitetas - Zalgiris-Sabonio 74-93

Everything went according to plan in Klaipeda where sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (8-5) outleveled 14th ranked Nafta Universitetas (4-9) 93-74 on Thursday. Zalgiris-Sabonio made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Center Arturas Gudaitis (208-93) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) for the winners and point guard Vaidas Kariniauskas (200-93) chipped in 12 points and 6 assists. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side forward Donatas Norkus (196-90) responded with 16 points and 7 rebounds and forward Viktoras Chodosovskis (200-89) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains sixth place with 8-5 record, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Nafta Universitetas keeps the fourteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Silute. Zalgiris-Sabonio will meet at home S.Marciulionio (#8) in the next round. Nafta Universitetas will play against Birstono (#17) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: D.Norkus 16+7reb, V.Chodosovskis 14+5reb+1ast, D.Zvinklys 12+6reb+1ast, H.Venskus 10+3reb+4ast, T.Mazelis 9+1ast, D.Anuzis 6+4reb+2ast
Zalgiris-Sabonio: A.Gudaitis 21+11reb+1ast, J.Tamulis 14+3reb+1ast, V.Kariniauskas 12+3reb+6ast, L.Lekavicius 11+3reb+1ast, P.Sorokas 10+5reb+4ast, T.Dimsa 9+3reb
gschID: 201254



*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


Soleuvre release Pelham - by Eurobasket News

AS Soleuvre (Diekirch League) released 25-year old American forward Torye Pelham (198-102kg-87, college: S.Mississippi). In 9 Diekirch League games he played this season he averaged impressive 17.9ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.4apg and 1.1spg.
Pelham just graduated from University of Southern Mississippi and it is his first season in pro basketball. His team was regular season runner-up in C-USA.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Soleuvre signs Chehales Tapscott - by Eurobasket News

AS Soleuvre (Diekirch League) signed 22-year old American forward Chehales Tapscott (195-90, college: Portland State). He played last summer at S. Soldiers (IBL) in the U.S.. A very impressive season as he was voted USBasket.com All-IBL Rookie of the Year and named to 1st Team.
Tapscott just graduated from Portland State and it will be his first season as a pro. His team made it to the Big Sky Conference Tournament Semifinals.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings
 1. Halc.Xalapa 23-2 
 2. Soles 20-5 
 3. Toros 19-6 
 4. Halc.Rojos 19-6 
 5. Pioneros 18-7 
 6. Panteras 17-8 
 7. Fuerza Regia 14-10 
 8. Abejas 13-12 
 9. Huracanes 12-11 
 10. Barreteros 11-14 
 11. Corr.Victoria 9-16 
 12. Guerreros 7-18 
 13. Lechugueros 6-18 
 14. Osos 4-21 
 15. Gansos 4-21 
 16. Gigantes 2-23 

Regular Season: Round 25

Nov. 22: Halc.Xalapa - Toros 99-95 OT
Nov. 22: Huracanes - Gigantes 91-47
Nov. 22: Barreteros - Pioneros 76-86
Nov. 22: Halc.Rojos - Fuerza Regia 75-84
Nov. 22: Corr.Victoria - Osos 108-83
Nov. 22: Panteras - Soles 108-101
Nov. 22: Abejas - Guerreros 107-91
Nov. 23: Lechugueros - Gansos



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


Nikola Vucevic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Montenegrins playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

Here is the weekly review of the top performing Montenegrin players, who play currently abroad.

Nikola Vucevic
Nikola Vucevic
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Nikola Vucevic (210-90, college: USC, currently plays in NBA). He led Orlando Magic to a victory against the Detroit Pistons (2-10) 110-106 in the NBA in Friday night's game. Vucevic had a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 3 assists and 2 blocks in 28 minutes on the court. The Orlando Magic has 4-7 record this season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Vucevic's first year with the team. Vucevic has relatively good stats this season: 10.2ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 46.7% and FT: 70.6% in the 11 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Montenegrin senior national team.

Vladimir Dragicevic
Vladimir Dragicevic
   #2. Second place goes to an international power forward Vladimir Dragicevic (206-86, currently plays in Eurocup). Dragicevic was the major contributor in a Spartak St.Petersburg's victory against the closely-ranked ratiopharm Ulm (2-1) 89-71 in the Eurocup last Wednesday. He scored 17 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Spartak St.Petersburg (3-0) is placed first in the Eurocup. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This season Dragicevic has relatively solid stats: 10.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 64.3% and FT: 75.0%. He is in the roster of the Montenegrin senior national team.

Bojan Dubljevic
Bojan Dubljevic
   #3. The Montenegrin player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Bojan Dubljevic (205-91, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in Eurocup). Dubljevic contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked s Oliver Baskets (1-2) crushing them 97-64 in the Eurocup on Tuesday night. He scored 18 points in a mere 18 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Valencia Basket (3-0) is placed first in the Eurocup. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Dubljevic has reliable stats this year: 11.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 2FGP: 52.4% in the three games. He is also a member of the Montenegrin senior national team.

Nemanja Radovic
Nemanja Radovic
   #4. Power forward Nemanja Radovic (206-91, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in Serbia) contributed to Vrsac's victory against the 14th-ranked Sloga (1-7) 95-81 in the Serbian A League on Sunday night. He scored 22 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists. KK Vrsac (6-2) is placed third in the A League. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. It's Radovic's first year with the team. Radovic is currently sixth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (third place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Radovic averages: 15.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.4apg and 1.4bpg. He used to play for the Montenegrin U20 national team last year.

Nikola Pekovic
Nikola Pekovic
   #5. International center Nikola Pekovic (209-86, another player represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in NBA), who plays in the NBA could not help the Minnesota Timberwolves (5-5) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his good performance the Minnesota Timberwolves were defeated 101-94 on the road by the Denver Nuggets. Pekovic scored 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. This season Pekovic has very high stats. He averages: 14.6ppg and 6.1rpg. Pekovic plays currently for the Montenegrin national team.

Suad Sehovic
Suad Sehovic
   #6. Swingman Suad Sehovic (196-87, currently plays in EuroChallenge) was not able to help Khimik (2-1) in their game against Gaz Metan (3-0) in the EuroChallenge, despite his very good performance on Tuesday night. He scored 16 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 34 minutes. But the second-placed Khimik was edged 88-86 in Medias by the leading Gaz Metan in the group D of EuroChallenge. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Sehovic's stats this year are: 10.7ppg, 5.7rpg and 1.3apg in the three games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Montenegrin National Team roster.

Goran Martinic
Goran Martinic
   #7. Former U21 international point guard Goran Martinic (184-87, agency: BeoExcell, currently plays in Romania) led CSM Bucuresti to a victory over the closely-ranked Targu Mures (6-2) 93-75 in the Romanian Division A last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Martinic scored 24 points, made 8 passes and 3 steals (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) in 37 minutes. CS Municipal Bucuresti (6-2) is placed fourth in the Division A. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Martinic is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his sixth year in CSM Bucuresti's roster. He is the league's top scorer and also on the list of most steals (fifth place). Martinic has very impressive stats this year: 24.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.1apg and 2.0spg in the eight games. He used to play for the Montenegrin U21 national team five years ago.

Ivan Ivanovic
Ivan Ivanovic
   #8. Forward Ivan Ivanovic (205-80, currently plays in EuroChallenge) faced previously mentioned Suad Sehovic in the EuroChallenge last game. Ivanovic contributed to a 2-point Gaz Metan's victory against the closely-ranked Khimik (2-1) 88-86. He scored 17 points. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. Ivanovic's overall stats this season are: 9.3ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.7apg. He used to play for the Montenegrin national team back in 2008.

Marko Todorovic
Marko Todorovic
   #9. U21 international power forward Marko Todorovic (210-92, currently plays in Euroleague) managed to help Regal FC Barcelona to win against the fourth-ranked Brose Baskets Bamberg (2-5) crushing them 86-66 in the Euroleague last Thursday. Todorovic scored 5 points. Regal FC Barcelona (7-0) is placed first in group D. So far his team won all seven games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. It's Todorovic's first season with the team. His overall stats this year are: 1.5ppg and 1.2rpg. Todorovic is also in the roster of the Montenegrin U21 national team.

Filip Barovic
Filip Barovic
   #10. Power forward Filip Barovic (208-90, currently plays in Hungary) contributed to an easy victory against the ninth-ranked Szedeak (3-5) crushing them 102-76 in the Hungarian A Division on Sunday night. Barovic recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 15 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks and 3 steals. Kis-Raba menti Takarek Soproni KC (5-3) is placed fifth in the A Division. Barovic is currently seventh on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (third place). This season he has very high stats. Barovic averages: 20.8ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg and 1.3spg. He is a former U20 international player as two years ago he still played for the Montenegrin national team.

   #11. Former U21 international power forward Igor Bijelic (207-88, currently plays in Bosnia) contributed to an easy victory against the 12th-ranked Posusje crushing them 84-53 in the Bosnia and Herzegovina Division I in Saturday night's game. Bijelic scored 17 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 31 minutes. Bijelic is ranked second on the list of the best blockers in the league with 1.2bpg. He also averaged so far 17.4ppg and 6.6rpg in the five games. Bijelic used to play for the Montenegrin U21 national team five years ago.

   #12. International power forward Vladimir Dasic (208-88, currently plays in Euroleague) was not able to secure a victory for Besiktas in their game against Partizan in the Euroleague. He scored 8 points. His team was defeated 87-72. Dasic's overall stats this season are: 5.3ppg and 2.0rpg. He is also in the roster of the Montenegrin national team.

   #13. International swingman Sead Sehovic (196-89, currently plays in EuroChallenge) contributed to Szolnok's victory against the closely-ranked Timisoara 93-80 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. Sehovic scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 27 minutes. This year his overall stats are: 9.3ppg, 3.7rpg and 2.0apg in the three games. Sehovic is also Montenegrin national team player.

   #14. Former international forward Zarko Rakocevic (204-84, agency: Interperformances, currently plays in Austria) couldn't help BC Vienna in their game against Gmunden Swans in the Austrian A Bundesliga. Despite his very good performance on Sunday night He was the top scorer with 16 points. Rakocevic also added 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Rakocevic is ranked first on the list of the best blockers in the league. This season he has very high stats. Rakocevic averages: 15.9ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.6apg and 1.3bpg. He used to play for the Montenegrin national team back in 2009.

   #15. U20 international forward Marko Loncovic (200-91, currently plays in Portugal) couldn't help Barcelos in their game against CAB Madeira in the Portuguese LPB. Despite his very good performance last Saturday Loncovic recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and getting 16 rebounds. Loncovic belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #2) and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). This season he has very high stats. Loncovic averages: 19.0ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.2apg and 2.6spg. He used to play for the Montenegrin U20 national team last year.

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

   #1. Brion Rush (186-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Grambling St., currently plays in Euroleague), who plays in France could not help Chalon/Saor (2-5) in their last game on Thursday. Despite Rush's very good performance the fifth-placed Chalon/Saor was defeated 87-82 on the road by the higher-ranked ALBA Berlin (#4) in the group B of Euroleague. He was the second best scorer with 21 points. Rush also added 6 rebounds. There are only three games left until the end of the Euroleague Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Rush's stats this season are: 13.4ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.1spg. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Rush has never played in Montenegro.

   #2. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91, currently plays in Spain) contributed to a Real Madrid's victory against the league outsider Assignia Manresa (0-8) 97-84 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He scored 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 23 minutes. Real Madrid (8-0) is placed first in the ACB. So far his team won all eight games in the Regular Season. But the season just started, so everything may happen. Mirotic is currently seventh on the list of top scorers with 14.4ppg. This year he also averages: 6.3rpg and 1.1bpg in the eight games he played so far. Mirotic has a dual citizenship: Montenegrin and Spanish. Despite his Montenegrin passport, Mirotic currently plays for the Spanish U20 national team and is not eligible to play for the Montenegrin team.

   #3. Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in Belgium), who plays in the Belgian Ethias League was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Base Oostende (4-3) in their last game. Despite Djordjevic's very good performance Base Oostende lost 89-95 in Aalst to the leading Okapi ar. He was the top scorer with 18 points. Djordjevic also added 5 rebounds, 5 assists and made 2 blocks in 27 minutes. It was Base Oostende's first loss after three consecutive victories. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. Djordjevic is currently third on the league's list of best passers with 4.5apg. He also averaged so far 7.8ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.3spg in the six games. Djordjevic is another player who holds two passports: Serbian and Montenegrin.

   #4. Bojan Subotic (203-F-90, currently plays in Eurocup) led his Serbian team Zvezda to a victory against the closely-ranked Banco di Sardegna Sassari (1-2) 116-104 in the Eurocup in Wednesday night's game. Subotic scored 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Crvena Zvezda DIVA Beograd (3-0) is placed first in the Eurocup. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Regular Season. Subotic's overall stats this season are: 8.7ppg and 6.0rpg.

