Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/10/2012

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Men News

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ACPBL

Haymon joins loaded Bombers - by Justin Moore
Antonio Haymon (6'6''-F-88, college: Lee), the explosive 6-7 pro swing forward has re-joined the Beltway Bombers roster for rest of season. Tony just returned from a 4 month stint playing professionally in Romania as one of the leagues leading scorers. 'I'm grateful for the opportunity to play again with the Bombers and Coach Chaz. We have a very talented team with a lot of players that I know. Very anxious to get out on the court and play'. An Overseas and D-League pro scout and agent described Antonio's talents...He's an extremely tough cover. Great first step, explodes to the basket, finishes at the rim, has a mid-range jumper and can step out and knock down pro 3 point shots. He can guard the 1 through 4. Fast, strong, quick, has an NBA body, and plays hard. Has the speed of a point guard and the strength of a power forward. Once he gets that consistent assassins mindset like Hugh Jones, he will be a serious problem to handle.

Antonio now joins the reigning ACPBL MVP and league leading scorer; Hugh 'Baby Shaq' Jones, and last seasons leading scorer Marcus Fisher; along with the Bombers current pros Rogers Barnes, Jamaal Wise, Cavell Johnson, Dave Bailey, Steve Miles, Evan Martin, Mike Lewis, Lawrence Felder, Myron Howe and Stacey Daniels .

'I've had the pleasure of watching Antonio develop into an elite pro over the last five years, since I relocated from NYC to MD'. Coach Chaz adds that 'playing Tony along side of Shaq and our other pros, allows me to be versatile with my lineups, and to create favorable matchups. It's great to have him back'.

Bombers have five games remaining in ACPBL regular season, with four of those games at their home gym (s). Antonio will get to showcase his skills on Saturday, March 10th, when the Bombers play on the road in Severn MD against the Bay Area Shuckers. Bombers then host four straight home games beginning with the Hudson Valley Kings on March 17th, Manhattan Pride on March 31st, Hartford Lightning on April 14th, and Delaware Destroyers on March 21st.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Adriatic League round 23 best performance: Miro Bilan - by Eurobasket News
Forward Miro Bilan (213-F-89) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Cedevita, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 22-year old player had a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds, while his team edged out Cibona (#6, 12-11) in overtime 106-102. Cedevita maintains the 2nd position in Adriatic League . They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Cedevita will need more victories to improve their 18-5 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Bilan as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Miro Bilan averages this season 10.0ppg and 5.5rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American David Simon (207-C-82) of Radnicki K.. Simon had a very good evening with a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Radnicki K. lost that game 72-77 to the lower-ranked Helios (#11, 7-16). Radnicki K. managed to keep the same 8th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-12 record. Simon is a newcomer at Radnicki K., but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.1ppg (#1). He also registered 6.9 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was Tomislav Zubcic (214-C/F-90, agency: Beo Basket) of Cibona (#6). Zubcic scored 24 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Zubcic's great performance Cibona lost 102-106in overtime to the higher-ranked Cedevita (#2, 18-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Cibona needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 11 lost games. Zubcic has a very solid season. In 19 games in Adriatic League he scored 8.4ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marko Car (188-SG-85) of Cedevita - 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82) of Cibona - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Damir Markota (210-C/F-85) of KK Zagreb CO - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89) of Radnicki K. - 12 points and 17 rebounds
8. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88) of Hemofarm - 21 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Deon Thompson (203-F-88) of Union Olimpija - 19 points and 3 rebounds
10. Levour Warren (196-F-81) of Cedevita - 24 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

1. Obras		19-8
2. Penarol		19-9
3. Lanus		19-9
4. Libertad S.		18-10
5. Sionista		16-11
6. Quimsa		15-12
7. La Union		15-13
8. GECR Indalo		15-13
9. Atenas		15-13
10. Regatas C.		13-15
11. Wuber-Est.Bahia		11-16
12. Olimpico LB		11-17
13. Boca Jrs		11-17
14. Club 9		9-19
15. Quilmes MP		9-19
16. San Mart.C.		7-21

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Johwen VILLEGAS
  Sionista
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 17.5

1. Villegas, Sionista	17.5
2. Smith, La Union	17.5
3. Gutierrez, Obras	17.3
4. DeGroat, Olimpico.	16.1
5. OBannon, Boca Jrs	15.9
6. Pittman, Libertad.	15.8
7. McHopson, Quilm.	15.8
8. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	15.8
9. Nelson, GECR I.	15.6
10. Lo Grippo, Quimsa	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.6

1. Martinez, San M.	12.6
2. Battle, Libertad S.	9.8
3. Garces, Atenas	9.4
4. Sandes, Sionista	9.4
5. Davis, GECR I.	9.3
6. Lloreda, Olimpico.	8.8
7. Gutierrez, Obras	8.4
8. Williams, Quimsa	7.4
9. Rollins, Sionista	7.3
10. Truscott, Quilm.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Campazzo, Penarol	6.5
2. Sanchez, Wuber-.	5.7
3. Stanic, Boca Jrs	5.6
4. Cequeira, Sionista	5.0
5. Martinez, Regat.	4.7
6. Sucatzky, Atenas	3.9
7. Laprovittola, Lanus	3.7
8. Victoriano, San M.	3.6
9. Osimani, Obras	3.5
10. Smith, La Union	3.5

Steals Per Game

Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Lescano, Atenas	2.4
2. Campazzo, Penarol	2.3
3. Moldu, Olimpico LB	1.9
4. McHopson, Quilm.	1.7
5. Sanchez, Wuber-.	1.6
6. Stanic, Boca Jrs	1.5
7. Treise, Libertad S.	1.5
8. Beitzel, San M.	1.4
9. Gerbaudo, Club 9	1.4
10. Quinteros, Regat.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Battle, Libertad S.	1.5
2. Clancy, Club 9	1.4
3. Matthews, Quilm.	1.3
4. Rollins, Sionista	1.3
5. Roe, Regatas C.	1.1
6. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	1.1
7. Gutierrez, Obras	1.1
8. Humphrey, Atenas	1.0
9. Garces, Atenas	0.9
10. Rollins, San M.	0.9

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AUSTRALIA

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Patrick MILLS
  Tigers
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 18.6

1. Mills, Tigers	18.6
2. Lisch, Wildcats	17.6
3. Wilson, Taipans	17.0
4. Tragardh, Tigers	17.0
5. Deleon, Blaze	16.9
6. Johnson, 36ers	16.4
7. Khazzouh, Kings	16.3
8. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.1
9. Worthington, Blaze	15.6
10. Bose, Kings	15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Khazzouh, Kings	11.0
2. Holmes, Crocodiles	9.3
3. Simpsons, 36ers	8.1
4. Grant, Kings	8.1
5. Johnson, 36ers	7.8
6. Crosswhite, Taipa.	7.8
7. Vukona, Breakers	6.6
8. Worthington, Blaze	6.4
9. Bose, Kings	6.3
10. Jackson, Breakers	6.2

Assists Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Jackson, Breakers	6.1
2. Mills, Tigers	5.0
3. Crosswell, 36ers	4.7
4. Gibson, Blaze	4.6
5. Bruce, Kings	4.4
6. Gill, Crocodiles	4.1
7. Martin, Wildcats	3.9
8. Martin, Hawks	3.4
9. Ubaka, Tigers	3.3
10. Crosswhite, Taipa.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Jackson, Breakers	2.5
2. Martin, Wildcats	2.2
3. Robbins, Wildcats	1.7
4. Tovey, Wildcats	1.4
5. Deleon, Blaze	1.4
6. Mims, Crocodiles	1.4
7. Gibson, Blaze	1.3
8. Gill, Crocodiles	1.3
9. Crawford, Croco.	1.2
10. Glover, Hawks	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Khazzouh, Kings	2.1
2. Simpsons, 36ers	1.6
3. Grant, Kings	1.5
4. Nevill, Wildcats	1.2
5. Johnson, 36ers	1.2
6. Abercrombie, Break.	1.0
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.0
8. Martin, Wildcats	0.9
9. Pledger, Breakers	0.8
10. Worthington, Blaze	0.8

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Breakers		18-6
2. Wildcats		16-9
3. Blaze		15-9
4. Crocodiles		14-11
5. Taipans		14-11
6. Tigers		11-15
7. Kings		10-16
8. 36ers		8-16
9. Hawks		6-19

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AUSTRIA

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Standings

Group A
1. Gmunden		19-6
2. Kapfenberg		18-7
3. Wels		18-7
4. Klosterneub.		17-8
5. Oberwart		16-9
6. Gussing		11-14
Group B
1. Furstenfeld		11-13
2. BC Vienna		9-14
3. UBSC Graz		8-16
4. Arkadia		6-18
5. St.Polten		1-22

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.1

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.1
2. Booker, St.Polten	25.3
3. Wade, Arkadia	24.4
4. Drenovac, Arkadia	22.0
5. Reed, Oberwart	19.9
6. Djuric, Gussing	18.3
7. Shavies, Furstenf.	18.1
8. Fears, Kapfenberg	18.0
9. Shaw, Oberwart	17.8
10. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	13.8
2. Werner, Wels	9.0
3. Gordon, Kapfenberg	8.0
4. Reed, Oberwart	7.8
5. Oppland, Gmunden	7.7
6. Moric, UBSC G.	7.1
7. Robinson, Furstenf.	7.1
8. Ware, Furstenfeld	7.0
9. Scott, Gussing	7.0
10. Skurdauskas, Arka.	7.0

Assists Per Game

Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Danek, Arkadia	6.7
2. Fears, Kapfenberg	5.8
3. Shavies, Furstenf.	5.4
4. Schreiner, Kapfe.	5.4
5. Klepeisz, Gussing	4.9
6. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	4.6
7. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.5
8. Milosevic, St.Polt.	4.4
9. Lanegger, Klostern.	4.2
10. Curry, Gmunden	4.2

Steals Per Game

Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Fears, Kapfenberg	2.5
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.4
3. Schreiner, Kapfe.	2.2
4. Pryor, Wels	2.2
5. Brown, Wels	1.7
6. Jandl, Oberwart	1.5
7. Wade, Arkadia	1.5
8. Scott, Gussing	1.4
9. Artner, Oberwart	1.4
10. Milosevic, St.Pol.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	3.2
2. Scott, Gussing	1.1
3. Ware, Furstenfeld	1.1
4. Koch, Gussing	0.9
5. Kohlmaier, Wels	0.8
6. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.7
7. Nelson, Kapfenberg	0.6
8. Moric, UBSC G.	0.6
9. Brown, Wels	0.6
10. Chappell, Kloster.	0.5

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BALKAN LEAGUE

Standings

Balkan League Standings

Group A
1. Galil Gilboa			9-1
2. Mornar Bar			6-4
3. Rilski Sportist			6-4
4. Timisoara			5-5
5. OKK Beograd			2-8
6. Torus Skopje			2-8
Group B
1. Levski Sofia			10-0
2. Hapoel T-A			8-2
3. Napredak			5-5
4. Feni Indistrija			4-5
5. Zrinjski HT			1-8
6. Ulcinj			1-9

Last round of the regular season - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in Balkan League just ended. Galil Gilboa is the winner of Group A with 9-1 record, while Levski won Group B with perfect 10-0 score. They advanced directly to the Semifinals. Rilski, Hapoel Tel Aviv and Mornar booked a spot for the QFinals. There is one more spot available for this stage and It will be occupied by Feni Industri or Napredak (depends on the last Round 9 game).

Group A

Torus Skopje - Galil Gilboa 70-86
The game was mostly controlled by Galil Gilboa. Torus Skopje was better in fourth quarter 18-9. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Galil Gilboa especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 61.5 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of center Ido Kozikaro (203-78) who helped to win the game recording 8 points and 9 rebounds. American Courtney Fells (198-86, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Jovan Markovski (197-88) replied with 17 points and American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Torus Skopje. Torus Skopje's coach Slobodan Petrovski tested ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: C.Fells 14+2reb, J.Martin 14+2reb, A.Bier-Katz 10+4reb+1ast, I.Kozikaro 8+9reb, R.Travis 8+4reb+3ast, D.Yavzuri 8+1reb+2ast
Torus Skopje: J.Markovski 17+3reb+1ast, P.Blazevski 11+2reb+4ast, J.Reynolds 10+6reb+2ast, K.Bradley 7+1reb+1ast, B.Krstevski 7+3reb+2ast, I.Dimcevski 6+1reb+1ast

Timisoara - Mornar Bar 88-73
The game was mostly controlled by Timisoara. Mornar Bar was better in third quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Mornar Bar 36-24 including 27 on the defensive glass. American forward Dominique Archie (200-87, college: S.Carolina) notched 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and Bosnian point guard Zlatko Jovanovic (181-84, agency: Beo Basket) supported him with 17 points and 7 assists. Even 15 points by power forward Filip Barovic (208-90) did not help to save the game for Mornar Bar. Serbian Ivan Jelenic (190-85, agency: BeoExcell) added 12 points for lost side. Five Timisoara and four Mornar Bar players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Timisoara: S.Spralja 17+5reb+1ast, Z.Jovanovic 17+3reb+7ast, D.Archie 16+8reb+4ast, R.Sarovic 14+2reb+1ast, D.Paltinisanu 12+7reb, D.Andrei 6+1reb+1ast
Mornar Bar: F.Barovic 15+4reb, I.Jelenic 12+3reb+2ast, V.Pavic 12+4reb+1ast, L.Radosavljevic 11+1reb+2ast, A.Scott 9+2reb+3ast, M.Damjanovic 6+3reb+1ast

Rilski Sportist - OKK Beograd 87-70
Rilski Sportist led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Serbian center Sasa Mijajlovic (211-80, college: Hutchinson CC) scored 15 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) chipped in 16 points, 5 assists and 4 steals during the contest. Five Rilski Sportist players scored in double figures. At the losing side center Milos Suzic (205-88) responded with 14 points and Stanoje Knezevic (202-89) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Rilski Sportist: M.Marinov 17+3reb+1ast, B.Mirkovic 16+2reb+5ast, S.Mijajlovic 15+9reb+2ast, A.Velikov 12+3reb+2ast, H.Zahariev 12+2reb+5ast, A.Bilobrk 7+3reb+4ast
OKK Beograd: M.Suzic 14+3reb+1ast, S.Knezevic 10+6reb, L.Maksimovic 9+4reb+3ast, N.Bezbradica 8+3reb+1ast, N.Misanovic 7+3reb+2ast, M.Kovac 7+1reb+1ast

Group B

Ulcinj - Napredak 0-20

Feni Indistrija - Levski Sofia 84-91
Feni Indistrija trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 27-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 84-91 at the end of the game. Levski Sofia had a 30-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. French-Bulgarian power forward Vasil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) fired a double-double by scoring 13 points and 16 rebounds for the winners. American point guard Jarrett Howell (180-84, college: Texas Arlington, agency: 011 Sports) chipped in 22 points (made all of his seven free throws). Four Levski Sofia players scored in double figures. Serbian center Dusan Knezevic (207-80, agency: BeoExcell) produced 17 points and 5 rebounds and American swingman Jarrid Frye (194-85, college: Sacred Heart) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Feni Indistrija's coach Emil Rajkovic rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Levski Sofia: J.Howell 22+3reb+2ast, A.Harper 19+4reb+1ast, M.Hall 16+4reb+3ast, V.Evtimov 13+16reb, P.Ivanov 11+3reb+1ast, H.Dimitrov 7+6reb+5ast
Feni Indistrija: D.Knezevic 17+5reb+3ast, J.Frye 14+7reb+3ast, D.Radulovic 12, Z.Gocevski 12+2reb, M.Simonovski 6+7reb+1ast, G.Samardziev 6+4reb+9ast

Hapoel T-A - Zrinjski HT 90-86
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Zrinjski HT won third quarter 23-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Tel-Aviv shot 60.3 percent from the field and made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. American Curtis Kelly (205-88, college: Kansas St.) had a double-double by scoring 26 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Bar Timor (191-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists during the contest. At the losing side American forward Marcel Jones (203-85, college: Oregon St., agency: David Lee services) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and Serbian guard Edi Sinadinovic (190-88) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 14 assists.
Top scorers:
Hapoel T-A: C.Kelly 26+10reb+5ast, Y.Shiran 19+1reb+1ast, B.Timor 15+4reb+6ast, J.Skjoldebrand 11+3reb+2ast, G.Eytan 8+2reb+7ast, A.Zelkovits 6+5reb+3ast
Zrinjski HT: B.Lalovic 23+4reb, M.Jones 20+12reb+2ast, A.Hasandic 13+3reb+2ast, L.Klarica 12+5reb+2ast, E.Sinadinovic 12+3reb+14ast, K.Avdic 4+3reb

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Siauliai			16-4
2. Triumph			15-4
3. Rudupis			12-7
4. Ventspils			11-7
5. Kalev/Cramo			11-7
6. Kedainiai			10-9
7. Juventus			9-11
8. Pieno Zvaigzdes			8-10
9. Tartu Ulikool			6-14
10. Baltai Kaunas			4-15
11. Liepaja			3-17
Challenge Cup
1. Tarvas			10-2
2. Neptunas			6-4
3. Naglis Palangos			6-5
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-7
5. Jelgava			1-7
6. Lietkabelis			11-2
7. Sakalai			9-5
8. Valmiera			8-4
9. TTU			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	16.9
5. Pilk, TTU	16.4
6. Mayo, Liepaja	16.2
7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	15.9
8. Hallik, Tarvas	15.5
9. Young, Ventspils	15.1
10. Vasylius, Siauliai	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

David MCCLURE
  Kedainiai
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 9.2

1. McClure, Kedainiai	9.2
2. Cipruss, Tarvas	9.1
3. Ringmets, Rapla	8.6
4. Mednis, Turiba	8.0
5. Arnold, TTU	7.7
6. Johnson, Naglis P.	7.7
7. Bowles, Siauliai	7.4
8. Barinov, Naglis P.	7.1
9. Galdikas, Neptunas	7.1
10. Rozitis, Valmiera	6.9

Assists Per Game

Sarunas VASILIAUSKAS
  Lietka.
  (188-G-89)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Vasiliauskas, Liet.	5.5
2. Broadus, Siauliai	4.8
3. Kriisa, Tarvas	4.6
4. Sirsnins, Tarvas	4.5
5. Maceina, Juventus	4.3
6. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
7. Dainys, Neptunas	4.3
8. Benn, Naglis Palan.	4.2
9. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	4.2
10. Rinkevicius, Nagl.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Tywain MCKEE
  Triumph
  (188-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. McKee, Triumph	2.8
2. Sirsnins, Tarvas	2.7
3. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
4. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
5. Akenparg, TTU	1.8
6. Virsis, Valmiera	1.8
7. Keedus, TTU	1.8
8. Laane, Rapla	1.8
9. Long, Siauliai	1.7
10. Hughes, Pieno Z.	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.	1.7
4. Gumeniuk, Juventus	1.6
5. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
6. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.2
7. Morgan, Pieno Z.	1.1
8. Leiteris, Liepaja	1.1
9. Soloviev, Triumph	1.0
10. McClure, Kedainiai	0.8

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Spirou		14-6
2. Oostende		14-7
3. Antwerp		12-6
4. Aalstar		12-8
5. Leuven		11-8
6. M.Hainaut		9-10
7. Liege		7-12
8. Gent		5-15
9. Verviers-Pep.		4-16

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Copeland, Aalstar	19.9
2. Bostic, Liege	17.0
3. Lojeski, Oostende	16.4
4. Mallet, Spirou	16.3
5. Rich, Oostende	15.7
6. Green, Spirou	14.6
7. Taylor, M.Hainaut	14.4
8. Freeman, Leuven	14.2
9. Black, Antwerp	14.1
10. Haynes, Gent	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Graham BROWN
  Gent
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Brown, Gent	8.2
2. McLean, Leuven	7.4
3. Love, Verviers-Pep.	7.4
4. Mejri, Antwerp	7.0
5. Young, Aalstar	6.9
6. Merriex, Verviers.	6.9
7. Booker, Oostende	6.1
8. Green, Spirou	5.8
9. Wright, Oostende	5.7
10. Matela, Liege	5.7

Assists Per Game

Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Waters, Liege	4.1
2. Djordjevic, Ooste.	3.9
3. Wisniewski, Spirou	3.7
4. Bosco, Gent	3.4
5. Marnegrave, Leuven	3.4
6. Black, Antwerp	3.3
7. Winston, Oostende	3.0
8. Singletary, M.Hain.	3.0
9. Bostic, Liege	2.9
10. Rich, Oostende	2.9

Steals Per Game

Sean SINGLETARY
  M.Hainaut
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Singletary, M.Hain.	2.5
2. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.3
3. Black, Antwerp	2.3
4. Mukubu, Verviers.	2.2
5. Wilson, Antwerp	2.2
6. Mallet, Spirou	1.9
7. Ruoff, Aalstar	1.8
8. Bostic, Liege	1.7
9. Slaughter, M.Hai.	1.7
10. Bosco, Gent	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Mejri, Antwerp	2.5
2. Riddick, Spirou	1.8
3. Jennings, Liege	1.6
4. Young, Aalstar	1.1
5. Love, Verviers-Pep.	0.8
6. Booker, Oostende	0.8
7. Vaughn, Antwerp	0.6
8. Holiday, Aalstar	0.6
9. Copeland, Aalstar	0.6
10. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.6

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Victor scored 12 in win - by David Edole

BRANSON, Mo. Malcolm Campbell# scored a tournament-high 29 points in leading No. 15 Warner University to an 84-63 win over Indiana University East in the first round of the NAIA Division II Mens Basketball National Championship. The 2012 event is being played at the Keeter Gymnasium on the Campus of College of the Ozarks. The Royals earn their first win in the National Tournament since 2003 and improve to 24-10 on the season.

Campbell made 12-of-16 field goal attempts and put in 5-of-9 free throws en route to the highest scoring output of the tournament so far through two days of action. The senior forward also pulled down 11 rebounds and had two blocked shots.

Warner used an early 21-6 run to pull ahead for good and led by as many as 10 in the first half. A three pointer by Marcus Isaac after an Indiana East offensive rebound put the score at 37-30 at halftime.

The Royals pushed the lead to double-digitss within the first few minutes of the second half. Leading 59-45, the Red Wolves made one final charge and cut the lead down to nine but Campbell scored six of the next eight points for Warner as they become the third The Sun Conference team to advance to the second round (St. Thomas and Northwood).

Warner shot 53% for the game, including a remarkable 67% in the second half. Ray Victor added 12 points and Bryce Kachinski made three of the Royals four three-pointers and scored 11. Warner out-rebounded the Red Hawks 46-30 in the game. The Red Hawks had no answer for the Royals size inside as Campbell had his way around the rim.

Kayo Taylor came off the bench to chip in eight points and four rebounds. Senior David Westberry added eight points and six assists at the point for the Royals. Ian Wilhelm scored 10 points as well.

The Royals advance to the round of 16 tomorrow in match against No. 2 Oregon Tech. The Royals will keep their exact same schedule as the game will start at 2:45 p.m. (EST) tomorrow afternoon.

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CANADA

Taliek Brown Rejoins Rainmen - by Eurobasket News
The Halifax Rainmen are pleased to announce that 6'1'', 195-pound point guard, Taliek Brown (6'1''-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Connecticut), has rejoined the team.

Brown was suspended on March 1 for personal reasons that were addressed internally. He will join the team at practice today and will suit up for the Rainmen's first playoff round versus the Quebec Kebs, kicking off on March 11 in Quebec City.

The Rainmen will return to the Metro Centre for game two of the best-of-three series on Thursday, March 15 at 7 p.m.. They will play game three if necessary on Friday, March 16 at 7 p.m.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Lightning sweep Mill Rats, advance to Finals - by Eurobasket News
The London Lightning are going to need the keys to the janitor closet to get some brooms after beating the Saint John Mill Rats 87-82 in front of a record home crowd Friday (March 9) and sweeping the best-of-three series.

'Whether you win by one or you win by 30, it doesn't matter', said London head coach Michael Ray Richardson. 'The most important thing now is to win.'

Game two's matchup comes after an exciting 106-105 Lightning win at the Harbour Station in New Brunswick that saw six London players score in double-digits.

The Lightning came down hard to open Fridays game, going on a 12-3 run in the first six minutes and getting the 3,919 in attendance loud quickly highest attendance for a Lightning game.

London guard Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.) jumped for loose balls willingly, teammate 6-foot-8 Shawn Daniels (6'8''-F-79, college: Utah St.) blocked back-to-back Saint John shots barely jumping and Lightning all-star forward Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC) could have sold property underneath his basket, collecting nine of a game high 14 defensive rebounds in the first half.

The strong play had London players literally beating their chest early and carrying a 24-13 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The home teams lightning ran short in the second when Mill Rats Steve DeLuca (6'6''-G/F, college: Brandeis) hit consecutive three-pointers with his team down by 9 points starting a rally capped by a long distance basket by Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) to put Saint John up 43-40 at halftime.

At recess, Coach Richardson must have given a speech to his team similar to the one played before the game from actor Gene Hackman in Hoosiers; The Lightning were able to find their charge again in the third quarter going on an 11-0 run before Saint Johns called a time-out with a little more than three minutes played.

We didnt play any defence in that second quarter, we let them score 30 points and that was the key, Richardson said. We came out and played much better defence in that second half.

By the end of the third though, the Mill Rats were able to work their way within one point.

In the final frame, the Mill Rats life came down to 17 seconds and still trailing one when Freeman put up a rainbow shot behind the arc that would have iced Saint John. The long shot bounced hard off the rim, fumbling the ball off several players before making its way back into Freemans hands, forcing the Mill Rats to foul.

I havent been shooting the ball well for the last six or seven games, but my confidence is still there, so Im not going to stop shooting the basketball, Freeman said, going only 3-for-22 from deep in the last six games and 0-for-5 in the playoffs.

Thats what I got teammates forit works hand-in-hand.

Londons season leading scorer hit his two foul shots to chants of MVP and a final miss to tie the game by Mill Rats Jermaine Blackburn (6'7''-G/F-83, college: Boise St.), who had a game high 24 points, sealed the Lightnings fate to the championships.

Forward Shamari Spears (6'6''-F-86, college: Charlotte), coming off the bench, led the Lightning with 18 points and teammate Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, college: Ill.-Springfield), who also started on the sideline, stayed close behind at 14.

London has yet to learn of their foe in the best-of-five finale. The other playoff matchup between the Halifax Rainmen and the Quebec Kebs starts Sunday (March 11) at PEPS of Laval University. The earliest that series will end is Thursday (March 15), giving the Lightning some time to recharge.

We dont get any rest until the season is over, Smith said.

Courtesy of www.londoncommunitynews.com

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CHILE

Dimayor: Semifinals are set - by Eurobasket News
Dimayor Semifinals are set to start. Union Espanola and Deportivo Espanol completed Semifinals picture with their wins in crucial fifth games of the QFinals. Union Espanola eliminated Universidad Catolica with 3-2 in the series. Union Espanola celebrated crucial 75-60 victory in their latest meeting. Deportivo Espanol blasted Sokol 91-69 in Game Five. Earlier, U.Concepcion and Liceo Mixto already booked a spot for the Semis. They eliminated their rivals with perfect 3-0 in the series. Semifinals will start today. Pairs are U.Concepcion - U.Espanola and Lixeo Mixto - Deportivo Espanol. Both series are best-of-five.

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CHINA

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

J.R. SMITH
  Zhejiang C.
  (198-G-85)
  Avg: 34.4

1. Smith, Zhejiang C.	34.4
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	33.6
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	32.2
4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	29.1
5. Akognon, DongGuan.	28.2
6. McDonald, Fujian X.	27.6
7. Roberson, Fujian XX	26.9
8. Chandler, Guangsha.	26.6
9. Martin, Jilin N.	26.3
10. Marbury, Beijing	26.1

Rebounds Per Game

Donnell HARVEY
  TianJin R.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 14.6

1. Harvey, TianJin R.	14.6
2. Abbas, Fujian XX	14.5
3. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	14.2
4. Ramos, Guangsha L.	13.3
5. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	13.1
6. Hunter, Shandong	12.5
7. Lawal, Xinjiang.	12.3
8. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.2
9. Harris, Shanghai S.	12.2
10. Randolph, DongGu.	11.9

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.3
2. Yang, Liaoning H.	6.5
3. Marbury, Beijing	6.3
4. Hudson, Qingdao DS	6.3
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	5.8
6. Brooks, Guandong	4.8
7. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.4
8. Mengke, Xinjiang.	4.3
9. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	4.3
10. Zhang, Liaoning H.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Hudson, Qingdao DS	2.9
2. Pickett, Xinjiang.	2.9
3. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.5
4. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.5
5. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.4
6. Williams, Shanxi Z.	2.4
7. Marbury, Beijing	2.4
8. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	2.2
9. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.2
10. Anderson, Shando.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

ZhongHao XU
  Bayi Fubang
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Xu, Bayi Fubang	2.3
2. Zhang, Shanghai S.	1.8
3. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.7
4. Douthit, Foshan	1.6
5. Randolph, DongGua.	1.6
6. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.6
7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	1.6
8. Watkins, Jilin N.	1.5
9. Abbas, Fujian XX	1.4
10. Lawal, Xinjiang.	1.3

CBA Round 3 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Xinjiang F.T. - Guandong ST 102-120

The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. Xinjiang Flying Tige was better in third quarter 25-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers dominated down low during the game scoring 86 of its points in the paint compared to Xinjiang Flying Tige's 52 and made 19-of-23 charity shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Guandong Tigers forced 21 Xinjiang Flying Tige turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. It was a quality performance for American forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 16 rebounds. The former international forward Peng Zhou (207-89) accounted for 20 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Four Guandong Tigers players scored in double figures. Guandong Tigers' coach ChunJiang Li used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American-Nigerian power forward Ike Diogu (203-83, college: Arizona St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and international swingman Duo Peng (192-90) added 22 points respectively for Xinjiang Flying Tige in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: X.GuoChong 23+2reb, D.Ike 22+10reb+1ast, P.Duo 22+2reb+2ast, T.ZhengDong 9+4reb+1ast, P.Tim 9+4reb+3ast, M.Bateer 7+4reb
Guandong ST: S.James 21+16reb+1ast, Z.Peng 20+2reb+5ast, Z.FangYu 20+2reb+1ast, B.Aaron 16+2reb+7ast, W.Zheng 12+2reb+1ast, S.Wei 9+7reb

Beijing Ducks - Shanxi Zh. 128-115

The game was mostly controlled by Beijing Ducks. Shanxi Zhongyu managed to win second period 35-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Beijing Ducks won last quarter 38-27. They made 33-of-43 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 68.4 percentage. 29 personal fouls committed by Shanxi Zhongyu helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for guard Stephon Marbury (188-77, college: Georgia Tech) who led his team to a victory scoring 53 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) helped adding 31 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 23 rebounds and swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) scored 32 points and 9 rebounds (went 13 for 13 at the free throw line !!!). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Shanxi Zhongyu's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Shanxi Zh.: G.Charles 34+23reb+1ast, W.Marcus 32+9reb+3ast, L.XiaoMing 18+5reb+2ast, Z.XueWen 11+1reb+1ast, R.Junwei 7+7reb, B.ZhaoBao 6
Beijing Ducks: M.Stephon 53+5reb+4ast, M.Randolph 31+7reb+2ast, Z.Xiaochuan 11+1reb, Z.YanXi 10+6reb, L.Hsueh-Lin 10+10reb+5ast, J.Zhe 8+4reb

Guangdong Wins Series with Xinjiang, Beijing Leads Shanxi 2-1 as Marbury Again Scores Over 50 - by Arthur Volbert
Guangdong won its series with Xinjiang 3-0 while Beijing took a 2-1 lead over Shanxi.

