Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/22/2012

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

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

ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

1. Obras		17-6
2. Libertad S.		17-7
3. Penarol		16-7
4. Sionista		15-9
5. Lanus		15-9
6. Atenas		14-9
7. La Union		14-11
8. Quimsa		12-12
9. GECR Indalo		12-12
10. Regatas C.		11-14
11. Boca Jrs		9-14
12. Olimpico LB		9-15
13. Wuber-Est.Bahia		9-15
14. Club 9		8-16
15. Quilmes MP		8-17
16. San Mart.C.		6-19

Standings - TNA

TNA Standings

TNA1 North
1. Obera TC		3-2
2. Union Progr.		3-2
3. Estudian.Con.		3-2
4. San Isidro		2-2
5. Alvear		1-4
TNA1 South
1. Alianza Viedma		4-2
2. Argentino		4-2
3. Ciclista		3-3
4. Banda Norte		2-4
5. Huracan		1-5
TNA2 North
1. A.Italiana		3-2
2. A.Espanola		3-2
3. Tomas Rocam.		2-2
4. Atl.Echague		2-3
5. Union Sunch		2-3
TNA2 South
1. Rosario Cent.		4-1
2. Sport Club		2-2
3. Bragado		2-3
4. San Mart.MJ		2-3

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 17.8

1. Gutierrez, Obras	17.8
2. Smith, La Union	17.7
3. Villegas, Sionista	17.1
4. Pittman, Libertad.	16.0
5. DeGroat, Olimpico.	16.0
6. OBannon, Boca Jrs	15.9
7. Nelson, GECR I.	15.6
8. McHopson, Quilm.	15.6
9. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	15.5
10. McFarlan, San M.	15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Martinez, San M.	12.5
2. Battle, Libertad S.	9.6
3. Sandes, Sionista	9.4
4. Garces, Atenas	9.4
5. Lloreda, Olimpico.	8.8
6. Gutierrez, Obras	8.8
7. Davis, GECR I.	8.6
8. Truscott, Quilm.	7.6
9. Williams, Quimsa	7.3
10. Cowan, Club 9	7.2

Assists Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Campazzo, Penarol	6.6
2. Sanchez, Wuber-.	5.9
3. Stanic, Boca Jrs	5.5
4. Cequeira, Sionista	5.3
5. Martinez, Regat.	5.1
6. Sucatzky, Atenas	4.0
7. Victoriano, San M.	3.8
8. Laprovittola, Lanus	3.5
9. Osimani, Obras	3.5
10. Smith, La Union	3.4

Steals Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Campazzo, Penarol	2.3
2. Lescano, Atenas	2.3
3. Moldu, Olimpico LB	2.1
4. McHopson, Quilm.	1.8
5. Sanchez, Wuber-.	1.6
6. Stanic, Boca Jrs	1.6
7. Treise, Libertad S.	1.5
8. Quinteros, Regat.	1.4
9. Ciorciari, GECR I.	1.4
10. Beitzel, San M.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Battle, Libertad S.	1.4
2. Gutierrez, Obras	1.2
3. Rollins, Sionista	1.1
4. Roe, Regatas C.	1.1
5. Ayarza, Club 9	1.0
6. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	1.0
7. Rollins, San M.	0.9
8. Garces, Atenas	0.9
9. Weigand, Quilm.	0.8
10. Sanchez, Wuber-.	0.8

Ginobili, Splitter to miss about two weeks - by Eurobasket News
The latest medical report on injured Spurs Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) and Tiago Splitter (6'11''-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) estimates both players will miss two weeks of action, the result of injuries suffered in Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center.

Ginobili, the two-time All-Star shooting guard, was examined by Dr. David Schmidt, the team physician, after returning to San Antonio on Sunday. An MRI confirmed he suffered a left internal oblique strain.

Splitter, having a breakout season as the team's backup center, was diagnosed with a right calf strain, suffered as he pump-faked Clippers All-Star Blake Griffin off his feet in the first half.

I felt something, and when I went to shoot the free throws, I felt something strange, a little pop, Splitter said. They say it's small, not a big deal. That's the good news.

Splitter found some comfort in the fact the five-day All-Star break minimizes the number of games he will miss. He also will have to drop out of the Rising Stars Challenge.

That's a great weekend and would have been fun to be part of it, Splitter said. But I'm happy we don't have many games this week and then the break, so I won't miss so many games.

Splitter's injury will be treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and massage.

Less than 24 hours after his injury, Ginobili expressed optimism that it might not be as bad as initially feared, and the two-week estimate for his return was less than the Spurs initially expected. Nevertheless, coach Gregg Popovich empathized with the frustration being felt by the team's emotional leader.

You can imagine, as competitive as he is, that it's just killing him, Popovich said. He had just started coming back, (was) just beginning to get in shape and get a rhythm. He's pretty depressed about it. Hopefully, the team can get over it, realize he and Tiago will be out, and that's just the way it is.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

LigaA Round 24 of Second Stage - by Eurobasket News
Tenth-ranked Regatas Corrientes (11-13) was very close to win a game against first ranked Obras (17-6) in Buenos Aires on Sunday. Obras managed to secure only five-point victory 90-85. However their fans expected much easier game. It was a good game for Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Regatas Corrientes' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Obras maintains first position with 17-6 record. Regatas Corrientes at the other side keeps the tenth place with 13 games lost. Obras' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Buenos Aires Boca Juniors.

In the last two games of round 24 Wuber-Est.Bahia was beaten by Libertad S. on the road 81-71. Sionista lost to Olimpico LB on its own court 71-73. La Union managed to outperform Club 9 in Formosa 91-75. Lanus managed to beat Boca Jrs at home 74-69. Atenas was defeated by San Mart.C. on the opponent's court 82-79.
The most impressive performance of 24th round was 28 points and 16 rebounds by Robert Battle of Libertad S..

Obras - Regatas C. 90-85 OT
Tenth-ranked Regatas Corrientes (11-13) was very close to win a game against first ranked Obras (17-6) in Buenos Aires on Sunday. Obras managed to secure only five-point victory 90-85. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-14. But Regatas Corrientes won second period 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Regatas Corrientes used huge pressure winning it 20-13 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 12-17. Obras made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. Regatas Corrientes was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for international power forward Juan Gutierrez (205-83) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Alejandro Konsztatd (190-89) contributed with 12 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Five Obras players scored in double figures. American center Djibril Kante (201-80, college: Indiana St.) replied with 23 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Paraguayan guard Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) added 16 points and 5 assists in the effort for Regatas Corrientes. Regatas Corrientes' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Obras maintains first position with 17-6 record. Regatas Corrientes at the other side keeps the tenth place with 13 games lost. Obras' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Buenos Aires Boca Juniors.
Top scorers:
Obras: J.Gutierrez 18+5reb+2ast, T.Field 15+5reb+1ast, J.Mazzaro 14+3reb+1ast, T.Washam 12+4reb+2ast, A.Konsztatd 12+5reb+6ast, A.Elsener 9+5reb+4ast
Regatas C.: D.Kante 23+8reb+1ast, J.Martinez 16+3reb+5ast, N.De los Santos 12+3reb+2ast, B.Zanotti 8+3reb, N.Romano 7+6reb, T.Taylor 6+5reb

Libertad S. - Wuber-Est.Bahia 81-71
No shocking result in a game when third ranked Libertad Sunchales (17-7) beat at home 12th ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (9-15) 81-71 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 46-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Libertad Sunchales made 17-of-20 free shots (85.0 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American center Robert Battle (204-81, college: Drexel, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 16 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). The other American import forward Joshua Pittman (197-76, college: NC-Asheville, agency: Dream Team Management) contributed with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four Libertad Sunchales players scored in double figures. Puerto Rican power forward Ricardo Sanchez (212-87) replied with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds and international guard Juan Ignacio Sanchez (193-77, college: Temple) added 10 points and 4 assists in the effort for Wuber-Est.Bahia. Libertad Sunchales have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Wuber-Est.Bahia lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth position with 15 games lost. Libertad Sunchales will face GECR Indalo (#9) in Comodoro R. in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Wuber-Est.Bahia will play at home against Club 9 in Rio Tercero and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Libertad S.: R.Battle 28+16reb+3ast, J.Emiliano Fernandez 17+3reb, J.Pittman 15+7reb+5ast, J.Treise 10+1reb+4ast, S.Ginobili 4+1ast, J.Johnson 4+5reb+2ast
Wuber-Est.Bahia: A.Zago 12+2reb, F.Aguerre 12+1ast, J.Ignacio Sanchez 10+3reb+4ast, R.Sanchez 10+10reb+2ast, E.Ruiz 8+4reb+1ast, L.Faggiano 7+3reb+4ast

Quilmes MP - GECR Indalo 85-88 OT
Top scorers:
GECR Indalo: D.Davis 25+11reb+1ast, D.Romero 18+12reb+2ast, M.Franco 12+4reb, C.McGowan 9+2reb+1ast, D.Ciorciari 9+5reb+5ast, F.Mansilla 7+1reb
Quilmes MP: C.Matthews 18+5reb, P.McHopson 16+4reb+5ast, N.Ferreyra 14+2reb+7ast, A.Weigand 12+9reb+3ast, M.Smith 9+5reb, L.Truscott 7+3reb

Sionista - Olimpico LB 71-73
There was an upset when higher ranked Sionista (15-9) was edged by thirteenth ranked Olimpico de La Banda (9-15) in Parana 73-71 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 19-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for American point guard Gregory Grays (185-79, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory with 17 points. Forward Fernando Malara (194-80, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 10 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Federico Ferrini (194-83) replied with 22 points and 5 rebounds and Puerto Rican guard Johwen Villegas (193-85, college: FIU) added 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Sionista. Four Sionista players scored in double figures. Olimpico de La Banda have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Wuber-Est.Bahia. Sionista lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with nine games lost. Olimpico de La Banda will face higher ranked Lanus (#5) in Buenos Aires in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Sionista will play on the road against La Union in Formosa.
Top scorers:
Olimpico LB: G.Grays 17+2reb+3ast, E.Villares 16+1ast, F.Malara 10+8reb+1ast, J.DeGroat 9+8reb+1ast, C.Amicucci 9+2reb, J.Machuca 5+2ast
Sionista: F.Ferrini 22+5reb+2ast, J.Villegas 13+9reb+4ast, A.Zilli 13+3reb, H.Rollins 10+14reb+1ast, N.Agasse 5+1reb+1ast, R.Iglesias 5+2reb+2ast

Club 9 - La Union 75-91
Very predictable result when seventh ranked La Union (14-11) won against 14th ranked Club 9 (8-16) in Rio Tercero 91-75 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by La Union. Club 9 was better in second period 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American forward Gregory Lewis (198-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds. The other American import guard Joe Smith (193-77, college: Al.-Huntsville, agency: Priority Sports) contributed with 27 points for the winners. The former international guard Diego Gerbaudo (182-89) replied with 20 points and 6 assists and American power forward Jazwin Cowan (205-83, college: Hampton, agency: Dream Team Management) added 12 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Club 9. Four Club 9 players scored in double figures. La Union maintains seventh position with 14-11 record. Loser Club 9 keeps the fourteenth place with 16 games lost. La Union will face higher ranked Sionista (#4) in Parana in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Club 9 will play on the road against Wuber-Est.Bahia (#13) in Bahia Blanca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
La Union: G.Lewis 28+14reb, J.Smith 27+2ast, G.Mikulas 18+8reb+2ast, A.Marin 9+3reb, J.Caceres 5+1reb, D.Farabello 2+3reb+1ast
Club 9: D.Gerbaudo 20+4reb+6ast, J.Cowan 12+6reb+1ast, J.Ayarza 12+4reb+3ast, G.Torre 10+2reb+1ast, P.Orlietti 6+2reb, L.Masieri 6+1reb

Lanus - Boca Jrs 74-69
Not a big story in a game when 11th ranked Boca Juniors (9-14) lost to sixth ranked Lanus (15-9) in Buenos Aires 69-74 on Sunday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Boca Juniors was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 18-12 charge of Lanus, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for the former international guard Mariano Byro (195-82) who led his team to a victory with 17 points. International guard Nicolas Laprovittola (189-90) contributed with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Five Lanus players scored in double figures. American guard Larry O'Bannon (194-83, college: Louisville, agency: Interperformances) replied with 20 points and his fellow American import power forward Derrick Alston (208-72, college: Duquesne, agency: Priority Sports) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Boca Juniors. Lanus have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Sionista. Loser Boca Juniors keeps the eleventh position with 14 games lost. Lanus will face Atenas (#6) in Cordoba in the next round. Boca Juniors' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Buenos Aires to the arena Obras.
Top scorers:
Lanus: M.Byro 17+4reb+2ast, J.Levy 12+5reb+1ast, N.Laprovittola 11+6reb+6ast, A.Boccia 11+5reb+1ast, L.Wade 10+2reb+2ast, B.Brown 8+4reb
Boca Jrs: L.O'Bannon 20+3reb+1ast, W.Graves 13+7reb, D.Alston 12+9reb+2ast, M.Delia 9+8reb+1ast, M.Stanic 6+1reb+3ast, J.Brussino 5+3reb

San Mart.C. - Atenas 82-79
There was a surprise result when sixteenth ranked San Martin Corrientes (6-19) edged at home higher ranked Atenas (14-9) 82-79 on Sunday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-17. But Atenas won third quarter 19-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. San Martin Corrientes made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Swingman Fabian Ramirez (197-90) contributed with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American forward Marcus Melvin (203-82, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) replied with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import power forward Ryan Humphrey (203-79, college: Notre Dame) added 20 points (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) in the effort for Atenas. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Newly promoted San Martin Corrientes maintains sixteenth position with 6-19 record. Loser Atenas dropped to the sixth place with nine games lost. San Martin Corrientes will face higher ranked La Union (#7) in Formosa in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
San Mart.C.: W.McFarlan 21+5reb+2ast, J.Coronado 17+3reb, F.Ramirez 17+6reb+3ast, A.Eslava 14+4reb, A.Carabajal 8+2reb+3ast, J.Michael Martinez 5+10reb+5ast
Atenas: R.Humphrey 20+4reb, M.Melvin 15+9reb+4ast, M.Gerlero 15+1reb+1ast, M.Lescano 13+2reb+5ast, J.Manuel Rivero 6, F.Sucatzky 4+1reb+1ast

Battle's double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old center Robert Battle (204-C-81, agency: Dream Team Management) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Libertad S. and receives a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 28 points and 16 rebounds, while his team beat Wuber-Est.Bahia (#13, 9-15) 81-71. Libertad S. is placed at 2nd position in Argentinian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Libertad S. will need more victories to improve their 17-7 record. In the team's last game Battle had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Libertad S.'s top player in his first season with the team. Drexel University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Battle is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 9.4rpg) and averages solid 1.4bpg and 61.1% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Gregory Lewis (198-F-78, agency: Dream Team Management) of La Union. He is American forward in his first season at La Union. In the last game Lewis recorded impressive double-double of 28 points and 14 rebounds. Of course he lead La Union to another comfortable win 91-75 over the lower-ranked Club 9 (#14, 8-16) being unquestionably team leader. La Union's 7th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 14-11 record is not bad and everything may still change. Lewis is a newcomer at La Union and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Devin Davis (202-F-74) of GECR Indalo (#9). Davis scored 25 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of GECR Indalo, leading his team to a 88-85overtime win against the lower-ranked Quilmes MP (#15, 7-17). GECR Indalo needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 12 victories and 12 lost games. Davis has a great season in Argentina. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.4rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80) of La Union - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Diego Romero (209-C-82) of GECR Indalo - 18 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Djibril Kante (201-C-80) of Regatas C. - 23 points and 8 rebounds
7. Fabian Ramirez (197-F/G-90) of San Mart.C. - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Ryan Humphrey (203-C/F-79) of Atenas - 20 points and 4 rebounds
9. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Obras - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Diego Gerbaudo (182-G-89) of Club 9 - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 6 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)

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

ASEAN LEAGUE

ASEAN League round 7 best performance: Brian Williams - by Eurobasket News
American center Brian Williams (208-C-87, agency: VVG Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked KL Dragons, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 30 points and 15 rebounds, while his team beat Singapore S. (#4, 4-4) 86-71. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. KL Dragons is placed at 2nd position in ASEAN League . They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. KL Dragons will need more victories to improve their 5-2 record. In the team's last game Williams had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be KL Dragons' top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Tennessee star has very solid stats this year. Williams. Williams is in league's top in points (3rd best: 24.2ppg), assists (9th best: 2.2apg) and averages impressive 55.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Jonathan Smith (206-F-82) of Satria Muda. Smith had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Satria Muda lost that game 61-77 to slightly higher-ranked Petron Blaze (#3, 5-2). Satria Muda managed to keep the same 5th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-4 record. Smith is one of the most experienced players at Satria Muda and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.9ppg (#9). He also registered 8.4 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another KL Dragons' star - American forward Tiras Wade (200-F-81, agency: Interperformances). Wade got into 30-points club by scoring 34 points in the last round. He was another key player of KL Dragons, helping his team with a 86-71 easy win against #4 ranked Singapore S. in a game of the week. KL Dragons needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 5 victories and 2 lost games. Wade has a great season in ASEAN League. After only 5 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 25.2ppg (best scorer) and assists with 4.8apg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jonathan Jones (211-C-79) of Saigon H. - 24 points and 8 rebounds
5. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79) of Philip.Patriots - 21 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Kenneth Walker (206-F/C-80) of Thailand S. - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Gentry Lewis (206-F/C-81) of Bangkok C. - 14 points and 11 rebounds
8. Douglas Thomas (206-F/C-83) of Petron Blaze - 23 points and 7 rebounds
9. Michael Earl (203-F-85) of Bangkok C. - 19 points and 9 rebounds
10. Steve Thomas (204-C/F-81) of Satria Muda - 16 points, 17 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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

AUSTRALIA

Taipans release Deba George - by Eurobasket News
The Skytrans Cairns Taipans today announced the release of George Deba (183-PG-85) from his playing contract.

As a result of breaches to the standard NBL player contract and the club's code of conduct, the club has terminated its contract with Deba effective immediately,' General Manager Mark Beecroft said,

As a community organisation it is important that players and staff adhere to this code, and this club remains committed to a policy of zero tolerance with relation to such breaches, he said.

Dean Brebner will move into the active player roster of 10.

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

Sydney search for new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
The Sydney Kings have received around 20 applicants for its NBL head coaching position, with high profile candidates from America, Australia and Asia among the hopefuls.

Applications for an interim coach for the remainder of this season and the full 2012/13 campaign closed on Tuesday, with the club looking to compile a shortlist and conduct interviews later in the week.

The position became vacant last week, when incumbent coach Ian Robilliard stood down and took over as interim chief executive following the departure of executive officer Stephen Dunn.

Robilliard's assistant Tim Hudson coached the team in last week's loss at Perth.

'The level of interest mirrors the importance of the position, there's been a lot of interest,' Robilliard said.

'A lot of high profile applications from America to Asia to Australia.'

Robilliard says he could not divulge the identity of any of the candidates but confirmed there are former NBL coaches amongst the applicants.

He says he wants to bring in a couple of external consultants to help construct a shortlist of around five and hoped to conduct interviews on Thursday or Friday.

Robilliard says there is a chance the club could make an appointment before their next match on Sunday at home to Townsville.

'If we can get someone by the weekend great, but if not I think people understand it's such an important position and we want to get it right,' Robilliard said.

'If we need to take an extra day or two or three days we will.'

Kings captain and centre Julian Khazzouh was non-committal about whether the appointment would influence his decision on whether to stay with the Kings.

'I've spoken with the club a fair bit and I think their first priority at the moment is to find a coach for next year and that's totally understandable and we'll wait and see what happens,' Khazzouh said.

'I can't wait to play this weekend and I'm looking forward to finishing off the season with the guys and if we don't play together again it's going to be a shame, but I really enjoy playing with this bunch of guys.'

Khazzouh says last week had been one of the most emotional of his basketball career, but he is confident the off-court changes will not be a distraction going into Sunday's game.

'I think it's something that we've put behind us and hopefully moving onto Townsville, we can feed off the energy and try and get that win,' he said.

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

Abercrombie's 25 points give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
24-year old swingman Thomas Abercrombie (198-F/G-87, agency: Priority Sports) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Breakers and receives a Australiabasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
He had the game-high 25 points adding three rebounds and two assists for Breakers in his team's victory, helping them to beat Hawks (#9, 6-15) 82-74. It allowed Breakers to consolidate first place in the Australian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Breakers has a very solid 16-6 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Abercrombie had a remarkable 76.9% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Breakers, through which he has constantly improved. Thomas Abercrombie averages this season 14.8ppg and 5.2rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86) of league's second-best Wildcats. He is international forward in his 3rd season at Wildcats. In the last game Wagstaff recorded impressive 25 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Wildcats to another comfortable win 91-74 over the lower-ranked Kings (#7, 8-14) being unquestionably team leader. Wildcats' second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 15-7 record is not bad at all. Wagstaff is one of the most experienced players at Wildcats and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Breakers' star - guard Cedric Jackson (191-G-86). Jackson showcased his all-around game by recording 20 points, ten rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of Breakers, helping his team with a 82-74 win against the lower-ranked Hawks (#9, 6-15). Breakers confirms their top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 16 victories and 6 lost games. Jackson has a great season in Australia. After 22 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.4rpg (9th best) and assists with 6.1apg (best passer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Adris Deleon (180-G-84) of Blaze - 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Jamar Wilson (185-PG-84) of Taipans - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Mark Worthington (202-F-83) of Blaze - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Jacob Holmes (201-F-83) of Crocodiles - 5 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Elvin Mims (196-F-79) of Crocodiles - 14 points and 10 rebounds
9. Edward Gill (184-PG-78) of Crocodiles - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Jerai Grant (203-F/C-89) of Kings - 12 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)

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

BALKAN LEAGUE

Two more games postponed - by Eurobasket News
The game from the 9th round of the regular season between KK Feni Industries and HKK Zrinjski is postponed and is not going to be played this Wednesday in Kavadarci. The Management of EUROHOLD Balkan League took this decision to support HKK Zrinjski and Bosnian Basketball League, as due to the bad weather condition in Bosnia this month the last 2 rounds of the domestic championship were postponed. Now the schedule in the former Yugoslav country is very loaded and all teams are going to have games twice per week. The new date for this important game will be announced in the next few days, after checking the most suitable option for both teams.

KK Ulcinjs games for the remainder of the 2011/2012 EUROHOLD Balkan League regular season have officially been postponed. The main reason for that is the Montenegrin clubs absolute unwillingness to fulfill their obligations to the BIBL along with the fact that they are refusing to communicate with the BIBL officials. KK Ulcinj didnt confirm anything to BC Levski regarding their game from Round 8 of the competition, which was scheduled for February 21st. The management of the EUROHLD Balkan League is going to send an official complain to the competition commitee of the League this week, informing them about all the problems and issues with KK Ulcinj, as those have started yet last season and continued in the current campaign. The competition commitee will decide how to proceed with the matter according to the official regulations of the EUROHOLD Balkan League.

Courtesy of www.balkanleague.net

Standings

Balkan League Standings

Group A
1. Galil Gilboa			6-1
2. Mornar Bar			5-3
3. Rilski Sportist			5-4
4. Timisoara			3-4
5. OKK Beograd			2-5
6. Torus Skopje			2-6
Group B
1. Levski Sofia			7-0
2. Hapoel T-A			6-2
3. Feni Indistrija			4-4
4. Napredak			4-4
5. Ulcinj			1-6
6. Zrinjski HT			1-7

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

BALTIC LEAGUE

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Siauliai			13-3
2. Triumph			11-4
3. Ventspils			11-5
4. Kalev/Cramo			11-7
5. Rudupis			10-5
6. Pieno Zvaigzdes			7-8
7. Kedainiai			7-9
8. Juventus			7-10
9. Tartu Ulikool			6-12
10. Baltai Kaunas			3-12
11. Liepaja			3-14
Challenge Cup
1. Tarvas			8-2
2. Naglis Palangos			6-4
3. Neptunas			6-4
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-6
5. Jelgava			1-7
6. Techasas			9-2
7. Sakalai			9-3
8. Valmiera			8-4
9. TTU/Kalev			3-9
10. Rapla			2-8
11. Turiba			2-8

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Bowles, Siauliai	19.3
2. Krumins, Jelgava	19.1
3. Kalve, Valmiera	18.0
4. Cipruss, Tarvas	17.8
5. Hallik, Tarvas	16.5
6. Barinov, Naglis P.	16.5
7. Pilk, TT.	16.4
8. Mayo, Liepaja	16.2
9. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	16.1
10. Laksa, Barsy Aty.	15.6

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	9.6
2. McClure, Kedainiai	9.3
3. Ringmets, Rapla	8.6
4. Nelson, Jelgava	8.2
5. Mednis, Turiba	8.0
6. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.8
7. Johnson, Naglis P.	7.8
8. Arnold, TT.	7.7
9. Bowles, Siauliai	7.4
10. Galdikas, Neptun.	7.1

Assists Per Game

Rashaun BROADUS
  Siauliai
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Broadus, Siauliai	5.3
2. Kriisa, Tarvas	5.0
3. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	4.6
4. Maceina, Juventus	4.4
5. Dainys, Neptunas	4.3
6. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
7. Benn, Naglis Palan.	4.2
8. Kulagin, Triumph	4.1
9. Janavicius, Baltai	4.0
10. Peciukeviciu., Sa.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Tywain MCKEE
  Triumph
  (188-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.7

1. McKee, Triumph	2.7
2. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
3. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
4. Benn, Naglis Palan.	2.0
5. Matulionis, Lietka.	1.8
6. Laane, Rapla	1.8
7. Akenparg, TT.	1.8
8. Keedus, TT.	1.8
9. Virsis, Valmiera	1.8
10. Evstigneev, Barsy	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	2.7
2. Rozitis, Valmiera	2.1
3. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.8
4. Gumeniuk, Juventus	1.4
5. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.4
6. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
7. Leiteris, Liepaja	0.9
8. Morgan, Pieno Z.	0.9
9. McClure, Kedainiai	0.9
10. Jefferson, Triumph	0.8

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

BULGARIA

Petko Delev: EuroBasket U-18 in going to be tough, but we have talent - by Christomir Rackov
The head coach of the Bulgaria juniors U-18 team Petko Delev predicted a really tough EuroBasket for his team in Division A. The specialist told BGbasket.com that the team's got talent though. Here are his thoughts about the championship in Latvia this summer:

'Our participation at EuroBasket will be very tough as we are the only Bulgarian national team to play in Division A. On the top of that we are in a group with the host of the championship Latvia and the strong teams of Turkey and France. Unfortunately we will have a short camp, but I hope we can figure out some good plays on offense and defense.

Despite all, I am optimistic and in my opinion there are many talented young players on our team. The most important task of the youth national teams is to develop that talent and produce players for the mens national team.

Our first goal is to win a victory in the group stage so that we keep our spot in Division A. I think we can achieve something bigger than that. When you are the underdog you could always surprise some of the favorites.'

Standings A2

Division A Standings

1. Beroe		13-0
2. Academik PL		9-3
3. Overgas		8-5
4. Academik BL		8-5
5. Vidabasket		7-6
6. Cherno More U18		6-7
7. Dunav 2007		6-7
8. Chavdar		3-10
9. Balkan 2		2-10
10. Shumen		2-11

Fresh air for Rilski sportist in BIBL - by Vladi Lazarova
Rilski sportist made the first step forward to end the team crisis after the quarterfinal nightmare for the Cup of Bulgaria. Tonight in Samokov the squad of Rosen Barchovski defeated Torus 92:74 in a game of Group A of the Balkan League. This is the fifth success for Rilski in the tournament this season. Bulgarian team came out on top in the group, but with a game more than Galil (6-1) and Mornar (5-3).

Two Serbians Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) were above all the players of Rilski tonight. Mirkovic was the best scorer in the match with 25 points and added 8 assists. Vukosavljevic spattered double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Hours before the game he got good news for his knee and so far doesn't need to undergo a surgery, but today, however, received another injury in his hand.

Hristo Zahariev (200-G/F-90) didn't appear for Rilski sportist due to a calf strain, received on the last practice. Asen Velikov (188-G-86) also left the court injured. He was hit in the knee and it is not clear when Barchovski will be able to use his three players again. The next game for the team is against Spartak (Pleven) at home this Saturday.

Follow Vladi Lazarova on Twitter: @Vladi_slava1

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

CANADA

Record crowd watches Kebs beat Storm - by Eurobasket News
A record crowd turned out for the Summerside Storms Islander Day matchup against the Quebec Kebs.

The announced crowd of 4,017 fans were treated to a fast-paced, high scoring contest that featured the home team falling just short 123-114.

Down 31-25 after the opening quarter, the Storm fought back to lead 57-52 at halftime.

Quebec outscored the Storm 34-24 in the third quarter to take an 86-81 lead after three quarters. Summerside mounted a rally, but just couldnt overcome the hot-shooting Kebs.

Storm head coach Joe Salerno said three-point shots played a role in the games outcome.

They go 10-of-19 from three, we go five-of-27 and thats a big difference, he said. We didnt shoot the ball that well, and we ran into a very good team who played well today (Monday).

Salerno said every time the Storm got within striking distance, the Kebs answered back.

It just seemed like every time we were in a striking position theyd hit big shot after big shot, Salerno said. Its tough. It can get frustrating.

I thought there were some calls that didnt go our way late in that game tonight. Its a tough loss to take.

Quebec's Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) led all scorers with 32 points while James Jackson (6'9''-F-81, college: E.Michigan) contributed 30.

Louie McCroskey (6'5''-G-85, college: Marist) was the Storms leading scorer with 23. Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati), Troy Jackson (6'4''-F-84, college: Alcorn St.) and Julian Allen all had 18 points.

Salerno said the Storm didnt get as many chances at the free-throw line as they normally do, and that was because of shot selection.

We settled for a lot of jumpers, he said. When youre not shooting the ball well, you need to get stuff going to the rim.

Kebs assistant coach Dennis Truax said he wasnt surprised at how tough the Storm played.

We had a little lull and theyre a very good team, he said. Summerside is a lot better than what their record indicates.

The guys can shoot the ball. Theyre all good players. We made some adjustments at halftime, and made a nice little run and were able to keep doing what we were doing.

Truax said the Kebs pounded the ball inside, which led to points and rebounds.

Courtesy of www.journalpioneer.com

The FIBA INittiative bringing back 3pm 3 - by John Gary
courtesy basketball ca. FIBA took the initial step in their new initiative this summer implementing a successful 3 on 3 youth Olympics held in Itlay. Just like every other country it was the first time Canada suited up two teams in 3pm 3 competition. The men's team featured Dyshawn Pierette,Markova Pirovic, Pat Stevens and Jordan Whyte while the women's included Tarjah Campbell, Paige Crazon, Isideau Purokovic and Datole White. The goal is to increase participation in basketball using this platform that would attract more participants from the regional level.

Canadian CIS round 32 best performance: Terry Thomas - by Eurobasket News
Guard Terry Thomas (193-G) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked St.Francis X., receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 32.
The -year old player was the main contributor (29 points, seven rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Memorial (#8, 1-17) with 39-point margin 103-64. It allowed St.Francis X. to consolidate first place in the Canadian CIS. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. St.Francis X. has a very solid 15-4 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Thomas had a remarkable 88.9% from 2-point range. It's his second year at St.Francis X. and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Terry Thomas averages this season 18.7ppg and 8.1rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 22-year old Vincentian forward Lien Phillip (203-F-89) of Windsor. Phillip had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds. Of course he lead Windsor to another comfortable win 79-64 over the lower-ranked Western (#7, 8-14) being unquestionably team leader. Windsor's 4th position in the standings has not changed. His team's 15-7 record is not bad at all. Phillip is one of the most experienced players at Windsor and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Taylor Black (201-C) of league's second-best McMaster. Black scored 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of McMaster, leading his team to a 93-67 easy win against #3 ranked Laurier in a game of the week. McMaster needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 17 victories and 5 lost games. Black has a very solid season. In 22 games in Canada he scored 7.3ppg. He also has 5.0rpg and FGP: 50.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Richard Iheadindu) of York - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Jimmy Dorsey (188-G) of Cape Breton - 29 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Mike Helsby (195-G/F-89) of Memorial - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Donathan Moss) of UPEI - 29 points and 10 rebounds
8. Drazen Glisic (198-F) of Toronto Univ. - 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Manny Pasquale (183-G) of Laurentian - 30 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Jimmy Dorsey (188-G) of Cape Breton - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 10 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)

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

CROATIA

Standings - A2 League

A2 Standings

Group Center
1. Dubrava		13-4
2. Sanac Karl.		12-5
3. Gorica		11-6
4. Bosco		10-6
5. Samobor		9-7
6. Kaptol		9-7
7. Mladost Z.		7-8
8. Sus.-Moslavina		7-8
9. Rudes		6-9
10. Zrinjevac		6-9
11. Hermes Anal.		4-12
12. Novska		1-15
Group East
1. Osjecki Sokol		15-1
2. Mladost C.		13-2
3. Vinkovci		12-4
4. Belisce		11-5
5. Zupanja		8-7
6. Virovitica		8-8
7. Vukovar		7-9
8. Meteor D.		6-10
9. Olimp Inspekt		5-11
10. Klasije		4-11
11. Vrijednosnice		4-11
12. Valpovo		1-14
Group North
1. Medjimurje C.		17-0
2. Vindija V.		11-5
3. Podravac Virje		11-6
4. Petar Zrinski		10-6
5. Radnik		9-7
6. Mladost D.		9-7
7. Cakovec		8-6
8. Rudar-Cimper		8-8
9. Ivancica		7-9
10. Bjelovar		3-12
11. Koprivnica		2-14
12. Graficar		0-15
Group South
1. Policnik		10-2
2. Metkovic		9-3
3. Trogir		7-5
4. Kastela		7-5
5. GKK Sibenik		7-5
6. Jazine		6-6
7. Cetina		5-7
8. Omis Galeb		4-8
9. Solin		3-9
10. Vostarnica		2-7
11. DOSK		2-10
12. Drazen Petrovic		0-0
Group West
1. Crikvenica		13-1
2. Kraljevica		12-2
3. Skrljevo		12-3
4. Stoja Pula		9-5
5. Otocac		8-6
6. Pula 1981		7-7
7. Jadran		7-7
8. Rovinj		6-9
9. Kastav		5-10
10. Ghia Staff		4-11
11. Zamet		4-11
12. Fazana		0-15

Unicaja targets Krunoslav Simon - by Eurobasket News
According to various sources, it seems that Unicaja wants to sign Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Reportedly, the Malaga squad negotiates with Simon and his team Zagreb. Simon averages 16.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.9 assists in Adriatic league (16 games) this season. In Euroleague, he registered 13.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 2.5 apg for 10 games. Simon is a product of Zagreb, where he started as a teenager and never left the club. Last season he had 16.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg and 2.9 apg in Croatia and Zagreb won the title. They also celebrated in Croatian Cup last year. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Player of the Year -11. Krunoslav Simon played for Croatian National Team at the Eurobasket 2011 in Lithuania. He had 9 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.8 apg for 5 games.

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

CYPRUS

Important announcement for all coaches - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
With the regular season over and with playoffs approaching, Eurobasket.com has run different analyses that can be useful for all teams.