   #5. Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances, currently plays in Georgia) helped Olimpi win their game against the ninth-ranked Samedicino-Academia (0-4) crushing them 106-63 in a derby game in the Georgian Superleague in Saturday night's game. Milosevic had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 12 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks in 27 minutes. Olimpi Tbilisi (4-0) is placed third in the Superleague. So far his team won all four games in the Regular Season. Milosevic is currently first on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). He has very reliable stats this year: 14.5ppg, 12.8rpg and 1.3apg in the four games.

   #6. Radomir Marojevic (207-C-81, currently plays in Serbia) led Vojvodina to a 2-point victory over the eighth-ranked Metalac 75-73 in the Serbian A League on Saturday night. He was the best player in that game. Marojevic scored 13 points in a mere 15 minutes. This year his overall stats are: 7.5ppg and 2.1rpg in the eight games.

   #7. Mensud Julevic (200-PF-85, currently plays in Slovenia), who plays in the Slovenian Telemach League was not able to secure a victory for Elektra (3-2) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Julevic's very good performance Elektra was edged 76-73 in Domzale by the higher-ranked Helios (#3). He was the second best scorer with 15 points. Julevic also added 6 rebounds. He averaged so far 13.8ppg, 6.3rpg and 1.5apg. Julevic has both Montenegrin and Slovenian nationalities. Despite his Montenegrin passport, Julevic previously played for the Slovenian U21 national team and probably cannot be called to the Montenegrin team.

   #8. Goran Bulatovic (184-G-88, currently plays in Slovakia), who plays in the Slovakian Extraliga couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Inter Bratislava (5-4) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Inter Bratislava was edged 89-88 at home by the higher-ranked (#3) Nitra. Bulatovic was the top scorer with 25 points. He also added 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 steals in 35 minutes. Bulatovic belongs to league's best passers (ranked #4) and also on the list of most steals (fifth place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg and 1.8spg in the eight games.

   #9. Vasilije Seferovic (193-G/F-85, currently plays in Serbia) was the major contributor in a 2-point KK Jagodina's victory against the closely-ranked Smederevo Vizura 71-69 in the Serbian A League last Saturday. He scored 20 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Seferovic is ranked fifth on the list of the top scorers in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Seferovic averages: 16.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.0apg and 1.3spg.

   #10. Petar Despotovic (194-G-88, agency: Alti Sport, currently plays in Serbia) led Konstantin to a victory over the 12th-ranked BKK Radnicki crushing them 70-50 in the Serbian A League on Saturday night. He was the best player in that game. Despotovic scored 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 30 minutes. He averaged so far 11.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.4apg and 1.5spg in the eight games. Despotovic also holds two passports: Montenegrin and Serbian. Despite his Montenegrin nationality, Despotovic previously played for the Serbian university national team.


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

Standings

NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. New York K. 8-3 
 2. Brooklyn N. 7-4 
 3. Philadelph.76 7-5 
 4. Boston C. 7-6 
 5. Toronto R. 3-10 
Central Div.
 1. Milwaukee B. 6-4 
 2. Indiana P. 6-8 
 3. Chicago B. 5-6 
 4. Cleveland C. 3-9 
 5. Detroit P. 3-10 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 9-3 
 2. Atlanta H. 7-4 
 3. Charlotte B. 6-5 
 4. Orlando M. 5-7 
 5. Washington W. 0-10 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 9-4 
 2. Denver N. 7-6 
 3. Utah Jazz 7-6 
 4. Portland TB 6-6 
 5. Minnesota T. 5-6 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Clippers 8-4 
 2. Golden St.W. 7-6 
 3. LA Lakers 6-7 
 4. Phoenix Suns 6-7 
 5. Sacramento K. 3-9 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 10-3 
 2. Memphis G. 9-2 
 3. Dallas M. 7-6 
 4. Houston R. 6-7 
 5. N.Orleans H. 3-8 

Regular Season: Round 24

Nov. 23: Indiana P. - San Antonio S. 97-104
Nov. 23: Detroit P. - Toronto R. 91-90
Nov. 23: Charlotte B. - Atlanta H. 91-101
Nov. 23: Brooklyn N. - LA Clippers 86-76
Nov. 23: Houston R. - New York K. 131-103
Nov. 23: Phoenix Suns - N.Orleans H. 111-108 OT
Nov. 23: Orlando M. - Cleveland C. 108-104
Nov. 23: Boston C. - Oklah.City T. 108-100
Nov. 23: Memphis G. - LA Lakers 106-98
Nov. 23: Utah Jazz - Sacramento K. 104-102
Nov. 23: Portland TB - Minnesota T. 103-95
Nov. 23: Denver N. - Golden St.W. 102-91

Regular Season: Round 25

Nov. 24: Philadelph.76 - Oklah.City T.
Nov. 24: Washington W. - Charlotte B.
Nov. 24: Atlanta H. - LA Clippers
Nov. 24: Miami Heat - Cleveland C.
Nov. 24: Dallas M. - LA Lakers
Nov. 24: Milwaukee B. - Chicago B.
Nov. 24: Sacramento K. - Utah Jazz
Nov. 24: Golden St.W. - Minnesota T.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-SG-78)
  Avg: 27.5
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers27.5 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.25.7 
 3. Anthony, New Y.25.3 
 4. Harden, Houston R.25.2 
 5. James, Miami Heat24.8 
 6. Irving, Cleveland22.9 
 7. Mayo, Dallas M.22.2 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..21.2 
 9. Ellis, Milwaukee B.20.2 
 10. Lillard, Portland.20.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anderson VAREJAO
  Clevelan.
  (205-C-82)
  Avg: 14
 1. Varejao, Clevelan.14.0 
 2. Randolph, Memph.13.6 
 3. Asik, Houston R.11.9 
 4. Jefferson, Utah J.11.7 
 5. Faried, Denver N.11.5 
 6. Lee, Golden St.W.11.1 
 7. Howard, LA Lakers10.9 
 8. Duncan, San A.10.9 
 9. Hickson, Portland.10.8 
 10. Monroe, Detroit P.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 13.4
 1. Rondo, Boston C.13.4 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers9.8 
 3. Vasquez, N.Orlean.9.0 
 4. Holiday, Philadel.8.6 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..8.4 
 6. Williams, Brooklyn8.2 
 7. Parker, San A.7.8 
 8. Calderon, Toron.7.8 
 9. Jennings, Milwauke.7.5 
 10. Lawson, Denver N.7.5 
Steals Per Game
 Brandon JENNINGS
  Milwauke.
  (183-PG-89)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Jennings, Milwauke.3.3 
 2. Walker, Charlott.2.4 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers2.3 
 4. Conley, Memphis G.2.2 
 5. Dragic, Phoenix2.2 
 6. Ariza, Washingt.2.2 
 7. Lawson, Denver N.2.1 
 8. Kidd, New York K.2.0 
 9. Leonard, San A.2.0 
 10. Matthews, Portlan.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.3 
 2. Hibbert, Indiana P.3.1 
 3. Howard, LA Lakers2.8 
 4. Gortat, Phoenix2.5 
 5. Lopez, Brooklyn N.2.5 
 6. Noah, Chicago B.2.2 
 7. Duncan, San A.2.2 
 8. Jordan, LA Clippers2.2 
 9. Favors, Utah Jazz2.2 
 10. Smith, Atlanta H.2.1 


NBA back to action with 12 games on Friday - by Eurobasket News

Portland TB - Minnesota T. 103-95
Wesley Matthews (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette) scored 30 points, rookie Damian Lillard (6'2''-PG-90, college: Weber St.) had a career-high 28 points and eight assists and the Portland Trail Blazers beat Minnesota 103-95 on Friday night to send the Timberwolves to their fourth straight loss. J.J. Hickson returned from a shoulder injury and had 14 points and 13 rebounds for Portland, which has won four of its last five games. LaMarcus Aldridge scored 13 despite missing stretches of the game due to foul trouble. Matthews made five of the Blazers' 11 3s. Kevin Love (6'10''-PF-88, college: UCLA) had 24 points and 13 rebounds in his second game back for Minnesota, which is 1-5 after winning three of its first four this season. Nikola Pekovic had 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Luke Ridnour added 14 points. Portland put together a 13-0 run that started at the end of the third quarter and carried over into the fourth, resulting in an 88-78 lead. Matthews' 3-pointer with 6:16 remaining extended the advantage to 95-84. The first matchup of the season between the teams was highly anticipated on several fronts. It was supposed to mark a Portland homecoming for former Blazers star Brandon Roy, who came out of retirement to join the Wolves this season but is out after having knee surgery Monday. Love is still popular in Portland, where he grew up and attended high school. And Minnesota general manager David Kahn, coach Rick Adelman and much of Adelman's staff have strong ties to the city. Kahn signed Portland's Nicolas Batum to an offer sheet in the offseason, forcing the Blazers to match the four-year, $44 million contract to keep the fifth-year Frenchman. Batum finished with nine points and five assists, shooting just 3 of 10 from the field. Love made his season debut in a 101-94 loss against Denver on Wednesday, coming back early after breaking his right hand doing pushups Oct. 18. He had 34 points and 14 rebounds against the Nuggets. Portland had won three straight before it lost 114-87 at Phoenix on Wednesday night. The Blazers committed 22 turnovers in what was arguably the team's worst performance of the season. They had just 12 turnovers on Friday. Minnesota led 41-28 after starting off the second quarter with an 8-0 run and carried a 55-50 advantage into the break. But Portland pulled ahead 71-69 late in the third quarter. Courtesy of: miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - N.Orleans H. 111-108 OT
Markieff Morris (6'10''-F-89, college: Kansas) scored a career-high 23 points, including a 3-pointer in overtime, and the Phoenix Suns overcame a 19-point third-quarter deficit to hand the New Orleans Hornets their sixth straight loss, 111-108 on Friday night. Goran Dragic (6'3''-PG-86) scored 20 points, 12 in the final 6 1/2 minutes of the third quarter, for Phoenix. New Orleans got career performances from Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) and Greivis Vasquez. Anderson scored a career-high 34 points, hitting 8 of 13 3s. Vaszuez had 25 points and 14 assists, both career bests. After blowing their big lead, the Hornets forced overtime by scoring the final eight points of regulation. P.J. Tucker had 15 points for Phoenix, also a career best. Jermaine O'Neal had 13 points and 11 rebounds for the Suns. The Suns, down 74-55 after Vasquez's 16-footer with 5:45 left in the third quarter, outscored New Orleans 39-9 and led 94-83 on Luis Scola's 8-foot hook shot with 6:37 left in the fourth quarter. Dragic led the comeback with three late third-quarter 3s. Tucker's 3-pointer at the third-quarter buzzer cut New Orleans' lead to 81-77 and started what turned out to be a 15-0 run as the Suns reserves scored the first dozen points of the fourth quarter. Jared Dudley's 3-pointer gave the Suns their first lead of the night at 82-81. Jermaine O'Neal's 5-footer put Phoenix up 86-85 with 5:49 to play and, after New Orleans cut the lead to three, Dudley's third 3-pointer of the quarter had the Suns up 103-95 with 1:37 to play. But Anderson, whose 9 3-pointers also were a career best, sank a step-back 28-footer, former Sun Robin Lopez made a 14-foot shot and Vasquez made his only 3 of the night to tie it at 103-103 with 17.8 seconds left. Dudley misfired at the end of regulation. Dragic's high-arching 18-footer put the Suns up for good in overtime, then Morris' 3-pointer made it 108-103. Anderson's 22-footer from just inside the 3-point line cut the lead to 108-105. Tucker sank a pair of free throws, but Roger Mason made a 3-pointer to cut it to 110-108 with 1.4 seconds to go. Morris gave the Hornets one last chance by missing one of two free throws, but Mason could only toss up an air ball under pressure at the buzzer. Anderson had 25 points in the second half and overtime, 14 of them as New Orleans blew open the big lead in the third quarter. He made 1 of 3 3-pointers in the first half, 7 of 10 after that. Courtesy of: abc15.com

Utah Jazz - Sacramento K. 104-102
Gordon Hayward (6'9''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Butler) scored 23 points, including the winning basket with 4.5 seconds left, and the Utah Jazz rallied to beat the Sacramento Kings 104-102 on Friday night. James Johnson's running jumper at the buzzer bounced harmlessly off the rim as the Jazz (7-6) stayed perfect at home. Hayward scored 10 in the fourth quarter. Tyreke Evans (6'6''-PG-89, college: Memphis) led Sacramento (3-9) with 19 points and reserve Marcus Thornton added 18, including 13 in the wild final period. Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) added 20 points for Utah. Al Jefferson had 17 and Derrick Favors contributed 16 points, 14 rebounds and a pair of blocked shots. The Kings led 92-79 with 8 1/2 minutes left until Hayward, Williams, Jamaal Tinsley and Jefferson fueled the comeback. Jefferson's putback gave Utah a 102-99 lead but Thornton tied it with a 3-pointer. Tinsley's late steal set up Hayward for the winner. Sacramento led by 13 with 10 minutes to play. Thornton made a 3 then converted a three-point play during one key stretch for the Kings. And they were still up 12 after Thornton's short jumper with 6:30 remaining. Reserve DeMarre Carroll scored on a fast-break layup for Utah, which continued its comeback at the free-throw line. The Jazz made 29 of 33 foul shots for the night, compared to 12 of 16 for the Kings. Hayward's free throws got Utah within five with four minutes to play, and Williams' long jumper cut the Kings' lead to 97-94. He made two more free throws to get Utah within one. Tinsley, playing for injured point guard Mo Williams, put Utah ahead with two more free throws with 2:11 left and the Kings came up empty on consecutive possessions. Jefferson's free throws after being fouled going for an offensive rebound gave Utah a 102-99 advantage with 58 seconds left. After Thornton's 3, Tinsley missed at the other end with 32 seconds left but he stole the ball back from Aaron Brooks with 15 seconds remaining, giving the Jazz a chance to win it. Hayward drained it from the top of the key. He was 7 for 17 from the field, but made all nine of his foul shots. The rally spoiled another homecoming for former Brigham Young star Jimmer Fredette, who was making his third professional visit to Utah. Fredette hit three 3-pointers and finished with 10 points. DeMarcus Cousins started slowly and finished with 14 points for the Kings, who were hoping to make it two straight after beating the Lakers on Wednesday. But they couldn't deal with Utah's pressure defense at the end or the disparity at the line. Courtesy of: utsandiego.com