Using a balanced attack Guangdong defeated Xinjiang 120-102. Xinjiang was again without its native star Xirelijiang. Singleton James (203-F-81, college: Murray St.) had 21 points and 16 rebounds for Guangdong. Zhou Peng had 20 points and 5 assists. Zhu Fangyu scored 20. Aaron Brooks had 16 points, 7 assists and 5 steals. Wang Zheng had 12 points, 2 rebounds and 2 blocks. Su Wei had 9 points and 7 rebounds. Wang Shipeng scored 8.

Xu Guozhong had 23 points for Xinjiang. Ike Diogu had 22 points and 10 rebounds. Meng Duo scored 22. Tang Zhengdong and Tim Pickett each had 9 points and 4 rebounds.

Stephon Marbury had 53 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists as Beijing beat Shanxi 128-115. Randolph Morris had 31 points and 7 rebounds. Zhai Xiaochuan scored 11. 173 cm :ee Hsueh-Lin had 10 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Zhu Yanxi had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Ji Zhe had 8 points and 4 rebounds.

Charles Gaines had 34 points and 23 rebounds for Shanxi. Marcus Williams had 32 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Lv Xiaoming had 18 points and 5 rebounds. Zhang Xuewen scored 11. Ren Junhui had 7 points and 7 rebounds. Duan Jiangpeng scored 2, hitting 1 of 4 shots.

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COLOMBIA

Manizales will be back in the Federation Cup - by Victor Garcia
According to sources in the city of Manizales, the professional soccer team 11 Caldas and the Manizales Major office reached and agreement to put a team in the 2012 Federation Cup, the details are not ready yet, but the budget for the team is already guaranteed.
Manizales has a rich history in the Colombias top level Basketball with the Sabios team, champion in the 2000 season coached by Guillermo Moreno, the city has a tradition of good imports like Duane Washington, Omar Sneed, Napoleon Pettway and others.
The Federation Cup is not schedulled yet.

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CYPRUS

Semi Finals: Game no.1 Etha succeeded a crucial road win for the 0-1 in the series. - by Chris Mammides
InterCollege Etha Engomis reminded to all of us the last season and the fact that is the champion! So, in another game against all odds the team of Coach Konstantinidis beat the team of Pizza Experss Apollon having in a great night the American guard Ken Tutt (185-PG-84, college: ORU) and the Serbian power forward Dejan Cup (202-PF-83).
Coach Konstantinidis saw some of his key players like Darryl Jackson and Mike King remaining in shallow waters in terms of their scoring duties while Watkins and Englisky gave their best but they were in a medium day, but Etha received some crucial points and rebounds by the experienced Savo Djikanovic (211-C-75) and Giorgos Anastasiadis (194-SF-77).
The first period ended with 18-19 for the visiting site who started the game a bit better than their opponents with Darryl Watkins dominating in the air while Dejan Dejan Cup was essential in his scoring abilities. On the other hand, Coach Migliecks saw Gillenwatter being very hot from the early beginning, as the American was leading his team with 9 points (50% of his teams total scoring) while Yannis Gagaloudis (192-G-78) was not so good in the scoring sector but his three assists in the first 8 minutes in the court was identifying quite many elements in his indispensable game. Top scorer for Etha at this first period was Dejan Cup with 7 followed by Jackson with 4.
The second period started with Apollon taking the initiatives and with the newcomer Brandon Wallace (206-F-85, college: S.Carolina) scoring his first three points in the Cyprus league (a goal foul) the home team took a small lead 25-23 with six minutes to the end of the first half. The team of Coach Konstantinidis remained nearly three minutes without score and the Cypriot Coach decided to take his time-out. Etha continue to remain pointless after some new turnovers by Savo Djikanovic and Engliscky while last years MVP of the league, Giorgos Giorgos Anastasiadis scored to break a four minute silence of Etha. Apollon duplicate Ethas performance and remain pointless for as many as three minutes with no score before Troy Gillenwater (205-F-88, college: N.Mexico St.) reaches a double digit (13 points) with 1 of 2 free throws and a fast break 3.22 before the end of the first half the score became 28-27. The first half ended with the score being 34-35 for the visiting site of Etha Engomis as at the last bit of the period, Savo Djikanovic dominated in both edges and his 6 points and 4 rebounds were critical to the half games result. On the other hand, Coach Miglinieks saw Troy Gillenwater and Yannis Gagaloudis scoring the 22 out of 34 points of his team with the rest of the team (with an exception of Robinson) remaining to a very low productive levels. On the other hand, Coach Konstantinidis saw his team to share equally the 35 points as 8 players scored these 35 points with Dejan Cup remaining to his 7 of the first period followed by Ken Tutt and Savo Djikanovic with 6 and Jackson with Giorgos Anastasiadis with 4 each, For some reason, Giorgos Anastasiadis even though he was among the stand outs of his team, his coach only let him in the court 6 minutes, one may wonder why???
The 3rd period started with the two teams paying a totally balance game and 5 minutes before the end of the 3rd period, to be in a total balance with 43-43 after a four consecutive three pointers from both teams and by Rush (2) and Thomas Massamba (185-PG-85) and Dejan Cup respectively. From then and on and for the next five minutes the two teams succeed a 7-6 record with Apollon lead the game with 50-49 and Yannis Gagaloudis adding his 14th point from the charity line. Apollons game was counted 100% by Yannis Gagaloudis and Rush at this period as Gillenwater remain pointless in this period.
In the 4th and most crucial period the visiting site of Coach Konstantinidis was much better and started the game with a basket by Savo Djikanovic (10 points) and a 3pointer by Mike King (7 points) but a pair of threes by Robinson and Yannis Gagaloudis did the 58-54, 6.30 before the end. Dejan Cup, Ken Tutt and Giorgos Anastasiadis who performed great last night in another crucial game, brought the game in a total balance 61-6, 4.36; before the end, and a minute after the turning point scene took place, as Troy Gillenwater accept a technical foul after an unsportsmanlike foul on Dejan Cup who stole the ball from the American, but the American thought that a foul was performed against him and he fouled the Serbian back, even if he had wrightt eh way to prove it was totally wrong. The game lost its consistency, and Etha took a total advantage of this technical foul for the 61-64, but Troy Gillenwater was there and with his 17th point from the arc balanced the game for a 6th time, to 64-64, 1.40 to the end of the thrilling game. Ken Tutt scored 4 unanswered points in a crucial part of the game, while Lezhava and Yannis Gagaloudis missed a pair of 3s and the game ended somewhere there as Apollon simply couldnt come back. Final score 64-72!
Top scorers:
Apollon: Yannis Gagaloudis 20 and 4 assists, Troy Gillenwater 17 and 6 rebounds
Etha: Dejan Cup 14 and 7 rebounds, Ken Tutt 12 and Savo Djikanovic 10

A special dedication for this victory goes to the great defence of Thomas Massamba and the good and qualitative game by Giorgos Anastasiadis. Dejan Cup was the MVP of the game and like last year, the Serbian is doing his best games in teh most crucial part of teh league.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		24-1
2. Sparta Praha		20-5
3. Opava B		18-7
4. Proton Zlin		15-9
5. Sokol H.Kralove		15-10
6. Sokol Prazsky		14-10
7. Trutnov		12-12
8. Liberec		11-13
9. Vysehrad		11-13
10. Benesov		10-14
11. Prostejov B		9-15
12. Litomerice		8-16
13. Mlada Boleslav		2-22
14. Kladno		1-23

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DENMARK

Ligaen Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News
First games of the Ligaen Quarterfinals were played last night. Home teams grabbed all four wins, but two of them needed an extra time to do it. The series are best-of-three and next meetings are scheduled for Monday.

Horsens IC - SISU 91-76
The game was mostly controlled by Horsens IC. SISU was better in fourth quarter 24-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded SISU 34-21 including a 29-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Horsens IC especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Slovenian guard Davor Sattler (185-86, agency: Global Sports Plaza) stepped up and scored 16 points and 9 assists for the winners and American forward Will Harris (198-86, college: Albany) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Five Horsens IC players scored in double figures. Horsens IC's coach Arnel Dedic used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side international point guard Mikael Nielsen (178-90) responded with 23 points and American forward Donald Rutherford (198-87, college: Catawba) scored 21 points.
Top scorers:
Horsens IC: D.Sattler 16+3reb+9ast, J.Larsen 16+3reb, W.Harris 15+6reb+1ast, M.Sakne 14+2reb+3ast, M.St.John 13+7reb+2ast, H.Schur 8+6reb+4ast
SISU: M.Nielsen 23+1reb+2ast, D.Rutherford 21+4reb+1ast, M.Dennis 14+6reb+3ast, D.Harder 9+2reb+5ast, M.Flowers 9+6reb+4ast, K.Nielsen 0

Svendborg - Vaerlose 99-91 OT
Vaerlose was tied at the half and again at the end of regular time. But they could not keep up in overtime eventually losing that period 9-17. Svendborg brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 5 rebounds. International guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Five Svendborg players scored in double figures. Forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) answered with 33 points (!!!) and 4 assists and American guard Reginald Delk (193-86, college: Louisville) added 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Vaerlose.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: C.Colman 25+5reb+3ast, M.Plannthin 21+11reb, M.Kingsley 18+5reb+1ast, A.Darboe 15+11reb+5ast, D.Vinson 11+14reb+3ast, N.Degn-Andersen 6+1reb
Vaerlose: M.Rasmussen 33+3reb+4ast, R.Delk 18+8reb+5ast, A.Karason 14+15reb+2ast, C.Sprinker 9+3reb+2ast, P.Moller 6+3reb+3ast, R.Larsen 4+2reb+1ast

Naestved - Horsholm 75-73 OT
The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 22-11 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 10-8. Naestved outrebounded Horsholm 43-28 including a 16-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. Horsholm was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American point guard Corin Henry (180-88, college: Tarleton St.) stepped up and scored 31 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and the former international power forward Peter Johansen (205-80) chipped in 19 points and 9 rebounds. At the losing side forward Alexander Bak (193-91) responded with 23 points and 7 rebounds and point guard Anders Haas (185-92) scored 8 points and 6 assists. Four Horsholm players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Naestved: C.Henry 31+6reb+7ast, P.Johansen 19+9reb, J.Glynn 6+16reb+1ast, N.Brasas 6+5reb, L.Hoirup 6, M.Frandsen 5+4reb
Horsholm: A.Bak 23+7reb+1ast, P.Hertz 14+2reb, J.Benjamin 11+5reb, B.Colas 10+6reb+1ast, A.Haas 8+3reb+6ast, V.Aleksic 4+2reb+1ast

Bakken - Aalborg 91-71
The game was mostly controlled by Bakken. Aalborg was better in fourth quarter 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bakken dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Aalborg's 34. American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) stepped up and scored 24 points and 4 assists for the winners and the former international center Chris Christoffersen (218-79, college: Oregon) chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American forward Tony Bishop (201-89, college: Texas St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and the other American import point guard Ryan White (177-88, college: Texas St.) scored 16 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Bakken: J.Alexander 24+4reb+4ast, A.Jakobsen 14+5ast, M.Dejworek 14+3reb, C.Christoffersen 12+6reb+2ast, N.Iversen 8+7reb+3ast, J.Jensen 7+1reb
Aalborg: T.Bishop 19+11reb+1ast, R.White 16+4reb+4ast, S.Sorensen 15+6reb+1ast, M.Christensen 11+3reb, S.Eleraky 4+1reb, R.Lauridsen 3+3reb+3ast

Play-out

Aabyhoj - Falcon 98-93 OT
Top scorers:
Aabyhoj: D.Curry 27+10reb+6ast, D.Jukic 20+12reb+2ast, D.Phillips 16+17reb+1ast, R.Soby Dalboge 16+2reb+1ast, A.Elsner 9+2reb+1ast, O.Sigurdsson 7+1reb+3ast
Falcon: K.Norsgaard 21+2reb+3ast, J.McFarlane 18+2reb+8ast, R.Fields 16+2reb+2ast, P.Ba 10+12reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 7+3reb+3ast, R.Norgaard 7+5reb

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		22-15
2. Springfield A.		22-16
3. Dakota W.		20-17
4. Erie Bay H.		20-17
5. Canton C.		20-18
6. Maine RC		16-23
7. Ft.Wayne MA		11-28
8. Sioux Falls S.		10-28
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		28-11
2. Austin T.		22-15
3. Rio Grande VV		22-17
4. Bakersfield J.		21-17
5. Texas L.		19-18
6. Reno B.		18-20
7. Tulsa 66ers		18-22
8. Idaho S.		16-23

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 24.5

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	24.5
2. Almond, Maine RC	23.8
3. Emmett, Reno B.	23.6
4. Dentmon, Austin T.	22.5
5. Harris, Canton C.	21.4
6. Costner, Los A.	20.9
7. Ubiles, Dakota W.	20.7
8. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	19.7
9. Mitchell, Sioux F.	19.6
10. Smith, Springfiel.	19.1

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 12.9

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	12.9
2. Dawson, Austin T.	10.3
3. Milligan, Canton C.	9.1
4. Criswell-L., Austi.	8.9
5. Williams, Texas L.	8.8
6. Foote, Springfield	8.6
7. Horner, Springfi.	8.4
8. Andrews, Los A.	8.3
9. Moore, Idaho S.	8.0
10. Gilder, Sioux F.	8.0

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. Wise, Bakersfield	6.3
4. Curry, Springfield	6.2
5. Baker, Dakota W.	6.1
6. Stinson, Iowa E.	6.0
7. Bailey, Idaho S.	5.9
8. Fortson, Los A.	5.9
9. Bozeman, Reno B.	5.8
10. Johnson, Austin	5.4

Steals Per Game

Dominique COLEMAN
  Sioux F.
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Coleman, Sioux F.	2.2
2. Hannah, Dakota W.	2.2
3. Fortson, Los A.	2.1
4. Curry, Springfield	1.9
5. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	1.9
6. Smith, Springfield	1.9
7. Stinson, Iowa E.	1.9
8. Owens, Tulsa 66ers	1.8
9. Bobbitt, Idaho S.	1.8
10. Dyson, Tulsa 66e.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Foster, Idaho S.	2.9
2. Williams, Texas L.	2.6
3. Saunders, Rio G.	2.4
4. Thomas, Los A.	2.3
5. Daniels, Erie B.	2.1
6. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.8
7. Hill, Maine RC	1.8
8. Dawson, Austin T.	1.7
9. Dove, Dakota W.	1.6
10. Benson, Sioux F.	1.6

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Austin T. - Sioux Falls S. 100-105
Despite another strong showing by Eric Dawson (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.), the Austin Toros fell to the Sioux Falls Skyforce 105-100 at Cedar Park Center Thursday night. The Skyforce jumped to an early lead with the Toros trailing 33-22 at the end of the first quarter. During the second quarter, the Toros went on an 11-0 run to cut the lead, 40-39. Luke Zeller, who was reacquired by the Toros today, helped propel the run by hitting two long jump shots. The Toros tied the game just before the half, 52-52. Julian Wright gave the Toros their first lead of the second half, 60-59, with a layup in the third quarter. After going back and forth, the Toros trailed going into the fourth, 75-72. The Toros took their first lead of the fourth, 82-80, off a mid-range shot from Da'Sean Butler. Five Toros scored in double digits with Eric Dawson leading the way recording a double-double of 12 rebounds and matched season high of 25 points. The Skyforce was led by Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's) with 34 points, Trey Gilder and Keith Benson both earned double-doubles scoring 20 points, 12 rebounds and 19 points, 11 rebounds respectively. The Toros (22-15) and Skyforce (10-28) meet again on Saturday, March 10 at 12pm at Cedar Park Center. *Courtesy of www.ksfy.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Maine RC 104-114
Morris Almond (6'6''-F/G-85, college: Rice) (37) and Kenny Hayes (6'2''-PG-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Miami, OH) (25) combined for 62 points to give the Red Claws the 114-104 win over the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Hayes added an impressive 15 rebounds and 6 assists. The first twelve minutes was an offensive showcase as the Red Claws had three of their players scored in double figures to give them 40 first quarter points. The second was more of the same as the Red Claws led 70-50 heading into the locker rooms at the half. The Mad Ants picked up the defense in the third and outscored the Red Claws 28-25 but they still trailed the Red Claws 78-95 going into the final period. In the fourth, the Mad Ants outscored the Red Claws 26-19 including a late 10 points from Cameron Jones but it was not enough and the Red Claws sailed to a victory. Behind Almond and Hayes' impressive performances, Lawrence Hill and Courntey Pigram added 15 apiece. Charles Garcia led the way for the Ants with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Jones finished with 18 and Anthony Goods finished with 17 off of the bench. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Springfield A. - Canton C. 101-106
The Hard to imagine, but the usually defensively-sound Springfield Armor let a 24-point lead slip away, falling 106-101 to the Canton Charge Thursday night at the MassMutual Center. The loss was the third straight for the Armor (21-16) and snapped the team's home win streak at seven games. A great start for the Armor was all but forgotten as the Charge rallied to win in the fourth, the game hinging on an offensive foul call against Armor guard Jerry Smith with 16 seconds to play. Dennis Horner led Springfield with 23 points and 14 rebounds, Hurdle scored 19 and Williams dropped in 18. Luke Harangody (6'7''-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) had 24 and Alan Anderson (6'6''-G/F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) 23 for Canton. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Dakota W. - Idaho S. 101-97
The Stampede outscored Dakota 33-25 in the fourth quarter but couldn't come all the way back in falling 101-97 in Bismarck, N.D. Mikki Moore and David Bailey (5'8''-PG-81, college: Loyola, IL) scored 22 points apiece for Idaho, which also got double-digit scoring games from Jordan Bailey (11), Paul Carter (6'9''-F-87, agency: Edge Sports, college: Ill.-Chicago) (11) and Antoine Walker (10). Reggie Larry led the Stampede with eight rebounds. Idaho plays three road games before coming home March 14. *Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Erie Bay H. - Maine RC 106-81
Rise and shine, Maine. The Erie BayHawks rudely awakened the Red Claws with a 106-81 thrashing Tuesday afternoon before an announced crowd of 5,035 at Tullio Arena 'You've got to take your medicine, and our medicine was we got our behinds kicked,' Red Claws coach Dave Leitao said. Starting its annual School Kids Jam game at 11 a.m., Erie (19-17) led by as many as 31 points in the second half. 'It's a great time for basketball,' center Jerome Jordan, who is on assignment from Erie's NBA hybrid affiliate, the New York Knicks, said with a grin. 'Fresh out of bed. Got the energy flowing. Ready to play.' The loss snapped a two-game winning streak for the Red Claws (15-23), who shot a shaky 3-of-14 from 3-point range and had only 11 assists. 'They beat us up and down the court,' Maine guard Kenny Hayes said. 'Rebounded. Hit open shots. Played defense. And we didn't know how to react.' The BayHawks, who would have the eighth and final spot if the D-League playoffs began today, are 4-1 in their seven-game homestand. Riding a season-best four-game winning streak, Erie returns to action Thursday against East Conference leader and defending D-League champion Iowa (22-14). 'I feel like we can play with anyone in this league,' BayHawks small forward Mychel Thompson said Thompson scored a game-high 22 as he shot 6-of-8 from 3-point range. 'I know I hit about five or six, but I didn't know how many,' Thompson said. 'I was just catching in rhythm, people were hitting me and I was open. I was able to get good looks.' Thompson, who was with the Cleveland Cavaliers before being waived in February, was 5-of-6 from deep in the first half. He had 17 points at the break. 'We allowed Mychel Thompson open looks, which nobody in the league should do,' Leitao said. Erie led 54-34 at the half. 'We should probably play all the games at 11 a.m. because we have not had good first halves this year,' Erie coach Jay Larranaga said. 'We talked about it after the last game and put a lot of pressure on ourselves to come out right away.' Thompson was one of six Erie players to score in double figures. Jordan had 19 points and 12 rebounds and guard D.J. Kennedy chipped in 16 points. 'They played well enough to beat our behind,' Leitao said. Point guard Donald Sloan nearly had a triple-double in his return after stints with the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Hornets. Sloan finished with 15 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. 'I had to come and make sure everybody got touches and everybody got involved,' he said. Erie shot 54.2 percent in the first quarter and led by as many as 19 points in the quarter. It's safe to say the early start time didn't bother the BayHawks. 'Basketball is basketball,' Jordan said. 'We've got a great group of guys. I'm pretty sure everybody went to bed fairly early and got some rest. We just came out here and just took care of business.' *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Tulsa 66ers - Idaho S. 94-87
Idaho notched wins in its two previous games at Tulsa this season, but was unable to win a third time as the 66ers defeated the Stampede 94-87 on Wednesday morning. Paul Carter had a game-high 21 points, but the Stampede (16-23) lost their second road game in a row. Tulsa (18-22) had six players score in double figures. Idaho plays two more road contests before returning to CenturyLink Arena on Wednesday to play Texas. *Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Leo Lyons traded to Dakota Wizards - by Eurobasket News
The Austin Toros have agreed on a three-team trade sending starting power forward Leo Criswell-Lyons (6'9''-F-87, college: Missouri) to the Dakota Wizards while receiving forward Josh Davis (6'8''-C/F-80, college: Wyoming) back in return.

It was also announced that the Wizards have moved their 2012 D-League second-round draft pick to the Springfield Armor completing the multiple-team deal.

Lyons, a member of the 2012 D-League West All-Stars, was averaging 16.2 points, 8.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 51.5% from the field and 31.5% from behind the arc in 26 games played this season for the Austin Toros.

Josh Davis, most recently of the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, has not seen any D-League action since the 2008-2009 season in which the 6-8, 235-pound forward garnered All-D League 2nd Team honors suiting up in 45 games with the Colorado 14ers.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

BayHawks game postponed because of poor court conditions - by Eurobasket News
The defending D-League champions didn't stop the Erie BayHawks Thursday night.

The floor did.

Head referee Matt Myers postponed Thursday's game against the Iowa Energy at Tullio Arena late in the first quarter because the floor was deemed unsafe.

'The condition of the court was deemed unplayable by both teams,' Myers said. 'We've postponed the game until further notice and will contact the league office and see what they want to do with it.'

The game was called at 8:57 p.m. after a delay of about 90 minutes.

'We've had some ongoing issues with the floor,' Erie team president Matt Bresee said. 'We have to get better at it between the (Erie County Convention Center Authority) in finding solutions to making it right.'

The BayHawks (19-17) are scheduled to play Reno (18-19) today at 7 p.m.

'We've got to play it here,' Erie coach James Larranaga said. 'I've got to believe we'll be able to have a safe court. I don't think that's too much to ask.'

The BayHawks are looking to reschedule Thursday's game. Bresee said it could be continued when it was called, which was 3 minutes, 29 seconds remaining in the first quarter.

Erie led 14-13.

The floor, which has ice under it for when the Erie Otters play, was sticky in spots and slippery in others.

At least four players slipped while the game was in play Thursday night.

'We're extremely disappointed for the fans, first and foremost,' Bresee said. 'You never want to turn people away who come out and see a game.'

'You could tell before the game started, the court was just real slick,' Erie shooting guard D.J. Kennedy said. 'Slippery. And it was sticky, too. It just wasn't safe. I was worried about injuries. That's the easiest way to get injured.'

Iowa point guard Curtis Stinson, the 2011 D-League most valuable player, nearly fell on the game's first possession.

'When I came off the screen, I started to flare and I almost tore my leg off,' Stinson said. 'I didn't think anything of it because that happens, but as we kept playing, Mike (Efevberha) slipped twice, Donald (Sloan) slipped once.'

After seeing his starting point guard -- Sloan -- slip, Larranaga started talking to the referees from the bench about the court conditions.

'That was pretty much it,' Sloan said.

The maintenance crew began cleaning the floor at 7:30 p.m.

Forty minutes later, both teams were brought out for warm-ups but were sent back to their respective locker rooms to give the maintenance crew one more try to clean it.

'It was still pretty much the same,' Sloan said.

At least 10 crew members tried to the clean the court, but the coaches and officials both concluded it was unsafe.

'We've got to get the Authority to have some solutions that we know are a sure way that the floor is going to be ready to go night in and night out,' Bresee said.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Cupes signs David Minaya - by Eurobasket News
David Minaya (198-G-89) got a pro deal in Dominican Republic. The American guard signed a contract with Cupes for rest of the SRT season. Minaya will make his debut with Cupes during the week. The player graduated at Liberty University recently. He had 12.5 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 29 games with his school. Minaya transferred to Liberty in 2008 from the Tennessee Tech University. He was red shirted one year due to NCAA rules. In 2010/11 season Minaya had 107 ppg and 3.2 rpg for Liberty. It was a nice improvement after 3.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg a year before that. Liberty was Big South Conference regular season runner-up in 2011. Two year before that they reached Tournament Semifinals.

Standings - LIDOBA

SRT Standings

1. Capitanes		3-0
2. Plaza		3-1
3. GUG		2-2
4. Cupes		1-2
5. CDP		1-2
6. Sameji		0-3

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

EL SALVADOR

Denver wins again - by Jaime Arevalo
Last week, Centro Educativo Denver triumphed in the so nameed 'Campeon de Campeones' tournment, the competition between all the the best teams of Salvadorean Federation Championships. Under coaches Ernesto Rodriguez and Alex Funes , Denver defeated in final game San Marcos, 84-75, even if this last team started very well, winning teh first rtwo quarters 19-11 and 23-16, respectively.
Led by Mauricio Lahud (176-PG-84) and Mario Quinonez, Denver came back during the second half, keeping the head in the score and eventually claiming the title.
With 20 points, Lahud was the best scorer at the winning side, followed by Quinonez with 16. Enrique Edwin Lopez (183-G/F-85) scored 20 in San Marcos, Salvador Bandek (181-G-78) assisted him adding 14. Mario Quinonez was awarded as tthe Final Game MVP

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. Tartu Ulikool		20-2
2. Kalev/Cramo		16-2
3. Tarvas		15-8
4. Rapla		13-10
5. TTU		10-12
6. Tln Kalev		10-15
7. Parnu		3-20
8. Valga		3-21

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valga
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.9

1. Strupovics, Valga	20.9
2. Raadik, Parnu	18.7
3. Soo, Rapla	17.4
4. Cipruss, Tarvas	17.3
5. Raley-Ross, Tln K.	17.3
6. Pilk, TTU	17.1
7. Raap, Parnu	16.3
8. Veideman, Tartu U.	15.6
9. Arnold, TTU	14.6
10. Hallik, Tarvas	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	10.3
2. Arnold, TTU	8.8
3. Cricelli, Valga	8.4
4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	8.2
5. Ringmets, Rapla	8.1
6. Raadik, Parnu	7.8
7. Blaus, Valga	7.8
8. Shaw, Tln Kalev	7.5
9. Allingu, Tartu U.	6.8
10. Amis, Tartu Uliko.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Cunda, Valga	4.5
2. Laane, Rapla	4.2
3. Kriisa, Tarvas	3.6
4. Raap, Parnu	3.5
5. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool	3.4
6. Keedus, TTU	3.4
7. Dorbek, Tarvas	3.3
8. Pilk, TTU	3.3
9. Karner, Parnu	2.8
10. Veideman, Tartu U.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

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

Blocks Per Game

Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	1.8
2. Raadik, Parnu	1.5
3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.4
4. Blaus, Valga	1.0
5. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	1.0
6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.7
7. Varbanov, Kalev/Cr.	0.7
8. Hallik, Tarvas	0.6
9. Ulyanko, Kalev/Cr.	0.5
10. Makke, TTU	0.5

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

FINLAND

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		26-9
2. Nilan Bisons		24-9
3. Pyrinto		23-11
4. Kauhajoki		21-13
5. ToPo		18-15
6. KTP		15-20
7. Salon Vilpas		14-20
8. LrNMKY		13-21
9. Korihait		12-22
10. Kouvot		11-21
11. Namika Lahti		9-25

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.6

1. Blue, KTP	22.6
2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	20.1
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.4
4. Holloway, Salon V.	19.0
5. Newson, Kataja	18.9
6. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	18.3
7. Durham, Salon Vilp.	18.3
8. Tiedeman, LrNM.	18.3
9. Griffin, ToPo	18.2
10. Brooks, Namika L.	18.2

Rebounds Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 13.2

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	13.2
2. Durham, Salon Vilp.	11.4
3. Blue, KTP	10.5
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.9
5. Williams, Pyrinto	9.1
6. Newson, Kataja	8.9
7. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.5
8. McDade, Nilan B.	8.3
9. Brown, Kouvot	7.8
10. Jordan, Kouvot	7.6

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Moore, Namika L.	5.1
2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	4.8
3. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.6
4. Haynes, LrNM.	4.4
5. Virtanen, Kataja	4.3
6. Williams, Pyrinto	4.2
7. Sarcevic, KTP	4.2
8. Walker, Kataja	3.8
9. Holloway, Salon V.	3.3
10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.2

Steals Per Game

Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Sten, Kataja	2.5
2. Moore, Korihait	2.3
3. Williams, Pyrinto	2.3
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.2
5. Williams, Pyrinto	1.9
6. Holloway, Salon V.	1.8
7. Haynes, LrNM.	1.8
8. Jordan, Kouvot	1.7
9. Newson, Kataja	1.6
10. Moore, Namika L.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.1
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.0
3. Blue, KTP	1.4
4. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	1.0
5. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.8
6. Lehtoranta, Kataja	0.8
7. Williams, Pyrinto	0.7
8. Hamm, LrNM.	0.7
9. Bell, KTP	0.7
10. McDade, Nilan B.	0.6

KORISLIIGA: KTP beat Kataja 105-87 - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 34-35: Two contests tonight. KTP (Kotka) lost this week Wednesday on the road vs # 11 Team YMCA Lahti 79-76, but tonight KTP beat # 1 Team Kataja (Joensuu) by 18 points 105-87 (49-33). So the basketball is round. KTP won the second quarter 28-14 and was shooting 15/30 (50%) from behind the arc. All starters were in double figures. Tim Blue (205-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) had a double-double 30pts/11rbs. Jukka Matinen (203-F-78) added 20 pts. B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: VCU) led Kataja (26-8) with 25 points. Kataja has lost three away games in a row and Bisons (Loimaa) is only one game behind.
UU-Korihait (Uusikaupunki) and YMCA Lappeenranta made their contest a thriller after 10 lead changes and seven ties. Visitor YMCA LPR won by one 70-71 (36-39). Jonathan Heard (198-G/F-86) missed the last shot, but led anyway the hosts with 17 points and eight rebounds. Tyler Tiedeman (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Boise St.) scored 19 pts for YMCA LPR (13-21). Lawrence Hamm (198-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) and DeAndre Haynes (187-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Kent St.) added 18+17 pts.
KTP - Kataja 105-87 (49-33). (Tim Blue 30/11, Jukka Matinen 20, Tony Crocker 19/5a - B.A.Walker 25, Sami Lehtoranta 19/11, Jared Newson 16. A: 1057).
UU-Korihait - YMCA LPR 70-71 (36-39). (Jonathan Heard 17/8, Nigel Moore 15, Mikko Jalonen 14 - Tyler Tiedeman 19, Lawrence Hamm 18/9, DeAndre Haynes 17/7a. A: 811).

