EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/29/2012 1:00:00 AM

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


Standings - ABA

ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Diamond V.E. 2-0
 2. Ringwood H. 2-0
 3. Hume City 2-1
 4. Sherbrooke S. 2-1
 5. Corio Bay 1-1
 6. Eltham W. 1-1
 7. Bulleen B. 0-2
 8. Melbourne 0-2
 9. Waverley F. 0-2
Central ABL
 1. C.District L. 0-0
 2. Eastern M. 0-0
 3. Forestville E. 0-0
 4. N.Adelaide R. 0-0
 5. Norwood F. 0-0
 6. S.Adelaide P. 0-0
 7. South.Tigers 0-0
 8. Sturt S. 0-0
 9. W.Adelaide B. 0-0
 10. Woodville W. 0-0
QBL
 1. Brisbane C. 0-0
 2. Bundaberg B. 0-0
 3. Caboolture S. 0-0
 4. Gladstone P. 0-0
 5. Gold Coast R. 0-0
 6. Ipswich F. 0-0
 7. Mackay M. 0-0
 8. Maroochydore 0-0
 9. Northside W. 0-0
 10. Rockhampton 0-0
 11. SW Metro P. 0-0
 12. Toowoomba 0-0
 13. Townsville H. 0-0
SEABL-East
 1. Sandringham S. 3-0
 2. Geelong S. 2-0
 3. Frankston B. 1-1
 4. Canberra G. 1-1
 5. Bendigo B. 1-1
 6. Dandenong 1-2
 7. Brisbane S. 0-1
SEABL-South
 1. Kilsyth C. 2-0
 2. Knox R. 2-0
 3. Albury W.B. 2-1
 4. Nunawading S. 2-1
 5. Ballarat M. 1-1
 6. Hobart C. 0-3
 7. Mt Gambier 0-3
 8. NW Tasmania 0-3
WARATAH
 1. Bankstown B. 0-0
 2. Canberra N. 0-0
 3. Cent.Coast C. 0-0
 4. Colonial Hotel 0-0
 5. Hills H. 0-0
 6. Hornsby S. 0-0
 7. Illawarra H. 0-0
 8. Maitland M. 0-0
 9. Manly Warr. 0-0
 10. Newcastle H. 0-0
 11. Norths Bears 0-0
 12. Parramatta W. 0-0
 13. Sutherland S. 0-0
 14. Sydney C. 0-0

Regular Season: Round 3

BIG V

Mar. 31: Sherbrooke S. - Waverley F.
Mar. 31: Diamond V.E. - Bulleen B.
Mar. 31: Melbourne - Ringwood H.
Apr. 1: Eltham W. - Sherbrooke S.
Apr. 1: Hume City - Corio Bay
Mar. 31: Albury W.B. - Frankston B.

Central ABL

Mar. 31: Eastern M. - Forestville E.
Mar. 31: Norwood F. - C.District L.
Mar. 31: Sturt S. - W.Adelaide B.
Mar. 31: Woodville W. - S.Adelaide P.
Apr. 1: South.Tigers - N.Adelaide R.

SEABL

Mar. 30: Hobart C. - Brisbane S.
Mar. 30: Mt Gambier - Geelong S.
Mar. 31: Geelong S. - Sandringham S.
Mar. 31: NW Tasmania - Brisbane S.
Mar. 31: Ballarat M. - Nunawading S.
Mar. 31: Bendigo B. - Canberra G.
Mar. 31: Knox R. - Kilsyth C.
Apr. 1: Dandenong - Canberra G.
Apr. 1: Kilsyth C. - Sandringham S.
Mar. 31: Albury W.B. - Frankston B.

WARATAH

Mar. 31: Parramatta W. - Norths Bears
Mar. 31: Hills H. - Sutherland S.
Mar. 31: Manly Warr. - Newcastle H.
Mar. 31: Maitland M. - Colonial Hotel
Mar. 31: Sydney C. - Bankstown B.
Apr. 1: Illawarra H. - Cent.Coast C.


Round two MSBL Power Rankings - by Eurobasket News

1. Lakeside Lightning (second place, 3-0 record) - Lakeside's dominance can be so predictable at times that they almost fly under the radar. But a team with an average winning margin of 31.3 points is obviously really good. They still deserve to be favourites.

2. Australian Belt Scrapers Wanneroo Wolves (first, 4-0) - It's downright scary to think this could be Wanneroo without their two best players. Greg Hire (198-F-87, college: Augusta St.) will come back and Wildcats teammate Brad Robbins might. With or without those two, there's no doubt the Wolves could go back to back.

3. Perth Redbacks (third, 3-1) - Perth's defence was borderline shambolic last year, but they've made significant strides and it's paying off. Will really fancy their chances in their next four games, but a horrendous run awaits them after that.

4. Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers (seventh, 1-1) - While a narrow loss in Geraldton is nothing to be ashamed about, it showed an alarming lack in productivity from their locals. That'll need to change for the Tigers to win the title.

5. Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers (fourth, 2-1) - To beat Willetton with Ben Pepper (213-C-75) only playing five minutes and without one of their imports is very impressive. Will struggle against Lakeside this week if they're again so under-strength though.

6. Cockburn Cougars (ninth, 1-2) - Stephen Charlton's side is showing some really positive sides despite still missing an import. Showed great character to win at Goldfields, bouncing back from two tough losses against really good teams. Should thrash Rockingham this weekend.

7. Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks (fifth, 2-1) - The Hawks are one of several difficult to read teams at the moment, but we're about to learn plenty about them. Over the next four rounds their one home game is against Wanneroo, with the three on the road against Willetton, Lakeside and Geraldton.

8. Mandurah Magic (sixth, 2-1) - If Taylor Mullenax stays fit all season, Mandurah can cause some damage. They'll shoot up the rankings if they can upset Perth this week, which comes before a run where they face the three bottom teams of this list in four games.

9. Silver Lake Resources Goldfields Giants (11th, 1-2) - A home loss to an under-strength Cockburn simply shouldn't be happening. They've got to beat Kalamunda this week because they're unlikely to win any of their following three games against Geraldton (away), Willetton (home) and Lakeside (away).

10. John Hughes Stirling Senators (10th, 1-2) - Describing Stirling as 'inconsistent' is nothing new, but it remains baffling. How a team beats Goldfields by 25 points then loses convincingly at home to Mandurah a week later is anyone's guess. Must beat the Eagles and Slammers this week.

11. People's Choice East Perth Eagles (12th, 0-3) - The only reason the Eagles stay as high as 11th after losing to the Slammers is the possibility of Drew Williamson (196-G/F-83, college: Metro St.) coming back later in the year. Their rebuilding phase is necessary, but it's clearly bringing short-term pain.

12. Kalamunda Eastern Suns (13th, 0-3) - A horrific schedule to start the season has brought three heavy losses, but some relief could be on the horizon as they face East Perth and South West back to back after their trip to Goldfields this week. The Suns are still a real long shot for the playoffs though.

13. Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers (8th, 1-1) - How sweet victory is. Since round 11, 2009, the Slammers had won just one of 65 games until beating East Perth. With a little bit of confidence, they're some chance of upsetting the Senators at home this weekend.

14. Rockingham Peel Finance Flames (14th, 0-3) - With an average margin of 30 points in their three losses so far, things aren't looking good for the Flames. Brutally, their next four games are against Cockburn, Willetton, Mandurah and Geraldton but they'll be eyeing a round six home win over the Slammers.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL


Tough trip for Lakeside (Round 3 men's preview) - by Eurobasket News

Perennial men's State Basketball League title contenders Lakeside Lightning face their first true test of the season when they head on the road to face Geraldton Buccaneers on Saturday.

The Lightning, last year's minor premier, have won their three games so far by an average margin of 31 points but a vastly improved Buccaneers side is sure to provide a stronger challenge in the round three clash.

Geraldton is expected to be without former NBL centre Ben Pepper (213-C-75), who has a knee injury, while it is also short an import earlier in the season but the Mid-West side will be buoyed by the way it overcame those problems to beat Willetton last week.

The Tigers will be looking to bounce back after suffering their first loss of the campaign in Geraldton but face a difficult task against reigning champion Wanneroo Wolves, the team that knocked them out of last year's finals.

Despite the absence of captain Greg Hire through his Perth Wildcats commitments, Wanneroo has impressed in winning all four of its games so far.

Willetton also faces losing Grand Finalist Perry Lakes, which saw its unbeaten start to the season ended by Perth last weekend.

South West Slammers will be looking to continue their positive momentum gained when they ended a 27-game losing run last week when they host Stirling Senators on Saturday.

The Senators, who finished fifth last year, have been wildly inconsistent already this season and will be desperate to put that behind them with a victory.