IMPORTANT STATISTICS

1) All Cyprus League scoring (all teams together) averages at 78.5 pts/round. Same time last year this was at 70 pts.
2) League's best scoring teams (average)= Apollon 86.5 pts/game and Keravnos 83.1 pts/game (Ael's games in which it played without Bosman or American players are not included in the calculation for consistency purposes)
3) Best scoring team on the road= Apollon 82 pts/game and Keravnos 81 pts/game

Team - Total Point Average
Apoel=78.6
Apollon=86.5
Etha=76.8
Keravnos=83.1
Omonoia=77.7
Enad=74.3
Aek=74.3
Ael=76.6

Team - Home Court Average
Apoel=83.4
Apollon=91.3
Etha=79.3
Keravnos=85.5
Omonoia=77.3
Enad=76
Aek=76.4
Ael=73.8

Team - On the Road Average
Apoel=73.9
Apollon=81.7
Etha=74.6
Keravnos=80.7
Omonoia=78
Enad=72.9
Aek=71
Ael=81.3

4) League's worst scoring team (average)= Enad and Aek =74.3 pts/game
5) League's best defensive team = Keravnos accepting 70.2 pts/game
6) League's best turnover team= Keravnos, averages 13.3 turnovers /game - besides its ability to score high, Keravnos wins mainly because it accepts a low average of points plus it keeps its turnovers low.
7) League's top scorer =Subotic - Aek
8) Leagues top rebounder= Garcia - Aek and Watkins - Etha
9) Leagues top stealer = Panteli - Aek
10) Leagues top assist man=Nicolas Papadopoulos - Omonoia

Conclusion about the regular season

1)It looks like Keravnos has been the most stable team. It has the 2nd best offense and the best defense in the league and the best turnover average.
2)5 teams will battle for the championship (AEK, Apoel, Apollon, Etha and Keravnos).
3)ONLY 4 teams (Apoel, Apollon, Keravnos, Etha) have a positive indicator (score more pts than they accept).
4)ONLY 3 teams, Apoel, Keravnos and Apollon have been scoring above the cutoff point (78).
5)Keravnos and Apollon have been the two best scoring teams so far.
6)Keravnos has been the best defensive team so far with 70.2 points.
7)Strange but true, Aek has the league's top scorer, rebounder and stealer.

Note:

Statistics are provided by the Cyprus Statistical Service BUT are processed and analysed by eurobasket.com.

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		21-1
2. Sparta Praha		18-4
3. Opava B		16-6
4. Proton Zlin		15-7
5. Sokol H.Kralove		14-8
6. Sokol Prazsky		13-9
7. Liberec		10-12
8. Trutnov		10-12
9. Vysehrad		10-12
10. Litomerice		8-14
11. Prostejov B		8-14
12. Benesov		8-14
13. Mlada Boleslav		2-20
14. Kladno		1-21

EuroChallenge: Fuenlabrada wins Group K - by Eurobasket News
Fuenlabrada- BK Pardubice 85:70

Fuenlabrada wins EuroChallenge Group K even with one more game remaining. The Spanish side continued their streak and reached 5-0 record on top after 85:70 victory over BK Pardubice.
Pardubice started better and took 20:17 after the first 10 minutes. The second quarter however was a nightmare for the guests that saw 32 points in their basket. Blanco gave his side 49:36 at the halftime and Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85) increased to 65:50. Pardubice did not go away, and battled their back to within single figures at the start of the fourth quarter when Ondrej Peterka's three-pointer made it 69:61. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) scored for 73:62 and Leonardo Mainoldi delivered two for 83:66. Kirk Penney and later Maurice Hampton (188-SG-84, college: Austin Peay St.) were the last players to score for their teams.
Adrian Laso (204-F/C-90) stepped up with 23 points and Leonardo Mainoldi added 18. Kirk Penney delivered 12, whilst Alvaro Munoz (195-SF-90) scored 9. Maurice Hampton ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) netted 13. Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International, college: Illinois) brought 12 and Peterka produced 11.

Fuenlabrada: Adrian Laso 23, Leonardo Mainoldi 18, Kirk Penney 12, Alvaro Munoz 9
BK Pardubice: Maurice Hampton 20, Corey Muirhead 13, Marcus Arnold 12, Peterka 11

1Liga Round 22: Top-ranked BK Lions Hradec wins another game - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

1Liga top team - BK Lions Hradec (21-1) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed seventh ranked BK Kondori Liberec (10-12) 85-62. BK Lions Hradec maintains first position with 21-1 record. BK Kondori Liberec at the other side keeps the seventh place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Vysehrad and Trutnov. BK Lions Hradec are looking forward to face Mlada Boleslav (#13) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Kondori Liberec will play against Kara Trutnov (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Praha was also worth to mention about. 4th ranked Proton Zlin (15-7) played at the court of sixth ranked Sokol Prazsky (13-9). Sokol Prazsky did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 90-71. Sokol Prazsky maintains sixth position with 13-9 record. Proton Zlin at the other side keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. Sokol Prazsky will play against higher ranked B&W Opava B (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Proton Zlin will play against Sokol Hradec Kralove and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Kara Trutnov (10-12) and BC Benesov (8-14), which took place in Benesov. Higher ranked Kara Trutnov lost to twelfth ranked BC Benesov in a road game 75-92 on Sunday. BC Benesov moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Litomerice and Prostejov B. Kara Trutnov lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost. They share it with Vysehrad and Liberec. BC Benesov will meet bottom-ranked Kladno (#14) on the road in the next round. Kara Trutnov will play against BK Kondori Liberec (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between ninth ranked Sokol Vysehrad (10-12) and 10th ranked Slavoj BK Litomerice (8-14) in Vysehrad ended with biggest points difference. Sokol Vysehrad outscored guests from Litomerice 100-63. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Slavoj BK Litomerice. Sokol Vysehrad have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Trutnov and Liberec. Slavoj BK Litomerice at the other side keeps the tenth position with 14 games lost. Sokol Vysehrad's next round opponent will be BK Prostejov B (#11) on the road. Slavoj BK Litomerice will play against the league's second-placed Sparta Praha having rather not much hope for a victory.

Other games in round 22 were not that significant. Bottom-ranked Kladno was beaten by Sparta Praha on the road 73-56. Opava B destroyed Prostejov B on its own court 79-55. Sokol H.Kralove outscored Mlada Boleslav in Hradec Kralove 100-76.

Sparta Praha - Kladno 73-56

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Sparta Praha (18-4) beat at home bottom-ranked Kladno (1-21) 73-56. The game was mostly controlled by Sparta Praha. Kladno was better in third quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Kladno to just 6 points in fourth quarter. Sparta Praha have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 18-4 record having just three points less than leader J.Hradec. Kladno lost tenth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 21 lost games. Sparta Praha's next round opponent will be Slavoj BK Litomerice (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Kladno will play against BC Benesov (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Vysehrad - Litomerice 100-63

The game between ninth ranked Sokol Vysehrad (10-12) and 10th ranked Slavoj BK Litomerice (8-14) in Vysehrad ended with biggest points difference. Sokol Vysehrad outscored guests from Litomerice 100-63. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Slavoj BK Litomerice. Sokol Vysehrad have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Trutnov and Liberec. Slavoj BK Litomerice at the other side keeps the tenth position with 14 games lost. Sokol Vysehrad's next round opponent will be BK Prostejov B (#11) on the road. Slavoj BK Litomerice will play against the league's second-placed Sparta Praha having rather not much hope for a victory.

Opava B - Prostejov B 79-55

Very expected game when 11th ranked BK Prostejov B (8-14) was smashed on the road by fourth ranked B&W Opava B (16-6) 79-55. B&W Opava B moved-up to third place. BK Prostejov B at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 14 games lost. B&W Opava B's next round opponent will be Sokol Prazsky (#6) in Praha. BK Prostejov B will play at home against Sokol Vysehrad (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Sokol Prazsky - Proton Zlin 90-71

The game in Praha was also worth to mention about. 4th ranked Proton Zlin (15-7) played at the court of sixth ranked Sokol Prazsky (13-9). Sokol Prazsky did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 90-71. The game was mostly controlled by Sokol Prazsky. Proton Zlin was better in second period 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sokol Prazsky maintains sixth position with 13-9 record. Proton Zlin at the other side keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. Sokol Prazsky will play against higher ranked B&W Opava B (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Proton Zlin will play against Sokol Hradec Kralove and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Mlada Boleslav - Sokol H.Kralove 76-100

Very predictable result when fifth ranked Sokol Hradec Kralove (14-8) rolled over on the road 13th ranked Mlada Boleslav (2-20) 100-76. The game without a history. Sokol Hradec Kralove led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Sokol Hradec Kralove have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 14-8 record. Mlada Boleslav lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the thirteenth place with 20 games lost. Sokol Hradec Kralove's next round opponent will be higher ranked Proton Zlin (#4) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Mlada Boleslav will play against the league's leader BK Lions Hradec (#1) in J.Hradec.

Liberec - J.Hradec 62-85

1Liga top team - BK Lions Hradec (21-1) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed seventh ranked BK Kondori Liberec (10-12) 85-62. BK Lions Hradec maintains first position with 21-1 record. BK Kondori Liberec at the other side keeps the seventh place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Vysehrad and Trutnov. BK Lions Hradec are looking forward to face Mlada Boleslav (#13) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. BK Kondori Liberec will play against Kara Trutnov (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Benesov - Trutnov 92-75

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Kara Trutnov (10-12) and BC Benesov (8-14), which took place in Benesov. Higher ranked Kara Trutnov lost to twelfth ranked BC Benesov in a road game 75-92 on Sunday. BC Benesov moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Litomerice and Prostejov B. Kara Trutnov lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost. They share it with Vysehrad and Liberec. BC Benesov will meet bottom-ranked Kladno (#14) on the road in the next round. Kara Trutnov will play against BK Kondori Liberec (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

EuroCup: VEF Riga tame Nymburk in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk - VEF Riga 80:84 (OT)

VEF Riga gained a crucial win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Nymburk on the road to climb at 3-2 record in Group I. Nymburk in the meantime were left at 2-3 record and with little chances of reaching the next stage. Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) fired 21 points to lead the visitors.
Nymburk seemed to stay in control in the first half. The Czech champions recorded a 25:23 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the gap to three points at halftime 39:36. But the third term turned things upside down for the hosts. VEF Riga ignited a 19:9 run to take a 7-point lead before the fourth frame. Nymburk showed character erasing the deficit in a nail-biting regulation finale. But VEF Riga was determined to bring victory from Czech Republic. The Latvian powerhouse knocked down 16 points in overtime and rolled to the victory at the end. Sandis Valters (193-G-78) delivered 16 points, while Gatis Jahovics (200-F-84) had 13 points in the win. Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Chester Simmons (198-G-82, college: Washington) nailed 19 points in the loss.

Nymburk: Petr Benda 22, Chester Simmons 19
VEF Riga: Dairis Bertans 21, Sandis Valters 16, Gatis Jahovics 13

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

D-LEAGUE

Rockets recall Marcus Morris from Rio Grande Valley - by Eurobasket News
Rookie forward Marcus Morris (6'8''-F-89, college: Kansas) is happy the Houston Rockets have recalled him from their NBA D-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

'It means a lot, happy to be back, happy to be back with my team and just ready to move forward,' Morris said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.

'It's real special. I'm just ready to get to work.'

Morris believes he can help the Rockets.

'Versatility. Just one of those guys that can play different positions and guard different positions,' Morris said.

Morris, the 14th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, averaged 22.8 points and 9.1 rebounds in the ten full games he has played for the Vipers.

'I think it helped me get into better shape, playing more,' Morris said.

Courtesy of www.myfoxhouston.com

Manny Harris named D-League Performer of Week - by Eurobasket News
Manny Harris (6'5''-G-89, college: Michigan) of the Canton Charge was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played Feb. 13-19, when the Charge went 2-0. The announcement marks the second time Harris has been named NBA D-League Performer of the Week. He also earned the honor on Jan. 30. With the honor, he becomes the first player to twice be named NBA D-League Performer of the Week during the 2011-12 season.

Harris, a 6-5, 185-pound guard from Michigan averaged 41.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 6.0 assists while shooting 58 percent from the floor last week. He recorded a season-high 46 points in a 136-113 win over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Feb. 16 before finishing the week with a 36-point outing on Feb. 18 as the Charged swept the two-game series with the Vipers 135-132.

For the season, Harris is averaging 21.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 17 games for Canton.

Other top performers considered included Cantons Antoine Agudio, who averaged 26.5 points and 5.0 rebounds in two games; Maines Morris Almond, who averaged 124.0 points and 4.0 rebounds in two games; Idahos Marcus Banks, who averaged 17.0 points and 5.0 assists in four games; Rio Grande Valleys Will Conroy, who averaged 16.0 points and 16.3 assists in three games; Texas Antonio Daniels who averaged 11.7 points and 12.3 rebounds in three games; Dakotas Marcus Dove, who averaged 19.0 points and 8.5 rebounds in two games; Iowas Mike Efevberha, who averaged 27.0 points and 5.0 rebounds in three games; Bakersfields Osiris Eldridge, who averaged 24.5 points and 5.0 rebounds in two games; Sioux Falls Trey Gilder, who averaged 28.5 points and 14.5 rebounds in two games; Los Angeles Gerald Green, who averaged 22.0 points and 4.0 rebounds in two games; Springfields Dennis Horner, who averaged 18.5 points and 8.5 rebounds in two games; Fort Waynes Ron Howard, who averaged 20.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in three games; Eries D.J. Kennedy, who averaged 23.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in two games; Tulsas Marcus Lewis, who averaged 18.0 points and 11.0 rebounds in three games; Austins Leo Lyons, who averaged 20.3 points and 10.5 rebounds in four games and Renos Bobby Simmons, who averaged 19.0 points and 12.0 rebounds in two games.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Iowa E. - Ft.Wayne MA 111-88
The 2011 NBA D-League Champion Iowa Energy will head into the All-Star break on a two game win streak after downing the Ft. Wayne Mad Ants 111-88 Tuesday night. Iowa led the entire game in completing the two-game sweep of the Mad Ants. Iowa scorched the nets early, taking a 32-24 lead after the 1 st quarter. Ft. Wayne fought back in the 2 nd quarter, narrowing the margin to 50-45 on a Ron Howard buzzer-beating layup to give the visitors some momentum heading into the locker room. A 6-0 run midway through the 3 rd quarter, capped by a Michael Efevberha (6'7''-G-84, college: CS Northridge) dunk, put the Energy up 70-59 with 3:32 remaining. Prior to the score, Ft. Wayne's Sadiel Rojas landed awkwardly after a dunk attempt. After being tended to by team doctors, Rojas was transported to a local hospital to determine the extent of his injuries. After the 20 minute delay, Ft. Wayne rattled off five straight points to draw to within 70-64. With the momentum seeming to have switched back in favor of the Mad Ants, the Energy went on a 6-1 run to reclaim a commanding 76-65 lead. The 4 th quarter was all Energy as the Eastern Conference leaders outscored Ft. Wayne 33-18 to coast to the 111-88 victory. The win is the 21 st of the season for Iowa, which improves to 21-11 on the year. Ft. Wayne falls to 10-25 on the season, and heads into the break with a nine game losing streak. Michael Efevberha led Iowa with 25 points and 15 rebounds while Andrew Drevo added a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Point guard Curtis Stinson (6'3''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) contributed 19 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in the game for the Energy, who outrebounded Ft. Wayne 56 to 37 in the game. Moses Ehambe (15 points), Nick Murphy (12) and Patrick Ewing Jr. (11) also reached double-figure scoring for Iowa in the game. Ron Howard led Ft. Wayne with 22 points and 9 rebounds while Darnell Lazare added 20 points and 8 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Reno B. - Idaho S. 126-116
Marcus Banks (6'2''-G-81, college: UNLV) scored 22 points in just 21 minutes and six other Stampeders scored in double-figures, but it wasn't enough as the Reno Bighorns beat the Idaho Stampede 126-116. The Stampede (14-19) shot 51.9 percent from the field and made 29-of-35 free throws (82.9 percent), but were outshot by Reno, who had four players score 20 or more points, including Blake Ahearn (6'2''-PG-84, college: Missouri St.), who totaled 33 points (5-10 3FG, 10-10 FT). Idaho allowed 52.1 percent shooting from the field, 15-of-28 (53.6 percent) from behind the three-point line and sent the Bighorns to the free throw line 40 times, where they made 37. Paul Carter had 15 points, Mikki Moore totaled 15 points and nine rebounds, Seth Tarver and Tony Bobbitt each had 14 points, David Bailey added 13 and Devin Green scored 11 points. Reggie Larry, Antoine Walker and Chris Davis, re-acquired earlier in the day, each tallied four. The Bighorns three other scorers with 20 or more were Josh Selby (23 points), Zach Graham (21 points) and Bobby Simmons (20 points, nine rebounds). Idaho leaves to play at Los Angeles tomorrow at 8 p.m. (MST). *Courtesy of www.oursportcentral.com

Tulsa 66ers - Maine RC 84-86
Kenny Hayes (6'2''-PG-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Miami, OH) hit a jump shot with two-tenths of a second left to lift the Maine Red Claws to an 86-84 victory over the Tulsa 66ers Tuesday night at the Tulsa Convention Center. The basket stopped a fourth-quarter rally by the 66ers (16-20), who trailed 71-63 with 10:05 left, and avenged a 108-83 blowout on Jan. 7 at Tulsa. The Red Claws (13-12), who ended a four-game slide, are 5-5 in their last 10 games. They play at Rio Grande Valley tonight. Maine led by as many as 11 in the second half after going ahead 48-42 at the end of the second quarter. Tulsa recovered on the shooting of Xavier Alexander, who scored all 10 of his points in the fourth quarter. Alexander started an 11-3 run with a 3-pointer and a field goal to make it 71-68 with 8:59 left. Delroy James followed with a dunk and gave Tulsa the lead, 72-71, on its next possession with a layup. Craig Brackins (6'10''-F-87, college: Iowa St.) got the lead back for Maine with a 3-pointer. The teams then traded points with Morris Almond tying it at 84 on a layup with 53 seconds left. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Springfield A. - Bakersfield J. 114-101
Perfection, thy name is February. The Springfield Armor struggled for much of Monday night, but they put it all together in the fourth quarter and rallied to beat the Bakersfield Jam 114-101 before 2,222 at the MassMutual Center. The Armor (21-13), who will not play again until March 2 at Maine, went the entire month of February without a loss. Springfield came out of January at .500 but have won eight straight entering the All-Star Game break. 'We really got it rolling and it's good because we were able to finish games in a multitude of ways,'' Armor guard Jerry Smith (6'2''-G-87, college: Louisville) said. 'They gave us a really good challenge today and we stuck with it and finished it out at the end.'' Smith, who will head to Orlando, Fla., with teammates Jeff Foote (7'0''-C-88, college: Cornell), Jameson Curry (6'4''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) and L.D. Williams (6'4''-G-88, college: Wake Forest) for the D-League All-Star Game, scored a game-high 24 points with six assists and four steals. He had plenty of help as three of his teammates had doubles-doubles. Curry had 16 points and 10 assists, Dennis Horner 21 points and 12 rebounds and Foote 21 points and 14 rebounds. Not bad for a team that was losing at halftime. The Armor only trailed in games twice this month and never by more than four points. Monday they found themselves down by 10 to the Jam at halftime, 55-45. Fortunately for Springfield, the lead never got any larger than that. 'We came in at halftime and we were struggling with some of our pick-and-roll coverages,'' Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. 'We made an adjustment and I think our guys really clicked on the adjustment and did a much better job of guarding it the second half.'' The Jam (17-15), coming off a win over Maine on Sunday, overcame a five-point deficit at the end of the first quarter by outscoring the Armor 30-16 in the second quarter. They were 10 for 19 from the floor and 9 of 10 from the foul line. For the half Bakersfield had just six turnovers and the highlight reel of the day when Osiris Eldridge (6'3''-G-88, agency: 011 Sports, college: Illinois St.), who will compete in the D-League dunk contest this weekend against defending champion Williams, threw down a 360 degree dunk. It was a different game in the second half. Where Renaldo Major (15 of 21 points in first half) Juan Pattillo and Jamie Vanderbeken were dominating the inside game for the Jam in the first half, Foote and Horner took over the second half. A 12-2 run to start the second half tied the game at 57-57. Horner and Foote scored half the points and Smith the other half, including a steal and dunk. Despite playing better, the Armor could not pull away. In fact, the saw a one-point lead turn into a five-point deficit right before the third quarter ended as Derrick Byars (18 points) hit a 3-pointer and Eldridge (22 points) completed a 3-point play for an 82-77 lead. But the fourth quarter was all Armor. 'They're a good team, they were down 18 at Maine and came back and won handily,'' MacKinnon said. 'Derrick Byars is a heck of a player and Renaldo Major was giving us fits in the first half and Eldridge had 52 in a game this year. I don't think I've scored 52 in my life. 'They have guys that can put the ball in the basket and score and I thought our second half focus defensively was much better,'' MacKinnon added. When Foote hit a left-handed hook in the lane with about four minutes to play, the Armor had the lead back for good. Williams followed with a putback dunk. After Major made a pair of foul shots, Smith and Horner combined to make 3 of 4 foul shots, then Williams went the length of the court for a one-handed dunk to signal the end for the Jam. 'Those guys are professionals and in the first half they were making shots,'' Smith said. 'In the second half we really wanted to strap down on defense and make our run and we were able to do it on the defensive end.'' Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Dakota W. - Sioux Falls S. 117-98
Returning home from a successful road trip, the Dakota Wizards kept the good vibes going. Fresh off a two-and-a-half week journey, the Wizards were back in the Civic Center and back in the win column, posting a 117-98 victory over the Sioux Falls Skyforce on Monday night. Shaking off a slow start, the Wizards built a double-digit lead early and never trailed while stretching their season-best winning streak to four games. Dakota posted its fifth win in six matchups with Sioux Falls, 'I was pleased with the way with stuck with it,' Wizards coach Nate Bjorkgren said. 'There were some runs in and out but we were able to counter some of those runs as the game went on. 'We came up with some great stops along the way and I liked the way we attacked in the fourth quarter.' Edwin Ubiles (6'6''-G/F-86, college: Siena), who will represent the Wizards in the D-League All-Star Game, scored 18 of his 22 points in the first half to help stake Dakota to an early lead. Mike Anderson scored 23 of his 24 after the intermission and hit some big shots as the Wizards pulled away. Anderson said the long road trip was beneficial. 'We've been on the road for two and a half weeks, we've had a lot of time bonding, a lot of camaraderie,' Anderson said. 'We haven't been practicing real hard, but efficiently, getting down the fundamental principles on defense.' The Wizards started to put things together on the road trip, and showed the results back at home. 'We've been playing together on both ends of the floor,' Bjorkgren said. 'Playing team defense and sharing the ball on offense. Things work out well when you're doing that.' Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri) hit 11 of 16 shots from the field and finished with a game-high 26 points for the Wizards (17-14). Hannah came into the game averaging nearly 15 points since being acquired by Dakota last month. 'Different guys were able to perform at a high level in different parts of the game,' Bjorkgren said. 'Edwin, Mike, Stef ... I'm sure I'm forgetting some ... they all had their moments.' Ubiles and Marcus Dove (6'9''-F-85, college: Oklahoma St.) each scored eight first-quarter points as the Wizards took the lead early. Dakota reeled off a 10-2 run punctuated by Ubiles hitting a long two-point jumper and then finishing in transition. The Wizards closed the period scoring eight of the final 10 points for a 28-15 lead. Dakota stretched the lead to as many as 16 points in the second quarter. Back-to-back baskets by Shy Ely, the second coming as the shot clock ran out, gave the Wizards a 38-22 advantage with 7:44 left in the half. The Skyforce countered with its best stretch of the first half, trimming the deficit to eight points before Ubiles stopped Sioux Falls' momentum with a dunk with 2:54 left in the half. Hannah and Anderson hit three-pointers and Hannah finished in transition as the Wizards took control early in the second half. Anderson contributed nine points in a 12-4 burst that gave Dakota a 75-58 lead. 'Anderson played well tonight,' Bjorkgren said. 'I want him to play good defense and rebound and he also finished strong on some shots tonight.' Ely opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer and finished strong on a fast break off a Sioux Falls turnover to make it a 20-point Wizards margin. Minutes later, a 3-pointer from Hannah and a dunk by Anderson in transition made it 97-74. 'We're a good team in transition,' Anderson said. 'We're fun to watch when we're playing like that.' Dakota scored 25 points in transition to the Skyforce's 18. The Wizards also had the edge in the paint (60-52) and on the offensive glass (15-11 in second-chance points). Trey Gilder (6'9''-F-85, college: Northwestern St.) led Sioux Falls (9-25) with 20 points. Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's) had 19, Brian Hamilton 17 and Nick Covington 10. Marquis Blakely had a game-high 12 rebounds to go along with nine points. Dove grabbed 11 rebounds and Anderson 10 as the Wizards outrebounded the Skyforce 53-41. Maurice Baker dished out a game-high 10 assists as Dakota won for the eighth time in 12 home games. 'I think we're hitting our stride at the right time,' Anderson said. 'We had a chance to finish off strong, get a few days off and get back in the gym.' After the all-star game this weekend, Dakota hosts Iowa on Tuesday and Bakersfield on Wednesday. Courtesy of http://bismarcktribune.com

Canton deals for veteran forward - by Eurobasket News
A week after missing out on adding a veteran forward, the Charge have tried again.

The Charge acquired Terrance Thomas (6'6''-F-80, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Baylor) on Monday from the Reno Bighorns for a third-round pick in next years draft.

Thomas, a 31-year-old Baylor product, averaged 12.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 30 games (18 starts) for Reno.

The 6-foot-6, 230-pound Thomas is a veteran of 125 NBA Development League games and has played professionally in Luxembourg, Latvia, Germany, Turkey and Mexico.

Im excited that we were able to add a veteran like Terrance to our group, Charge general manager Wes Wilcox said. Hes an experienced Development League player and a guy who has a great deal of experience around the world. Hes also a very good rebounder and a defender with toughness. Hes got a very physical streak to him.

The trade was part of a three-team deal. Reno turned around and traded the draft pick to Rio Grande Valley for Ernest Scott.

The Charge had three third-round picks in next years draft. To get Thomas, they sent the third-round pick they acquired in early January from Sioux Falls for Trey Gilder. The Charge roster is now at 10.

The Charge tried to trade Frank Hassell to Erie for veteran forward Sharrod Ford last week, but that trade was voided when Hassell failed Eries physical.

The 6-9 Ford is an athletic, shot-blocking big man. Thomas is a rugged 3-man who will play inside and out.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

Wizards return home, beat Sioux Falls - by Eurobasket News
Returning home from a successful road trip, the Dakota Wizards kept the good vibes going.

Fresh off a two-and-a-half week journey, the Wizards were back in the Civic Center and back in the win column, posting a 117-98 victory over the Sioux Falls Skyforce on Monday night.

Shaking off a slow start, the Wizards built a double-digit lead early and never trailed while stretching their season-best winning streak to four games. Dakota posted its fifth win in six matchups with Sioux Falls, 'I was pleased with the way with stuck with it,' Wizards coach Nate Bjorkgren said. 'There were some runs in and out but we were able to counter some of those runs as the game went on.

'We came up with some great stops along the way and I liked the way we attacked in the fourth quarter.'

Edwin Ubiles (6'6''-G/F-86, college: Siena), who will represent the Wizards in the D-League All-Star Game, scored 18 of his 22 points in the first half to help stake Dakota to an early lead. Mike Anderson (6'7''-F-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: VCU) scored 23 of his 24 after the intermission and hit some big shots as the Wizards pulled away.

Anderson said the long road trip was beneficial.

'We've been on the road for two and a half weeks, we've had a lot of time bonding, a lot of camaraderie,' Anderson said. 'We haven't been practicing real hard, but efficiently, getting down the fundamental principles on defense.'

The Wizards started to put things together on the road trip, and showed the results back at home.

'We've been playing together on both ends of the floor,' Bjorkgren said. 'Playing team defense and sharing the ball on offense. Things work out well when you're doing that.'

Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri) hit 11 of 16 shots from the field and finished with a game-high 26 points for the Wizards (17-14). Hannah came into the game averaging nearly 15 points since being acquired by Dakota last month.

'Different guys were able to perform at a high level in different parts of the game,' Bjorkgren said. 'Edwin, Mike, Stef ... I'm sure I'm forgetting some ... they all had their moments.'

Ubiles and Marcus Dove (6'9''-F-85, college: Oklahoma St.) each scored eight first-quarter points as the Wizards took the lead early. Dakota reeled off a 10-2 run punctuated by Ubiles hitting a long two-point jumper and then finishing in transition. The Wizards closed the period scoring eight of the final 10 points for a 28-15 lead.

Dakota stretched the lead to as many as 16 points in the second quarter. Back-to-back baskets by Shy Ely, the second coming as the shot clock ran out, gave the Wizards a 38-22 advantage with 7:44 left in the half.

The Skyforce countered with its best stretch of the first half, trimming the deficit to eight points before Ubiles stopped Sioux Falls' momentum with a dunk with 2:54 left in the half.

Hannah and Anderson hit three-pointers and Hannah finished in transition as the Wizards took control early in the second half.

Anderson contributed nine points in a 12-4 burst that gave Dakota a 75-58 lead.

'Anderson played well tonight,' Bjorkgren said. 'I want him to play good defense and rebound and he also finished strong on some shots tonight.'

Ely opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer and finished strong on a fast break off a Sioux Falls turnover to make it a 20-point Wizards margin. Minutes later, a 3-pointer from Hannah and a dunk by Anderson in transition made it 97-74.

'We're a good team in transition,' Anderson said. 'We're fun to watch when we're playing like that.'

Dakota scored 25 points in transition to the Skyforce's 18. The Wizards also had the edge in the paint (60-52) and on the offensive glass (15-11 in second-chance points).

Trey Gilder (6'9''-F-85, college: Northwestern St.) led Sioux Falls (9-25) with 20 points. Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's) had 19, Brian Hamilton 17 and Nick Covington 10. Marquis Blakely had a game-high 12 rebounds to go along with nine points.

Dove grabbed 11 rebounds and Anderson 10 as the Wizards outrebounded the Skyforce 53-41. Maurice Baker dished out a game-high 10 assists as Dakota won for the eighth time in 12 home games.

'I think we're hitting our stride at the right time,' Anderson said.

'We had a chance to finish off strong, get a few days off and get back in the gym.'

After the all-star game this weekend, Dakota hosts Iowa on Tuesday and Bakersfield on Wednesday.

Courtesy of http://bismarcktribune.com

Springfield Armor beat Jam to complete undefeated month of February - by Eurobasket News
Perfection, thy name is February.

The Springfield Armor struggled for much of Monday night, but they put it all together in the fourth quarter and rallied to beat the Bakersfield Jam 114-101 before 2,222 at the MassMutual Center.

The Armor (21-13), who will not play again until March 2 at Maine, went the entire month of February without a loss. Springfield came out of January at .500 but have won eight straight entering the All-Star Game break.

'We really got it rolling and it's good because we were able to finish games in a multitude of ways,'' Armor guard Jerry Smith (6'2''-G-87, college: Louisville) said. 'They gave us a really good challenge today and we stuck with it and finished it out at the end.''

Smith, who will head to Orlando, Fla., with teammates Jeff Foote (7'0''-C-88, college: Cornell), Jameson Curry (6'4''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) and L.D. Williams (6'4''-G-88, college: Wake Forest) for the D-League All-Star Game, scored a game-high 24 points with six assists and four steals.

He had plenty of help as three of his teammates had doubles-doubles. Curry had 16 points and 10 assists, Dennis Horner 21 points and 12 rebounds and Foote 21 points and 14 rebounds.

Not bad for a team that was losing at halftime. The Armor only trailed in games twice this month and never by more than four points. Monday they found themselves down by 10 to the Jam at halftime, 55-45.

Fortunately for Springfield, the lead never got any larger than that.

'We came in at halftime and we were struggling with some of our pick-and-roll coverages,'' Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. 'We made an adjustment and I think our guys really clicked on the adjustment and did a much better job of guarding it the second half.''

The Jam (17-15), coming off a win over Maine on Sunday, overcame a five-point deficit at the end of the first quarter by outscoring the Armor 30-16 in the second quarter. They were 10 for 19 from the floor and 9 of 10 from the foul line.

For the half Bakersfield had just six turnovers and the highlight reel of the day when Osiris Eldridge (6'3''-G-88, agency: 011 Sports, college: Illinois St.), who will compete in the D-League dunk contest this weekend against defending champion Williams, threw down a 360 degree dunk.

It was a different game in the second half. Where Renaldo Major (15 of 21 points in first half) Juan Pattillo and Jamie Vanderbeken were dominating the inside game for the Jam in the first half, Foote and Horner took over the second half.

A 12-2 run to start the second half tied the game at 57-57. Horner and Foote scored half the points and Smith the other half, including a steal and dunk.

Despite playing better, the Armor could not pull away. In fact, the saw a one-point lead turn into a five-point deficit right before the third quarter ended as Derrick Byars (18 points) hit a 3-pointer and Eldridge (22 points) completed a 3-point play for an 82-77 lead.

But the fourth quarter was all Armor.

'They're a good team, they were down 18 at Maine and came back and won handily,'' MacKinnon said. 'Derrick Byars is a heck of a player and Renaldo Major was giving us fits in the first half and Eldridge had 52 in a game this year. I don't think I've scored 52 in my life.

'They have guys that can put the ball in the basket and score and I thought our second half focus defensively was much better,'' MacKinnon added.

When Foote hit a left-handed hook in the lane with about four minutes to play, the Armor had the lead back for good. Williams followed with a putback dunk.

After Major made a pair of foul shots, Smith and Horner combined to make 3 of 4 foul shots, then Williams went the length of the court for a one-handed dunk to signal the end for the Jam.

'Those guys are professionals and in the first half they were making shots,'' Smith said. 'In the second half we really wanted to strap down on defense and make our run and we were able to do it on the defensive end.''

Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		21-11
2. Springfield A.		21-13
3. Dakota W.		17-14
4. Canton C.		17-16
5. Erie Bay H.		15-17
6. Maine RC		13-21
7. Ft.Wayne MA		10-25
8. Sioux Falls S.		9-25
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		25-10
2. Austin T.		21-12
3. Rio Grande VV		20-16
4. Bakersfield J.		17-15
5. Reno B.		17-18
6. Texas L.		17-18
7. Tulsa 66ers		16-20
8. Idaho S.		14-19

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 24.4

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	24.4
2. Emmett, Reno B.	23.7
3. Dentmon, Austin T.	22.5
4. Harris, Canton C.	21.4
5. Costner, Los A.	20.9
6. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	20.6
7. Ubiles, Dakota W.	20.3
8. Green, Los A.	19.8
9. Mitchell, Sioux F.	19.6
10. Millsap, Los A.	18.7

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 13

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	13.0
2. Dawson, Austin T.	10.1
3. Milligan, Canton C.	8.9
4. Criswell-L., Austi.	8.9
5. Williams, Texas L.	8.8
6. Daniels, Erie B.	8.6
7. Andrews, Los A.	8.6
8. Foote, Springfield	8.5
9. Dyer, Texas L.	8.2
10. Reid, Tulsa 66ers	8.1

Assists Per Game

William CONROY
  Rio G.
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 10.1

1. Conroy, Rio G.	10.1
2. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	9.9
3. Curry, Springfield	6.4
4. Wise, Bakersfield	6.3
5. Stinson, Iowa E.	6.1
6. Baker, Dakota W.	6.0
7. Bailey, Idaho S.	5.9
8. Ewing, Iowa E.	5.6
9. Fortson, Los A.	5.5
10. Coleman, Sioux F.	5.4

Steals Per Game

Dominique COLEMAN
  Sioux F.
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Coleman, Sioux F.	2.4
2. Fortson, Los A.	2.1
3. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	1.9
4. Baker, Dakota W.	1.9
5. Curry, Springfield	1.9
6. Stinson, Iowa E.	1.9
7. Emmett, Reno B.	1.8
8. Millsap, Los A.	1.8
9. Smith, Springfield	1.8
10. Dyson, Tulsa 66e.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Foster, Idaho S.	2.9
2. Williams, Texas L.	2.5
3. Saunders, Rio G.	2.4
4. Daniels, Erie B.	2.1
5. Hill, Maine RC	1.8
6. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.8
7. Dawson, Austin T.	1.7
8. Dove, Dakota W.	1.7
9. Kent, Maine RC	1.6
10. Blakely, Iowa E.	1.5

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

EBA

Standings

EBA Standings

Northern Division
1. New York W.		6-1
2. HV Hype		6-1
3. Philadelphia L.		1-5
4. NYC Jaguars		0-5
Southern Division
1. M. All-Stars		6-0
2. Washington M.		3-5
3. NoVa Hawks		2-3
4. Harrisburg H.		2-4
5. Winchester S.		2-4

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. Tartu Ulikool		18-2
2. Kalev/Cramo		14-2
3. Tarvas		13-6
4. Rapla		11-9
5. TTU/Kalev		9-10
6. Tln Kalev		8-15
7. Parnu		3-17
8. Valga/CKE		3-18

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Va.
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20

1. Strupovics, Va.	20.0
2. Raadik, Parnu	19.0
3. Soo, Rapla	18.0
4. Pilk, TT.	17.8
5. Cipruss, Tarvas	17.6
6. Raley-Ross, Tln K.	17.5
7. Raap, Parnu	16.3
8. Veideman, Tartu U.	15.6
9. Arnold, TT.	14.3
10. Hallik, Tarvas	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	9.7
2. Arnold, TT.	9.2
3. Cricelli, Va.	8.4
4. Ringmets, Rapla	8.1
5. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	7.9
6. Raadik, Parnu	7.8
7. Shaw, Tln Kalev	7.6
8. Allingu, Tartu U.	7.1
9. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	6.8
10. Keedus, TT.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Cunda, Va.	4.5
2. Laane, Rapla	4.0
3. Kriisa, Tarvas	3.6
4. Raap, Parnu	3.5
5. Pilk, TT.	3.4
6. Dorbek, Tarvas	3.4
7. Keedus, TT.	3.2
8. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool	3.1
9. Skele, Kalev/Cramo	2.8
10. Veideman, Tartu U.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Cunda, Va.	2.5
2. Laane, Rapla	2.3
3. Dorbek, Tarvas	2.2
4. Kaldre, Rapla	2.2
5. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.	2.1
6. Veideman, Tartu U.	2.1
7. Raley-Ross, Tln K.	2.0
8. Skele, Kalev/Cramo	1.9
9. Dorbek, Kalev/Cr.	1.8
10. Umbrasko, Tarvas	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	1.7
2. Raadik, Parnu	1.5
3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.5
4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	1.0
5. Varbanov, Kalev/Cr.	0.7
6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.7
7. Hallik, Tarvas	0.7
8. Veski, Tarvas	0.6
9. Shaw, Tln Kalev	0.5
10. Ulyanko, Kalev/Cr.	0.5

Solomon Bozeman joins Kalev/Cramo - by Eurobasket News
Solomon Bozeman (185-G-87, college: UALR) joined Kalev/Cramo. The guard started the season in D-League. He played for the Austin Toros. Solomon Bozeman tallied 8.0 points, 3.0 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game. The guard then moved to FYR Macedonia. He signed a deal with Feni Indistrija. Solomon Bozeman posted 4.0 points per game in Balkan League. He also delivered 3.0 points per FYR Macedonia Superleague appearance. It is the first pro season for Solomon Bozeman. He graduated from UALR in 2011. The guard was named All-Sun Belt Player of the Year in 2011.