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

FRANCE

French ProA round 20 best performance: Blake Schilb (by BasketStore) - by Eurobasket News

American swingman Blake Schilb (200-F/G-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Chalon, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
The 28-year old player was the main contributor (25 points, six rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Dijon (#9, 9-11) 84-77. It allowed Chalon to consolidate first place in the French ProA. Chalon have a solid 17-3 record. In the team's last game Schilb had a remarkable 63.6% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Chalon, through which he has constantly improved. Former Loyola University of Chicago star has very solid stats this year. Schilb is in league's top in points (8th best: 15.4ppg), assists (9th best: 4.8apg) and averages impressive 60.5% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old Nigerian Chinemelu Elonu (206-F/C-87) of Pau-Lacq-Orthez. Elonu had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 20 rebounds. It was enough for Pau-Lacq-Orthez to edge the higher-ranked Orleans (#4, 13-7) 83-78. Pau-Lacq-Orthez's 15th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-14 record. Elonu is a newcomer at Pau-Lacq-Orthez, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was former international center Alexis Ajinca (215-C-88, agency: Priority Sports) of Strasbourg (#10). Ajinca scored 27 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Strasbourg, leading his team to a 83-69 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Nanterre (#12, 8-12). The chances of Strasbourg ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 11 games, recording just nine victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ajinca could help Strasbourg to bring them higher in the standings. Ajinca has a very solid season. In 7 games in France he scored 13.6ppg. He also has 5.9rpg, 2.6bpg and FGP: 54.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Andre Harris (201-F/C-85) of Dijon - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Fabien Causeur (193-G-87) of Cholet - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Eric Chatfield (191-G-79) of Paris-Levallois - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists
7. John Cox (195-G-81) of Le Havre - 9 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists
8. Nicholas Pope (196-F/G-84) of Le Havre - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Brian Greene (204-F-81) of Orleans - 21 points and 6 rebounds
10. Kim Tillie (210-F-88) of ASVEL - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists

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

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Kaunisto, Blois	18.5
2. Bigote, Cognac	17.7
3. Pridotkas, Brest	17.1
4. Almanson, Challans	16.8
5. Bluntt, Orchy	16.6
6. Pearson, Angers B.	16.3
7. Petrovic, Orchy	16.3
8. Belser, Charleville	15.9
9. Thomas, Roche	15.8
10. Herard, Challans	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 12.1

1. Kaunisto, Blois	12.1
2. Jaiteh, CFBB	10.4
3. Caskill, Cognac	10.2
4. Pearson, Angers B.	8.5
5. Sanborn, Lievin	8.5
6. Avramovic, Chart.	8.2
7. Pridotkas, Brest	8.0
8. Toney, Charleville	7.9
9. Cabarkapa, Rueil	7.8
10. McClark, Clermont	7.7

Assists Per Game

Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.7
2. Calvez, Charleville	5.1
3. Ball, St Quentin	4.7
4. Daube, Le Puy	4.5
5. Brochard, Blois	4.5
6. Dessart, Lievin	4.5
7. Barbry, Orchy	4.5
8. Godin, Cognac	4.4
9. Tillon, Montbrison	4.4
10. Cortey, Clermont	4.3

Steals Per Game

Aurelien TOTO N''KOTE
  Roche
  (194-F-79)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Toto N''Kote, Roche	2.2
2. Calvez, Charleville	2.0
3. Pistre, Charleville	1.9
4. Bichard, St Quentin	1.8
5. Dessart, Lievin	1.8
6. Koundjia-S., Le Puy	1.7
7. Ball, St Quentin	1.7
8. Bigote, Cognac	1.6
9. Daube, Le Puy	1.6
10. Cretaux, Lievin	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Jacques ALINGUE
  Souffel
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Alingue, Souffel	1.7
2. N''Diaye, Souffel	1.6
3. Caskill, Cognac	1.5
4. Morin, CFBB	1.5
5. Sanborn, Lievin	1.4
6. Davis, Blois	1.2
7. Traore, Angers B.	1.2
8. Ipouck, Chartres	1.1
9. Diame, Rueil	1.1
10. Toney, Charleville	1.0

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Chalon		18-3
2. Gravelines		17-3
3. Paris-Levallois		14-6
4. Orleans		13-7
5. Nancy		13-7
6. Le Mans		12-8
7. ASVEL		10-10
8. Dijon		10-11
9. Strasbourg		9-11
10. Roanne		9-11
11. Cholet		9-11
12. Nanterre		8-12
13. Le Havre		6-14
14. Poitiers		6-15
15. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		6-15
16. Hyeres-Toulon		2-18

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

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

Standings - N1

NM1 Standings

1. St Quentin		18-5
2. Charleville		18-6
3. Orchy		17-7
4. Souffel		16-8
5. Cognac		16-9
6. Blois		16-9
7. Roche		16-9
8. Sorgues		14-10
9. Lievin		13-11
10. Challans		13-11
11. Brest		12-12
12. Angers BC 49		11-13
13. Chartres		10-14
14. Rueil		9-15
15. Clermont		8-17
16. Montbrison		4-20
17. Le Puy		4-20
18. CFBB		2-21

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 21.9

1. Chatfield, Paris-.	21.9
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	19.2
3. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.2
4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	16.8
5. Williams, Paris-.	16.6
6. Causeur, Cholet	16.6
7. Cox, Le Havre	15.8
8. Wise, Le Havre	15.1
9. Holland, Roanne	15.0
10. Morlende, Hyeres-.	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.6

1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	8.6
2. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.3
3. Akingbala, Nancy	7.7
4. Greer, Strasbourg	7.5
5. Aminu, Chalon	7.3
6. Allen, Strasbourg	7.2
7. Armstrong, AS.	7.2
8. Falker, Cholet	7.0
9. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	6.9
10. Vebobe, Cholet	6.8

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.6

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	7.6
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.8
3. Parker, AS.	6.3
4. Wise, Le Havre	5.8
5. Linehan, Nancy	5.4
6. Pellin, Orleans	5.3
7. Dixon, Dijon	5.0
8. Barrett, Roanne	4.9
9. Schilb, Chalon	4.7
10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.6

Steals Per Game

Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Albicy, Gravelines	2.5
2. Batum, Nancy	2.1
3. Linehan, Nancy	2.1
4. Riley, Nanterre	2.0
5. Melody, Dijon	2.0
6. Wise, Le Havre	1.9
7. Acker, Le Mans	1.8
8. Pellin, Orleans	1.8
9. Mendy, Pau-Lacq.	1.6
10. Fournier, Poitiers	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Ajinca, Strasbourg	2.6
2. Falker, Cholet	1.6
3. Gobert, Cholet	1.1
4. Akingbala, Nancy	1.1
5. Batum, Nancy	1.1
6. Hamilton, Paris-.	1.1
7. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.1
8. Issa, Gravelines	1.1
9. Nichols, Cholet	1.0
10. Williams, Paris-.	1.0

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Chris DAVIS
  Le Portel
  (195-F/G-80)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Davis, Le Portel	18.5
2. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
3. Siggers, Rouen	17.5
4. Denave, St Vallier	17.2
5. Paelay, Quimper	16.3
6. Wood, Evreux	16.3
7. Prowell, St Vallier	15.6
8. Brown, Maurienne	15.6
9. Monroe, Boulazac	15.5
10. Gay, Fos Ouest	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Massie, Limoges	11.8
2. Wood, Evreux	11.5
3. Monroe, Boulazac	9.5
4. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
5. Rossiter, Denain	9.3
6. Osby, Maurienne	9.3
7. Allen, Antibes	8.9
8. Barro, Bourg	8.6
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.5
10. Badiane, Nantes	8.3

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.3
2. Rowland, Evreux	5.7
3. Copeland, Bourg	5.3
4. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.3
5. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.2
6. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.0
7. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.0
8. Mouillard, Quimper	4.9
9. Denave, St Vallier	4.8
10. Choquet, Fos Oue.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. McCray, Boulogne	2.6
2. Charles, Nantes	2.6
3. Paelay, Quimper	2.1
4. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.1
5. Allen, Antibes	2.0
6. Flowers, Vichy	2.0
7. Eito, Vichy	1.8
8. Denave, St Vallier	1.8
9. Rowland, Evreux	1.8
10. Choquet, Fos Oue.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Moussa BADIANE
  Antibes
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Badiane, Antibes	2.1
2. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
3. Jefferson, Vichy	1.7
4. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
5. Osby, Maurienne	1.6
6. Ford, Bordeaux	1.1
7. Massie, Limoges	1.1
8. Prowell, St Vallier	0.9
9. Fields, Nantes	0.9
10. Dunn, Rouen	0.9

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

GERMANY

Assistant Coach Klaus Perwas gets Two Year Contract Extension From The Fraport Skyliners - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Fraport Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwas has never missed a playoff yet with the Skyliners and is looking not only for his fourth visit in May, but will have the chance in the next two years to reach the promised land as the club gave him a two year contract extension. 'For me it feels like my journey hasnt eded here yet. We were very successful in the last three years, were in the playoffs or Top 4, but didnt win anything. There is still someting open. With the perspective of a new arena in Frankfurt, some positive development could happen. I would be happy if I could be a part of the Fraport Skyliners in the new arena. The work with Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ) is also working. I can do my job and do my part', stressed Klaus Perwas . Skyliners head coach Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ) is also very happy about Perwass staying. 'He is one of the most important building blocks in the team, works very professional and always has a good attitude. His ideas and philosphies are similar to mine. He does a very good and important job in the preparation for our team. It is also important to keep continuity in important positions so philosohies are ket an an identity is held', added Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ). Skyliners sport director Kamil Novak is also thrilled to keep the German on board. 'We have a real expert in him. His high engagement to the team is shown how he is always avaliable for individual training with the players. He is very knowledgeable and gives continuity at the assistant coach position', stressed Kamil Novak .

Source: Fraport Skyliners

Can The Fraport Skyliners Steal A Win From Alba Berlin And The Three Musketeers? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Not being able to celebrate a basketball title in three years may not be a tragedy for teams like the Lti Giessen 46ers, Philadelphia 76ers or New York Knicks who have been treading through a desert thirsty for that title, but havent had the needed fortune of finding a camel or water hole as they havent really been expected to win anything recently. However but when you are a team like Alba Berlin that is the FC Bayern soccer version of German basketball not winning for so long is like the equivalent of Glen Close, Steve Buschemi, or Tom Cruise never winning an Oscar, Paris Hilton getting her bank account blocked from papa or champagne pipeline going dry or Blake Griffin being scolded by coach Vinny Del Negro never to be allowed to dunk again thus ruining the entertainment for millions of fans from seeing his dunks at you tube. Alba Berlin last won a title in 2009 winning the cup in Hamburg and in the last three years have not reached the cup TOP 4 and only one Beko BBL final. In order to win a title, a team doesnt only need strong players, but a functioning team. The best example is Bamberg. They continue to try to keep their players together and that has paid off successfully in the long run. I dont think the problem in Berlin was a lack of good players or coaching, but more having a team playing together. I cant really say or know what Alba Berlin should do to, because if I did , I am sure they would pay me a lot of money, but I know that they have to win games to get that next title, warned Stefan Schmidt. The pressure to win keeps sky rocketing, but CEO Marco Baldi is keeping a calm head and hasnt taken after colleague from FC Bayren Munich Uli Hoennes who can get redder when he is mad than a Maine lobster after it has been cooked. The pressure rises from season to season and I am sure anyone can imagine how much money is spent there each season for players to win titles. I am sure Marco Baldi has become red before, but I am not sure if that will really help their situation, stressed BBC Bayreuth center Stefan Schmidt. After not reaching the 2012 cup TOP 4 in Bonn after a bitter OT loss at home against the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig ex Skyliner musketeers Gordon Herbert, Derrick Mr ballerina Allen and Dashaun Mr road runner Wood have one more chance to win a title in June and continue to prepare and go for that quest by trying to get a win against their ex team Fraport Skyliners March 10th. I think that Mckinney and Tez want to beat Berlin more, because they want to show them that it was a mistake by leaving Frankfurt since Alba Belrin is favorite. But I hope that Mckinney wont leave his hot shooting in Bayreuth, joked Stefan Schmidt.

There was a time between 1996-2003 that the basketball world of Alba Berlin seemed as perfect as the Michael Jordan run with the Chicago Bulls, the seemingly always flawless face of Cindy Crawford even in her rise in age or the breathless scenery of the lake Geneva. In these 7 years Alba Berlin was able to win 10 German basketball titles, including 7 league titles in a row and three cup wins. Alba Berlin ruled the German basketball world and was on top of the world like Dirk Nowitzki currently is after winning his first NBA title, or 19 year old Borrusia Dortmund German Mario Gotze currently is by invitation of the media. However since 2003, the team that plays in the posh O-2 World arena has seemed to lost that magic touch as they have only been able to win 3 titles in the last seven years with the league title in 2008 and two cup wins 2006 and 2009. What have been the main problems? Did the team loose their hunger in 2003 which somehow has been transferred over to the next teams? The Beko BBL has become more competitive and athletic in the last 5 years, coaches have come and gone, and the player transfers have not always seemed to have fit and team chemistry was lacking as well. Despite being only a game away last season from winning their 9th title, Alba Berlin knows that in order not to get passed this season by a Bamberg and Munich, the club had to react and could have heightened their title chances in 2012 with the arrival of mastermind coach Gordon Herbert.

Last season, Alba Berlin rebounded well after not knowing how the coaching change from Luka Pavicevic to Muli Katzurin would end, but the club lost on the road to the always very strong Brose Baskets Bamberg in 5 games in the Beko BBL final. Alba Berlin had chances to win game 5, but some small mistakes and missed shots coupled with some big John Goldsberry three pointers washed out their hopes of bringing the championship back to the Spree. Muli Katzurin did a wonderful job taking over a squad in mid season changing the Pavicevic style and making the Albatros game more fast and mixing up the defensive sets. He led the team from a come from behind series win against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and a very satisfying win over the Deutsche Bank Skyliners winning 3 games on the foreign floor of the Ballsporthalle. Katzurin brought new life to guys like Bryce Taylor and Heiko Schaffartzik, but somehow despite him saving the season from a possible nightmare had he not stepped up to the helm in January, Alba Berlin was looking in a new direction with Gordon Herbert.

Alba Berlin had had success with Americans Julius Jenkins and Immanuel Mcelroy, but there is always a time for a change, just like when you give your apartment a new new look changing the colours of the living room walls. Alba Berlin did a gradual face lift bidding farewell to ex Beko BBL MVP Julius Jenkins, the best defensive player in the league Immanuel Mcelroy who had won a combined 5 titles in Berlin, 2010 Eurochallenge winner Taylor Rochestie, Serbs Tadijia Dragcevic, Miroslav Raduljica and Germanys leading title holder Patrick Femmerling. Alba Berlin kept a solid core of players with ballerina dancer Derrick Allen, Bryce Taylor whos dunk over Predrag Suput will remain in the heads of many from last seasons final series against Bamberg and a core of Germans including three point sharp shooter Heiko, Mrwhen you need a crazy three point bomb give me the ball please Schaffartzik, Sven Schultze, Yassin Idbihi, and Lucca Staiger.

Alba Berlin didnt waste anytime getting their most important order of business squared away as they hired Gordon Herbert very early this summer. Alba Berlin see Herbert as being the man to get Alba Berlin back on the title road and not getting run over by teams like Bamberg and Munich. This will be Herberts 5th season in the Beko BBL. He led Frankfurt to their first league title in 2004 and reached the cup final that year. In 2010, he was two points away to getting Frankfurt that 2nd league title as the Skyliners lost a bitter game 5 final in Bamberg. Last season, Frankfurt lost in 5 games to Alba Berlin. Herbert is known as getting the best out of his players, but also known in being able to build a strong and successful team even if talent and deepness is lacking. Now Herbert will have a type of new challenge as the talent will be about as abundant this season for the Canadian as there is with top Israel team Macabbi Tel Aviv. Now all eyes will be focused on Herbert to see how he will make an already very talented club even better.
Even after Alba Berlin had kicked out the Deutsche Bank Skyliners from the playoffs in their own living room, they still had no mercy as they stole Mr road runner DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) from the heart of the fans. Despite that Wood had signed a contract to stay with Frankfurt, he did put some clauses in so that he could leave the club. One of those clauses was that he would go where Gordon Herbert would go. A heart of a player can be as big as Mount Everest for a team, but about as often as the sun shines in the Costa De Sol in south Spain, the green numbered paper that rules the world mostly keeps the heart of a player more green than red. Wood who was the leagues MVP in 2011 playing 42 games: Score-1 (19.0ppg), 4.6rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 80.3%, will more than likely not be able to post stats like that again with alba Berlin. He will have a different role in Berlin as he will be surrounded by many scorers and not have the burden on his shoulders having to score as he often did in Frankfurt. The question will be how well can his ego get used to his new role, but he has stated that winning is his biggest priority and not scoring 20 points a game. The team brought in European experience with American Torin Francis, athletic ex NBA player Kyle Weaver and a touch of Serbian fire with Marko Simonovic. The team kept a lot of last years success intact with Mr ballerina Derrick Allen, Mr everything on the court and more Bryce Taylor, Heiko I can hit even from the Berlin TV tower Schaffartzik, inside monster Yassin Idbihi, sharpshooter Lucca Staiger and the glue that holds the team together German national player Sven Scultze.

However despite all this unending talent on board, Alba Berlin GOT out of the wrong side of the bed this season as they started with a less than satisfactory 2-2 record. They werent given a good role of the dice either getting their first three games on the road. They started with a heartbreaking 71-69 loss in Bremerhaven that probably had Herbert and Wood in long discussions after analyzing ways they could of won the game. Alba Berlin then creamed potential playoff team New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig 87-68, only to go to Phoenix Hagen the next week and get their second loss in a row there. Last season 37 points by Derrick Allen couldnt get a win and this season it was Marc Carter that shot out the lights as Alba Berlin lost again 98-91. They returned to the O-2 World arena for their first home game and got a pesky fight from the Walter Tigers Tuebingen as they stayed close, but the eight time Beko BBL champion closed out the game in style with a 20-5 run to win 76-56. Except for the high scoring game in Hagen, they have defended well in the other three games letting up an average of only 71 points per game. With a new coach, players and system, Alba Berlin is just figuring each other out in the early going not too mention the building pressure to win each season. Yea it is pressure winning wherever you are at at any level and yea they have more pressure cause the standard is higher in Berlin because of the tradition, but I think all of their players can handle it or else they wouldn't be there, stressed TBB Trier guard John Bynum. They then won nine games in a row including an easy 83-57 win in Frankfurt shot only 26% from the parking lot and were forced to 18 turnovers. In this big winning streak, they beat Oldenburg, Bamberg and Ulm at home and won in Munich. They then had their only weakness of the season going on a three game losing streak losing to Artland, Bonn and Wurzburg. The three game losing streak also took a toll on 2011 Beko BBL MVP DaShaun Wood. I have never experienced anything like that before, but one has to remember just how much I have played recently. We had games on the 18th, 20th, 23rd, 27th and 30th of December and the second, fifth and eighth of January. At the end of that game streak, it just showed that I was tired, expressed DaShaun Wood. Since the three game losing streak, they have a 8-1 record losing in Bayreuth, a game they let slip away. I think they will get stronger as the season goes along and will be a force in the playoffs, warned John Bynum.

Since the climatic semi final win over Alba Berlin in 2005, where guys like Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis led the then Opel Skyliners into the BBL final, Frankfurt has only a 9-15record against the Albatros, but have built installed a special albatross cage in the Ballsporthalle which has rewarded them with a 5-3 record. One of the biggest and most emotional wins in the last years was the 81-67 trouncing in January 2006 as it was the debut of ex Skyliner coach Charles Barton. It was only a shame that the team was unable to take this big win and grow off it as they won little more that season and had to win on the last day at home against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg to stay in the BBL. Some nice wins in the last years was the 74-58 win in 2008 as American Derrick Allen added 19 points and six rebounds and in 2009, they won 73-66 as ex Skyliner Lorenzo Gordon chipped in with 15 points and six rebounds. Last season, the two teams split the season series 1-1 as Alba Berlin held Frankfurt to 53 points in the Ballsporthalle and winning. Frankfurt returned to Berlin to win 76-70 as Derrick Allen led the team with 18 points. Frankfurt then surprisingly kicked out Alba Berlin in the playoffs 3-1 winning game four at home 69-58 as Derrick Allen had 26 points. In the first meeting last season, Alba Berlin escaped the O-2 World arena with a 81-77 win. Frankfurt led for 36 minutes before Alba Berlin put on the turbo and went on a 8-2 run which sparked the win. DaShaun Wood led all players with 32 points and Derrick Allen chipped in with 17 points for Alba Berlin. Alba Berlin shot 57% from the field and 44% from the parking lot, but Frankfurt had control of the boards 31-21. In the second meeting last season, Alba Berlin prevailed 79-70 as DaShaun Wood led Frankfurt with 18 points, seven rebounds and seven assists and ex Skyliner Derrick Allen had 18 points. Frankfurt lost in the 2011 Beko BBL semi finals 3-2 .

The Fraport Skyliners will be looking for revenge from their blow out loss at the start of the season and will be looking to snap their two game losing streak to the 8 time Beko BBL champion after losing game five in the semi finals last season 87-68 and their blow out loss at the start of the season 83-57 as DaShaun Wood came back to haunt his ex team getting 21 points and German national player Heiko Schaffartzik poured in 18 points. Michael Thompson added 14 points, but Frankfurt had a poor 18 turnovers while Alba Berlin had only seven turnovers. Alba Berlin is coming off an exciting 83-82 win at home against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven where they closed out the game with an 11-2 run and crazy Schaffartzik three point bombs. The Fraport Skyliners are coming off their biggest win of the season snapping their four game losing streak to Bamberg 75-68. Frankfurt knows what will be vital in winning on the road. We have to play good defense and rebound well. Wood is a great player that makes big plays. We will have to contain him as a team, stressed Quantez Robertson. German national player Tim Ohlbrecht had stressed after the Bamberg win that Frankfurt had only played well for 38 minutes. The extra two minutes will be important in Berlin. We have phases where we play as if we were were in a lull. We cant afford that, but need to keep energy for the whole game, warned Skyliner guard Devin Gibson. After the big win against Bamberg, Alba Berlin should be warned about the current spirited play by Frankfurt. We are coming together as a team. I dont want to sound cocky, but I feel that we have a chance to win where ever we play. If we can play like we did against Bamberg in Berlin, then we have good chances to win, warned Jacob Burtschi.

Alba Berlin is led by Kyle Weaver who is a 25 year old 198cm guard/forward from Beloit, Wisconsin. Since graduating from Washington St. (NCAA) in 2008, he has breathed NBA air most of the time except for some short D-league stays and ending last season with TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium). In his senior year at Washington State, he played 35 games: 12.2ppg, 5.3rpg, AssistsConf-4 (4.3apg), StealsConf-4 (1.7spg), FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 73.3%: Is the first player in Pac-10 history to record 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 400 assists, 175 steals and 75 blocked shots in a career. Finished collegiate career ranked second in assists in Washington State history with 465, third in steals with 188, seventh in blocked shots with 93 and 17th in scoring with 1,162 points. In his first three seasons as a professional basketball player he has played a total of 73 NBA games for The Oklahoma Thunder and Utah Jazz. Weaver shins with his great defensive play and anticipation skills and is a guy that does many things well including passing and displaying ferocity of attacking the boards. His perimeter shooting has improved since turning pro. Weaver could be one of the new stars of the Beko BBL this season. Last season, he played for Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA), only pre-season, then moved to Iowa Energy (D-League): 21 games: 16.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 83.5%, injured in Jan.'11, in Mar.'11 signed at Austin Toros (D-League, starting five): 9 games: 13.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.0%; in Apr.'11 signed a 10-Day contract with Utah Jazz (NBA): 5 games: 5.6ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 87.5%; later that month agreed terms with TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium-D1, starting five): 11 games: 7.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 64.7%

DaShaun Wood is a 26 year old 185cm point guard from Detroit, Michigan. He has natural leadership abilities, who directs teammates on the floor and takes the ball in clutch moments. Loves to go inside to score, challenging the big guys, but has also shooting range from behind the 3pts arch. Despite lack of size, he can be effective even at the defensive side. He played at Wright State from 2003-2007. He then had a superb rookie season for Tisettanta Cantu (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 38 games: Score-5 (16.9ppg), 3.0rpg, Assists-4 (3.3apg), 2.7spg, 2FGP:52.1%, 3PT-2 (42.8%), FT:77.4%. In his second season he played for : Benetton Treviso (Italy-SerieA), injured in Oct.'08 and was off for 2 months: Eurocup: 12 games: 5.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 87.5%; Italian League: 17 games: 7.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 70.4%. He sat out the next season due to injuries and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners took a gamble signing him in 2010, but it paid off. Wood who was the leagues MVP in 2011 playing 42 games: Score-1 (19.0ppg), 4.6rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 80.3%, will more than likely not be able to post stats like that again with alba Berlin. He will have a different role in Berlin as he will be surrounded by many scorers and not have the burden on his shoulders having to score as he often did in Frankfurt. The question will be how well can his ego get used to his new role, but he has stated that winning is his biggest priority and not scoring 20 points a game. Alba Berlin then got a versatile 4/5 man with Boston native Torin Francis who should be a solid complementary player to Yassin Idbihi at the center position. Francis is a 29 year old 210cm American from Boston. He is a a highly-skilled and gifted athlete with game-breaking ability, versatile all-around frontcourt player who plays both ends of the floor extremely well, has a physical offensive and defensive presence on the court and runs the floor extremely well for a player his size. He is explosive in the post, smart decision maker with the ball and an unselfish player who knows how to distribute the ball. This will be his 6th professional season as the Notre Dame alumnist has played in countries like Italy, Israel, Turkey and Greece. Last season, he played for Bornova Bld (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 13 games: 10.2ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 48.2%, FT: 61.1%; and in January 11 moved to Panellinios Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): Greek League: 16 games: 12.6ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 52.7%, FT: 68.8%; EuroCup: 6 games: 15.7ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 65.0%, FT: 72.7%. His only rap may be that he has never won a title at the professional ranks.

Derrick Allen is a 31 year 203cm power forward from Gadsen, Alabama that is playing his second season in Berlin. He is a rugged inside player who attacks the glass, will provide help on the boards, is a solid defender in the post, a competitor and hard worker, can score facing the basket and has shooting range to the foul line. He is playing his seventh season in Germany after playing two years in Karlsruhe, one season in Leverkusen and three years in Frankfurt. With the Deutsche Bank Skyliners, Allen reached the playoffs each season and lost a heart breaker fifth game in the 2010 BEKO BBL finals by two points. He played 148 games in his three years and never played a game where he dogged a play. Allen is searching for his first BEKO BBL title in Berlin. As 1/3 of Baldis angels, Derrick Allen will have the most zeal to win that title and do what it takes to get that hardware. Last season he played EuroCup: 11 games: 13.0ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 57.6%, FT: 80.6%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 5 games: 15.0ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 64.7%, FT: 56.3%; German Bundesliga: 49 games: 13.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP-3 (61.0%), FT: 78.7%. For the departure of Serb Tadijia Dragcevic, the team hauled in another talented Serb with Marko Simonovic who seem to be around on the basketball block as much as the buses on Madison avenue in New York city. Simonovic is a 24 year old 202cm forward that is a great athlete with enormous jumping ability and an attractive player with great three point shoot. He played for BC Buducnost Podgorica (Montenegro) the last three years and last season played Adriatic League: 27 games: 13.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 69.2%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 2 games: 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0spg. He may only be 24, but has vast experience for a player of his age having played for teams like Telindus BC Oostende (Belgium)and KK Hemofarm Vrsac. The Serbs in general for European basketball teams seem to be as exchangeable as the women on the side of George Clooney and with Simonovic it wont be any different as he will help Alba Berlin with his inside out game.

The team brought back Heiko Schaffartzik who is a 27 year old 182cm point guard who is a German National player who has been a BBL traveler who has played for many different BEKO BBL teams like Giessen, Oldenburg, Nurnberg, EnBW Ludwigsburg and Braunschweig. He had his big international breakthrough at the Euro Championships in 2009 averaging 12,7ppg, 2,0rpg, 3,8apg and shot 54% from the three point line. He shoots first and penetrates second. He is a great one on one player. His biggest weapon is his shooting as he loves the catch and pop and off the dribble shooting. He started the season with Turk telekom in Turkey, but never found his rhythm as he played 10 games averaging 3,8ppg, 1,6rpg and 2,3apg in 15 minutes per game. He had a strong playoff series against Frankfurt and last season played German League: 32 games: 4.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.8apg; EuroCup: 5 games: 6.2ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 66.7%. The team also got some insurance by bringing in 25 year old 196cm shooting guard Bryce Taylor last season who hails from San Diego, California. He is the son of former NBA player Brian Taylor. He is a great sharpshooter with an aggressive dribble drive and has a keen understanding of the game. He played at Oregon from 2004-2008. In his senior year at Oregon, he averaged 12.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3Pts: 38.2%, FT: 82.3% in 30 games. Three seasons ago, he turned professional and played in Italy for Premiata Montegranaro playing 30 games: and averaging 13.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 82.6%. In 2009-2010 in Bonn, he played 6 Eurocup games: 18.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 36.4%; German League: 34 games: 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 81.4%. In 2010, he played NBA Summer league for the Indiana Pacers. Last season for Alba Berlin Taylor played EuroCup: 11 games: 7.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 83.9%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 5 games: 0.8ppg; German League: 49 games: 7.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 76.0%.

The team brings back 28 year old 208cm forward/center Yassin Idbihi from Cologne is playing his second season in Berlin. He can score, but is not so fast, but has potent moves. He played at The University of Buffalo from 2003-2007 and finished as the schools fourth all time leading scorer with 1,514 points and the third all time leading rebounder with 844. He became the first player in school history to score 1,500 points and 800 rebounds. He played with the Cologne 99ers and had some experience playing in France for Limoges. In 2009-2010, he helped lead The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig into the BEKO BBL semi finals losing against The Brose Baskets Bamberg where he played games 39 games averaging 10.7ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%. Last season, he got better in the second half of the season playing German League: 43 games: 7.4ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.3%, FT: 73.4%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 4 games: 3.3ppg, 3.3rpg; EuroCup: 11 games: 7.0ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP-1 (71.4%), FT: 73.9%. Luka Staiger who is a 23 year old 196 cm shooting guard returns back for a third season after coming late in the season last year coming from the NCAA from Iowa. He started his basketball career for TSG Ehingen and played there from 2003-2007. He then departed over the big pond to the NCAA to Iowa where he played until 2010. He played 49 NCAA games for Iowa, but was unhappy about how he was being used on the court and decided to return to Germany. In 2009-2010, he played 7 BEKO BBL games averaging 3,3ppg. He got his start in the German national team in 2009 in Poland at the European championships and got more of a role this past summer at the World Championships in Turkey -10: 4 games: 7.3ppg, 1.0rpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 37.5%. He once scored 106 points as a 16 year old. Last season for Alba Berlin he played German League: 41 games: 3.7ppg, 1.1rpg; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 5 games: 2.4ppg; EuroCup: 11 games: 3.8ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.2apg, also a license to play for ALBA Berlin II (ProB): 2 games: 18.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.0spg. The team also brought back a familiar face with very experienced Sven Schultze who played many years for The German national team. He is a 33 year old 206cm power forward that was born in Bamberg. He is a very strong player with a deadly shot. With his size, he will post up the opponents small forwards and outrun the opponents power forwards. He is able to defend bigger players, but also agile enough to defend smaller ones. He can drop the three pointer in a variety of ways which gave Luka Pavicevic so many more ways of using him. He also is very dangerous on the fast break as he can with the speed of a point guard and then dunk. He started his career with Bamberg and then played for Alba Berlin from 1998-2002 winning four BEKO BBL titles. He then played for the Bayer Giants Leverkusen until 2005 before going south to Play in Italy in Milian, Udine and Biella. he also played shortly in Greece for Larissa. He finished the 2009-2010 season playing for Ferrara (Italy-SerieA): 13 games: 8.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 75.0%. He won a silver in Belgrad in 2005 at the European Championships and played at the Olympic games 2008 in Bejing. Last season for Alba Berlin he played EuroCup: 12 games: 4.7ppg, 2.3rpg; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 2 games: 3.5ppg, 1.5rpg; German League: 43 games: 3.1ppg, 1.3rpg.