Mandurah Magic have stood out as one of this season's biggest improvers but face a huge challenge against Perth.

In a game originally supposed to be in Albany but relocated to Belmont due to funding issues, the Redbacks will be favourites after winning three of their first four games.

Goldfields has lost two of its first three games and will be desperate to get into good form when it hosts the winless Kalamunda Eastern Suns.

Like Kalamunda, Rockingham will be looking to move past a difficult start when it faces Cockburn Cougars, who broke through for their first win at Goldfields last week.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL


Daniel Johnson returns to Sixers - by Eurobasket News

The Adelaide 36ers have announced that emerging basketball star Daniel Johnson (212-C-88, college: Pepperdine) has penned a three-year deal to stay playing with club.

Negotiations with his management have been ongoing throughout the past months, with a successful outcome this morning for both parties.

Daniel Johnson on Monday night won the National Basketball Leagues Most Improved Player and on Tuesday night at the Adelaide 36ers Awards, he took home the Mark Davis Most Valuable Player, Most Improved Player and the Players Player of the Year.

Adelaide 36ers Chief Executive, Leeanne Grantham said that signing Johnson was imperative to the Club.

'DJ is an important element of the team and to have him sign for a further three years shows his faith in the direction of the Club, said Grantham.

'Signing key players is a priority for the 36ers, it ensures that the team is strong and capable of producing the results that the Club and its supporters expect.'

Johnson has produced strong statistics this season, averaging 16.6 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game compared to last season where he averaged 9.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 0.9 assists per game.

DJ said that he is excited to be living and playing in Adelaide for the next three years.

'Adelaide has been really good to me, the coaches, the staff and the fans, said Johnson. I worked extremely hard in the off-season to develop my game and it paid dividends this season.'

'I really have enjoyed my time here in Adelaide and there are so many positives to living here.'

'Being so close to the beaches, the city and the basketball stadium, its all a big positive to me.'

To date, the Adelaide 36ers have signed Stephen Weigh, Nathan Crosswell and Daniel Johnson and expect to finalise negotiations with other players in the coming months.

Courtesy of NBL


Spurs sign point guard Patty Mills - by Eurobasket News

Australian point guard Patrick Mills (6'0''-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) has signed with the San Antonio Spurs after last playing in China during the NBA lockout.

The Spurs announced that the former Portland Trail Blazers backup will be in uniform Tuesday night at Phoenix. Mills had been in talks with the Spurs since last week but first needed to resolve work visa issues.

He averaged 5.1 points and around 11 minutes a game in two seasons with Portland. He essentially fills the void left by point guard T.J. Ford, who abruptly retired this month following another scare to his surgically repaired spine.

The Spurs are second in the West and trying to upgrade their roster for a playoff push. They added Stephen Jackson at the trade deadline and signed forward Boris Diaw last week.

Courtesy of ESPN


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Suljanovic's 24 points and 7 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

32-year old power forward Ramiz Suljanovic (206-F/C-79) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Klosterneub. and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9 (Second Stage).
He had the game-high 24 points adding seven rebounds for Klosterneub. in his team's victory, helping them to beat Kapfenberg (20-9) 82-69. Klosterneub. is placed at 2nd position in Austrian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Klosterneub. will need more victories to improve their 20-9 record. Suljanovic has many years of experience at Klosterneub., through which he has constantly improved. Ramiz Suljanovic averages this season 16.3ppg and 6.2rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Gary Ware (205-F/C-83, agency: TSS Management) of Furstenfeld. He is American forward in his first season at Furstenfeld. In the last game Ware recorded impressive 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists. It was enough for Furstenfeld to edge slightly lower-ranked BC Vienna (#-4, 11-16) by 4 points 85-81. This victory allowed Furstenfeld to move up to -5th position in Group B. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 15-13 record is not bad and everything may still change. Ware is a newcomer at Furstenfeld and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Milan Stegnjaic (204-F/C-81) of UBSC Graz (#-3). Stegnjaic got into 30-points club by scoring 35 points in the last round. He went also for six rebounds . Despite Stegnjaic's great performance UBSC Graz lost 80-97 to #-2 ranked Arkadia. But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. UBSC Graz can only dream about fighting for top spots in Group B. They have rather bad season and 8-19 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Stegnjaic he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Stegnjaic has individually a great season in Austria. After 26 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.1ppg (7th best). He also has FGP: 60.1% and 3PT: 44.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marko Djurkovic (205-C/F-87) of BC Vienna - 19 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Joe Werner (201-C-84) of Wels - 17 points, 16 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83) of Furstenfeld - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
7. Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92) of Arkadia - 31 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Benedikt Danek (176-PG-86) of Arkadia - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Larry Gordon (196-F-87) of Kapfenberg - 14 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Marcus Heard (201-F-84) of Gussing - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 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)


*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Quarterfinals: Feni Industri grabs 92-85 OT win against Mornar in Game One - by Eurobasket News

Feni Industrija - Mornar Bar 92-85 OT (1-0)

First game of the Balkan league Quarterfinals between Feni Industrija and Mornar Bar just ended. The reigning BIBL champion escaped with 92-85 OT victory for 1-0 lead in the series. The game was played at Feni;s home court in Kavadarci. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Mornar Bar won third quarter 24-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Mornar Bar used huge pressure winning it 22-19 and getting a tie at the end of regular time. Mornar had the last possession with 18 seconds remaining in regular time, but they were not able to score. They lost eventually overtime period 6-13. Feni Indistrija made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Feni Indistrija outrebounded Mornar Bar 44-26 including a 34-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) stepped up and scored 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!) for the winners and American swingman Jarrid Frye (194-G/F-85, college: Sacred Heart) chipped in 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. At the losing side American forward Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) scored 21 points. Five Feni Industrija and four Mornar Bar players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Teams will meet again on April 3, when Mornar will be the host. The format is best-of-three and third game is scheduled for April 5, also in Bar.

Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 25+5reb+5ast, J.Frye 21+7reb+7ast, D.Knezevic 16+7reb+4ast, K.Nikolovski 12+8reb+3ast, M.Simonovski 12+6reb+2ast, G.Samardziev 2+2reb
Mornar Bar: I.Jelenic 21+1reb+1ast, M.Singletary 17+8reb+3ast, A.Scott 17+2reb+1ast, L.Radosavljevic 14+3reb+2ast, A.Pajovic 5, N.Ivanovic 3+5reb+2ast


Quarterfinals: Hapoel blasts Rilski 84-63, forces Game Three - by Eurobasket News

Hapoel T-A - Rilski Sportist 84-63 (1-1)

Second game of the Balkan League Quarterfinals between Hapoel Tel Aviv and Rilski Sportist was played last night. The Israeli squad celebrated easy 84-63 home victory tying the score to 1-1 in the series. The format is best-of-three and teams will meet tomorrow again. It will be another home game for Hapoel and the winner will advance to Semifinals. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Rilski Sportist managed to win third quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Rilski Sportist to just 6 points in first quarter. Hapoel Tel-Aviv dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 34. They outrebounded Rilski Sportist 47-23 including a 33-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Swingman Corry Carr (192-G/F-75, college: Texas Tech) had a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-PG-89, college: Clemson) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Five Hapoel Tel-Aviv players scored in double figures. Swingman Hristo Zahariev (200-G/F-90) responded with 16 points and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for third game. The winner will play against Levski in the Semis.

Hapoel T-A: D.Stitt 14+8reb+2ast, C.Carr 13+11reb+1ast, J.Skjoldebrand 12+4reb+1ast, M.Naor 12+5reb+1ast, C.Kelly 10+11reb+1ast, G.Eytan 7+2reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: H.Zahariev 16+2reb+3ast, F.Vukosavljevic 16+5reb, M.Marinov 12+2reb+1ast, A.Velikov 8+2reb+1ast, B.Mirkovic 6+3reb+4ast, S.Vaklinov 4+6reb+2ast