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

EUROCHALLENGE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jovo STANOJEVIC
  Karsi.
  (208-C-77)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Stanojevic, Karsi.	20.4
2. Chatman, Karsiyaka	20.0
3. Copeland, Aalstar	19.6
4. Dykes, U.Mobite.	19.0
5. Karadeniz, Turk T.	18.3
6. Stimac, Olin Edirne	18.0
7. Richardson, Armia	17.8
8. Clemente, Nitra	17.8
9. Roll, Antwerp	16.9
10. Trotter, Szolnok	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Will THOMAS
  Armia
  (203-PF-86)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Thomas, Armia	11.3
2. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.	10.0
3. Kjellbom, Armia	9.8
4. Majok, Nitra	9.3
5. Arnold, BK Pardu.	8.7
6. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	8.6
7. Stanojevic, Karsi.	8.5
8. Bader, Szolnok	8.5
9. Terry, Khimik	8.2
10. Young, Aalstar	8.2

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Jordan, Telekom	9.2
2. Eldridge, Minsk-20.	6.5
3. Tchicamboud, Cha.	6.2
4. Moore, Keravnos	6.0
5. Holston, Art.Drag.	5.8
6. Barrett, Roanne	5.8
7. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	5.7
8. Gaines, Armia	5.5
9. Wright, Olin Edirne	5.3
10. Slagter, Leiden	5.1

Steals Per Game

Denis CLEMENTE
  Nitra
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Clemente, Nitra	2.8
2. Frazier, Keravnos	2.7
3. Moore, Keravnos	2.6
4. Diane, Nitra	2.5
5. Morris, U.Mobite.	2.4
6. Greene, Hoverla	2.3
7. Pandula, BK Prost.	2.3
8. Hasbrouck, EWE B.	2.0
9. Cup, Etha	1.8
10. de Jong, Leiden	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Gaffney, Teleko.	2.3
2. Kjellbom, Armia	2.3
3. Sene, Fuenlabrada	1.7
4. Hardin, Minsk-2006	1.7
5. Mejri, Antwerp	1.7
6. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.6
7. Knox, Minsk-2006	1.5
8. Pustovyi, Khimik	1.4
9. Baxter, Enisey	1.4
10. Majok, Nitra	1.3

Standings

EuroChallenge Standings

Group I
1. Roanne			3-1
2. Ventspils			2-2
3. EWE Baskets			2-2
4. Leiden			1-3
Group J
1. Telekom Baskets			3-1
2. Chalon			2-2
3. Szolnok			2-3
4. Aalstar			2-3
Group K
1. Fuenlabrada			5-0
2. Besiktas			4-1
3. BK Pardubice			1-4
4. N.Novgorod			0-5
Group L
1. Art.Dragons			4-1
2. Karsiyaka			2-2
3. Triumph			2-3
4. Antwerp			1-3

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

EUROCUP

VEF Riga release Cortney Sims - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga decided to waive Courtney Sims (211-C-83, college: Michigan). The centre joined the Latvian powerhouse at the start of the season. He averaged 3.0 points and 2.0 boards per Euroleague Qualifying Round game. In EuroCup the centre posted 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds per appearance. In VTB League Courtney Sims delivered 13.8 points, 7.0 rebounds. Courtney Sims also accounted for 24.1 points, 8.0 rebounds in LBL. Last season the centre had stints in D-League and China. Previously Courtney Sims used to play in Belgium, Puerto Rico, CSKA, D-League, NBA. The centre was named D-League Player of the Year in 2009. He also made it into USBasket.com All-D-League 3rd Team in 2011.

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group I
1. Valencia			5-0
2. VEF Riga			3-2
3. CEZ Nymburk			2-3
4. Gravelines			0-5
Group J
1. BC Donetsk			4-1
2. Khimky			4-1
3. ASVEL			1-4
4. Aris			1-4
Group K
1. Spartak SP			5-0
2. Buducnost			2-3
3. Banvit BK			2-3
4. Krka			1-4
Group L
1. Lokomotiv			3-2
2. Benetton TV			3-2
3. Lietuvos rytas			3-2
4. ALBA			1-4

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Fabien CAUSEUR
  Cholet
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 21.8

1. Causeur, Cholet	21.8
2. Minard, Azovmash	16.4
3. Curry, BC Donetsk	16.3
4. Traore, Lokomotiv	15.5
5. Massey, Lokomotiv	15.2
6. Simmons, CEZ N.	14.7
7. James, Aris	14.7
8. Seibutis, Lietuv.	14.6
9. Caner-Medley, Vale.	14.4
10. Draper, Cedevita	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Jeff ADRIEN
  Benetton TV
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Adrien, Benetton	8.4
2. Davidson, Fraport	8.2
3. Massey, Lokomotiv	8.2
4. Booker, Oostende	8.0
5. Giddens, PAOK	7.8
6. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.8
7. Traore, Lokomotiv	7.3
8. Falker, Cholet	7.0
9. Roberts, Lietuvos.	6.9
10. Troutman, B.Mue.	6.8

Assists Per Game

DaShaun WOOD
  ALBA
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Wood, ALBA	5.8
2. Halperin, Spart.	5.4
3. Planinic, Khimky	5.3
4. Moore, PGE Turow	5.2
5. Rice, Lietuvos.	4.7
6. Ermis, Banvit BK	4.5
7. Heath, Lukoil A.	4.4
8. Rochestie, Le Mans	4.4
9. Becirovic, Benetto.	4.3
10. Beverley, Spart.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Avis WYATT
  Groningen
  (211-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Wyatt, Groningen	2.5
2. Minard, Azovmash	2.3
3. Taylor, M.Hainaut	2.3
4. Pumprla, CEZ N.	2.2
5. Massey, Lokomotiv	2.1
6. Draper, Cedevita	2.0
7. Beverley, Spart.	2.0
8. Goree, PAOK	2.0
9. Randle, Hapoel J-M	2.0
10. Ermis, Banvit BK	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Sam MULDROW
  Aris
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Muldrow, Aris	2.4
2. Varnado, Hapoel J.	2.2
3. Wyatt, Groningen	2.0
4. Kravtsov, BC Do.	1.7
5. Valanciunas, Lietu.	1.7
6. Naymick, CEZ N.	1.7
7. Randle, Hapoel J-M	1.5
8. Rizvic, Azovmash	1.3
9. Armstrong, AS.	1.3
10. Fofana, AS.	1.3

Eurocup Round: 5 (Top 16) - by Eurobasket News

Group I

CEZ Nymburk - VEF Riga 80-84 OT
VEF Riga gained a crucial win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Nymburk on the road to climb at 3-2 record in Group I. Nymburk in the meantime were left at 2-3 record and with little chances of reaching the next stage. Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) fired 21 points to lead the visitors. Nymburk seemed to stay in control in the first half. The Czech champions recorded a 25:23 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the gap to three points at halftime 39:36. But the third term turned things upside down for the hosts. VEF Riga ignited a 19:9 run to take a 7-point lead before the fourth frame. Nymburk showed character erasing the deficit in a nail-biting regulation finale. But VEF Riga was determined to bring victory from Czech Republic. The Latvian powerhouse knocked down 16 points in overtime and rolled to the victory at the end. Sandis Valters (193-G-78) delivered 16 points, while Gatis Jahovics had 13 points in the win. Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Chester Simmons nailed 19 points in the loss.

Valencia - Gravelines 79-61
Valencia posted the fifth straight win in EuroCup Last 16 Group I. They held off visiting Gravelines to stay on top of the standings undefeated. Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) posted 14 points and 7 rebounds to lead the home team. Valencia and Gravelines went neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Valencia pulled ahead in the second quarter. The Spaniards eked out a 41:36 halftime advantage. Valencia stressed defence after the big break. The hosts held Gravelines to 9 points in the third term to take a 9-point advantage at the final intermission. Valencia poured in 25 points in the fourth quarter to coast to the win. Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) finished with 12 points, while Victor Claver added 11 points in the victory. Andrew Albicy (178-PG-90) answered with 18 points for Gravelines. Ludovic Vaty provided 12 points in the loss.

Group J

BC Donetsk - ASVEL 93-87
BC Donetsk registered the fourth win in EuroCup Last 16. They held off visiting Asvel to book the spot in the next round of the tournament. Darnell Jackson (203-F-85, college: Kansas) scored 20 points to lead the hosts. Asvel fell at 1-4 record and remained at the bottom of the ladder. The French team entered the game with their backs against the wall. They began aggressively posting a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Asvel maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The visitors stayed hopeful at halftime leading by 8 points 40:32. BC Donetsk however turned things around in the second half. The offence of the team shifted the gear and Asvel failed to slow the hosts down. BC Donetsk dropped 26 points in the third period to cut the deficit to 5 points. They then unloaded 35 points in the final period to pull ahead and to clinch victory. Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) had 15 points, while Ramel Curry added 16 points in the winning case. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) answered with 19 points for Asvel. Dijon Thompson delivered 17 points in the loss.

Khimky - Aris 88-72
Khimky earned the fourth win in EuroCup Last 16 Group J. They defeated visiting Aris to remain on top of the ladder. Aris fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Five Khimky players scored in double figures. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport) topscored with 14 points for the winners. The teams stayed on level terms in the starting quarter. Khimky and Aris were tied at 22 after ten minutes. Khimky pulled in front in the second frame. The hosts erupted for 26 points to ensure a 10-point lead at halftime 48:38. Aris started to lag behind in the third period. Khimky took over and rallied to a 70:54 lead at the final pause. Khimky wisely kept Aris at bay in the fourth quarter and cruised to the win at the end. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) and Sergey Monya (203-F-83) accounted for 13 points each for the winners. Dimitris Verginis (193-G-87, agency: FCM) responded with 19 points for Aris. Christos Tapoutos had 15 points in the loss.

Group K

Spartak SP - Buducnost 70-64
Spartak earned another EuroCup win. They defeated Buducnost in Saint Petersburg to improve at 5-0 record in Group K. Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) knocked down 19 points to lead the hosts. Buducnost fell at 2-3 record after the loss. Buducnost stunned the hosts in the opening quarter. The Montenegrin champions outgunned Spartak 24:19. But the hosts adjusted their defence in the second term. Spartak limited the visitors to just 12 points to level things up at 36. Buducnost pulled ahead in the third term again. Spartak managed just 13 points in the period allowing Buducnost to take a 54:49 advantage with ten minutes remaining. But Spartak showed their class in the final frame. The hosts went on a 21:10 run to leave Buducnost without a single chance for success. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) fired 15 points, while Loukas Mavrokefalidis added 14 points for Spartak. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) answered with 11 points for Buducnost. Hasan Rizvic provided 10 points in the loss.

Krka - Banvit BK 78-73
Krka draw first blood at EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated Banvit in Slovenia to improve at 1-4 record in Group K. Jure Balazic (204-F-80) fired 23 points and collected 6 rebounds to lead the winners. Krka and Banvit stayed on level terms in the starting frame. The teams exchanged baskets to stay tied at 21 after the opening quarter. The situation hardly changed in the second term. Krka managed to pull ahead for a narrow 42:40 lead at halftime. But Banvit reacted after the big break. The Turkish team limited the hosts to 11 points in the third quarter and earned a 57:53 advantage before the fourth term. Krka however stayed determined and erupted for 25 points in the final stanza to escape with a difficult win at the end. Afik Nissim (180-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) had 12 points, while Jure Lalic finished with 11 points for the winners. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) and Clifford Hammonds (191-G-85, college: Clemson) chipped in 14 points each in the loss.

Group L

Lietuvos rytas - Lokomotiv 78-82
Lokomotiv Kuban edged Lietuvos Rytas in EuroCup Group L in Vilnius tonight. The victory allowed the Russian team to catch up with their opponents at 3-2 record in the ladder. Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) posted 18 points to lead the charge. The teams started the game aggressively. They traded baskets as Lietuvos Rytas snatched a narrow 21:20 lead. The hosts stretched the margin in the second period. They established a 42:36 halftime buffer. But Lokomotiv easily surpassed it in the third frame. The visitors unloaded 25 points in the quarter to ensure a 61:58 lead with one quarter remaining. Lokomotiv managed to stay in front throughout the tense fourth quarter and stole a valuable win at the end. Sergey Bykov (190-G-83) accounted for 15 points, while Jeremiah Massey finished with 13 points in the victory. Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) delivered 17 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Renaldas Seibutis had 12 points in the defeat.

ALBA - Benetton TV 83-74
ALBA claimed the first win at EuroCup Last 16 stage. They knocked down Benetton Treviso to climb at 1-4 record in Group L. DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) posted 22 points and 9 assists to lead the winners. Benetton fell at 3-2 record and share the top spot in the Group with Lokomotiv and Lietuvos Rytas. ALBA stormed into the game. They fired 26 points to establish a 10-point lead at the first break. Benetton came back to life in the second frame. The Treviso outfit narrowed the gap to 7 points at the interval 34:41. Benetton took over in the third quarter. The Italian team held ALBA to only 6 points in the third frame to establish a 56:47 lead with one quart remaining. But it was not enough for Benetton. ALBA smashed the visitors in the fourth period. The hosts unleashed 36 points in the final term and rallied to a comfortable win. Kyle Weaver provided 13 points, while Torin Francis and Bryce Taylor contributed 12 points each in the victory. Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) answered with 17 points for Benetton. Jeffrey Viggiano and Marcus Goree had 13 points apiece in the loss.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Euroleague latest power rankings: The Pirates of the Iberian - by Dimitris Katsionis

The Pirates of the Iberian

Montepaschi attacked,robbed and sank the Spanis boats,taking the No1 seat in our Euroleague latest power rankings..

1. Montepaschi Siena (4-0):Pirates of the Iberian.. In the only group that the possibilities for the 1st place were split 50-50, Montepaschi runs a 4-0 record and +20.3 average difference with the Spaniards. Given it's toughness, Montepaschi is clearly the best defensive team in European basketball today.

2. CSSKA Moscow (3-1): Felt from No1 after the season start with the loss in Turkey. CSSKA remains the No1 favorite for the title for every decent bookmaker.. Usually a loss like this in Turkey may be more useful than a perfect record in the end of the road.

3. Regal Barcelona (4-0): Although the 4-0 record Barcelona has not convince us. Something is missing from its game. Huertas has slow down while Eidson will miss the next 3-4 weeks and this a serious problem. Many ups & downs through a 40 minute game. Pasqual has a lot of work to do cause ACB champs cant afford to show up so indolent in the post season.

4. Panathinaikos (3-1): Panathinaikos faces stability problems with some of his players but this is an every-year phenomenon. Obradovic is in a good shape and thats the most important parameter.

5. OSFP Piraeus (2-2): Olympiakos is now one of the most dangerous opponents for the 1st row favorites. Youth, Chemistry, defense. Joey Dorsey's presence changed many things. Give a credit to coach Ivkovic. He transformed the Reds from one man's team to everyone's team..

6. Gescrap BB (2-2): Glory days for BB. After two epic wins against Real Katsikariss team took a serious lead and waits a tired and full of celebrations (after the Coppa Italia) Montepaschi at Bilbao arena. BB is an organization on stable progress to the top.

7. GS Medical Park (2-2): The game against Csska change it's status and stimulate their belief before the big final at Piraeus. This is the game which determine this outstanding underdog's fate. Oktay Mahmuti is a serious contender for the coach of the year award.

8. Unics Kazan (3-1): They need to work their offense especially on Domercants cold-nights. Thats a must do on this high-level if they want to qualify. Well watch them on the last two critical games..

9. Maccabi Electra (2-2): Something is wrong with Maccabi. They won Cantu taking advantage an outbreak and the momentum, not by playing something specific. Blatt is working to solve his problems in the point guard position and the details of his new contract. This week match to Cantu and next weeks to Kazan can put Maccabi to heaven or hell..

10. Bennet Cantu (2-2): The fact that as it seems- it holds its future in its own hands makes them successful. Cantu is a real team. Goes for the big one against Barcelona with Perkins in the roster.

11. Real Madrid (2-2): Its from the moments you feel stupid, wasting an incredible first half of season in a week. The two losses from BB help Lasos team to concentrate, dig and win the Spanish Cup but lets be honest. Their future in the Euroleague depends on other peoples hands.

12. Anadolu Efes (1-3): Big investment in a pivotal year to be manage from an inexperienced coach. Efes totally disappointed in two games against the young and fresh Olympiakos team. The Turkish didnt really get on a rhythm through the season.

13. Fenerbahce Ulker (1-3): This years Fener is one of Spahijas most moderate works. Simply a confused team without clear orientation and benchmarks in their game.

14. EA7 EmporioArmani (1-3): EA7 has snuggle its game after Bremer addition. They have depth at guards, better ball movement and more quality in their offense. Maybe if Hairston was healthy from the start of top-16 Scariolo's team would have a better chance to qualify.

15. Zalgiris Kaunas (0-4): Something has to change in Zalgiris if they want to be competitive in a really high level. And I dont talk about the players or the coach..

16. Unicaja Malaga (0-4): I will say it for one more time. Brose Baskets was an overall better team..

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

FRANCE

EuroCup: BC Donetsk topple Asvel - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk - Asvel 93:87

BC Donetsk registered the fourth win in EuroCup Last 16. They held off visiting Asvel to book the spot in the next round of the tournament. Darnell Jackson (203-F-85, college: Kansas) scored 20 points to lead the hosts. Asvel fell at 1-4 record and remained at the bottom of the ladder.
The French team entered the game with their backs against the wall. They began aggressively posting a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Asvel maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The visitors stayed hopeful at halftime leading by 8 points 40:32. BC Donetsk however turned things around in the second half. The offence of the team shifted the gear and Asvel failed to slow the hosts down. BC Donetsk dropped 26 points in the third period to cut the deficit to 5 points. They then unloaded 35 points in the final period to pull ahead and to clinch victory. Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) had 15 points, while Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) added 16 points in the winning case. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) answered with 19 points for Asvel. Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) delivered 17 points in the loss.

BC Donetsk: Darnell Jackson 20, Ramel Curry 16, Vule Avdalovic 15
Asvel: Edwin Jackson 19, Dijon Thompson 17

ProB Round 22: Boulazac Basket beats Lille Metropole by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Sixth-ranked Lille Metropole (12-10) was very close to win a game against first ranked Boulazac Basket (18-4) on Tuesday. Boulazac Basket managed to secure only two-point victory 75-73. However their fans expected much easier game. Lille Metropole was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 17-13 charge of Boulazac Basket, which allowed them to win the game. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason) who helped to win the game recording 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Amadi McKenzie (201-86) contributed with 13 points and 7 assists for the winners. Power forward Steffon Bradford (199-78, college: Nebraska, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) replied with 16 points and 8 rebounds for Lille Metropole. Lille Metropole's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Boulazac Basket maintains first position with 18-4 record, which they share with Limoges. Lille Metropole at the other side keeps the sixth place with ten games lost. Boulazac Basket is looking forward to face JL Bourg (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lille Metropole will play against Olympique Antibes and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Tenth-ranked Saint Vallier (10-12) used its home court advantage to challenge second ranked Limoges CSP Elite (18-4). The visitors from Limoges managed to secure only two-point victory 76-74. However their fans expected much easier game. American guard Kyle McAlarney (185-87, college: Notre Dame) scored 21 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Christophe Massie chipped in 11 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American point guard Kyle Shiloh (191-85, college: Nevada) responded with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists. Limoges CSP Elite have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Boulazac. Saint Vallier lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Evreux. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Quimper UJAP (#17) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Saint Vallier will play against Aix-Maurienne (#5) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Chalons-Reims (15-7) against fourth ranked Fos Ouest (15-7) on Tuesday night. Visiting Chalons-Reims was defeated by Fos Ouest in a tough game in Fos 66-75. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Chalons-Reims. Bill Clark notched 32 points and 7 rebounds to lead the effort. Even 18 points and 9 rebounds by Gary Chathuant did not help to save the game for Chalons-Reims. Fos Ouest moved-up to third place, which they share with defeated Chalons-Reims. Fos Ouest will meet Bordeaux (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Chalons-Reims will play against JA Vichy (#18) and hope to secure a win.
A very interesting game took place in Antibes. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Bordeaux (11-11) to fifteenth ranked Olympique Antibes (9-13) 81-80 on Tuesday evening. Ferdinand Prenom fired 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Olympique Antibes moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Le Portel. Bordeaux lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Olympique Antibes' next round opponent will be higher ranked Lille Metropole (#6) on the road and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Important game to mention about took place in Rouen. Sixteenth ranked SPO Rouen (8-14) saved a 2-point victory at home edging higher ranked JL Bourg (11-11) 68-66 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of JL Bourg. It was a very good performance for Jason Siggers who helped to win the game recording 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. SPO Rouen moved-up to fifteenth place, which they share with Denain. Loser JL Bourg keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. SPO Rouen will face higher ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (#8) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

Other games in round 22 were not that significant. Nantes beat Le Portel on the road 91-85. Quimper won against Maurienne on its own court 91-85. Boulogne unfortunately lost to Vichy in a road game 73-86. Denain was rolled over Evreux at home 73-95.
The most impressive performance of 22th round was 27 points and 12 rebounds by Jeremiah Wood of Evreux.

Fos Ouest - Chalons-Reims 75-66

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Chalons-Reims (15-7) against fourth ranked Fos Ouest (15-7) on Tuesday night. Visiting Chalons-Reims was defeated by Fos Ouest in a tough game in Fos 66-75. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Chalons-Reims. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-66. Fos Ouest made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. American Bill Clark (195-88, college: Duquesne) notched 32 points and 7 rebounds to lead the effort and Jamaican-American Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) supported him with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Four Fos Ouest players scored in double figures. Even 18 points and 9 rebounds by the former international Gary Chathuant (195-83) did not help to save the game for Chalons-Reims. American Chris Daniels (200-82, college: Georgia, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 8 points and 10 rebounds for lost side. Fos Ouest moved-up to third place, which they share with defeated Chalons-Reims. Fos Ouest will meet Bordeaux (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Chalons-Reims will play against JA Vichy (#18) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Chalons-Reims: G.Chathuant 18+9reb, N.Carter 14+4reb+1ast, R.Mels 9+1reb+1ast, C.Daniels 8+10reb+2ast, E.Plateau 6+2ast, K.Corre 5+3reb
Fos Ouest: B.Clark 32+7reb+2ast, E.Choquet 13+3reb, M.Dia 10+5reb+1ast, S.Gay 10+10reb+3ast, S.Giffa 8+4reb, K.Atamna 2+7reb+3ast

Le Portel - Nantes 85-91

No shocking result in a game when eleventh ranked Nantes (11-11) beat on the road 13th ranked Le Portel (9-13) 91-85 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 52-44 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Nantes outrebounded Le Portel 41-28 including 30 on the defensive glass. Le Portel was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for naturalized American guard David Fergerson (185-78, college: St.Louis) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Senegalese power forward Malick Badiane (211-84) contributed with 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. American point guard Ronnie Taylor (188-81, college: NC-Greensboro, agency: Court Side) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 assists and his fellow American import swingman Chris Davis (195-80, college: N.Texas, agency: Court Side) added 19 points in the effort for Le Portel. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Nantes moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Le Portel keeps the thirteenth position with 13 games lost. Nantes will face Denain Voltaire (#15) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Le Portel will play against ALM Evreux and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Le Portel: C.Davis 19+4reb+1ast, R.Taylor 16+2reb+10ast, M.Labeyrie 15+2reb+1ast, N.Wyatte 11+6reb, I.Sy 10+3reb+1ast, J.Ludon 8+6reb+1ast
Nantes: M.Badiane 21+7reb+3ast, A.Charles 17+3reb+1ast, N.Gayon 17+4reb+1ast, D.Fergerson 15+11reb+6ast, K.Idomenee 10+2reb+2ast, M.Drame 7+6reb+4ast

Rouen - Bourg 68-66

Important game to mention about took place in Rouen. Sixteenth ranked SPO Rouen (8-14) saved a 2-point victory at home edging higher ranked JL Bourg (11-11) 68-66 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of JL Bourg. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 18-12 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a very good performance for American Jason Siggers (189-85, college: Albany) who helped to win the game recording 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. The other American import power forward Alex Dunn (210-82, college: Wyoming) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Senegalese power forward Ousmane Barro (207-84, college: Marquette) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds and American forward Jamelle Cornley (196-87, college: Penn St.) added 9 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for JL Bourg. SPO Rouen moved-up to fifteenth place, which they share with Denain. Loser JL Bourg keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. SPO Rouen will face higher ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (#8) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Bourg: D.Copeland 13+2reb+2ast, O.Barro 12+11reb+1ast, J.Sanchez 11+1reb+2ast, J.Cornley 9+11reb, C.Ferchaud 9+2reb+3ast, A.Tsagarakis 7+1reb+2ast
Rouen: J.Siggers 24+9reb+4ast, C.Bronchard 16+7reb+1ast, A.Dunn 14+11reb+1ast, P.Poupet 7+2reb+3ast, S.Dia 3, K.Patiejunas 2+4reb+5ast

St Vallier - Limoges 74-76

Tenth-ranked Saint Vallier (10-12) used its home court advantage to challenge second ranked Limoges CSP Elite (18-4). The visitors from Limoges managed to secure only two-point victory 76-74. However their fans expected much easier game. Saint Vallier was ahead by 8 points after three quarters before a 21-11 charge of Limoges CSP Elite, which allowed them to win the game. They outrebounded Saint Vallier 44-32 including 29 on the defensive glass. American guard Kyle McAlarney (185-87, college: Notre Dame) scored 21 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import power forward Christophe Massie (206-77, college: Memphis, agency: Court Side) chipped in 11 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American point guard Kyle Shiloh (191-85, college: Nevada) responded with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists and David Denave (195-85) scored 12 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Limoges CSP Elite have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Boulazac. Saint Vallier lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Evreux. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Quimper UJAP (#17) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Saint Vallier will play against Aix-Maurienne (#5) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
St Vallier: K.Shiloh 20+5reb+9ast, S.Barrett 15+2reb+1ast, L.Prowell 13+2reb, D.Denave 12+7reb+5ast, F.Tortosa 7+2reb+1ast, H.Disy 4+11reb+2ast
Limoges: K.McAlarney 21+5reb+1ast, J.Hoyaux 19+3reb+1ast, S.Traore 13+11reb+2ast, C.Massie 11+14reb+1ast, R.Desroses 9+6reb+3ast, J.Gomis 3+2reb+6ast

Quimper - Maurienne 91-85

There was an upset when higher ranked Aix-Maurienne (13-9) lost on the road to seventeenth ranked Quimper UJAP (5-17) 91-85 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 49-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Quimper UJAP forced 20 Aix-Maurienne turnovers. Quite impressive performance for American guard Adam McCoy (195-86, college: N.Texas) who helped to win the game recording 22 points. The other American import forward Nathaniel Roche (203-88, college: Belhaven) contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Five Quimper UJAP players scored in double figures. American Wilbert Brown (199-84, college: Niagara, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) replied with 31 points and 9 rebounds and American-DR Congolese power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) added 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) in the effort for Aix-Maurienne. Quimper UJAP maintains seventeenth position with 5-17 record. Loser Aix-Maurienne keeps the fifth place with nine games lost. Quimper UJAP will face league's second-placed Limoges CSP Elite on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Aix-Maurienne will play against Saint Vallier.
Top scorers:
Maurienne: W.Brown 31+9reb, B.Osby 17+7reb+1ast, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 13+4reb+2ast, D.Tucker 6+5reb, S.Darnauzan 5+3reb+2ast, G.Clerc 5+2reb+2ast
Quimper: A.McCoy 22+1reb, N.Roche 16+6reb, P.Paelay 16+3reb+1ast, A.Salmon 11+4reb+3ast, F.Thibedore 10+2reb+1ast, V.Mouillard 8+2reb+3ast

Vichy - Boulogne 86-73

There was a surprise result when eighteenth ranked JA Vichy (4-18) won against at home higher ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (11-11) 86-73 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 49-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. JA Vichy looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Quite impressive performance for American forward Daniel Coleman (206-85, college: Minnesota) who helped to win the game recording 31 points and 9 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Guard Mathieu Guichard (188-88) contributed with 20 points and 6 assists for the winners. American Corey Rouse (204-84, college: E.Carolina, agency: Court Side) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Portuguese power forward Fernando Raposo Laurencio (206-89) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for SO Maritime Boulogne. JA Vichy maintains eighteenth position with 4-18 record. Loser SO Maritime Boulogne dropped to the seventh place with 11 games lost. JA Vichy will face higher ranked Chalons-Reims (#3) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Boulogne: C.Rouse 21+8reb, F.Raposo Laurencio 13+6reb+4ast, J.Rousselle 12+4reb+3ast, T.Stanley 8+3reb, J.Leria 6+4reb+1ast, M.Le Pellec 5
Vichy: D.Coleman 31+9reb, M.Guichard 20+2reb+6ast, M.Jefferson 10+10reb, A.Eito 8+4reb+12ast, O.Ikuesan 6, N.Faye Djobo 6+7reb+2ast

Denain - Evreux 73-95

Not a big story in a game when 14th ranked Denain Voltaire (8-14) was outscored at home by twelfth ranked ALM Evreux (10-12) 95-73 on Tuesday. The game without a history. ALM Evreux led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Denain Voltaire's 44. They outrebounded Denain Voltaire 32-20 including 20 on the defensive glass. Quite impressive performance for American power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). The other American import forward Drake Reed (194-87, college: Austin Peay St.) contributed with 27 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Juwann James (198-87, college: JMU) replied with 16 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and Lamine Kante (200-87) added 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for Denain Voltaire. ALM Evreux moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with St Vallier. Denain Voltaire lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fifteenth position with 14 games lost. ALM Evreux will face Le Portel (#14) at home in the next round. Denain Voltaire will play against Nantes.
Top scorers:
Denain: L.Kante 18+3reb, J.James 16+2reb+4ast, R.Rossiter 14+3reb+1ast, F.Minet 7+1reb+1ast, N.Rohnert 7+6reb+5ast, A.Aboubakar Zaki 4+3reb
Evreux: J.Wood 27+12reb+1ast, D.Reed 27+5reb+1ast, A.Rowland 10+2reb+9ast, G.Pons 9+1reb+3ast, G.Florimont 8+5reb, L.Konate 6+5reb+4ast

Antibes - Bordeaux 81-80

A very interesting game took place in Antibes. It ended with only one-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Bordeaux (11-11) to fifteenth ranked Olympique Antibes (9-13) 81-80 on Tuesday evening. Bordeaux was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 18-14 charge of Olympique Antibes, which allowed them to win the game. They made 25-of-31 charity shots (80.6 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Bordeaux helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Center Ferdinand Prenom (205-91) fired 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Lesly Bengaber (197-79) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. Four Olympique Antibes players scored in double figures. American guard Christopher Dunn (190-83, college: W.Virginia St.) produced 20 points and 6 assists and his fellow American import power forward John Ford (207-78, college: Colorado St.) added 15 points respectively for lost side. Olympique Antibes moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Le Portel. Bordeaux lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Olympique Antibes' next round opponent will be higher ranked Lille Metropole (#6) on the road and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Bordeaux: C.Dunn 20+4reb+6ast, J.Ford 15+3reb, M.Doubal 12+3reb+1ast, G.Darrigand 9+4ast, M.Diaw 8+3reb, S.Driss 4+5reb+1ast
Antibes: L.Bengaber 18+6reb+1ast, F.Prenom 17+7reb+3ast, T.Huffman 15+3reb+7ast, M.Badiane 11+9reb+1ast, B.Monclar 11+3reb+1ast, J.Allen 9+5reb+2ast

Boulazac - Lille 75-73

Sixth-ranked Lille Metropole (12-10) was very close to win a game against first ranked Boulazac Basket (18-4) on Tuesday. Boulazac Basket managed to secure only two-point victory 75-73. However their fans expected much easier game. Lille Metropole was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 17-13 charge of Boulazac Basket, which allowed them to win the game. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason) who helped to win the game recording 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Amadi McKenzie (201-86) contributed with 13 points and 7 assists for the winners. Power forward Steffon Bradford (199-78, college: Nebraska, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) replied with 16 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Curtis Marshall (196-83, college: Texas Tech, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 15 points in the effort for Lille Metropole. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Lille Metropole's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Boulazac Basket maintains first position with 18-4 record, which they share with Limoges. Lille Metropole at the other side keeps the sixth place with ten games lost. Boulazac Basket is looking forward to face JL Bourg (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lille Metropole will play against Olympique Antibes and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Lille: S.Bradford 16+8reb+1ast, C.Marshall 15+4reb+2ast, B.Gillet 14+1ast, S.Smith 10+4reb, J.Sauret 8+3reb+6ast, N.Taccoen 6+3reb
Boulazac: D.Monroe 17+9reb+5ast, Y.Gaillou 14+2ast, A.McKenzie 13+4reb+7ast, S.Njoya 11+3reb+5ast, F.Adjiwanou 8+1reb+1ast, R.Ayers 5+1reb

EuroCup: Valencia too good for Gravelines - by Eurobasket News
Valencia - Gravelines 79:61

Valencia posted the fifth straight win in EuroCup Last 16 Group I. They held off visiting Gravelines to stay on top of the standings undefeated. Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) posted 14 points and 7 rebounds to lead the home team.
Valencia and Gravelines went neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Valencia pulled ahead in the second quarter. The Spaniards eked out a 41:36 halftime advantage. Valencia stressed defence after the big break. The hosts held Gravelines to 9 points in the third term to take a 9-point advantage at the final intermission. Valencia poured in 25 points in the fourth quarter to coast to the win. Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) finished with 12 points, while Victor Claver (207-F/C-88) added 11 points in the victory. Andrew Albicy (178-PG-90) answered with 18 points for Gravelines. Ludovic Vaty (206-C-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) provided 12 points in the loss.