Kevin Hamilton (BBC Bayreuth) Tyler Smith Is One Of The Most Versatile Players In The League - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 28 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York that is playing his first season for BBC Bayreuth. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. In 2009-2010, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. In 2010-2011 for Braunschweig, he averaged 9,oppg, 4,1rpg and 4,3apg. Last summer, he played in Puerto Rico for Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN) averaging 10,6ppg, 4,4rpg and 8,0apg. He spoke to Eurobasket before the game against TBB Trier March 10, 2012

After the bitter loss to the Fraport Skyliners recently, team picked it up in Gottingen winning. How big was this win keeping the minds of the players stable?

It was a huge game for us. It was a must win and although Gottingen made it real tough for us, we were able to come out with a victory which is the most important thing.

How big was the preformance of American Tyler Smith getting nine points, 15 rebounds and six assists? Was he the missing glue that wasnt there agaisnt Frankfurt?

He may have been. Tyler is one of the most versatile players in the league and not having him on the court hurts us tremendously. I am glad he is healthy again.

BBC Bayreuth is looking from game to game, but you play three of the next four games at home. How important will this stretch be?

Very Important

The next game is against TBB Trier? What is your memory of the 68-62 loss in Trier earlier in the season?

I remember that being coaches first game with us and falling short after coming back from a big deficit.

Coiuld Brandon Hunter give Maik Zirbes some tips about the NBA? Apparently the Los Angeles Lakers are interested in his services?

Im sure Brandon could. He has a lot of experience and I feel many big men could learn from him.

TBB Trier plays very good stable defense. What will be key in getting the win?

I think we have to find a way to get some easy baskets some how and contain their pick and roll offense.

What is your take on the Rajon Rondo trade rumors? Do the Boston Celtics really need to trade him?

No they dont

Who will be the next NBA point guard to score 50 + points after Deron Williams?

Derrick Rose.

Thanks Kev for the chat.

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

BBL Standings

1. Brose Baskets		21-3
2. Ratiopharm		20-5
3. ALBA		18-6
4. Art.Dragons		18-8
5. s.Oliver Baskets		16-9
6. B.Muenchen		14-11
7. EWE Baskets		13-12
8. NY Phantoms		13-12
9. Bremerhaven		13-12
10. Telekom Baskets		12-12
11. Fraport SKY		12-13
12. Walter Tigers		11-14
13. Bayreuth		10-15
14. TBB Trier		9-16
15. LTi 46ers		8-18
16. Phoenix Hagen		7-17
17. EnBW L'burg		7-18
18. Goettingen		2-24

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 16.5

1. Brown, EWE Baskets	16.5
2. Holston, Art.Drag.	15.9
3. Carter, Phoenix	15.6
4. Wood, ALBA	15.6
5. Ensminger, Teleko.	15.4
6. Swann, Ratiopharm	15.3
7. Jonusas, Phoenix	15.2
8. Peavy, Art.Dragons	14.5
9. Tucker, Brose B.	14.3
10. Bryant, Ratiopharm	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Bryant, Ratiopharm	9.5
2. Chubb, EWE Baskets	7.9
3. Leuer, Fraport SKY	7.8
4. Ensminger, Teleko.	7.8
5. Homan, B.Muenchen	7.1
6. Evans, Goettingen	7.1
7. Sykes, Goettingen	7.0
8. Davidson, Fraport	6.8
9. Zirbes, TBB Trier	6.8
10. Watts, Ratiopharm	6.7

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Jordan, Telekom	8.2
2. Holston, Art.Drag.	6.1
3. Brewer, Bremerha.	5.1
4. Wood, ALBA	5.0
5. Joyce, TBB Trier	5.0
6. Brown, EWE Baskets	4.8
7. Everett, Bremerha.	4.7
8. Hamann, B.Muenchen	4.7
9. Campbell, Walter T.	4.2
10. Bauscher, Goett.	3.9

Steals Per Game

Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Linhart, TBB Trier	1.8
2. Gibson, Fraport SKY	1.7
3. Holston, Art.Drag.	1.5
4. Kramer, s.Oliv.	1.5
5. Frazier, s.Oliv.	1.4
6. Redding, Walter T.	1.4
7. Dorris, EnBW L.	1.3
8. Bernard, LTi 46ers	1.3
9. Hasbrouck, EWE B.	1.3
10. Carter, Phoenix	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 2

1. Gaffney, Teleko.	2.0
2. Ibekwe, Bayreuth	1.8
3. Looby, EnBW L.	1.6
4. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.4
5. Davidson, Fraport	1.4
6. Bryant, Ratiopharm	1.3
7. Homan, B.Muenchen	1.3
8. King, Art.Dragons	1.2
9. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.2
10. Chubb, EWE Baske.	1.0

Dane Watts (ratipharm Ulm) Pregame Thoughts To Phoenix Hagen Game March 10th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He is playing his first season for ratiopharm Ulm. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. Last season for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May'11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against Phoenix Hagen March 10th.

How much could the good play early in the season pay off now since you have six of the last nine games on the road? How excited are you about the stretch run?

It is great to finish the season in front of our fans and not have long road trips away from family.

With only nine games to go and Bamberg losing to Frankfurt is ratiopharm Ulm continuing to take each game at a time and solidify position two or are there thoughts about going for the top position?

I dont know if Bamberg will lose that many in the last 9, we are going to control what we can and focus on our games. The standings will take care of themselves.

The next game is against Phoenix Hagen. What is your memory of the 86-72 win in the Kuhberg halle earlier in the season?

I remember it being the last game in the Kuhberg.

How dangerous can Phoenix Hagen be? They have beat Alba Berlin the last two years at home. Besides their potent offense, what else do you have to keep an eye on when playing them?

They have an aggressive press and shoot the 3 quickly.

Do you rather give Zygimantas Jonusas the step up jumper or make him work inside?

I would think we have the advantage inside with our size

What is your take on the Rajon Rondo trade rumors? Do the Boston Celtics really need to trade him?

I dont know, he has been ballin lately.

Who will be the next NBA point guard to score 50 + points after Deron Williams?

I dont know, he has had two monster games this year, one over here. Probably Deron again.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

24

Thanks Dane for the chat.

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GREECE

March's list of Greek Free agents - by Chris Mammides
4 weeks before the end of the Greek A1 league regular season, with the list of the free agents still being very striking and quite firm. A number of few transactions have been made but the list is still quite burly and indispensable. Eurobasket is presenting the revived list with some new essentials.

Here is the concentrated upshot of our research

In the Guard position:
Georgios Diamantopoulos (195-F-80)
Nikos Hatzivrettas (195-G-77)
Nicolas Blanas (183-PG-80, college: Toronto Uni.)
Fotis Lioutas (193-G-80, college: S.New Hampshire)
Milos Pavlisevic (196-SG-82)
Dimitrios Kalaitzidis (198-F/G-85)
Lazaros Seferidis (192-G-82)

In the forward position:
Nikos Theodorakos (202-F-89) went undrafted in the 2011 NBA Draft making him an Unrestricted FA.
Demitri Harris (198-SF-90, college: St.Marys)
Antonis Kesisoglou (206-F-91)
Luke Hristou (195-F-88)
Milos Sakota (203-F-84)
Alexis Bardas (190-F-81)
Marios Skamnakis (200-F-89)

In the center position:
Manolis Koukoulas (212-C-91)
Jacob Blankenship (207-C-90)
Miroslav Raicevic (208-C-81)
Giorgos Loupos (208-C-78)
Alfa Diallo Fansekas (212-C-92)

Greeks of Diaspora - by Chris Mammides
Another great performance by one of the most promising and top talents currently playing in the High School leagues, the Greek American Dean Danos (183-G-95) who is a natural Point Guard ended his last game with the amazing 30 points, 8 assists 30 points and 5 rebounds as his team Bishop Noll played against the team of Indiana.
Danos is a steady player and this season is his best ever, his nick name Pistol Pete (after the name of the ex NBA star Pete Maravich who happens to be the his favorite player together with John Stockton) was received after a game where at the age of 13 scored 49 points in a single game while he repeated himself as an 8 grader many times.
This is Danos, who is both a Maravich and a Stockton. He can shoot and score bucketfuls, above all he is a natural leader in and out of the court, and his current mission is more about setting up his team-mates.
After missing Noll's first two games with a knee injury, Danos is averaging a little less than 20 points a game (19.8ppg) for the second-ranked team in the state. Last year at Aurora Christian, Danos averaged 21 points and seven rebounds for a team that got to the semi state level in its tournament.
His older brother, Peter Danos, won an Illinois state title at Richards in 2008.
'I want to follow in his footsteps,' said Danos, who lives in Oak Lawn. 'Now I want to do the same thing in Indiana.'

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

HOLLAND

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

Lance JETER
  Leeuwarden
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Jeter, Leeuwarden	18.7
2. Sally, Rotterdam	18.1
3. Anderson, Weert	17.2
4. Hargrove, Nijmegen	16.6
5. Wesley, Den Bosch	15.6
6. Humphrey, Nijmegen	15.3
7. Boxley, Leiden	15.2
8. Wesby, Groningen	14.9
9. Acker, Nijmegen	14.8
10. Bell, Groningen	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Yamene COLEMAN
  Weert
  (206-C-86)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Coleman, Weert	9.2
2. Sanchez, Leeuw.	8.8
3. Robinson, Zwolle	7.3
4. Saaka, Zwolle	6.9
5. Humphrey, Nijmegen	6.9
6. Bekkering, Nijme.	6.8
7. Boxley, Leiden	6.7
8. Wesley, Den Bosch	6.6
9. Hargrove, Nijmegen	6.3
10. Oudendag, Rotte.	6.3

Assists Per Game

Frank TURNER
  Den Bosch
  (178-PG-88)
  Avg: 5

1. Turner, Den Bosch	5.0
2. Anderson, Weert	4.6
3. Harman, Weert	4.3
4. Acker, Nijmegen	3.8
5. Jeter, Leeuwarden	3.8
6. Slagter, Leiden	3.5
7. Wells, Zwolle	3.5
8. Fletcher, Weert	3.3
9. Jansen, Den Bosch	3.2
10. Huffman, Zwolle	3.0

Steals Per Game

Cameron WELLS
  Zwolle
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Wells, Zwolle	2.5
2. Gonzalvez, Den B.	2.5
3. Huffman, Zwolle	2.3
4. Harman, Weert	2.2
5. Turner, Den Bosch	2.0
6. Wesley, Den Bosch	2.0
7. de Jong, Leiden	1.7
8. Anderson, Weert	1.7
9. Wessels, Den Bosch	1.7
10. Jones, Rotterdam	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Kareem MADDOX
  Zwolle
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Maddox, Zwolle	1.6
2. Wyatt, Groningen	1.3
3. Boxley, Leiden	1.0
4. Wesley, Den Bosch	1.0
5. Bekkering, Nijme.	0.9
6. Minter, Weert	0.8
7. Zondervan, Zwolle	0.7
8. Hilliman, Leiden	0.7
9. Poels, Leeuwarden	0.7
10. Hulzebos, Zwolle	0.6

Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Standings

1. Groningen		18-5
2. Den Bosch		16-6
3. Leiden		15-5
4. Nijmegen		14-8
5. Zwolle		10-12
6. Leeuwarden		9-13
7. Weert		3-19
8. Rotterdam		3-20

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ICELAND

Express L. Round 19: Leader Grindavik loses to Thor Thorl - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in Express L. is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 3 rounds. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with defeat of the leader, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Top ranked Grindavik (17-2) recorded its second loss in Thorlakshofn on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by third ranked Thor Thorl (13-6) 79-69. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Grindavik. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Thor Thorl forced 20 Grindavik turnovers. American guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) fired 27 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. FYR Macedonian-Australian forward Blagoj Janev (203-84, college: New Hampshire) chipped in 20 points and 10 rebounds. American forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-87, college: Cleveland St., agency: Pro One Sports) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Grindavik's coach Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Thor Thorl have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Grindavik at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. Thor Thorl are looking forward to face Tindastoll (#7) in Sauoarkrokur in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Grindavik will play at home against Snaefell (#6) in Stykkisholmur and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in Njardvik. Eighth ranked Njardvik (9-10) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed Keflavik (12-7) 95-93 on Thursday evening. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Travis Holmes (193-86, college: VMI, agency: Strategic Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 41 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 6 assists (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). Cameron Echols contributed with 15 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Guard Charles Parker (193-85, college: Millersville) answered with 35 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds for Keflavik. Njardvik moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Tindastoll. Keflavik at the other side dropped to the third position with seven games lost. They share it with KR and Stjarnan. Njardvik will play against Fjolnir (#10) in Reykjavik in the next round. Keflavik will play at home against Stjarnan (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of second ranked Stjarnan (12-7) against ninth ranked IR (8-11) on Friday night. Host Stjarnan was defeated by IR in a tough game in Stjarnan 98-102. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Stjarnan. It was a great evening for Robert Jarvis who led his team to a victory scoring 36 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. At the losing side Renato Lindmets responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds. IR maintains ninth place with 8-11 record. Loser Stjarnan dropped to the third position with seven games lost. They share it with Keflavik and KR. IR will meet at home Haukar (#11) in the next round. Stjarnan will play against Keflavik (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Valur (0-19) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 97-74 loss to eleventh ranked Haukar (5-14) in Hafnarfjordur. It was an exceptional evening for Chavis Holmes who led the winners and scored 27 points and 6 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Haukar maintains eleventh place with 5-14 record. Valur lost their nineteenth game in a row. Newly promoted team still closes the standings. Haukar's next round opponent will be higher ranked IR (#9) in Reykjavik and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valur's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Reykjavik KR.
Important game to mention about took place in Stykkisholmur. Sixth ranked Snaefell (10-9) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 10th ranked Fjolnir (7-12) 89-86 on Friday evening. The game was also dominated by American players. Quincy Hankins-Cole fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Snaefell maintains sixth place with 10-9 record. Fjolnir lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the tenth position with 12 games lost. Snaefell will face league's leader Grindavik on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Njardvik (#8) in Njardvik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 19 Tindastoll was defeated by KR in Reykjavik 84-66.

Stjarnan - IR 98-102

Very important is a home loss of second ranked Stjarnan (12-7) against ninth ranked IR (8-11) on Friday night. Host Stjarnan was defeated by IR in a tough game in Stjarnan 98-102. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Stjarnan. Stjarnan trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 40-31 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 98-102 at the end of the game. IR shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. It was a great evening for American guard Robert Jarvis (180-87, college: ORU) who led his team to a victory scoring 36 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. His fellow American import forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) helped adding 25 points and 11 rebounds. At the losing side American-Estonian forward Renato Lindmets (198-84, college: Westfield St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds and American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 assists (made all of his eight free throws). Four IR and five Stjarnan players scored in double figures. IR maintains ninth place with 8-11 record. Loser Stjarnan dropped to the third position with seven games lost. They share it with Keflavik and KR. IR will meet at home Haukar (#11) in the next round. Stjarnan will play against Keflavik (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
IR: R.Jarvis 36+5reb+4ast, R.Alexander 25+11reb+2ast, N.Sovic 13+2reb+2ast, E.Onundarson 11+1reb+5ast, H.Fridriksson 6+4reb, K.Jonasson 6+3reb+2ast
Stjarnan: R.Lindmets 27+10reb+2ast, K.Cothran 20+3reb+3ast, J.Shouse 17+3reb+11ast, J.Zdravevski 13+3reb+2ast, F.Helgason 12+13reb+2ast, D.Jonsson 5+2reb+2ast

Snaefell - Fjolnir 89-86

Important game to mention about took place in Stykkisholmur. Sixth ranked Snaefell (10-9) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 10th ranked Fjolnir (7-12) 89-86 on Friday evening. Fjolnir trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 30-22 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 86-89 at the end of the game. Snaefell looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The game was also dominated by American players. Forward Quincy Hankins-Cole (203-90) fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. point guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) chipped in 26 points and 7 assists. Guard Calvin O'Neil (193-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) produced 31 points and forward Nathan Walkup (200-88, college: Texas A&M) added 16 points and 9 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Snaefell and five Fjolnir players scored in double figures. Snaefell maintains sixth place with 10-9 record. Fjolnir lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the tenth position with 12 games lost. Snaefell will face league's leader Grindavik on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Njardvik (#8) in Njardvik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Snaefell: M.Hall 26+1reb+7ast, Q.Hankins-Cole 18+13reb+6ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 17+7reb+3ast, S.Davidsson 15+3reb+1ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 6+6reb+1ast, H.Gunnarsson 4+1ast
Fjolnir: C.O'Neil 31+4reb+3ast, N.Walkup 16+9reb+3ast, A.Gudmundsson 15+2reb, H.Vilhjalmsson 11+5reb, J.Sverrisson 10+9reb+2ast, B.Rikhardsson 3+2reb

Thor Thorl - Grindavik 79-69

Top ranked Grindavik (17-2) recorded its second loss in Thorlakshofn on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by third ranked Thor Thorl (13-6) 79-69. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Grindavik. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Thor Thorl forced 20 Grindavik turnovers. American guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) fired 27 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. FYR Macedonian-Australian forward Blagoj Janev (203-84, college: New Hampshire) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. American forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-87, college: Cleveland St., agency: Pro One Sports) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) added 17 points respectively for lost side. Grindavik's coach Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Thor Thorl have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Grindavik at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. Thor Thorl are looking forward to face Tindastoll (#7) in Sauoarkrokur in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Grindavik will play at home against Snaefell (#6) in Stykkisholmur and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Thor Thorl: D.Govens 27+7reb+5ast, B.Janev 20+10reb, G.Jonsson 14+4reb+1ast, J.Hairston 7+10reb+7ast, B.Ragnarsson 4+3reb+2ast, G.Erlendsson 4+1reb
Grindavik: J.Bullock 18+7reb+1ast, G.Watson 17+4reb+3ast, S.Thorsteinsson 7+6reb, J.Olafsson 7+4reb+2ast, B.Brynjolfsson 6+1reb+1ast, R.Pettinella 5+4reb+2ast

KR - Tindastoll 84-66

There was no surprise in Reykjavik where 7th ranked Tindastoll (9-10) was defeated by fifth ranked KR (12-7) 84-66 on Thursday. The game without a history. KR led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. KR outrebounded Tindastoll 46-28 including a 35-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when KR made 7 blocks. American players dominated the game. Guard Joshua Brown (187-88, college: Towson) fired 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Power forward Robert Ferguson (203-85, college: St.Joseph's) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. KR's coach Hrafn Kristjansson used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Maurice Miller (187-88, college: Georgia Tech) produced 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Curtis Allen (193-86, college: ORU) added 14 points respectively for lost side. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Keflavik and Stjarnan. Loser Tindastoll keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. KR's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Reykjavik to the arena Valur.
Top scorers:
KR: J.Brown 21+7reb+4ast, D.Sencanski 19+2reb+3ast, R.Ferguson 18+9reb+2ast, H.Magnusson 9+1reb+1ast, F.Magnusson 6+11reb, K.Acox 4+5reb
Tindastoll: M.Miller 23+7reb+4ast, C.Allen 14+2reb, F.Hreinsson 8+3reb, T.Johannsson 6+6reb+2ast, H.Viggosson 5+5reb, H.Birgisson 5

Haukar - Valur 97-74

Bottom-ranked Valur (0-19) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 97-74 loss to eleventh ranked Haukar (5-14) in Hafnarfjordur. The game was mostly controlled by Haukar. Valur was better in fourth quarter 27-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists. Haukar brought some defensive toughness making 10 blocks. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Chavis Holmes (193, college: VMI) who led the winners and scored 27 points and 6 assists. His fellow American import forward Christopher Smith (198-82, college: St.Edward's) accounted for 22 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks for the winning side. American forward Marvin Jackson (195, college: St.Andrews, agency: Strategic Sports) came up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and Kristinn Olafsson (-88) added 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Valur in the defeat. Four Valur 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. Haukar maintains eleventh place with 5-14 record. Valur lost their nineteenth game in a row. Newly promoted team still closes the standings. Haukar's next round opponent will be higher ranked IR (#9) in Reykjavik and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valur's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Reykjavik KR.
Top scorers:
Haukar: C.Holmes 27+4reb+6ast, C.Smith 22+9reb+1ast, E.Barja 16+8reb+8ast, D.Hermannsson 9+7reb+2ast, H.Einarsson 8+6reb+1ast, H.Oskarsson 8+1reb+1ast
Valur: M.Jackson 18+11reb+1ast, K.Olafsson 17+7reb+4ast, B.Blondal 13+2reb+4ast, B.Petursson 12+8reb+1ast, R.Gylfason 6+2reb+4ast, H.Dicko 4+2reb+5ast

Njardvik - Keflavik 95-93

Important game to mention about took place in Njardvik. Eighth ranked Njardvik (9-10) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed Keflavik (12-7) 95-93 on Thursday evening. Keflavik was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 27-23 charge of Njardvik, which allowed them to win the game. They made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Travis Holmes (193-86, college: VMI, agency: Strategic Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 41 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 6 assists (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). Power forward Cameron Echols (203-81, college: Ball St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Four Njardvik players scored in double figures. Guard Charles Parker (193-85, college: Millersville) answered with 35 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and forward Jarryd Cole (200-88, college: Iowa) added 25 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Keflavik. Njardvik moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Tindastoll. Keflavik at the other side dropped to the third position with seven games lost. They share it with KR and Stjarnan. Njardvik will play against Fjolnir (#10) in Reykjavik in the next round. Keflavik will play at home against Stjarnan (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Njardvik: T.Holmes 41+12reb+6ast, M.Baginski 15+1reb, C.Echols 15+15reb+2ast, E.Fridriksson 10+2reb+6ast, O.Jonsson 9+1reb+1ast, O.Petursson 4
Keflavik: C.Parker 35+8reb+3ast, J.Cole 25+8reb, A.Jonsson 19+3reb+7ast, H.Halldorsson 5+8reb+1ast, M.Gunnarsson 5+2reb+7ast, V.Valsson 3+3ast

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Grindavik		17-2
2. Thor Thorl		13-6
3. Stjarnan		12-7
4. KR		12-7
5. Keflavik		12-7
6. Snaefell		10-9
7. Tindastoll		9-10
8. Njardvik		9-10
9. IR		8-11
10. Fjolnir		7-12
11. Haukar		5-14
12. Valur		0-19

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Robert JARVIS
  IR
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 23.8

1. Jarvis, IR	23.8
2. Holmes, Njardvik	23.6
3. Govens, Thor Thorl	23.3
4. Echols, Njardvik	23.1
5. Dagostino, Keflavik	22.9
6. Shuler, Haukar	22.7
7. Walkup, Fjolnir	22.4
8. Johnson, Valur	22.0
9. Bullock, Grindavik	21.8
10. Tairu, KR	21.4

Rebounds Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 14.9

1. Hairston, Thor T.	14.9
2. Hankins-Cole, Snae.	13.1
3. Echols, Njardvik	11.7
4. Smith, Haukar	11.3
5. Ringgold, Thor Tho.	11.3
6. Tratnik, Valur	10.4
7. Bullock, Grindavik	10.2
8. Walkup, Fjolnir	10.2
9. Shuler, Haukar	10.0
10. Hampton, Tindasto.	9.9

Assists Per Game

Justin SHOUSE
  Stjarnan
  (180-G-81)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Shouse, Stjarnan	6.9
2. Miller, Tindastoll	6.5
3. Watson, Grindavik	6.4
4. Hall, Snaefell	5.9
5. Pauline, Haukar	5.4
6. Dagostino, Keflavik	4.8
7. Brown, KR	4.6
8. Fridriksson, Njard.	4.6
9. Haraldsson, Haukar	4.6
10. O''Neil, Fjolnir	4.5

Steals Per Game

Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Holmes, Njardvik	2.9
2. Cothran, Stjarnan	2.7
3. Brown, KR	2.6
4. Hall, Snaefell	2.6
5. Shuler, Haukar	2.5
6. Shouse, Stjarnan	2.4
7. Parker, Keflavik	2.3
8. Allen, Tindastoll	2.3
9. Gunnarsson, Kefla.	2.2
10. Miller, Tindastoll	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Hairston, Thor T.	4.7
2. Smith, Haukar	3.5
3. Hugee, Valur	2.3
4. Tratnik, Valur	2.2
5. Hampton, Tindastoll	1.3
6. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.3
7. Tratnik, Tindastoll	1.3
8. Pettinella, Grinda.	1.1
9. Holmes, Njardvik	1.1
10. Ragnarsson, Fjoln.	1.1

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

ISRAEL

Israelis Win All-Star Game, Simhon Inks 3-Ball Comp, Buchbinder's Dunk Champ - by David Pick
It might have been the lack of any kind of defensive effort or maybe the fact that he played against his own coach, or simply his potential exploding, however, there's no clear explanation to how Hapoel Jerusalem's forward Elishay Kadir won All-Star Game MVP honors leading Team Israel to back-to-back victories over Team Foreigners (113:109), scoring 40 points on 14/16 shooting from the field, 4/5 buckets from three and grabbing 13 rebounds.

3-Ball Competition

Ashkelon's local hero Amit Simhon dominated the 3-ball competition with ease. Yuval Naimy (12), Dion Dowell (12), David Blu (13) and Yahu Orland (13) failed to make it out the first round, while Ron Lewis (14) advanced to the finals against Sihmon (18), who won 12-9 in a close shootout after going 0-11 between stations. The women's league's Ambrosia Anderson qualified to the king-of-kings round (14), but only nailed 9 points before Simhon took the hardwood. With the assistance of 2,500 chanting fans including teammates Dwayne Mitchell, Marco Killingsworth and Niv Berkowitz from the sidelines, Simhon dominated the competition with 16 final points.

Dunk Contest

Despite impressive dunk attempts by Sean Labanowski, Alex Tyus and Adrian Banks (last year's Dunk Camp), it was Bnei Hasharon's rookie Roi Buchbinder and Rishon's leaper Brandon Bowman, who showed immense athletic abilities on route to the dunk contest finals round. Bowman's final attempt was impressive earning 29 points from the judges (who never dunked their entire pro-careers), but Buchbinder, who jumped over teammate Tweety Carter in the second round, was on his Blake Griffin vehicle mode, jumping over his assistant coach's Triumph Herald 1960 Cabriolet Classic for a perfect 30 score.

All-Star Game Recap

Both squads seemed to agree on playing no defense allowing Maccabi Tel-Aviv's Richard Hendrix and Lior Eliyahu to shoot three balls (?). Tweety Carter and Dwayne Mitchell proved to be the worse alley-oop duo ever while Meir Tapiro found Sylven Landesberg for easy fast break dunks, while Kadir finished the first quarter with 16-points and Team Israel with a 36-34 lead.

In the second frame, Eliyahu kept shooting his ugly but efficient one-hand floater, Kadir collected a few buckets but Paul Delaney, Josh Carter, Tweety Carter and Dwayne Mitchell were heating it up from the land of deep, but still found themselves down 62:59 at intermission.

Israel pulled ahead 77-70, but Bowman was eager to make up for losing the Dunk Contest, showing his bunnies while collaborating with Banks for some high flying points. All-Star host Dwayne Mitchell was looking to win the game's MVP, tying things up at 83-83, but one of Meir Tapiro's game high 10 dimes found Orland for a trey, 86-85.

A hyped Foreign Team shifted gears in the fourth, locked down their defense and pulled ahead 99-94 with 4-minutes remaining. Yuval Naimy answered by banking a three ball of glass and Landesberg's jam tied things up again at 105-105. Tapiro and Eliyahu connected for a 2-point Israeli lead, Mitchell's attempt from down town went in-and-out and Team Israel prevailed 113-109.

All Star Rosters

Team Foreigners: Head Coaches Dan Shamir and Sharon Drucker. Richard Hendrix, Romeo Travis, Bryant Dunston, Dwayne Mitchell, Marco Killingsworth, Brandon Bowman, Josh Carter, Paul Delaney, Adrian Banks, Tweety Carter and Jermaine Jackson.

Team Israel: Head Coaches Efi Barenboim and Eric Alfasi. Lior Eliyahu, Yuval Naimy, Elishay Kadir, Niv Berkowitz, Amit Simhon, Nitzan Hanochi, Meir Tapiro, Ezequiel Skverer, Yahu Orland, Isaac Rosfelt and Sylven Landesberg.

Omri Casspi - top Israeli player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing Israeli players, who play currently abroad.

Omri Casspi

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international swingman Omri Casspi (204-88), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Cleveland Cavaliers (14-23) to beat the Boston Celtics (20-18) despite his good performance on Tuesday. Casspi scored 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 23 minutes on the court. But the Cleveland Cavaliers were edged 86-83 on the road by the Celtics. It was Cavaliers'' sixth consecutive loss in a row. This season Casspi averages: 7.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 48.2%, 3FGP: 33.0% and FT: 62.7%. He is in the roster of the Israeli senior national team.

Yotam Halperin

#2. Number two best Israeli player abroad this week is an international guard Yotam Halperin (196-84). He was not able to help Spartak St.Petersburg (4-12) in their game against Lokomotiv (7-5) in the Russian PBL. Halperin scored only 4 points and added 4 passes in 23 minutes. Spartak St.Petersburg was defeated 79-67 in Kuban by the higher-ranked Lokomotiv (#4). It was Spartak St.Petersburg''s third consecutive loss in a row. Halperin is currently third on the list of best passers. His overall stats this season are: 9.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.7apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 58.3%(28-48), 3FGP: 30.4% and FT: 89.2%. Halperin is currently a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Afik Nissim

#3. Third place goes to an international point guard Afik Nissim (180-81, agency: Beo Basket). He was not able to secure a victory for Krka (6-17) in their game against Zvezda (10-13) in the Adriatic League. Nissim recorded only 4 points and added 3 passes. The 13th-placed Krka Novo Mesto lost 78-82 in Beograd to the higher-ranked (#10) Zvezda in the group A of Adriatic League. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Adriatic League Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Nissim is currently fifth on the league''s list of best passers. This year his overall stats are: 8.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.2apg, 2FGP: 45.2%, 3FGP: 28.6% and FT: 88.0% in the nine games he played so far. Nissim has a dual citizenship: Israeli and French. He is also a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Yaniv Green

#4. Power forward Yaniv Green (206-80, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) couldn''t help Banca Tercas (7-16) in their game against Air Avellino (12-11) in the Italian SerieA. He scored 6 points and had 4 steals. Banca Tercas Teramo lost 63-75 in Avellino to the much higher-ranked (#9) Air Avellino. It was Banca Tercas'' fourth consecutive loss in a row. It''s Green''s first season with the team. This year Green''s total stats are: 4.1ppg and 2.2rpg in the 20 games. He is also in the roster of the Israeli national team.

Gal Mekel

   #5. International point guard Gal Mekel (192-88, college: Wichita St.) couldn''t help Benetton Treviso (3-3) in their game against Lietuvos rytas (4-2) in the Eurocup. Mekel scored only 4 points in 14 minutes. Benetton Treviso (#3) was defeated 80-74 in Vilnius by the second-ranked Lietuvos rytas in the group L of Eurocup. The Top 16 already ended in the Eurocup. Mekel has averaged so far 4.0ppg, 1.6rpg and 2.0apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish. Mekel is also Israeli national team player.

There are also few other players with good stats last week, who all have never played for any of Israeli national teams, but who have Israeli nationality:

   #1. Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) was not able to help Atenas (15-13) in their game against Boca Juniors (11-17) in the Argentinian LigaA. Sucatzky scored 9 points. But Atenas Cordoba was edged 78-77 on the road by the lower-ranked (#13) Boca Juniors. It was Atenas'' third consecutive loss in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. It''s Sucatzky''s first season with the team. Sucatzky is currently sixth on the list of best passers. This year his overall stats are: 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.9apg in the 41 games he played so far. Sucatzky has a dual citizenship: Israeli and Argentinian. Despite his Israeli passport, Sucatzky previously played for the Argentinian national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Israeli team.

   #2. Jason Thomas (191-G-82, college: American) led Boras Basket to a victory against the closely-ranked 08 Stockholm (11-16) 91-71 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. Thomas scored 8 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 21 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Boras Basket (20-14) is placed fourth in the Basketligan. It was his team''s third consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Thomas has relatively good stats this season: 11.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Thomas used to play for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan in Israeli league.