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Bowles, Siauliai19.3 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas18.3 
 3. Mayo, Liepaja16.2 
 4. Amis, Tartu Ulikool15.9 
 5. Hallik, Tarvas15.2 
 6. Young, Ventspils14.8 
 7. Vasylius, Siauliai14.6 
 8. Karasev, Triumph14.3 
 9. Lucas, Valmiera14.3 
 10. Veideman, Tartu U.14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas9.8 
 2. McClure, Kedainiai9.3 
 3. Arnold, TTU7.7 
 4. Johnson, Naglis P.7.5 
 5. Bowles, Siauliai7.4 
 6. Rozitis, Valmiera6.9 
 7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool6.3 
 8. Delas, Baltai Kaun.6.2 
 9. Willard, Ventspils6.1 
 10. Fall, Kalev/Cramo5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Rashaun BROADUS
  Siauliai
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 4.6
 1. Broadus, Siauliai4.6 
 2. Maceina, Juventus4.3 
 3. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.4.3 
 4. Lucas, Valmiera3.8 
 5. McKee, Triumph3.8 
 6. Rinkevicius, Nagli.3.8 
 7. Kulagin, Triumph3.8 
 8. Janavicius, Baltai3.7 
 9. Kadziulis, Rudupis3.5 
 10. Mayo, Liepaja3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Tywain MCKEE
  Triumph
  (188-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. McKee, Triumph2.8 
 2. Young, Ventspils1.8 
 3. Akenparg, TTU1.8 
 4. Keedus, TTU1.8 
 5. Virsis, Valmiera1.8 
 6. Long, Siauliai1.7 
 7. Janavicius, Baltai1.7 
 8. Matulionis, Lietka.1.6 
 9. Hughes, Pieno Z.1.6 
 10. Skele, Kalev/Cramo1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo2.5 
 2. Rozitis, Valmiera2.1 
 3. Johnson, Naglis P.1.7 
 4. Gumeniuk, Juventus1.6 
 5. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.2 
 6. Leiteris, Liepaja1.1 
 7. Morgan, Pieno Z.1.0 
 8. Staniulis, Lietkab.1.0 
 9. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.9 
 10. Soloviev, Triumph0.9 


Baltic League Challenge Cup: Lietkabelis clinch the trophy - by Eurobasket News

Lietkabelis - Tarvas 71:82

Lietkabelis celebrated victory in Baltic League Challenge Cup. They lost to Rakvere at home court yesterday but having enjoyed a 15-point victory on the road Lietkabelis came out winners on aggregate.
Tarvas gave out everything they had in this one. The Estonian team got to an aggressive start. They registered a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Lietkabelis however answered with a 30-point tally in the second term to step in front 42:39. Tarvas pulled back ahead in the third term. The visitors once again played attentively in defence and secured a 61:58 lead with one quarter remaining. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) gave Tarvas a needed 15-point lead with just over two minutes remaining in regulation but Lietkabelis survived the challenge. Matulionis and Vasiliauskas converted crucial free throws in the dying seconds to cut the deficit and eventually Lietkabelis gained much needed result. Kaspars Cipruss posted 30 points and 15 rebounds for Tarvas. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) added 18 points for the winners. Edgaras Stanionis (193-G-88) and Adomas Drungilas (203-C-90) answered with 13 points each for Lietkabelis.

Lietkabelis: Edgaras Stanionis 13, Adomas Drungilas 13
Tarvas: Kaspars Cipruss 30+15 boards, Reinar Hallik 18, Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) 14


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

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings
 1. Spirou 16-7 
 2. Antwerp 15-7 
 3. Oostende 15-7 
 4. Aalstar 13-9 
 5. Leuven 12-10 
 6. M.Hainaut 11-11 
 7. Liege 7-15 
 8. Gent 7-16 
 9. Verviers-Pep. 4-18 

Regular Season: Round 26

Mar. 31: Spirou - Gent
Mar. 31: Aalstar - M.Hainaut
Mar. 31: Verviers-Pep. - Antwerp
Mar. 31: Oostende - Leuven

Round 23

Mar. 28: Aalstar - Spirou 91-90


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Copeland, Aalstar21.5 
 2. Bostic, Liege16.6 
 3. Lojeski, Oostende15.8 
 4. Black, Antwerp14.7 
 5. Haynes, Gent14.2 
 6. Taylor, M.Hainaut14.2 
 7. Green, Spirou13.9 
 8. Freeman, Leuven13.8 
 9. Broyles, Spirou13.8 
 10. Love, Verviers-Pe.13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Graham BROWN
  Gent
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Brown, Gent8.0 
 2. Love, Verviers-Pep.7.4 
 3. Mejri, Antwerp7.4 
 4. McLean, Leuven7.2 
 5. Merriex, Verviers.7.0 
 6. Young, Aalstar6.8 
 7. Mukubu, Verviers.6.1 
 8. Booker, Oostende6.1 
 9. Jackson, Aalstar6.0 
 10. Bostic, Liege5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Waters, Liege3.9 
 2. Djordjevic, Ooste.3.8 
 3. Marnegrave, Leuven3.4 
 4. Bosco, Gent3.3 
 5. Black, Antwerp3.1 
 6. Slaughter, M.Hai.3.1 
 7. Bostic, Liege2.9 
 8. Winston, Oostende2.8 
 9. Taylor, M.Hainaut2.7 
 10. Thompson, Vervier.2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Adeola DAGUNDURO
  Leuven
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Dagunduro, Leuven2.4 
 2. Black, Antwerp2.2 
 3. Mukubu, Verviers.2.1 
 4. Wilson, Antwerp1.9 
 5. Muya, Liege1.7 
 6. Slaughter, M.Hai.1.7 
 7. Bostic, Liege1.7 
 8. Bosco, Gent1.7 
 9. Steinbach, Aalstar1.6 
 10. Haynes, Gent1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Mejri, Antwerp2.4 
 2. Jennings, Liege1.8 
 3. Riddick, Spirou1.8 
 4. Love, Verviers-Pep.1.1 
 5. Young, Aalstar1.0 
 6. Booker, Oostende0.8 
 7. Copeland, Aalstar0.6 
 8. Vaughn, Antwerp0.6 
 9. Nivins, M.Hainaut0.6 
 10. De Zeeuw, Vervier.0.5 


Standings - Division II

D2 Standings
 1. Gembo 19-6 
 2. Waregem 19-6 
 3. Fleurus 18-7 
 4. Kangar.-Boom 18-7 
 5. Excelsior 16-9 
 6. St-Niklase 15-10 
 7. Sprimont 13-12 
 8. Sint-Jan Ant. 12-12 
 9. Essor Charleroi 12-13 
 10. Liege II 10-14 
 11. M.Hainaut II 9-14 
 12. De Westhoek 4-21 
 13. Gistel 4-21 
 14. Melsele 4-21 

Regular Season: Round 27

Mar. 30: Fleurus - Excelsior
Mar. 30: M.Hainaut II - De Westhoek
Mar. 30: Sprimont - St-Niklase
Mar. 31: Waregem - Liege II
Mar. 31: Melsele - Kangar.-Boom
Apr. 1: Gembo - Sint-Jan Ant.
Apr. 1: Gistel - Essor Charleroi



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

Standings - BIH League

D1 Standings
League 6
 1. Igokea 2-0 
 2. Siroki WWin 2-0 
 3. Mladost 1-1 
 4. Varda HE 1-1 
 5. Bosna 0-2 
 6. Capljina 0-2 
Places 7-14
 1. Leotar 14-10 
 2. Servitium 10-14 
 3. Hercegovac 10-14 
 4. Borac Nektar 8-16 
 5. Zrinjski HT 8-16 
 6. Vogosca 8-16 
 7. Brotnjo 7-17 
 8. Celik 5-19 

Second Stage: Round 2

Mar. 27: Igokea - Bosna 87-64
Mar. 28: Mladost - Varda HE 67-55
Mar. 27: Capljina - Siroki WWin 64-67

Second Stage: Round 3

Mar. 31: Varda HE - Igokea
Mar. 31: Siroki WWin - Mladost
Mar. 31: Bosna - Capljina


KK BOSNA ASA crushed by Igokea 87-64! - by Chris Mathieu

KK BOSNA ASA crushed by Igokea 87-64!
KK Bosna ASA was crushed by Igokea 87-64! Bosna is off to another terrible start to league 6 in what appears to be a remake of last years disappointing finish were Bosna ended 2-8 in humiliating fashion. Fresh off the dismissal of Dzenan Rahimic arguably the best player for KK Bosna the last few years, these results will make the criticism facing the team even stronger.
In round one Bosna was crushed by favorites Siroki Wwin 62-93. KK Bosna ASA has been crushed by a combined score of 54 points against the best two teams in league 6, not a good sign for anyone holding out hope that they could pull an upset and get to the finals.
What is even harder to understand is the lack of playing time for the younger players on the team even though they have been clearly outclassed in the first two games. Even though the team has been crushed they havent given any significant playing time to any young player besides Nermin Buza. Marko Vukovic hasnt even got into a game and Ali Demic and Srdjan Damjanovic have barely gotten onto the court. This makes little sense as the team was clearly out of both games before halftime. The only thing left for the team this season is to learn if these young players can play at all on a high level. There is no need to run Camdzic, Alispahic, Cengic and the others out against the lower level competition to pretend they can contend this season because they clearly cannot. It is time to build for the future and start making those in charge prove they deserve their jobs instead of the team living off their reputation from the 1970s and 1980s.