Valencia: Serhiy Lishchuk 14, Rafael Martinez 12, Victor Claver 11
Gravelines: Andrew Albicy 18, Ludovic Vaty 12

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Boulazac		18-4
2. Limoges		18-4
3. Chalons-Reims		15-7
4. Fos Ouest		15-7
5. Maurienne		13-9
6. Lille		12-10
7. Nantes		11-11
8. Boulogne		11-11
9. Bourg		11-11
10. Bordeaux		11-11
11. St Vallier		10-12
12. Evreux		10-12
13. Antibes		9-13
14. Le Portel		9-13
15. Denain		8-14
16. Rouen		8-14
17. Quimper		5-17
18. Vichy		4-18
19. St Etienne		0-0

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Moses SONKO
  Bourg
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
2. McCray, Boulogne	18.3
3. Davis, Le Portel	18.3
4. Denave, St Vallier	17.7
5. Siggers, Rouen	17.3
6. Paelay, Quimper	16.4
7. Barro, Bourg	16.0
8. Wood, Evreux	16.0
9. Gay, Fos Ouest	15.6
10. Smith, Lille	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.8

1. Massie, Limoges	11.8
2. Wood, Evreux	11.3
3. Rossiter, Denain	9.5
4. Osby, Maurienne	9.4
5. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
6. Monroe, Boulazac	9.2
7. Barro, Bourg	9.0
8. Allen, Antibes	9.0
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.3
10. Badiane, Nantes	7.9

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.4
2. Copeland, Bourg	5.6
3. Rowland, Evreux	5.5
4. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.4
5. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.2
6. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.2
7. Mouillard, Quimper	5.2
8. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.1
9. Denave, St Vallier	4.8
10. Sauret, Lille	4.7

Steals Per Game

Armand CHARLES
  Nantes
  (193-SF-83)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Charles, Nantes	2.7
2. McCray, Boulogne	2.6
3. Paelay, Quimper	2.2
4. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.1
5. Flowers, Vichy	2.0
6. Allen, Antibes	2.0
7. Denave, St Vallier	1.9
8. Eito, Vichy	1.8
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	1.7
10. Taylor, Le Portel	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
2. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
3. Osby, Maurienne	1.5
4. Ford, Bordeaux	1.2
5. Jefferson, Vichy	1.2
6. Massie, Limoges	1.0
7. Dunn, Rouen	0.9
8. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	0.9
10. Prowell, St Valli.	0.9

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

GERMANY

GREECE

EuroCup: Khimky outscore Aris - by Eurobasket News
Khimky - Aris 88:72

Khimky earned the fourth win in EuroCup Last 16 Group J. They defeated visiting Aris to remain on top of the ladder. Aris fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Five Khimky players scored in double figures. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport) topscored with 14 points for the winners.
The teams stayed on level terms in the starting quarter. Khimky and Aris were tied at 22 after ten minutes. Khimky pulled in front in the second frame. The hosts erupted for 26 points to ensure a 10-point lead at halftime 48:38. Aris started to lag behind in the third period. Khimky took over and rallied to a 70:54 lead at the final pause. Khimky wisely kept Aris at bay in the fourth quarter and cruised to the win at the end. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) and Sergey Monya (203-F-83) accounted for 13 points each for the winners. Dimitris Verginis (193-G-87, agency: FCM) responded with 19 points for Aris. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) had 15 points in the loss.

Khimky: Kresimir Loncar 14, Zoran Planinic 13, Sergey Monya 13
Aris: Dimitris Verginis 19, Christos Tapoutos 15

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

HUNGARY

Standings - B Division

B Division Standings

East
1. EKF Hesz Gep.		12-2
2. MTK Torokbalint		12-2
3. Salgotarjani		12-3
4. Bajai FKE		9-6
5. EnterNet Vas.		8-6
6. Kecskemeti Foi.		7-6
7. Nagykorosi		7-8
8. Phoenix KK		5-9
9. DEAC		5-10
10. Obudai		2-12
11. Szerencs		0-15
West
1. Kanizsa		14-2
2. Gyorszol		12-4
3. Veszpremi		12-4
4. SMAFC-NYME		11-5
5. Bonyhadi		10-5
6. Bp. Honved		9-7
7. PTE-PEAC PVSK		9-7
8. TF Budapest		7-9
9. MAFC		5-11
10. Ceragem		3-13
11. Treff		2-14
12. FKSZC-Sarvar		1-14

Michael Fey leaves, Charles Gosa is back on the court! - by Tamas Deri
American all-around forward Charles Gosa (202-F-77, college: N.Mexico St.) finally agreed with the management of Kaposvar and will play for the team for the rest of the season. The club had to sign a new import as their big man Michael Fey (213-F/C-83, college: UCLA) used his buyout-clause and will move to Venezuela. The big man was doing a real good job for KKK averaging almost a double-double of 17.9 points and 9.1 rebounds in 34.7 minutes on the court.
The 35 years old, 202 cm tall Gosa is a well knonw player in our country. After playing several years in Israel, France, Ukraine he took a deal with Atomeromu SE for the season 2008-09 and run a good season averaging 15.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg in 31 games. After a longer knee rehabilitation he came back to Paks in March 2010 but moved to Austria and finished the season with the Oberwart Gunners. In the season 2010-11 he was fit again and played 29 games for Falco KC Szombathely puting up 17.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.8spg. In April 2011 he was called again to Austria for the playoffs by the Furstenfeld Panthers, where he played 4 games in the semifinals averaging 12.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg.

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

IBL

Hunter stepping down as Volcanoes Head Coach - by Kip Leonetti
Bryan Hunter will be stepping down as Head Coach of the Vancouver Volcanoes for the 2012 International Basketball League season.

Hunter will retain his position as the teams General Manager and has tabbed his former Assistant Coach, Joe Navarro , to take the helm in his place.

Navarro, a Player Scout for the the Los Angeles Clippers working with General Manager Neil Oshley also continues to conduct individual workouts for NBA players. In the IBL he has served as an Assistant Coach for the Volcanoes for the past two seasons. If that wasn't enough, Coach Navarro has spent the last eight years courtside as an Assistant at Concordia University in Portland. Getting his start at North Marion High School in Aurora, Ore., and Warrenton High School, Navarro has the ability to recognize talent and knows how to put a team together.

''Joe is a great coach and deserves to run his own team. He is players coach that can still manage to keep the respect of players and has some great insight into the game,'' commented Hunter. ''His experience with the NBA also goes a long way to establishing respect and experience.''

Joining Navarro on the sideline will be longtime Volcanoes swingman Kevin Bloodsaw (6'5''-G/F-72, college: Ozarks), who helped his team capture the IBL Championship in 2011. One of just three players to play in the IBL every season of its seven-year history, Bloodsaw finishes his professional career as the leagues all-time leading scorer with 2252 points. In addition to his playing career, Bloodsaw has also spent the last four seasons serving as head coach of Life Christian High School's boys basketball team in Aloha, Ore.

''Kevin brings a leadership to a team that most general managers would die to have,'' spoke Hunter on Bloodsaw's qualifications. ''He has won a championship in college and the IBL, he has played overseas, and most players know that he is still, at age 38, one of the best defenders in the league.''

Navarro and Bloodsaw will make their debut as the Volcanoes open the 2012 season and raise their 2011 IBL Championship banner on Saturday, April 28 at the O'Connell Sports Complex at Clark College. A full schedule and news on the teams roster for the 2012 season will be announced soon.

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

ICELAND

New players in & MVP of Powerade Cup finals - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Charles Michael Charles Parker (193-G-85, college: Millersville) was awarded as MVP of the Powerade Cup final last saturday.
Charles Parker had a very good all around game with 32 points, 13 rebounds 3 assist. Shooting 65% from 2-pt. 67% from 3-pt and 80% from the fouline. 38in Effience.

IR has added another american on their roster in 6'7' forward Rodney Alexander who played one season at Illinois NCAA D-1 and then at NAIA School Oklahoma City where he average 19,4 points & 4,9 rebounds. This season he played few games in PBL for Lake Michigan.

IA in Div 1 also added another american on the roster in 5'10' point guard Lorenzo McCLelland who played College ball at Wayne State and Rochester College

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

INDONESIA

Nolland's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
29-year old power forward Vinton Nolland (194-PF-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for Garuda and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 30.
He had a double-double of 16 points and 13 rebounds, while his team outclassed NSH GMC Riau (#11, 1-17) with 47-point margin 84-37. Garuda maintains the 3rd position in Indonesian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Garuda will need more victories to improve their 15-4 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Nolland as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Nolland has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 6.8rpg).

Second best performed player last round was H Herman (193-C-89) of CLS Knights. He is a center in his first season at CLS Knights. In the last game Herman recorded impressive double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead CLS Knights to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Pacific Caesar (#9, 6-13) 81-37. CLS Knights' 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 12-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Herman is a newcomer at CLS Knights and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Eko Wiratama Nasution (195-F-90) of Satya Wacana (#12). Nasution scored 17 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Nasution's great performance Satya Wacana lost 56-68 to the higher-ranked Bima Sakti (#8, 6-11). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Satya Wacana can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-18 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Nasution he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Nasution has individually a great season in Indonesia. After 20 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.7rpg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Andi Poedjakesuma (187-F-80) of Pelita Jaya - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-PF-90) of Bima Sakti - 15 points and 9 rebounds
6. Teddy Febyanto (175-PG-80) of Garuda - 11 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-SG-89) of Bima Sakti - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Denny Sartika (175-PG-80) of Bima Sakti - 5 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Hendrik Agustinus (203-C-82) of Garuda - 12 points and 4 assists
10. Tony Agus (191-PF-86) of CLS Knights - 13 points and 4 rebounds

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

NBL Round 31: No surprise as #1 Satria Muda defeats Satya Wacana - by Eurobasket News
NBL top team - Satria Muda (18-2) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed twelfth ranked Satya Wacana (1-19) in Jakarta 77-47. The game was mostly controlled by Satria Muda. Satya Wacana managed to win fourth quarter 16-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Satria Muda forced 25 Satya Wacana turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Satya Wacana's players. It was a great evening for Bonanza Siregar (192-SF-87) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Galank Gunawan (194-87) helped adding 6 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists. At the losing side center Johanes Hasoloan (196-87) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Satya Wacana's coach Danny Kosasih gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Satria Muda have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 18-2 record. Satya Wacana lost eighth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 19 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in Sakti was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Aspac (16-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Bima Sakti (6-12). Aspac defeated Bima Sakti 74-59. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Bima Sakti. It was an exceptional evening for forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) who led the winners and scored 14 points and 9 rebounds. Sigit Harun Nurman accounted for 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-89) came up with 21 points for Bima Sakti in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aspac maintains second place with 16-3 record having just three points less than leader Satria Muda. Bima Sakti at the other side keeps the eighth position with 12 games lost. Aspac will play against Pacific Caesar (#9) in Surabaya in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bima Sakti will have a break next round.
Sixth ranked Muba Hangtuah (12-8) crushed at home 7th ranked Stadium Jakarta (10-9) by 32 points 88-56, which is the biggest margin this round on Tuesday night. Ary Sapto fired a double-double by scoring 22 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Randolph Ariestedes produced 13 points for lost side. Stadium Jakarta's coach already knew that his team would not have a big chance, so allowed to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Muba Hangtuah have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 12-8 record. Loser Stadium Jakarta keeps the seventh position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last game of round 31 Garuda destroyed Comfort Mobile on the opponent's court 59-30.

Comfort Mobile - Garuda 30-59

Very expected game in Jakarta where 10th ranked Comfort Mobile (4-16) was crushed by third ranked Garuda (16-4) 59-30 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Garuda led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Comfort Mobile to just 5 points in second quarter. Garuda dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Comfort Mobile's 20. Garuda forced 21 Comfort Mobile turnovers and outrebounded them 40-24 including 16 on the offensive glass. Vinton Nolland (194-82) fired 18 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Forward Fadlan Minallah (185-82) chipped in 9 points and 5 rebounds. Gabriel Sitaniapesy (185-85) produced 7 points and point guard Richardo Orlando Uniputty (163-87) added 7 points respectively for lost side. Comfort Mobile's coach Bintoro already knew that his team would not have a big chance, so allowed to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Garuda have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain third place with 16-4 record having just two points less than leader Satria Muda. Comfort Mobile lost third consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with 16 games lost. Garuda will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Comfort Mobile will play against Pacific Caesar (#9) in Surabaya and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Garuda: V.Nolland 18+9reb+2ast, F.Minallah 9+5reb+2ast, T.Febyanto 8+3reb, H.Ramli 8+6reb+1ast, H.Agustinus 6+3reb, W.Wijaya 4+1reb+1ast
Comfort Mobile: G.Sitaniapesy 7+4reb+1ast, R.Orlando Uniputty 7+2reb+1ast, H.Herlusdityo 6+1reb, H.Kurniawan 4+1reb+2ast, R.Rudini 4+5reb+1ast, P.Susanto 2+2reb

Bima Sakti - Aspac 59-74

The game in Sakti was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Aspac (16-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Bima Sakti (6-12). Aspac defeated Bima Sakti 74-59. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Bima Sakti. The game was mostly controlled by Aspac. Bima Sakti was better in third quarter 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Aspac dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Bima Sakti's 32. They outrebounded Bima Sakti 43-28 including 16 on the offensive glass. Aspac brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was an exceptional evening for forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) who led the winners and scored 14 points and 9 rebounds. Sigit Harun Nurman (187-88) accounted for 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-89) came up with 21 points and Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-90) added 7 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Bima Sakti in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aspac maintains second place with 16-3 record having just three points less than leader Satria Muda. Bima Sakti at the other side keeps the eighth position with 12 games lost. Aspac will play against Pacific Caesar (#9) in Surabaya in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bima Sakti will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Aspac: P.Regowo 14+9reb+1ast, I.Thoyib 12+7reb+2ast, S.Harun Nurman 11+6reb+5ast, R.Effendi 10+1reb+2ast, O.Wira Sanjaya 7+6reb, A.Arizki 5+5reb+1ast
Bima Sakti: Y.Dwi Priasmoro 21+1reb+2ast, H.Gunawan 11+3reb+1ast, B.Rizky Ardiansyah 7+6reb+2ast, S.Cahyadi 5, U.Gendro Maryono 5+3reb, G.Virgian 4+6reb

Muba Hangtuah - Stadium Jak. 88-56

Sixth ranked Muba Hangtuah (12-8) crushed at home 7th ranked Stadium Jakarta (10-9) by 32 points 88-56, which is the biggest margin this round on Tuesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Muba Hangtuah. Stadium Jakarta managed to win fourth quarter 18-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Muba Hangtuah dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Stadium Jakarta's 38. Muba Hangtuah forced 24 Stadium Jakarta turnovers and outrebounded them 41-29 including 27 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Stadium Jakarta's players. Forward Ary Sapto (188-80) fired a double-double by scoring 22 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Guard Agustinus Sigar (180-79) chipped in 21 points and 5 rebounds. Five Muba Hangtuah players scored in double figures. Randolph Ariestedes (197-87) produced 13 points and Merio Ferdiansyah (176-85) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Stadium Jakarta's coach already knew that his team would not have a big chance, so allowed to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Muba Hangtuah have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 12-8 record. Loser Stadium Jakarta keeps the seventh position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Muba Hangtuah: A.Sapto 22+11reb+4ast, A.Sigar 21+5reb+3ast, D.Heryadi 12+7reb+3ast, I.G Ngurah Teguh 10+3reb+3ast, T.Wilopo 10+3reb+2ast, H.Hardianus 9+2reb+2ast
Stadium Jak.: R.Ariestedes 13+4reb+1ast, M.Ferdiansyah 12+5reb+1ast, C.Nurhadi Yusran 7+1reb, M.Wicaksono 6+1reb+2ast, F.Budianto 5+2reb+1ast, D.Iskandar 4+3reb

Satria Muda - Satya Wacana 77-47

NBL top team - Satria Muda (18-2) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed twelfth ranked Satya Wacana (1-19) in Jakarta 77-47. The game was mostly controlled by Satria Muda. Satya Wacana managed to win fourth quarter 16-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Satria Muda forced 25 Satya Wacana turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Satya Wacana's players. It was a great evening for Bonanza Siregar (192-87) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Galank Gunawan (194-87) helped adding 6 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists. At the losing side center Johanes Hasoloan (196-87) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and guard Respati Pamungkas (180-91) scored 13 points. Satya Wacana's coach Danny Kosasih gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Satria Muda have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 18-2 record. Satya Wacana lost eighth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 19 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Satria Muda: B.Siregar 18+7reb+2ast, A.Wisnu 12+7reb+2ast, F.Julius Ahmad 11+4reb+1ast, R.Putra 9+4reb, F.Susanto 9+4reb+2ast, A.Sunarko 6+3reb+8ast
Satya Wacana: J.Hasoloan 15+12reb, R.Pamungkas 13+3reb+1ast, Y.Sua 6, F.Nugroho 4+4reb, A.Abraham 2+4reb+4ast, M.Halim 2+5reb+1ast

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

1. Satria Muda		18-2
2. Aspac		16-3
3. Garuda		16-4
4. Pelita Jaya		13-6
5. CLS Knights		12-6
6. Muba Hangtuah		12-8
7. Stadium Jak.		10-9
8. Bima Sakti		6-12
9. Pacific Caesar		6-13
10. Comfort Mobile		4-16
11. NSH GMC Riau		1-17
12. Satya Wacana		1-19

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Yanuar DWI PRIASMORO
  Bima S.
  (178-SG-89)
  Avg: 15.8

1. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.	15.8
2. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	15.2
3. Sapto, Muba H.	14.2
4. Wisnu, Satria Muda	13.8
5. Nagata, Pacific	13.3
6. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	12.8
7. Prawiro, Aspac	12.6
8. Chandra, Pelita J.	12.4
9. Ahmad, Satria Muda	12.2
10. Ariestedes, Stadi.	11.7

Rebounds Per Game

Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Gunawan, Satria M.	10.9
2. Regowo, Aspac	8.3
3. Sitepu, Satria M.	7.8
4. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	7.5
5. Thoyib, Aspac	7.4
6. Situmorang, Satria	7.0
7. Wuwungan, Satya W.	7.0
8. Nolland, Garuda	6.8
9. Nasution, Satya W.	6.7
10. Yanto, NSH G.	6.6

Assists Per Game

Dirk GERUNGAN
  Aspac
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Gerungan, Aspac	4.3
2. Sartika, Bima Sakti	4.0
3. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.5
4. Widyanto, Pacifi.	3.2
5. Muharri, CLS K.	3.0
6. Wilopo, Muba H.	2.7
7. Ahmad, Satria Muda	2.6
8. Sura, Garuda	2.5
9. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.4
10. Wijaya, Garuda	2.2

Steals Per Game

Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.2
2. Poedjakesuma, Peli.	2.6
3. Muharri, CLS K.	2.6
4. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	2.4
5. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.3
6. Wijaya, Garuda	2.2
7. Sartika, Bima Sakti	2.2
8. Sura, Garuda	2.1
9. Ramli, Garuda	2.1
10. Galih, Pacific Ca.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

R RUSLAN
  Stadium .
  (197-C-89)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Ruslan, Stadium	2.2
2. Sitepu, Satria M.	2.2
3. Thoyib, Aspac	2.1
4. Arizki, Aspac	1.7
5. Teguh, Muba H.	1.4
6. Gunawan, Satya W.	1.3
7. Sasmito, Pacific	1.2
8. Indrawan, Pelita J.	1.2
9. Damanik, NSH G.	1.2
10. Wuwungan, Satya	1.1

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

ISRAEL

National League Round 19: Hapoel Yokneam/Megido tries to escape the last position defeating Ironi Nahariya - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with extra overtimes and favorites losing the games.

Bottom-ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido managed to get a sixth victory on Tuesday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Ironi Nahariya 100-83. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 17-point difference suggests that Hapoel Yokneam/Megido is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 100-83. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Ironi Nahariya's 44 and made 18-of-19 free shots (94.7 percent) during the game. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for American power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 13 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!). Swingman Inam Eiram (194-88, agency: Avi Zilberman) helped adding 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. At the losing side guard Oren Ben Hemo (190-79) responded with 22 points and 4 assists. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (6-13) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Hapoel K/S and Ironi Nahariya. Ironi Nahariya lost eighth consecutive game. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido is again looking forward to face bottom-ranked Ironi Nahariya (#14) at home in the next round. Ironi Nahariya will have a break next round.
National League top team - Hapoel Tel-Aviv (16-3) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed twelfth ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (6-13) 86-55. It was a quality performance for guard Aviram Zelkovits (193-89) who led the winners and scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. Curtis Kelly accounted for 17 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Marshall Moses (198-89, college: Oklahoma St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds for Hapoel Kfar Saba in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Hapoel Tel-Aviv have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 16-3 record. Hapoel Kfar Saba at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Hapoel Y/M and Ironi Nahariya. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Hapoel Kfar Saba will play again at home against the league's leader Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Elitzur Ramla (8-11) outlasted Hapoel Afula (10-9) in overtime by seven points 84-77 on Tuesday night. The game took place in Afula. But the guests from Ramla were better at the end. Stacey Moragne fired a double-double by scoring 31 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Ronny LeMelle produced 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side. Elitzur Ramla moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Ironi Ramat Gan. Hapoel Afula lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Hod Hasharon. Elitzur Ramla will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Hapoel Afula will play again against Elitzur Ramla (#9) and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the Premier League just one year after relegation.
The game in Ramat Gan supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Elitzur Yavne (14-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (8-11). Elitzur Yavne did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 91-71. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Ironi Ramat Gan. Worth to mention a great performance of Elad Hofman who helped to win the game recording 27 points. Elitzur Yavne's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Elitzur Yavne. They maintain third place with 14-5 record having just two points less than leader Hapoel T-A. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Elitzur Yavne will have a break next round. Ironi Ramat Gan will play again at home against Elitzur Yavne (#3) and be promoted back to the Premier League just one year after relegation.
An interesting game took place in Lev Hasharon where higher ranked Hod Hasharon (10-9) was upset on the court of eleventh ranked Lev Hasharon (7-12) 90-86 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Hod Hasharon. It was a great evening for Grady Reynolds who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Lev Hasharon moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Ironi K-A. Loser Hod Hasharon keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. Lev Hasharon will face again higher ranked Hod Hasharon (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

In the last two games of round 19 Ironi K-A lost to Kiryat Tivon on the opponent's court 79-96. Macc.B.Yaakov managed to outperform Ironi Nes-Ziona in a home game 93-85.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 21 points and 20 rebounds by Ramon Clemente of Kiryat Tivon.

Lev Hasharon - Hod Hasharon 90-86

An interesting game took place in Lev Hasharon where higher ranked Hod Hasharon (10-9) was upset on the court of eleventh ranked Lev Hasharon (7-12) 90-86 on Tuesday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Hod Hasharon. Hod Hasharon trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 28-19 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 86-90 at the end of the game. Lev Hasharon dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Hod Hasharon's 38. It was a great evening for American forward Grady Reynolds (198-80, college: St.John's, agency: Strategic Sports) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Omer Shmidt (193-87) helped adding 16 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American forward Anthony Johnson (203-88, college: Fairfield) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 11 rebounds and naturalized Latvian swingman Gary Gandel (203-80) scored 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Lev Hasharon moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Ironi K-A. Loser Hod Hasharon keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. Lev Hasharon will face again higher ranked Hod Hasharon (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Lev Hasharon: G.Reynolds 19+13reb+1ast, S.Vered 17+3reb+1ast, O.Shmidt 16+6reb+2ast, O.Rub 11+5reb+7ast, U.Gur 9+3reb+1ast, A.Sela 6+3reb
Hod Hasharon: A.Johnson 27+11reb, H.Ratner 18+2ast, G.Gandel 16+6reb+6ast, J.Gonzalez 13+5reb+5ast, O.Winter 4+10reb+3ast, A.Skverer 3+2reb+2ast

Kiryat Tivon - Ironi K-A 96-79

Very expected game when 10th ranked Ironi Kiryat Ata (7-12) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Kiryat Tivon (11-8) 96-79 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Kiryat Tivon led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Ironi Kiryat Ata to just 0 points in second quarter. Kiryat Tivon made 25-of-28 free shots (89.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Ironi Kiryat Ata turnovers. Ironi Kiryat Ata was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American-Puerto Rican Ramon Clemente (200-85, college: Wichita St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 20 rebounds. Guard Liraz Ariely (185-92, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) helped adding 26 points (made all of his eight free throws). At the losing side American forward Tony Younger (200-80, college: Spring Hill, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Raz Elbaz (187-86) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ironi Kiryat Ata's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Kiryat Tivon. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record. Ironi Kiryat Ata lost their third game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the tenth position with 12 games lost. Kiryat Tivon will face again Ironi Kiryat Ata (#10) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game.
Top scorers:
Kiryat Tivon: L.Ariely 26+2reb+2ast, R.Clemente 21+20reb, V.Gandlin 12+2reb+5ast, K.Izik 11+1reb, O.Hover 10+1reb+2ast, J.Gomes 8+1reb+1ast
Ironi K-A: T.Younger 25+11reb+5ast, G.Halamish 13+2reb+1ast, R.Elbaz 13+5reb+3ast, R.Menashe 12+4reb+1ast, I.Nanikashvili 8+3reb+7ast, D.Peterson 4+1reb

Hapoel Afula - Elitzur Ramla 77-84 OT

Elitzur Ramla (8-11) outlasted Hapoel Afula (10-9) in overtime by seven points 84-77 on Tuesday night. The game took place in Afula. But the guests from Ramla were better at the end. The guests trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 23-16 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 7-point victory in overtime. Elitzur Ramla made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They also forced 24 Hapoel Afula turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. American forward Stacey Moragne (195-83, college: Mass.-Lowell) fired a double-double by scoring 31 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Guard Assaf Ohana (182-91) chipped in 14 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. American guard Ronny LeMelle (196-81, college: Auburn) produced 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import forward Gregg Thondique (201-87, college: Virginia Union) added 22 points and 12 rebounds respectively for lost side. Elitzur Ramla moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Ironi Ramat Gan. Hapoel Afula lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Hod Hasharon. Elitzur Ramla will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Hapoel Afula will play again against Elitzur Ramla (#9) and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the Premier League just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Ramla: S.Moragne 31+10reb+3ast, A.Ohana 14+6reb+6ast, I.Berkowitz 10+7reb+7ast, O.Cohen 9+3reb+2ast, M.Badalov 8+9reb+2ast, R.Barzilai 6+3ast
Hapoel Afula: R.LeMelle 23+9reb+4ast, G.Thondique 22+12reb+1ast, Y.Deri 9+1reb+4ast, H.Shifman 5+3reb+4ast, O.Blayzer 5+8reb, E.Knafo 5+2reb+1ast

Hapoel Y/M - Ironi Nahariya 100-83

Bottom-ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido managed to get a sixth victory on Tuesday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Ironi Nahariya 100-83. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 17-point difference suggests that Hapoel Yokneam/Megido is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 100-83. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Ironi Nahariya's 44 and made 18-of-19 free shots (94.7 percent) during the game. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for American power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 13 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!). Swingman Inam Eiram (194-88, agency: Avi Zilberman) helped adding 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Hapoel Yokneam/Megido players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard Oren Ben Hemo (190-79) responded with 22 points and 4 assists and American swingman Marcus Ginyard (196-87, college: N.Carolina) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (6-13) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Hapoel K/S and Ironi Nahariya. Ironi Nahariya lost eighth consecutive game. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido is again looking forward to face bottom-ranked Ironi Nahariya (#14) at home in the next round. Ironi Nahariya will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Hapoel Y/M: R.Turner 32+13reb+3ast, I.Eiram 21+6reb+5ast, T.Ber-Aven 18+4reb+7ast, O.Ida 14+4reb+1ast, I.Stolero 11+4reb+5ast, J.Sztarkman 4
Ironi Nahariya: O.Ben Hemo 22+4reb+4ast, M.Ginyard 19+7reb+3ast, E.Traimel 17+7reb+3ast, L.Shvarzvald 7+5reb, A.Eliyahu 5+2reb+5ast, J.Baze 5

Ironi Ramat Gan - Elitzur Yavne 71-91

The game in Ramat Gan supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Elitzur Yavne (14-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (8-11). Elitzur Yavne did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 91-71. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Ironi Ramat Gan. The game was mostly controlled by Elitzur Yavne. Ironi Ramat Gan was better in fourth quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Elitzur Yavne dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Ironi Ramat Gan's 34. Elitzur Yavne forced 25 Ironi Ramat Gan turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Elad Hofman (192-85) who helped to win the game recording 27 points. American swingman Brian Laing (195-85, college: Seton Hall, agency: I.D.S. Law) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Elitzur Yavne's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Dror Davidi (190-84) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) and swingman Yariv Yatzkan (199-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Ironi Ramat Gan. Four Ironi Ramat Gan players scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Elitzur Yavne. They maintain third place with 14-5 record having just two points less than leader Hapoel T-A. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Elitzur Yavne will have a break next round. Ironi Ramat Gan will play again at home against Elitzur Yavne (#3) and be promoted back to the Premier League just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Yavne: E.Hofman 27+4reb+2ast, B.Laing 16+3reb+2ast, E.Engel 10+2reb+4ast, T.Dray 9+4reb+4ast, A.Cohen 7+3reb+1ast, N.Golan 6+3reb+2ast
Ironi Ramat Gan: D.Davidi 20+8reb+3ast, A.Tamir 18+5reb+1ast, Y.Yatzkan 12+8reb+5ast, R.Pitshon 10+14reb, L.Rubinstein 8+1ast, C.Zigdon 2+2reb

Macc.B.Yaakov - Ironi Nes-Ziona 93-85

Very predictable result when second ranked Beer Yaakov (15-4) defeated at home 7th ranked Ironi Nes-Ziona (9-10) 93-85 on Tuesday. Ironi Nes-Ziona was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 31-21 charge of Beer Yaakov, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 23 Ironi Nes-Ziona turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for forward Jermaine Hall (196-80, college: Wagner) who led his team to a victory scoring 28 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Nate Miller (193-87, college: Bowling Green) helped adding 19 points, 5 rebounds, 10 assists and 6 steals. At the losing side forward Gabe Blair (203-87, college: Wichita St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 18 rebounds and swingman Bilal Benn (196-86, college: Niagara) scored 19 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals (made all of his eight free throws). Five Beer Yaakov and four Ironi Nes-Ziona players scored in double figures. Beer Yaakov maintains second place with 15-4 record behind leader Hapoel T-A. Loser Ironi Nes-Ziona keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Beer Yaakov will face again Ironi Nes-Ziona (#7) in Nes Ziyona in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game.
Top scorers:
Macc.B.Yaakov: J.Hall 28+6reb+2ast, N.Miller 19+5reb+10ast, Y.Bet-Yosef 17+4reb+6ast, I.Simin 13+3reb+2ast, I.Buchman 10+7reb+4ast, L.Hason 6
Ironi Nes-Ziona: G.Blair 24+18reb+1ast, B.Benn 19+5reb+4ast, D.Assaf 15+3reb+7ast, D.Bank 12+2reb+2ast, R.Zehavian 9+5reb+2ast, T.Karpeles 4+1ast

Hapoel K/S - Hapoel T-A 55-86

National League top team - Hapoel Tel-Aviv (16-3) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed twelfth ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (6-13) 86-55. It looked good early as Hapoel Kfar Saba took an 6-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Hapoel Tel-Aviv had a 25-11 second period charge getting the lead and Hapoel Kfar Saba was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 55-86. Hapoel Tel-Aviv dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Hapoel Kfar Saba's 28. Hapoel Tel-Aviv forced 19 Hapoel Kfar Saba turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. It was a quality performance for guard Aviram Zelkovits (193-89) who led the winners and scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. American Curtis Kelly (205-88, college: Kansas St.) accounted for 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. American forward Marshall Moses (198-89, college: Oklahoma St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import guard Errick McCollum (185-88, college: Goshen, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Hapoel Kfar Saba in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Hapoel Tel-Aviv have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 16-3 record. Hapoel Kfar Saba at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Hapoel Y/M and Ironi Nahariya. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Hapoel Kfar Saba will play again at home against the league's leader Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Hapoel T-A: A.Zelkovits 23+8reb+2ast, C.Kelly 17+10reb+3ast, Y.Shiran 10+1reb+1ast, D.Stitt 10+4reb+1ast, B.Timor 8+4reb+4ast, M.Naor 7+6reb+3ast
Hapoel K/S: M.Moses 15+12reb, E.McCollum 12+5reb+2ast, H.Karni 9+4reb, O.Ron 6+5reb+3ast, A.Harush 5+8reb+1ast, M.Marztiano 2+1reb

Israeli Premier League round 17 best performance: Brandon Bowman - by Eurobasket News
American forward Brandon Bowman (204-F-84) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Maccabi Rishon, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Ironi Ashkelon (#5, 9-7) 84-79. Maccabi Rishon is placed at 4th position in Israeli Premier League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Maccabi Rishon will need more victories to improve their 9-6 record. Bowman turned to be Maccabi Rishon's top player in his first season with the team. Brandon Bowman averages this season 15.8ppg and 7.3rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Bryant Dunston (202-F/C-86) of Hapoel Holon. Dunston had a very good evening with a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds. It was enough for Hapoel Holon to edge the lower-ranked Elitzur Netanya (#9, 5-10) 71-70. This victory allowed Hapoel Holon to move up to 3rd position in the standings. His team's 10-6 record is not bad at all. Dunston is a newcomer at Hapoel Holon, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was international guard Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) of league's top team Maccabi T-A. Ohayon scored 20 points and passed eight assists. He was a key player of Maccabi T-A, leading his team to a 104-100 win against the lower-ranked Hapoel J-M (#6, 8-8). Maccabi T-A confirms their top position in the standings Ohayon has a great season in Israel. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.7apg (8th best). He also has 2.1spg and FGP: 50.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Romeo Travis (200-PF-84) of Galil Gilboa - 28 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86) of Galil Gilboa - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Yuval Naimy (188-PG-85) of Hapoel J-M - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 10 assists
7. Tyler Wilkerson (202-F-88) of Maccabi Haifa - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Brian Asbury (200-F-86) of Elitzur Netanya - 18 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Demetri McCamey (190-G-89) of Hapoel J-M - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Alex Tyus (203-F-88) of Maccabi Ashdod - 17 points and 7 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)

Standings - National League

National League Standings

1. Hapoel T-A		16-3
2. Macc.B.Yaakov		15-4
3. Elitzur Yavne		14-5
4. Kiryat Tivon		11-8
5. Hod Hasharon		10-9
6. Hapoel Afula		10-9
7. Ironi Nes-Ziona		9-10
8. Ironi Ramat Gan		8-11
9. Elitzur Ramla		8-11
10. Ironi K-A		7-12
11. Lev Hasharon		7-12
12. Hapoel K/S		6-13
13. Hapoel Y/M		6-13
14. Ironi Nahariya		6-13

Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game

Errick MCCOLLUM
  Hapoel K.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 24.8

1. McCollum, Hapoel K.	24.8
2. Hall, Macc.B.Y.	23.9
3. Sanders, Hapoel Y.	23.1
4. Clinch, Lev H.	22.7
5. Miller, Macc.B.Y.	22.4
6. Ginyard, Ironi N.	21.9
7. Clemente, Kiryat T.	21.7
8. Moragne, Elitzur	21.2
9. Daniel, Ironi K-A	21.1
10. Thondique, Hapoel	20.7

Rebounds Per Game

Ramon CLEMENTE
  Kiryat T.
  (200-PF-85)
  Avg: 15.1

1. Clemente, Kiryat T.	15.1
2. Thondique, Hapoel	12.9
3. Moses, Hapoel K/S	11.8
4. Rosefelt, Lev H.	11.4
5. Blair, Ironi N.	10.5
6. Daniel, Ironi K-A	10.2
7. Webb, Ironi R.	10.1
8. Turner, Hapoel Y/M	9.6
9. Bacon, Elitzur Ram.	9.1
10. Kelly, Hapoel T-A	9.1

Assists Per Game

Lior SEGEV
  Kiryat Tivon
  (190-PG-83)
  Avg: 7.8

1. Segev, Kiryat Tivon	7.8
2. Sukar, Hod Hashar.	6.9
3. Nanikashvili, Iron.	6.7
4. Eliyahu, Ironi N.	6.6
5. Bannister, Ironi R.	6.3
6. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	6.2
7. Rub, Lev Hasharon	6.0
8. Assaf, Ironi N.	5.6
9. Bet-Yosef, Macc.B.	4.9
10. Gonzalez, Hod H.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Lior SEGEV
  Kiryat Tivon
  (190-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Segev, Kiryat Tivon	3.7
2. Bet-Yosef, Macc.B.	3.2
3. Miller, Macc.B.Y.	2.7
4. Hofman, Elitzur	2.7
5. Benn, Ironi N.	2.5
6. Sanders, Hapoel Y.	2.4
7. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	2.4
8. McCollum, Hapoel K.	2.4
9. Eliyahu, Ironi N.	2.3
10. Housman, Macc.B.Y.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Lenny DANIEL
  Ironi K-A
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Daniel, Ironi K-A	2.8
2. Kelly, Hapoel T-A	2.2
3. Johnson, Hod H.	1.9
4. Blair, Ironi N.	1.8
5. Jackson, Hapoel Y.	1.8
6. Webb, Ironi R.	1.7
7. Thondique, Hapoel	1.5
8. Clemente, Kiryat T.	1.5
9. Dawson, Ironi K-A	1.4
10. Bacon, Elitzur Ra.	1.2

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

ITALY

EuroCup: ALBA spoil Berlin trip for Benetton - by Eurobasket News
ALBA - Benetton 83:74

ALBA claimed the first win at EuroCup Last 16 stage. They knocked down Benetton Treviso to climb at 1-4 record in Group L. DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) posted 22 points and 9 assists to lead the winners. Benetton fell at 3-2 record and share the top spot in the Group with Lokomotiv and Lietuvos Rytas.
ALBA stormed into the game. They fired 26 points to establish a 10-point lead at the first break. Benetton came back to life in the second frame. The Treviso outfit narrowed the gap to 7 points at the interval 34:41. Benetton took over in the third quarter. The Italian team held ALBA to only 6 points in the third frame to establish a 56:47 lead with one quart remaining. But it was not enough for Benetton. ALBA smashed the visitors in the fourth period. The hosts unleashed 36 points in the final term and rallied to a comfortable win. Kyle Weaver (198-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington St.) provided 13 points, while Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) and Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) contributed 12 points each in the victory. Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) answered with 17 points for Benetton. Jeffrey Viggiano (197-F-84, college: Massachusetts) and Marcus Goree (201-F-77, college: W.Virginia) had 13 points apiece in the loss.