Other top Israeli players, who play abroad:

Robert Rothbart (217-C-86) plays for Union Olimpija in Slovenian Telemach League
Oded Brandwein (188-G-88) plays for Kotwica in Polish PLK
Chanan Colman (191-G-84) plays for Svendborg in Danish Ligaen
Ram Elias-Pour (208-C-93) plays for Zwolle in Dutch Eredivisie
Guy Aud (182-G-89) plays for Licher Baeren in German ProB
Shawn Weinstein (186-G-85) plays for Barako Bull in Filipino PBA
Or Sela (180-G-84) plays for Charlottenburg in German Regionalliga
Aner Levron (192-G-84) plays for TuS Makkabi Frankfurt in German 2.Regionalliga

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

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ITALY

stats leader

Points Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.7

1. Musso, Napoli	19.7
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	17.1
3. Portannese, Torino	16.3
4. Ferrarese, Castell.	15.4
5. Prandin, Casalp.	15.2
6. Benevelli, Orlandi.	14.6
7. Mei, Comsum.it SI	14.5
8. Tessitori, Comsum..	14.5
9. Poltroneri, Perugia	14.4
10. Pazzi, Trento	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.9

1. Rossi, Chieti	12.9
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.6
3. Borra, Treviglio	8.3
4. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.2
5. Gandini, Trieste	8.2
6. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.1
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	8.1
8. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	7.9
9. Iannuzzi, Ferentino	7.7
10. Raminelli, Castel.	7.4

Assists Per Game

Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Bertolazzi, Omegna	4.3
2. Musso, Napoli	4.0
3. Circosta, Anagni	3.9
4. Stanic, Fabriano	3.6
5. Guarino, Ferentino	3.4
6. Santolamazza, Ana.	3.2
7. Vico, Matera	3.1
8. Parente, Torino	3.0
9. Ferrarese, Castell.	2.9
10. Ruggiero, Bari	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Iardella, Fabriano	3.1
2. Bertolazzi, Omegna	3.1
3. Maggio, Pavia	3.0
4. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
5. Musso, Napoli	2.8
6. Rivali, Santarcang.	2.8
7. Rossi, Chieti	2.8
8. Portannese, Torino	2.8
9. Cazzaniga, Pavia	2.7
10. Truccolo, Perugia	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.8
2. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.7
3. Borra, Treviglio	1.5
4. Pascolo, Trento	1.1
5. Gandini, Trieste	1.1
6. Candido, San Seve.	1.1
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	1.0
8. Cazzaniga, Pavia	1.0
9. Raminelli, Castell.	0.9
10. Cotani, Castellet.	0.9

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trieste		19-9
2. Trento		19-9
3. Perugia		12-15
4. Santarcangelo		10-18
5. Firenze		8-20
6. Comsum.it SI		8-20
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		25-4
2. Torino		18-11
3. Treviglio		17-11
4. Casalpusterlengo		17-11
5. Pavia		14-15
6. Castelletto		10-18
Div.South-East
1. Recanati		15-12
2. Chieti		15-13
3. Bari		15-13
4. San Severo		12-16
5. Fabriano		8-19
6. Ruvo		3-25
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		24-5
2. Orlandina		17-11
3. Ferentino		16-11
4. Latina Basket		13-15
5. Matera		11-16
6. Anagni		10-17

Best players of Italian SerieA round 24 - by Eurobasket News
American Doron Perkins (188-PG-83) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Bennet Cantu and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 28-year old playmaker had a double-double of 20 points and eleven rebounds, while his team crushed Otto Caserta (#11, 10-12) with 17-point margin 75-58. Bennet Cantu is placed at 2nd position in Italian SerieA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Bennet Cantu will need more victories to improve their 14-8 record. Perkins just recently signed at Bennet Cantu, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Doron Perkins averages just after three games 13.7ppg, 6.0rpg and 4.3apg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old Serbian power forward Tadija Dragicevic (206-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) of Angelico BI. Dragicevic impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Angelico BI cruised to a 83-75 relatively comfortable win over the higher-ranked Umana Venezia (#5, 13-8). This victory allowed Angelico BI to move up to 10th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-12 record. Dragicevic is a newcomer at Angelico BI and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Slovenian Jurica Golemac (209-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) of Sidigas AV (#9). Golemac scored 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Despite Golemac's great performance Sidigas AV lost 65-96 to the lower-ranked Novipiu CM (#17, 6-17). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Sidigas AV needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 11 lost games. Golemac has a very solid season. In 23 games in Italy he scored 11.6ppg. He also has 4.9rpg and FGP: 52.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marcus Goree (201-F-77) of Benetton TV - 13 points and 10 rebounds
5. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85) of Montepaschi - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Ricky Minard (196-F/G-82) of Novipiu CM - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Jarvis Varnado (206-F-88) of Acea Roma - 14 points and 10 rebounds
8. Mustafa Shakur (193-G-84) of Novipiu CM - 10 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists
9. Tautvydas Lydeka (208-C/F-83) of Scavolini PS - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Marko Milic (201-F-77) of Vanoli CR - 21 points and 9 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)

Marco Belinelli - top Italian player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
We bring you last week''s top performances from Italians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Marco Belinelli

   #1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international guard Marco Belinelli (196-86), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the New Orleans Hornets (9-30) to beat the Toronto Raptors (13-26) despite his very good performance on Wednesday. Belinelli was the top scorer with 20 points. He also added 7 rebounds and dished 3 assists (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line) in 40 minutes on the court. But the New Orleans Hornets were defeated 95-84 on the road by the Raptors. It was Hornets'' third consecutive loss in a row. Belinelli has relatively good stats this season: 11.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 45.8%, 3FGP: 35.4% and FT: 77.4%. He is in the roster of the Italian senior national team.

There are also few other players with good stats last week, who all have never played for any of Italian national teams, but who have Italian nationality:

   #1. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) was the major contributor in a Regal FC Barcelona''s victory against the closely-ranked Maccabi T-A (3-3) 70-67 in the Euroleague last Wednesday. Huertas scored 10 points and added 3 passes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group H. Regal FC Barcelona (6-0) is placed first. So far his team won all six games in the Top 16. His team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. And that game will be critical. This year Huertas averages: 8.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.3apg and 1.1spg in the 16 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Brazilian and Italian as he used to play in Italy. Despite Huertas'' Italian passport, he currently plays for the Brazilian national team and is not eligible to play for the Italian team.

   #2. Mauricio Aguiar (197-F-83, agency: Players Group) led Hebraica to a victory over the sixth-ranked Wanderers (2-8) 98-73 in the Uruguayan LUB last Monday. Aguiar was MVP of the game. He recorded 16 points in only a mere 14 minutes. Hebraica Macabi (9-1) is placed first in Serie 1 group. It was his team''s ninth consecutive victory in a row. Aguiar''s team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And now that game is very crucial. Aguiar has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 17.1ppg, 2.8rpg and 2.7apg. Aguiar is another player who holds two passports: Italian and Uruguayan as he used to play in Italy. Despite his Italian passport, Aguiar previously played for the Uruguayan national team and probably cannot be called to the Italian team.

   #3. Alejandro Muro (187-G-74, agency: Players Group) contributed to an overtime Aguada''s victory against the closely-ranked Defensor (6-4) 112-111 in the Uruguayan LUB last Tuesday. He recorded 18 points and added 5 passes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group Serie 2. Atletico Aguada (8-2) is placed first. It was his team''s seventh consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. Muro is currently sixth on the league''s list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this year: 13.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.9apg and 1.3spg in the 38 games. Muro has both Italian and Uruguayan nationalities as he used to play in Italy. Despite his Italian passport, Muro previously played for the Uruguayan national team.

   #4. Ryan Zamroz (191-G-87, agency: JEMsports, college: Master''s) contributed to a Boras Basket''s victory against the closely-ranked 08 Stockholm (11-16) 91-71 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He scored 18 points in 31 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only Zamroz''s third season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Boras Basket (20-14) is placed fourth in the Basketligan. It was his team''s third consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This season Zamroz has very high stats. He averages: 16.0ppg, 2.1rpg and 2.1apg. Zamroz is a naturalized American. However he has never played in Italy.

   #5. Cristopher Mortellaro (206-F/C-82, college: Drury) was not able to help Baloncesto Leon (12-13) in their game against UB La Palma (17-9) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) despite his very good performance on Friday. Mortellaro was the second best scorer with 16 points. He also added 4 rebounds (was perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line). But Baloncesto Leon lost 76-82 on the road to the much higher-ranked (#3) UB La Palma. This year Mortellaro has relatively solid stats: 10.9ppg and 7.5rpg in the 26 games. He is a naturalized American. Mortellaro used to play for Sicc BPA Jesi in Italian league.

   #6. Samuel Cricelli (200-F-85, agency: JEMsports, college: Caldwell) helped Liverpool Mersey Tigers win their game against the closely-ranked Durham Wildcats (5-12) 79-68 in the British BBL last Sunday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 15 rebounds in 31 minutes. This season Cricelli averages: 9.8ppg, 8.8rpg, 1.4apg and 1.4spg. He also holds two passports: Italian and British.

   #7. Anthony Dobbins (194-G-81, college: Richmond) helped Poitiers win their game against the eighth-ranked Chorale de Roanne (9-11) 71-67 in the French ProA last Saturday. Dobbins scored 6 points and added 3 passes. This year Dobbins averages: 7.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.6apg and 2.0spg in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Dobbins used to play for Banca Nuova Trapani in Italian league.

   #8. Ryan Pettinella (206-F/C-84, college: Cincinnati) helped Grindavik win their game against the closely-ranked KR (13-12) 87-85 in the Icelandic Express League last Friday. He scored 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 14 minutes. This season Pettinella averages: 5.7ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.8apg and 1.3bpg. He is a naturalized American. Pettinella used to play for Premiata Montegranaro in Italian league.

   #9. Davor Barovic (211-C-90) was not able to help Branik (10-9) in their game against Postojna (13-5) in the Slovenian D2 (second division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. He had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds. His team was badly defeated 103-86. Barovic is currently first on the league''s list of best blockers. This year he averages: 8.3ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.1bpg in the 16 games. Barovic has dual citizenship: Italian and Slovenian. Despite his Italian passport, Barovic previously played for the Slovenian U20 national team.

   #10. Federico Bavosi (184-PG-81) helped River Andorra win their game against the sixth-ranked Leyma Basquet (10-7) 65-52 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Saturday. He recorded 6 points, 4 assists and 3 steals in 34 minutes. Bavosi is currently first on the league''s list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 5.5apg and 1.6spg. Bavosi holds both Uruguayan and Italian passports.

Serie C Regionale Campania - Round 22 Results - by Crazy

SERIE C REGIONALE CAMPANIA - ROUND 22 RESULTS

GROUP A:
Basket Baiano - Basket Capua: 61-78
(B: Iannaccone 20; C: Jalloh 33)

Telese - Virtus Matera: 49-85
(T: Veccia 17; VM: Francesco Albanese 26, Guido German (196-F-83) 12)

Cala Moresca - Stabia: 65-74
(CM: Giovanni Canzonieri (202-C-75) 16; S: Campanile 19)

Barra - Scafati: 60-76
(B: Marra 21; S: Catapano 17)

Partenope - Maddaloni: 55-85
(P: Foa 16; M: Njegos Visnjic (199-F-79) 17)

Pielle Matera - Arzano: 51-54
(P: Radovic 12; A: Pasquale Barbato 19)

Standings:

Maddaloni 44 (22-0), Scafati 32 (16-6), Stabia 28 (14-8), Cala Moresca 26 (13-9), Pielle Matera 26 (13-9), Arzano 22 (11-11), Capua 22 (11-11), Virtus Matera 20 (10-12), Partenope 20 (10-12), Telese 16 (8-14), Barra 8 (4-18), Baiano 0 (0-22)

GROUP B:
Meomartini - Cercola: 83-71
(M: Gallaro 27, Accettola 21)

Senise - Solofra: 84-55
(Se: Palazzo 19, Cristian Femminini (204-C-74) 17; So: Nigro 13)

Casaurea - Battipaglia: 89-53
(C: Fontanella 24, Cortese 22; B: La Sala 23)

Savoia - S.Maria: 64-49

Casavatore - Nola: 63-73
(C: Aprea 13, Matarazzo 13; N: Russelli 19)

Standings:

Senise 40 (20-0), Savoia 28 (14-6), S.Maria 26 (13-7), Meomartini 24 (12-8), Casaurea 24 (12-8), Mugnano 20 (10-10), Cercola 18 (9-11), Casavatore 18 (9-11), Solofra 12 (6-14), Nola 8 (4-16), Battipaglia 2 (1-19)

Scoring Leaders:

1) Njegos Visnjic (Maddaloni) 23.4 points per game;

2) Cesare Accettola (Meomartini) 22.9 ppg;

3) Andrija Djukanovic (205-PF-89) (Telese) 19.9 ppg;
4) Dominik Kos (198-G/F-87) (Senise) 19.7 ppg;

5) Emilio Barbaro (180-PG-92) (Baiano) 18.4 ppg.

<<>><<>>

Christian Villani's triple-double lands him Nazionale A Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
Christian Villani (200-F/G-82) had an amazing evening in the last round for Castelletto and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Nazionale A Player of the Week award for round 29.
The 29-year old swingman recorded a triple-double of 16 points addeding also ten rebounds and eleven assists, while his team beat Comsum.it SI (#6, 8-20) 87-76. Castelletto maintains the 6th position in Italian Nazionale A. Castelletto is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 10-18 record. Villani just recently signed at Castelletto and it was his first game, where he immediately became new team's leader.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 22-year old guard Marco Portannese (192-G-89, agency: Players Group) of second-ranked Torino. Portannese impressed basketball fans with 38 points and 8 rebounds. Bad luck as Torino lost that game 96-105 to slightly higher-ranked Omegna (#1, 25-4). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Torino still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 18-11 record is not bad at all. Portannese is a newcomer at Torino and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.3ppg (#3). He also registered 6.7 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Argentinian Diego Corral (205-C-86, agency: Players Group) of Anagni (#6). Corral scored 20 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Corral's great performance Anagni lost 68-76 to the higher-ranked Napoli (#1, 24-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Anagni not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 17 games, recording just ten victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Corral could try to bring Anagni's a little bit higher in the standings. Corral has a very solid season. In 27 games in Italy he scored 12.0ppg. He also has 7.2rpg and FGP: 60.8%. Diego Corral has also Italian passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Paolo Rotondo (205-F/C-89) of Napoli - 20 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Emanuele Rossi (208-C-82) of Chieti - 18 points and 17 rebounds
6. Roberto Feliciangeli (203-F-74) of Chieti - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-F/C-91) of Perugia - 20 points and 10 rebounds
8. Andrea Quarisa (202-F/C-92) of Latina Basket - 9 points and 19 rebounds
9. Pierpaolo Picazio (193-G-79) of Omegna - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Federico Bellina (205-C-79) of Firenze - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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IVORY COAST

Mamadi Diane - top Ivorian player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing Ivorian players, who play currently abroad.

Mamadi Diane

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international swingman Mamadi Diane (196-86, college: Virginia). Diane led his Latvian team Ventspils to a victory against the closely-ranked Chorale de Roanne (3-3) 94-92 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. He scored 13 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group I. BK Ventspils (4-2) is placed first. It was his team''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. Diane''s team will play only one more game in the EuroChallenge Top 16. And that game will be critical. Diane has relatively good stats this year: 14.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.8apg, 2FGP: 43.9%, 3FGP: 45.5% and FT: 70.4% in the six games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Guinean and Ivorian. Diane is in the roster of the Ivorian senior national team.

Pape-Philippe Amagou

#2. Number two best Ivorian player abroad this week is former international guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, agency: Beo Basket), who plays in the French ProA. He could not help Sluc Nancy (13-7) to beat STB Le Havre (6-14). Amagou scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 29 minutes. Sluc Nancy Basket Pro was crushed 91-61 on the road by the much lower-ranked STB Le Havre (#13). This season Amagou averages: 9.6ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 51.7%, 3FGP: 37.7% and FT: 82.9%. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Despite Amagou played previously for the French U20 national team, he played also for the Ivorian national team in 2010.

Jonathan Kale

#3. Third place goes to an international forward Jonathan Kale (203-85, college: Providence). Kale was the major contributor in a Lleida Basquet''s victory against the 13th-ranked Caceres 2016 (12-14) 69-65 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. He scored 15 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 24 minutes; not bad, considering it''s only Kale''s third season in pro basketball. CE CIP Lleida Basquetbol (16-10) is placed fourth in the LEB Gold. This season Kale has relatively solid stats: 11.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 2FGP: 59.7%(120-201) and FT: 65.2%. He has both American and Ivorian nationalities. Kale is also a member of the Ivorian senior national team. However he has never played in Ivory Coast.

Mohamed Kone

#4. Center Mohamed Kone (211-81, college: Valparaiso) was not able to help Meridiano Alicante (13-10) in their game against Blusens Monbus (7-16) in the Spanish ACB. Kone did not beat the league record on Sunday evening. He scored only 3 points, had 5 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Lucentum Alicante was edged 64-63 in Santoago de Comp by the much lower-ranked (#15) Blusens Monbus. It was Meridiano Alicante''s fourth consecutive loss in a row. It''s Kone''s first season with the team. This year Kone''s overall stats are: 3.8ppg and 3.1rpg in the 22 games. He also holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Kone is also in the roster of the Ivorian national team.

Mouloukou Diabate

#5. International point guard Mouloukou Diabate (183-87) was not able to secure a victory for Chorale de Roanne (9-11) in their game against Poitiers (6-14) in the French ProA. He scored 6 points and added 5 passes in 26 minutes. Chorale de Roanne Basket was defeated 71-67 on the opponent court by the lower-ranked Poitiers (#14). Diabate''s total stats this season are: 5.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.6apg and 1.4spg. He has dual citizenship: Ivorian and French. Diabate is also Ivorian national team player.

Wilfrid Aka

#6. An experienced swingman Wilfrid Aka (192-79) contributed to a JA Vichy''s surprising victory against the 11th-ranked JL Bourg (11-13) 77-70 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday. He scored 19 points. JA Vichy Val d''Allier Auvergne basket (5-19) is placed second from the bottom (#18) in the ProB. This year Aka''s total stats are: 8.3ppg, 3.3rpg and 1.3apg in the 23 games. He is a former international player as he played for the Ivorian senior team three years ago.

Herve Toure

#7. Former international forward Herve Toure (202-82) couldn''t help Blancos de Rueda (5-17) in their game against Caja Laboral (17-6) in the Spanish ACB. Toure scored 5 points in 12 minutes. The bottom-ranked Blancos de Rueda Valladolid was edged 67-65 in Vitoria by the much higher-ranked Caja Laboral (#3). It was Blancos de Rueda''s sixth consecutive loss in a row. Toure is currently fifth on the league''s list of best blockers. He has averaged so far 9.9ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.4bpg. Toure used to play for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Mickael Toti

#8. Point guard Mickael Toti (181-87) helped Saint Vallier win their game against the closely-ranked Bordeaux (12-12) 84-78 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday. Toti scored 7 points. Saint Vallier Basket Drome (11-13) is placed ninth in the ProB. They ended the series of seven consecutive loses. Toti has averaged so far 3.0ppg, 1.2rpg and 1.7apg in the 23 games. He is also Ivorian national team player.

Ibrahim Cisse

#9. Former international swingman Ibrahim Cisse (188-84) couldn''t help Pavia (14-15) in their game against Comsum.it SI (8-20) in the Italian Nazionale A (third division). Cisse recorded 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 26 minutes. The fifth-placed Paul Mitchell Pavia was badly defeated 89-71 in Siena by the lower-ranked Comsum.it SI (#6) in the North-West Division. Cisse has averaged so far 5.9ppg, 4.8rpg and 2.4spg. He used to play for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Frejus Zerbo

   #10. Center Frejus Zerbo (205-89) couldn''t help Limoges CSP Elite (19-5) in their game against Denain Voltaire (10-14) in the French ProB (second division). Zerbo cannot count Friday''s game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. Limoges CSP Elite lost 85-90 in Denain to the much lower-ranked (#13) Voltaire. It was Limoges CSP Elite''s first loss after nine consecutive victories. Zerbo has averaged so far 2.2ppg and 2.9rpg in the 18 games. He is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Ivorian senior national team.

There are also few other players with good stats last week, who all have never played for any of Ivorian national teams, but who have Ivorian nationality:

   #1. Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida) led Zastal ZG to a victory over the closely-ranked Asseco Prokom (1-1) 79-68 in the Polish PLK last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Hodge scored 28 points (!!!) and grabbed 4 rebounds in 37 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only his third season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group A. Zastal Zielona Gora (2-0) is placed first. Hodge belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #1 and also on the list of best passers (second place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hodge averages: 17.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 6.1apg and 1.4spg. He has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and Puerto Rican.

   #2. Alain Koffi (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket) was not able to help Le Mans (12-8) in their game against Paris-Levallois (14-6) in the French ProA despite his good performance on Saturday. Koffi scored 10 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. But Le Mans Sarthe Basket lost 78-85 on the road to the higher-ranked (#3) Paris-Levallois. This year Koffi''s overall stats are: 7.3ppg and 3.8rpg in the nine games he played so far. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Despite Koffi''s Ivorian nationality, he previously played for the French national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Ivorian team.

   #3. Kafil Eyitayo (201-F) managed to help Concordia University in a victory against the Citadines (7-9) 77-47 in a derby game in the Canadian university league CIS last Saturday. He recorded 5 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group Quebec League. The Concordia University has a very solid 14-2 record this season. It was Concordia University''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. Eyitayo has been at the team for four years. Eyitayo has averaged so far 3.6ppg and 4.3rpg in the 18 games.

   #4. Mohamed Toure (189-G-92) contributed to Omegna''s victory against the closely-ranked Treviglio (17-11) 81-71 in the Italian Nazionale A (third division) last Saturday. He recorded 6 points in only 12 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Division North-West. Paffoni Omegna (25-4) is placed first in North-West Division. Toure has averaged so far 4.8ppg, 1.3rpg and 1.1spg. He has both Ivorian and Italian nationalities.

   #5. Armand Anebo (196-F-89) contributed to a Leeds Carnegie''s victory against the league outsiderWestminster Warriors (2-16) 67-62 in the British EBL (second division) last Saturday. Anebo scored only 4 points, had 9 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 26 minutes. Leeds Carnegie (2-12) is placed eighth in the EBL. Anebo has averaged so far 7.3ppg and 7.3rpg.

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JAMAICA

Roy Hibbert - top Jamaican player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
We bring you last week''s top performances from Jamaicans who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Roy Hibbert

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international center Roy Hibbert (218-86, college: Georgetown). He led his USA team Indiana Pacers to a victory against the Golden State Warriors (15-21) 102-78 in the NBA on Tuesday night. Hibbert scored 12 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 20 minutes on the court. The Indiana Pacers have a solid 23-14 record this season. It''s Hibbert''s fourth year with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 13.1ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 50.5% and FT: 67.7%. Hibbert is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Hibbert played also for the Jamaican national team in 2010. However he has never played in Jamaica.

Samardo Samuels

#2. The second best performer abroad this week is former international power forward Samardo Samuels (206-89, college: Louisville), who plays in the NBA. Samuels could not help the Cleveland Cavaliers (14-23) to beat the Chicago Bulls (33-9). He scored 6 points in only 11 minutes. The Cleveland Cavaliers (14-23) were crushed 112-91 on the road by the Bulls. It was Cavaliers'' sixth consecutive loss in a row. It''s Samuels'' first season with the team. This year Samuels averages: 4.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 2FGP: 38.3% and FT: 71.2%. He played for the Jamaican senior national team three years ago.

Kevin Young

#3. Third place goes to former international center Kevin Young (206-84, college: Missouri). Young contributed to an Aishin Sea Horses'' victory against the closely-ranked Panasonic Trians (20-16) 81-72 in the Japanese JBL last Friday. He had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 11 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Aishin Sea Horses (27-9) are placed first in the JBL. It was his team''s fifth consecutive victory in a row. This year Young''s overall stats are: 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 2FGP: 56.3%(117-208) and FT: 61.2% in the 35 games he played so far. He played for the Jamaican national team in 2006.

Akeem Scott

   #4. Point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point) was not able to help Mornar Bar (15-2) in their game against ABS Primorje (4-13) in the Montenegrin 1A. Scott scored 9 points. But the league leader KK Mornar Basket Bar lost 88-92 in Herceg Novi to the much lower-ranked (#9) ABS Primorje. They ended the series of eight consecutive victories. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Scott is currently second on the list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.5apg and 2.6spg in the 15 games. Scott is a naturalized American. He is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. He is also in the roster of the Jamaican national team. Strangely Scott has never played in Jamaica.

There are also few other players with good stats last week, who all have never played for any of Jamaican national teams, but who have Jamaican nationality:

   #1. Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) led Quebradillas to a victory over the league outsider Caciques (0-4) 94-82 in the Puerto Rican BSN in Friday night''s game. Williams was MVP of the game. He recorded 19 points and added 7 assists. Pirates de Quebradillas (3-0) is placed first in the BSN. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Williams belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #6 and also on the list of best passers (fourth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Williams averages: 21.3ppg, 3.7rpg and 5.0apg in the three games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Williams has never played in Jamaica.

   #2. Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina). Despite his very good performance the fourth-placed BK JIP Pardubice (21-9) was edged 70-69 on the road by the lower-ranked BC Kolin (#5) in the A1 group. his team was edged 70-69. He was the second best scorer with 16 points. Muirhead also added 7 rebounds in 32 minutes. It''s Muirhead''s first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 11.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg. Muirhead has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Jamaican.

   #3. Adrian Uter (201-F/C-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Hofstra) contributed to a Maccabi Rishon''s victory against the eighth-ranked Elitzur Netanya (7-11) 80-65 in the Israeli Premier League on Monday night. He scored 10 points, had 4 boards, handed out 4 passes and blocked 2 shots. Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (10-7) is placed fourth in the Premier League. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Uter is currently third on the league''s list of best blockers. He has very reliable stats this year: 14.1ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2.0bpg and 1.6spg in the 17 games. Uter is a naturalized American. Strangely he has never played in Jamaica.

   #4. Sherman Gay (201-PF-82, college: Loyola Mary) was the main contributor in a Fos Ouest''s victory against the 12th-ranked Olympique Antibes (10-14) 70-64 in the French ProB (second division) on Friday night. Gay was MVP of the game. He scored 16 points, had 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 31 minutes. Fos Ouest Provence Basket (16-8) is placed fourth in the ProB. Gay belongs to league''s best blockers and is ranked #2. This season he has very high stats. Gay averages: 15.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg and 1.7bpg. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Gay has never played in Jamaica.

   #5. Hugh Robinson (202-C-83) was the major contributor in a Brahe Basket''s victory against the fifth-ranked Srbija (11-9) 95-88 in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) last Sunday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 10 rebounds. Robinson also added 2 blocks in 26 minutes. Brahe Basket Husqvarna (13-8) is placed fourth in South group. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Robinson is ranked third on the list of the best blockers in the league. This season he has very high stats. Robinson averages: 16.8ppg, 9.2rpg and 2.0bpg.

   #6. Richard Anderson (199-F-77) helped his Canadian team Halifax Rainmen win their game against the Quebec Kebs (22-14) 127-75 in the NBL Canada on Sunday night. He scored 10 points. Anderson has very impressive stats this year: 16.8ppg, 9.2rpg and 2.0bpg in the 21 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Jamaican and Canadian. Despite Anderson''s Jamaican nationality, he previously played for the Canadian national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Jamaican team.

   #7. Omari Johnson (205-F, college: Oregon St.) helped his Canadian team Oshawa Power edge the Summerside Storm (12-24) 103-102 in the NBL Canada in Friday night''s game. Johnson scored 8 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, passed 7 assists and added 3 blocks in 39 minutes. This season he has very high stats. Johnson averages: 16.8ppg, 9.2rpg and 2.0bpg. He is a naturalized American.