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

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings
 1. Pinheiros/Sky 20-5 
 2. S.Jose/Unimed 20-5 
 3. Flamengo 18-6 
 4. Uniceub/BRB 18-6 
 5. Unitri/Universo 17-10 
 6. Paulistano 16-9 
 7. Itabom/Bauru 15-10 
 8. Cia do Terno 13-12 
 9. Vivo/Franca 12-14 
 10. Winner/Limeira 11-14 
 11. Minas 9-16 
 12. Liga Sorocaba 9-16 
 13. Tijuca TC 8-17 
 14. Araraquara 2-23 
 15. Vila Velha 1-26 

Regular Season: Round 26

Mar. 13: Pinheiros/Sky - Itabom/Bauru 91-67
Mar. 15: Minas - Vila Velha 73-72
Mar. 28: Vila Velha - Unitri/Universo 71-73
Mar. 29: Tijuca TC - Araraquara
Mar. 29: Itabom/Bauru - Minas
Mar. 29: Liga Sorocaba - Uniceub/BRB
Mar. 29: Cia do Terno - Paulistano
Mar. 29: S.Jose/Unimed - Pinheiros/Sky
Mar. 29: Flamengo - Winner/Limeira

Round 23

Mar. 21: Cia do Terno - Vivo/Franca 92-89



*****************************************************
  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


District 4 shows early intent in BD Basketball! - by David Edole

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI The Tre Erickson BD Basketball District King League got underway over the weekend with District 4 U13s winning both their games.

On Saturday March 24, 2012, they defeated District 3, 32-22. Kedrick Matthew led the way with 9 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steels and 4 assists along with Jackhoy Walwyn, who added 6 points, 3 rebounds and 7 steals.

For District 3, Akeem Nibbs recorded 14 points, 4 rebounds and 1 steel. Thomas Richardson added 6 points, 2 rebounds and 1 steel.

Then on Monday March 26, 2012, they returned to the court in Long Bush to take care of District 8, 23-16. Matthew again topping the charts with 7 points, 1 steal and 1 assist. Ryan Richardson added 6 points and 1 rebound.

Top scorers for District 8 were Kai Turnbull with 5 points, 1 rebound and 2 steals, as well as Lenroy Grant with 4 points and 1 rebound.

In other matches, District 5 under 10s beat District 2, 12-10, thanks to Malique Malone with 4 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steals. Tedeek Rodgers added 4 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steals and JQuan Bodkin had 4 points and 2 rebounds.

For district 2 Makelsha Lanns recorded 8points 7 rebounds and 1 steel and Isaiah Thomas 2 points, 1 rebounds and 1 steel
District 9 defeated District 8, 23-14 with Dequan George finishing on 7 points, 3 rebounds and 1 steel. Kahmani Caul added 7 points and 1 steel. For District 8, Drexston Gaton scored 6 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 assist.

IN the under 13s, District 2 defeated District 9, 21-20. Demoi Hodge scored 10 points 4 rebounds and 5 steals along with Cymio George 7 points, 2 rebounds and 3 steals for District 2. Andre Rhymers 6 points and 5 rebounds was the best effort for District 9.

District 8 defeated District 6, 28-21. The top scores for District 8 were Kajero Romney 4 points, 9 rebounds and 1 steel and Kawin Robin 4 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals.

For District 6, Lenroy Grant had 8 points, 2 rebounds and 7 steals.

In the under 16s, District 5 defeated District 8 with 40-37, with Kevin Bodkin scoring 13 points, 2 rebounds and 3 steals. Terique Wattley added 8 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals.

Top scorers for District 8 were Glendale Layne with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals and Mackebo Fahie 12 points and 2 rebounds.

District 9 defeated District 6, 29-27.
District 8 defeated District 4, 32- 24 thanks in large part to Mackebo Fahie who scored 10 points, 2 rebounds 3 steels. Glendale Layne also contributed 8 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals.

For District 4, Tahj Malone scored 8 points and 7 rebounds. Kelvin Eleuthere added 5 points and 6 rebounds.


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


Three Canadians Selected To Nike Hoop Summit - by John Gary

courtesy basketball.ca The Nike Hoop Summit World Select team was announced today with three Canadians named to the World team, Anthony Bennett, Brampton ON, and Andrew Wiggins, Toronto ON, will play for the World team which will be led by Canadian coach Roy Rana, Toronto ON, who is a six year veteran of Canadian national team basketball and was recently appointed head coach of Canadas junior national team in 2012. 'Its an incredible honor to lead the World Team once again in the 2012 Hoop Summit,' Rana said. 'The Hoop Summit is one of the premier events on the global basketball calendar and im looking forward to another competitive battle against a very talented USA team.'


Raptors sign guard Ben Uzoh to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors have signed guard Ben Uzoh (6'3''-PG-88, college: Tulsa) to a 10-day contract.

He joined the team Tuesday a day after guard Jerryd Bayless aggravated a hip injury during a loss to Orlando. The left hip pointer had kept him out of the previous two games.

Uzoh had been in the NBA D-League. The 6-foot-3 player from the University of Tulsa averaged 14.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 20 games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

This is Uzohs second stint in the NBA this season. He signed a 10-day contract with Cleveland on Feb. 10. He spent last season with New Jersey after signing as a free agent. He averaged 3.8 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 42 games.

The Raptors (16-34) host Denver on Wednesday night.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Dimayor Final series tied 1-1 - by Cristian Quiroga

Last weekend were played game 1 and 2 of Dimayor finals. U. de Concepcion received to Liceo Mixto de Los Andes y his home Casa del Deporte stadium. Both teams shared victories and put the series tied 1-1.
Saturday night a very closed game which had a little low percentages, especially beyond the 3 pt line. Liceo Mixto proposed an internal and physical game, keeping this way the distances until the end of match, where fewer errors means to get the victory. This way, Liceo Mixto, supported by his national figures Patricio Briones and Patrick Saez with 19 and 18 points respectively 'hit the table' and get a very valuable game by 70-74 which means turn the homefield advantage of regular season place.
Sunday, Universidad de Concepcin not allowed the same mistakes of saturday and and imposed differences early in the game. Liceo Mixto didn't have the same answers from the previous day where they did a great physical effort, and lost the game 94-76. Concepcion had 6 players with double digits in the scoring, led by Alain Laroche (198-F-83, college: N.Florida) with 22 and Matias Villagrn with 15.
Now final series goes to Los Andes to face games 3 and 4 next saturday and sunday. With the current tie, the series is guaranteed at least 5 games.


*****************************************************
  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 DS33.6 
 3. Williams, Shanxi Z.32.0 
 4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.29.1 
 5. Akognon, DongGuan.28.2 
 6. McDonald, Fujian X.27.6 
 7. Roberson, Fujian XX26.9 
 8. Chandler, Guangsha.26.6 
 9. Marbury, Beijing26.6 
 10. Martin, Jilin N.26.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Donnell HARVEY
  TianJin R.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 14.6
 1. Harvey, TianJin R.14.6 
 2. Abbas, Fujian XX14.5 
 3. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.14.3 
 4. Ramos, Guangsha L.13.3 
 5. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS13.1 
 6. Hunter, Shandong12.5 
 7. Lawal, Xinjiang.12.3 
 8. Harris, Shanghai S.12.2 
 9. Boone, Zhejiang C.12.2 
 10. Singleton, Guando.12.0 
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, Beijing6.3 
 4. Hudson, Qingdao DS6.3 
 5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.5.7 
 6. Brooks, Guandong4.8 
 7. Fahed, TianJin R.4.4 
 8. Mengke, Xinjiang.4.3 
 9. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS4.3 
 10. Zhang, Liaoning H.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Tim PICKETT
  Xinjiang.
  (193-G/F-81)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Pickett, Xinjiang.2.9 
 2. Hudson, Qingdao DS2.9 
 3. Smith, Zhejiang C.2.5 
 4. Daghles, Jilin N.2.5 
 5. Marbury, Beijing2.4 
 6. Vroman, Jiangsu D.2.4 
 7. Williams, Shanxi Z.2.3 
 8. Lee, Beijing Ducks2.3 
 9. Lu, Shanxi Zh.2.2 
 10. Anderson, Shando.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 ZhongHao XU
  Bayi Fubang
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Xu, Bayi Fubang2.3 
 2. Morris, Beijing Du.1.8 
 3. Zhang, Shanghai S.1.8 
 4. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.7 
 5. Douthit, Foshan1.6 
 6. Randolph, DongGua.1.6 
 7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.1.6 
 8. Watkins, Jilin N.1.5 
 9. Abbas, Fujian XX1.4 
 10. Lawal, Xinjiang.1.3 


Beijing Beats Guangdong 107-98 to Take a 3-1 Lead in Finals - by Arthur Volbert

Playing at home, Beijing defeated Guangdong 107-98 to take a 3-1 lead in the CBA finals. The teams will meet again in Beijing on Friday.