ALBA: DaShaun Wood 22, Kyle Weaver 13, Torin Francis 12, Bryce Taylor 12
Benetton: Sani Becirovic 17, Jeffrey Viggiano 13, Marcus Goree 13

Drew Nicholas and Olimpia Milano part ways - by Andrea Centenari
Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) and Olimpia EA7 Emporio Armani Milano reached an agreement to part ways according to the italian team official site. The american shooting guard returned to Italy last summer after the experience in Greece with Panathinaikos Athens
Nicholas was struggling during this season averaging 8.3ppg in Serie A and 7.4ppg in Euroleague (29.7% from behind the arc).
Now the player might move to Caja Laboral Vitoria who is looking for a shooting guard.

Lega2 Round 21: Trenkwalder RE beats Sigma Barcellona by one after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 21 in the Lega2 took place in Reggio Emilia. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 5th ranked Sigma Barcellona (11-8) to first ranked Trenkwalder RE (14-4) 63-62 on Sunday evening. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 63-62. 25 personal fouls committed by Sigma Barcellona helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American guard Dawan Robinson (189-82, college: Rhode Island) who saved his team from a defeat with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. The former international swingman Michele Antonutti (202-86) contributed with 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Trenkwalder RE's coach Massimiliano Menetti used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American point guard Mike Green (185-85, college: Butler) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Sigma Barcellona. Trenkwalder RE maintains first place with 14-4 record. Sigma Barcellona at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Trenkwalder RE are looking forward to face Givova Scafati (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Sigma Barcellona will play against Tezenis Verona and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Bottom-ranked S.Antimo managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the series of two consecutive loses. This time newly promoted S.Antimo won against ninth-ranked Tezenis Verona in Sant'Antimo 77-70. American point guard Troy Bell (186-80, college: Boston Coll.) stepped up and scored 25 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and Folarin Campbell chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American-German power forward Keith Waleskowski (204-80, college: Dayton) with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Newly promoted S.Antimo maintains fifteenth place with 6-13 record. Tezenis Verona lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with 12 games lost. S.Antimo will play against higher ranked Enel Brindisi (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tezenis Verona will play against Sigma Barcellona (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Brescia was also quite interesting. Third ranked Tuscany Pistoia (14-6) played at the court of 6th ranked Centrale Latte (11-9). Tuscany Pistoia managed to secure a 5-point victory 85-80 on Sunday. Dwight Hardy nailed 23 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Leemire Goldwire came up with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Centrale Latte in the defeat. Centrale Latte's coach Sandro Dell Agnello rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tuscany Pistoia moved-up to second place, which they share with Givova Scafati. Loser Centrale Latte keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. Tuscany Pistoia will meet at home Fileni BPA (#7) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Centrale Latte will play against Biancoblu BO in Bologna and hope to secure a win.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Enel Brindisi (13-7) and Fileni BPA (9-10), which took place in Jesi. 4th placed Enel Brindisi lost to ninth ranked Fileni BPA in a road game 82-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Enel Brindisi. The best player for the winners was Richard McConnell who scored 25 points (went 13 for 13 at the free throw line !!!). Fileni BPA's coach Stefano Cioppi allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Fileni BPA moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Morpho Basket. Enel Brindisi at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. Fileni BPA's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Tuscany Pistoia on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Enel Brindisi will play against S.Antimo in Sant'Antimo and be promoted back to the SerieA just one year after relegation.
The game between tenth ranked Assi Ostuni (9-11) and 11th ranked Biancoblu BO (7-12) in Ostuni on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Assi Ostuni beat guests from Bologna 76-63. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Biancoblu BO. It was a good game for Mareks Jurevicus who led his team to a victory with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Assi Ostuni moved-up to ninth place. Biancoblu BO at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Assi Ostuni will face Prima Veroli (#12) on the road in the next round. Biancoblu BO will play against Centrale Latte in Brescia.

In the last two games of round 21 Givova Scafati beat Aget Imola on the road 86-77. MarcoPoloShop lost to Prima Veroli on its own court 68-73.

Trenkwalder - Sigma Barcel. 63-62

The most exciting game of round 21 in the Lega2 took place in Reggio Emilia. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 5th ranked Sigma Barcellona (11-8) to first ranked Trenkwalder RE (14-4) 63-62 on Sunday evening. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 63-62. 25 personal fouls committed by Sigma Barcellona helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American guard Dawan Robinson (189-82, college: Rhode Island) who saved his team from a defeat with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. The former international swingman Michele Antonutti (202-86) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Trenkwalder RE's coach Massimiliano Menetti used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American point guard Mike Green (185-85, college: Butler) answered with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Panamanian swingman Michael Hicks (194-76, college: Texas A&M-CC) added 13 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Sigma Barcellona. Trenkwalder RE maintains first place with 14-4 record. Sigma Barcellona at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Trenkwalder RE are looking forward to face Givova Scafati (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Sigma Barcellona will play against Tezenis Verona and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Sigma Barcel.: M.Green 16+7reb+5ast, M.Hicks 13+5reb, M.Lukauskis 11+5reb+2ast, M.Mocavero 9+2reb, L.Dordei 7+9reb+1ast, P.Martin 4+7reb
Trenkwalder: D.Robinson 16+5reb+4ast, D.Taylor 14+4reb+1ast, M.Antonutti 12+10reb, R.Chiacig 6+7reb, R.Cervi 4+6reb+1ast, D.Slanina 4+1reb

Aget Imola - Givova Scafati 77-86

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Givova Scafati (14-6) beat on the road 12th ranked Aget Imola (7-13) 86-77 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-77. It was a good game for American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). His fellow American import guard Paul Marigney (192-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) contributed with 21 points and 5 assists for the winners. American swingman Ronald DuPree (199-81, college: LSU, agency: Priority Sports) answered with 21 points and 5 rebounds and naturalized Argentinian guard Patricio Prato (196-79) added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Aget Imola. Five Givova Scafati and four Aget Imola players scored in double figures. Givova Scafati have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Giorgio Tesi PT. Loser Aget Imola dropped to the thirteenth position with 13 games lost. Givova Scafati will face league's leader Trenkwalder RE in Reggio Emilia in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week.
Top scorers:
Aget Imola: R.DuPree 21+5reb+3ast, P.Prato 16+7reb+4ast, T.Whiting 13+5reb+3ast, D.Bruttini 10+4reb, F.Masoni 6+2reb, F.Foiera 5+4reb
Givova Scafati: P.Marigney 21+4reb+5ast, J.Thomas 19+10reb+1ast, N.Radulovic 12+4reb, O.Gueye 11+2reb, G.Sorrentino 10+1reb, M.Casini 6+1reb+1ast

Assi Ostuni - Biancoblu BO 76-63

The game between tenth ranked Assi Ostuni (9-11) and 11th ranked Biancoblu BO (7-12) in Ostuni on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Assi Ostuni beat guests from Bologna 76-63. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Biancoblu BO. The game was mostly controlled by Assi Ostuni. Biancoblu BO was better in third quarter 24-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Assi Ostuni outrebounded Biancoblu BO 35-23 including a 33-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Assi Ostuni especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 61.5 percentage. Biancoblu BO was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for Latvian swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85) who led his team to a victory with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). American point guard Aaron Johnson (172-88, college: UAB) contributed with 15 points and 5 assists for the winners. The former international guard Brett Blizzard (191-80, college: NC-Wilmington) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds and the former international power forward Matteo Canavesi (204-86) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Biancoblu BO. Assi Ostuni moved-up to ninth place. Biancoblu BO at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Assi Ostuni will face Prima Veroli (#12) on the road in the next round. Biancoblu BO will play against Centrale Latte in Brescia.
Top scorers:
Biancoblu BO: B.Blizzard 17+6reb+2ast, G.Yango 12+1reb, M.Canavesi 10+6reb+2ast, A.Pecile 9+1reb+2ast, T.Kelley 5+2reb+6ast, D.Cutolo 4+2reb
Assi Ostuni: M.Jurevicus 17+5reb+4ast, A.Johnson 15+3reb+5ast, T.Rinaldi 14+4reb, D.Diliegro 8+9reb, J.Klobucar 7+5reb+3ast, S.Berti 6+2reb

Centrale Latte - Giorgio Tesi PT 80-85

The game in Brescia was also quite interesting. Third ranked Tuscany Pistoia (14-6) played at the court of 6th ranked Centrale Latte (11-9). Tuscany Pistoia managed to secure a 5-point victory 85-80 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-80. American point guard Dwight Hardy (188-87, college: St.John's) nailed 23 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and power forward Fiorello Toppo (198-80) accounted for 9 points and 13 rebounds. American point guard Leemire Goldwire (182-85, college: Charlotte, agency: Interperformances) came up with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and the other American import guard Ryan Thompson (198-89, college: Rider) added 18 points respectively for Centrale Latte in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Centrale Latte's coach Sandro Dell Agnello rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tuscany Pistoia moved-up to second place, which they share with Givova Scafati. Loser Centrale Latte keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. Tuscany Pistoia will meet at home Fileni BPA (#7) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Centrale Latte will play against Biancoblu BO in Bologna and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Centrale Latte: R.Thompson 18+3reb+2ast, L.Goldwire 17+8reb+5ast, M.Rezzano 13+5reb, M.Jose Ghersetti 12+5reb+3ast, M.Farioli 9+9reb+1ast, R.Rombaldoni 6+2reb+1ast
Giorgio Tesi PT: D.Hardy 23+7reb+2ast, J.Tavernari 16+3reb+2ast, G.Gurini 16+2reb, G.Galanda 12+3reb+3ast, F.Toppo 9+13reb+3ast, B.Jones 6+9reb

S.Antimo - Tezenis Verona 77-70

Bottom-ranked S.Antimo managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the series of two consecutive loses. This time newly promoted S.Antimo won against ninth-ranked Tezenis Verona in Sant'Antimo 77-70. The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 30-17 run, which allowed them to win the game. S.Antimo made 19-of-22 charity shots (86.4 percent) during the game. American point guard Troy Bell (186-80, college: Boston Coll.) stepped up and scored 25 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and his fellow American import guard Folarin Campbell (192-86, college: George Mason) chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American-German power forward Keith Waleskowski (204-80, college: Dayton) with 17 points and 9 rebounds and American guard Mario West (195-84, college: Georgia Tech) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. Four Tezenis Verona players scored in double figures. Newly promoted S.Antimo maintains fifteenth place with 6-13 record. Tezenis Verona lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with 12 games lost. S.Antimo will play against higher ranked Enel Brindisi (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tezenis Verona will play against Sigma Barcellona (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Tezenis Verona: K.Waleskowski 17+9reb+1ast, M.West 14+7reb+1ast, A.Porta 12+3reb+6ast, C.DiGiuliomaria 10+4reb+1ast, D.Vukcevic 8+2reb+2ast, A.Renzi 5+3reb
S.Antimo: T.Bell 25+7reb+7ast, G.Eliantonio 17+7reb, F.Campbell 16+8reb+1ast, A.Cittadini 9+7reb, M.Rossi 5+2reb+1ast, R.Moraschini 5+1reb

Fileni BPA - Enel Brindisi 92-82

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Enel Brindisi (13-7) and Fileni BPA (9-10), which took place in Jesi. 4th placed Enel Brindisi lost to ninth ranked Fileni BPA in a road game 82-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Enel Brindisi. It looked good early as Enel Brindisi took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Fileni BPA had a 26-12 second period charge getting the lead and Enel Brindisi was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 82-92. Fileni BPA made 30-of-33 charity shots (90.9 percent) during the game, while Enel Brindisi only scored nine points from the stripe. 26 personal fouls committed by Enel Brindisi helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Richard McConnell (182-89, college: St.Mary's, CA, agency: Priority Sports) who scored 25 points (went 13 for 13 at the free throw line !!!). The former international center Michele Maggioli (212-77) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. Fileni BPA's coach Stefano Cioppi allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Serbian power forward Dejan Borovnjak (207-86, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 20 points and American guard Jimmy Hunter (197-77, college: Life) added 21 points respectively. Five Fileni BPA and four Enel Brindisi players scored in double figures. Fileni BPA moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Morpho Basket. Enel Brindisi at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. Fileni BPA's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Tuscany Pistoia on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Enel Brindisi will play against S.Antimo in Sant'Antimo and be promoted back to the SerieA just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Enel Brindisi: J.Hunter 21+2reb+3ast, D.Borovnjak 20+4reb+3ast, C.Callahan 16+7reb, M.Maestrello 13+1reb, M.Giuri 6+1reb, A.Renfroe 5+6reb+1ast
Fileni BPA: R.McConnell 25+3reb+1ast, J.Brooks 18+4reb+1ast, M.Maggioli 16+11reb, R.Hoover 14+1reb+1ast, F.Migliori 13+3reb+2ast, J.Valentini 6+5reb

MarcoPoloShop - Prima Veroli 68-73

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 13th ranked MarcoPoloShop.it (6-12) lost to fourteenth ranked Prima Veroli (7-12) in Forli 68-73 on Sunday. MarcoPoloShop.it trailed by 14 points after 3 quarters before a 22-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 68-73 at the end of the game. They outrebounded MarcoPoloShop.it 35-22 including 27 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for guard Roberto Rullo (192-90) who led his team to a victory with 14 points. The former international forward David Brkic (210-82, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 6 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Prima Veroli's coach Fernando Gentile used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American guard Austin Freeman (190-89, college: Georgetown) answered with 19 points and 5 assists and Finnish swingman Shawn Huff (198-84, college: Valparaiso) added 20 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for MarcoPoloShop.it. Prima Veroli moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Biancoblu BO. MarcoPoloShop.it lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourteenth position with 12 games lost. Prima Veroli will face higher ranked Assi Ostuni (#9) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. MarcoPoloShop.it will play against Morpho Basket (#8) in Piacenza.
Top scorers:
MarcoPoloShop: S.Huff 20+5reb+1ast, A.Freeman 19+4reb+5ast, L.Campani 10+3reb, N.Natali 8+8reb+1ast, S.Borsato 7+4ast, R.Casoli 4+2reb
Prima Veroli: R.Rullo 14+2reb+1ast, J.Jackson 10+1reb+1ast, R.Cortese 8+6reb, B.Elder 8+3reb+3ast, D.Brkic 6+8reb+2ast, A.Giovacchini 6+6reb+3ast

stats leader

Points Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.5

1. Musso, Napoli	19.5
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	17.4
3. Mei, Comsum.it SI	15.7
4. Ferrarese, Castell.	15.4
5. Prandin, Casalp.	15.2
6. Carrizo, Ferentino	14.9
7. Portannese, Torino	14.8
8. Benevelli, Orlandi.	14.7
9. Ruggiero, Bari	14.5
10. Pazzi, Trento	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.7

1. Rossi, Chieti	12.7
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.9
3. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.7
4. Borra, Treviglio	8.5
5. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	8.3
6. Tessitori, Comsum..	8.2
7. Gandini, Trieste	8.1
8. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.0
9. Raminelli, Castell.	7.6
10. Ferraro, Trieste	7.5

Assists Per Game

Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Bertolazzi, Omegna	4.5
2. Musso, Napoli	4.1
3. Stanic, Fabriano	3.7
4. Guarino, Ferentino	3.2
5. Vico, Matera	3.2
6. Ferrarese, Castell.	3.1
7. Santolamazza, Ana.	3.0
8. Zanelli, Orlandina	2.9
9. Forray, Trento	2.8
10. Iannilli, Napoli	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Iardella, Fabriano	3.3
2. Musso, Napoli	3.0
3. Bertolazzi, Omegna	3.0
4. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
5. Portannese, Torino	2.8
6. Amici, Firenze	2.8
7. Rossi, Chieti	2.8
8. Truccolo, Perugia	2.7
9. Rivali, Santarcang.	2.7
10. Guarino, Ferentino	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrea ANCELLOTTI
  Santar.
  (212-C-88)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.7
2. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.6
3. Borra, Treviglio	1.5
4. Candido, San Seve.	1.3
5. Pascolo, Trento	1.0
6. Benevelli, Orlandi.	1.0
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	1.0
8. Gandini, Trieste	1.0
9. Cazzaniga, Pavia	0.9
10. Biligha, Casalp.	0.9

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trento		17-7
2. Trieste		17-7
3. Perugia		11-12
4. Comsum.it SI		7-16
5. Firenze		7-17
6. Santarcangelo		6-17
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		22-3
2. Torino		17-8
3. Treviglio		14-10
4. Casalpusterlengo		13-11
5. Pavia		13-12
6. Castelletto		8-16
Div.South-East
1. Bari		13-11
2. Chieti		12-11
3. Recanati		12-11
4. San Severo		9-14
5. Fabriano		7-16
6. Ruvo		3-21
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		20-4
2. Orlandina		15-9
3. Ferentino		13-9
4. Matera		11-12
5. Latina Basket		10-13
6. Anagni		7-15

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game

Dwight HARDY
  Giorgio .
  (188-PG-87)
  Avg: 22.7

1. Hardy, Giorgio	22.7
2. Marigney, Givova S.	22.6
3. Freeman, MarcoPol.	21.6
4. McConnell, Fileni	19.3
5. Robinson, Trenkwal.	18.8
6. Voskuil, Morpho B.	18.6
7. Taylor, Trenkwal.	18.5
8. Whiting, Aget Imola	17.9
9. Rowe, Prima Veroli	17.0
10. Maggioli, Fileni	16.9

Rebounds Per Game

James THOMAS
  Givova S.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11

1. Thomas, Givova S.	11.0
2. Easley, MarcoPol.	9.4
3. Diliegro, Assi Ost.	8.1
4. Anderson, Morpho B.	7.9
5. Borovnjak, Enel B.	7.7
6. Baldassarre, Bianc.	7.4
7. Maggioli, Fileni B.	7.3
8. Jones, Giorgio	7.2
9. Brkic, Prima Veroli	6.8
10. Huff, MarcoPol.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Aaron JOHNSON
  Assi O.
  (172-PG-88)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Johnson, Assi O.	5.2
2. Porta, Tezenis	4.6
3. Green, Sigma B.	4.5
4. Kelley, Biancobl.	3.8
5. Marigney, Givova S.	3.6
6. Renfroe, Enel B.	3.3
7. Rowe, Prima Veroli	3.3
8. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.3
9. McConnell, Fileni	3.2
10. Blizzard, Biancob.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Mario WEST
  Tezenis .
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1

1. West, Tezenis	3.1
2. Radulovic, Givova	2.9
3. Rowe, Prima Veroli	2.8
4. Marigney, Givova S.	2.6
5. Goldwire, Centra.	2.5
6. McConnell, Fileni	2.4
7. Thompson, Centra.	2.4
8. Taylor, Trenkwal.	2.3
9. Robinson, Trenkwal.	2.3
10. Ghersetti, Centra.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Riccardo CERVI
  Trenkwalder
  (215-C-91)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Cervi, Trenkwalder	2.1
2. Maggioli, Fileni B.	1.5
3. Brkic, Prima Veroli	0.8
4. Trapani, MarcoPol.	0.8
5. Thomas, Givova S.	0.8
6. Radulovic, Givova	0.7
7. Edwards, Tezenis	0.7
8. Da Ros, Sigma B.	0.7
9. Renzi, Tezenis	0.6
10. Busma, Centrale.	0.6

Standings - Lega 2

Lega2 Standings

1. Trenkwalder		14-4
2. Giorgio Tesi PT		14-6
3. Givova Scafati		14-6
4. Enel Brindisi		13-7
5. Sigma Barcel.		11-8
6. Centrale Latte		11-9
7. Fileni BPA		9-10
8. Morpho Basket		9-10
9. Assi Ostuni		9-11
10. Tezenis Verona		8-12
11. Biancoblu BO		7-12
12. Prima Veroli		7-12
13. Aget Imola		7-13
14. MarcoPoloShop		6-12
15. S.Antimo		6-13

Verona waives Dusan Vukcevic - by Andrea Centenari
Italian Legadue team Tezenis Verona waived Dusan Vukcevic (201-F-75, agency: Interperformances) after the third consecutive loss in the league. Vukcevic was averaging 10.2ppg (32,6% from three point) in Legadue in this season. He was the first Verona's acquisition last summer from Crabs Rimini where he played only one year (14,2 ppg and 2,7 rpg). Now Verona is on the market to find out a shooter. Also the position of Mario West (196-G-84, college: Georgia Tech) is in strong doubt.

Nazionale A Round 25: Bari keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The round was exceptionally exciting as three games ended with a tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Bari as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Bari defeated 4th placed Matera at home 72-68. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Matera. Matera was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 19-14 charge of Bari, which allowed them to win the game. They made 18-of-19 free shots (94.7 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Luca De Bellis (185-77) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 6 assists. Center Domenico Morena (210-70) contributed with 7 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Naturalized Argentinian guard Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) answered with 24 points and 4 assists for Matera. Matera's coach Francesco Ponticiello rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bari 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 Casalpusterlengo. Matera at the other side dropped to the third place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Perugia. Matera will play next round against Latina Basket trying to get back on the winning streak. Bari will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Orlandina on the road.
The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Recanati (12-11) at the home court. Hosts were edged by Napoli (20-4) 94-92. Naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) stepped up and scored 26 points and 9 assists for the winners and Nelson Rizzitiello chipped in 19 points. At the losing side forward Attilio Pierini (201-81) responded with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Napoli have an impressive series of ten victories in a row. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first place with 20-4 record. Recanati at the other side dropped to the second position with 11 games lost. They share it with Chieti. Napoli will play against league's second-placed Chieti at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Recanati will play against Ferentino and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Orlandina between Orlandina and Ferentino. Second ranked Orlandina (15-9) got a very close home victory over 3rd placed Ferentino (13-9). Orlandina managed to escape with a 3-point win 71-68 in the fight for the second place. Andrea Benevelli nailed a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Francesco Guarino came up with 15 points for Ferentino in the defeat. Ferentino's coach Franco Gramenzi tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Newly promoted Orlandina maintains second place with 15-9 record having five points less than leader Trento. Loser Ferentino keeps the third position with nine games lost. Orlandina will meet at home league's leader Bari in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ferentino will play against Recanati and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Fifth-ranked Firenze (7-17) used its home court advantage to challenge fifth ranked Pavia (13-12). The visitors from Pavia managed to secure only one-point victory 65-64. However their fans expected easier game. Federico Maiocco fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Pavia maintains fifth place with 13-12 record which they share with defeated Firenze. Firenze lost their third game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth position with 17 games lost. Pavia's next round opponent will be higher ranked Treviglio (#3) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Firenze will play against the league's leader Omegna.
Sixth-ranked Ruvo (3-21) was very close to win a game against fifth ranked Latina Basket (10-13) on Sunday. Latina Basket managed to secure only one-point victory 91-90. However their fans expected easier game. It was a very good performance for Marko Micevic who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 5 rebounds. Latina Basket maintains fifth place with 10-13 record. Ruvo lost their third game in a row. They keep the sixth position with 21 games lost. Latina Basket will face higher ranked Matera (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ruvo will play against Mazzeo San Severo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games in round 25 were not that significant. San Severo beat Anagni on the road 73-71. Chieti won against Fabriano on its own court 60-48. Treviglio unfortunately lost to Trieste in a road game 67-75. Casalpusterlengo rolled over Comsum.it SI at home 89-68. Santarcangelo was defeated by Trento on the opponent's court 82-66. Torino beat Castelletto in a home game 87-82. Omegna won against Perugia on the road 85-80.

Anagni - San Severo 71-73

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (9-14) edged on the road 6th ranked Anagni (7-15) 73-71 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 42-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a very good performance for swingman Ivan Scarponi (196-86) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Giovanni Fattori (202-85) contributed with 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Players Group) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and the former international guard Riccardo Santolamazza (195-83) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Anagni. Four Anagni players scored in double figures. Mazzeo San Severo maintains fourth place with 9-14 record. Loser Anagni keeps the sixth position with 15 games lost. Mazzeo San Severo will face Ruvo (#6) in Ruvo di Puglia in the next round. Anagni will play against Fabriano and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
San Severo: I.Scarponi 18+6reb, F.Amoroso 14+3reb+2ast, G.Fattori 14+7reb, R.Marzoli 9+5reb, G.Rugolo 6+3reb+1ast, F.Lovatti 6+3reb+1ast
Anagni: R.Santolamazza 14+4reb+5ast, M.Baroncelli 13+3reb, L.Ciribeni 12+3reb+1ast, D.Corral 12+10reb+1ast, N.Benedusi 8+4reb, J.Pozzi 7+3reb

Orlandina - Ferentino 71-68

A very close game took place in Orlandina between Orlandina and Ferentino. Second ranked Orlandina (15-9) got a very close home victory over 3rd placed Ferentino (13-9). Orlandina managed to escape with a 3-point win 71-68 in the fight for the second place. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 17-11. But Ferentino won second period 19-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Orlandina won last quarter 18-16. They also forced 19 Ferentino turnovers. Forward Andrea Benevelli (202-85) nailed a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side and the former international guard Fabio Zanelli (196-76) accounted for 19 points. Guard Francesco Guarino (182-79) came up with 15 points and forward Francesco Ihedioha (196-86) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Ferentino in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ferentino's coach Franco Gramenzi tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Newly promoted Orlandina maintains second place with 15-9 record having five points less than leader Trento. Loser Ferentino keeps the third position with nine games lost. Orlandina will meet at home league's leader Bari in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ferentino will play against Recanati and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Orlandina: F.Zanelli 19+2reb+1ast, N.Crow 12+2reb+1ast, M.Cardinali 12+3reb+3ast, A.Benevelli 11+12reb+2ast, L.Bisconti 9+3reb, G.Zampolli 7+4reb+2ast
Ferentino: F.Guarino 15+4reb+1ast, F.Gagliardo 13+4reb, F.Ihedioha 10+8reb, F.Marcante 10+2reb, A.Iannuzzi 8+6reb, M.Carrizo 5+1reb+1ast

Recanati - Napoli 92-94

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Recanati (12-11) at the home court. Hosts were edged by Napoli (20-4) 94-92. They made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. Napoli forced 20 Recanati turnovers. They shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 53.6 percentage. Naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) stepped up and scored 26 points and 9 assists for the winners and swingman Nelson Rizzitiello (198-84) chipped in 19 points. At the losing side forward Attilio Pierini (201-81) responded with 24 points and 9 rebounds and guard Andrea Traini (-93) scored 20 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Four Recanati players scored in double figures. Napoli have an impressive series of ten victories in a row. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first place with 20-4 record. Recanati at the other side dropped to the second position with 11 games lost. They share it with Chieti. Napoli will play against league's second-placed Chieti at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Recanati will play against Ferentino and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Napoli: B.Musso 26+4reb+9ast, N.Rizzitiello 19+4reb+2ast, N.Sabbatino 12+1reb+1ast, G.Guastaferro 9+2reb+1ast, A.Iannilli 9+11reb+3ast, S.Gatti 6+13reb
Recanati: A.Pierini 24+9reb+2ast, S.Centanni 20+2reb+2ast, A.Traini 20+6reb+7ast, P.Chiarello 12+5reb+2ast, F.Gilardi 6+1reb+5ast, A.Cecchetti 4+1reb

Bari - Matera 72-68

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Bari as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Bari defeated 4th placed Matera at home 72-68. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Matera. Matera was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 19-14 charge of Bari, which allowed them to win the game. They made 18-of-19 free shots (94.7 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Luca De Bellis (185-77) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 6 assists. Center Domenico Morena (210-70) contributed with 7 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Naturalized Argentinian guard Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) answered with 24 points and 4 assists and the former international swingman Andrea Pilotti (196-80, agency: Players Group) added 18 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Matera. Matera's coach Francesco Ponticiello rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bari 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 Casalpusterlengo. Matera at the other side dropped to the third place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Perugia. Matera will play next round against Latina Basket trying to get back on the winning streak. Bari will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Orlandina on the road.
Top scorers:
Bari: L.De Bellis 18+2reb+6ast, A.Ruggiero 14+4reb+2ast, M.Cardillo 13+6reb+1ast, D.Barozzi 8+5reb, D.Morena 7+11reb+6ast, F.Mian 5+1reb
Matera: S.Vico 24+2reb+4ast, A.Pilotti 18+7reb, C.Grappasonni 10+4reb+2ast, G.Cantagalli 6+3reb+1ast, P.Aprea 3+1ast, R.Martone 3+4reb+1ast

Chieti - Fabriano 60-48

Rather expected game when 5th ranked Fabriano (7-16) lost on the road to third ranked Chieti (12-11) 60-48 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Chieti. Fabriano was better in fourth quarter 15-8. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Chieti forced 24 Fabriano turnovers. Fabriano was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for the former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 10 points and 17 rebounds. Naturalized San Marino swingman Andrea Raschi (200-79) contributed with 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Chieti players scored in double figures. Power forward Luca Usberti (201-73) answered with 10 points and 9 rebounds and forward Giulio Castelletta (206-92) added 6 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Fabriano. Chieti moved-up to second place, which they share with Recanati. Fabriano lost their third game in a row. Fabriano at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the fourth position with 16 games lost. Chieti will face league's leader Napoli on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Fabriano will play against Anagni and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Chieti: A.Raschi 14+7reb+3ast, F.Gialloreto 14+1reb+4ast, M.Diomede 11+1reb+1ast, E.Rossi 10+17reb+3ast, R.Feliciangeli 8+3reb+2ast, A.Porfido 3+2reb
Fabriano: G.Sgobba 12, L.Usberti 10+9reb+1ast, N.Manuel Stanic 7+2reb+1ast, G.Castelletta 6+9reb+1ast, C.Fontani 4+1reb, A.Iardella 3+4reb+3ast

Trieste - Treviglio 75-67

The game between closely ranked teams ended with second ranked Trieste's (17-7) home victory over 3rd placed Treviglio (14-10) 75-67 on Sunday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Treviglio won third quarter 16-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Trieste won last quarter 23-17. Treviglio was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for point guard Michele Ruzzier (181-93) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 5 rebounds. Innocenzo Ferraro (200-82) contributed with 11 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) answered with 21 points and 6 assists and forward Marco Planezio (196-91) added 7 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Treviglio. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Trieste. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Trento. Loser Treviglio keeps the third place with ten games lost. Trieste will face Castelletto (#6) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Treviglio will play against Pavia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Trieste: M.Ruzzier 16+5reb+2ast, M.Carra 13+2reb+1ast, I.Ferraro 11+6reb+1ast, M.Maganza 8+8reb, A.Moruzzi 7+3reb+1ast, L.Bonetta 6
Treviglio: T.Marino 21+2reb+6ast, G.Zanella 11+3reb, J.Borra 10+4reb, A.Fabi 10, N.Cazzolato 8+5reb, M.Planezio 7+10reb+2ast

Firenze - Pavia 64-65

Fifth-ranked Firenze (7-17) used its home court advantage to challenge fifth ranked Pavia (13-12). The visitors from Pavia managed to secure only one-point victory 65-64. However their fans expected easier game. Firenze was ahead by 7 points after three quarters before a 21-13 charge of Pavia, which allowed them to win the game. Swingman Federico Maiocco (200-83) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Roberto Cazzaniga (205-78) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds. Swingman Alessandro Amici (200-91) produced 20 points and 6 rebounds and forward Stefano Spizzichini (202-90) added 7 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Pavia maintains fifth place with 13-12 record which they share with defeated Firenze. Firenze lost their third game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth position with 17 games lost. Pavia's next round opponent will be higher ranked Treviglio (#3) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Firenze will play against the league's leader Omegna.
Top scorers:
Pavia: F.Maiocco 21+7reb, L.Furlanetto 15+1reb+2ast, R.Cazzaniga 14+5reb, D.Bozzetto 8+3reb, R.Maggio 5+2reb+2ast, I.Cisse 2+4reb+1ast
Firenze: A.Amici 20+6reb+1ast, A.Giampaoli 15+1reb+1ast, F.Bellina 7+5reb+3ast, S.Spizzichini 7+8reb+2ast, D.Scodavolpe 7+1ast, M.Sanna 3+5reb+2ast

Casalpusterlengo - Comsum.it SI 89-68

There was a minor upset when 4th placed Comsum.it SI (7-16) was outscored on the road by fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo (13-11) 89-68 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Casalpusterlengo. Comsum.it SI was better in fourth quarter 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Casalpusterlengo forced 25 Comsum.it SI turnovers and had a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a very good performance for forward Giampaolo Ricci (200-91) who helped to win the game recording 9 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Roberto Prandin (188-86) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Swingman Andrea Colli (203-88, agency: Players Group) answered with 21 points and 7 rebounds and forward Stefano Simeoli (200-86) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists in the effort for Comsum.it SI. Four Comsum.it SI players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Casalpusterlengo keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Bari. Comsum.it SI lost their third game in a row. They keep the fourth place with 16 games lost. Casalpusterlengo will face league's second-placed Torino at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Comsum.it SI will play against the league's leader Trento.
Top scorers:
Casalpusterlengo: R.Prandin 17+2ast, F.Loschi 15+1reb+2ast, R.Casagrande 14+3reb+1ast, G.Ricci 9+11reb+1ast, P.Biligha 8+4reb, R.Castelli 8+4reb+1ast
Comsum.it SI: A.Colli 21+7reb, N.Mei 13+3reb, S.Simeoli 11+5reb+7ast, M.Reali 10+2reb+1ast, M.Cucco 6+1reb+2ast, C.Bianconi 3+3reb+1ast

Trento - Santarcangelo 82-66

Everything went according to plan when first ranked Trento (17-7) defeated at home 6th ranked Santarcangelo (6-17) 82-66 on Saturday. The game without a history. Trento led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Trento outrebounded Santarcangelo 36-25 including 24 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Trento especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a very good performance for center Marco Pazzi (203-79) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists. Forward Davide Pascolo (200-90) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 16 rebounds for the winners. Trento's coach Maurizio Buscaglia used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Andrea Ancellotti (212-88) answered with 9 points and 11 rebounds and guard Matteo Palermo (190-91) added 10 points and 5 assists in the effort for Santarcangelo. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Trento maintains first place with 17-7 record, which they share with Trieste. Newly promoted Santarcangelo keeps the sixth position with 17 games lost. Trento will face Comsum.it SI (#4) in Siena in the next round. Santarcangelo will play at home against Perugia.
Top scorers:
Trento: M.Pazzi 20+10reb+7ast, A.Forray 15+2reb+1ast, D.Pascolo 14+16reb+3ast, L.Conte 12+2reb, M.Spanghero 8+1reb+5ast, S.Fiorito 8+5ast
Santarcangelo: G.Broglia 15+3reb, M.Palermo 10+3reb+5ast, E.Rivali 10+2reb+3ast, L.Bedetti 10+2reb+3ast, A.Ancellotti 9+11reb, L.Pesaresi 6+1ast

Torino - Castelletto 87-82

There was no surprise when 6th ranked Castelletto (8-16) lost on the road to second ranked Torino (17-8) 87-82 on Monday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 27-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Torino made 31-of-35 free shots (88.6 percent) during the game. Torino outrebounded Castelletto 34-20 including 23 on the defensive glass. Castelletto was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for the former international forward Cristiano Masper (208-73) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 5 rebounds. The former international power forward Francesco Conti (205-83) contributed with 14 points for the winners. point guard Simone Ferrarese (182-87) answered with 15 points and 6 rebounds and guard Filiberto Dri (190-89) added 22 points (made all of his eight free throws) in the effort for Castelletto. Five Castelletto players scored in double figures. Torino maintains second place with 17-8 record having just two points less than leader Trento. Castelletto lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the sixth position with 16 games lost. Torino will face Casalpusterlengo (#4) on the road in the next round. Castelletto will play against the league's second-placed Trieste.
Top scorers:
Torino: C.Masper 22+5reb, F.Conti 14+4reb+1ast, M.Giadini 9+2reb+1ast, F.Tassinari 9+4reb, M.Portannese 8+5reb+1ast, D.Parente 8+1reb
Castelletto: F.Dri 22, S.Ferrarese 15+6reb+3ast, L.Marmugi 13+5reb, A.Iannone 11+2reb+2ast, S.Cotani 10+4reb+1ast, M.Raminelli 6+2reb

Perugia - Omegna 80-85

No shocking result in a game when first ranked Omegna (22-3) beat on the road 3rd placed Perugia (11-12) 85-80 on Sunday. It was a great shooting night for Omegna especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. Perugia was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for guard Tommaso Raspino (196-89, agency: Players Group) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). Guard Andrea Saccaggi (192-89, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 20 points for the winners. Riccardo Truccolo (190-89) answered with 26 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-91) added 11 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Perugia. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Omegna. They maintain first place with 22-3 record. Loser Perugia keeps the third position with 12 games lost. Omegna will face Firenze (#5) at home in the next round. Perugia will play against Santarcangelo in Sant'Arcangelo.
Top scorers:
Omegna: A.Saccaggi 20+1reb+1ast, T.Raspino 16+6reb, P.Picazio 13+1reb, S.Masciadri 12+6reb, M.Toure 7+1ast, P.Paci 5+2reb
Perugia: R.Truccolo 26+5reb+3ast, T.De Min 13+5reb, D.Poltroneri 13+5reb, F.Baldi Rossi 11+12reb+2ast, M.Caroldi 5+3reb+1ast, G.Chiatti 4+3reb+1ast

Latina Basket - Ruvo 91-90

Sixth-ranked Ruvo (3-21) was very close to win a game against fifth ranked Latina Basket (10-13) on Sunday. Latina Basket managed to secure only one-point victory 91-90. However their fans expected easier game. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 28-19 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Latina Basket made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Ruvo turnovers. It was a very good performance for naturalized Serbian forward Marko Micevic (198-89) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Tommaso Plateo (191-78) contributed with 18 points for the winners. Five Latina Basket players scored in double figures. Swingman Christian Villani (200-82) answered with 34 points (!!!) and Marco Tagliabue (206-86) added 23 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Ruvo. Latina Basket maintains fifth place with 10-13 record. Ruvo lost their third game in a row. They keep the sixth position with 21 games lost. Latina Basket will face higher ranked Matera (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ruvo will play against Mazzeo San Severo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Latina Basket: T.Plateo 18+1reb+2ast, R.Serena 16+1reb+4ast, R.Romano 15+3reb+2ast, M.Micevic 15+5reb+3ast, T.Milani 13+3reb+1ast, A.Quarisa 9+5reb
Ruvo: C.Villani 34+4reb+1ast, M.Tagliabue 23+9reb+1ast, G.Tomasiello 15+5reb, F.Emejuru 6+4reb, P.de Martino 4+2reb, T.Laquintana 4+1reb

Fabi Shoes Montegranaro comes back from Morocco - by Eurobasket News
Fabi Shoes Montegranaro comes back from Morocco after the International Tournament. The team finished second and lost only in the Final game to the hosts.
ASS Sale wins home tournament named 5th Annual Sale International Basketball Tournament. The African team overcame Fabi Shoes Montegranaro in the Final 86:81.
The 5th annual tournament is comprised of top level teams from Europe and Africa including Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (ITALY SerieA), JDA Dijon Bourgogne (FRANCE ProA), Groupe Sportif Petroliers Alger (Current Champion of ALGERIA), Chabab Rif Al Hoceima (MOROCCO), VFL Kirchheim Knights (GERMANY ProA) and the host team AS de Sale (Current Champions of MOROCCO).
Sale Rabat and Fabi Shoes Montegranaro scored 20 points each in the opening period and then the Italian side took 39:37 at the halftime. The hosts tied the game after three quarters and grabbed the victory due to the last stanza.
Zakaria top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Robert notched 19. Salam Bolal and Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) posted 15 apiece, while Parfait nailed 9. McNela delivered 20 points in the losing effort and Ivanov added 18. Di Bella had 15 and Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 14.