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JORDAN

Standings - Premier League

Premier League Standings

1. Kofer Yoba		8-0
2. ASU		6-1
3. Orthodox		6-2
4. Al Riyadi		5-2
5. Al Wehdat		3-5
6. College SC		2-6
7. Al Jalil		1-7
8. Al Ashrafiyah		0-8

JPL Round 8 (Regular Season) : Orthodox Back to the Track, Kofer Yoba keeps on Leading - by Omar Shafaamri
College 40 - 69 Orthodox

(Q1:9-22 / Q2:10-10 / Q3:7-14 / Q4:14-23)

College:
4. Ahmad Al-Sokkari - 2 Points / 2 assists / 3 steals ... (in 15min.)
5. Anan Al-Momani - 4 Points / 3 Rebounds / 1 steal ... (in 25min.)
6. Robeen Abu-Lail - 4 Points / 1 rebound / 1 assist / 1 steal ... (in 20min.)
7. Riyad Aesh - 4 Points / 2 rebounds / 1 steal ... (in 20min.)
8. Qais Weld-Ali - 5 Points / 2 rebounds / 1 assist ... (in 20min.)
9. Thaer Abu-Khadra - 0 Points / 3 rebounds / 2 steals ... (in 20min.)
10. Omar Darweesh - 3 Points / 2 rebounds ... (in 15min.)
11. Mohammad Lasawi - 2 Points / 3 rebounds ... (in 10min.)
12. Abdullatif Al-Qadoumi - Did not play
13. Ahmad Kanaan - 10 Points ... (in 25min.)
14. Ibrahim Maswadeh - 6 Points (1 Three-points) / 4 Rebounds ... (in 20min.)
15. Raed Ouweis - 0 Points ... (in 10min.)
Coach: Fadi Yaghmour
_____________
Orthodox :
4. Zaid Alkhas - 19 Points (1 Three-points) / 12 Rebounds / 4 assists / 2 block ... (in 40min.)
5. Saad Abu-Anzeh - 0 Points ... (in 3min.)
6.Ibrahim Abu-Khadra - 3 Points / 1 rebound / 2 steals ... (in 20min.)
7. Tamer Katami - 6 Points / 3 rebounds / 3 assists / 2 steals ... (in 30min.)
8. Amro Dkedik - Did not play (due to Injury)
9. Enver Soobzokov - 20 Points (2 Three-points) / 2 rebounds / 1 assist ... (in 37min.)
10. Shaker Alokosh - Did not play (due to Injury)
11. Laith Al-Abdallat - 1 Point / 4 Rebounds ... (in 10min.)
12. Fares SaqfAlhait - 4 Points / 3 Rebounds / 5 Assist ... (in 20min.)
13. Shadi Fleifl - 7 Points (1 Three-points) / 5 rebounds / 1 assist ... (in 20min.)
14. Ahmad Almoghrabi - 9 Points / 12 Rebounds ... (in 20min.)
Coach: Imad Alsaeed

ASU 119 - 50 Al-Ashrafiyeh

(Q1:26-11 / Q2:23-14 / Q3:32-12 / Q4:38-13)

ASU :
4. Ghazi Alnaber - Did not play (Injured)
5. Muneer Idais - 6 Point / 3 rebounds ... (in 15min.)
6. Ahmad Nofal - 10 Points / 5 rebounds / 3 assists / 2 steals / 1 block / 1 Dunk ... (in 20min.)
7. Mohammad Shaher - 3 Points / 7 Rebounds / 1 assist ... (in 15min.) >>> Disqualified
8. Osama Al-Faraj - 11 Points (1 Three-points) / 1 rebound / 1 assist / 1 steal ... (in 15min.)
9. Mohammad Azzazi - 4 Points / 2 rebound ... (in 15min.)
10. Abdullah Abu-Qoura - 14 Points / 9 rebound / 1 assists / 1 steal / 2 Block / 1 Dunk ... (in 20min.)
11. Wesam Al-Sous (181-G-83) - 20 Points (5 Three-points) / 1 rebounds / 2 assist ... (in 20min.)
12. Mahmoud Abdeen - 9 Points (2 Three-points) / 4 rebounds / 8 assists / 1 steal ... (in 20min.)
13. Mousa Al-Awadi - 9 Points (1 Three-points) / 2 rebounds / 3 assists / 2 steals ... (in 20min.)
14. Mohammad Hamdan - 15 Points / 9 rebounds / 1 assists / 2 steal / 2 block / 2 Dunk ... (in 20min.)
15. Islam Abbas - 18 Points / 12 rebounds / 3 assists ... (in 20min.)
Coach: Montaser Abu-Altaieb

_____________
Al-Ashrafiyeh:
4. Khaldoun Jbara - 18 Point ... (in 35min.)
5. Qusai Anani - 10 Point / 9 rebounds / 3 assists / 1 steal / 3 Block ... (in 30min.)
6. Alaa Obaid - 11 Points (1 Three-points) / 10 rebounds / 2 steals ... (in 25min.) >>> Disqualified
7. Sharaf Bani-Hamad - 0 Points ... (in 10min.)
8. Ahmad Bani-Hamad - 0 Points ... (in 10min.)
9. Moath Atallah - 0 Points ... (in 10min.)
10. Ibrahim Ahmad - Did not play
11. Saif Al-Diabat - 2 Points / 1 steal ... (in 10min.)
12. Moath Azaizeh - 0 Points / 1 rebound ... (in 15min.)
13. Abdullah Diabat - 5 Points / 1 assists ... (in 20min.)
14. Bilal Al-Abbasi - 4 Points / 6 rebounds ... (in 25min.)
15. Mosab Al-Hilu - 0 Points / 1 rebound / 1 steal ... (in 10min.)
Coach: Yousef Alsaeed

Al-Riyadi/Aramex 84 - 30 Al-Jaleel

(Q1:23-6 / Q2:26-13 / Q3:24-3 / Q4:11-8)

Al-Riyadi/Aramex:
4. Ahmad Al-Duweiri - 10 Points / 10 rebounds / 2 Block ... (in 25min.)
5. Majdi Al-Ghazzawi - 10 Points (1 Three-points)/ 1 rebounds / 2 steal ... (in 20min.)
6. Yazan Al-Taweel - 2 points / 4 rebounds / 1 assist ... (in 15min.)
7. Ammar Jabri - 5 Points / 2 Rebounds / 6 Steals / 5 Assists ... (in 25min.)
8. Issa Kamel - 6 Points (1 Three-points) / 1 Rebounds / 2 assist / 1 steal ... (in 10min.)
9. Ahmad Obeid - 12 Points / 3 Rebounds / 2 Assist / 5 steal ... (in 25min.)
10. Mohammad Jamal - 2 Points ... (in 10min.)
11. Ammar Bostami - 13 Points / 4 rebounds / 1 assists / 1 steal ... (in 20min.)
12. Faisal Khair - 12 Points / 4 Rebounds / 2 steals / 1 Block ... (in 25min.)
13. Ali El-Zubi - 12 Points / 2 rebounds / 3 assists / 2 Steels / 1 Block... (in 25min.)
14. Ali Jamal - Did not play (Injured)
15. Mohammad Al-Shami - Did not play (Injured)
Coach: Motasem Salameh

________
Al-Jaleel :
4. Ibrahim Al-Naser - 9 Points (2 Three-points) / 2 rebounds ... (in 25min.)
5. Mostafa Mansour - 4 Points / 4 rebounds / 2 assists ... (in 25min.)
6. Amjad Jbara - 1 point / 2 rebounds/ 1 assist / 1 steal / 1 block ... (in 25min.)
7. Yazan Haddad - Did not play
9. Abdallah Fatouhi - 6 Points (2 Three-points) / 2 Rebounds / 1 Assist / 1 steal ... (in 25min.)
10. Hamzah Alzoubi - 0 Points / 1 steal ... (in 20min.)
11. Ammar Al-Shareeki - Did not play
12. Ahmad Al-Moumani - 6 Points / 2 Rebounds / 1 steals / 1 Block ... (in 25min.)
13. Mohammad Bakeer - 2 points / 6 rebounds / 1 Block... (in 20min.)
14. Issa Al-Moghrabi - 0 points / 1 assist / 1 steal ... (in 10min.)
15. Odai Abu-Qamar - 2 points / 2 rebounds ... (in 25min.)
Coach: Ibrahim Al-Asous

Kofer Yoba 70 - 45 Wehdat

**Stats: Courtesy of JNBT Page

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KAZAKHSTAN

Barsy Atyrau and Kaspiy exchange wins - by Eurobasket News
Barsy Atyrau and Kaspiy Aktau traded victories in their recent back-to-back clashes. The games were played in Aktau.
Barsy got to the winning start. They earned a 68:57 win in the first game. Evstigneev scored 19 points to pace the winners. Barsy ensured a 41:30 halftime lead. Kaspiy slowed the visitors down in the second half but could not catch up with them. Maris Laksa (207-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Providence) stepped up with 13 points, while Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) added 11 points in the victory. Dzhanysh Adiev responded with 14 points for Kaspiy. Dmitri Dogadin (204-F-81) and Poleschuk finished with 11 points each in the loss.
However Kaspiy pulled themselves together and came up with a different game next day. The hosts trailed by 2 points at halftime 29:31. But led by Dmitri Dogadin Kaspiy managed to erase the deficit and surged ahead for a 46:43 advantage with one quarter remaining. Kaspiy unloaded 24 points in the final frame to seal a 70:62 victory at the end. Dmitri Dogadin stepped up with 18 points, while Dzhanysh Adiev added 13 points in the victory. Dmitri Dyatlovsky (195-G-85) and Julian Olubuyi (175-G, college: N.Arizona) had 18 points each for Barsy.

Standings -D1

D1 Standings

1. BC Astana		18-0
2. Barsy Atyrau		14-6
3. Kaspiy Aktau		10-10
4. BK Almaty		7-9
5. Tobol		7-11
6. BK Atyrau		0-20

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KOSOVO

Top four teams have easy way to Kosovo Cup Final Four - by Dren Shporta
Yesterday in Basketball Federation of Kosovo (FBK) office has been taken a draw for Kosovo Cup for this season, 2011/12. In the draw took place all basketball teams from the two leagues, BKT Superliga and Liga e Pare.

The teams were spread in the four groups and the winners will go directly to the Kosovo Cup Final Four. Reigning Cup Winner, Peja, is in Group D with Kosova Vushtrri, leaders of Liga e Pare Vellaznimi and Sfera. Peja had made a great comeback with Demarius Bolds and Samir Shaptahovic last season while they defeated Sigal Prishtina in the final. This year they have also a strong team with Mario Edwards, Dustin Scott and Mirza Ahmetbasic, so they are in good position to repeat last years success.

Last year Cup finalists, Sigal Prishtina, are drawn in the Group A with Drita, Lipjani and Skenderaj. Cup Winner of 2003, Bashkimi, has been drawn in the next Group B with Futura, RTV 21 and Megasports. Actual leaders of BKT Superliga, Trepca, are in an only group with 5 teams, and will wait for the winners between Kolegji Univers, Kastrioti, Fushe Kosova and Llapi.

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LATVIA

LBL Standing

LBL Standings

1. Ventspils		12-0
2. Liepaja		12-8
3. Valmiera		12-11
4. VEF Riga		10-1
5. LU		10-11
6. Jelgava		10-13
7. Turiba		9-13
8. Jurmala		8-14
9. U18		0-12

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Sims, VEF Riga	24.1
2. Kalve, Valmiera	18.8
3. Peiners, LU	18.7
4. Lucas, Valmiera	17.1
5. Krumins, Jelgava	16.9
6. Mayo, Liepaja	16.5
7. Ozols, Jurmala	16.3
8. Mediss, Turiba	15.5
9. Young, Ventspils	14.9
10. Kravcenko, Liepaja	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.8

1. Jonats, Jurmala	9.8
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	9.0
3. Willard, Ventspils	8.5
4. Dargais, LU	8.2
5. Rozitis, Valmiera	8.1
6. Sims, VEF Riga	8.0
7. Mednis, Turiba	7.3
8. Kalve, Valmiera	6.3
9. Andriukaitis, Liep.	6.3
10. Nelson, Jelgava	6.2

Assists Per Game

Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Mayo, Liepaja	5.2
2. Lucas, Valmiera	4.6
3. Kravcenko, Liepaja	3.7
4. Lejasmeiers, Vents.	3.6
5. Coders, Jurmala	3.6
6. Millage, VEF Riga	3.3
7. Krumins, Jelgava	3.2
8. Gray, Ventspils	3.0
9. Valters, VEF Riga	2.9
10. Peiners, LU	2.7

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

Jekabs ROZITIS
  Valmiera
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Rozitis, Valmiera	1.7
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	1.1
3. Cain, VEF Riga	1.0
4. Ozols, Jurmala	1.0
5. Jonats, Jurmala	0.8
6. Plivda, LU	0.7
7. Willard, Ventspils	0.6
8. Kavaliauskas, VEF	0.6
9. Sims, VEF Riga	0.6
10. Kalnins, Turiba	0.6

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

1. Barons kvartals		23-2
2. BK VEF		22-3
3. Liepaja-2		21-3
4. Saldus		21-4
5. VEF Kadeti		15-10
6. RSU		14-10
7. BS Riga		13-11
8. VA		12-13
9. DSN		10-13
10. Ogres		8-17
11. Jelgava/LLU		8-17
12. Cesis		8-18
13. Livani		8-18
14. Valmiera BSS		6-17
15. Gulbene		6-21
16. Ridzene		4-22

LBL2 Round 31: VEF Riga junior loses #1 position - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in LBL2 is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 5 rounds.

Round 31 in LBL2 means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Riga where host Barons kvartals (23-2) beat league's leader VEF Riga junior (22-3) 63-54 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of VEF Riga junior. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 40-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Barons kvartals have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader. VEF Riga junior at the other side dropped to the second place with three games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Barons kvartals. VEF Riga junior will play next round against Cesis trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Barons kvartals will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game.
Bottom-ranked Ridzene managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of twelve consecutive loses. This time they won against twelfth-ranked Cesis 87-82. Ridzene maintains sixteenth place with 4-22 record. Newly promoted Cesis keep the twelfth position with 18 games lost. They share it with Livani. Ridzene's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga BS Riga.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Riga. Local RSU (14-10) outscored 15th ranked Gulbene (6-21) 80-52 on Thursday night. Newly promoted RSU maintains sixth place with 14-10 record. Gulbene at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. RSU will meet at home higher ranked Saldus (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gulbene will play against Valmiera BSS (#14) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games of round 31 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
VEF Kadeti was defeated by Saldus in a road game 71-67. VEF Kadeti beat Livani at home 92-80. VA won against Ogres on the opponent's court 71-62. Saldus managed to outperform BS Riga in a home game 64-55.

Saldus - VEF Kadeti 71-67

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked VEF Kadeti's (15-10) road loss to fourth ranked Saldus (21-4) 67-71 on Friday. VEF Kadeti was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The victory was the seventh consecutive win for Saldus. They maintain fourth place with 21-4 record. Loser VEF Kadeti keeps the fifth position with ten games lost. Saldus will meet RSU (#6) in the next round. VEF Kadeti will play against Zemgale/Juniors in Jelgava and hope to secure a win.

Barons kvartals - BK VEF 63-54

Round 31 in LBL2 means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Riga where host Barons kvartals (23-2) beat league's leader VEF Riga junior (22-3) 63-54 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of VEF Riga junior. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 40-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Barons kvartals have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader. VEF Riga junior at the other side dropped to the second place with three games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Barons kvartals. VEF Riga junior will play next round against Cesis trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Barons kvartals will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game.

Cesis - Ridzene 82-87

Bottom-ranked Ridzene managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of twelve consecutive loses. This time they won against twelfth-ranked Cesis 87-82. Cesis were ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 56-48 second half run of Ridzene. Ridzene maintains sixteenth place with 4-22 record. Newly promoted Cesis keep the twelfth position with 18 games lost. They share it with Livani. Ridzene's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga BS Riga.

RSU - Gulbene 80-52

The game with biggest result difference took place in Riga. Local RSU (14-10) outscored 15th ranked Gulbene (6-21) 80-52 on Thursday night. The game was mostly controlled by RSU. Gulbene managed to win second period 18-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Newly promoted RSU maintains sixth place with 14-10 record. Gulbene at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. RSU will meet at home higher ranked Saldus (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gulbene will play against Valmiera BSS (#14) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

VEF Kadeti - Livani 92-80

No shocking result in a game in Riga where fifth ranked VEF Kadeti (15-10) defeated 13th ranked Livani (8-18) 92-80 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 28-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. VEF Kadeti maintains fifth place with 15-10 record. Loser Livani dropped to the twelfth position with 18 games lost. They share it with Cesis. VEF Kadeti will meet Zemgale/Juniors (#11) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Livani will have a break next round.

Ogres - VA 62-71

Rather expected game when 10th ranked BS Ogre (8-17) was defeated at home by eighth ranked Ventspils Augstskola (12-13) 71-62 on Wednesday. Ventspils Augstskola maintains eighth place with 12-13 record. BS Ogre lost their third game in a row. They keep the tenth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Jelgava/LLU. Ventspils Augstskola will meet at home higher ranked Saldus (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BS Ogre will play against DSN (#9) in Riga and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Saldus - BS Riga 64-55

Rather predictable result when fourth ranked Saldus (21-4) beat at home 6th ranked BS Riga (13-11) 64-55 on Monday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 18-7 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Saldus dominated on the defensive end, holding BS Riga to just 7 points in fourth quarter. The victory was the seventh consecutive win for Saldus. They maintain fourth place with 21-4 record. Loser BS Riga dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Saldus will meet RSU (#6) in the next round. BS Riga's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena Ridzene.

Kaspars Cipruss'' double-double gives him Player of the Week award among Latvian players who play abroad. - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Latvians who are currently playing abroad.

Kaspars Cipruss

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international center Kaspars Cipruss (210-82, agency: Interperformances). Despite his very good performance BC Rakvere Tarvas was defeated 86-74 on the road by the second-ranked Kalev/Cramo. his team was defeated 86-74. He recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 17 rebounds in 34 minutes on the court. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Cipruss belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #4 and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Cipruss averages: 17.3ppg, 10.3rpg, 2FGP: 66.7%(146-219), 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 69.3%. He played for the Latvian national team four years ago.

Edgard Jeromanovs

#2. The second best performer abroad this week is an international point guard Edgard Jeromanovs (186-86), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan. Jeromanovs could not help Norrkoping Dolphins (21-12) to beat Eco Orebro (3-31) despite his very good performance in Friday night''s game. He was the top scorer with 23 points. Jeromanovs also added 4 assists. But Norrkoping Dolphins lost 97-102 in Orebro to the league outsider (#10) Eco Orebro. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. It''s Jeromanovs'' first season with the team. This year his overall stats are: 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, 3FGP: 35.0% and FT: 77.4% in the 32 games he played so far. Jeromanovs is currently a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Rihards Kuksiks

#3. Third place goes to an international swingman Rihards Kuksiks (198-88, college: Arizona St.). He contributed to a Valencia Basket''s victory against the third-ranked VEF Riga (3-3) 82-71 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Kuksiks scored 8 points in 22 minutes. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first in group I. So far his team won all six games in the Top 16. They will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. Kuksiks'' total stats this season are: 7.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 2FGP: 73.3%, 3FGP: 36.1%. He is also a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Rinalds Sirsnins

#4. Point guard Rinalds Sirsnins (186-85) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kaspars Cipruss and both played together in the last Estonian KML game. Sirsnins was not able to help one of league''s weakest teams BC Rakvere (15-8) in their game against Kalev/Cramo (16-2) despite his very good performance on Wednesday night. He recorded 14 points. But BC Rakvere Tarvas lost 74-86 in Tallinn to the second-ranked Kalev/Cramo. This year Sirsnins'' total stats are: 8.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg and 1.5spg in the eight games. He used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2010.

Davis Bertans

#5. International forward Davis Bertans (208-92) managed to help BC Partizan MT:S Beograd to win against the closely-ranked Hemofarm (12-6) 87-66 in the Adriatic League in Friday night''s game. Bertans recorded 5 points in 14 minutes. BC Partizan MT:S Beograd (17-6) is placed third in group A. It was his team''s sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Adriatic League Regular Season. So now every game will be important. This season Bertans averages only 2.6ppg. He is also Latvian national team player.

Janis Strelnieks

#6. Guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89) was not able to secure a victory for Spartak St.Petersburg (5-1) in their game against Banvit BK (3-3) in the Eurocup. Strelnieks scored 6 points and added 3 passes. The first-placed Spartak St.Petersburg (5-1) lost 61-68 in Balikesir to the lower-ranked (#3) Banvit BK in the group K of Eurocup. They ended the series of eleven consecutive victories. His team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. Strelnieks has averaged so far 3.4ppg and 1.8apg in the 11 games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Latvian National Team roster.

Juris Umbrasko

#7. An experienced former international swingman Juris Umbrasko (197-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kaspars Cipruss. He played also in the last Estonian KML game facing Rinalds Sirsnins (above) in the other team. Umbrasko couldn''t help one of league''s weakest teams BC Rakvere (15-8) in their game against Kalev/Cramo (16-2). He recorded 9 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in 33 minutes. But BC Rakvere Tarvas was defeated 86-74 in Tallinn by the second-ranked Kalev/Cramo. Umbrasko has averaged so far 9.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg and 1.5spg. He used to play for the Latvian national team four years ago.

Armands Skele

#8. Guard Armands Skele (192-83) faced previously mentioned Kaspars Cipruss in the Estonian KML last game. Skele helped Kalev/Cramo win their gameagainst the closely-ranked BC Rakvere (15-8) 86-74. He recorded 10 points and added 3 passes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (16-2) is placed second in the KML. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Skele has averaged so far 7.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.6apg and 1.9spg in the 14 games. He used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2009.

Kaspars Vecvagars

#9. U19 international guard Kaspars Vecvagars (191-93) couldn''t help Baltai Kaunas (8-8) in their game against Naglis Palangos (3-14) in the Lithuanian LKL despite his good performance on Tuesday night. He recorded 12 points and added 3 passes. But KK Baltai Kaunas lost 78-86 in Palanga to the one of league''s weakest teams (#11) Naglis Palangos. Vecvagars has averaged so far 6.9ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.5apg in the eight games. He plays currently for the Latvian U19 national team.

Reinis Strupovics

   #10. Guard Reinis Strupovics (192-87) couldn''t help Valga (3-21) in their game against Rapla (13-10) in the Estonian KML. Despite his very good performance in Saturday night''s game his team was defeated 88-83. Strupovics was the top scorer with 28 points. He also added 6 rebounds in 40 minutes. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Strupovics is currently first on the league''s list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Strupovics averages: 20.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.3apg and 1.3spg. He is a former U20 international player as five years ago he still played for the Latvian national team.

   #11. International guard Janis Blums (190-82) helped his Spanish team Gescrap BB win their gameagainst the fourth-ranked Unicaja Malaga (0-6) 59-55 in the Euroleague last Thursday. Blums scored 5 points. He has averaged so far 6.5ppg and 1.1rpg in the 13 games. Blums is also Latvian national team player.

   #12. International power forward Rolands Freimanis (207-88) couldn''t help Girona FC (13-13) in their game against Palencia Baloncesto (12-13) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). Despite his very good performance on Friday night his team was defeated 80-65. He scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 29 minutes. Freimanis has relatively good stats this season: 12.7ppg and 5.5rpg. He plays currently for the Latvian national team.

   #13. Former international guard Edmunds Gabrans (190-79) led Froya Basket to a victory against the one of league''s weakest teams Ammerud Bskt (2-19) 108-57 in the Norwegian BLNO on Sunday night. Gabrans recorded 13 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. He belongs to league''s best passers and is ranked #4. Gabrans has very reliable stats this year: 14.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.1apg and 1.9spg in the 19 games. He used to play for the Latvian national team ten years ago.

   #14. International swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85) couldn''t help Assi Ostuni (9-12) in their game against Prima Veroli (9-12) in the Italian Lega2 (second division). Jurevicus recorded 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 28 minutes. His team was defeated 74-62. This season he has relatively solid stats: 13.0ppg, 4.1rpg and 2.1apg. Jurevicus is also Latvian national team player.

   #15. International center Lauris Blaus (204-90, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Reinis Strupovics. But that was another game of his team in Estonian KML which we would like to mention. Blaus couldn''t help Valga (3-21) in their game against Kalev/Cramo (16-2) despite his very good performance last Friday. He had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 10 rebounds. His team was crushed 85-45. Blaus is currently seventh on the list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place). This year he has very good stats: 14.1ppg, 7.8rpg and 1.9apg in the eight games. Blaus plays currently for the Latvian national team.

There are also few other players with good stats last week, who all have never played for any of Latvian national teams, but who have Latvian nationality:

   #1. Gary Gandel (203-G/F-80) led Hod Hasharon to a victory over the closely-ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (9-12) 89-82 in the Israeli National League (second division) last Tuesday. Gandel was MVP of the game. He scored 24 points, grabbed 6 boards, dished 5 assists and stole 6 balls in 37 minutes. Maccabi Hod Hasharon (11-10) is placed fifth in the National League. Gandel has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 16.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.0apg and 1.8spg. Gandel has also Israeli citizenship.

   #2. Martins Berkis (198-F-85) contributed to Svit''s victory against the closely-ranked Nitra (21-11) 74-65 in the Slovakian Extraliga in Wednesday night''s game. Berkis scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BK Iskra Svit (17-15) is placed fourth in the Extraliga. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Berkis has very impressive stats this year: 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.0apg and 1.4spg in the 30 games he played so far.

   #3. Martins Provizors (202-C-87) was the main contributor in a DCU Saints'' victory against the second-ranked B.Gais Neptune (11-8) 92-58 in the Irish SuperLeague last Sunday. He was MVP of the game. Provizors recorded 26 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 5 assists and made 4 blocks in 23 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Conference North. DCU St.Vincents Dublin (16-5) is placed first in North Conference. The Regular Season already ended. Provizors is one of the most experienced players in a team as it''s his fifth year in DCU Saints'' roster. He is currently ninth on the league''s list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (fourth place). This season Provizors has very high stats. He averages: 15.4ppg, 12.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5bpg and 1.5spg.

   #4. Matiss Sakne (191-G-91) contributed to a Horsens IC''s victory against the closely-ranked SISU (12-15) 94-81 in the Danish Ligaen on Sunday night. He scored 9 points. Horsens IC (12-15) is placed fourth in the Ligaen. It was his team''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Sakne has averaged so far 6.4ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.7apg in the 28 games.

   #5. Rihards Sulcs (190-F-87) helped Bradford Dragons win their gameagainst the closely-ranked Reading Rockets (8-7) 71-63 in the British EBL (second division) in Saturday night''s game. He scored 12 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 32 minutes. Bradford Dragons (11-7) is placed fifth in the EBL. Sulcs is ranked fourth on the list of the most steals in the league. This season he has very high stats. Sulcs averages: 15.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg and 2.7spg.

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

LEBANON

Riyadi outclassed Sagesse in the Derby, A triple Double for Fadi Khatib - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
In the 3rd gameof this season Riyadi outclassed Sagesse in Ghazir , Riyadi had a big dominance on the game and they had a big lead at the half with 16 points , 43-26. It was clear that Riyadi were very concentrated on keeping their winning streak alive after the win against Chamville in the WABL in a Double Overtime on the score of 104-100.
On the other side Sagesse players were out of the game from its first minutes and they couldnt match Riyadi in the first half ; in the second half the game turned into more easy one due that the two teams predicted the outcome of the game; The game finished at the score of 89-70.
For the 2nd consecutive game Ismail Ahmad controlled the game and did whatever he wanted to do , he finished the game with 20 pts and 14 rebs , Nate Johnson led all scorers in the game with 29 pts.

In another game Champville continued its good performance despite loosing in the WABL against Riyadi the team regrouped and cruised into a big win against Byblos on the score of 106-87.
Fadi Khatib had a huge game with 24pts,11rebs,10ast , Guarnette Thompson finished the game with 26pts; On the other side Chudney Grey continued its big performance after his coming back from the injury he finished the game with 31pts,6rebs,9ast.

Jiri Hubalek to play with Al Mouttahed - by Maarouf Mawloud
Al Mouttahed Tripoli signed with Croatian center Jiri Hubalek (209-C-82, college: Iowa St.) to play with the team for the remaining of the seasons.
and according to the management they will not release Micah Brand.
Jiri played recently in WABA league and had an average of 20 ppg and 12 rbds.Also he played in Italy (17 points and 8 rebounds) and Croitia and start his career in NCAA with Lowa university and had 12 pts and 8 rebounds per game

Round Four of the Second Stage - by Eurobasket News
Hoops - Champville 83-94
The game in Beirut was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Champville (18-1) played at the court of 8th ranked Hoops Club (5-15). Champville defeated Hoops Club 94-83. The game was mostly controlled by Champville. Hoops Club was better in fourth quarter 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Champville forced 27 Hoops Club turnovers. Strangely Hoops Club outrebounded Champville 42-22 including a 26-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Fadi Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) who helped to win the game recording 36 points (!!!) and American power forward Garnett Thompson (207-80, college: Providence) who added 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side American guard Damond Williams (197-80, college: McNeese St.) responded with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and Hassan El Khatib scored 15 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Hoops Club players scored in double figures. Champville have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 18-1 record behind leader Al Riyadi. Hoops Club lost tenth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 15 games lost.
Top scorers:
Champville: F.Khatib 36+3reb+3ast, G.Thompson 23+9reb+4ast, C.Sarkis 17+1reb+6ast, E.Estephane 6+2reb+4ast, N.Hawe 5+2reb+1ast, M.Ibrahim 4+2reb+8ast
Hoops: D.Williams 25+7reb+4ast, H.El Khatib 15+9reb+6ast, B.Ibrahim 13+1reb+1ast, A.Fakhreddine 10+10reb+3ast, K.Rhymer 8+7reb+5ast, H.Kansou 7+3reb+2ast

Al Riyadi - Bejjeh 105-80
Div.A top team - Al Riyadi (19-1) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed seventh ranked Bejjeh (7-13) in Beirut 105-80. The game without a history. Al Riyadi led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Bejjeh's 32 and made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Bejjeh 45-27 including a 31-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Al Riyadi looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Amir Saoud (188-91) who helped to win the game recording 31 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. International power forward Ali Kanaan (205-85, college: Mass.-Lowell, agency: Pro Management Agency) contributed with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Al Riyadi players scored in double figures. International forward Nadim Souaid (192-86) replied with 24 points and 4 assists and international forward Patrick Bou Abboud (199-87) added 18 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Bejjeh. Al Riyadi have an impressive 14-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 19-1 record. Bejjeh lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 13 games lost.
Top scorers:
Al Riyadi: A.Saoud 31+5reb+4ast, A.Kanaan 23+13reb, W.Pharis 17+11reb+6ast, A.Mahmoud 10+4reb+9ast, H.Tawbeh 9+7reb+1ast, O.El Turk 8+2reb+2ast
Bejjeh: N.Souaid 24+2reb+4ast, R.Abou Jawdeh 18+2reb+1ast, P.Bou Abboud 18+9reb+2ast, J.Kabbara 9+4reb+3ast, H.Zakaria 4+5reb, M.Akkad 4+2reb+4ast

Byblos - Sagesse 92-82
The game in Byblos was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Sagesse (10-10) played at the court of fifth ranked Byblos (9-11). Byblos defeated Sagesse 92-82 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Sagesse. The game was mostly controlled by Byblos. Sagesse managed to win fourth quarter 28-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 25-of-32 free shots (78.1 percent) during the game. The winners were led by American guard Chudney Gray (188-78, college: St.John's, agency: SDJ Sports) who scored that evening 26 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and the other American import forward Desmond Penigar (201-81, college: Utah St.) supported him with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Byblos players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 24 points, 14 rebounds and 5 blocks (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) by American center Brandon Crump (208-82, college: Tennessee) did not help to save the game for Sagesse. The former international guard Sabah Khoury (196-82, agency: Pro Management Agency) added 20 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Byblos maintains fifth position with 9-11 record. Sagesse at the other side keeps the fourth place with ten games lost.
Top scorers:
Byblos: C.Gray 26+7reb+5ast, D.Penigar 23+10reb+4ast, Y.Sabra 13+10reb, A.Barada 13+3reb+3ast, K.Mechref 10+6reb+2ast, M.Abou Jaoudeh 7+3reb+2ast
Sagesse: B.Crump 24+14reb, S.Khoury 20+7reb+3ast, N.Johnson 13+4reb+8ast, M.Martinez 9+7reb+2ast, J.Accaoui 8+1reb+3ast, J.Bitar 7+2reb+1ast

Khatib's 36-point game gives him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award (by PMA Basketball) - by Eurobasket News

32-year old forward Fadi Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Champville and receives a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Second Stage).
He had the game-high 36 points adding three rebounds and three assists for Champville in his team's victory, helping them to beat Hoops (#8, 5-15) 94-83. Champville maintains the 2nd position in Lebanese league. Champville has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 18-1. In the team's last game Khatib had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Champville's top player in his first season with the team. Khatib has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (2nd best: 27.3ppg), assists (8th best: 4.1apg) and averages solid 55.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Brandon Crump (208-C-82) of Sagesse. He is American center in his first season at Sagesse. In the last game Crump recorded impressive double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Sagesse lost that game 82-92 to slightly lower-ranked Byblos (#5, 9-11). Sagesse managed to keep the same 4th spot in the standings. His team's 10-10 record is not bad at all. Crump is a newcomer at Sagesse and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to Ali Kanaan (205-C/F-85, agency: Pro Management Agency) of league's leader Al Riyadi. Kanaan scored 23 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Al Riyadi, leading his team to a 105-80 easy win against the lower-ranked Bejjeh (#7, 7-13). Many experts and fans count Al Riyadi as a contender for championship title. Another victory and another confirmation that they may be right. Just look at their record: 19 victories and only one lost games. They are currently at the very top of the standings. Kanaan has a very solid season. In 19 games in Lebanon he scored 6.8ppg. He also has 7.3rpg and FGP: 52.1%. Ali Kanaan has also Lebanese passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80) of Champville - 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Amir Saoud (188-G-91) of Al Riyadi - 31 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
6. William Pharis (206-F/C-81) of Al Riyadi - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Damond Williams (197-G-80) of Hoops - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Desmond Penigar (201-F-81) of Byblos - 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Chudney Gray (188-G-78) of Byblos - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Ali Mahmoud (185-G-83) of Al Riyadi - 10 points, 4 rebounds and 9 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)

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings

1. Al Riyadi		20-1
2. Champville		19-1
3. Anibal		11-8
4. Sagesse		10-11
5. Byblos		9-12
6. Moutahed		8-12
7. Bejjeh		7-14
8. Hoops		5-16
9. Antranik		0-0

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 28.9

1. Penigar, Byblos	28.9
2. Khatib, Champville	27.4
3. Spencer, Al Riyadi	26.5
4. Ebi, Anibal	24.8
5. Williams, Byblos	24.1
6. Colwell, Antranik	23.9
7. Oguchi, Hoops	23.3
8. Gray, Byblos	23.0
9. Johnson, Sagesse	22.8
10. Williams, Hoops	21.1

Rebounds Per Game

Harold JAMISON
  Bejjeh
  (204-C-76)
  Avg: 14.6

1. Jamison, Bejjeh	14.6
2. Penigar, Byblos	12.4
3. Crump, Sagesse	11.3
4. Colwell, Antranik	11.1
5. Thompson, Champvil.	10.8
6. Ismail, Al Riyadi	10.7
7. Hoskin, Champville	9.8
8. Ebi, Anibal	9.3
9. Trim, Moutahed	9.2
10. Hamdar, Hoops	9.1