Morris Randolph (211-F/C-86, college: Kentucky) had 32 points and 12 rebounds for Beijing. Stephon Marbury had 28 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Zhai Xiaochuan had 17 points and 6 rebounds. Ji Zhe had 11 points and 3 rebounds. Lee Hsueh-Lin again played all 48 minutes and had 8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.

Aaron Brooks had 28 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists for Guangdong. James Singleton had 22 points and 11 rebounds. Zhou Peng had 18 points and 5 rebounds. Zhu Fangyu had 13 points and 4 rebounds. Dong Hanlin had 8 points and 2 rebounds. Seven footer Su Wei played 5 minutes and was scoreless and 7-1 Wang Zheng did not play at all.


*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


A1 Round 3: Cedevita loses a game and the top position to Cibona - by Eurobasket News

After 3 rounds played we can already see who rules in the A1 and who belongs to weaker ones. There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with loss of the undefeated team, derby games and favorites losing the games.

Group Championship
Jolly - Zabok 81-83
Very significant was Zabok's (#6) just 2-point road victory against Jolly 83-81. Jolly was very close to get their first win. But it seems they have to wait a little bit longer. It looked good early as Jolly took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. Then Zabok had a 23-16 second period charge getting the lead and Jolly was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 81-83. It was a great shooting night for Zabok especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. It was an exceptional evening for guard Domagoj Basic (190-86) who led the winners and scored 22 points. Forward Filip Kraljevic (214-89, agency: PEPI SPORT) accounted for 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. Four Zabok players scored in double figures. Forward Mate Mrva (195-83) came up with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech) added 21 points respectively for Jolly in the defeat. Jolly's coach Hrvoje Vlasic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Zabok maintains sixth place in Championship Group with 1-2 record. It was Jolly's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings. They share the position with Svjetlost. Zabok will play against league's leader Cibona in Zagreb in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jolly will play on the road against KK Split (#3) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Zabok: D.Basic 22+3reb+3ast, F.Kraljevic 16+8reb+3ast, F.Kruslin 14+1reb+5ast, S.Jankovic 14+2reb+3ast, S.Zadravec 7+2reb, L.Pesut 7+6reb+2ast
Jolly: R.Ross 21+4reb+1ast, M.Mrva 18+5reb+5ast, D.Vrsaljko 10+6reb, H.Puljko 8+5reb, L.Katura 6+4reb+1ast, E.Sinadinovic 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 171801


Cedevita - Cibona 69-76
The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Cedevita (2-1) in Zagreb on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by Cibona (3-0) 76-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Cedevita. It was a key game for the top position in Championship Group as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-12. But Cedevita won second period 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Cibona dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Cedevita's 18. Cibona forced 25 Cedevita turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Cedevita helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for the former international center Goran Suton (209-85, college: Michigan St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds. American-Lebanese swingman Antwain Barbour (196-82, college: Kentucky, agency: Court Side) helped adding 13 points and 4 steals. The best for the losing side was the former international swingman Marino Bazdaric (197-78) with 8 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized Bosnian Ivan Opacak (201-80) scored 17 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Cibona have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of Championship Group leader. Cedevita at the other side dropped to the second place with one game lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Cibona are looking forward to face Zabok (#6) in Zabok in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Cedevita will play at home against Zadar (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cibona: G.Suton 27+10reb, K.El-Amin 14+3ast, A.Barbour 13+4reb+2ast, M.Rozic 5+5reb+4ast, Z.Wright 4+3reb+2ast, P.Marcinkovic 4+2reb+1ast
Cedevita: I.Opacak 17+3reb, M.Smodis 14+3reb, D.Draper 13+3reb+2ast, M.Bazdaric 8+9reb+4ast, M.Car 8, M.Bilan 5+9reb+1ast
gschID: 171798


Zadar - Svjetlost 71-50
Rather expected game when bottom-ranked Svjetlost (0-3) was crushed on the road by fifth ranked Zadar (2-1) 71-50 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 21 points. Zadar dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Svjetlost's 28. They outrebounded Svjetlost 35-21 including 22 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for center Ive Ivanov (201-85) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 8 rebounds. Swingman Ante Delas (201-88) helped adding 11 points and 6 rebounds. Zadar's coach Ales Pipan felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was guard Pankracije Barac (196-81, agency: Court Side) with 19 points and 5 rebounds and Slovenian guard Tadej Kostomaj (186-87) scored 9 points and 5 rebounds. Zadar moved-up to second place in Championship Group, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Svjetlost still closes the standings with three games lost. Zadar will face league's second-placed Cedevita in Zagreb in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Svjetlost will play at home against KK Zagreb CO (#5) and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Zadar: I.Ivanov 20+8reb, K.Vragovic 15+1ast, A.Delas 11+6reb+2ast, M.Ramljak 6+4reb+2ast, G.Vrbanc 5+1reb+2ast, A.Kuso 4+1reb
Svjetlost: P.Barac 19+5reb+1ast, T.Kostomaj 9+5reb+2ast, L.Samadan 8+4reb+1ast, A.Stimac 7+3reb+2ast, M.Batina 5+3reb+1ast, P.Zivkovic 2
gschID: 171799


KK Zagreb CO - KK Split 78-106
Very important is a home loss of KK Zagreb CO (2-1) against KK Split (2-1) on Tuesday night. Host KK Zagreb CO was crushed by KK Split in Zagreb 106-78. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of KK Zagreb CO. The game was mostly controlled by KK Split. KK Zagreb CO was better in third quarter 25-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. KK Split dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to KK Zagreb CO's 36. It was a great shooting night for KK Split especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 58.8 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a great evening for forward Luka Babic (200-91) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). The former international center Nikola Vujcic (211-78) helped adding 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Five KK Split players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Bosnian forward Ante Masic (200-85, agency: Interperformances) with 37 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds and the former international guard Damir Mulaomerovic (195-74, agency: FCM) scored 15 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. KK Split moved-up to second place in Championship Group, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated KK Zagreb CO. KK Split will face Jolly (#7) in Sibenik in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. KK Zagreb CO will play on the road against Svjetlost (#8) in Slavonski Brod.
Top scorers:
KK Split: L.Babic 23+5reb+2ast, T.Dijan 16+3reb+1ast, I.Mimica 16+3reb+2ast, N.Vujcic 14+6reb+5ast, J.Sobin 12+8reb+2ast, S.Subotic 10+1reb+5ast
KK Zagreb CO: A.Masic 37+5reb, D.Mulaomerovic 15+4reb+6ast, K.Simon 9+2reb+2ast, D.Saric 7+7reb+1ast, D.Markota 6+5reb, M.Halilovic 4+7reb+2ast
gschID: 171800


Group Play-Out
Dubrovnik - Darda 81-56
We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when sixth ranked Dubrovnik (4-8) smashed at home 5th ranked Vrijednosnice OS (5-7) 81-56 on Wednesday. Dubrovnik maintains sixth place in Play-Out with 4-8 record. Vrijednosnice OS lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. Dubrovnik will face higher ranked Krizevci (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Vrijednosnice OS will play against Borik Puntamika in Zadar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 171849


Borik - Kvarner 2010 74-77
A very interesting game took place in Zadar. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 4th placed Borik Puntamika (5-7) to second ranked Kvarner 2010 (8-4) 77-74 on Wednesday evening. Borik Puntamika was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 24-18 charge of Kvarner 2010, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for naturalized Bosnian guard Matija Ceskovic (192-81, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with 27 points and 4 assists. Bosnian center Teo Simovic (205-84, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four Kvarner 2010 players scored in double figures. Kvarner 2010's coach Aramis Naglic allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Power forward Marino Sarlija (207-89) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and guard Mario Pesut (-90) added 17 points in the effort for Borik Puntamika. Kvarner 2010 keeps a position of Play-Out leader, which they share with Alkar Sinj. Borik Puntamika lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with seven games lost. Kvarner 2010's next round opponent will be league's leader Alkar Sinj at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Borik Puntamika will play against Vrijednosnice OS in Darda and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kvarner 2010: M.Ceskovic 27+1reb+4ast, T.Simovic 16+8reb, M.Juricic 11+5reb, Z.Pehar 10+4reb, A.Boban 5+5reb, J.Surina 4+1ast
Borik: M.Sarlija 18+11reb+1ast, M.Pesut 17+1reb+3ast, P.Maric 11+2reb, M.Grabovac 8+2reb, L.Drezga 7+1reb+1ast, M.Jurjevic 5+6reb
gschID: 171850


Alkar Sinj - Krizevci 65-63
A very close game took place in Sinj between Alkar Sinj and Krizevci. First ranked Alkar Sinj (8-4) got a very close home victory over 3rd placed Krizevci (6-6). Alkar Sinj managed to escape with a 2-point win 65-63 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Krizevci. Alkar Sinj have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place in Play-Out with 8-4 record, which they share with Kvarner 2010. Newly promoted Krizevci keeps the third position with six games lost. Alkar Sinj will meet league's second-placed Kvarner 2010 in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Krizevci will play against Dubrovnik and hope to secure a win.