Sale Rabat: Parfait 9, Zakaria 22, Robert 19, Salam Bolal 15, Abdelhakim Zouita 15, Idrissi 6, Kourdou, Bougach, Amrani n.e., Ioubid
Fabi Shoes: Karl 8, Piunti 2, Giulio Perini (198-F-94), Fenati, Sandro Nicevic 14, Vallasciani, Di Bella 15, Valerio Mazzola (205-F/C-88) 4, McNela 20, Ivanov 18, Zoroski

Kobe Bryant:'I was really close to Virtus Bologna' - by Andrea Centenari
Kobe Bryant (198-G-78), in an interview with Sky, said that before the NBA lockout ended, he was really close to joining italian team Virtus Canadian Solar Bologna:'I would have been very happy because my dream, since I was a child, is to play in the Italian championship. I was really looking forward to start my adventure in Italy. All the rumors were true. Then the NBA lockout ended and my return to Italy but this time as a played, was cancelled. But there is still time, in the future'.
Another problem in the negotiation was the kind of contract Virtus Canadian Solar Bologna offered to Kobe. The Italian team proposed an exhibition game in Bologna, but his agent Rob Pelinka was looking for another type of deal.

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

KOSOVO

Sigal Prishtina demolished Bashkimi in friendly - by Dren Shporta
Reigning champions of Kosovo, Sigal Prishtina, registered a win against Bashkimi in a friendly match played last night in Prizrens Sezair Surroi court. Champions were better than Bashkimi in every quarter and they opened the difference constantly. In the end they win with +25 difference of 91:66.

Nearly thousand of spectators were in the Sezair Surroi court to see in action newcomings for both teams, Rolando Little and Charles Bronson of Bashkimil and; Gerald Inman and John Gilchrist of Sigal Prishtina. Ersid Ljuca of Sigal Prishtina was doing great. He was helped from Edmond Azemi (201-G/F-80, agency: Prossin Sports Management) to open the distance in result on third quarter.

Oranges from Prizren, who were leaded by assistant coach Kerveshi, could only resist in two first quarters. Third and fourth quarter was absolutely not justifiable for Bashkimi. (Result in quarter flow: 22:25, 38:42, 45:72, and 66:91) Just week before the second part of the season starts, Sigal Prishtina showed that they are in great form, they got great players and they are the team that will be in the play-off final.

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

LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Courtney SIMS
  VEF Riga
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 24.1

1. Sims, VEF Riga	24.1
2. Peiners, LU	19.3
3. Kalve, Valmiera	18.8
4. Krumins, Jelgava	17.1
5. Lucas, Valmiera	17.0
6. Mayo, Liepaja	16.9
7. Ozols, Jurmala	16.8
8. Young, Ventspils	15.6
9. Mediss, Turiba	15.5
10. Kravcenko, Liepaja	14.2

Rebounds Per Game

Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Jonats, Jurmala	9.5
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	9.2
3. Willard, Ventspils	8.6
4. Rozitis, Valmiera	8.2
5. Sims, VEF Riga	8.0
6. Dargais, LU	7.9
7. Mednis, Turiba	7.2
8. Kalve, Valmiera	6.3
9. Andriukaitis, Liep.	6.3
10. Butjankovs, Valmi.	6.3

Assists Per Game

Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Mayo, Liepaja	5.3
2. Lucas, Valmiera	4.6
3. Coders, Jurmala	3.9
4. Lejasmeiers, Vents.	3.9
5. Kravcenko, Liepaja	3.7
6. Millage, VEF Riga	3.3
7. Valters, VEF Riga	3.3
8. Krumins, Jelgava	3.2
9. Gray, Ventspils	3.1
10. Silavs, Jelgava	2.8

Steals Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  VEF Riga
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Millage, VEF Riga	2.9
2. Peiners, LU	2.1
3. Kanbergs, Jelgava	1.9
4. Osins, LU	1.9
5. Young, Ventspils	1.8
6. Piternieks, Turiba	1.8
7. Gray, Ventspils	1.7
8. Mayo, Liepaja	1.6
9. Cain, VEF Riga	1.5
10. Krumins, Jelgava	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Jekabs ROZITIS
  Valmiera
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Rozitis, Valmiera	1.5
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	1.2
3. Cain, VEF Riga	1.0
4. Ozols, Jurmala	0.9
5. Jonats, Jurmala	0.8
6. Kavaliauskas, VEF	0.7
7. Plivda, LU	0.7
8. Willard, Ventspils	0.6
9. Duselis, Jelgava	0.6
10. Rubenis, LU	0.6

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

1. BK VEF		21-2
2. Barons kvartals		19-2
3. Liepaja-2		19-3
4. Saldus		17-4
5. VEF Kadeti		13-8
6. BS Riga		12-10
7. RSU		12-10
8. VA		11-12
9. DSN		10-12
10. Ogres		7-14
11. Jelgava/LLU		7-15
12. Cesis		7-15
13. Livani		7-15
14. Valmiera BSS		6-17
15. Gulbene		5-18
16. Ridzene		3-19

EuroCup: VEF Riga tame Nymburk in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk - VEF Riga 80:84 (OT)

VEF Riga gained a crucial win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Nymburk on the road to climb at 3-2 record in Group I. Nymburk in the meantime were left at 2-3 record and with little chances of reaching the next stage. Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) fired 21 points to lead the visitors.
Nymburk seemed to stay in control in the first half. The Czech champions recorded a 25:23 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the gap to three points at halftime 39:36. But the third term turned things upside down for the hosts. VEF Riga ignited a 19:9 run to take a 7-point lead before the fourth frame. Nymburk showed character erasing the deficit in a nail-biting regulation finale. But VEF Riga was determined to bring victory from Czech Republic. The Latvian powerhouse knocked down 16 points in overtime and rolled to the victory at the end. Sandis Valters (193-G-78) delivered 16 points, while Gatis Jahovics (200-F-84) had 13 points in the win. Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Chester Simmons (198-G-82, college: Washington) nailed 19 points in the loss.

Nymburk: Petr Benda 22, Chester Simmons 19
VEF Riga: Dairis Bertans 21, Sandis Valters 16, Gatis Jahovics 13

LBL Standing

LBL Standings

1. Valmiera		12-9
2. Ventspils		11-0
3. Liepaja		11-8
4. VEF Riga		9-1
5. LU		9-9
6. Jelgava		9-12
7. Turiba		8-12
8. Jurmala		6-13
9. U18		0-11

LITHUANIA

EuroCup: Lokomotiv Kuban surprise Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Lokomotiv Kuban 78:82

Lokomotiv Kuban edged Lietuvos Rytas in EuroCup Group L in Vilnius tonight. The victory allowed the Russian team to catch up with their opponents at 3-2 record in the ladder. Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) posted 18 points to lead the charge.
The teams started the game aggressively. They traded baskets as Lietuvos Rytas snatched a narrow 21:20 lead. The hosts stretched the margin in the second period. They established a 42:36 halftime buffer. But Lokomotiv easily surpassed it in the third frame. The visitors unloaded 25 points in the quarter to ensure a 61:58 lead with one quarter remaining. Lokomotiv managed to stay in front throughout the tense fourth quarter and stole a valuable win at the end. Sergey Bykov (190-G-83) accounted for 15 points, while Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) finished with 13 points in the victory. Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) delivered 17 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Renaldas Seibutis (195-G-85) had 12 points in the defeat.

Lietuvos Rytas: Jonas Valanciunas 17, Renaldas Seibutis 12
Lokomotiv Kuban: Ali Traore 18, Sergey Bykov 15, Jeremiah Massey 13

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings

1. Nafta Universitetas		23-13
2. Radviliskis		22-13
3. Delikatesas		22-14
4. LKKA-Atletas		22-14
5. Mazeikiai		21-15
6. Zalgiris-Sabonio		20-15
7. Matinga-Juod.		20-16
8. Triobet		19-17
9. Perlas-MRU		18-18
10. Statyba		18-18
11. Ezerunas-Karys		18-18
12. S.Marciulionio		17-19
13. Meresta		17-19
14. Silute		14-22
15. Gargzdai		9-27
16. ABRO-Univ.		7-29

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game

Sarunas VINGELIS
  LKKA-.
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 21.8

1. Vingelis, LKKA-.	21.8
2. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	20.2
3. Rakauskas, Radvili.	18.7
4. Birgelis, Matinga-.	18.1
5. Jucikas, AB.	17.8
6. Maneikis, Meresta	17.6
7. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	17.0
8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.	16.7
9. Brown, Mazeikiai	16.7
10. Kvedaraviciu., De.	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Arturas GUDAITIS
  Gargzdai
  (208-C-93)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	10.8
2. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.	8.9
3. Urbonas, LK.	8.2
4. Mineikis, Radvilis.	8.1
5. Kalvelis, Matinga-.	7.6
6. Jucikas, AB.	7.4
7. Linkevicius, Triob.	7.4
8. Kazakauskas, Naft.	7.3
9. Pikalavicius, Deli.	7.3
10. Kumpys, Nafta U.	7.1

Assists Per Game

Matas SAPIEGA
  LK.
  (179-PG-90)
  Avg: 8.6

1. Sapiega, LK.	8.6
2. Kurauskas, AB.	5.3
3. Razutis, Silute	5.1
4. Semaska, Perla.	5.0
5. Malasauskas, LKKA.	4.6
6. Vileita, Perla.	4.5
7. Kulbis, Ezerunas.	4.4
8. Kuklierius, Mating.	4.4
9. Varanauskas, Stat.	4.4
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri.	4.3

Steals Per Game

Ignas RAZUTIS
  Silute
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Razutis, Silute	2.8
2. Vileita, Perla.	2.5
3. Brown, Mazeikiai	2.4
4. Slivka, Meresta	2.3
5. Jogela, Zalgir.	2.2
6. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	2.0
7. Vasiliauskas, Trio.	1.9
8. Birgelis, Matinga-.	1.9
9. Paliukenas, S.Marc.	1.9
10. Varanauskas, Sta.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Urbonas, LK.	2.9
2. Mockevicius, S.Mar.	1.9
3. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	1.7
4. Kaubrys, Silute	1.2
5. Jucikas, AB.	1.1
6. Krestinin, S.Marc.	1.1
7. Ramanauskas, Sil.	1.0
8. Kalvelis, Matinga-.	1.0
9. Vaitiekunas, Triob.	1.0
10. Griskenas, Meresta	1.0

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

MALTA

Standings

Powerade League Standings

1. Athleta		6-1
2. Floriana		4-3
3. Depiro		4-3
4. Siggiewi		3-4
5. Bupa		3-4
6. Loyola		1-6

Depiro hand Athleta the first loss in the season - by Eurobasket News
Depiro snapped Athelta winning streak and handed the league leaders the first loss in the season. Roderick Vella (85) came up with 18 points to lead Depiro to a 70:47 win. Depiro led from start to finish in this one. They accumulated a 33:23 halftime lead and never looked back en route to the win. Nigel Sultana (191-F-91) and Andrew Aquilina (89) contributed 11 points each for the winning team. Marko Todorovic (204-F/C-85) answered with 13 points for Athleta. Michael Naudi (193-G/F-80) finished with 11 points in the loss.
Floriana claimed the fourth win in the championship. They knocked down Loyola 77:72 on the road. Evan Fjeld (203-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Vermont) erupted for 42 points to lead the charge. Christopher Sammut (169-G-85) contributed 15 points for Floriana. Rashanti Harris (203-F) topscored with 26 points for Loyola.
Siggiewi held off visiting BUPA Luxol 91:69. Marko Matijevic (200-F-78) nailed 32 points to pace the hosts. Maeir netted 28 points for the winning team. Jeron Belin (198-F-88, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: St.Peter's) tallied 29 points for Luxol.

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

MONTENEGRO

EuroCup: Spartak Saint Petersburg pile up scalps - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP - Buducnost 70:64

Spartak earned another EuroCup win. They defeated Buducnost in Saint Petersburg to improve at 5-0 record in Group K. Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) knocked down 19 points to lead the hosts. Buducnost fell at 2-3 record after the loss.
Buducnost stunned the hosts in the opening quarter. The Montenegrin champions outgunned Spartak 24:19. But the hosts adjusted their defence in the second term. Spartak limited the visitors to just 12 points to level things up at 36. Buducnost pulled ahead in the third term again. Spartak managed just 13 points in the period allowing Buducnost to take a 54:49 advantage with ten minutes remaining. But Spartak showed their class in the final frame. The hosts went on a 21:10 run to leave Buducnost without a single chance for success. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) fired 15 points, while Loukas Mavrokefalidis (209-C-84) added 14 points for Spartak. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) answered with 11 points for Buducnost. Hasan Rizvic (212-C-84) provided 10 points in the loss.

Spartak SP: Patrick Beverley 19, Miha Zupan 15, Loukas Mavrokefalidis 14
Buducnost: Bojan Krstovic 11, Hasan Rizvic 10

Standings - 1A

1A Standings

1. Mornar Bar		14-1
2. Lovcen		11-4
3. Sutjeska		9-6
4. Teodo Tivat		9-6
5. Mogren		9-7
6. KK Podgorica		6-8
7. Ulcinj		5-7
8. Jedinstvo		4-9
9. Danilovgrad		3-12
10. ABS Primorje		3-13
Play in international cups:
1. Buducnost		-

NBA All-Star Weekend: Nikola Pekovic should replace injured Tiago Splitter - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs announced on Monday that second-year center Tiago Splitter (6'11''-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) is expected to miss the next two weeks due to injury. This typically wouldn't register on the radars of the Minnesota faithful, but Splitter was supposed to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge, formerly known as the Rookie-Sophomore Game.

Splitter will need to be replaced and, if the NBA is looking for another second-year big man, they need not look any further than Minnesota Timberwolves' rising star Nikola Pekovic (6'11''-C-86, agency: Beo Basket).

'It's a shame they didn't look at him,' Wolves coach Rick Adelman told the Pioneer Press regarding Pekovic being snubbed. 'I can understand Lin, but look around the league and see who's been doing things. Pek is a huge part of what we're doing now. As long as he keeps playing like he's playing, he'll get his due.'

The 26-year-old Montenegran has only been in the starting lineup for half of the team's games this season, but those 12 games have been a thing of beauty. The 6-foot-11 center is averaging a near double-double 16.3 points and 9.9 rebounds while making better than 60 percent of his field goal attempts.

Pekovic should have been involved in the game when the candidates were originally announced, but luckily for the NBA, it now has a chance to right their wrong due to Splitter's injury. Now he shall go ... and he shall be Pek-tacular.

Courtesy of http://minnesota.sbnation.com

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

MOROCCO

ASS Sale wins home tournament - by Eurobasket News
ASS Sale wins home tournament named 5th Annual Sale International Basketball Tournament. The African team overcame Fabi Shoes Montegranaro in the Final 86:81.
The 5th annual tournament is comprised of top level teams from Europe and Africa including Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (ITALY SerieA), JDA Dijon Bourgogne (FRANCE ProA), Groupe Sportif Petroliers Alger (Current Champion of ALGERIA), Chabab Rif Al Hoceima (MOROCCO), VFL Kirchheim Knights (GERMANY ProA) and the host team AS de Sale (Current Champions of MOROCCO).
Sale Rabat and Fabi Shoes Montegranaro scored 20 points each in the opening period and then the Italian side took 39:37 at the halftime. The hosts tied the game after three quarters and grabbed the victory due to the last stanza.
Zakaria top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Robert notched 19. Salam Bolal and Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) posted 15 apiece, while Parfait nailed 9. McNela delivered 20 points in the losing effort and Ivanov added 18. Di Bella had 15 and Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 14.

Sale Rabat: Parfait 9, Zakaria 22, Robert 19, Salam Bolal 15, Abdelhakim Zouita 15, Younes Idrissi (204-C/F-84, college: Iona) 6, Kourdou, Bougach, Amrani n.e., Ioubid
Fabi Shoes: Karl 8, Piunti 2, Perini, Fenati, Sandro Nicevic 14, Vallasciani, Di Bella 15, Mazzola 4, McNela 20, Ivanov 18, Zoroski

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

NBA

Monday's games review (11): Nowitzki's 26 help lead Mavs over Celtics, 89-73 - by Eurobasket News
Utah Jazz - San Antonio S. 102-106
Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored 23 points and Matt Bonner (6'9''-F-80, college: Florida) hit five 3-pointers and the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Utah Jazz 106-102 Monday night for their 11th consecutive victory. Richard Jefferson's 3-pointer with 6.5 seconds left sealed the victory for the Spurs, who have not lost on the road since Jan. 29 in Dallas. Al Jefferson led the Jazz (15-16) with 20 points while Paul Millsap added 16. The loss was Utah's fifth straight against the Spurs (23-9). The Jazz fell below .500 for the first time since Jan. 2. The Spurs kept the NBA's longest win streak alive despite injuries to Manu Ginobili and Tiago Splitter, both expected to miss two weeks. San Antonio trailed by as many as eight points in the first half and 10 in the third quarter, before rallying. Tim Duncan added 20 points for San Antonio. The Jazz, forced to practice Monday morning despite arriving back from Houston at 10:30 a.m., played with much more intensity than they did in a blowout loss to Houston on Sunday. Al Jefferson had a chance to tie the score at 102 with 29 seconds left but missed a 16-footer, and Richard Jefferson countered with a 3-pointer. Gary Neal, who added 14 points for San Antonio, sank a free throw for the final difference. The Spurs led 56-53 at halftime, but the Jazz opened the second half on a 13-0 run, led by Josh Howard, Paul Millsap and Devin Harris to take a 10-point lead. The Spurs fought back, with Bonner hitting his fifth 3-pointer and sinking three free throws after being fouled on his next 3-point attempt. DuJuan Blair got San Antonio within one after his steal and fast-break layup, and Neal tied it at 80 with a 28-footer jumper at the buzzer to end the third. The Jazz led by as many as eight points in the first quarter 20-12, and held a 30-26 advantage after one thanks to 56 percent shooting and a 22-8 edge on points in the paint. Bonner kept the Spurs close early, hitting three 3-pointers in the first quarter. The Jazz built their lead back to eight in the second 40-32, on back-to-back baskets by rookie Enes Kanter and C.J. Miles. But San Antonio fought back again behind Duncan, Blair and Parker, whose jumper gave the Spurs their first lead 41-40 with 5:25 left in the first half. Parker had 10 points in the second quarter as the Spurs took a 56-53 lead into the break. The Spurs were short two stars, with Ginobili suffering a strained left oblique in Saturday's 103-100 victory at the Los Angeles Clippers. An MRI on Monday confirmed the injury to Ginobili, who had played in just his fourth game since missing 22 with a broken left hand. He will remain in San Antonio for the remainder of the Spurs' road trip. Ginobili led the Spurs against the Jazz in the first meeting with 23 points on 9-of-10 shooting. Splitter, who had averaged 13 points off the bench in his previous five games, traveled with the team to Salt Lake City but also is out two weeks with a strained right calf. *Courtesy of www.kptv.com

Golde State W. - LA Clippers 104-97
Monta Ellis (6'4''-G-85) scored 32 points, Ekpe Udoh had a season-high 19 points and eight rebounds in place of ill starting center Andris Biedrins, and the Golden State Warriors topped the Los Angeles Clippers 104-97 on Monday night. Udoh had a layup and a tying put-back dunk with 4:05 remaining that started an 11-2 run to end the game for the Warriors. Golden State snapped a three-game losing streak and avenged a Christmas night blowout loss to the Clippers. Biedrins missed the game with flulike symptoms. Chris Paul had 25 points, six assists and five rebounds, and Mo Williams made his first six 3-pointers and finished with 22 points in Los Angeles' second straight loss. The Clippers had 18 turnovers and shot just 42 percent. The rematch of the Clippers' 105-86 win in the season opener looked little like the original. Williams made his first three shots from beyond the arc in the fourth quarter, giving the Clippers a one-point lead each time. The last 3 put the Clippers ahead 89-88 halfway through the final period. What looked to be shaping up as a back-and-forth finish turned out to be a runaway. Brandon Rush hit a 3-pointer to put the Warriors back in front 98-97 with 2:07 left, and Ellis followed with a running floater over Jordan. Udoh lay on the floor for a few minutes clutching his left knee after the play but returned for the final minute. He shut down Blake Griffin, who had a costly turnover, and DeAndre Jordan in the process. Griffin had 21 points and nine rebounds but was in foul trouble for most of the second half. Jordan, who the Warriors tried to sign in free agency, had five points and 11 rebounds. Golden State's boost at center kept it close all night. Udoh made his first five shots to power the Warriors with a rare inside presence. The second-year center from Baylor also grabbed several key rebounds and knocked down a jumper in the second quarter to give Golden State a 33-23 lead early in the second quarter. Udoh's strong start slowed Griffin and Jordan in the early going. His highlights also did little to quiet critics of Biedrins, the Latvian center who is often the focal point of Golden State's struggles. The Clippers did find their spring. And so did Griffin. The reigning NBA Rookie of the Year had a left-handed dunk, and spun around David Lee for a two-hand slam during a 15-2 run that pushed Los Angeles ahead 38-35 in the second quarter. The Warriors had the final highlight of the half when Udoh swished a jumper with 2.3 seconds remaining to tie it at 56 at the break. The Clippers turnover woes kept Golden State close. During the third quarter, Reggie Evans had a pass intercepted by Nate Robinson. The Warriors grabbed two offensive rebounds before Jordan threw another turnover to Lee, allowing Golden State to take a 77-74 lead into the fourth quarter. *Courtesy of www.boston.com

Oklah.City T. - N.Orleans H. 101-93
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) and Russell Westbrook scored 31 points apiece and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the New Orleans Hornets 101-93 Monday night for their 10th straight home win. One night after a historic performance featuring big scoring nights from All-Stars Durant and Westbrook and a triple-double from Serge Ibaka, the Thunder built a 26-point lead and then had to scrap it out at the end. Jarrett Jack scored 18 points to lead New Orleans, which had a surprising three-game winning streak after losing 23 of 25. The Hornets trailed 68-42 midway through the third quarter, then made a series of runs to make it interesting right down to the final minute. New Orleans was within six before Westbrook hit four free throws in the final 48 seconds. Al-Farouq Aminu powered home a right-handed slam to ignite an 8-0 run that pulled New Orleans to within 97-91 after Jack's foul line jumper with 1:04 remaining. Westbrook was fouled on a drive on Oklahoma City's next possession, and his six foul shots were all the Thunder needed to hang on down the stretch. They didn't make another basket after Durant's 3-pointer with 5:30 to play provided a 95-80 lead. It extended the Thunder's longest home winning streak since moving to Oklahoma City. The franchise had 18 winning streaks of at least 10 games while playing in Seattle. Ibaka had nine points and 13 rebounds and Kendrick Perkins added 13 points and six blocks for Oklahoma City Greivis Vasquez scored 15 and Aminu chipped in 14 for New Orleans, which will celebrate Mardi Gras this year by playing a back-to-back-to-back set entirely on the road. The Hornets wore their purple, green and gold uniforms. Oklahoma City rolled early, after having Durant score 51, Westbrook score 40 and Ibaka record his first career triple-double a night earlier against Denver. They were the first teammates in NBA history to put together a 50-point game, a 40-point game and a triple-double. The Thunder shot 55 percent while getting out to a 60-38 halftime lead, equaling the Hornets' season-worst for points allowed in a half from the team's previous meeting in Oklahoma City. New Orleans shot only 28 percent in the first half and was hovering around 30 percent when Oklahoma City's lead bulged to 26 in the third. Vasquez hit bookend 3-pointers and scored 10 points during a 15-3 run that got New Orleans to 71-57 with 4:06 left in the third. The Hornets then pulled to 84-74 with a 13-2 push that Jack finished off with a 3-pointer from the right wing with 9:47 remaining. Durant came back off the bench to hit a jumper and a 3-pointer to help stem the tide for Oklahoma City, only for New Orleans to mount another rally. Hornets coach Monty Williams stuck with a makeshift lineup featuring two players on 10-day contracts throughout the fourth quarter, and it nearly paid off. New Orleans continued to play without Eric Gordon (knee), Carl Landry (knee), Emeka Okafor (knee) and Jason Smith (concussion) while Oklahoma City's roster was also depleted after an overtime thriller a night earlier. Backups James Harden (sprained left ankle) and Nick Collison (left quad contusion) didn't play, joining starting shooting guard Thabo Sefolosha (foot), backup point guard Eric Maynor (knee) and reserve Lazar Hayward (eye) on the sidelines. Both usually third-stringers, Royal Ivey hit a 3-pointer and Cole Aldrich a hook shot during a 7-0 run for the Thunder while Durant and Westbrook were on the bench late in the first quarter. Durant had a steal that led to a right-handed slam and added a 3-pointer during a stretch of eight straight Oklahoma City points that pushed the lead above 20 for the first time in the game, with less than 3 minutes to go before halftime. *Courtesy of www.boston.com

Milwaukee B. - Orlando M. 90-93
Down two points with under a minute left against Milwaukee, the Orlando Magic found themselves in a familiar position. And for the third time in 10 days, the Magic completed a fourth-quarter comeback, beating the Bucks 93-90 on Monday night. Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key with 18.1 seconds remaining after Dwight Howard tipped a rebound to Jameer Nelson, who passed it to Anderson. The shot gave Orlando a 91-90 lead, and for Anderson it was a great ending to a frustrating game. He was hounded at every turn by Bucks forward Ersan Ilyasova and hit only two of six shots before hitting what proved to be the winner. 'I was lucky as it was a wide-open look,' he said. 'You have to give credit to the guys underneath. They fought for it and got it to me.' Howard, who led the Magic with 28 points and 16 rebounds, said he was just trying to get his hand on the ball. 'I couldn't get the rebound so me and (Bucks forward Mike) Dunleavy tipped the ball,' Howard said. 'They left him open at the wrong time. He knocked it down and won us the game.' Howard said it was very difficult for the Magic to come from behind in all three games. 'It is very tough,' Howard said. 'Both teams played hard, but we were just able to close it out. We stayed with it and stayed together and got a good win.' Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy called the win 'unbelievable.' 'For that to happen three times in 10 days and be down in the fourth, it's incredible,' he said. 'I don't remember ever having that in a season against anybody when three games sort of go so similarly.' Nelson added 15 points and Hedo Turkoglu had 13 for the Magic. Brandon Jennings led the Bucks with 22 points and Dunleavy added 18. Ilyaosova, coming off a 29-point, 25-rebound effort Sunday against New Jersey, had 11 points and 10 rebounds. It was the Bucks' sixth straight loss at home, the first time Milwaukee has lost six in a row at the Bradley Center since a seven-game slide from Feb. 5-25, 2000. Jennings said the Bucks always seem 'to be a rebound away' from beating the Magic. 'We had to get that loose ball and they got it back and Anderson got a good look,' he said. 'It's really tough. We should have won the first time. We should have beat them in Orlando and we should have won tonight.' Orlando scored the first eight points of the fourth quarter to take a 75-70 lead with 10 minutes remaining as Howard scored on a dunk. But the Bucks then went on a 14-4 run to grab a 84-79 lead when Jennings hit a jumper with 4:33 remaining. Jennings had six points during the run. J.J. Reddick hit a jumper from the top of the key to give Orlando an 87-86 lead with 1:38 remaining. Larry Sanders followed with a layup to put the Bucks ahead 88-87 with 1 minute to go. Howard was fouled and hit one of two free throws to tie it with 46 seconds left. Jennings hit a driving layup with 31.2 seconds left to put the Bucks back in front 90-88 before Ryan Anderson hit a 3-pointer with 18.1 seconds remaining to put Orlando up 91-90. Nelson was fouled with 10.8 seconds to go and hit both free throws for the final margin. *Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports

Denver N. - Minnesota T. 103-101 OT
Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) hit a tiebreaking floater in the lane with 33.7 seconds remaining in overtime and reserve Al Harrington scored a season-high 31 points as the short-handed Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 103-101 Monday night. Afflalo spun past defender Luke Ridnour and swished his shot to put Denver ahead. From there, the Nuggets closed the game out at the line and snapped a three-game skid. Afflalo finished with 20 points and rookie Kenneth Faried added 14 rebounds as the Nuggets beat the Timberwolves for the 17th time in 18 games. Kevin love had 22 points and 13 rebounds for Minnesota, which snapped its three-game winning streak. Harrington came up big all night, tying the score at 93 on a 3-pointer from the corner with 1:39 remaining in regulation. That would be the last basket before overtime as both teams couldn't find the range. Afflalo had a chance to win it at the buzzer in regulation, but his jumper - with Ridnour closely guarding him - clanged off the back of the rim. In overtime, Afflalo received another chance - and made it count. Ridnour missed a layup with 17.1 seconds remaining. The Nuggets then gained some breathing room at the free throw line, but still had to hang on in the waning seconds. Up by three points, Julyan Stone, who was filling in at point guard, turned the ball over. But with time winding down, Martell Webster elected to drive in for the layup instead of pulling up for a game-tying 3, paving the way for Denver's win. The Nuggets lost their cool and control of the game late in the third quarter. Leading 76-69, Andre Miller became irate over an offensive foul and kept barking at the officials, eventually leading to his ejection. The Timberwolves took advantage, using an 11-2 run to take the lead. Miller's ejection forced the team to rely on the little-used Stone down the stretch. The banged-up Nuggets were without Danilo Gallinari (left ankle), Nene (left calf strain) and Rudy Fernandez (lower back strain). They also lost speedy point guard Ty Lawson to a sprained left ankle in the second quarter. His status is day-to-day. Coach George Karl is hoping to keep the team afloat and not lose ground in the playoff race until he gets all his pieces back. Nene might return later this week and Gallinari could be back on the court soon after the All-Star break. The possible addition of former Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler might just help. He watched the game Monday night from a suite with team executive Masai Ujiri sitting by his side. Chandler's in town as he looks at potential landing places for when his time in China is finished. He signed with Zhejiang Guangsha of the Chinese Basketball Association during the lockout and is ineligible to return until his team signs off and FIBA, basketball's governing body, gives him clearance. Asked if he had chatted with Chandler yet, Karl said with a grin, 'Is he here?' The Timberwolves weren't at full strength, either, as center Darko Milicic didn't make the trip due to a stomach ailment. Milicic just recently returned to the lineup after missing a few games with a sprained right ankle. They also lost another center when Nikola Pekovic left with a sprained right ankle. He had seven points and seven rebounds in 15 minutes. Both teams were playing on consecutive nights. The Timberwolves were coming off a dramatic 92-91 win over Philadelphia, while the Nuggets were reeling from a 124-118 overtime loss to Oklahoma City in which Kevin Durant had a career-high 51 points. Behind the play of energetic point guard Ricky Rubio, Minnesota jumped out to a 14-point lead early in the second quarter. But Harrington came off the bench to spark the Nuggets, leading the team on a 17-2 run. Harrington scored 14 points in the first half as Denver took a 51-46 lead into the locker room. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