Denver N. - Golden St.W. 102-91
The Warriors have prided themselves on being gritty. They've often praised themselves for staying close instead of caving like the Warriors of the past. But Friday's performance in Denver looked more like the old Golden State than the scrappy squad that won seven of the first 12. The Warriors lost 102-91 to the Nuggets. But it looked worse than the score might indicate. Instead of getting revenge on the team that handed them a heartbreaking double-overtime loss at Oracle Arena on Nov. 10, the Warriors got spanked. "Needless to say, especially after our last game against them, they're not our favorite team," forward David Lee said of the Nuggets after he finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds. The Warriors (7-6), who host Minnesota on Saturday, were outscored by 17 in the second half. They looked downright silly much of the fourth quarter, thanks to unforced errors and defensive lapses that led to highlights by Denver swingman Andre Iguodala (6'6''-SF-84, college: Arizona) and center Javale McGee (7'0''-C-88, college: Nevada). The Warriors shot 36.8 percent in the second half and went down without much resistance, which had been unusual for this Golden State squad. "The third quarter," coach Mark Jackson said, "we didn't match their intensity, we didn't take care of the basketball, we were not committed to getting back in transition. I'm disappointed we came out of the locker room in the third quarter. And it snowballed from there." Golden State all but played without point guard Stephen Curry, who logged just 26 minutes because of fouls and ineffective play. After leading the Warriors to consecutive noteworthy victories (at Dallas and over visiting Brooklyn) earlier this week, Curry finished with six points and four turnovers. "I was kind of back-and-forth off the bench in the first half," Curry said. "But that's no excuse. I've got to be more aggressive, whether I'm shooting or making plays." His teammates picked up the slack in the first half. But in the second half, not so much. The Warriors led 53-47 at halftime despite point Curry not even taking shot and playing just 13 minutes because of foul trouble. How did Golden State do it? Guard Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90, college: Washington St.) got hot, knocking down four 3-pointers en route to 16 first-half points. Lee was giving the Warriors an inside presence, knocking down half of his 12 shots. Whatever momentum the Warriors had entering the locker room with a lead was gone quickly after they emerged. "I think, ultimately, we were fortunate to be up at halftime," Jackson said. "To me it was fool's gold. They outplayed us, but we had the lead. And we didn't respond in the third quarter. Simple as that." The Nuggets took control of the game with a 15-0 run to start the third quarter. Golden State seemed content with jump shots early in the second half. Five of the Warriors' first six shots of the third quarter were jumpers, including three straight 3-point attempts. By the time Nuggets swingman Andre Iguodala hit a corner 3-pointer -- after having time to set his feet and recite a sonnet -- the Warriors were down 57-53 with 9:13 left in the third. Jackson punched the air in frustration, calling a timeout. Golden State's next four possessions resulted in three missed shots and a turnover. Another Iguodala 3-pointer put the Warriors down 62-53. With the Warriors ice cold from outside, they turned to Carl Landry, who helped settle things. He scored three straight baskets inside to keep Denver from running away with the game, the latter cutting Denver's lead to 68-63 with 4:44 left. Landry finished with 19 points off the bench. The Warriors trailed 78-70 entering third quarter. Golden State still trailed by eight two minutes into the fourth quarter. But Denver turned it into a rout with a 9-0 run. The spurt was highlighted by a thunderous dunk by McGee, and the foul, then a driving tomahawk by Iguodala, who finished with a game-high 29 points. At the six-minute mark, the embarrassment reached its peak. Iguodala was inbounding the ball under Denver's basket. With a move that encapsulated the second half, he threw the ball off the back of an unaware Lee and stepped in for an uncontested two-hand dunk. "They earned the right to throw lobs and celebrate," Jackson said. "Who am I to criticize? I've been part of the dance team (in my playing days). But it's got to bother you to the point where you make adjustments, and we did not." Courtesy of: mercurynews.com

Houston R. - New York K. 131-103
James Harden (6'5''-SG-89, college: Arizona St.) scored 33 points, and Chandler Parsons (6'9''-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida) had a career-high 31 to help the Houston Rockets coast to a 131-103 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night. Jeremy Lin added 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists for Houston in the first game against his former team. The Rockets entered the third quarter up by 12, and scored 10 straight points later in the quarter to extend their lead to 21. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-SF-84, college: Syracuse) scored a season-high 37 for New York, which dropped consecutive games for the first time this season. Lin went undrafted out of Harvard and became a sensation with the Knicks last season with a remarkable stretch in February where he scored at least 20 points in nine of 10 games. A high point of that span came when he had 38 points and seven assists in a 92-85 victory over the Lakers on Feb. 10. The Rockets released Lin before he signed with New York. Lin became a Rocket again when the Knicks didn't match Houston's three-year, $25 million offer. Lin said before the game that his time with the Knicks was: "The most fun I've ever had playing basketball, in that little stretch. I'll always remember that." But he said he's "at peace" with the Knicks not matching Houston's offer, and he's glad to be in Houston. He'll get another shot at his former team when the Rockets travel to Madison Square Garden on Dec. 17. But Parsons was the star Friday, scoring 26 points in the first half to surpass his previous career high of 25. The second-year player went 8 for 8 to pile up 18 points in the first quarter. He finished 13 of 17 with four 3-pointers. Harden, who had nine assists, was a career-best 16 of 16 at the free throw line to help Houston build its big lead. Houston was up by 10 in the third quarter before going on a 10-0 run, capped by a 3 from Lin, to stretch the lead to 94-73 with about five minutes left in the third quarter. Anthony got a technical, and Tyson Chandler received a flagrant foul on a play where he and Omer Asik were jostling for a rebound in that span. Asik made Houston's next seven points before Toney Douglas sunk a 3-pointer at the buzzer to leave the Rockets up 104-80 entering the fourth quarter. The Knicks made just two field goals and had four turnovers in the last eight minutes of that quarter. The Knicks used an 11-2 run to cut the lead to 51-50 about 5 1/2 minutes before halftime. A 16-3 spurt by the Rockets after that, powered by seven points from Harden, put Houston back on top 67-53 with less than 2minutes left in the second quarter. Parsons sunk a 3-pointer about a minute later to push Houston's lead to 72-57 at halftime. The Rockets built an 11-point lead early behind seven points by Parsons. Anthony quickly closed the gap to 20-15 with consecutive 3-pointers after that. New York made the last six points of the first quarter to get to 35-32 entering the second quarter. Morris was shaken up with about a minute left in the first quarter fighting for a rebound with Anthony. He fell to the court where he remained for a couple of minutes. He was eventually helped to his feet and taken to the locker room. He returned to the bench with about 11 minutes left in the second quarter and returned to the game about 6 minutes before halftime. Anthony also had 18 points after one quarter. Courtesy of: huffingtonpost.com

Memphis G. - LA Lakers 106-98
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) scored 21 points, and the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Los Angeles Lakers 106-98 on Friday night to take back the NBA's best record for themselves once again. The Grizzlies improved to 9-2 by taking the lead over the Lakers in the first quarter and never letting go. Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) had 17 points and 12 rebounds, and Marc Gasol added 14 points and eight assists. Mike Conley scored 19 and Tony Allen finished with 12. The Lakers, playing their third road game in four nights, now have lost all four road games this season and their second straight with new coach Mike D'Antoni on the bench. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) scored 14 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter. Metta World Peace and Antawn Jamison each had 16. Randolph and Marc Gasol outscored Howard and Pau Gasol while helping Memphis outrebound the Lakers 39-28, including 13 offensive boards. That led to a 40-24 scoring edge in the paint as well. Pau, who missed five of his first six shots, did not play in the final period. Memphis bounced back after a 97-92 loss to Denver on Monday night snapped its eight-game winning streak. This win also came with one of the Grizzlies' new co-owners sitting at mid-court. Musician and actor Justin Timberlake joined the Grizzlies at their shootaround, then spent the first half of the game at mid-court with his wife, actress Jessica Biel. Wearing a blue and white Memphis hat, Timberlake stood up after the first quarter and danced along with the Grizzlies' Grannies and Grandpas, though he stayed at his seat. The Grizzlies outscored the Lakers 34-18 in the first quarter and 26-21 in the third while leading by as much as 16. Jamison threw up a shot that beat the buzzer at the end of the third quarter, then hit a 3 to open the fourth. With the Grizzlies doubling down to defend Howard in the paint, that left his teammates open. Jodie Meeks hit back-to-back 3s, then Howard had the assist when he found Chris Duhon for another 3. Bryant hit a 3 with 5:26 left to get the Lakers within five. Memphis then brought Allen back in to defend Bryant, and Randolph hit a free throw to help Memphis finish off the win. The Lakers' reserves helped start the second quarter with a 15-2 run to close to 36-33 on Howard's dunk with 7:05 left. Courtsy of: inquirer.net

Indiana P. - San Antonio S. 97-104
Tony Parker (6'2''-PG-82) says he's been working on his shot, and it looks as if it's paying off. Parker had 33 points and 10 assists, and the San Antonio Spurs erased a 17-point deficit on their way to a 104-97 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night. Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) had 22 points for San Antonio (10-3), which closed the game with a 17-2 run. Manu Ginobili scored 19. David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) scored 22 for the Pacers (6-8), and Paul George finished with 15. George Hill collected 11 points and Roy Hibbert had 10. Parker made his first eight shots and scored 16 in the first quarter. He put together a 15-for-23 night from the field and made three of his four foul shots. Parker said coach Gregg Popovich 'wanted me to be more aggressive, take more shots, and so I've been working with Chip (assistant coach Engelland), and the last two games, it's been working well for me.' West scored seven points and Lance Stephenson had four as the Pacers went on a 13-1 run to build a 70-53 lead with 6:35 to play in the third. But Ginobili and the Spurs responded with an impressive rally. The 35-year-old Ginobili was seemingly everywhere, driving the lane, taking shots from beyond the arc and finding his teammates for open baskets. He scored seven points and Parker added six as the Spurs closed the period with a 20-7 run. 'No panic,' Parker said. 'Obviously, Indiana was making a run the third quarter. They were making great shots and playing great defense, and we just didn't panic. We just keep playing. 'In the third quarter, we cut it to four, so that was huge for us. And then, in the fourth quarter, we started making stops, and we made the shots that we needed.' Indiana grabbed a 95-90 lead on Hill's jumper from the free-throw line with 5:30 to play. But the Pacers missed their last 11 shots, managing just two free throws by West down the stretch. 'I think we competed our tails off, but give credit to San Antonio,' Pacers coach Frank Vogel said. 'They executed better than we did down the stretch and got the W. 'Our guys are playing good offensive basketball and executing pretty well. That's the game of basketball for you, though. Sometimes, the ball doesn't go in the basket. Gary Neal fueled San Antonio's final surge with two free throws and a basket. Parker hit a jumper from the free-throw line and Duncan followed with a jumper from the top of the key and a layup after a scramble for a loose ball. Parker sank two free throws for a 103-95 lead with 1:33 to play. West made two free throws with 55 seconds left, but Parker hit a foul shot with 25 seconds to go. 'He got us going the whole game,' Popovich said of Parker. 'He had double-digit assists, 33 points. He was phenomenal. He played great D.' George said Parker is tough to stop when he gets going. 'It's hard to be able to get gaps and slow him down, because they've got a lot of shooters spotting up,' he said. 'It's kind of pick your poison.' 'We couldn't put the ball in the basket at the end. It just got real difficult, for some reason. We got great looks. Sometimes, it goes like that.' Courtesy of: washingtonpost.com