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


Etha wins game 1 - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Great game at Strovolos Indoor Arena with Etha rolling to an important victory 77-81 and advancing to 0-1 in the Cyprus League Finals.

The game was close at 1st half with Etha maintaining a safety lead and finishing half with 39-44. During the 3rd quarter Etha took the lead up to 60-72.

During the 4th and down by 12, Keravnos made a comeback, rolling to a 17-5 run and tying the game 77-77.

With the game tied the last minutes kept the fans in great suspense with the two teams visiting the FT line quite a few times.

With Tutt hitting a FT just 4'' before the buzzer Etha won the game.

For Etha Watkins finished with 21 points and for Keravnos Frazier had 17 points.

Next game will take place on Sunday the 1st of April.


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

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings
A1
 1. CEZ Nymburk 30-2 
 2. BK Prostejov 24-9 
 3. BK Decin 23-10 
 4. BK Pardubice 22-11 
 5. BC Kolin 22-21 
 6. USK Praha 15-17 
A2
 1. NH Ostrava 25-14 
 2. Levice 18-21 
 3. Svitavy 17-22 
 4. Chomutov 16-23 
 5. Usti n/Labem 14-25 
 6. Inter Bratislava 10-29 
 7. Plzen 10-29 
 8. B&W Opava 8-31 

Second Stage: Round 8

A1

Mar. 31: USK Praha - BK Prostejov
Mar. 31: CEZ Nymburk - BK Decin
Mar. 31: BK Pardubice - BC Kolin

A2

Mar. 28: NH Ostrava - Usti n/Labem 91-73
Mar. 28: Plzen - Chomutov 79-74
Mar. 28: Levice - Inter Bratislava 78-56
Mar. 28: B&W Opava - Svitavy 66-75
Mar. 31: Svitavy - Plzen
Mar. 31: Chomutov - NH Ostrava
Mar. 31: Usti n/Labem - Levice
Mar. 31: Inter Bratislava - B&W Opava


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Peter SEDMAK
  USK Praha
  (207-C-85)
  Avg: 20.1
 1. Sedmak, USK Praha20.1 
 2. Pope, Chomutov19.6 
 3. Grant, Levice18.8 
 4. McFadden, Usti n.18.5 
 5. Wright, Chomutov17.9 
 6. Lowery, Chomutov17.6 
 7. Hruban, USK Praha17.5 
 8. Longmire, Usti n.15.9 
 9. Houska, BK Decin15.4 
 10. Arnold, BK Pardu.15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Votroubek, USK P.9.3 
 2. Meno, Svitavy8.3 
 3. Pesic, Inter B.8.1 
 4. Naymick, CEZ N.8.0 
 5. Gottselig, Usti n.8.0 
 6. Arnold, BK Pardu.7.8 
 7. Gadri-N., BK Prost.7.6 
 8. Peterson, BK Prost.7.4 
 9. Houska, BK Decin7.0 
 10. Gavran, Inter B.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Emanuel UBILLA
  Inter B.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Ubilla, Inter B.5.3 
 2. Deloach, Svitavy5.3 
 3. Wright, NH Ostrava4.8 
 4. Vrubl, Plzen4.6 
 5. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 6. Sotnar, USK Praha4.6 
 7. Barnes, BC Kolin4.2 
 8. Lawrence, CEZ N.3.9 
 9. Sirina, B&W Opava3.9 
 10. Ames, BC Kolin3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Rashaan AMES
  BC Kolin
  (184-PG-78)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Ames, BC Kolin2.6 
 2. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 3. Ubilla, Inter B.2.4 
 4. McFadden, Usti n.2.2 
 5. Wright, NH Ostrava2.1 
 6. Lowery, Chomutov1.9 
 7. Sirina, B&W Opava1.9 
 8. Klecka, B&W Opava1.9 
 9. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.8 
 10. Deloach, Svitavy1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew NAYMICK
  CEZ N.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Naymick, CEZ N.1.5 
 2. Miklosik, B&W O.1.4 
 3. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.3 
 4. Hughes, NH Ostrava1.2 
 5. Reese, Usti n.1.0 
 6. Grant, Levice1.0 
 7. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 8. Houska, BK Decin0.9 
 9. Pumprla, CEZ N.0.8 
 10. Meno, Svitavy0.8 



*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Ligaen Semifinals: Defending champions Bakken Bears jump to 2-0 against Horsens IC - by Eurobasket News

Horsens IC - Bakken 87-93 (0-2)

Second game of the Ligaen Semifinals between Horsens IC and Bakken Bears just ended. The Bears celebrated 87-93 road victory for 0-2 lead in the series. It means that the Bears need just one more win to reach the Finals. First chance to do it the Bears will have on Monday at their home court. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-87. Bakken shot 27 for 39 from the free-throw line, while Horsens IC only scored six points from the stripe. Bakken forced 19 Horsens IC turnovers. 28 personal fouls committed by Horsens IC helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Joshua Alexander (193-G-87, college: SF Austin) scored 33 points (!!!), 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-F/C-80, college: San Jose City JC) chipped in 25 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next game. American forward Will Harris (198-F-86, college: Albany) responded with 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Mike St.John (203-F/C-84, college: La Salle) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Horsens IC players scored in double figures. Bakken Bears were the regular season champions with 25-2 record. They are also the defending Ligaen champions from the last season.

Horsens IC: W.Harris 33+6reb, M.St.John 16+10reb+6ast, J.Larsen 10+2reb+3ast, M.Sakne 10, D.Sattler 6+3reb+10ast, S.Einarsson 5
Bakken: J.Alexander 33+8reb+5ast, N.Iversen 25+8reb+1ast, A.Jakobsen 12+3reb+6ast, C.Christoffersen 9+4reb, F.Nielsen 6+3reb+2ast, J.Jensen 5+1ast


Team FOG gets new sponsor! - by Thomas Soltau

Team FOG Naestved recently found their new led sponsor. The team has been very happy to announce that Sparekassen Sjaelland have shown their interest.

Team FOG been trying very hard to catch up with Bakken and Svendborg the last few years, but has yet to be able to really challenge the two powerhouses of Danish basketball.

Sports Director Andreas Larsen stated that this sponsorship deal will give Team FOG the 'foundation', which management feel the team needs.

Hopefully with this new deal in place the team will be able to make the finals steps.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yUPOw7fb1M&feature=player_embedded#!