LA Lakers - Portland TB 103-92
A day after Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) 's impassioned tirade about the importance of keeping the Los Angeles Lakers together, they gave a performance that amplified his every point. Bryant scored 28 points, Andrew Bynum had 14 points and 19 rebounds, and the Lakers roared to a 30-point lead early in the second quarter before holding on for a 103-92 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night. Pau Gasol had 16 points and 12 rebounds in his first game since Bryant criticized the Lakers' front office for allowing Gasol to dangle amid the trade rumors that always surround this franchise. Neither star appeared distracted by the Lakers' latest off-court saga, however: Sharp from the opening tip, Los Angeles reeled off a 37-4 run after Raymond Felton's game-opening 3-pointer for Portland. 'The first half is probably the best we've played, particularly defensively,' Bryant said. 'It was a combination of us doing our job defensively and them being off.' The Lakers led by double digits for the last 40 minutes of their final home game before the All-Star break. For all their public disagreements and inconsistent play, they're still comfortably in the Western Conference playoff picture at 19-13 near the midway point of the 66-game regular season. Bryant hopes general manager Mitch Kupchak noticed. After Sunday's loss in Phoenix, Bryant said he wished Kupchak would decide whether to trade Gasol because nearly three months of uncertainty and rumors are affecting the Spanish 7-footer's play. The season began with the Lakers agreeing on a preseason deal to send Gasol to Houston in a three-team trade for Chris Paul, only to have the NBA reject it. 'I'm glad he showed his support for me, to be sure,' said Gasol, who has 10 straight double-doubles despite the distractions. 'We just need to make sure we're together on this, and we need everybody to be on the same page. We'd all like the peace of mind that we're not going to be moved, but we can't guarantee that.' Kupchak responded by issuing a statement 45 minutes before Monday's game, saying he had to explore all trade options to improve the Lakers, even if Bryant didn't like it. Bryant initially refused to rehash the rant after beating the Blazers, but eventually spoke about being a team leader. 'I can tell when (Gasol) is down, and when enough is enough,' Bryant said. 'He went through the first phase and kind of played through that and came out of that, and then he gets hit with another one. You can tell he's down, and it's a little hard to overcome. We've got two big games coming up ... and I don't want him thinking about it.' LaMarcus Aldridge and Nicolas Batum scored 18 points apiece but the Blazers couldn't quite recover from the lowest-scoring first quarter in club history. After scoring seven points in the first 12 minutes, Portland got no closer than 10 points late in its fourth loss in six games. 'We definitely started out slow and sluggish,' Aldridge said. 'We didn't have the same sense of urgency that they had, and it showed from the beginning. They dominated inside with their bigs, and they had great ball movement. I didn't play well tonight. We picked it up in the second half, but it wasn't enough.' The Lakers scored 21 consecutive points during that opening surge and went on to their 14th victory in the last 15 home games. One night after giving up a season-high 63 points in the first half of a discouraging loss at Phoenix, the Lakers yielded a season-low 30 to Portland. Former Blazers guard Steve Blake hit five 3-pointers and scored 17 points in his biggest offensive game since joining the Lakers before last season. Portland gradually trimmed the Lakers' lead to 84-74 in the fourth quarter, but Bryant and Derek Fisher returned to the lineup and hit big shots. Lakers fans briefly chanted 'World Peace! World Peace!' after Metta World Peace hit four of six free throws when Portland fouled him repeatedly in the final minutes. 'We couldn't have gotten out to a worse start than we did,' said Marcus Camby, who had 13 rebounds. 'It seemed like we couldn't buy a bucket down there. ... I think we played better in the second half, but when you play with a 22-point cushion, it's really hard to come back.' Portland went scoreless for more than five minutes after Felton's 3-pointer on its opening possession, missing six straight shots. Los Angeles missed its first six shots, but quickly established dominance down low with its two 7-footers. The Blazers' deficit got ugly while they missed 19 of 21 shots spanning the first two quarters, including another 8 minutes of scoreless play from midway through the first quarter until Batum's three-point play early in the second. Los Angeles went from a 16-7 lead to a 37-7 margin. The first quarter also was the best defensive performance of the season by the Lakers. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

New York K. - New Jersey N. 92-100
Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) stole the spotlight from Jeremy Lin, burying a career-high eight 3-pointers and scoring a season-high 38 points as visiting New Jersey spoiled the return of Carmelo Anthony. Rookie MarShon Brooks added 18 points and Kris Humphries had 14 points and 14 rebounds as the Nets halted a five-game losing streak against the Knicks and beat New York for only the second time in nine games. Lin had a team-high 21 points with nine assists and seven rebounds as the Knicks fell to 7-2 since he took over as the starting point guard. Anthony struggled in his return from a seven-game absence because of a groin injury, scoring 11 points on 4-of-11 shooting. The night, though, belonged to Williams. He scored 18 points in staking the Nets to a 50-42 halftime lead and matched that total with an 18-point eruption in the third quarter. During one scintillating stretch, Williams scored 10 points in a 47-second span to fuel a 13-1 run as New Jersey built its biggest lead at 78-59 and carried an 82-64 lead into the final 12 minutes. New York cut the deficit to eight points midway through the fourth but a three-point play by Humphries and jumper by Brooks pushed the lead back to 15. *Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

Dallas M. - Boston C. 89-73
Dirk Nowitzki (7'0''-F-78) had 26 points and moved into the top 20 on the NBA career scoring list and the Dallas Mavericks beat the short-handed and struggling Boston Celtics 89-73 Monday night. The defending champion Mavericks reached the midpoint of their regular season schedule after never trailing against Boston. Nowitzki, who also had a season-high 16 rebounds, scored all of Dallas' points in a 10-2 run midway through the second quarter that pushed the Mavericks ahead by 14. They led by double digits the rest of the way. Already without suspended Rajon Rondo, absent Kevin Garnett and injured Brandon Bass, the Celtics lost starters Jermaine O'Neal (sprained left wrist) and Chris Wilcox (right adductor strain) in the third quarter. Boston has lost four in a row, and six of seven. Nowitzki moved to No. 20 on the NBA scoring list with seven points in the first quarter. That pushed him one past Hall of Famer Robert Parish (23,334), who played 14 of his 21 NBA seasons for the Celtics. After finishing with his 26 points in 31 minutes, Nowitzki pushed his career total to 23,354 points. All of those have come the past 14 seasons, all with Dallas. Nowitzki is set to play in his 11th consecutive All-Star game this weekend. At No. 19 on the scoring list is Garnett (23,719), who missed his second consecutive game for personal reasons. Jason Terry added 16 points with four 3-pointers for Dallas, and Shawn Marion had 11 points. Jason Kidd, who began the game tied with Michael Jordan for second on the NBA career list for steals, had three against the Celtics to push his career total to 2,517. Paul Pierce led the Celtics with 20 points. Ray Allen added 15 and Avery Bradley 12. Rondo was suspended two games without pay by the NBA after throwing a ball at an official during Sunday's loss at Detroit. He received two technical fouls and ejected from a game for the first time in his professional career. Bass, a former Mavericks player who is one of Boston's top reserves, was inactive for the fifth consecutive game because of a sore left knee. Both teams were playing the second night of back-to-back games. The Mavs were coming off a 104-97 loss at New York that ended their six-game winning streak even while Nowitzki scored a season-best 34 points. Dallas was already up 44-34 at halftime against the Celtics when Wilcox picked up his fourth foul on Boston's first offensive possession of the second half. It wasn't clear when or how he got hurt, but he was out before the end of the third quarter. Kidd then hit a 3-pointer before Nowitzki's step-back 13-footer made it 49-34. The Mavs built as much as a 24-point lead, though Boston cut that to 15 before Marion's left-handed tip-in of a Lamar Odom miss at the end of the third quarter. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Houston R. - Memphis G. 97-93
Kyle Lowry (6'0''-PG-86, college: Villanova) scored 24 points, Kevin Martin added 22 and Courtney Lee hit four key free throws down the stretch as the Houston Rockets held off the Memphis Grizzlies 97-93 on Monday night. Houston led by seven before Memphis went on a 5-0 run to get within 91-89 with 27.4 seconds left. O.J. Mayo grabbed a rebound, took it down the court and finished with a layup to cap that spurt. Lee made a pair of free throws before Rudy Gay's layup with 19 seconds remaining got Memphis back within two points. Lee hit two more free throws and Quincy Pondexter's layup cut it to two again before two free throws by Lowry secured the win. Gay led the Grizzlies with 23 points and Mike Conley had 16. Luis Scola scored 10 points for Houston and Lee finished with nine - all in the fourth quarter. The Grizzlies had won their last two games by one point on tip-ins in the last few seconds, but their late-game magic ran out Monday as their four-game winning streak was snapped. The loss left Memphis without a win in Houston in 11 tries, with its last victory in the city coming in 2006. The Grizzlies didn't make a basket in the fourth quarter until Tony Allen's layup with 5:44 remaining. He followed with another one seconds later to cut Houston's lead to 86-82. The Rockets pushed the lead to 91-84 with just under 2 1/2 minutes remaining before Memphis went on the run that cut the lead to two with less than 30 seconds remaining. Houston opened the fourth quarter by scoring 10 straight points, capped by a 3-pointer from Lee, to break a tie and take an 86-76 lead with about 9 minutes to go. The Rockets led by seven early in the third before the Grizzlies used a 9-2 run to tie it at 63 with 7 minutes left in the quarter. Conley had five points in that spurt. Memphis had taken a five-point lead a few minutes later, before Houston outscored the Grizzlies 7-2 at the end of the third quarter to tie it at 76 entering the fourth. Lowry, who finished with nine assists, scored all of Houston's points in that run. The Grizzlies held Martin scoreless for the first time in six years in a 93-83 win last Tuesday in Memphis. He outdid his performance in that game when he made his first shot - a 3-pointer with just more than 10 minutes left in the first quarter, and had 18 by halftime. Houston's Goran Dragic got hit in the nose in a collision with Dante Cunningham while vying for a loose ball late in the third quarter. Dragic, called for a foul on the play, remained on the court for a bit while trainers checked him out. He left the game but returned just a few seconds later. The Rockets led 58-54 at halftime after shooting a season-high 66.7 percent in the first half. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - Washington W. 104-88
Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) scored 20 points, Steve Nash had 12 points, 11 assists and seven rebounds in three quarters, and the Phoenix Suns beat Washington 104-88 on Monday night for their 10th straight win over the Wizards. Phoenix, coming off a 102-90 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, won on consecutive nights for the first time this season. Washington hasn't beaten the Suns in six years. Channing Frye added 19 points and 11 rebounds and Michael Redd scored 14 for the Suns, who topped 100 points against Washington for the 18th time in a row, the longest active streak of its kind in the NBA. Jordan Crawford scored 20 points for the Wizards, who finished a five-game trip with three losses after winning the first two. *Courtesy of www.abc15.com

Chicago B. - Atlanta H. 90-79
Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored 23 points in his return from back pain, and the Chicago Bulls beat the struggling Atlanta Hawks 90-79 on Monday. Rose looked sharp after missing the previous five games, and the Bulls played more like championship contenders after a brutal loss to New Jersey two days earlier. They led by 18 through the first quarter and were up 55-37 at halftime, but found themselves hanging on in the end after a big push by Atlanta. The Bulls were clinging to an 85-79 lead after a late 3-pointer by Jannero Pargo when Luol Deng nailed a 3 of his own to make it a nine-point game. Rose then buried a turnaround jumper to make it 90-79 with 2:10 remaining as Chicago sent Atlanta to its seventh loss in 10 games. Pargo provided a big spark off the bench for Atlanta with a season-high 19 points. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Tuesday's games review (5): Heat streak at 7 after beating Kings 120-108 - by Eurobasket News
Indiana P. - N.Orleans H. 117-108 OT
Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) had a career-high 30 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Indiana Pacers to a 117-108 overtime win over the New Orleans Hornets on Tuesday night. Paul George (6'9''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Fresno St.) scored 20 points and Darren Collison had 18 points and eight rebounds for the Pacers, winners of three straight. Trevor Ariza scored 21 points to lead the Hornets, who have lost 10 of their last 13. New Orleans, which snapped a three-game winning streak Monday at Oklahoma City, concludes a stretch of three games in three days - all on the road - Wednesday at Cleveland. The Pacers went on a 10-0 run in overtime. Hibbert and Collison combined for eight points and West scored to take a 113-102 lead. The Hornets scored back-to-back baskets and only scored once more. George's finger roll layup tied the score at 91 with 3:09 to go in regulation and started an 8-1 run for the Pacers. Hibbert's jumper 37 seconds later put them ahead and Danny Granger's layup extended the lead to four with 1:50 remaining. Jarrett Jack made a free throw for the Hornets before Hibbert's putback extended the advantage to 97-92 with about 1 1/2 minutes remaining. Gustavo Ayon had three baskets in New Orleans' 6-2 run, cutting the deficit to 99-98 with 16.5 seconds left. Collison was fouled and went to the line. He hit 1 of 2 free throws to make it 100-98 before Ariza tied score with a jumper with 5.4 seconds left. George missed a jumper at the buzzer. New Orleans took the lead right away in the first quarter and didn't give it up until the third. The Pacers tied the score at 56 at the start of the second half when Granger hit a 3-pointer. However, the Hornets answered like they did all night, this time with a 3 by Greivis Vasquez to tie the score again. The Pacers started to pull away after the score was tied at 74. Price was fouled and went to the line to give the Pacers a two-point lead. Then the Hornets bench was called for a technical and Price returned to the line to extend the lead to three. A.J. Price hit a 3-pointer to increase the advantage to 80-74. Solomon Jones made a field goal and later scored a free throw to pull the Hornets back within three, and Jack hit a 3 to tie the score. The Pacers got within a point twice in the second quarter, but never took a lead. Each time the Pacers had a chance to tie it at the free throw line. Hibbert scored two free throws and a hook shot midway through the quarter to make it 46-45. Jack turned the ball over on the Hornets' next trip down the floor and West missed a short jumper. Then Jack was called for a technical and Granger missed the free throw. Then Belinelli hit a 3-pointer and the Hornets had a four-point lead again, and took a 56-53 advantage at halftime. *Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

Memphis G. - Philadelph.76 89-76
Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances) had 15 points and 14 rebounds, Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) scored 14 points and the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Philadelphia 76ers 89-76 on Tuesday night. O.J. Mayo added 13 points and Marreese Speights had 12 to help the Grizzlies (19-15) move a season high-tying four games above .500. Gasol, who's headed to this weekend's All-Star Game in Orlando, finished three assists shy of a triple double. Jrue Holiday scored 22 points - none in the fourth - for the Atlantic Division-leading Sixers, who shot just 37 percent while losing their fourth straight and sixth in their last eight. Rookie Lavoy Allen had 14 points for Philadelphia, and Andre Iguodala added 11 on 5-of-14 shooting. Philadelphia trailed by 20 after the first period before rallying to pull within three late in the second and was down 47-42 at halftime. Holiday scoring nine of Philadelphia's first 13 points of the third quarter to keep the Sixers close. His 3-pointer with 3:30 left made it 61-55. Reserve guard Louis Williams hit another 3-pointer with 46.2 left in the third to pull Philadelphia to 64-60, but Memphis pushed its lead back to nine on back-to-back buckets by reserves Quincy Pondexter and Hamed Haddadi. The Grizzlies allowed Philadelphia to get no closer than four points in the fourth. Tony Allen made a pair of key defensive plays down the stretch for the Grizzlies, forcing an airball by Iguodala with Memphis leading by five and later getting a steal on a Sixers fast break. Gay then put the game out of reach with a 3-pointer with 2:10 left, helping Memphis improve to 6-3 this season on the second game of back-to-backs. The Grizzlies had fallen 97-93 on the road to Houston on Monday. Playing a Sixers team that came into the game ranked first in the NBA in scoring defense, Memphis made seven of its first nine shots in building a 15-7 first-quarter lead. A Philadelphia timeout didn't slow the Grizzlies, who scored the next 12 points - including two 3-pointers by Mayo - to take a 27-7 lead. Gasol was at the center of the run, getting four points, five assists and four rebounds in the first quarter. Philadelphia trailed 30-10 after the first after shooting 4 of 20 from the field in the period. The 76ers' 10 points were the fewest Memphis has allowed in any quarter this season. The Sixers finally got into an offensive rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring Memphis 9-2 over the first 3 minutes. Holiday then made his first of three 3-pointers in the period with 5:13 left to cut Philadelphia's deficity to 10. He scored 13 straight points for the 7ters to pull them to 43-40 late in the quarter. After an abysmal first quarter, the Sixers connected on 13 of their first 17 shots in the second and trailed by five at halftime. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Cleveland C. - Detroit P. 101-100
Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina) scored 32 points and rookie Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) led Cleveland's comeback from a 17-point deficit with 17 points in the fourth quarter, leading the Cavaliers to a 101-100 win over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night. Alonzo Gee, who scored 13 points in the fourth quarter, put the Cavaliers ahead for good, 97-95, by rebounding his own miss with a dunk with 25.4 seconds left. Irving, who scored 25 points, and Gee combined for 30 of Cleveland's 35 points in the fourth quarter. Cleveland, which trailed 72-55 late in the third quarter, ended Detroit's three-game winning streak. Brandon Knight led the Pistons with 24 points while Greg Monroe scored 19 points and had 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Miami Heat - Sacramento K. 120-108
Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) had 30 points and 10 assists, Mario Chalmers (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kansas) and Chris Bosh each scored 20 points and the NBA-leading Miami Heat stretched their winning streak to seven games with a 120-108 win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. LeBron James scored 18 points, Norris Cole had 12 and Udonis Haslem added 10 for Miami (26-7), which has won each of its games during this streak by at least 12 points. Wade shot 11 for 16, the 11th straight game he's shot at least 50 percent, matching his career best in that department. He also had a run of 11 such games in his rookie season. Isaiah Thomas scored 20 of his 24 points in the third quarter for Sacramento, which dropped its sixth straight. Marcus Thornton scored 23, Tyreke Evans finished with 21 points and 10 assists, and Jason Thompson had 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Kings. Next up for Miami: The New York Knicks and Jeremy Lin come to town Thursday. The Kings were without guard John Salmons, a late scratch with a sore right hip. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he didn't expect Sacramento to come out and play like a team with one of the NBA's worst records, and he was right. Thompson had 10 points and six rebounds in the opening quarter and Evans' buzzer-beating 3-pointer from near midcourt gave Sacramento a 32-26 lead after 12 minutes. Maybe the biggest surprise of the first half was that it took Miami - a team that had led by 20 points at some time in each of its six previous outings, but never enjoyed better than an 18-point margin Tuesday - nearly a full hour after tipoff to get the highlight reels cranking. James blocked a drive by Thomas, the Heat controlled the rebound, and took off running. James got the ball to Wade, who leaped, stayed airborne long enough to draw contact from Cousins and then made an acrobatic layup while falling to the floor. The three-point play put Miami ahead 49-47 and the Heat kept the lead - such as it was - the rest of the half. Another spectacular James-to-Wade connection helped. Wade forced Donte Greene into a miss, and Francisco Garcia grabbed the rebound and tried to lay the ball in, all in the same motion. James blocked Garcia's shot - the Kings wanted goaltending - and moments later threw a 70-foot chest pass to Wade for an alley-oop layup at the other end, part of a late mini-flurry that sent Miami into halftime leading 57-53. The Heat kept the lead for the entirety of the third quarter, despite Thomas' best efforts. Thomas' 20 points came in a 10-minute span of that quarter, a 5-for-6 effort from 3-point range and 5-for-5 from the foul line, the last three there coming when he was fouled by Cole while trying about a 25-footer in the final seconds of the third and getting Sacramento to 93-88. That's about when Miami decided enough was enough. A 15-5 run, mostly from the Heat reserves, provided the long awaited breathing room. Cole had four points and an assist in the early stages, and after Mike Miller missed a 3-pointer, Haslem capped the flurry with a one-handed putback dunk that sent Wade running about 15 feet onto the court at the other end in celebration. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Portland TB - San Antonio S. 137-97
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas) had 21 points and the Portland Trail Blazers routed San Antonio 137-97 Tuesday night while the Spurs rested Tim Duncan (6'10''-C/F-76, college: Wake Forest) and Tony Parker. Jamal Crawford scored 20 points, shooting 5 for 7 on 3-pointers, and had eight assists for the Blazers, who led by as many as 48 points and sat all of their starters for most of the fourth quarter. Gerald Wallace and Nicolas Batum each had 19 points. Kawhi Leonard had 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead San Antonio, which snapped an 11-game winning streak overall and an eight-game streak on the road. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said before the game that he was resting Parker and Duncan because the Spurs were playing three games in four nights. Parker is averaging 19.5 points per game, while Duncan's averaging 19.9 points and 8.6 rebounds. 'They've been going and going and going and if you don't do it now I think you're asking for trouble,' Popovich said. Parker had started in all of the Spurs' first 32 games this season. San Antonio was also without guard Manu Ginobili for the second straight game because of a strained left oblique. Ginobili is expected to miss two weeks. The Spurs were playing their annual rodeo road trip which keeps them away from home for an extended period while the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo takes over the AT&T Center. The team was coming off a 106-102 victory at Utah on Monday night. They travel to Denver on Thursday for their final game before the All-Star break. In addition to Leonard, the Spurs also started rookie guard Corey Joseph, who had five points. Danny Green finished with 16 points. Blazers coach Nate McMillan tinkered with his starting lineup, starting Crawford at the point rather than Raymond Felton. Crawford started a game for the Blazers earlier this season but is normally a reserve. He won the NBA's Sixth Man award for the 2009-10 season while with Atlanta. Felton has struggled this season, and had just nine points in Portland's 103-92 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night. He finished with 16 points against the Spurs. Coming off the bench, Felton hit two straight 3-pointers that put the Blazers up 35-20. He added another one to put Portland up 41-23 at the end of the first quarter. It was the most points the Blazers scored in a quarter all season. Aldridge hit a layup that made it 53-32, and Jamal Crawford sank a 3-pointer that sent Portland to the break with a 66-43 lead. Batum's 3-pointer made it 88-55 and it was never a contest. Luke Babbitt made a 3-pointer that gave the Blazers a 120-75 lead with 7:11 left, but many fans had departed long before then. Wesley Matthews, who finished with 11 points, left the game early in the fourth quarter with a mild left ankle sprain. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Hornets re-sign G Donald Sloan to second 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The New Orleans Hornets announced today that they have signed guard Donald Sloan (6'3''-G-88, college: Texas A&M) to a second 10-day contract.

Sloan, a Texas A&M product, was originally signed by New Orleans on Feb. 8 and has appeared in three games, averaging 4.0 points, 2.7 assists and 1.0 rebounds in just under 14 minutes per game. Sloan previously appeared in five regular season games with the Atlanta Hawks this season before being released on Jan. 27. Originally signed by Atlanta on December 9, 2011, Sloan averaged 1.2 points, 1.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 4.0 minutes of play with the Hawks

Sloan, a 6-foot-3 guard also played five games (all starts) for the Erie Bayhawks of the NBA D-League this season, averaging 24.8 points, 8.4 assists and 5.2 rebounds in 40.9 minutes of play. Born in Shreveport, Sloan has appeared in 54 games (38 starts) in the D-League, with career averages of 12.0 points and 4.7 assists.

Sloan, who grew up in the Dallas area, was a first-team Big 12 Conference selection his senior season at Texas A&M, averaging 17.8 points.

Courtesy of www.shreveporttimes.com

Stephen Curry to defend his Skills Challenge title at NBA All-Star game - by Eurobasket News
Warriors guard Stephen Curry (6'3''-PG-88, college: Davidson) will defend his title in the NBA's Skills Challenge at the All-Star game in Orlando this weekend.

Curry, who won the Taco Bell Skills Challenge last year, will be competing against consisting of Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) of the San Antonio Spurs, John Wall (6'4''-PG-90, college: Kentucky) of the Washington Wizards, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) of the New Jersey Nets on Saturday at Amway Center.

Curry will attempt to join the Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash (2005, 2010) and Miami's Dwyane Wade (2006, 2007) as the only two-time winners in Skills Challenge history.

Curry leads the Warriors this season in assists with 6.5 per game and averages 17.2 points and 1.8 steals. He won last year's competition with a final-round time of 28.2 seconds to beat Westbrook.

Courtesy of www.mercurynews.com

Rondo suspended 2 games for throwing ball at ref - by Eurobasket News
Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) has been suspended two games without pay by the NBA for throwing a ball at an official during a game.

Stu Jackson, the NBAs executive vice president for basketball operations, announced the suspension Monday. It came one day after Rondo received two technical fouls and was ejected late in the third quarter of Bostons 96-81 loss at the Detroit Pistons.

Rondo was upset that a foul wasnt called with about 3:00 left in the quarter and tossed the ball at referee Sean Wright. He followed that with a verbal barrage directed at Wright and was ejected from a game for the first time in his professional career.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Pacers Sting Hornets in OT, 117-108 - by Daniel Gibson
INDIANAPOLIS, IND---The New Orleans Hornets have been struggling this season but they seem to get focused for bigger games. They knocked off the Knicks in the midst of Linsanity a week ago and came into Bankers Life Fieldhouse looking to upset the Pacers.

The game was tightly contest most of the night with the teams staying within six points of each other for the majority of it, but in the end the Pacers pulled away, 117-108.

Indiana was carried by their All-Star Roy Hibbert who had a number of strong dunks on his way to scoring 30 points and grabbing 13 rebounds for a double-double. Paul George,
who will be in the dunk contest this weekend, had 18 points and a couple of highlight reel throw downs.

David West and Darren Collison were taking on their former team and both played well. West scored 16 points and pulled down six rebounds while Collison chipped in 18. West hit a big jumper with just under 30 seconds left to give the Pacers a three point advantage.

The Hornets didnt go down without a fight tonight. They were led by Chris Kaman (17 points) and Trevor Ariza who scored 21 points in a losing effort.
They trailed 100-98 with 13.3 seconds left on the clock with possession and Ariza hit a jumper to tie the game coming off of a screen. Paul George had a good look on a jumper to win
it but it bounced off the rim as the buzzer sounded.

Granger hit a three-pointer to start the overtime off and Ariza came back to hit a jumper to pull within one at 103-102. Hibbert scored in the post followed by a Paul George put back dunk to make it 107-102. The Pacers pulled away to win it.

Ginobili, Splitter to miss about two weeks - by Eurobasket News
The latest medical report on injured Spurs Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) and Tiago Splitter (6'11''-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) estimates both players will miss two weeks of action, the result of injuries suffered in Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center.

Ginobili, the two-time All-Star shooting guard, was examined by Dr. David Schmidt, the team physician, after returning to San Antonio on Sunday. An MRI confirmed he suffered a left internal oblique strain.

Splitter, having a breakout season as the team's backup center, was diagnosed with a right calf strain, suffered as he pump-faked Clippers All-Star Blake Griffin off his feet in the first half.

I felt something, and when I went to shoot the free throws, I felt something strange, a little pop, Splitter said. They say it's small, not a big deal. That's the good news.

Splitter found some comfort in the fact the five-day All-Star break minimizes the number of games he will miss. He also will have to drop out of the Rising Stars Challenge.

That's a great weekend and would have been fun to be part of it, Splitter said. But I'm happy we don't have many games this week and then the break, so I won't miss so many games.

Splitter's injury will be treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and massage.

Less than 24 hours after his injury, Ginobili expressed optimism that it might not be as bad as initially feared, and the two-week estimate for his return was less than the Spurs initially expected. Nevertheless, coach Gregg Popovich empathized with the frustration being felt by the team's emotional leader.

You can imagine, as competitive as he is, that it's just killing him, Popovich said. He had just started coming back, (was) just beginning to get in shape and get a rhythm. He's pretty depressed about it. Hopefully, the team can get over it, realize he and Tiago will be out, and that's just the way it is.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

Report: Wilson Chandler to meet with Denver Nuggets today - by Eurobasket News
Free-agent Chandler Wilson (6'8''-F-87, college: De Paul) will reportedly meet with the Denver Nuggets today, according to Benjamin Hochman of the Denver Post.

Chandler has been forced to miss the majority of the 2011-12 NBA season after signing with a Chinese team during the NBA lockout. Due to international basketball rules, many players who signed contracts with a Chinese team when they thought the regular NBA season would be cancelled due to the labor fight between players and owners were forced to stay with their Chinese squads until the culmination of their season.

Chandler is currently a restricted free-agent, meaning that the Nuggets have the ability to match any contract offered to him by any other team. Last season he averaged 15.3 points and 5.6.1 rebounds per game in 72 contests. The 23-year-old was drafted 23rd overall in the 2007 NBA draft by New York.

The Nuggets, 17-15, have struggled since an injury forced star forward Danilo Gallinari to the bench. They have won just two of their past 10 games.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 29

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	29.0
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.7
3. James, Miami Heat	27.6
4. Love, Minnesota T.	25.5
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	23.4
6. Wade, Miami Heat	22.4
7. Ellis, Golde S.	22.3
8. Aldridge, Portland.	22.3
9. Williams, New J.	22.2
10. Rose, Chicago B.	22.0

Rebounds Per Game

Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.3

1. Howard, Orlando M.	15.3
2. Love, Minnesota T.	14.2
3. Bynum, LA Lakers	12.8
4. Varejao, Clevelan.	11.5
5. Griffin, LA Clipp.	11.3
6. Cousins, Sacramen.	11.2
7. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.7
8. Humphries, New J.	10.5
9. Gortat, Phoenix	10.3
10. Gasol, Memphis G.	10.1

Assists Per Game

Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 11

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.0
2. Rondo, Boston C.	9.5
3. Calderon, Toron.	8.8
4. Paul, LA Clippers	8.6
5. Rubio, Minnesot.	8.4
6. Williams, New J.	8.2
7. Parker, San A.	7.9
8. Lowry, Houston R.	7.7
9. Rose, Chicago B.	7.7
10. Wall, Washington	7.5

Steals Per Game

Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Conley, Memphis G.	2.5
2. Rubio, Minnesot.	2.4
3. Paul, LA Clippers	2.3
4. Lowry, Houston R.	2.0
5. Shumpert, New Y.	2.0
6. Allen, Memphis G.	1.9
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.9
8. Iguodala, Philadel.	1.8
9. Curry, Golde S.	1.8
10. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	3.3
2. McGee, Washingt.	2.7
3. Jordan, LA Clippers	2.6
4. Gasol, Memphis G.	2.2
5. Smith, Atlanta H.	2.1
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.1
7. Howard, Orlando M.	2.1
8. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.0
9. Dalembert, Houst.	1.9
10. Hibbert, Indiana	1.8

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Philadelph.76		20-13
2. New York K.		16-17
3. Boston C.		15-16
4. New Jersey N.		10-24
5. Toronto R.		9-23
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		26-8
2. Indiana P.		20-12
3. Cleveland C.		13-17
4. Milwaukee B.		13-19
5. Detroit P.		11-23
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		26-7
2. Orlando M.		21-12
3. Atlanta H.		19-13
4. Washington W.		7-25
5. Charlotte B.		4-27
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		25-7
2. Denver N.		18-15
3. Portland TB		18-16
4. Minnesota T.		16-17
5. Utah Jazz		15-16
Pacific Div.
1. LA Clippers		19-11
2. LA Lakers		19-13
3. Phoenix Suns		14-19
4. Golde State W.		12-17
5. Sacramento K.		10-22
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		23-10
2. Dallas M.		21-12
3. Houston R.		19-14
4. Memphis G.		19-15
5. N.Orleans H.		7-25

Greg Oden undergoes another microfracture knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
Greg Oden (7'0''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) has suffered yet another setback with his troublesome knees.

The often-injured 7-foot center was undergoing a minor procedure Monday to clear out debris in his left knee in Vail, Colo., when the surgeon determined there was additional damage and performed microfracture surgery, the Portland Trail Blazers said.

The former No.1 pick in the 2007 NBA draft has now had two microfracture surgeries on his left knee, and one on his right. He has also undergone surgery for a fractured left kneecap.

The Blazers say Oden will not play this season.

'It's hard to put into words the heartbreak for everyone involved, but especially for Greg. He's a young man who has experienced a great number of physical challenges in his playing career and today is yet another significant setback for him,' Trail Blazers President Larry Miller said in a prepared statement. 'We have a lot of empathy for Greg and his family during this difficult time.'

Oden, who has not played in an NBA game since Dec. 5, 2009, has appeared in 82 career games for the Blazers, averaging 9.4 points and 7.3 rebounds.

It was expected that he might be able to play this season, but a checkup before the start of training camp in December reportedly revealed concerns about a non-weight-bearing ligament in the left knee, further setting back his rehabilitation.

Oden was a restricted free agent heading into this season. The Blazers and Oden initially agreed to an $8.9 million qualifying offer for this year, but when the setback was announced the two sides restructured the deal, which was dropped to $1.5 million. He will become an unrestricted free agent following this season.

Oden has turned down several interview requests this season.

Shortly after the news about the latest surgery broke, Blazers forward LaMarcus Aldridge posted on Twitter: 'Praying for my bro G.O. get better!'

The Blazers were in Los Angeles on Monday night for a game against the Lakers.

'I'm sure he's saying, 'Why Me?' Sometimes in life, things like that happen, and you wonder why it's happening to you,' coach Nate McMillan said about Oden before the game. 'Some of these injuries have occurred, not only on the floor but off the floor. There's really not an explanation for why, or sometimes how they're happening. I'm sure it's been a frustrating start for him.'

Portland's acting general manager Chad Buchanan told reporters that the team knew there was the possibility of an additional microfracture surgery when he went in for the procedure. The doctor found two defects, he said.

Buchanan was asked whether the latest surgery might mean the end of Oden's career.

'Greg's still very young, in relative terms, for a professional basketball player. He's recovered from a couple of these before his last two microfracture lesions have healed fine,' Buchanan said. 'So there's no reason to think he couldn't come back as long as he shows the work ethic and desire that he's had in the past to come back. I think it's premature to speculate anything beyond that.'

The former Ohio State star was selected over Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant with the top pick in the 2007 draft. Debates raged over who should be the No. 1 selection, and the Blazers eventually went with Oden in the hope that he would lead the team along with Brandon Roy and Aldridge to an NBA championship.

But Oden's rookie season was postposed when he required microfracture surgery on his right knee that forced him to miss the 2007-08 season.

Oden's repeated knee problems have drawn comparisons to Sam Bowie, the injury-plagued big man the Blazers selected ahead of Michael Jordan in the 1984 draft. While Bowie played in 76 games his rookie season, averaging 10 points and 8.6 rebounds, he appeared in just 63 games over the next four seasons because of injuries. He missed the entire 1987-88 season. In all, he had five operations.

Courtesy of www.floridatoday.com

James, Durant named NBA Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) and Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) have been named the Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for games played through February 19.

James averaged 27.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 2.0 steals, leading Miami to a 4-0 record last week.

Durant averaged 32.0 points and 8.0 rebounds last week, helping the Thunder to a 3-1 mark. He posted a career-high 51 points on Sunday against Denver.

Other nominees were Detroit's Rodney Stuckey, Miami's Dwyane Wade, Minnesota's Kevin Love, New Orleans' Trevor Ariza, New York's Jeremy Lin, Oklahoma City's Serge Ibaka and Russell Westbrook, Orlando's Dwight Howard and San Antonio's Tony Parker.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

Kenyon Martin says George Karl needs to lay off Carmelo - by Eurobasket News
The NBA careers of Kenyon Martin (6'9''-F-77, college: Cincinnati) and Tracy McGrady are on the downside. But while the two no longer can dominate a game they still know how to rip a coach.

Martin, now with the Clippers, is angry with his former Nuggets coach, George Karl. Martin, just back from a stint in China, says Karl has continued to unfairly characterize Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) as being a selfish player while he was in Denver.

Whether Anthony can mesh with teammates figures to be a hot topic as he returns from injury for the Knicks and takes the court with Jeremy Lin.

Said Martin to SI.com:

'Man, listen, George needs to keep his mouth shut, first and foremost. Melo don't play there no more. So Karl shouldn't be commenting on Melo. If George was such a great coach, then Melo would want to stay. He wouldn't want to leave.

'If the organization was ran right, he wouldn't want to leave, so it ain't Melo. With Melo, not one time when he was there did he bring that in the locker room when all that stuff was going on. Not one day. Everybody made it a bigger deal than it had to be. That's a good kid.

'They act like this kid was a cancer, like he came in there and destroyed the locker room and made everybody hate him. No, it wasn't nothing like that man. And it bothers me for people to be talking about how he's a selfish player and he has to defend himself.'