Detroit P. - Toronto R. 91-90
Brandon Knight (6'3''-G-91, college: Kentucky) didn't get to play the second quarter after a tough first. In the fourth, the second-year point guard rescued a game for the Detroit Pistons. Knight's not-to-be-denied drive out of a halfcourt set produced a layup with 7.8 seconds left and gave the Pistons a 91-90 win Friday over the Toronto Raptors. It was a win the Pistons desperately needed -- both teams are 3-10 -- on a night when they took their longest look yet at their front-court pairing of the future, Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93, college: Connecticut) and Greg Monroe, both of whom had double-doubles. But it was Knight's play that sent a long-suffering crowd at The Palace of Auburn Hills into a frenzy unlike they've experienced here in a while. Knight finished with 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting after struggling with three first-quarter turnovers. He had eight in the fourth quarter, including five unanswered which brought the Pistons back from a five-point deficit into an 82-82 tie. His game-winner followed a pair of clutch hook shots by Tayshaun Prince, both coming after the Pistons had fallen behind by three points. Kyle Lowry missed Toronto's last two shots, a well-defended 14-footer and a 17-footer at the buzzer which bounced over the rim. Knight's heroics were set up by an exceptional blend of Monroe (19 points, 11 rebounds) and Drummond (13 points, 13 rebounds), forced because of Toronto's size and specifically Andrea Bargnani's perimeter shooting. Courtesy of: mlive.com

Brooklyn N. - LA Clippers 86-76
The Nets outscore the Clips 46-29 in the 2nd half to pull away from the Pacific's 1st place team. Brook Lopez (7'0''-C/F-88, college: Stanford) had his usual big first quarter - then continued that performance for the rest of the game, going for 26 points, as the Nets defeated the Clippers 86-76 tonight in Brooklyn. The Clippers led by 9 at halftime, thanks to an 8-0 run to end the 2nd quarter, but the Nets completely stifled them in the 2nd half - allowing only 29 points. Joe Johnson (6'7''-G-81, college: Arkansas) added 19 points on 8-12 shooting and appeared to be more aggressive and comfortable with his shot. Reggie Evans had a strong game as well, pulling down 12 rebounds in 22 minutes and picking up some of the slack for an ineffective Kris Humphries. Offensively, the big story was Lopez. He was able to consistently maneuver around Clippers centers DeAndre Jordan (6'11''-C-88, college: Texas A&M) and Ryan Hollins and seemed to be able to score at will. "My guys are just getting me good looks around the basket," Lopez said. "Where I can get one dribble or just go up and dunk and I'm getting a lot of easy looks thanks to them." The game was tied at 74 with 4:15 remaining, but Lopez and Johnson keyed an exciting 12 point run - including a Johnson dagger three from the right corner - to put the Clippers away. Courtesy of: netsdaily.com

Boston C. - Oklah.City T. 108-100
Kendrick Perkins called it. Prior to Friday's game against his former team the Boston Celtics, Perkins predicted that all the concerns and questions about the C's defense would not be sooner rather than later. "They'll pick it up," Perkins said. "They'll pick it up. New guys, chemistry, they'll get it together." Boston certainly did in their 108-100 win over Perkins and the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was Boston's first win this season when giving up 100 points. The Celtics (7-6) were led by Paul Pierce (6'7''-F/G-77, college: Kansas)'s 27 points along with strong games from Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F/C-76) (18 points) and Jason Terry (16 points). Boston went ahead in the third quarter and spent the rest of the game taking one body shot after another from the Oklahoma City Thunder. And there they stood, tall as ever. Even a last-minute scoring barrage by Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) could not derail the C's from this hard-earned win. Boston led 101-89 following a 3-pointer by Terry. From there, the Thunder reeled off nine points in a row to make it a one-possession game with less than two minutes to play. The Thunder had a chance to even up the score, but Kevin Durant's 3-pointer rimmed in and out. Boston got the rebound, force-fed Garnett at the other end of the floor which led to Garnett being fouled. He sank both free throws with 1:01 to play. But it wasn't until three straight misses by the Thunder - followed by another Terry 3-pointer with 36.7 seconds to play - did the C's feel as though this game was a done deal. Oklahoma City called a time-out, but it didn't matter. There was just too much ground to make up and not enough time. Boston had to withstand a late surge by Durant, who came to life in the fourth with 14 of his game-high 29 points. The Thunder seemed to have the game going at a pace of their choosing early on, tallying 28 first-quarter points. But the game's momentum soon swung in Boston's favor shortly after Kevin Durant was whistled for his third personal foul with nearly five minutes remaining in the first half. At the time, Oklahoma City was ahead 36-32. With Durant on the bench, Boston closed out the half with a 16-9 run capped off by a buzzer-beating 3-pointer by Terry that lifted the Celtics to a 48-45 halftime lead. Durant was on the floor to start the third quarter but it didn't matter. He was for the most part a non-factor at that point in the game. However, the Thunder have been one of the best teams in the NBA in recent years and it has not been solely because of Durant. Oklahoma City also features one of the league's most dynamic guards in Russell Westbrook who did his part to keep the Thunder within striking distance. For Boston, the contributions came from many most of the night. Among them was Jeff Green who was playing against his former Oklahoma City teammates for the first time since being traded to Boston in 2010. Green had 17 points on 6-for-11 shooting. Before the game, Green talked as though this game wasn't anything significant other than being "one of 82" this season. Yeah. OK. Right. Green had one of his more solid all-around games at both ends of the floor, getting it done with an array of lay-ups, dunks and jumpers. But as the Thunder continued to keep the game close, the Celtics found themselves relying more and more on an old friend who hasn't been around much this year - their defense. Key rebounds, important shots contested mixed in with an occasional offensive foul drawn, were all part of a Celtics performance that has to rank among their better ones this season. And it wasn't necessarily because of how well they played, but how they handled adversity and when pushed they showed the kind of perseverance and fight that has been missing most of this season. Courtesy of: csnne.com


Malaga's Marcus Williams talks heart surgery, journey to Euroleague stardom - by David Pick

On September 2, 2011, Los Angeles native guard Marcus Williams' basketball career was threatened without warning.

The former UConn stud and first round pick in the 2006 NBA draft was just three days into his new Russian contract when Kazan's physical identified a heart tumor. Williams immediately returned to the United States to undergo surgery, keeping him off the hardwood for over three months.

Williams had just capped a noteworthy season with Russian Enisey, averaging 15.3 points and finishing first in the league in assists with 6.8 per game.

Once receiving his worrying medical results, Williams contemplated the worst and began to reminisce about the highlights of his career, such as winning the 2004 NCAA title, being selected 22nd overall by the New Jersey Nets and playing in the Rookies All-Star Game. He also recalled being chosen to play in the Puerto Rican league's All-Star game, earning both the game's MVP and the Skills Contest awards.

It was on the flight home that Williams told himself "I'm sick of asking 'why' to certain things. I just continue to roll with the punches." He was convinced that it didnt matter where he played basketball, as long as he got one more shot to hoop.

Behind an encouraging 25-game comeback in China, Williams pursued a deal that would resurrect his career. The NBA, by the way, wasn't in the cards.

"There was some NBA talk over the summer. I had some camp invites but I never thought about going because I didn't want to do the NBA thing this year. I wanted to play more than anything," Williams told Eurobasket from his luxury patio overlooking the Mediterranean in Malaga, Spain. "Going to the NBA, I would have maybe been a second guard, for sure a third guard on some team and I know I can play basketball -- doing so at a high level was my ultimate goal," he added.

Throughout his rehab process, Williams gained 20-plus pounds of body fat, increasing his weight to 230 pounds, resembling a somewhat taller, non-muscular version of free agent NBA guard Derek Fisher.

Last summer, Williams was determined to get back into shape and like any other off-season, he played for the "L.A. Unified" squad in Los Angeles' famous pro-am Drew League. In July, he participated in a number of vigorous private workouts for European teams.

"It's funny," Williams recalled while looking back on how he was scouted by Spanish Unicaja Malaga. "Our General Manager told someone from my agency that they were on the lookout for a point guard and that they would stop through L.A. on their way to the NBA Summer League. They came to a few workouts, saw me play, and that was it. They were the first team to approach me," the 26-year-old guard said.

Later that month, Malaga's Croatian coach Jasmin Repesa left Williams with a very detailed to-do list before giving team officials the green light to sign the 6-foot-3 guard to a two-year contract.

" (Repesa) has been on my case before I even signed with Malaga. We spoke on the phone many times and he was strict about wanting me to lose my body fat, lose weight, and get into game shape early," the 211-pound healthy Williams revealed.

"I told him I'm willing to do whatever it takes, and though (Repesa) rarely allows us to get comfortable, (Repesa)'s very open minded and trusts us to make the right plays. I'm glad I was able to step in up."

With seven weeks into the Euroleague season, Williams, a Euroleague rookie, is fully recovered and is playing the best ball of his career. He's averaging 11.1 points shooting 41% from beyond the arc and is ranked third in the competition in made 3-pointers (18), leading his team to the Top 16 round with six consecutive victories. Williams also records 3.3 rebounds and 3.6 dimes in just 21 minutes of action.

Between 2006-2010, Williams collected 5.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 203-NBA games for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies.


Haslem sets Heat rebounding record - by Diamadis Farmakis

Haslem Becomes Heat Rebounding Leader. Some basketball history was made in the Heat-Bucks game. Miami's Udonis Haslem (6'8''-F-80, college: Florida) grabs two rebounds against the Bucks and passes Alonzo Mourning for the franchise record in Heat rebounds.

Haslem's second rebound on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks was the 4,808th of his career, one more than Alonzo Mourning grabbed in his tenure with the Heat

Haslem has spent all 10 of his pro seasons in Miami, and is the first undrafted player to lead an NBA franchise in total rebounds - Among undrafted players in NBA history, only Moses Malone, Ben Wallace and Brad Miller have more rebounds than Haslem, a native of Miami.

The Heat prepared an in-game video to commemorate Haslem's record. He reached the mark in his 606th career game, which is also a franchise record, one ahead of Heat co-captain Dwyane Wade.


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

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings
 1. London L. 5-0 
 2. Summerside S. 5-3 
 3. Moncton M. 5-4 
 4. Oshawa P. 4-3 
 5. St.John M.R. 3-4 
 6. Windsor Exp. 2-4 
 7. Halifax R. 2-4 
 8. Montreal J. 0-4 

Regular Season: Round 6

Nov. 22: London L. - Montreal J. 99-75
Nov. 22: Moncton M. - Summerside S. 97-86
Nov. 23: Summerside S. - Moncton M. 94-87
Nov. 23: St.John M.R. - Windsor Exp. 119-88
Nov. 22: St.John M.R. - Oshawa P. 100-114

Regular Season: Round 7

Nov. 24: Halifax R. - Windsor Exp.
Nov. 25: Montreal J. - Moncton M.
Nov. 25: London L. - Oshawa P.
Nov. 25: Halifax R. - Summerside S.


Round 6 of NBL Canada Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Moncton M. - Summerside S. 97-86
The Storm, who opened the regular season with four straight wins, dropped the opening game of a home-and-home series with the Moncton Miracles by a 97-86 score. The win moved the Miracles into first place in the Atlantic Division, a half game ahead of the Storm. Moncton is 5-3 (won-lost) while the Storm slipped to 4-3. The two teams will clash again tonight (Friday) at Eastlink Arena in Summerside. The opening tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., and a big crowd is expected for the Storm's first home game in two weeks. At the Moncton Coliseum, the second quarter proved to be the difference in the game. After the Storm led 28-24 after the opening 12 minutes, the Miracles outscored Summerside 23-15 to take a 47-43 advantage into halftime. The Miracles won the third quarter 24-23, and outscored the Storm by six points, 26-20, in the fourth. Sylvania Watkins (6'9''-F-84, college: Victory) scored a game-high 26 points to lead the Miracles, who received 22 points from Oliver McNally (6'3''-G, college: Harvard) and 18 from Darrell Wonge. Wonge scored 11 of those points in the first quarter. Gregory Plummer (6'3''-G-83, college: Eckerd) was the Storm's top point-getter with 24. Brandon Hassell had a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds and Issa Konare (6'8''-F-80, agency: Warren Sports International, college: High Point) added 13. Storm guard and team captain Al Stewart went over the 500-career point mark in a Storm uniform with 14 points. Stewart now sits second on the team's all-time scoring list behind Mike Williams, who scored 590 last season. The Storm went 31-for-100 in field-goal attempts while Moncton was 31-for-75. Moncton had a 10-for-23 summary from three-point range, compared to the Storm's 5-for-24. Courtesy of: journalpioneer.com