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


Latest games - by Eurobasket News

Springfield A. - Maine RC 100-91
With nothing to play for than pride, the Maine Red Claws could have simply gone through the motions Tuesday night. Instead, Maine remained close until the third quarter before the Springfield Armor solidified their status as a contender with a 100-91 victory before 1,597 at the MassMutual Center. The Red Claws (18-29) overcame a sluggish start to make a game of it. But Springfield used an 11-3 run to start the third quarter and pull away. 'This had the potential to be a grind- it-out game but we just weren't consistent,' Red Claws Coach Dave Leitao said. 'In competition, if you are not giving your all every possession, you shouldn't be out there.' This time the Armor (25-19) didn't let Kenny Hayes (6'2''-PG-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Miami, OH) beat them. Hayes scored 52 points the last time the teams met, a 118-113 Maine win on March 4. Hayes finished with 26 points. Morris Almond (6'6''-F/G-85, college: Rice) scored a game-high 33 points for the Red Claws, who have three games remaining. The Red Claws, who were eliminated from playoff contention with Saturday's 116-77 loss to the Austin Toros, desperately tried to play the role of spoiler, but suffered their fourth loss in five games. Springfield, which had a 50-32 rebounding edge, was able to use its size as an advantage, which caused mismatches the Red Claws had trouble handling. Defensive breakdowns and turnovers enabled the Armor to pull away each time the Red Claws closed the gap, and they never got closer than 78-70 in the fourth quarter. Foul shooting helped Maine hang around. The Red Claws, who made their first 26 foul shots, were 30 of 32 from the line. 'You've got to take the opportunities that are presented to you and that's something we haven't done over the long haul,' Leitao said. 'It's been a long week and a half.' The Red Claws, who seized the momentum at the end of the first quarter, grabbed their first lead at 36-34 on a basket by Cedric Bozeman (13 points). But Dennis Horner (29 points, 14 rebounds) drained a 3 to make it 37-36 with just under four minutes left in the half. A Hayes jumper in the waning seconds of the half enabled the Red Claws to lead 45-44 at the break. 'We were finally able to make some defensive stops to help us get the lead, but we just couldn't sustain it,' Leitao said. The way the game started, it looked like the Red Claws were in for another one-sided loss. Maine lost three of its previous four games, all by 25 or more points. Springfield, which is 6-3 against Maine this season, started strong and vaulted to an a big early lead. But the Red Claw kept chipping away, thanks in part to six first-quarter points from Almond. Maine survived an opening 13-2 Armor run and cut the lead to 21-17 by the end of the first quarter. What hurt the Red Claws was their inability to get offensive rebounds. They had one in the first quarter and just weren't able to get second-chance shots. They let the Armour dictate the tempo of the game and did little to stop Springfield's fast break. Consecutive 3-pointers by Horner and JamesOn Curry fueled the early run. But the Red Claws finished the first quarter with a 9-3 run sparked by Almond and Justin Brownlee. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Tulsa 66ers - Bakersfield J. 102-108
The Tulsa 66ers closed out their last regular season contest on their home court with a 108-102 loss to the Bakersfield Jam. Tulsa used a 13-3 run late in the fourth to pull within three points, but it wasn't enough to overtake the Jam. Dwight Buycks (6'3''-PG-89, college: Marquette) tied his season high with 30 points on 11-of-17 shooting and Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) added 19 points and nine rebounds for the 66ers on the night. On the offensive side of the ball, Tulsa racked up 26 assist, led by a team-high eight from Buycks. Defensively, the 66ers forced 12 Jam turnovers and blocked six shots. Nkem Ojougboh (6'9''-C-87, agency: David Lee services, college: Northeastern) and Ryan Reid each tallied two blocks. Bakersfield, who shot 37-of-68 (.544) on the night and was led by Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, college: Jackson St.) with a team-high 20 points and Brian Butch with 19 points and eight boards. Tulsa is now 22-24 on the year while Bakersfield moves to 26-18. The 66ers return to action this Friday at 7 p.m. on the road against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. *Courtesy of www.newson6.com

Erie Bay H. - Iowa E. 109-87
The Erie BayHawks finished their series of back-to-back-to-back games with a convincing 109-87 win Tuesday night against the Iowa Energy at Tullio Arena. 'You just have to give our players a lot of credit,' Erie coach Jay Larranaga said. 'They had a great attitude. They've all had long, successful basketball careers and they've put their bodies through difficult stuff so you try to think back to those times when you're really, really tired and end up playing really, really well.' The BayHawks (24-21) resumed their March 8 game against the defending D-League champions Tuesday. The referees called that March 8 game with 3 minutes, 29 seconds left in the first quarter after determining the court at Tullio Arena was unplayable. The referees continued the game Tuesday with Erie leading 14-13. 'With it being a different circumstance and a different situation with us starting at the 3-minute mark in the first quarter, just everything being how crazy it was today, gave us a little more energy,' Erie guard Kyle Spain (6'5''-F-87, college: San Diego St.) said. The BayHawks announced an official attendance of 2,479 fans, but there were no more than 1,000 present despite the team collaborating with the Erie County Convention Center Authority to provide free tickets for the main level of the arena. Iowa coach Kevin Young felt as if Erie responded better to resuming the game than his team did. 'The fact that Erie had more energy than we did, it was almost as if they rallied around the situation and we kind of had a pity party for ourselves, more or less,' he said. Former NBA player Joey Graham, who wasn't with Erie for the March 8 game, had a game-high 25 points to help the BayHawks earn the tiebreaker against the Energy (23-21). 'I'm just trying to be consistent,' Graham said. 'Just try to help the guys as much as possible.' The BayHawks, who are 2-1 against Iowa, have a half-game lead on the Energy for the eighth and final playoff spot. 'Hopefully we can build off this,' Larranaga said. Since that March 8 game was moved to Tuesday, Erie found itself in a situation of having to play three games in consecutive days. The BayHawks arrived in Erie Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. after splitting their two-game road trip against Dakota. Coming off a 99-76 loss to the Wizards on Monday night in which it had its lowest point total of the season, Erie flew out of Bismarck, N.D., Tuesday at 5 a.m. for the first of three flights. 'I don't think the guys even slept because the planes were so small,' Graham said. 'We were all fitting in there side by side, shoulder to shoulder. It was hard for us to fall asleep.' The BayHawks took a bus from Buffalo to Erie. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Dakota W. - Erie Bay H. 87-93
Tyrone Brazelton (6'1''-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) scored a career-high 22 points, including a clutch 3-pointer with 21.6 seconds left, as the Erie BayHawks defeated the Dakota Wizards 93-87 Sunday before 2,217 fans at the Bismarck Civic Center. The victory came in the first of a three-games-in-three-days stretch for the BayHawks, who won with only nine players because of the absence of the injured Keith McLeod and Sharrod Ford. It also left Erie and Dakota with identical 23-20 records in the D-League's East Conference standings. Erie overcame a 12-point deficit after the first quarter to even its overall road record at 11-11. Dakota pulled within one at 88-87 when Shefhon Hannah converted a reverse layup with 1:40 left. Brazelton, though, followed with his 3-pointer from the right baseline and later ended a Wizards' possession with a steal. Brazelton was one of four BayHawks who scored in double figures. Former Gannon player Kyle Goldcamp (6'10''-F-86, college: Gannon) recorded a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds, with Joey Graham (6'7''-G/F-82, college: Oklahoma St.) good for 18 points and D.J. Kennedy (6'6''-G/F-89, agency: Interperformances, college: St.John's) for 16. Kennedy gave Erie its final six-point margin of victory on two free throws with 6.3 seconds left. Dakota lost despite Hannah's game-high 23 points. The teams tip off in a rematch today at 8 p.m. Erie then returns home for Tuesday's completion of its suspended game against Iowa. Action from that March 8 contest was halted with 3:29 left in the first quarter because of wet court conditions at Tullio Arena. Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Dakota W. - Erie Bay H. 99-76
Stefhon Hannah's (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri) head was still sore Monday from a smack he took during Sunday's loss to Erie. But what really was hurting was his pride. Hannah didnt feel he played up to his potential Sunday, and he was determined to make sure it didnt happen twice in a row. The veteran guard scorched the BayHawks for 37 points 19 in the first quarter as the Wizards cruised to a 99-76 victory. Even though Hannah led all scorers with 23 points Sunday, he wasnt happy about letting Tyrone Brazelton (6'1''-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) put up a season-high 22 against him. I was mad when I watched the game (Sunday) night, Hannah said. It was bad. I wasnt playing defense. I was playing loose. My man got a big shot at the end. I was real motivated to come out and set an example on offense and defense. It didnt help Hannah's mood that a knock on the head nearly knocked him out of the lineup. Ive got a knot over my eye, and my head was hurting all day and night (Sunday), Hannah said. I dont know if it was a concussion, but it was something. ... When I talked to my mom, she was tripping, Hannah added with a laugh. She was like, Go to the hospital right now. ... My head was still hurting, but by the grace of God, I was able to play. And at an incredibly high level, especially in those first 12 minutes. Hannah made 8 of his first 9 shots including three 3-pointers as the Wizards raced out to a 29-16 lead. The Wizards never trailed and were never really threatened the rest of the way. Hannah has been on a tear of late. In his last five games he is averaging 31.2 points per game. We just had a good all-around game, and I just happened to knock down some shots, Hannah said. ... I cant ask for better teammates. They believe in my shot, they believe in my game, so they give me the rock. Overshadowed by Hannah's offense was Dakotas stifling defense. The Wizards limited the BayHawks to 32.1 percent shooting (27-for-84) while holding Erie to a season-low 76 points. Aside from Joey Graham (6'7''-G/F-82, college: Oklahoma St.), who had 20 points and 13 rebounds, the BayHawks had trouble establishing anything offensively. I thought our defensive consistency was better, and it made for more tough possessions instead of free and easy ones they had off and on through (Sunday) night, Wizards coach Nate Bjorkgren said. Chris Wright (6'8''-F-88, college: Dayton), on assignment from Golden State had 13 points, six rebounds and three blocked shots for the Wizards. The victory moved the Wizards (24-20) one game ahead of Erie (23-21) and gave them a 3-1 edge in the season series. The top eight teams make the D-League playoffs, and with the win, the Wizards moved into a tie for sixth in the overall standings. The team they drew even with, the Texas Legends, come to Bismarck for a critical two-game set Wednesday and Thursday. With six games remaining, Dakotas magic number is six, meaning the Wizards control their own destiny. Another good team coming in, another team fighting for a playoff spot, Bjorkgren said. Courtesy of http://bismarcktribune.com


D-Fenders' Malcolm Thomas signs with Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Malcolm Thomas (6'9''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: San Diego St.) has signed with the Houston Rockets, it was announced yesterday. Thomas, the seventh call-up for the Los Angeles D-Fenders this season alone and 10th in franchise history, is the 44th player to be called up to the NBA from the NBA Development League this season.