Assists Per Game

Corey WILLIAMS
  Byblos
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Williams, Byblos	7.1
2. Akl, Anibal	6.6
3. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi	6.4
4. Clemons, Hoops	6.3
5. Johnson, Moutahed	5.8
6. Ismail, Al Riyadi	5.8
7. Khatib, Champville	5.7
8. Gray, Byblos	5.6
9. Young, Antranik	5.4
10. Johnson, Sagesse	5.2

Steals Per Game

Jasmon YOUNGBLOOD
  Anibal
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Youngblood, Anibal	2.9
2. Clemons, Hoops	2.8
3. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi	2.6
4. Estephane, Champvi.	2.5
5. Johnson, Moutahed	2.4
6. Young, Antranik	2.3
7. Spencer, Al Riyadi	2.2
8. Williams, Byblos	2.0
9. Ebi, Anibal	1.9
10. Akl, Anibal	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Ndudi EBI
  Anibal
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Ebi, Anibal	2.9
2. Colwell, Antranik	2.2
3. Vogel, Al Riyadi	1.9
4. Hamdar, Hoops	1.8
5. Ismail, Al Riyadi	1.7
6. Crump, Sagesse	1.5
7. Sabra, Byblos	1.5
8. Thompson, Champvil.	1.4
9. Hoskin, Champville	1.2
10. Youngblood, Anibal	1.1

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

LIGA AMERICAS

Standings

Liga Americas Standings

Group A
1. Pioneros			2-1
2. La Union			2-1
3. Vivo/Franca			1-2
4. Fuerza Regia			1-2
Group B
1. Obras			3-0
2. Guaros			0-3
3. Bucaneros			2-1
4. Regatas C.			1-2
Group C
1. Arecibo			1-0
2. Leones SD			1-0
3. Cia do Terno			0-1
4. Cocodrilos			0-1
Group D
1. Itabom/Bauru			0-0
2. Los Leones			0-0
3. Quimsa			0-0
4. Uniceub/BRB			0-0

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 22.3

1. Smith, La Union	22.3
2. Gransberry, Cocod.	21.0
3. Ayuso, Arecibo	21.0
4. Washam, Obras	21.0
5. Basden, Vivo/Fran.	20.3
6. Parker, Guaros	19.0
7. Hornsby, Pioneros	19.0
8. Brock, Leones SD	19.0
9. Hickerson, Bucan.	18.3
10. Harris, Pioneros	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

Evan BROCK
  Leones SD
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13

1. Brock, Leones SD	13.0
2. Fuller, Fuerza Reg.	11.3
3. Lewis, La Union	11.3
4. Guzman, Leones SD	11.0
5. Gransberry, Cocod.	10.0
6. Drudi, Vivo/Franca	10.0
7. Colmenares, Cocod.	9.0
8. Fey, Bucaneros	7.7
9. Hickerson, Bucan.	7.3
10. Ivanovic, Vivo/Fr.	7.0

Assists Per Game

Javier MARTINEZ
  Regat.
  (189-G-78)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Martinez, Regat.	5.5
2. Konsztatd, Obras	5.3
3. Pinnock, Arecibo	5.0
4. Smith, La Union	4.3
5. De los Santo., Reg.	4.3
6. Penna, Vivo/Franca	4.3
7. Basden, Vivo/Fran.	4.0
8. Harris, Pioneros	4.0
9. Parker, Guaros	4.0
10. Mensah, Cia d.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Carl ELLIOTT
  Cocodrilos
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 4

1. Elliott, Cocodrilos	4.0
2. Parker, Guaros	3.5
3. Bishop, Cia d.	3.0
4. Lima, Cia do Terno	3.0
5. Elsener, Obras	3.0
6. Adams, Guaros	2.3
7. Bresolin, Cia d.	2.0
8. Santiago, Arecibo	2.0
9. Wohlleb, Leones SD	2.0
10. Washington, Leon.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Danilo PINNOCK
  Arecibo
  (196-G-83)
  Avg: 2

1. Pinnock, Arecibo	2.0
2. Washington, Leone.	1.0
3. Brock, Leones SD	1.0
4. Wohlleb, Leones SD	1.0
5. Centeno, Cocodrilos	1.0
6. Wolkowyski, La Uni.	1.0
7. Gransberry, Cocod.	1.0
8. Aubry, Arecibo	1.0
9. Jeronimo, Cia d.	1.0
10. Lewis, La Union	1.0

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

LITHUANIA

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

1. Lietuvos rytas		17-2
2. Zalgiris		15-0
3. Rudupis		14-3
4. Siauliai		12-6
5. Pieno Zvaigzdes		8-7
6. Baltai Kaunas		8-8
7. Kedainiai		6-11
8. Neptunas		6-11
9. Juventus		6-12
10. Sakalai		4-13
11. Naglis Palangos		3-14
12. Lietkabelis		3-15

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings

1. LKKA-Atletas		26-15
2. Radviliskis		26-15
3. Nafta Universitetas		25-16
4. Matinga-Juod.		24-17
5. Mazeikiai		23-18
6. Zalgiris-Sabonio		23-18
7. Statyba		23-18
8. Delikatesas		22-19
9. S.Marciulionio		22-19
10. Triobet		21-20
11. Ezerunas-Karys		20-21
12. Meresta		20-21
13. Perlas-MRU		18-23
14. Silute		15-26
15. Gargzdai		13-28
16. ABRO-Univ.		7-34

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 15.5

1. Valanciunas, Lietu.	15.5
2. Butkevicius, Rudup.	15.5
3. Urbonas, Juventus	15.3
4. Mazeika, Neptunas	14.9
5. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	14.6
6. Benn, Naglis Palan.	14.5
7. Vasylius, Siauliai	14.4
8. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	14.1
9. Hughes, Pieno Z.	13.5
10. Johnson, Naglis P.	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	10.5
2. Butkevicius, Rudup.	7.9
3. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.5
4. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.5
5. Petrukonis, Juven.	7.4
6. McClure, Kedainiai	7.3
7. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	6.8
8. Bowles, Siauliai	6.4
9. Adomaitis, Kedaini.	6.1
10. Katelynas, Lietuv.	5.9

Assists Per Game

Augustas PECIUKEVICIUS
  Sakal.
  (191-G-91)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Peciukeviciu., Sak.	5.2
2. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	5.2
3. Dainys, Neptunas	4.9
4. Rice, Lietuvos.	4.6
5. Broadus, Siauliai	4.6
6. Kelys, Pieno Z.	3.8
7. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	3.7
8. Maceina, Juventus	3.6
9. Kadziulis, Rudupis	3.5
10. Samenas, Sakalai	3.5

Steals Per Game

TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Hughes, Pieno Z.	2.2
2. Salenga, Zalgiris	2.0
3. Broadus, Siauliai	1.9
4. Benn, Naglis Palan.	1.7
5. Long, Siauliai	1.6
6. Ginevicius, Kedain.	1.6
7. Collins, Zalgiris	1.5
8. Kelys, Pieno Z.	1.4
9. Cizauskas, Baltai	1.4
10. Juskevicius, Rudu.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Valanciunas, Lietu.	1.9
2. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.8
3. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.4
4. Kairys, Pieno Z.	1.1
5. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.1
6. Morgan, Pieno Z.	1.0
7. McClure, Kedainiai	0.9
8. Zelionis, Rudupis	0.9
9. Samardziski, Lietu.	0.9
10. Joneliunas, Sakal.	0.8

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game

Sarunas VINGELIS
  LKKA-.
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 21.5

1. Vingelis, LKKA-.	21.5
2. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	19.2
3. Birgelis, Matinga-.	18.5
4. Rakauskas, Radvili.	18.3
5. Jucikas, AB.	17.8
6. Maneikis, Meresta	17.7
7. Varnelis, S.Marc.	16.9
8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.	16.9
9. Brown, Mazeikiai	16.4
10. Kvedaraviciu., De.	15.9

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	10.8
2. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.	8.5
3. Mineikis, Radvilis.	8.1
4. Urbonas, LK.	7.8
5. Kalvelis, Matinga-.	7.4
6. Linkevicius, Triob.	7.4
7. Ramanauskas, Radvi.	7.4
8. Jucikas, AB.	7.4
9. Pikalavicius, Deli.	7.3
10. Kazakauskas, Naf.	7.0

Assists Per Game

Matas SAPIEGA
  LK.
  (179-PG-90)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Sapiega, LK.	8.5
2. Kurauskas, AB.	5.5
3. Razutis, Silute	5.0
4. Semaska, Perla.	4.8
5. Malasauskas, LKKA.	4.5
6. Vileita, Perla.	4.4
7. Kuklierius, Mating.	4.4
8. Varanauskas, Stat.	4.4
9. Birgelis, Matinga-.	4.3
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri.	4.2

Steals Per Game

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

1. Razutis, Silute	2.8
2. Vileita, Perla.	2.4
3. Brown, Mazeikiai	2.4
4. Slivka, Meresta	2.2
5. Jogela, Zalgir.	2.1
6. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	1.9
7. Paliukenas, S.Marc.	1.9
8. Birgelis, Matinga-.	1.9
9. Kulbis, Ezerunas.	1.8
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri.	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. Ramanauskas, Garg.	1.3
5. Kaubrys, Silute	1.3
6. Krestinin, S.Marc.	1.1
7. Jucikas, AB.	1.1
8. Kymantas, Zalgir.	1.0
9. Vaitiekunas, Triob.	1.0
10. Ramanauskas, Sil.	1.0

LKL Round 17: Top-ranked Lietuvos rytas win another game - by Eurobasket News
LKL top team - Lietuvos rytas (17-2) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they beat fifth ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes (8-7) in Vilnius 85-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Pieno Zvaigzdes. The game was mostly controlled by Lietuvos rytas. Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to win third quarter 29-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lietuvos rytas dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Pieno Zvaigzdes' 28. They outrebounded Pieno Zvaigzdes 39-20 including a 29-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. 32 personal fouls committed by Pieno Zvaigzdes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. International center Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American power forward Lawrence Roberts (206-82, college: Mississippi St.) contributed with 10 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Guard Zydrunas Kelys (188-87) answered with 11 points and 9 assists for Pieno Zvaigzdes. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Lietuvos rytas have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 17-2 record. Newly promoted Pieno Zvaigzdes keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Lietuvos rytas are looking forward to face Kedainiai (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Rudupis in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
LKL top team - Lietuvos rytas (17-2) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eleventh ranked Lietkabelis (3-15) in Panevezys 77-49. The former international forward Mindaugas Katelynas (206-83, college: Chattanooga) stepped up and scored 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and Tyrese Rice chipped in 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) responded with 15 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Lietuvos rytas. They maintain first place with 17-2 record. Lietkabelis lost their fourth game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 15 games lost. Lietuvos rytas will play against Kedainiai (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Lietkabelis will have a break next round.
A very close game took place in Klaipeda between Kedainiai and Neptunas. Ninth ranked Kedainiai (6-11) got a very close victory on the road over 7th ranked Neptunas (6-11). Kedainiai managed to escape with a 2-point win 93-91 in the fight for the seventh place. Vytautas Sulskis nailed 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Laurynas Mikalauskas came up with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 10 rebounds for Neptunas in the defeat. Neptunas' coach Paulius Juodis tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kedainiai moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Neptunas. Neptunas lost their seventh game in a row. Kedainiai will meet league's leader Lietuvos rytas in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Neptunas will play against Juventus (#9) in Utena and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 17 Lietkabelis lost to undefeated Zalgiris on the road 71-93.

Lietuvos rytas - Pieno Zvaigzdes 85-67

LKL top team - Lietuvos rytas (17-2) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they beat fifth ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes (8-7) in Vilnius 85-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Pieno Zvaigzdes. The game was mostly controlled by Lietuvos rytas. Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to win third quarter 29-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lietuvos rytas dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Pieno Zvaigzdes' 28. They outrebounded Pieno Zvaigzdes 39-20 including a 29-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. 32 personal fouls committed by Pieno Zvaigzdes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. International center Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American power forward Lawrence Roberts (206-82, college: Mississippi St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Five Lietuvos rytas players scored in double figures. Guard Zydrunas Kelys (188-87) answered with 11 points and 9 assists and forward Eimantas Bendzius (203-90) added 15 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Pieno Zvaigzdes. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Lietuvos rytas have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 17-2 record. Newly promoted Pieno Zvaigzdes keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Lietuvos rytas are looking forward to face Kedainiai (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Rudupis in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pieno Zvaigzdes: L.Nobles 17+1reb, E.Bendzius 15+6reb, Z.Kelys 11+1reb+9ast, P.Prestes 8+3reb, P.Morkeliunas 7+1reb+1ast, T.Hughes 4+2reb
Lietuvos rytas: J.Valanciunas 18+7reb+1ast, R.Seibutis 13+3reb+2ast, T.Rice 13+1reb, S.Babrauskas 11+3reb+1ast, L.Roberts 10+12reb+3ast, P.Samardziski 8+5reb+1ast

Zalgiris - Lietkabelis 93-71

No shocking result in a game when leader Zalgiris (15-0) crushed bottom-ranked Lietkabelis (3-15) in Kaunas 93-71 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Zalgiris. Lietkabelis managed to win second period 25-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zalgiris looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American swingman Sonny Weems (198-86, college: Arkansas) nailed 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and the former international forward Tadas Klimavicius (204-82, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 12 points and 6 rebounds. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) came up with 8 points and 8 assists and forward Osvaldas Matulionis (200-91) added 13 points respectively for Lietkabelis in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the fifteenth consecutive win for Zalgiris. Defending champion maintains second place with 15-0 record having six point less than leader Lietuvos rytas. Lietkabelis lost their fourth game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 15 games lost. Zalgiris will meet Siauliai (#4) on the road in the next round. Lietkabelis will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Lietkabelis: E.Ezerskis 15+1reb+1ast, O.Matulionis 13+3reb+3ast, E.Stanionis 11+3reb, S.Vasiliauskas 8+3reb+8ast, A.Drungilas 8+5reb+2ast, G.Staniulis 7+10reb+2ast
Zalgiris: M.Kuzminskas 15+3reb+1ast, S.Weems 13+5reb+4ast, M.Popovic 12+3ast, T.Klimavicius 12+6reb+1ast, T.Delininkaitis 12+4reb+3ast, D.Collins 8+2reb+4ast

Lietkabelis - Lietuvos rytas 49-77

LKL top team - Lietuvos rytas (17-2) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eleventh ranked Lietkabelis (3-15) in Panevezys 77-49. Lietkabelis was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Lietuvos rytas dominated on the defensive end, holding Lietkabelis to just 6 points in fourth quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Lietkabelis' 20. Lietuvos rytas had a 27-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. Lietkabelis was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international forward Mindaugas Katelynas (206-83, college: Chattanooga) stepped up and scored 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and American point guard Tyrese Rice (185-87, college: Boston Coll., agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) responded with 15 points and center Adomas Drungilas (203-90) scored 8 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Lietuvos rytas. They maintain first place with 17-2 record. Lietkabelis lost their fourth game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 15 games lost. Lietuvos rytas will play against Kedainiai (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Lietkabelis will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Lietkabelis: S.Vasiliauskas 15+4reb+2ast, J.Zurna 8, A.Drungilas 8+4reb, G.Staniulis 5+4reb, E.Ezerskis 5+2reb+1ast, E.Stanionis 4+4reb+1ast
Lietuvos rytas: R.Seibutis 18, T.Rice 16+1reb+2ast, M.Katelynas 12+5reb+2ast, A.Jomantas 7+5reb+2ast, J.Valanciunas 6+7reb+1ast, P.Samardziski 5+4reb

Neptunas - Kedainiai 91-93

A very close game took place in Klaipeda between Kedainiai and Neptunas. Ninth ranked Kedainiai (6-11) got a very close victory on the road over 7th ranked Neptunas (6-11). Kedainiai managed to escape with a 2-point win 93-91 in the fight for the seventh place. The guests trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 31-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Kedainiai made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Guard Vytautas Sulskis (200-88, college: Youngstown St.) nailed 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side and forward Laimonas Kisielius (203-85, college: William & Mary) accounted for 15 points and 5 rebounds. Five Kedainiai players scored in double figures. Forward Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-85, college: Virginia) came up with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 10 rebounds and forward Arturas Valeika (206-85, college: Midland CC) added 11 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Neptunas in the defeat. Neptunas' coach Paulius Juodis tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kedainiai moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Neptunas. Neptunas lost their seventh game in a row. Kedainiai will meet league's leader Lietuvos rytas in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Neptunas will play against Juventus (#9) in Utena and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Neptunas: L.Mikalauskas 29+10reb+2ast, M.Mazeika 16+5reb+1ast, A.Valeika 11+10reb+3ast, A.Viskontas 8+2reb, M.Ruikis 7+2reb+1ast, E.Dainys 6+2reb+6ast
Kedainiai: V.Sulskis 19+5reb+2ast, V.Jasikevicius 18+1reb+2ast, L.Kisielius 15+5reb+3ast, V.Ginevicius 12+1reb+4ast, E.Dimsa 10+3reb+1ast, A.Adomaitis 10+4reb

NKL Round 11 (Second Stage): Change at the top of the standings - by Eurobasket News
NKL round 11 caused change at the leadership position. Fifteenth defeat of league's leader Radviliskis (26-15) against second ranked LKKA-Atletas (26-15) 83-74 was the most important game of the last round. It was a key game for the top position in . The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 45-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Radviliskis outrebounded LKKA-Atletas 36-23 including 29 on the defensive glass. Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points. point guard Matas Sapiega (179-90) contributed with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners. Center Rokas Grinius (204-88) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds for Radviliskis. LKKA-Atletas keeps a position of leader. Radviliskis will play next round against Zalgiris-Sabonio trying to make it back to the top of the standings. LKKA-Atletas will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.
Important game to mention about took place in Marijampole. Fourth ranked Matinga-Juod. (24-17) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 5th ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (23-18) 87-85 on Friday evening. It was a great evening for guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Marius Valukonis helped adding 27 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Rolandas Jakstas (200-92) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. maintains fourth place in with 24-17 record. Zalgiris-Sabonio at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 18 games lost. Matinga-Juod. will play against Mazeikiai (#5) at home in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Mazeikiai between Mazeikiai and Delikatesas. Seventh ranked Mazeikiai (23-18) got a very close home victory over 6th ranked Delikatesas (22-19). Mazeikiai managed to escape with a 2-point win 79-77 on Friday evening. It was an exceptional evening for Calvin Brock who led the winners and scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. Aivaras Kvedaravicius came up with 25 points and 7 rebounds for Delikatesas in the defeat. Mazeikiai moved-up to fifth place in . Loser Delikatesas dropped to the eighth position with 19 games lost. Mazeikiai will meet higher ranked Matinga-Juod. (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Delikatesas will play against Triobet (#10) in Jonava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Nafta Universitetas (25-16) against eleventh ranked Triobet (21-20) on Friday night. Visiting Nafta Universitetas was defeated by Triobet in Jonava 82-66. The best player for the winners was Vytautas Kruzikas who scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Triobet moved-up to tenth place in . Nafta Universitetas at the other side keeps the third position with 16 games lost. Triobet's next round opponent will be higher ranked Delikatesas (#8) in Joniskis and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against the league's leader LKKA-Atletas (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Ezerunas-Karys (20-21) and Gargzdai-Bremena (13-28), which took place in Gargzdai. Higher ranked Ezerunas-Karys lost to fifteenth ranked Gargzdai-Bremena in a road game 72-85 on Friday. Laurynas Lucinskas orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 7 rebounds. Newly promoted Gargzdai-Bremena maintains fifteenth place in with 13-28 record. Ezerunas-Karys at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the eleventh position with 21 games lost. Gargzdai-Bremena will face higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#9) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 11: Meresta beat Silute on the road 97-89. Statyba won against Perlas-MRU on its own court 101-85. S.Marciulionio managed to outperform ABRO-Univ. in Vilnius 86-77.

Group A

Matinga-Juod. - Zalgiris-Sabonio 87-85

Important game to mention about took place in Marijampole. Fourth ranked Matinga-Juod. (24-17) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 5th ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (23-18) 87-85 on Friday evening. It looked good early as Zalgiris-Sabonio took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Matinga-Juod. had a 26-18 second period charge getting the lead and Zalgiris-Sabonio was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 85-87. Matinga-Juod. players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Zalgiris-Sabonio was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Forward Marius Valukonis (198-88) helped adding 27 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Rolandas Jakstas (200-92) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds and guard Justas Tamulis (194-94) scored 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Zalgiris-Sabonio players scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. maintains fourth place in with 24-17 record. Zalgiris-Sabonio at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 18 games lost. Matinga-Juod. will play against Mazeikiai (#5) at home in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris-Sabonio: J.Tamulis 16+5reb+4ast, R.Jakstas 16+10reb+1ast, M.Grigonis 12+4reb+2ast, N.Barauskas 10+8reb, T.Dimsa 9+2reb+1ast, S.Kymantas 9+3reb
Matinga-Juod.: M.Valukonis 27+10reb+1ast, A.Birgelis 23+7reb+9ast, M.Kalvelis 15+10reb+1ast, P.Knyza 7+2reb+1ast, K.Pupinis 4+4reb, Z.Kuklierius 4+6ast

Triobet - Nafta Universitetas 82-66

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Nafta Universitetas (25-16) against eleventh ranked Triobet (21-20) on Friday night. Visiting Nafta Universitetas was defeated by Triobet in Jonava 82-66. The game was mostly controlled by Triobet. Nafta Universitetas was better in fourth quarter 21-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Triobet forced 23 Nafta Universitetas turnovers. The best player for the winners was forward Vytautas Kruzikas (199-89) who scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Center Paulius Vaitiekunas (208-87) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Center Arturas Gudaitis (208-93) produced 12 points and 8 rebounds and forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Triobet moved-up to tenth place in . Nafta Universitetas at the other side keeps the third position with 16 games lost. Triobet's next round opponent will be higher ranked Delikatesas (#8) in Joniskis and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against the league's leader LKKA-Atletas (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: A.Gudaitis 12+8reb, D.Anuzis 11+2reb+2ast, J.Kazakauskas 10+6reb+1ast, P.Zurna 8+3reb, D.Zvinklys 7+4reb+1ast, V.Tarolis 6+2reb+1ast
Triobet: P.Vaitiekunas 18+9reb, V.Kruzikas 17+7reb+3ast, H.Vorotnikovas 12+5reb+1ast, I.Dauksys 9+3reb+1ast, A.Vasiliauskas 7+3reb+1ast, T.Sebeziovas 7+4reb+2ast

Mazeikiai - Delikatesas 79-77

A very close game took place in Mazeikiai between Mazeikiai and Delikatesas. Seventh ranked Mazeikiai (23-18) got a very close home victory over 6th ranked Delikatesas (22-19). Mazeikiai managed to escape with a 2-point win 79-77 on Friday evening. Delikatesas trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 27-17 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 77-79 at the end of the game. Mazeikiai forced 24 Delikatesas turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Calvin Brock (196-86, college: Illinois) who led the winners and scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Parrish Brown (185-84, college: Maryland, agency: Hightower Law Firm) accounted for 10 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) came up with 25 points and 7 rebounds and swingman Zilvinas Petraitis (194-88) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Delikatesas in the defeat. Five Mazeikiai and four Delikatesas players scored in double figures. Mazeikiai moved-up to fifth place in . Loser Delikatesas dropped to the eighth position with 19 games lost. Mazeikiai will meet higher ranked Matinga-Juod. (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Delikatesas will play against Triobet (#10) in Jonava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: A.Kvedaravicius 25+7reb+2ast, Z.Petraitis 16+5reb+4ast, T.Slezas 14+3reb+2ast, V.Uzkuraitis 12+7reb+4ast, M.Keras 6+4reb+1ast, V.Jatulevicius 4+2reb
Mazeikiai: C.Brock 13+5reb+2ast, R.Trakimas 11+3reb+3ast, A.Aleksandrovas 11+5reb+1ast, J.Jurgo 11+4reb, P.Brown 10+4reb+5ast, D.Vaitelis 10+4reb

LKKA-Atletas - Radviliskis 83-74

NKL round 11 caused change at the leadership position. Fifteenth defeat of league's leader Radviliskis (26-15) against second ranked LKKA-Atletas (26-15) 83-74 was the most important game of the last round. It was a key game for the top position in . The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 45-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Radviliskis outrebounded LKKA-Atletas 36-23 including 29 on the defensive glass. Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points. point guard Matas Sapiega (179-90) contributed with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners. Five LKKA-Atletas players scored in double figures. Center Rokas Grinius (204-88) answered with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) added 22 points in the effort for Radviliskis. LKKA-Atletas keeps a position of leader. Radviliskis will play next round against Zalgiris-Sabonio trying to make it back to the top of the standings. LKKA-Atletas will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: T.Rakauskas 22+4reb+1ast, A.Mineikis 17+5reb+1ast, R.Grinius 15+12reb+2ast, E.Zukauskas 7+2reb, L.Valantinas 4+2reb+3ast, J.Ramanauskas 4+5reb+1ast
LKKA-Atletas: S.Vingelis 24+3reb+3ast, T.Urbonas 14+3reb, T.Tamosiunas 13+4reb+1ast, M.Sapiega 11+5reb+9ast, V.Sragauskis 10+2reb+1ast, D.Gricius 7+3reb

Group B

Silute - Meresta 89-97

No shocking result in a game when twelfth ranked Meresta (20-21) beat on the road 14th ranked Silute (15-26) 97-89 on Friday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Silute won third quarter 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 Meresta won last quarter 25-19. Strangely Silute outrebounded Meresta 37-23 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Ukrainian point guard Klym Artamonov (183-93) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Forward Audrius Maneikis (203-84, college: Motlow St. CC) contributed with 18 points and 7 assists for the winners. Center Ramunas Rackauskas (205-87) answered with 19 points and 6 rebounds and guard Evaldas Saulys (193-93) added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Silute. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Meresta maintains twelfth place in with 20-21 record. Loser Silute keeps the fourteenth position with 26 games lost. Meresta will face bottom-ranked ABRO-Universitetas (#16) in Siauliai in the next round. Silute will play on the road against Perlas-MRU in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Silute: R.Rackauskas 19+6reb+2ast, V.Pancerevas 15+1reb+1ast, E.Saulys 13+8reb+4ast, I.Razutis 13+4reb+6ast, R.Brencius 11+8reb+2ast, A.Kaubrys 10+7reb+1ast
Meresta: K.Artamonov 19+6reb+6ast, A.Maneikis 18+2reb+7ast, L.Radavicius 14+1reb, S.Slivka 14+4reb+2ast, B.Bagdonavicius 14+4reb, D.Keburys 7+1reb

Statyba - Perlas-MRU 101-85

Very expected game when 13th ranked Perlas-MRU (18-23) lost to eighth ranked Statyba (23-18) in Vilnius 85-101 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Statyba. Perlas-MRU was better in second period 26-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Statyba looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Guard Ovidijus Varanauskas (187-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 6 assists. Forward Remigijus Sugintas (200-87) contributed with 18 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Statyba players scored in double figures. Power forward Mantas Virbalas (203-88) answered with 19 points and 6 rebounds and forward Zydrunas Stankus (197-78, college: Campbell) added 19 points in the effort for Perlas-MRU. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Statyba moved-up to seventh place in . Loser Perlas-MRU keeps the thirteenth position with 23 games lost. Statyba will face Ezerunas-Karys (#11) in Moletai in the next round. Perlas-MRU will play at home against Silute and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Perlas-MRU: Z.Stankus 19+2reb+3ast, M.Virbalas 19+6reb+2ast, M.Kazonas 16+4reb+3ast, P.Semaska 7+1reb+1ast, A.Udras 6+3reb+3ast, G.Vileita 5+1reb+2ast
Statyba: O.Varanauskas 22+4reb+6ast, R.Sugintas 18+3reb+4ast, V.Luksa 15+6reb+2ast, T.Rinkunas 12+4reb+5ast, D.Tarvydas 9+3ast, M.Paliukenas 9+4reb

Gargzdai - Ezerunas-Karys 85-72

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Ezerunas-Karys (20-21) and Gargzdai-Bremena (13-28), which took place in Gargzdai. Higher ranked Ezerunas-Karys lost to fifteenth ranked Gargzdai-Bremena in a road game 72-85 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-72. Ezerunas-Karys was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Laurynas Lucinskas (201-93) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Renatas Jonelis (201-84) contributed with 15 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Five Gargzdai-Bremena players scored in double figures. Center Marius Janisius (203-77) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and forward Andrius Slezas (200-75) added 16 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Ezerunas-Karys. Newly promoted Gargzdai-Bremena maintains fifteenth place in with 13-28 record. Ezerunas-Karys at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the eleventh position with 21 games lost. Gargzdai-Bremena will face higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#9) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Ezerunas-Karys: M.Janisius 20+12reb, A.Slezas 16+6reb+3ast, M.Kugauda 15+1reb+1ast, E.Narusis 7+2reb+2ast, P.Lescinskas 5+2reb+4ast, K.Alekna 5+1reb+2ast
Gargzdai: L.Lucinskas 22+7reb, T.Mazelis 17+3reb+1ast, R.Jonelis 15+9reb+2ast, M.Martinkus 14+2reb+3ast, M.Grigaitis 10+4reb+1ast, D.Matutis 5+3reb

ABRO-Univ. - S.Marciulionio 77-86

Very predictable result when ninth ranked S.Marciulionio (22-19) won against bottom-ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-34) in Siauliai 86-77 on Friday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-77. S.Marciulionio forced 19 ABRO-Universitetas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Center Egidijus Mockevicius (204-92) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). point guard Robertas Bitinas (182-84) contributed with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Four S.Marciulionio players scored in double figures. Guard Rokas Giedraitis (195-92) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Vytautas-Edvardas Pikalavicius (196-90) added 8 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for ABRO-Universitetas. S.Marciulionio maintains ninth place in with 22-19 record. Loser ABRO-Universitetas stay dead last with 34 lost games. S.Marciulionio will face Gargzdai-Bremena (#15) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. ABRO-Universitetas will play against Meresta in Pakruojis.
Top scorers:
ABRO-Univ.: R.Giedraitis 22+10reb+4ast, A.Gurklys 13+2reb+1ast, E.Grikstas 12+3reb+4ast, V.Pikalavicius 8+9reb+3ast, N.Mika 6+1reb+1ast, A.Kurauskas 6+4reb+9ast
S.Marciulionio: E.Mockevicius 21+12reb+1ast, M.Pociukonis 15+6ast, R.Bitinas 14+5reb+7ast, T.Lekunas 14+2reb+2ast, N.Varnelis 8+7reb+4ast, O.Olisevicius 6+2reb+2ast

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MONTENEGRO

Interview with Rasa Mijuskovic, founder of DELFI basketball agency and official Red Star Belgrade scout for Montenegro and Bosnia - by Darko Pekic
Rasa Mijuskovic , the scout of BC Red Star Belgrade and founder of Delfi basketball agency decided to talk to Eurobasket.com and share some interesting information about his career, clients and basketball in general. Mijuskovic is a well known name among the basketball workers in ex Yugoslavia and his opinion deserves a space on eurobasket pages.

Mr. Mijuskovic, you have been present in the sports world for a very long time. Could you tell us more about your playing career? Do you remember these days well?

Honestly, it was a long time ago and my career as a player is connected to football in early 70s when I was a talented schoolboy who got a call to join FK Obilic. Then I was a member of FC Red Star Belgrade until 1986, when I decided to dedicate myself to college and private business related to sports.

At the beginning of the 90s you worked as a director of several football clubs in Belgrade (FK Zeleznicar, 21 May FC, FC Zmaj). How did you decide to enter in the football administration?