London L. - Montreal J. 99-75
Morgan Lewis said he was tired of seeing the Montreal Jazz. After three losses to London inside a week, one can only believe the Jazz were downright nauseous. Despite a first half that saw them play well only in spurts, the Lightning improved to a 6-0 start to the National Basketball League of Canada season with a 99-75 win over the Jazz Thursday before 1,841 at the Budweiser Gardens. It was the third straight meeting between the clubs since Saturday night and the loss dropped Montreal to 0-5. 'I'm definitely sick of seeing those guys, but even though we play them three times four times, one time, we have to approach each game as it comes,' Lewis said after a 13-point, eight-rebound night that included an alley-oop dunk to cap the third quarter. 'By now there are no secrets - we know their plays, they know our plays. It just comes down to execution and heart.' The Lightning got their usual balanced scoring as five players hit double figures, led by veteran Elvin Mims (6'5''-F-79, college: S.Mississippi) 14. 'We take turns calling each other's number and if you hit a couple, we'll call it a few more times. If not, we'll move on to the next guy,' Lewis said of the Lightning's approach. 'But we also try to take some pride in our defence. Pretty much every night we're capable of scoring 120, so you're really going to have to outscore us to beat us.' Head coach Micheal Ray Richardson, just back in town after going to Colorado for his mother's funeral, admitted his team was inconsistent in the first half, in which the Lightning would take turns forging a double-digit lead, only to let the Jazz back into it. 'It was played in spurts, but that's going to happen,' he said. 'It's hard to play a team three times in a row, it really is. But it doesn't matter who we're playing, we just want to go out and play our best, stay focused in our minds and do our thing. And the big thing is I just don't have great players, I have a great team.' The game marked the Lightning debut for Osvaldo Jeanty (6'0''-G-84), a five-time Canadian university champion with the Carleton Ravens who spent the last five seasons playing in Germany, four of them in the First Division. Jenty, who was MVP of the Canadian university final four times, CIS player of the year twice and the first Raven named CIS athlete of the year, came on in the second quarter and promptly hit a pair of key three-pointers that maintained London's advantage just when the Jazz were looking to get back into it. He returned to the game in the fourth and canned another three to finish with nine points. 'It feels great to be here,' he said. 'I'm still trying to get to know everybody and get used to the way they play, figure out when they're going to cut to the basket and when they're not. And once I do that, I'll feel a lot more comfortable. 'Tonight, (the Jazz) left me open and my teammates found me.' Courtesy of: lfpress.com

St.John M.R. - Oshawa P. 100-114
Durham's team the Oshawa Power defeat the Saint John Mill Rats 114 - 100 to once again move above the .500 mark on the season. The Power started off slowly once again finding themselves on the wrong end of a 25-22 score line at the end of the first quarter. Head Coach Larry Blunt made the proper adjustments from then on and the Power dug in defensive as they cruised to a blow out victory on the road. William "Bo" Harris (6'7''-F-87, college: Miami Dade CC) had a breakout game for Durham's team as he finished with a game high 24 points and 12 rebounds. Nick Okorie (6'1''-G-88, college: Texas Tech) coming off his strong performance on Sunday afternoon chipped in with 19 points and 6 assists. Local Durham region star Courtney Small (6'3''-G-88) once again had a stand out effort on the defensive end of the floor. Small also contributed on the offensive end finishing with 4 points and 6 assists. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

St.John M.R. - Windsor Exp. 119-88
The Saint John Mill Rats, presented by Rogers, crushed the Windsor Express on Friday evening at Harbour Station with a final score of 119-88 in front of 1,876 fans. After a tough loss to the Oshawa Power last night, the Mill Rats meant business tonight as they bolted out of the gate getting their lead early on in the game. Mill Rats' leading scorer Antonio Burks (6'6''-F-82, college: SF Austin) and Steve Deluca, both nailed a couple of three pointers. The first quarter ended with the Mill Rats ahead 34-17. The Mill Rats kept their momentum during the second, with the help of Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) and Burks who added another 2 threes. Jerice Crouch (6'0''-G-84, college: Chattanooga) closed the half with a buzzer beating three to give the Mill Rats a 31 point edge, leading 66-35 over the Express. The Mill Rats shot 56% from the perimeter, netting 10 of their 18 attempted threes. The Express fought hard but weren't able to close the 30 point spread. The last quarter, the crowd was entertained by the debut of Will Njoku, a former NBA draft and one of the three Canadian players on the Mill Rats team. During his 5 minutes on the court, he scored 3 points and grabbed 1 rebound. The Mill Rats maintained their lead crushing the Express 119-88. The Mill Rats rise to 3-4 on the season, while the Express fall to 2-4. Leading scorers for the Mill Rats were Antonio Burks with 25 points, while guards Anthony Anderson and Jerice Crouch each added 16. Anderson also added 13 assists, making this a double double. The game was also the team's Movember theme game and audience members cheered to pick the "Must-have Moustache" of the game. Three prizes were awarded as part of a league wide initiative to support prostate cancer and men's mental health research. A special thank you to Rocky's Sports Bar, Moosehead Breweries and Booster Juice for making these prizes happen! The Mill Rats are on the road next week in Ontario taking on the Oshawa Power again at home on Wednesday and the London Lightning on Thursday. They are back at Harbour Station on Saturday, Dec. 1st taking on the first place Central division team, the London Lightning. Game time is 7pm. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Summerside S. - Moncton M. 94-87
The Storm outscored the short-staffed Moncton Miracles 54-43 in the second half en route to a 94-87 win before 2,073 fans at Eastlink Arena on Friday night. 'I don't think we played fully up to our potential,' said Storm head coach Joe Salerno. 'We still shot the ball less than 40 per cent, which this team shouldn't do. 'Missing (Chris) Cayole hurts a little bit when it comes to that, but we grinded this one out. This was a grinding win.' Cayole was injured during last weekend's three-game swing in Ontario. Salerno said the small forward is day-to-day, and he could possibly play in Halifax on Sunday afternoon. The win snapped a three-game losing streak, and moved the Storm into first place in the Atlantic Division of the National Basketball League of Canada. The Storm, who are now 3-0 (won-lost) at home, improved to 5-3 while Moncton fell to 5-4. 'It was streaky (play),' assessed Salerno. 'I thought in the first half we turned the ball over too much, and I think we only had seven turnovers in the second half. 'The difference between tonight's (Friday) game and our last three or four was we closed this game out. We took care of the basketball down the stretch, the final three minutes or so, knocked down free throws and executed. I was very pleased with that factor.' Issa Konare, who was 3-for-3 from three-point range, led the Storm with 20 points. Avery Smith had 15 points while Gregory Plummer and Antonio Ballard each sank 14. Ballard also recorded a game-high 14 rebounds. Devin Sweetney poured in a game-high 23 points for the Miracles, who only had eight players listed on the official game sheet. Oliver McNally (19), Sylvania Watkins (15) and Darrell Wonge (15) also scored in double digits. Both teams struggled offensively in the first half as the Storm led 23-18 after the first quarter, and that was after Summerside hit four straight three-pointers - three by Smith and one by Gregory Plummer - to close out the opening 12 minutes. Moncton outscored the Storm 26-17 in the second quarter to take a 44-40 advantage into halftime. The Miracles shot 16-for-41 from the field in the first half, and the Storm went 14-for-40. The Storm took a 55-53 lead in the third quarter, and they would not trail the rest of the way, although the teams were tied 69-69 in the fourth. Courtesy of: journalpioneer.com


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

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings
 1. Indiana 0-0 (5-0) 
 2. Louisville 0-0 (5-0) 
 3. Kentucky 0-0 (4-1) 
 4. Ohio St. 0-0 (4-0) 
 5. Michigan 0-0 (5-0) 
 6. N.Carolina St. 0-0 (3-1) 
 7. Kansas 0-0 (4-1) 
 8. Duke 0-0 (4-0) 
 9. Syracuse 0-0 (3-0) 
 10. Florida 0-0 (5-0) 
 11. Arizona 0-0 (3-0) 
 12. N.Carolina 0-0 (5-1) 
 13. UCLA 0-0 (4-1) 
 14. Michigan St. 0-0 (4-1) 
 15. Creighton 0-0 (5-0) 
 16. Memphis 0-0 (2-2) 
 17. Missouri 0-0 (3-1) 
 18. Baylor 0-0 (4-1) 
 19. UNLV 0-0 (2-1) 
 20. San Diego St. 0-0 (3-1) 
 21. Wisconsin 0-0 (3-2) 
 22. Gonzaga 0-0 (4-0) 
 23. Notre Dame 0-0 (4-1) 
 24. Florida St. 0-0 (4-1) 
 25. Texas 0-0 (3-2) 

Regular Season: Round 15

Nov. 23: Mississippi - Lipscomb 91-45
Nov. 23: Ohio St. - UMKC 91-45
Nov. 23: Santa Clara - E.Washington 89-74
Nov. 23: Virginia Tech - Appalachian St. 87-76
Nov. 23: Rider - Jacksonville 86-71
Nov. 23: N.Carolina A&T - Campbell 85-60
Nov. 23: Minnesota - Memphis 84-75
Nov. 23: Creighton - Wisconsin 84-74
Nov. 23: Florida A&M - Longwood 83-86 OT
Nov. 23: Arizona St. - Arkansas 83-68
Nov. 23: N.Carolina St. - NC-Asheville 82-80
Nov. 23: Nebraska-Omaha - Beth.-Cookman 81-93
Nov. 23: S.Dakota - Culver Stockton 81-73
Nov. 23: UNLV - Oregon 79-83
Nov. 23: Florida - Cent.Florida 79-66
Nov. 23: N.Mexico St. - La-Lafayette 79-57
Nov. 23: Cincinnati - Iowa St. 78-70
Nov. 23: Loyola Mary - Texas St. 78-63
Nov. 23: Drake - Rice 77-66
Nov. 23: Illinois St. - UAB 77-65
Nov. 23: Columbia - Wayland Baptist 75-63
Nov. 23: USC Upstate - Utah Valley 75-50
Nov. 23: N.Mexico - Idaho 73-58
Nov. 23: Gonzaga - Oklahoma 72-47
Nov. 23: Belmont - Northeastern 71-74
Nov. 23: Michigan - Kansas St. 71-57
Nov. 23: Michigan St. - Oakland 70-52
Nov. 23: Utah - Cent.Michigan 67-51
Nov. 23: Valparaiso - Chicago St. 67-46
Nov. 23: St.Mary's, CA - Pacific 66-76
Nov. 23: Providence - Fairfield 66-47
Nov. 23: Drexel - Xavier 65-69
Nov. 23: Cal-Riverside - Alaska-Anch. 65-66
Nov. 23: Fair Dickinson - Delaware St. 63-62
Nov. 23: Davidson - W.Virginia 63-60
Nov. 23: Wake Forest - William & Mary 63-57
Nov. 23: Missouri - Louisville 61-84
Nov. 23: Penn St. - Bucknell 60-57
Nov. 23: Delaware - Pittsburgh 59-85
Nov. 23: Alabama - Charleston So. 59-46
Nov. 23: Georgia Tech - California 57-68
Nov. 23: Wofford - Hampton 56-51
Nov. 23: Presbyterian - Cornell 55-89
Nov. 23: Rhode Island - Loyola, MD 54-58 OT
Nov. 23: Georgia - E.Tenn.St. 54-38
Nov. 23: N.Iowa - Stanford 50-66
Nov. 23: N.Arizona - Jacksonville St. 48-50
Nov. 23: Idaho St. - Wright St. 45-60
Nov. 23: Navy - Prairie View A&M 40-42
Nov. 23: Vanderbilt - Marist 33-50
Nov. 23: TCU - Northwestern 31-55
Nov. 23: CS Fullerton - San Diego Chr. 106-60
Nov. 23: Kentucky - LIU Brooklyn 104-75

Regular Season: Round 16

Nov. 24: Savannah St. - W.Illinois
Nov. 24: Miami, OH - JMU
Nov. 24: Dartmouth - IPFW
Nov. 24: Georgetown - Mt.St.Mary's
Nov. 24: George Mason - Boston U.
Nov. 24: Notre Dame - St.Francis, PA
Nov. 24: Illinois St. - TCU
Nov. 24: N.C.Central - Wagner
Nov. 24: Rider - Jacksonville
Nov. 24: Florida Atlantic - American
Nov. 24: SMU - UALR
Nov. 24: Valparaiso - Nebraska-Omaha
Nov. 24: Fair Dickinson - Navy
Nov. 24: St.Louis - S.Illinois
Nov. 24: Baylor - Charleston
Nov. 24: NC-Wilmington - Wofford
Nov. 24: G.Washington - Hofstra
Nov. 24: Brown - St.Francis, NY
Nov. 24: Dayton - Manhattan
Nov. 24: Miami, FL - Detroit Mercy
Nov. 24: Bradley - Tenn-Martin
Nov. 24: Yale - Army
Nov. 24: Cent.Michigan - Idaho St.
Nov. 24: Stony Brook - Canisius
Nov. 24: Lafayette - Princeton
Nov. 24: Utah - Wright St.
Nov. 24: NJIT - S.Carolina St.
Nov. 24: Citadel - Radford
Nov. 24: Ohio - Richmond
Nov. 24: Kennesaw St. - Chattanooga
Nov. 24: E.Illinois - Houston Baptist
Nov. 24: Cincinnati - UNLV
Nov. 24: Washington St. - Ark.-Pine Bluff
Nov. 24: UTPA - SIU Edwardsville
Nov. 24: Tulsa - SF Austin
Nov. 24: Coppin St. - Cheyney
Nov. 24: Holy Cross - New Hampshire
Nov. 24: N.Illinois - Loyola, IL
Nov. 24: Hartford - Cent.Conn.St.
Nov. 24: Niagara - St.Bonaventure
Nov. 24: Loyola Mary - Belmont
Nov. 24: Boise St. - UCSB
Nov. 24: Ill.-Chicago - SE Missouri St.
Nov. 24: N.Carolina A&T - N.Arizona
Nov. 24: VMI - Elon
Nov. 24: Florida A&M - Presbyterian
Nov. 24: E.Michigan - Madonna
Nov. 24: Co.Carolina - FIU
Nov. 24: Binghamton - Marywood
Nov. 24: S.Carolina - Missouri St.
Nov. 24: Maryland - Georgia South
Nov. 24: E.Kentucky - Norfolk St.
Nov. 24: Marshall - Nevada
Nov. 24: Middle Tenn.St. - Texas Southern
Nov. 24: St.John's - Florida Gulf Coast
Nov. 24: Samford - Texas Arlington
Nov. 24: LSU - Miss.Valley St.
Nov. 24: Green Bay - N.Dakota St.
Nov. 24: Tulane - Southern
Nov. 24: Louisiana Tech - La-Monroe
Nov. 24: Murray St. - ODU
Nov. 24: Cent.Arkansas - Sacramento St.
Nov. 24: Montana - San Diego
Nov. 24: S.Dakota - Waldorf
Nov. 24: W.Kentucky - Brescia, KY
Nov. 24: Washington - Colorado St.
Nov. 24: Nebraska - Kent St.
Nov. 24: Wyoming - CSU Bakersfield
Nov. 24: BYU - CS Northridge
Nov. 24: Utah St. - Weber St.
Nov. 24: N.Iowa - Minnesota
Nov. 24: Pepperdine - Cal-Irvine
Nov. 24: Arizona St. - Creighton
Nov. 24: USF - Columbia


Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game
 Pierre JACKSON
  Baylor
  (178-PG-91)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. Jackson, Baylor20.2 
 2. Nash, Oklahoma St.18.5 
 3. McClellan, Texas17.8 
 4. Jefferson, Baylor16.0 
 5. McGee, Iowa St.15.4 
 6. Smart, Oklahoma.15.3 
 7. Austin, Baylor14.8 
 8. McLemore, Kansas14.0 
 9. Withey, Kansas13.8 
 10. Clyburn, Iowa St.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cory JEFFERSON
  Baylor
  (206-F-90)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Jefferson, Baylor9.6 
 2. Holmes, Texas9.4 
 3. Austin, Baylor9.0 
 4. Ejim, Iowa St.8.6 
 5. Osby, Oklahoma8.3 
 6. Smart, Oklahoma.8.0 
 7. Clyburn, Iowa St.8.0 
 8. Withey, Kansas8.0 
 9. Murphy, Oklahoma.7.3 
 10. Nash, Oklahoma S.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Pierre JACKSON
  Baylor
  (178-PG-91)
  Avg: 7
 1. Jackson, Baylor7.0 
 2. Felix, Texas6.0 
 3. Smart, Oklahoma.5.0 
 4. Lucious, Iowa St.4.8 
 5. Rodriguez, Kansas4.8 
 6. Walton, Baylor4.4 
 7. Johnson, Kansas3.6 
 8. Anderson, TCU3.3 
 9. McLemore, Kansas3.0 
 10. Grooms, Oklahoma2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus SMART
  Oklahoma.
  (193-G-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Smart, Oklahoma.3.0 
 2. Walton, Baylor2.6 
 3. Jackson, Baylor2.4 
 4. Releford, Kansas1.8 
 5. Hield, Oklahoma1.8 
 6. McGee, Iowa St.1.8 
 7. Hornbeak, Oklahoma1.8 
 8. Spradling, Kansas1.7 
 9. Anderson, TCU1.3 
 10. Cousins, Oklahoma1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeff WITHEY
  Kansas
  (213-C-90)
  Avg: 5
 1. Withey, Kansas5.0 
 2. Jefferson, Baylor2.6 
 3. Ridley, Texas2.6 
 4. Ibeh, Texas2.0 
 5. Henriquez, Kansas1.7 
 6. Traylor, Kansas1.6 
 7. Murphy, Oklahoma.1.5 
 8. Osby, Oklahoma1.5 
 9. Smart, Oklahoma.1.5 
 10. McGee, Iowa St.1.4 


Malaga's Marcus Williams talks heart surgery, journey to Euroleague stardom - by David Pick

On September 2, 2011, Los Angeles native guard Marcus Williams' basketball career was threatened without warning.

The former UConn stud and first round pick in the 2006 NBA draft was just three days into his new Russian contract when Kazan's physical identified a heart tumor. Williams immediately returned to the United States to undergo surgery, keeping him off the hardwood for over three months.

Williams had just capped a noteworthy season with Russian Enisey, averaging 15.3 points and finishing first in the league in assists with 6.8 per game.

Once receiving his worrying medical results, Williams contemplated the worst and began to reminisce about the highlights of his career, such as winning the 2004 NCAA title, being selected 22nd overall by the New Jersey Nets and playing in the Rookies All-Star Game. He also recalled being chosen to play in the Puerto Rican league's All-Star game, earning both the game's MVP and the Skills Contest awards.

It was on the flight home that Williams told himself "I'm sick of asking 'why' to certain things. I just continue to roll with the punches." He was convinced that it didnt matter where he played basketball, as long as he got one more shot to hoop.

Behind an encouraging 25-game comeback in China, Williams pursued a deal that would resurrect his career. The NBA, by the way, wasn't in the cards.

"There was some NBA talk over the summer. I had some camp invites but I never thought about going because I didn't want to do the NBA thing this year. I wanted to play more than anything," Williams told Eurobasket from his luxury patio overlooking the Mediterranean in Malaga, Spain. "Going to the NBA, I would have maybe been a second guard, for sure a third guard on some team and I know I can play basketball -- doing so at a high level was my ultimate goal," he added.

Throughout his rehab process, Williams gained 20-plus pounds of body fat, increasing his weight to 230 pounds, resembling a somewhat taller, non-muscular version of free agent NBA guard Derek Fisher.

Last summer, Williams was determined to get back into shape and like any other off-season, he played for the "L.A. Unified" squad in Los Angeles' famous pro-am Drew League. In July, he participated in a number of vigorous private workouts for European teams.

"It's funny," Williams recalled while looking back on how he was scouted by Spanish Unicaja Malaga. "Our General Manager told someone from my agency that they were on the lookout for a point guard and that they would stop through L.A. on their way to the NBA Summer League. They came to a few workouts, saw me play, and that was it. They were the first team to approach me," the 26-year-old guard said.

Later that month, Malaga's Croatian coach Jasmin Repesa left Williams with a very detailed to-do list before giving team officials the green light to sign the 6-foot-3 guard to a two-year contract.

" (Repesa) has been on my case before I even signed with Malaga. We spoke on the phone many times and he was strict about wanting me to lose my body fat, lose weight, and get into game shape early," the 211-pound healthy Williams revealed.

"I told him I'm willing to do whatever it takes, and though (Repesa) rarely allows us to get comfortable, (Repesa)'s very open minded and trusts us to make the right plays. I'm glad I was able to step in up."

With seven weeks into the Euroleague season, Williams, a Euroleague rookie, is fully recovered and is playing the best ball of his career. He's averaging 11.1 points shooting 41% from beyond the arc and is ranked third in the competition in made 3-pointers (18), leading his team to the Top 16 round with six consecutive victories. Williams also records 3.3 rebounds and 3.6 dimes in just 21 minutes of action.

Between 2006-2010, Williams collected 5.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 203-NBA games for the New Jersey Nets, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies.


*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


Kirk Penney selected the top New Zealander playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Kirk Penney
Kirk Penney
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Kirk Penney (196-80, agency: Duran International, college: Wisconsin, currently plays in Turkey), who plays in the Turkish TBL. Penney could not help TED Kolejliler (3-3) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his very good performance TED Kolejliler was crushed 90-66 on the road by the higher-ranked Galatasaray (#3). Penney was the top scorer with 18 points. He also added 4 rebounds. But the season just started, so everything may happen. It's Penney's first year with the team. Penney is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Penney averages: 17.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.6apg, 2FGP: 69.6%(16-23), 3FGP: 42.4% and FT: 75.0%. He played for the New Zealand senior national team one years ago.

Alex Pledger
Alex Pledger
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Alex Pledger (213-87, college: Belm.Abbey, currently plays in Australia). Pledger led New Zealand Breakers to a victory over the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles (0-9) crushing them 93-63 in the Australian NBL on Friday night. He was MVP of the game. Pledger recorded 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 22 minutes. New Zealand Breakers (7-2) are placed first in the NBL. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Pledger is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in New Zealand Breakers' roster. He is currently first on the league's list of best blockers with 2.1bpg. This year Pledger's other stats are: 10.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 2FGP: 52.1% and FT: 63.6% in the nine games he played so far. He is in the roster of the New Zealand senior national team.

Thomas Abercrombie
Thomas Abercrombie
   #3. The New Zealand player who performed third best last week abroad was an international swingman Thomas Abercrombie (198-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St., currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger and both played together in the last Australian NBL game. Abercrombie was the major contributor in a New Zealand Breakers' victory against the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles (0-9) crushing them 93-63. He recorded 16 points. Abercrombie has been at the team for five years. Abercrombie has relatively good stats this season: 10.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 41.7%, 3FGP: 34.6% and FT: 73.1%. He played for the New Zealand national team one years ago.

Mika Vukona
Mika Vukona
   #4. Forward Mika Vukona (198-82, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger. He played also in the last Australian NBL game facing Thomas Abercrombie (above) in the other team. Vukona contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles (0-9) crushing them 93-63. He recorded 6 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Vukona's overall stats this season are: 7.3ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.6apg and 1.1spg. He has a dual citizenship: Fijian and New Zealand. Vukona is also New Zealand national team player.

Corey Webster
Corey Webster
   #5. International guard Corey Webster (188-88, college: Lambuth, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger. But that was another game of his team in Australian NBL which we would like to mention. Webster, who plays in the Australian NBL was not able to help New Zealand Breakers (7-2) in their last game. Despite his good performance the league leader New Zealand Breakers were crushed 89-64 in Perth by the lower-ranked (#5) Wildcats. Webster scored 11 points in a mere 17 minutes. It's Webster's first season with the team. This year his overall stats are: 5.2ppg and 1.8rpg in the five games. Webster used to play for the New Zealand national team last year.

Isaac Fotu
Isaac Fotu
   #6. Forward Isaac Fotu (203-93, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to Hawaii's victory against the University of North Dakota 71-66 in the NCAA last Tuesday. He scored 17 points, had 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks. The University of Hawaii has conference record this season. Fotu's total stats this year are: 5.2ppg and 1.8rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior New Zealand National Team roster.

Leon Henry
Leon Henry
   #7. International swingman Leon Henry (200-85, college: S.Idaho JC, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger. He played also in the last Australian NBL game facing Mika Vukona (above) in the other team. Henry contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles (0-9) crushing them 93-63. He recorded 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 11 minutes. This year Henry's total stats are: 2.6ppg and 2.3rpg in the eight games. He is also New Zealand national team player.

Jeremiah Trueman
Jeremiah Trueman
   #8. Power forward Jeremiah Trueman (206-87, college: Alaska-Anch., currently plays in Australia) faced previously mentioned Corey Webster in the Australian NBL last game. Trueman contributed to an easy victory against the league leader New Zealand Breakers (7-2) crushing them 89-64. He scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. Trueman has averaged so far 3.9ppg and 2.4rpg. He plays currently for the New Zealand national team.

Brendon Polyblank
Brendon Polyblank
   #9. Former international swingman Brendon Polyblank (197-78, college: Texas St., currently plays in Switzerland) contributed to Fribourg's victory against the sixth-ranked Boncourt (3-4) 76-68 in the Swiss LNA last Saturday. Polyblank recorded 8 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists in 28 minutes. Benetton Fribourg Olympic (6-1) is placed first in the LNA. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Polyblank has averaged so far 9.9ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.3apg and 1.3spg in the seven games. He used to play for the New Zealand national team eight years ago.

Dillon Boucher
Dillon Boucher
   #10. Forward Dillon Boucher (196-75, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger. He played also in the last Australian NBL game facing Leon Henry (above) in the other team. Boucher managed to help New Zealand Breakers to win against the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles (0-9) crushing them 93-63. He recorded only 1 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Boucher plays fifth season for the team. Boucher has averaged so far 1.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2apg and 1.1spg. He is a former international player as five years ago he still played for the New Zealand senior national team.

   #11. International forward Robert Loe (211-91, currently studies in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Texas A&M University crushing them 70-49 in the NCAA in Monday night's game. Loe scored 7 points in 19 minutes. He has averaged so far 1.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2apg and 1.1spg in the nine games. Loe plays currently for the New Zealand national team.

   #12. U18 international forward Reuben Te Rangi (201-94, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Alex Pledger. He played also in the last Australian NBL game facing Dillon Boucher (above) in the other team. Te Rangi contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Townsville Crocodiles crushing them 93-63. He recorded only 3 points. This season Te Rangi averages just 1.5ppg. He is also in the roster of the New Zealand U18 national team.