After playing sparingly in a Saturday loss to Portland, McGrady's issue is with his current coach, Atlanta's Larry Drew.

In profanity-laced comments to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, McGrady said he was fed up with being left on the bench.

'I'm tired of this (expletive),' McGrady said. 'You can put that in the paper, I don't give a (expletive).'

The two-time NBA scoring champion and seven-time All-Star added that: 'If you don't feel I can help, come tell me that . . . He ain't told me nothing. I just want to help these guys win, man, which I know I can. But, damn, four minutes?'

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak responds to Kobe Bryant - by Eurobasket News
Sorry, Kobe. And Pau too.

The Lakers will conduct their business without input from players, as per a statement released Monday by General Manager Mitch Kupchak.

Kupchak was responding to Bryant's critical comments that Lakers management should 'come out and either trade [Gasol] or not trade him,' and his suggestion the uncertainty was negatively affecting Gasol's play.

Bryant also said the front office should reassure Gasol if the four-time All-Star wasn't going to be moved before the March 15 trade deadline.

Gasol and Bryant didn't receive any promises from Kupchak before the Lakers beat the Portland Trail Blazers, 103-92, Monday at Staples Center.

'As a former player, I understand how the days leading up to the trade deadline can be nerve-wracking for an NBA player,' Kupchak said in a statement released by the team. 'Nonetheless, as General Manager of the Lakers, I have a responsibility to ownership, our fans and the players on this team to actively pursue opportunities to improve the team for this season and seasons to come. To say publicly that we would not do this would serve no purpose and put us at a competitive disadvantage. Taking such a course of action at this time would be a disservice to ownership, the team and our many fans.'

The Lakers (19-13) didn't seem overly distracted in the first half Monday, taking an impressive 37-7 lead as Portland missed 19 of its first 22 shots. The Trail Blazers rallied in the second half, making seven of nine three-point attempts in the third quarter, but never got closer than a 10-point deficit.

Bryant had 28 points and Gasol had 16 points and 12 rebounds as the Lakers improved to 14-2 at home. They are 19-13 overall, fifth in the Western Conference.

The Lakers are resolute about not trading Gasol unless they get back a young star, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Times. There is no movement toward any deal involving Gasol, who has two years and $38.3 million left on his contract after this season.

Anything can happen over the next three weeks, but what you see is what you get at this point.

Gasol seemed resigned to the reality that he wouldn't get any reassurance from the Lakers.

'It's something that us players have to deal with, especially being in a franchise that obviously always wants to be the best,' he said.

'I'm trying not to let it affect me at all because it's something that I can't control.'

Bryant declined to add further comment after Kupchak's statement.

'I already said what I had to say,' he said. 'I'm done.'

He ignored further questioning on the issue, saying, 'Next.'

Later, however, Bryant said of Gasol: 'He needs to know that we all support him in the locker room and we've all got his back.'

Kupchak isn't one to panic, even if the Lakers' all-time leading scorer is pressing the front office to make up its mind on Gasol.

In fact, these are relatively easy days for Kupchak.

He got thrown into the middle of Shaquille O'Neal's contract squabble in 2003-04, with O'Neal publicly ridiculing him on more than one occasion. Then the Lakers got pounded by Detroit in the NBA Finals.

Kupchak also had to adjust when Rudy Tomjanovich stepped down in the middle of the 2004-05 season, leaving the Lakers without a coach and, eventually, without a playoff appearance for the second time in 29 years.

Kupchak endured the embarrassment of a 39-point loss to Boston in the last game of the 2008 NBA Finals, not to mention a humbling sweep by Dallas last season in the Western Conference semifinals.

Then the NBA nixed the trade of New Orleans guard Chris Paul to the Lakers two months ago because of 'basketball reasons.'

Gasol and Bryant want answers from management? Kupchak has had off-seasons more difficult than this.

Who could forget the summer of 2007, when Bryant demanded to be traded after three seasons in which the Lakers failed to do much of anything as a franchise?

Bryant's still here. So are the Lakers, their roster intact for now.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

NBA All-Star Weekend: Nikola Pekovic should replace injured Tiago Splitter - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs announced on Monday that second-year center Tiago Splitter (6'11''-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) is expected to miss the next two weeks due to injury. This typically wouldn't register on the radars of the Minnesota faithful, but Splitter was supposed to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge, formerly known as the Rookie-Sophomore Game.

Splitter will need to be replaced and, if the NBA is looking for another second-year big man, they need not look any further than Minnesota Timberwolves' rising star Nikola Pekovic (6'11''-C-86, agency: Beo Basket).

'It's a shame they didn't look at him,' Wolves coach Rick Adelman told the Pioneer Press regarding Pekovic being snubbed. 'I can understand Lin, but look around the league and see who's been doing things. Pek is a huge part of what we're doing now. As long as he keeps playing like he's playing, he'll get his due.'

The 26-year-old Montenegran has only been in the starting lineup for half of the team's games this season, but those 12 games have been a thing of beauty. The 6-foot-11 center is averaging a near double-double 16.3 points and 9.9 rebounds while making better than 60 percent of his field goal attempts.

Pekovic should have been involved in the game when the candidates were originally announced, but luckily for the NBA, it now has a chance to right their wrong due to Splitter's injury. Now he shall go ... and he shall be Pek-tacular.

Courtesy of http://minnesota.sbnation.com

Rockets recall Marcus Morris from Rio Grande Valley - by Eurobasket News
Rookie forward Marcus Morris (6'8''-F-89, college: Kansas) is happy the Houston Rockets have recalled him from their NBA D-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

'It means a lot, happy to be back, happy to be back with my team and just ready to move forward,' Morris said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.

'It's real special. I'm just ready to get to work.'

Morris believes he can help the Rockets.

'Versatility. Just one of those guys that can play different positions and guard different positions,' Morris said.

Morris, the 14th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, averaged 22.8 points and 9.1 rebounds in the ten full games he has played for the Vipers.

'I think it helped me get into better shape, playing more,' Morris said.

Courtesy of www.myfoxhouston.com

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

NBLCANADA

Latest games: Lightning secure home court for NBLC playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Moncton M. - London L. 84-119
The London Lightning clinched first place in the inaugural National Basketball League of Canada season Tuesday. The Lightning guaranteed themselves home-court advantage throughout the playoffs with a 119-84 win over the Miracles in Moncton. The Lightning lost the first game of their Maritime swing to the Halifax Rainmen on Sunday. It was their worst defeat of the season. In that game, the Lightning picked up four technical fouls, two to coach Micheal Ray Richardson -- earning him an ejection. But it was a much more composed Lightning team Tuesday. The last-place Miracles hung tough, taking a two-point lead at the half. But the third quarter belonged to the Lightning, who went on a three-point shooting binge led by guard DeAnthony Bowden. The Lightning outscored the Miracles 39-18 in the quarter. 'We finally played a good half,' Richardson said. 'I changed the offence a little and put in a passing offence. I wanted everyone to handle the ball to get into the game and we had 27 assists. We haven't had 27 assists all year.' The Lightning had six players in double figures. Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, college: Ill.-Springfield) led with 21, while Rodney Buford (6'5''-G-77, college: Creighton) had 19 and 12 rebounds. Gabe Freeman hit for 16, with Bowden scoring 14, going 4-of-6 from the three-point arc. Shamari Spears also had 14 for the Lightning, with Brandon Dean adding 13. The Lightning were without forward Tim Ellis, who sat out ill. 'Rodney was great, Brandon Dean was terrific. He even shot the ball well, but he played great defence,' Richardson said. The Lightning went 14-of-24 from three-point range. 'Now we have home court for all of the playoffs. We take care of business at home and we win a championship,' Richardson said. 'Not that it matters where we play.' Richardson doesn't plan on giving anyone any time off. 'Maybe we'll rest a couple of guys the last two games of the season, but I really want to win out,' Richardson said. 'Our job is to win basketball games.' London goes into Quebec to play the second-place Kebs on Saturday. 'I would really like to send them a message,' Richardson said. Even though the Oshawa Power are making a late run at the fourth and final playoff spot, short of a collapse it looks as if the Saint John Mill Rats will finish fourth and face the Lightning. 'It doesn't matter who it is,' Richardson said. If it is the Mill Rats, the best-of-three semifinal will start in Saint John. The Lightning will then play at home on March 9 and, if necessary, March 11. The final is a best-of-five, with the first two games at the home of the surviving top seed. *Courtesy of www.lfpress.com

St.John M.R. - Halifax R. 121-99
The Saint John Mill Rats, presented by Rogers, set a team record for margin of victory by beating the Halifax Rainmen on Monday evening at Harbour Station with a final score of 121-99, in front of 2,004 fans. The Mill Rats bolted out of the gate strong opening with a three pointer from Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts), and with good defense, held a 15-2 lead with 6 minutes left in the first quarter. Antonio Burks (6'6''-F-82, college: SF Austin) ended the quarter for the team locking down 5 points, one three and a layup. The Mill Rats lead the charge 26-13 over the Rainmen. The start of the second quarter, the Mill Rats pulled ahead, claiming a 20 point lead over the Rainmen. Halifax battled hard through the Mill Rats' defense and were able to narrow the double digit gap, closing the half, 51-40. In the third quarter, things started to heat up for the Mill Rats on the shooting end. Stanley Ocitti (6'8''-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) came alive while Darren Duncan racked up assists. With just over 5 minutes left, the head coach for the Rainmen, Joseph Claros Canals received a double technical. This put Darren Duncan on the line who contributed to the team's 30 point lead, 76-46, with 5:12 remaining in the game. The Mill Rats closed the third quarter 92-58, outscoring the Rainmen 41-18 in the third. The Mill Rats kept their lead for the remainder of the game, narrowing out the Rainmen on defensive rebounds, 42-33. With 5:07 left in the game, Eric Crookshank from the Rainmen was ejected. The Mill Rats were successful in defeating the team that holds the third place in the league en route to playoffs. Leading scorers for the Mill Rats were Stanley Ocitti with an impressive 20 points and 10 rebounds, Anthony Anderson with 19 points and Darren Duncan 18 points and 13 assists. All of his points and 12 of his assists were made in the second half of the game. Game high scorer was Taliek Brown (6'1''-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Connecticut) from the Halifax Rainmen, netting 22 points and 6 assists, Tyrone Levett with 14. Saint John rises to 15-17 on the season while the Rainmen fall to 18-12. This win was a necessary one for the Mill Rats coming off their two losses on the road last week against Oshawa Power and the London Lightning. Catch the Mill Rats in action on Thursday night as they host the Oshawa Power at 7pm. Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Halifax R. - London L. 104-78
The sixth time was the charm for the Halifax Rainmen. After five failed attempts to bring down the powerful London Lightning, the Rainmen finally vanquished the first-place club on Sunday at the Metro Centre with a convincing 104-78 victory before a crowd of 4,562 at the Metro Centre. It was a dominating display, tying for the third-largest margin of victory in the National Basketball League of Canadas brief history. Thats huge we proved we could actually beat them, said forward Lawrence Wright, amid a raucous on-court celebration after the game. Going into playoffs, we know were probably going to play them (again), so getting this win, it does something to them mentally that helps us. The Rainmen allowed the opening basket 16 seconds in but proceeded to take the lead a minute later and didnt look back, storming out to a 20-4 lead. London, which won the first five meetings by an average of 11.4 points, didnt come close to mounting a comeback, losing every quarter and trailing by as many as 33 in the second half. They were assessed four technical fouls, with head coach Michael Ray Richardson taking two and earning an ejection with 2:12 left in the third quarter. The normally outspoken Richardson gave a sarcastic wave to the officials as he left the floor but declined a request for a post-game interview. We had them frustrated, said Wright, who torched the Lightning for 27 points. We just totally dominated from tip-off. The defensive effort ranks as the best in the Rainmens five-year history, bettering the 79 they allowed to the Saint John Mill Rats on March 31, 2011, in the Premier Basketball League. We came out wanting to play really hard on defence and we did that throughout the whole game, Wright said. Thats why we won so convincingly. It was all about defence. Taliek Brown knocked down 15 points, Tyrone Levett (6'5''-F-80, college: Alabama St.) and Justin Johnson (6'6''-G-86, college: Iowa) hit for 14 points apiece, and Joey Haywood (6'1''-G-84) added 10. The Rainmen (18-11) visit Saint John on Monday at 7 p.m. Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

Moncton M. - Oshawa P. 100-101
Durham's team the Oshawa Power continued their quest for the fourth and final playoff spot holding on for a thrilling 101-100 road victory over the Moncton Miracles Sunday afternoon. The Power held an 82-67 lead heading into the fourth and final quarter and looked to be in full control but the Miracles won the fourth quarter 33-19, and came a layup short from putting an almost certain end to the Power s postseason dreams. League's leading scorer Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.) stayed true to his season average scoring 19 points. Number one overall draft pick Morgan Lewis (6'4''-F-87, college: Findlay, OH) hit the go ahead bucket with under ten seconds remaining in the game to give him 15 points. Canadian Tut Ruach (6'2''-G-85) came through with one of his strongest performances of the year posting 18 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds. 'On offence we didn't panic when we were down one. We ran our set and Morgan made a shot I've seen him make a thousand times in practice,' said Ruach. The Miracles got an all world performance from former Oshawa Power standout Akeem Wright (6'7''-F/G-84, college: Kansas St.) who netted a game-high 35 points in the losing effort. Trayvon Lathan added a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds. 'The last play on defence we knew Akeem wanted to shoot so we sent a double team,' added Ruach. 'We knew we might be vulnerable on the glass but with the clock on our side it worked out.' The Power have been playing their best basketball of the season having won 6-of-7 and 7 of their last 10 basketball games. They've limited turnovers and played much better defence under Head Coach Robert Brickey's guidance. The next two Power games are against the Saint John Mill Rats as both teams face each other for the biggest games of the season. The first is Thursday February 23 as the Power continue their 4 game east coast road trip to close out the season. Game time is 6:00 p.m. e.s.t. Catch it live at www.powerbasketball.ca Power Glance Record: 14-19 Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Storm 114 - Kebs 123
A record crowd turned out for the Summerside Storms Islander Day matchup against the Quebec Kebs. The announced crowd of 4,017 fans were treated to a fast-paced, high scoring contest that featured the home team falling just short 123-114. Down 31-25 after the opening quarter, the Storm fought back to lead 57-52 at halftime. Quebec outscored the Storm 34-24 in the third quarter to take an 86-81 lead after three quarters. Summerside mounted a rally, but just couldnt overcome the hot-shooting Kebs. Storm head coach Joe Salerno said three-point shots played a role in the games outcome. They go 10-of-19 from three, we go five-of-27 and thats a big difference, he said. We didnt shoot the ball that well, and we ran into a very good team who played well today (Monday). Salerno said every time the Storm got within striking distance, the Kebs answered back. It just seemed like every time we were in a striking position theyd hit big shot after big shot, Salerno said. Its tough. It can get frustrating. I thought there were some calls that didnt go our way late in that game tonight. Its a tough loss to take. Quebec's Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) led all scorers with 32 points while James Jackson (6'9''-F-81, college: E.Michigan) contributed 30. Louie McCroskey (6'5''-G-85, college: Marist) was the Storms leading scorer with 23. Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati), Troy Jackson (6'4''-F-84, college: Alcorn St.) and Julian Allen all had 18 points. Salerno said the Storm didnt get as many chances at the free-throw line as they normally do, and that was because of shot selection. We settled for a lot of jumpers, he said. When youre not shooting the ball well, you need to get stuff going to the rim. Kebs assistant coach Dennis Truax said he wasnt surprised at how tough the Storm played. We had a little lull and theyre a very good team, he said. Summerside is a lot better than what their record indicates. The guys can shoot the ball. Theyre all good players. We made some adjustments at halftime, and made a nice little run and were able to keep doing what we were doing. Truax said the Kebs pounded the ball inside, which led to points and rebounds. Courtesy of www.journalpioneer.com

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings

1. London L.		26-7
2. Quebec K.		21-11
3. Halifax R.		18-12
4. St.John M.R.		15-17
5. Oshawa P.		14-19
6. Summerside S.		12-22
7. Moncton M.		8-26

Mill Rats set team record for margin of victory by beating Halifax Rainmen 121-99 - by Eurobasket News
The Saint John Mill Rats, presented by Rogers, set a team record for margin of victory by beating the Halifax Rainmen on Monday evening at Harbour Station with a final score of 121-99, in front of 2,004 fans.

The Mill Rats bolted out of the gate strong opening with a three pointer from Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts), and with good defense, held a 15-2 lead with 6 minutes left in the first quarter. Antonio Burks (6'6''-F-82, college: SF Austin) ended the quarter for the team locking down 5 points, one three and a layup. The Mill Rats lead the charge 26-13 over the Rainmen.

The start of the second quarter, the Mill Rats pulled ahead, claiming a 20 point lead over the Rainmen. Halifax battled hard through the Mill Rats' defense and were able to narrow the double digit gap, closing the half, 51-40.

In the third quarter, things started to heat up for the Mill Rats on the shooting end. Stanley Ocitti (6'8''-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) came alive while Darren Duncan racked up assists. With just over 5 minutes left, the head coach for the Rainmen, Joseph Claros Canals received a double technical. This put Darren Duncan on the line who contributed to the team's 30 point lead, 76-46, with 5:12 remaining in the game. The Mill Rats closed the third quarter 92-58, outscoring the Rainmen 41-18 in the third.

The Mill Rats kept their lead for the remainder of the game, narrowing out the Rainmen on defensive rebounds, 42-33. With 5:07 left in the game, Eric Crookshank from the Rainmen was ejected. The Mill Rats were successful in defeating the team that holds the third place in the league en route to playoffs.

Leading scorers for the Mill Rats were Stanley Ocitti with an impressive 20 points and 10 rebounds, Anthony Anderson with 19 points and Darren Duncan 18 points and 13 assists. All of his points and 12 of his assists were made in the second half of the game.

Game high scorer was Taliek Brown (6'1''-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Connecticut) from the Halifax Rainmen, netting 22 points and 6 assists, Tyrone Levett with 14.

Saint John rises to 15-17 on the season while the Rainmen fall to 18-12.

This win was a necessary one for the Mill Rats coming off their two losses on the road last week against Oshawa Power and the London Lightning.

Catch the Mill Rats in action on Thursday night as they host the Oshawa Power at 7pm.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Record crowd watches Kebs beat Storm - by Eurobasket News
A record crowd turned out for the Summerside Storms Islander Day matchup against the Quebec Kebs.

The announced crowd of 4,017 fans were treated to a fast-paced, high scoring contest that featured the home team falling just short 123-114.

Down 31-25 after the opening quarter, the Storm fought back to lead 57-52 at halftime.

Quebec outscored the Storm 34-24 in the third quarter to take an 86-81 lead after three quarters. Summerside mounted a rally, but just couldnt overcome the hot-shooting Kebs.

Storm head coach Joe Salerno said three-point shots played a role in the games outcome.

They go 10-of-19 from three, we go five-of-27 and thats a big difference, he said. We didnt shoot the ball that well, and we ran into a very good team who played well today (Monday).

Salerno said every time the Storm got within striking distance, the Kebs answered back.

It just seemed like every time we were in a striking position theyd hit big shot after big shot, Salerno said. Its tough. It can get frustrating.

I thought there were some calls that didnt go our way late in that game tonight. Its a tough loss to take.

Quebec's Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) led all scorers with 32 points while James Jackson (6'9''-F-81, college: E.Michigan) contributed 30.

Louie McCroskey (6'5''-G-85, college: Marist) was the Storms leading scorer with 23. Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati), Troy Jackson (6'4''-F-84, college: Alcorn St.) and Julian Allen all had 18 points.

Salerno said the Storm didnt get as many chances at the free-throw line as they normally do, and that was because of shot selection.

We settled for a lot of jumpers, he said. When youre not shooting the ball well, you need to get stuff going to the rim.

Kebs assistant coach Dennis Truax said he wasnt surprised at how tough the Storm played.

We had a little lull and theyre a very good team, he said. Summerside is a lot better than what their record indicates.

The guys can shoot the ball. Theyre all good players. We made some adjustments at halftime, and made a nice little run and were able to keep doing what we were doing.

Truax said the Kebs pounded the ball inside, which led to points and rebounds.

Courtesy of www.journalpioneer.com

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

NCAA1

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Kendrick PERRY
  Youngsto.
  (182-G-92)
  Avg: 16.4

1. Perry, Youngsto.	16.4
2. McCallum, Detroit	15.2
3. Broekhoff, Valpa.	15.1
4. Averkamp, Loyol.	14.7
5. Mays, Wright St.	14.4
6. van Wijk, Valparai.	14.3
7. Brown, Wisc.-Gr.	13.4
8. Simon, Detroit	13.4
9. Allen, Youngsto.	13.1
10. Harmon, Clevelan.	12.8

Rebounds Per Game

Ryan BROEKHOFF
  Valpa.
  (200-G/F-90)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Broekhoff, Valpa.	8.4
2. Brown, Wisc.-Gr.	7.8
3. Averkamp, Loyol.	7.2
4. Cougill, Wisc.-.	7.2
5. Eargle, Youngsto.	7.2
6. Holman, Detroit	7.1
7. Williams, Ill.-Chi.	6.4
8. Jones, Butler	6.4
9. Grady, Clevelan.	6.2
10. Gibler, Loyola, IL	5.9

Assists Per Game

Kaylon WILLIAMS
  Wisc.-.
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Williams, Wisc.-.	6.4
2. Nored, Butler	5.2
3. Perry, Youngsto.	3.9
4. McCallum, Detroit	3.9
5. Brito, Loyola, IL	3.5
6. Buggs, Valparaiso	3.3
7. Talton, Ill.-Chica.	3.1
8. Montgomery, Clevel.	3.1
9. Sykes, Wisc.-Gr.	3.0
10. Allen, Youngsto.	3.0

Steals Per Game

D''Aundray BROWN
  Clevelan.
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Brown, Clevelan.	2.6
2. Perry, Youngsto.	2.4
3. Nored, Butler	1.9
4. Barnes, Ill.-Chica.	1.5
5. Mays, Wright St.	1.5
6. Williams, Wisc.-.	1.5
7. McCallum, Detroit	1.4
8. Broekhoff, Valpa.	1.3
9. Harmon, Clevelan.	1.3
10. Anderson, Detroit	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Damian EARGLE
  Youngsto.
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Eargle, Youngsto.	3.9
2. Brown, Wisc.-Gr.	3.0
3. Lowe, Detroit	2.3
4. Williams, Ill.-Chi.	1.4
5. Holman, Detroit	1.4
6. Grady, Clevelan.	1.4
7. Allen, Wisc.-Mi.	1.2
8. Woods, Butler	1.1
9. Averkamp, Loyol.	1.0
10. Kenney, Valparaiso	0.9

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings

1. Kentucky		9-0 (23-1)
2. Syracuse		10-1 (22-1)
3. Missouri		10-2 (23-2)
4. Kansas		10-2 (20-5)
5. Duke		9-1 (20-2)
6. Michigan St.		9-1 (21-3)
7. N.Carolina		9-2 (20-2)
8. Ohio St.		9-4 (21-5)
9. Georgetown		8-4 (20-4)
10. Marquette		8-3 (18-5)
11. Michigan		7-3 (18-6)
12. Florida		9-2 (21-5)
13. Baylor		8-4 (21-4)
14. Murray St.		13-1 (26-1)
15. Florida St.		9-2 (18-7)
16. Wisconsin		6-5 (17-7)
17. Louisville		9-3 (20-6)
18. N.Mexico		6-2 (20-4)
19. Wichita St.		14-2 (24-4)
20. Notre Dame		11-2 (19-7)
21. UNLV		6-3 (22-5)
22. Temple		9-2 (20-5)
23. Indiana		8-5 (20-5)
24. San Diego St.		5-4 (19-6)
25. Virginia		6-4 (18-5)

Acy double-double powers No.13 Baylor over Texas 77-72 - by Eurobasket News
If the longest NCAA tournament streak in Texas history comes to an end next month, it won't be because anything noteworthy happened at the Erwin Center on Monday night.

Instead, it'll be because in the context of the Longhorns' season, what happened at the Erwin Center on Monday night wasn't the slightest bit unusual.

Presented yet another opportunity to secure a season-saving victory, UT once again failed to seize it. This time, it was No. 9 Baylor who outworked, outperformed and outthought the Longhorns at the end of a close game, rallying from a 12-point second-half deficit to beat UT 77-72.

'We had to come in here and dig deep,' Baylor forward Quincy Acy (6'7''-F-90) said.

And now the team that Acy dominated down the stretch has to hope the hole it's been digging all season hasn't become too cavernous to escape. The Longhorns (17-11, 7-8 in the Big 12) have three regular-season games remaining before the conference tournament, and even in a year when many unimpressive teams are still in the running for an at-large bid, things at UT are starting to feel desperate.

Guard Myck Kabongo (6'1''-G-93) called Monday's loss, the Longhorns' eighth in nine games this season decided by six points or fewer, 'devastating.'

'It shows we're right there,' Kabongo said. 'But we can't finish the job.'

As much as the outcome was about UT's failures, it also stood as a testament to the resolve of Baylor (23-5, 10-5), which had lost three of its previous four games and looked lost for much of the first half.

But after UT took a 38-26 lead on the first possession after halftime, it all changed. The Bears scrapped their zone defense for an aggressive man-to-man, Brady Heslip broke free for three open 3-pointers, and Acy and Pierre Jackson (5'10''-PG-91) got rolling on what turned out to be a career night for both.

Jackson scored 18 of his career-best 25 points in the second half, and Acy tormented the Longhorns inside, finishing with 22 points and 16 rebounds. On back-to-back possessions with just under five minutes left, Acy scored twice while being fouled, the first time on a back-handed flip off the glass and the second on a powerful left-handed finish.

'He was a man among boys,' UT coach Rick Barnes said of Acy.

Somehow, though, Barnes' boys still had a chance in the final minute, as Jonathan Holmes' 3-pointer from the corner pulled the Longhorns within one point with 51 seconds left. But Kabongo committed an ill-advised foul on Baylor's next possession, leading to a pair of Jackson free throws.

Down by three with less than 15 seconds left, J'Covan Brown (6'1''-G-90),, who led UT with 18 points, then forced a cross-court pass that was intercepted by A.J. Walton to seal Baylor's victory.

'I feel like every night I keep letting these guys down,' Brown said. 'I'm trying, but right now I can't figure it out.'

For the Longhorns, the answer had better come quickly.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Kentucky stays No.1 in AP Top 25 - by Eurobasket News
Kentucky and Syracuse are 1-2 in The Associated Press Top 25 for a fourth straight week.

The Wildcats, who have been No. 1 for five consecutive weeks and seven overall, were again a runaway choice Monday with 63 first-place votes from the 65-member national media panel. Syracuse, which spent six weeks at No. 1, got the other first-place votes.

Missouri, Kansas and Duke stayed third through fifth and are followed by Michigan State, North Carolina, Ohio State, Georgetown and Marquette.

No. 18 New Mexico, winners of seven straight, and No. 22 Temple, which has won 10 in a row, are in the rankings for the first time this season. They replace West Coast Conference members Saint Mary's and Gonzaga.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tide reinstates Green; Mitchell done for year - by Eurobasket News
The strange and mostly unexplained absence of Alabama's best players may finally be coming to a close.

Senior forward Jamychal Green (6'8''-F-90) has been reinstated to return to practice, the school announced Monday afternoon.

Earlier in the day Alabama coach Anthony Grant said he did not anticipate Green playing against Arkansas at 6 p.m. Thursday.

It remains unclear whether or not the return to practice indicates that things may have changed.

Tony Mitchell (6'6''-F) will not play - he is suspended for the rest of the season. He has missed the last four games after being suspended for conduct detrimental to the team.

Green and guards Trevor Releford and Andrew Steele were sent home from LSU two weeks ago for violating team rules.

Details of what happened with any of the four players have never been revealed, but Green has sat out the last three games.

Releford and Steele both were reinstated after the LSU game.

Without Green, a preseason All-SEC selection, the Crimson Tide lost two in a row before beating Tennessee at home Saturday.

He's ninth in the SEC in scoring at 14.1 points a game and rebounding with 7.2 boards.

Courteysy of www.clarionledger.com

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

PBL

Standings

PBL Standings

Central Division
1. Cent.Illinois D.		11-0
2. Chicago M.		6-4
3. Sauk Valley P.		6-5
4. St. Louis P.		2-6
5. Indiana D.		2-9
Eastern Division
1. Rochester R.		11-1
2. Scranton/W-B		4-5
3. Dayton A.S.		4-6
4. Lake Michigan		0-7

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Desmond HOLLOWAY
  Sauk V.
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 27.1

1. Holloway, Sauk V.	27.1
2. Collins, Z*Char.	23.3
3. Simpson, Scranton.	21.3
4. Valencia, Lake M.	21.1
5. Favors, Sauk V.	21.1
6. Armstead, Z*Char.	20.5
7. Commons, Scranton.	20.3
8. Goldsberry, Z*Char.	19.8
9. Anderson, Chica.	19.1
10. Radcliff, Indiana	19.1

Rebounds Per Game

Billy PETTIFORD
  India.
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Pettiford, India.	12.2
2. Robinson, Scranton.	12.0
3. Hill, Chicago M.	10.9
4. Valencia, Lake M.	10.0
5. Fay, Sauk Valley P.	9.8
6. Harris, Sauk V.	9.0
7. Holloway, Sauk V.	8.4
8. Davis, Rochester R.	8.3
9. Hill, St. Louis P.	7.6
10. Alexander, Lake M.	7.5

Assists Per Game

Vince GOLDSBERRY
  Z*Char.
  (182-PG-89)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Goldsberry, Z*Char.	10.8
2. Favors, Sauk V.	8.2
3. Simpson, Scranton.	7.8
4. Ruffin, Cent.I.	5.3
5. Petty, Cent.Ill.	5.0
6. Smith, Dayton A.S.	5.0
7. Anderson, Chica.	4.4
8. Crouch, Rocheste.	4.3
9. Snow, Lake M.	4.0
10. Council, Rocheste.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Marcel ANDERSON
  Chica.
  (175-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Anderson, Chica.	2.2
2. Holloway, Sauk V.	2.0
3. Snow, Lake M.	1.8
4. Smith, Dayton A.S.	1.6
5. Collins, Z*Char.	1.5
6. Polk, St. Louis P.	1.4
7. Griffin, Scranton.	1.4
8. Radcliff, Indiana	1.3
9. Petty, Cent.Ill.	1.3
10. Livas, Chicago M.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Shagari ALLEYNE
  Lake M.
  (221-C-84)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Alleyne, Lake M.	3.6
2. Commons, Scranton.	2.4
3. Slack, Cent.Ill.	2.1
4. Webster, Rocheste.	1.6
5. Robinson, Scranton.	1.1
6. Pettiford, India.	1.0
7. Robbins, Scranton.	0.9
8. Peterson, Cent.I.	0.9
9. Davis, Rochester R.	0.8
10. Holloway, Sauk V.	0.7

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

POLAND

Qarraan Calhoun and Slask Wroclaw split ways - by Eurobasket News
Qarraan Calhoun (203-F-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Houston) is no longer the player of Slask Wroclaw. The forward and the team have reached an agreement on terms of contract termination. Qarraan Calhoun joined Slask at the start of the season. He tallied 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game in PLK. The forward participated at 2012 PLK All-Star Game. Calhoun became the Slam Dunk Contest Winner. Last season Qarraan Calhoun spent in Romania. The forward played for CSU Ploiesti. His stats read 12.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in Romanian League. In EuroChallenge Qualifying Round Qarraan Calhoun delivered 2.0 points and 3.0 boards per appearance.

Tomas Pacesas resigns as Asseco Prokom Gdynia head coach! - by Eurobasket
Tomas Pacesas resigned as head coach of Asseco Prokom Gdynia due to team's financial problems just before their debut in Polish PLK in 2011/2012.
The Lithuanian coach joined the club in 2003 as a player. During the next four seasons he was a starting five point guard. He helped Asseco to win 4 straight Championship titles. In 2007 Tomas became an assistant coach, next year promoted to head coach. In 2009/2010 season he led Asseco into Euroleague Quarterfinals. That was the biggest achievement in a history of club basketball in Poland.

After five months break Polish Champs are coming back to domestic league action. Current assistant coach Andrzej Adamek will take over the team till the club decides who will be the next head coach.

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

PORTUGAL

Standings - Proliga

Proliga Standings

1. Alges		14-1
2. Illiabum		11-4
3. Angra		9-6
4. Fisica		8-7
5. Galitos-Tley		8-7
6. Electrico FC		8-7
7. Sangalhos		8-7
8. Oliveirense		7-8
9. Maia Basket		7-8
10. Guifoes		5-10
11. Gaeirense		3-12
12. Povoa		2-13

Proliga Round 15 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
4th placed Galitos-Tley (8-7) fell to seventh ranked Electrico FC (8-7) in overtime by four points 72-76 on Sunday night. It was a good game for Tiago Pinto (183-G-88) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 6 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Galitos-Tley's coach Francisco Edgard rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Electrico FC moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Galitos-Tley. Galitos-Tley lost fourth consecutive game. Electrico FC will face Maia Basket (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Galitos-Tley will play against Povoa (#12).

In the last game of round 15 bottom-ranked Povoa was beaten by Sangalhos on the road 69-65. Fisica lost to Maia Basket on its own court 64-71. Angra unfortunately lost to Oliveirense in Oliveira 82-86. Alges rolled over Guifoes at home 93-62. Illiabum crushed Gaeirense on the opponent's court 80-51.
The most impressive performance of 15th round was 27 points and 6 rebounds by Flavio Gomes of Angra.

Sangalhos - Povoa 69-65

No shocking result in a game when seventh ranked Sangalhos (8-7) beat at home bottom-ranked Povoa (2-13) 69-65 on Sunday. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 69-65. Sangalhos looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a good game for forward Nuno Bizarro (192-80) who led his team to a victory with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Swingman Joao Carmo (183-85) contributed with 17 points and 6 assists for the winners. Four Sangalhos players scored in double figures. American forward Kevin Jolley (197-82, college: Quinnipiac) answered with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 13 rebounds and forward Fabio Fernandes (201-86) added 17 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Povoa. Sangalhos moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Povoa lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Sangalhos will face Gaeirense (#11) in Gaeiras in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Povoa will play on the road against Galitos-Tley in Barreiro.
Top scorers:
Povoa: K.Jolley 25+13reb+2ast, F.Fernandes 17+8reb+1ast, R.Moreira 9+4reb+1ast, A.Silva 6, V.Teixeira 6+2reb+2ast, L.Pires 2+2reb
Sangalhos: N.Bizarro 21+6reb+1ast, J.Carmo 17+3reb+6ast, A.Duarte 15+4reb+1ast, E.Silva 10+5reb+3ast, L.Fonte 4+7reb, J.Anjos 2+1reb

Electrico FC - Galitos-Tley 76-72 OT

4th placed Galitos-Tley (8-7) fell to seventh ranked Electrico FC (8-7) in overtime by four points 72-76 on Sunday night. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 19-12 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 8-4. Electrico FC forced 26 Galitos-Tley turnovers. It was a good game for guard Tiago Pinto (183-88) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 6 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Guard Tiago Brito (180-85) contributed with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Cape Verdean forward Denis Neves (197-78) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and forward Rui Quintino (196-83) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Galitos-Tley. Four Galitos-Tley players scored in double figures. Galitos-Tley's coach Francisco Edgard rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Electrico FC moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Galitos-Tley. Galitos-Tley lost fourth consecutive game. Electrico FC will face Maia Basket (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Galitos-Tley will play against Povoa (#12).
Top scorers:
Galitos-Tley: D.Neves 20+10reb+2ast, J.Ferreira 18+4reb, A.Coelho 13+1reb+2ast, R.Quintino 12+9reb+2ast, F.Pinheiro 5+2reb+1ast, G.Chucha 2+2reb+2ast
Electrico FC: T.Pinto 23+2reb+6ast, T.Brito 14+5reb+7ast, J.Lanzinha 11+3reb+1ast, M.Neves 8+12reb+2ast, A.Medeiros 6+1reb+1ast, J.Andre 5+8reb

Fisica - Maia Basket 64-71

There was an upset when 4th placed Fisica (8-7) lost to ninth ranked Maia Basket (7-8) in Torres Vedras