As someone who was active in football, I got the call from FC Zeleznicar to be their technical director. I decided to accept the offer and in only few seasons starting from the zone league Belgrade, the lowest league, we arrived almost in the First Division..After the experience in Zeleznicar I worked as director in few football clubs in Serbia and Greece.

Probably not everybody in Montenegro and the region know that you worked for almost ten years ago in Athens, during the mid 90's, as a general manager of FC Vouliagmenis. What are your memories of that period? What were the results of the team?

Exactly, I have lived in Greece for a long time thanks to the invitation of my good friend and one of the best basketball agents around, Aleksandar Raskovic, who is most responsible for my transformation and transition to basketball. After a couple of years I got in touch with Kokalis family and Olympiakos and I cooperated with them until their departure from Olimpiakos .That period spent in Athens was memorable for me, both in private and business life since I managed to find my own way to success in the world of basketball.

At the beginning of the new millennium you decided to return to Yugoslavia and first collaborated with a football club from lower leagues and then worked as an adviser of FC Sutjeska Niksic president (First Division). However, you were introduced to basketball fans as the general manager of BC Niksic who have managed to bring them to the finals of the Montenegrin Cup in 2005. Was that success essential for the future decision to focus more on basketball?

I will have to correct you on this. I became the official part of KK Niksics management in 2007, and I was only an advisor during the period 2004 2006. With Niksic, I had lots of success. The 1988-1990 born kids were one of the most talented generations in the region and were champions of Montenegro. Niksic has participated in the F4 of Montenegrin Cup for the first time in its history and played in the semifinals of the national championship, but most importantly for me is that we have brought to light a passionately gifted generation and that most of these players still play perfectly in their new clubs: Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) (Mornar), Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) (Buducnost), Nikola Djokovic (190-SG-89) and Nikola Pavlicevic (192-SG-88) (Lovcen), Goran Gajovic (199-SF-88, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) (Hercegovac), and brothers Maksim Sturanovic (209-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Aleksandar Sturanovic (208-FC-89, agency: Beo Basket) as well as Darko Kastratovic (189-PG-88, agency: BeoExcell) (Borac Nektar) ...

You also worked in te management of KK Junior from Podgorica, which has produced some of the greatest talents of the moment, such as Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) and Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket). How good was the collaboration with the well known basketball worker Jadranko Vujacic (206-C-57)?

Yes, but I have to mention also my friends Vlatko Vlahovic and Dejan Vukmanovic because the result of our collaboration is Zlatibor basketball camp in which I am also proud. Every year there are approximately 200 students, campers from all over Europe. With my great friend Jadranko Vujacic who made players such as Nikola Mirotic, Marko Todorovic (203-F-92), Nikola Ivanovic I have a great collaborations and our friendship binds us. Jadran proved himself long time ago in it facilitates greatly the collaboration with him.

When did you decide to try yourself as a professional players agent and create an agency called DELFI Group? Who were your first partners?

As I mentioned before, Aleksandar Raskovic and David Bauman are two guys to be blamed for my success. They infected me with a basketball virus.

Who were your first clients? Do you remember the first transfer you made?

Initially I worked with a young and unknown players, like everyone else do at the beginning, and slowly I arrived to today's situation, to represent over 100 players. My first big client was Mirko Milicevic (209-C-67) and the transfers were his moves from AEK to Patra, and then to the Turkish PTT from Ankara.

Who is currently your most valuable player? Could you inform us about some transfers that are close to be made?

I do not want to ooffend someone so I can just tell you that through the DELFI agency for these 20-odd years, paraded over 1500 players, and I'm very proud of some young players that performed well and started playing later some basketball. As far as the transfers are concerned, the last transfer are related to the transition of Aleksandar Radulovic (207-C-84) from Zrinjski to Teodor and Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) from the Herzegovac to Zrinjski. There are also interested clubs for some other players but the deals are still far away from realization. Currently the most interesting young player seems to be Filip Barovic who plays great this year for Mornar.

After BC Niksic you worked in Mogren, Budva and Primorje so you seem to be the right person for this question- how the Montenegrin basketball progressed in the last five years, after the independence? Is there any shift for the better?

In addition to the success with BC Niksic, I am also proud on my experience in KK Budva, I made perhaps the biggest success when we managed to win the first place in the Second League of Montenegro and the first place in Montenegro 1B league in two seasons. We had only one defeat in two years. Unfortunately, I can not be proud on my work with Mogren and Primorje as I fought to avoid relegation with both teams. Montenegrin basketball after the independence in 2006 unfortunately, in my opinion, is not going in the right direction. Besides Buducnost, which is a leader in Montenegro, KK Mornar, club with perhaps the best program in the creation of young players, and and ambitious clubs such as KK Podgorica and Lovcen, there is nothing or very little left. I have to mention that the vast majority of clubs are fight to avoid bancrupcy, almost every year we have a club that does not end the competition. This year there is KK Mogren, last year it was Ljubovic from Podgorica and two years ago there was Niksic....Some clubs do not respect the signed contracts with players and its often the subject of litigation.

What are the main problems in Montenegrin basketball and in basketball leagues in Montenegro?

In my humble opinion, the biggest problem is bad coaching in younger selections. Our youth coaches have a low educational profile. I had the impression that some clubs existed only because of membership fees charged to their young players/basketball students and not do anything to upgrade them basketball wise. For example in Montenegro we had last year a situation that we were the only country in Europe that did not have any younger female selection in any European competition. We had only 34 registered professional women players, which, you would agree, is devastating.

Is there a solution for these problems?

There are problems and there will always be problems but the only solution is to work HARD!

Thank you for this interview. Eurobasket.com wishes you a lot of success in your work and personal life.

Thank you for the kind wishes and to the dedicated space on your pages. I wish you a lot of success too.

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NAIA

D2 Top 25 ranking

Top 25 Ranking

1. Bluefield
2. Ave Maria

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NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.9

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	28.9
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	28.0
3. James, Miami Heat	27.7
4. Love, Minnesota T.	25.5
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	23.7
6. Rose, Chicago B.	22.5
7. Wade, Miami Heat	22.4
8. Williams, New J.	22.0
9. Ellis, Golde S.	22.0
10. Aldridge, Portlan.	21.6

Rebounds Per Game

Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15

1. Howard, Orlando M.	15.0
2. Love, Minnesota T.	13.8
3. Bynum, LA Lakers	12.6
4. Varejao, Clevelan.	11.5
5. Cousins, Sacramen.	11.2
6. Griffin, LA Clipp.	11.2
7. Humphries, New J.	10.6
8. Gortat, Phoenix	10.6
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.5
10. Noah, Chicago B.	10.4

Assists Per Game

Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.9
2. Rondo, Boston C.	10.0
3. Calderon, Toron.	8.7
4. Paul, LA Clippers	8.5
5. Rubio, Minnesot.	8.2
6. Williams, New J.	8.1
7. Parker, San A.	7.9
8. Rose, Chicago B.	7.8
9. Wall, Washington W.	7.8
10. Conley, Memphis G.	7.3

Steals Per Game

Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Conley, Memphis G.	2.6
2. Paul, LA Clippers	2.3
3. Rubio, Minnesot.	2.2
4. Iguodala, Philadel.	1.9
5. Shumpert, New Y.	1.9
6. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
8. Lowry, Houston R.	1.8
9. James, Miami Heat	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.	2.6
3. Jordan, LA Clippers	2.4
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.2
5. Gasol, Memphis G.	2.1
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.1
7. Smith, Atlanta H.	2.0
8. Dalembert, Houst.	1.9
9. Hibbert, Indiana P.	1.8
10. Biyombo, Charlott.	1.8

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Philadelph.76		24-17
2. Boston C.		21-18
3. New York K.		18-22
4. New Jersey N.		14-27
5. Toronto R.		13-26
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		33-9
2. Indiana P.		23-14
3. Milwaukee B.		16-24
4. Cleveland C.		15-23
5. Detroit P.		14-26
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		30-9
2. Orlando M.		26-15
3. Atlanta H.		23-17
4. Washington W.		9-29
5. Charlotte B.		5-33
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		31-9
2. Denver N.		23-18
3. Minnesota T.		21-20
4. Utah Jazz		19-20
5. Portland TB		19-21
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		24-16
2. LA Clippers		23-15
3. Phoenix Suns		18-21
4. Golde State W.		15-21
5. Sacramento K.		14-26
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		26-13
2. Memphis G.		23-15
3. Dallas M.		23-19
4. Houston R.		21-19
5. N.Orleans H.		9-31

Hornets expected to sign center Jeff Foote to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The New Orleans Hornets are expected to sign 7-foot center Jeff Foote (7'0''-C-88, college: Cornell) to a 10-day contract on Friday, according to league sources.

Foote played for the Springfield Armor in the NBA Development League and averaged 14.8 points and 8.6 rebounds after 29 games. Foote played at Cornell and was a first team All-Ivy selection in 2010. But he went undrafted in the 2010 NBA draft.

Foote is expected to provide help off the bench for the Hornets. Starting center Emeka Okafor (6'9''-F/C-82, college: Connecticut) is still sidelined with a sore left knee.

Courtesy of www.nola.com

Nets sign F Gerald Green to second 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets have signed Gerald Green (6'8''-G/F-86) to a second 10-day contract.

General Manager Billy King announced the deal on Thursday.

Green has averaged 5.6 points and 2.0 rebounds in five games since signing the first contract Feb. 27. He has averaged 18.6 minutes.

Prior to the deal with the Nets, Green was named MVP of the 2012 D-League All Star Game. He played in 22 games for the Los Angeles D-Fenders, averaging 19.1 points and 4.6 rebounds in 30.6 minutes. The 6-foot-8 forward won the 2007 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. He has played with Boston, Houston, Minnesota and Dallas in his NBA career.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Celtics don't expect big trade - by Eurobasket News
Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge said Thursday he wasn't close to making any trades as the March 15 deadline nears.

'Nothing is even close. As of right now we have nothing close to happening,' Ainge said on Boston sports radio station WEEI. 'It's not from a lack of trying. Not necessarily to make major changes but to make small changes at least.

'But we still have a long time before March 15 to see if we can do something to help our team.'

Earlier in the day, coach Doc Rivers echoed that sentiment, telling WEEI he didn't expect any big trade and 'wouldn't be shocked if nothing came down.'

Rajon Rondo's name has come up in recent trade rumors but both Ainge and Rivers said recently the team wasn't shopping its star point guard.

If the Celtics don't make a major trade, they potentially face a big rebuilding process in the offseason. The contracts of Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) ($21 million), Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) ($10 million) and Jermaine O'Neal (6'11''-F/C-78) ($6 million) are coming off the books, freeing up plenty of cap room for Boston to lure free agents to come play with Paul Pierce and Rondo.

'We have some good pieces,' Ainge said. 'We have some players still under contract that we really like on the roster, more than we did back in the 2003-04 era [when Ainge first arrived in Boston]. Completely rebuild? I'm not sure we need to do that.'

Rivers acknowledged that his roster could look entirely different this summer.

'We are going to make changes,' Rivers told Colin Cowherd on 'The Herd.' 'I don't think we have to make them this trade deadline. We saw this coming. Danny Ainge is a great GM and we all saw it coming. We know this summer we'll be able to get under the cap, we'll be able to do a lot of moves. This could be one of the best drafts of the last 10-15 years. There's time.

'When you look at Miami, you say 'Whoa, they're an amazing basketball team.' Are they beatable? We'll find out when the playoffs start.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Blake Griffin suffers left ankle sprain - by Eurobasket News
Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) suffered a mild sprained left ankle and a sore left knee after Nets forward Kris Humphries barreled into the Clippers All-Star power forward with 2:53 left.

Griffin went after a defensive rebound when Humphries tried to chase down the ball, but instead took out Griffin near the Clippers' bench.

Griffin went down hard on the court. Mo Williams took exception and pushed Humphries, earning a technical foul in the process.

'I had a rebound and I guess he wanted to dive after it and took my legs out, rolled my ankle and rolled my knee,' said Griffin, who finished with 28 points and 17 rebounds. 'The knee is good, but the ankle might be a little bit swollen, But it won't be anything that holds me back. I'll get some treatment on it tomorrow and be ready to go.'

The Clippers play the Spurs in San Antonio Friday, the last of a six-game, 10-day trip.

'I'm playing in that game,' Griffin said. 'I will be fine.'

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Report: Rockets, Warriors interested in rental trades for Dwight Howard - by Eurobasket News
Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) has made it clear all along that if he leaves Orlando, there are three teams hed like to play for - the New Jersey Nets, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks.

But there are other teams out there interested in trading for the superstar big man anyway, even if he wont sign an extension past this season. The Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors are open to making rental moves for Howard, according to Ken Berger of CBS.

The Rockets have been trying to get an All-Star caliber big man for years, most notably attempting to get Pau Gasol in the three-way Chris Paul blockbuster that was shot down back in December. They remain in pursuit of the Lakers big man, but theyre also interested in Howard if the Magic are willing to swing a deal.

The Warriors are a strange match for Howard - unlike the 21-19 Rockets, theyre most likely well out of playoff contention at 15-21, still in long-term rebuilding mode. Their interest in Howard indicates they want more than just a six-week rental, and perhaps they have a plan in the works to convice Superman to stay in the Bay Area long-term.

The Magic, who sit third in the Eastern Conference right now at 25-15, have to make a decision soon - the trade deadline is now only a week away.

Courtesy of tracking.si.com

Blazers, Pacers talk Jamal Crawford trade - by Eurobasket News
Ken Berger of CBSSports.com reported Thursday that the Portland Trail Blazers were seeking a first round pick in a trade package for guard Jamal Crawford (6'5''-G-80, college: Michigan). Potential suitors included the Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Clippers. Add to that list the Indiana Pacers.

A league source with knowledge of the situation told CBSSports.com later Thursday that reported talks between the Blazers and Pacers are 'legitimate' and have included a scenario that would send Crawford to Indiana for guard A.J. Price and a 2012 first round pick. Indiana has sufficient salary cap space to absorb Crawford's contract without matching salaries.

The Pacers were first linked to interest in trading for Crawford by ESPN.com and reportedly had interest in Crawford's services back in December, before the Seattle native elected to sign with the Blazers after also considering the New York Knicks and Sacramento Kings. Crawford's name has surfaced in rumors since shortly after he became trade-eligible on March 1.

Indiana, the source said, is hesitant to part with a first round pick, given the quality and depth of this year's draft pool as well as Crawford's contract situation. Indeed, trading for Crawford and his $5 million salary amounts to a low-risk 2-month rental.

Crawford's player option for 2012-2013 -- and the uncertainty that goes with it -- could be hurting his value during early trade talks.

'The first team to give Portland a first round pick for Crawford will have him,' the source predicted.

Crawford's Portland tenure hasn't worked out as expected. The Blazers are currently in the Northwest Division basement and Crawford has seen his role change and playing time vacillate due to Nicolas Batum's promotion to starting two guard and the ongoing struggles of point guard Raymond Felton.

There are links between Indiana and Portland executives. Indiana's director of player personnel Kevin Pritchard previously served as GM for the Blazers, before being fired on the night of the 2010 NBA Draft. Pritchard's hand-picked director of college scouting, Chad Buchanan, is currently serving as Acting GM for the Blazers, after previous GM Rich Cho was fired in May 2011.

Crawford, 31, is averaging 14.3 points and 3.8 assists in 26.8 minutes per game for the Blazers this season.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Magic end Bulls' 8-game win streak - by Eurobasket News
Chicago B. - Orlando M. 94-99
Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) had 29 points and 18 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 99-94 win over the Bulls on Thursday, snapping Chicago's eight-game winning streak. Chicago twice overcame double-digit deficits and led 91-89 with 2:56 to play after Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) passed to Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) for a jumper. Orlando responded with an 8-1 run started by Jameer Nelson's lob to Howard for a dunk. Ryan Anderson hit a 3 and a pair of free throws in the game-deciding rally. The Magic bounced back from a 100-84 loss at Charlotte, beating the league-best Bulls two nights after losing to the last-place Bobcats. Boozer led the Bulls with 26 points. Rose added 17 points and nine assists, but shot just 6 for 22 from the field. Jason Richardson scored 18 points and hit four 3-pointers for the Magic. Orlando hit 11 3-pointers. Orlando led by 10 early in the fourth quarter before Chicago tied the game with a nine-point run. Boozer scored eight points in the first three minutes of the quarter. The Magic jumped out to a 17-point lead in the first quarter after a conventional three-point play finished by Howard capped an 11-point Orlando run. Orlando shot 15 for 20 and hit six 3-pointers in the opening period. The Magic still led by 15 after Howard put in a lob from Hedo Turkoglu with 1:58 to go in the first half. Howard scored 19 points before the break. Kyle Korver scored eight straight Chicago points to keep the Bulls in the game, then Chicago reeled off the last 10 points of the quarter to gain the momentum heading into the break. Luol Deng hit a wide-open 3 after an offensive rebound by Joakim Noah, cutting the Orlando lead to single digits for the first time since midway through the first quarter. Nelson threw away a pass and Rose hit a running 3 as the half expired, drawing Chicago within 57-52. In the third quarter, Boozer capped an 8-2 run with a short jumper that gave Chicago its first lead of the game. Orlando responded with a 13-4 run to end the quarter, the last six of its points coming on back-to-back Richardson 3-pointers. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - Dallas M. 96-94
The Phoenix Suns finally got the best of the Dallas Mavericks. Barely. Jared Dudley (6'7''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) scored 12 of his 18 points in a third-quarter comeback and Phoenix held on to beat Dallas 96-94 on Thursday night, the Suns' first victory over the Mavericks in nine tries, four this season. 'This is definitely big for us,' Dudley said. 'We've struggled against this more than any other team, especially at home.' Dallas blew out the Suns in Phoenix 122-99 on Jan. 30. Grant Hill (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) scored 10 of his 15 points in the second half for Phoenix, but missed two free throws with 15.4 seconds left. Dallas had two chances after that, but Rodrigue Beaubois (6'1''-G-88, agency: Court Side) missed a driving layup, then couldn't hit an open 18-foot jumper at the buzzer. 'You are not always going to get your star players the shot at the end because they attract so much attention,' Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said, explaining the last play. 'That is one of the reasons Rodrigue got so wide open.' One player who wondered why he wasn't in the game at the end was sharpshooter Jason Terry. 'I can't check myself in and out of the game,' he said. 'You got to ask the person who didn't have me in the game. Ask him his thoughts on why I wasn't in the game. What I think doesn't matter.' Asked why Terry wasn't in the game Carlisle simply said 'coach's decision.' Marcin Gortat added 16 points and 12 rebounds as the Suns won their fourth straight home game, their longest streak in nearly two years. Steve Nash had 11 points and 11 assists. Vince Carter and Dirk Nowitzki had 18 points apiece for Dallas in the Mavericks' fifth road loss in a row. Phoenix, coming off a loss at Oklahoma City the previous night, outscored the Mavericks 31-8 over a stretch late in the third quarter and early in the fourth, erasing a 12-point deficit to go up by 11. 'We got the pace of the game up where we wanted it,' Suns coach Alvin Gentry said. 'Once again we came up with stops, which is really important to run off misses as opposed to taking the ball and running off makes. We had the game at the tempo where we wanted it and we were able to score.' Nash said the game was crucial as the Suns try to climb into contention for a playoff berth. 'We couldn't lose both of these (Oklahoma City and Dallas) and stay in the playoff picture,' he said. 'It's an early crunch time for us. We've got to keep crawling back to that eight-nine-ten spots and try to give ourselves a chance to sneak in there.' The Suns had an 18-4 outburst over the final 4 minutes of the third quarter to take a 78-76 lead entering the fourth. Phoenix added to the onslaught with a 13-4 run to start the final quarter. Sebastian Telfair made a 3-pointer, then Shannon Brown's thunderous dunk on a rebound put the Suns up 90-80. Hakim Warrick capped the outburst by making one of two free throws. But the Suns failed to score in the final 2:46 after Warrick made one of two free throws to put Phoenix ahead 96-87. Jason Kidd sank his third 3-pointer and Nowitzki's 14-footer cut the lead to 96-92 with 1:01 to play. Gortat scored on a layup but was called for an offensive foul. That led to Nowitzki's inside basket that cut the lead to 96-94 with 25 seconds left. Hill was fouled, but missed both free throws and Dallas called a timeout with 14.3 seconds to go. Beaubois drove the lane but his shot in traffic was off the mark. The ball was knocked out of bounds, and after referees reviewed the replay, the ball was awarded to Dallas with 2.5 seconds left. Beaubois then misfired from 18 feet and Phoenix escaped with its sixth win in eight games. 'This was just a mental breakdown by our team,' Carter said. Dallas led 72-60 after Lamar Odom's 3-pointer with 4:43 left in the third quarter and was up 74-63 on his dunk with 3:59 to go. The Suns scored the next 11 to tie it 74-74 on Dudley's 20-footer with 1:34 left. Nowitzki's two free throws put Dallas back on top 76-74, but Nash made a 16-footer, then Dudley scored inside with 29.8 seconds left to give Phoenix the lead. The Suns shot 74 percent in the third quarter (14 of 19). Carter scored 11 in a 4 1-2 minute span late in the second quarter as the Mavericks took a 53-44 lead at the break. But he had only five points in the second half. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Hornets decline to sign Solomon Jones for the remainder of the season - by Eurobasket News
Despite starting in Wednesday night's loss to the Sacramento Kings, the New Orleans Hornets released center-forward Solomon Jones (6'10''-F/C-84, college: S.Florida) instead of signing him for the remainder of the season, the team confirmed Thursday afternoon.

Jones went scoreless in 11 minutes after starting in place of injured forward Gustavo Ayon in Wednesday night's 99-98 loss to the Kings. With Solomon's second, 10-day contract expiring after Wednesday night's game, the Hornets had to either re-sign him for the remainder of the season or release him under NBA rules.

In 11 games, Solomon averaged 5.5 points and 3.7 rebounds for the Hornets. Jones is in his sixth season in the league and was waived by the Los Angeles Clippers last month before the Hornets extended him a 10-day contract.

Courtesy of www.nola.com

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NBLCANADA

NCAA1

Kansas defeats Texas A&M 83-66 - by Eurobasket News
The good news for Elijah Johnson (6'4''-G) is Kansas might play Texas A&M again next season even though the Aggies are leaving the Big 12.

The teams are part of the CBE Classic in November on the same Sprint Center court where the Jayhawks pounded A&M 83-66 in Thursdays quarterfinal round.

Johnson poured in 26 points, a career best. Three weeks ago in College Station, he had a 21-point game. The junior guard has three 20-point games in his career.

He started feeling it Thursday, oddly enough, on shots that didnt count. Twice in the early going, a whistle blew stopping play just before Johnson let it fly. Both times the shots went down, and he told backcourt mate Tyshawn Taylor that he was feeling it.

He came to me when he could, Johnson said.

Like when the Jayhawks trailed early. The Aggies led 21-17 with 8 minutes, 54 seconds left in the half. KU chipped three off the deficit, and then twice within a minute, the ball zipped around to an open Johnson. He buried it both times.

Suddenly a deficit was a five-point lead, and the run would grow to 13-0. Johnson hit two more free throws, giving him eight during the stretch.

The game had special meaning to Johnson for another reason. Johnsons uncle, William Couisnard of Gary, Ind., died last week, and Johnson missed practice Monday to be with his family. Johnson described his uncle as a glue guy, a dear uncle, someone I stayed with for a while. Hes taken care of me.

Yet, when Johnson was away, he thought about being back in Lawrence.

While I was here, I couldnt wait to get home and see my family, Johnson said. Once I got home to my family, I couldnt wait to get back and see these dudes. I could not wait.

There was a point when I wished I could miss practice, now it was killing me to miss it.

Johnson made five of seven threes on Thursday and all five free-throw attempts. He had ample help from Thomas Robinson (6'9''-F-91), who finished with 19 points and 10 rebounds; Taylor, who had 16; and Jeff Withey, who added 11 points and four blocks.

Nobody, it seemed, could miss. KU shot 61.4 percent from the floor and made 10 of its 15 three-pointers. The Aggies packed their defense to challenge Robinson and Withey, and the Jayhawks made them pay from deep.

Even Robinson stepped outside to hit two threes. He had made only four in his career, all this season, entering the game.

When Robinson hits two threes, theyre a very difficult team to guard, A&M Coach Billy Kennedy said.

The Aggies looked spent. Their opening round victory over Oklahoma ended about 18 hours before their quarterfinal game tipped off.

Legs werent in shots, and starters labored in foul trouble. David Loubeau played only five minutes in the first half, and center Ray Turner finished the half with three fouls.

Loubeau getting two fouls changes the whole complexion of the game, Kansas coach Bill Self said.

Texas A&M finished its final season in the Big 12 theyre off to the Southeastern Conference with a disappointing 14-18 record.

Baylor is looking for a different game against KU this time. Kansas beat the Bears by 18 in Lawrence and by 14 in Waco, Texas. Those were one-third of Baylors losses this season.

So, who has the edge? All Kansas has known is beating Baylor, but theres something to the notion that its difficult to beat a team three times in one season.

Its true, Self said. I think its hardest to beat a team the third time. But sometimes the psychological advantage goes to the team that youve beaten.

The Bears topped Kansas State 82-74 on Thursday as Perry Jones III (6'11''-F/C-91) scored a career best 31.

I anticipate getting their best shot, Self said. Theyre so talented its a joke.

Courtesy of www.kansas.com

Syracuse beats Connecticut 58-55 in Big East Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Kris Joseph missed so many shots that perhaps there was something bothering his shooting hand, but he said that had no effect on me.

Oh, really?

You can't shoot that bad unless youre hurt, can you? chimed in Jim Boeheim and everyone enjoyed a good laugh.

Winning breeds smiles, and so does relief. Boeheim fully understands that though Syracuse beat Connecticut, 58-55, in a Big East Tournament quarterfinal game Thursday, things could have evolved far differently.

Syracuse was having all sorts of trouble reminding UConn the pecking order this year puts the Orange on top of the conference. Its an order the Huskies were threatening to trash as they took the lead in a high-octane quarterfinal, appearing primed for another Garden party.

Theyve had a couple games, theyre loose, Boeheim said, almost sounding as if he was preparing excuses. I hate sitting around all week, its very difficult.

But not impossible, as Syracuse showed yet again what this team is all about this season. Joseph and the other senior stud, Scoop Jardine, were struggling mightily, so Boeheim turned to reserves James James Southerland (6'8''-F-90) and Dion Waiters to make all the decisive plays to close out the compelling victory.

This team has been very good down the stretch all year, Boeheim said, and that was the case today.

You dont go 31-1 and lock up a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament (regardless of what the Orange do tonight against Cincinnati) without getting it done at crunch time.
UConn, the defending Big East and national champion, had two wins in this tournament and was starting to feel that feeling again. The Huskies led by eight points midway through the second half. Joseph, averaging 14.1 points a game, hadnt hit a single shot en route to a 1-for-8 stinker from the floor (he did make eight free throws). Jardine missed five of his six shots, had just two points and played 18 minutes, glued to the bench for all but three minutes of the second half.

He wasnt having a great day, Boeheim said.

Waiters, a rising star, and James Southerland the pride of Bayside combined for 12 points as Syracuse caught and passed the Huskies. In a stirring sequence, UConn man-child Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93) made like Bill Russell in swatting away a layup by 7-footer Fab Melo, but the loose ball found its way to James Southerland, who nailed a 3-pointer to pull Syracuse within 47-46. After Drummond missed on a dunk, Waiters (game-high 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting) drained a fadeaway with 5:46 left and Syracuse was ahead to stay.

James Southerland followed with a trey from the top of the key and UConn, sagging, went nearly six minutes without scoring until Drummonds jaw-dropping one-handed rebound slam off a Shabazz Napier miss.

It felt really great out there, especially being home and all, James Southerland said.

Joseph then banked in his first, and only, basket and James Southerland who scored all 10 of his points in the final 7:47 sank a jumper to put UConn (20-13) away for good.

Theyre just a terrific basketball team capable, in my opinion, of winning a national championship, UConn coach Jim Calhoun said.

This was the first game for Syracuse since reports of recreational drug use by at least 10 players, none on the current team, dating back to 2001, surfaced Tuesday. The school said it self-reported the positive drug tests to the NCAA. Boeheim called the story a media thing, period and added, If things were bothering us we wouldnt be 31-1. Nothing bothers us.

The Orange, who face Cincinnati Friday in one Big East semifinal, hit just 3 of 14 from 3-point range and were outrebounded 46-34. UConn, after beating DePaul and West Virginia, got a huge effort from Drummond (14 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks) but a quiet 10-point outing from Jeremy Lamb (6'5''-G/F-92). Afterward, Calhoun said he didnt see any reason to lobby for an NCAA tourney invite, but that didnt stop him from going on about it for nearly 10 minutes.

I would be shocked if they dont win two games in the NCAA Tournament, Boeheim said, at the minimum.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Top 25 - Men

WAC Standings

1. Nevada		12-2 (23-6)
2. N.Mexico St.		10-3 (23-8)
3. Idaho		8-4 (16-11)
4. Utah St.		7-5 (16-13)
5. Louisiana Tech		7-7 (17-14)
6. Hawaii		4-9 (10-16)
7. Fresno St.		3-10 (12-18)
8. San Jose St.		1-12 (9-20)

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Wendell MCKINES
  N.Mexico.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 18.5

1. McKines, N.Mexico.	18.5
2. Olekaibe, Fresno S.	17.9
3. Medlin, Utah St.	16.3
4. Kinney, San J.	15.8
5. Burton, Nevada	15.2
6. Kabongo, N.Mexico.	14.5
7. Joaquim, Hawaii	14.3
8. Story, Nevada	14.0
9. Johnson, Hawaii	14.0
10. Appleby, Louisian.	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Wendell MCKINES
  N.Mexico.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 10.7

1. McKines, N.Mexico.	10.7
2. Hunt, Nevada	9.8
3. Joaquim, Hawaii	9.5
4. Carter, San J.	8.6
5. Barone, Idaho	8.0
6. Czyz, Nevada	6.3
7. Grim, Utah St.	5.9
8. Rahman, N.Mexico.	5.9
9. Madison, Idaho	5.5
10. Brown Jr., Fresno	5.4

Assists Per Game

Jeremiah OSTROWSKI
  Hawaii
  (175-G-)
  Avg: 7

1. Ostrowski, Hawaii	7.0
2. Shamburger, San J.	5.2
3. Shepp, Fresno St.	5.1
4. Tatum, Idaho	4.5
5. Burton, Nevada	4.3
6. Smith, Louisiana T.	4.3
7. Pane, Utah St.	3.9
8. Laroche, N.Mexico.	3.8
9. Kabongo, N.Mexico.	3.5
10. Medlin, Utah St.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Hernst LAROCHE
  N.Mexico.
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Laroche, N.Mexico.	1.8
2. Mullings, N.Mexico.	1.7
3. Shepp, Fresno St.	1.4
4. Johnson, Fresno S.	1.4
5. Shamburger, San J.	1.3
6. Olekaibe, Fresno S.	1.3
7. Kinney, San J.	1.3
8. Burton, Nevada	1.2
9. Smith, Louisiana T.	1.2
10. Kabongo, N.Mexico.	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Dario HUNT
  Nevada
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Hunt, Nevada	2.4
2. Kyser, Louisian.	1.8
3. Joaquim, Hawaii	1.8
4. Barone, Idaho	1.6
5. Bandoumel, Idaho	1.5
6. Reed, Utah St.	1.1
7. Rahman, N.Mexico.	1.0
8. Brown Jr., Fresno	0.8
9. Grim, Utah St.	0.8
10. Foster, Fresno St.	0.8

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NEW ZEALAND

Standings Men

NBL Standings

1. Bay Hawks		2-0
2. Taranaki MA		2-0
3. Auckland P.		2-1
4. Nelson G.