   #13. International guard Everard Bartlett (198-86, currently plays in Australia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jeremiah Trueman. However that was another game of his team in Australian NBL which brought him to that list. Bartlett was not able to secure a victory for one of league's weakest teams Perth Wildcats in their game against Adelaide 36ers. He cannot count Friday's game as one of the best ones. Bartlett recorded only 3 points in 13 minutes. His team lost 65-69. He has averaged so far 4.4ppg and 1.1rpg in the seven games. Bartlett is also New Zealand national team player.

   #14. International power forward Steven Adams (213-93, is currently at the American university) contributed to an overtime Pittsburgh's victory against the Oakland University 72-62 in the NCAA in Saturday night's game. He scored only 4 points, had 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks. Adams has averaged so far 4.4ppg and 1.1rpg. He used to play for the New Zealand national team last year.

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

   #1. Aaron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St., currently plays in Adriatic League), who plays in Slovenia could not help Un.Olimpija (4-5) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Un.Olimpija lost 82-86 at home to the leading Partizan. Baynes scored 16 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 24 minutes. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Baynes has relatively good stats this year: 11.1ppg and 4.2rpg in the nine games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Australian and New Zealand.

   #2. Marcel Jones (203-F-85, college: Oregon St., currently plays in Romania) led Pitesti to a surprising victory over the third-ranked Gaz Metan (7-3) 78-74 in the Romanian Division A last Saturday. Jones was the best player in that game. He scored 22 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 33 minutes. BCM U Pitesti (4-5) is placed tenth in the Division A. It's Jones' first season with the team. Jones is currently sixth on the list of best rebounders and also on the list of most steals (fourth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Jones averages: 15.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.7apg and 2.1spg in the nine games. He is a naturalized American. Jones used to play for McDonalds Manawatu Jets in New Zealand league.


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


Ebi Ere selected the top Nigerian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Here is the weekly review of the top performing Nigerian players, who play currently abroad.

Ebi Ere
Ebi Ere
   #1. This week's number one is former international swingman Ebi Ere (195-81, college: Oklahoma, currently plays in Italy). He was the major contributor in a 1-point Cimberio Varese's victory against the closely-ranked Banco di Sardegna Sassari (6-2) 85-84 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Ere scored 15 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 28 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Cimberio Varese (8-0) is placed first in the SerieA. So far his team won all eight games in the Regular Season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Ere's first year with the team. Ere is currently fifth on the list of top scorers with 17.0ppg. He also averaged so far 7.1rpg, 1.1apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 47.1%, 3FGP: 45.5%(20-44) and FT: 77.8% in the eight games he played so far. Ere has a dual citizenship: Nigerian and American. He played for the Nigerian senior national team three years ago.

Alade Aminu
Alade Aminu
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Alade Aminu (210-87, college: Georgia Tech, currently plays in EuroChallenge). Aminu led his Turkish team Karsiyaka to an easy victory against the fourth-ranked Etha (0-3) crushing them 86-59 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. He scored 13 points, had 6 rebounds and made 2 blocks. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir (3-0) is placed first in group A. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Aminu is currently fourth on the list of best blockers. This season he averages: 10.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.0bpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 56.5%(13-23) and FT: 57.1%. Aminu is in the roster of the Nigerian senior national team.

Derrick Obasohan
Derrick Obasohan
   #3. The Nigerian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Derrick Obasohan (198-81, college: Texas Arlington, currently plays in Eurocup). Obasohan led his French team Cholet to a victory against the closely-ranked Cibona (0-3) 95-90 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. He scored 16 points. It was his first game for Cholet this season. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. His team is placed third in the Eurocup. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Obasohan is another player who holds two passports: Nigerian and American. He is also a member of the Nigerian senior national team.

Ike Ofoegbu
Ike Ofoegbu
   #4. Forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-85, college: SMU, currently plays in Mexico), who plays in the Mexican LNBP (second division) could not help Toros (19-6) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his very good performance Toros was defeated in an overtime 99-95 on the road by the leading Halcones UV Xalapa. Ofoegbu was the top scorer with 23 points. He also added 4 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws). Ofoegbu has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 16.5ppg, 5.0rpg and 1.6apg. Ofoegbu has both American and Nigerian nationalities. He used to play for the Nigerian national team last year.

Michael Umeh
Michael Umeh
   #5. International point guard Michael Umeh (188-84, agency: Two Points, college: UNLV, currently plays in Italy) led Pall.Trento to a victory over the 13th-ranked FCM Ferentino (1-5) 87-81 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Umeh was MVP of the game. He recorded 26 points (!!!) in 40 minutes. Pallacanestro Trento 2009 (3-3) is placed ninth in the Lega2. Umeh has very impressive stats this year: 16.3ppg, 4.2rpg and 1.8apg in the six games. He also holds two passports: Nigerian and American. Umeh used to play for the Nigerian national team last year.

Chukwudinma Odiakosa
Chukwudinma Odiakosa
   #6. Power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St., currently plays in Israel) was the main contributor in a 3-point Hod Hasharon's victory against one of league's weakest teams Kiryat Tivon (1-5) 80-77 in the Israeli National League (second division) on Tuesday night. He was the best player in that game. Odiakosa had a double-double by scoring 27 points and getting 15 rebounds in 35 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. Maccabi Hod Hasharon (5-1) is placed first in the National League. It's Odiakosa's first year with the team. Odiakosa is currently second on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has very impressive stats this year: 22.3ppg, 16.3rpg and 1.7bpg in the six games. Odiakosa is a former U22 international player as he played for the Nigerian team eight years ago.

Jeleel Akindele
Jeleel Akindele
   #7. Former international center Jeleel Akindele (216-83, college: Chicago St., currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian SerieA was not able to help Juvecaserta (3-5) in their last game. Despite his good performance Juvecaserta was badly defeated 86-66 in Siena by the much higher-ranked (#3) Montepaschi. Akindele scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 25 minutes. It's Akindele's first season with the team. Akindele is currently second on the list of best rebounders with 8.4rpg. This year his other stats are: 12.4ppg in the eight games. Akindele used to play for the Nigerian national team three years ago.

Ekenechukwu Ibekwe
Ekenechukwu Ibekwe
   #8. Forward Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (210-85, college: Maryland, currently plays in Spain) was not able to secure a victory for Lagun Aro GBC (1-7) in their game against Blancos de Rueda (5-3) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 9 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 22 minutes. But Lagun Aro GBC lost 61-76 in Valladolid to the higher-ranked (#11) Blancos de Rueda. Ibekwe is the league's best blocker with 2.0bpg. This year he also averages: 7.8ppg and 6.4rpg in the eight games. Ibekwe holds both American and Nigerian passports. He plays currently for the Nigerian national team.

Adeola Dagunduro
Adeola Dagunduro
   #9. International guard Adeola Dagunduro (195-86, college: Nebraska, currently plays in Italy) managed to help Acea Virtus Roma in a victory against the 11th-ranked Umana Venezia (3-5) 75-67 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Dagunduro scored only 3 points in 7 minutes on the court. Acea Virtus Roma (5-3) is placed fifth in the SerieA. This year Dagunduro's overall stats are: 1.0ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.6apg in the eight games. He holds both American and Nigerian passports. Dagunduro is also in the roster of the Nigerian national team.

Ayodeji Egbeyemi
Ayodeji Egbeyemi
   #10. Guard Ayodeji Egbeyemi (193-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) couldn't help the Loyola Mary in their game against the Oral Roberts University (0-0) in the NCAA. Despite his good performance last Thursday He scored 10 points. Egbeyemi's total stats this season are: 1.0ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.6apg. He is a former U19 international player as five years ago he still played for the Nigerian national team.

   #11. International forward Andy Ogide (204-87, college: Colorado St., currently plays in Spain) contributed to Ourense's victory against the 12th-ranked Lobe Huesca 82-78 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. Ogide recorded 10 points and had 3 steals. Ogide belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #5. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.7ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.4spg. Ogide plays currently for the Nigerian national team.

   #12. Former U16 international center Christopher Obekpa (206-93, currently studies in the States) couldn't help the St.John's in their game against the Baylor University in the NCAA. He cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. Obekpa recorded only 2 points, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks in 17 minutes. His team was badly defeated by 19 points 97-78. He has relatively good stats this year: 11.7ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.4spg in the seven games. Obekpa used to play for the Nigerian U16 national team back in 2008.

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

   #1. Experienced Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming, currently plays in France) was the major contributor in an ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket's victory against the seventh-ranked Paris-Levallois (4-3) 82-76 in the French ProA on Saturday night. He recorded 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 39 minutes. ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (5-2) is placed second in the ProA. But the season just started, so everything may happen. Nsonwu-Amadi has relatively good stats this year: 11.9ppg, 8.4rpg and 1.6apg in the seven games he played so far.

   #2. Gani Lawal (205-C/F-88, college: Georgia Tech, currently plays in Italy) led Lottomatica Roma to a victory against the 11th-ranked Umana Venezia (3-5) 75-67 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. He scored 18 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 5 blocks; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Lawal's third season in pro basketball. Acea Virtus Roma (5-3) is placed fifth in the SerieA. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. It's Lawal's first year with the team. Lawal is ranked second on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.1ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.8bpg. Lawal has a dual citizenship: Nigerian and American.

   #3. Festus Ezeli (210-C-89, college: Vanderbilt, currently plays in NBA) contributed to an overtime Golden State Warriors' victory against the Dallas Mavericks (7-6) 105-101 in the NBA last Monday. He scored 9 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 21 minutes. The Golden State Warriors have 7-5 record this season. But there are still lots of games to play and it's a long way to go. This year Ezeli's overall stats are: 4.0ppg and 4.5rpg in the 12 games.

   #4. Ekpe Udoh (208-F/C-87, college: Baylor, currently plays in NBA), who plays in the NBA could not help the Milwaukee Bucks (6-4) to beat the Miami Heat (9-3). He scored 7 points. The Milwaukee Bucks were defeated in an overtime 113-106 on the road by the Heat. Udoh's overall stats this season are: 5.1ppg and 3.4rpg.

   #5. Emeka Okafor (206-F/C-82, college: Connecticut, currently plays in NBA) was not able to help the Washington Wizards (0-10) in their game against the Utah Jazz (6-6) in the NBA. He recorded 8 points, 14 rebounds and 3 blocks in 32 minutes. The Washington Wizards lost 76-83 in Salt Lake City to the Utah Jazz. So far Wizards lost all ten games in the Regular Season. Okafor has relatively good stats this year: 7.4ppg, 6.1rpg and 1.9bpg in the 10 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Nigerian and American.

   #6. Kieron Achara (208-F/C-83, agency: Two Points, college: Duquesne, currently plays in United Kingdom) led Glasgow Rocks to a victory over the closely-ranked Surrey Heat 82-76 in the British BBL on Sunday night. Achara was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 11 rebounds in 34 minutes. Achara has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 17.0ppg, 8.3rpg and 1.7apg in the six games. Achara has both Scottish and Nigerian nationalities.

   #7. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence, currently plays in Mexico) was the main contributor in a Fuerza Regia's victory against the closely-ranked Huracanes 92-88 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) on Sunday night. He was the best player in that game. Efejuku scored 22 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists. This season Efejuku has very high stats. He averages: 19.1ppg, 4.0rpg and 3.5apg. Efejuku also holds two passports: Nigerian and Jamaican.

   #8. Chinemelu Elonu (206-F/C-87, college: Texas A&M, currently plays in Turkey) was not able to secure a victory for Tofas in their game against Fenerbahce Ulker in the Turkish TBL. He scored 8 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 23 minutes. His team lost 66-74. Elonu belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #2) and also on the list of best blockers (second place). This year his overall stats are: 9.2ppg, 10.8rpg and 1.5bpg in the six games.

   #9. Olasumbo Atoyebi (203-C/F-88, college: Elon, currently plays in Lithuania), who plays in the Lithuanian LKL couldn't help the league outsider Naglis Palangos (0-8) in their last game on Thursday. Despite Atoyebi's very good performance the bottom-ranked Naglis Palangos was crushed 111-81 at home by the higher-ranked Neptunas (#6). He was the top scorer with 25 points. Atoyebi also added 6 rebounds. This season he has very high stats. Atoyebi averages: 20.7ppg, 8.3rpg and 1.3spg.

   #10. Olaseni Lawal (208-F/C-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wayne St., MI, currently plays in Italy) contributed to a Tezenis VE's victory against the second-ranked Biancoblu BO 80-69 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) in Sunday night's game. Lawal recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 14 rebounds. Lawal is the league's best rebounder and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place). His overall stats this season are: 8.4ppg, 12.7rpg, 1.3bpg and 2.7spg. Lawal holds both American and Nigerian passports. Worth to mention he played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.


*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Michael Hicks selected the top Panamanian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Michael Hicks
Michael Hicks
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced international swingman Michael Hicks (194-76, agency: Court Side, college: Texas A&M-CC, currently plays in Italy). He led Tuscany Pistoia to an overtime victory over the eighth-ranked Givova Scafati (4-3) 88-86 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) in Sunday night's game. Hicks was MVP of the game. He recorded 23 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 31 minutes on the court. Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (6-1) is placed first in the Lega2. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Hicks has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 17.7ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.9spg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 42.4% and FT: 81.5% in the seven games he played so far. Hicks played for the Panamanian senior national team one years ago.

Josimar Ayarza
Josimar Ayarza
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Josimar Ayarza (205-87, college: S.Mississippi, currently plays in Argentina). He was the major contributor in a 9 de Julio's surprising victory against the fifth-ranked Olimpico de La Banda (11-7) 81-77 in the Argentinian LigaA last Friday. Ayarza scored 22 points, had 6 rebounds and made 3 blocks; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his second season in pro basketball. 9 de Julio Rio Tercero (4-13) is placed second from the bottom (#15) in the LigaA. Ayarza has relatively good stats this season: 13.8ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 42.6%, 3FGP: 46.2%(6-13) and FT: 70.4%. He is in the roster of the Panamanian senior national team.

Jose Lloreda
Jose Lloreda
   #3. The Panamanian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Jose Lloreda (203-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU, currently plays in Argentina). Lloreda led Sionista to a 3-point victory over the fourth-ranked Penarol (11-5) 82-79 in the Argentinian LigaA on Sunday night. He was the best player in that game. Lloreda recorded 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 26 minutes. Centro Juventud Sionista de Parana (9-9) is placed eighth in the LigaA. It's Lloreda's first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 11.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 2FGP: 55.9%(19-34) and FT: 47.1% in the four games. Former Magnates de Calidonia starter played for the Panamanian national team one years ago.

Antonio Garcia
Antonio Garcia
   #4. Power forward Antonio Garcia (203-76, college: Ky Wesleyan, currently plays in Mexico) led Panteras to a victory against the league outsider Gigantes (2-23) 89-78 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) in Saturday night's game. Garcia recorded a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 19 rebounds. He also added 3 assists. Panteras de Aguascalientes (17-8) is placed sixth in the LNBP. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Garcia is ranked first on the list of the best rebounders in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.9ppg, 11.2rpg and 3.6apg. Garcia used to play for the Panamanian national team last year.

Danilo Pinnock
Danilo Pinnock
   #5. International guard Danilo Pinnock (196-83, college: G.Washington, currently plays in Mexico) contributed to an easy victory against the 12th-ranked Guerreros (7-18) 86-69 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) last Saturday. He scored 14 points, had 8 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 24 minutes. Halcones Rojos de Veracruz (19-6) is placed fourth in the LNBP. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. Pinnock has reliable stats this year: 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.5apg and 2.5spg in the four games. He is a naturalized American. Pinnock plays currently for the Panamanian national team. He used to play for Toros de Chorrillo in Panamanian league.

Leonardo Pomare
Leonardo Pomare
   #6. Forward Leonardo Pomare (203-86, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: San Diego, currently plays in Japan) contributed to a Kyoto Hannaryz's victory against the tenth-ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (1-11) 101-87 in the Japanese BJ League on Sunday night. Pomare recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 11 rebounds. Kyoto Hannaryz (4-8) is placed eighth in Western group. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. But the season just started, so everything may happen. Pomare's stats this year are: 14.2ppg, 10.1rpg and 1.1apg. He is a naturalized American. Pomare is international player as he played for the Panamanian senior team one years ago. He used to play for Fieras de Cocle in Panamanian league.

Dionisio Gomez Camargo
Dionisio Gomez Camargo
   #7. International forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas, currently plays in Japan) helped Shiga L-Stars win their game against the fifth-ranked Shimane Magic (7-5) 75-65 in the Japanese BJ League in Sunday night's game. Gomez Camargo recorded 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 21 minutes. Shiga Lakestars (6-6) are placed sixth in Western group. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Gomez Camargo averaged so far 12.3ppg and 7.5rpg in the 12 games. He used to play for the Panamanian national team last year.

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

   #1. Jamaal Levy (206-C-83, college: Wake Forest, currently plays in Liga SudAmericana), who plays in Argentina could not help Libertad Sunchales (1-2) to beat Regatas Corrientes (2-1). Levy recorded only 4 points. The third-placed Libertad Sunchales was defeated 78-72 on the road by the lower-ranked Regatas Corrientes (#4) in the group F of Liga Sudamericana. Levy belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #6. His overall stats this season are: 5.8ppg, 5.8rpg and 2.0apg.

   #2. Gabriel Giron (192-G-88, currently plays in Mexico) contributed to a Fuerza Regia's victory against the closely-ranked Halcones Rojos (19-6) 84-75 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) on Thursday night. Giron recorded 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in only 13 minutes. Fuerza Regia Monterrey (14-10) is placed seventh in the LNBP. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Giron's overall stats are: 7.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.0apg and 1.1spg in the 20 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Panamanian and Mexican.

   #3. Jordan Henriquez (211-F-89, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to help the Kansas St. in their game against the University of Michigan in the NCAA. Henriquez scored 8 points and blocked 3 blocks. The Kansas St. was defeated 71-57 in Ann Arbor, MI by the University of Michigan. Henriquez is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Kansas St.'s roster. He is currently fifth on the list of best blockers. Henriquez's overall stats this season are: 7.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.0apg and 1.1spg. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Henriquez has never played in Panama.


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

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Standings
 1. Talk N Text 9-2 
 2. Rain or Shine 8-3 
 3. San Mig Coffee 8-3 
 4. Meralco Bolts 6-5 
 5. Barangay Ginebra 5-5 
 6. Alaska Aces 5-6 
 7. Petron Blaze 5-6 
 8. Air21 Express 4-7 
 9. Barako Bull 3-7 
 10. Global Port 1-10 

Regular Season: Round 8

Nov. 21: Meralco Bolts - Rain or Shine 98-102
Nov. 21: Talk N Text - San Mig Coffee 92-63
Nov. 23: Global Port - Meralco Bolts 92-101
Nov. 23: San Mig Coffee - Air21 Express 89-80
Nov. 24: Petron Blaze - Barako Bull
Nov. 25: Barangay Ginebra - Rain or Shine
Nov. 25: Air21 Express - Talk N Text


PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Solomon MERCADO
  Meralco .
  (181-PG-84)
  Avg: 21.1
 1. Mercado, Meralco21.1 
 2. Caguioa, Barang.20.4 
 3. David, Global Port19.2 
 4. Cardona, Meralco18.4 
 5. Yap, San M.17.1 
 6. Lutz, Petron Blaze16.9 
 7. Chan, Rain or Shine16.8 
 8. Fonacier, Talk N.16.5 
 9. Miller, Global Port16.3 
 10. Tubid, Barako Bull16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Arwind SANTOS
  Petron B.
  (193-F-81)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Santos, Petron B.12.1 
 2. Pingris, San M.9.8 
 3. Abueva, Alaska Ac.9.0 
 4. Cruz, Rain or Shine8.9 
 5. Villanueva, Barako8.8 
 6. de Ocampo, San M.8.4 
 7. Williams, Talk N.8.3 
 8. Maierhofer, Barang.8.0 
 9. Mamaril, Barang.7.9 
 10. deOcampo, Talk N.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Willie MILLER
  Global Port
  (180-PG-77)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Miller, Global Port6.4 
 2. Mercado, Meralco6.0 
 3. Cabagnot, Petron5.4 
 4. Alapag, Talk N Te.4.8 
 5. Urbiztondo, Barako4.7 
 6. Lutz, Petron Blaze4.7 
 7. Tenorio, Barang.4.7 
 8. Miranda, Petron B.4.3 
 9. Norwood, Rain o.4.1 
 10. Reyes, Talk N Te.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ryan REYES
  Talk N Text
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. Reyes, Talk N Text2.0 
 2. Abueva, Alaska Ac.1.8 
 3. Tenorio, Barang.1.6 
 4. Urbiztondo, Barako1.3 
 5. Custodio, Air21 E.1.3 
 6. Fonacier, Talk N.1.2 
 7. Caguioa, Barang.1.2 
 8. Santos, Petron B.1.1 
 9. Hodge, Meralco1.1 
 10. Norwood, Rain o.1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Arwind SANTOS
  Petron B.
  (193-F-81)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Santos, Petron B.1.4 
 2. Hodge, Meralco1.3 
 3. Thoss, Alaska Aces1.0 
 4. Abueva, Alaska Ac.1.0 
 5. Baguio, Alaska Ac.0.9 
 6. Cruz, Rain or Shine0.9 
 7. de Ocampo, San M.0.9 
 8. Washington, Petron0.9 
 9. Baclao, Air21 E.0.9 
 10. Norwood, Rain o.0.8 


2012 PBA Philippine Cup Roundup: November 23, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

Game Recaps:
MERALCO BOLTS over GLOBAL PORT BATANG PIER, 101-92

This time, Sol Mercado made sure to get the job done.

Mercado, who finished with 24 points and nine assists, scored the biggest baskets to lead the Meralco Bolts to a 101-92 triumph over the GlobalPort Batang Pier Friday night at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

The Bolts survived the early onslaught by Gary David, who scored 25 of his 33 points in the first half, and the late brilliance of Rey Guevarra, who scored 18 of his 20 points in the second half.

Mac Cardona led the way with 26 points for Meralco, while rookie Kelly Nabong had a career game with 18 points and 11 rebounds.

But it was Mercado who drilled in a cold-blooded triple from the left wing to beat the 24-second shot clock and put the Bolts on safer ground, 91-83, with 2:35 left in the game.

The spitfire guard then put together six more points to help put the game away for the Bolts, which won for the sixth time in 10 games.

Mercado also helped Meralco force overtime against Rain or Shine last Wednesday, but the Bolts succumbed to the Elasto Painters in overtime after holding a 26-point third quarter lead.

Meralco made sure there would be a different result against the Batang Pier.

Sols game was really so balanced in this game. We just have to make sure to give him enough rest to give us the finishing kick. Its a very gratifying win after an emotional loss to Rain or Shine, said Gregorio, who asked his coaching staff to play a more active role in their game against the Batang Pier because he felt he was like he was hit with a haymaker coming off a loss to Rain or Shine where his team squandered a 26-point lead.

I have to ask help from my coaches. I thank God I have a solid coaching staff which helped me all the way. When you lose like that against Rain or Shine, you hardly have enough sleep. Its great to win again, which solidified our spot for No. 4.

Gregorio also attributed the teams win to the players mentality to play Meralcos brand of basketball.

Humility was a key factor in our success today. We should know to handle our success. Bully basketball is not part of our vocabulary. Were winning games because of our tough defense and solid basketball, said Gregorio.

MER 101- Cardona 26, Mercado 24, Nabong 18, Buenafe 14, Hugnatan 10, Hodge 2, Ross 2, Borboran 2, Salvacion 2, Reyes 1, Artadi 0.
GLO 92- David 33, Guevarra 20, Manuel 15, Miller 7, Al-Hussaini 5, Mandani 4, Deutchman 3, Vanlandingham 3, Salvador 2, Lingganay 0, Yee 0, Vergara 0, Adducul 0.
QS: 22-21, 48-42, 70-66, 101-92

SAN MIG COFFEE MIXERS over AIR 21 EXPRESS, 89-80

The San Mig Coffee Mixers bounced back from an embarrassing loss with a solid win over the Air 21 Express, 89-80, Friday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

James Yap scored 16 of his 20 points in the first half, while Mark Barroca added 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists for the Mixers, who were coming off a 29-point loss to Talk N Text last Wednesday.

Its a good bounce-back game for us. We got embarrassed big time, and we figured it will be difficult to recover from a loss like that. Its harder for management, fans, and coaches. But a 30-point loss is the same as one-point loss. We were concerned about how were going to respond, said Cone.

We didnt have time to dwell about the loss to Talk N Text because were up against Air 21. We used the loss to Talk N Text as a way to propel us, just like what we did when we lost to Powerade, which led us eventually to winning the Commissioners Cup last season.

Up by only six points following KG Canaletas basket, 82-76, San Mig Coffee tightened its screws on Air 21 to end the match.

No Air 21 player was able to score until Mark Isip hit a garbage basket with only 23.9 seconds to go and San Mig Coffee up by 13 point, 89-76.

Jonas Villanueva chipped in 11 points and Rafi Reavis contributed 10 for the Mixers, who forged a tie for second spot with Rain or Shine at 8-3.

Air 21 suffered its second straight loss and seventh in 11 games.

SMC 89- Yap 20, Barroca 12, Villanueva 11, Reavis 10, Simon 9, Pingris 8, Devance 7, Intal 6, De Ocampo 6, Gonzales 0.
A21 80- Canaleta 18, Sena 10, Isip 10, Cortez 9, Wilson 8, Custodio 8, Reyes 7, Ritualo 6, Baclao 4, Atkins 0, Arboleda 0.
QS: 25-21, 51-45, 73-66, 89-80

Source: Unless otherwise specified, game recaps were compressed and compiled from InterAKTV. (Writing credit to Rey Joble.)



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

Standings

Division A Standings
 1. Oradea 7-1 
 2. U.Mobitel.CN