Signed to an NBA roster for the second time this year, Thomas, a 6-9 forward out of San Diego State, appeared in three games with the Spurs earlier this season, totaling a point, three rebounds and an assist in 15 minutes. Additionally, Thomas has played in 23 D-League games (14 starts), averaging 13.0 points (63.4 FG%), 8.9 rebounds (3rd most in league), and 2.1 blocks (3rd most in league) in 31.5 minutes.

Acquired by the D-Fenders on December 28th from the Los Angeles Lakers preseason roster, Thomas helped lead the Aztecs to an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance last season, averaging 11.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.02 blocks in 30.4 minutes. After just two seasons at San Diego State, Thomas concluded his career with the Aztecs as the school's second leading shot blocker of all-time while ranking eighth all-time in both rebound average and field goal percentage.

The D-Fenders, who currently hold the league's best record at 33-11 and were the first team to clinch a playoff berth this season, return to action today at Toyota Sports Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Wizards sign Cartier Martin to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News

Washington Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld announced today that the team has signed guard/forward Cartier Martin (6'7''-G/F-84, college: Kansas St.) to a 10-day contract.

Martin (6-6, 220), has averaged 18.3 points and 4.7 rebounds while shooting .489 from the floor and .556 from three-point range in seven games with the Iowa Energy of the NBA D-League this season. He has appeared with the Wizards in the previous two seasons, averaging 4.3 points over 60 games with the team.

Martin was originally signed to a 10-day contract by the Wizards on March 30, 2010. After finishing the season with the team and averaging 6.4 points over eight games, he returned for the 2010-11 season. Martin averaged 4.0 points over 52 games with the Wizards in 2010-11 before being waived on April 6.

A product of Kansas State, Martin has previously spent time with the Charlotte Bobcats (averaging 2.6 points over 33 games in 2008-09) and Golden State Warriors (averaging 9.0 points over 10 games in 2009-10) in addition to experience overseas in Turkey, Italy and China. He has also played in 59 NBA D-League games since the 2008-09 season (all with Iowa), where he has compiled averages of 18.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Trevor Ariza selected the top Dominican playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Trevor Ariza
Trevor Ariza
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Trevor Ariza (203-85, agency: David Lee services, college: UCLA), who plays in the NBA. Ariza could not help the New Orleans Hornets (12-37) to beat the Golden State Warriors (20-28). He scored 8 points, had 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists. The New Orleans Hornets were defeated 101-92 on the road by the Golden State Warriors. Ariza has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 11.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 43.5%, 3FGP: 32.9% and FT: 77.3%. Ariza has a dual citizenship: Dominican Republic and American. Despite he played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, Ariza played also for the Dominican Republic national team in 2005. Strangely he has never played in Dominican Republic.

Josh Asselin
Josh Asselin
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced former international power forward Josh Asselin (211-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Asselin was not able to help Assignia Manresa (12-14) in their last game. Despite his good performance Assignia Manresa was edged 72-71 in Zaragoza by the higher-ranked (#8) CAI Zaragoza. Asselin had a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 12 rebounds in 34 minutes. It was Assignia Manresa's third consecutive loss in a row. It's Asselin's first season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 13.0ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 54.8%, 3FGP: 18.2% and FT: 73.3% in the 26 games he played so far. Asselin is another player who holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. Despite he played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, Asselin played also for the Dominican Republic national team in 2006. He used to play for Naco in Dominican Republic league.

Ricardo Greer
Ricardo Greer
   #3. The Dominican Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was former international swingman Ricardo Greer (197-78, college: Pittsburgh). Greer was not able to secure a victory for Strasbourg IG (10-13) in their game against Le Mans (15-8) in the French ProA. Despite his very good performance in Saturday night's game He was the second best scorer with 17 points. Greer also added 6 rebounds and dished 4 assists. Greer belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #4. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.8ppg, 7.4rpg, 3.9apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 56.9%(107-188), 3FGP: 23.7% and FT: 77.8%. Greer has both American and Dominican Republic nationalities. Despite he played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, Greer played also for the Dominican Republic national team in 2006. Apparently he has never played in Dominican Republic.

James Feldeine
James Feldeine
   #4. Guard James Feldeine (193-88, college: Quinnipiac) led Leche Rio Breogan to a victory over the closely-ranked CB Clavijo (15-14) 86-79 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. Feldeine was MVP of the game. He scored 21 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 35 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Feldeine's second season in pro basketball. Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (16-13) is placed eighth in the LEB Gold. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Feldeine is currently third on the league's list of top scorers with 17.2ppg. This year he also averages: 4.0rpg, 1.9apg and 1.2spg in the 29 games. Feldeine also holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Feldeine is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster. Interesting that he has never played in Dominican Republic.

Alejandro Salas Flores
Alejandro Salas Flores
   #5. Former international forward Alejandro Salas Flores (204-81, college: E.Oklahoma St. JC) contributed to Vaqueros' victory against the closely-ranked Quebradillas (7-6) 90-78 in the Puerto Rican BSN on Thursday night. Salas Flores recorded 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Vaqueros de Bayamon (8-5) is placed second in the BSN. Salas Flores' overall stats this season are: 9.9ppg and 6.0rpg. He holds both American and Dominican Republic passports. Despite Salas Flores played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, he is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster. Salas Flores used to play for Metros de Santiago in Dominican Republic league.

Charlie Villanueva
Charlie Villanueva
   #6. Forward Charlie Villanueva (209-84, college: Connecticut) couldn't help the Detroit Pistons (17-32) in their game against the New York Knicks (25-25) in the NBA. He scored 5 points in 6 minutes. The Detroit Pistons were crushed 101-79 in New York by the Knicks. It was Pistons' fifth consecutive loss in a row. This year Villanueva averages only 1.3ppg in the four games. He holds both American and Dominican Republic passports. Villanueva is a former international player as he played for the Dominican Republic senior team six years ago. However he has never played in Dominican Republic.

Adris Deleon
Adris Deleon
   #7. Former international guard Adris Deleon (180-84, college: E.Washington) was the major contributor in a Gold Coast Blaze's victory against the league leader New Zealand Breakers (21-7) crushing them 94-71 in the Australian NBL last Sunday. Deleon recorded 14 points and added 4 assists; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Gold Coast Blaze (17-11) is placed third in the NBL. Deleon's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Deleon is currently seventh on the list of top scorers and also on the list of most steals (fourth place). This season he has very high stats. Deleon averages: 16.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.2apg and 1.5spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Deleon is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

Kelvin Pena
Kelvin Pena
   #8. Guard Kelvin Pena (193-80, college: Southeastern CC) couldn't help Toros (4-22) in their game against Bucaneros (14-12) in the Venezuelan LPB, despite his very good performance on Tuesday night. He was the second best scorer with 18 points. Pena also added 4 steals in 32 minutes. But the bottom-ranked Toros was edged 80-79 at home by the higher-ranked (#6) Bucaneros. It was Toros' third consecutive loss in a row. Pena is currently fourth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best passers (fifth place). He has very impressive stats this year: 21.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.1apg and 2.8spg in the 13 games. Despite Pena played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

Francisco Garcia
Francisco Garcia
   #9. Former international swingman Francisco Garcia (201-81, college: Louisville) couldn't help the Sacramento Kings (17-32) in their game against the Golden State Warriors (20-28) in the NBA. Garcia scored only 4 points. The Sacramento Kings were edged 111-108 in Oakland by the Golden State Warriors. It was Kings' third consecutive loss in a row. Garcia has been at the team for seven years. His overall stats this season are: 5.1ppg and 1.9rpg. Garcia used to play for the Dominican Republic national team eight years ago.

Emmanuel Quezada
Emmanuel Quezada
   #10. Point guard Emmanuel Quezada (188-85, college: USF) contributed to a Baloncesto Leon's victory against the closely-ranked Lobe Huesca (10-19) 86-82 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Saturday. He scored 15 points and had 3 steals in 32 minutes. Baloncesto Leon (13-15) is placed 13th in the LEB Gold. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. Quezada is ranked fifth on the list of the top scorers in the league with 16.3ppg. This year he also averages: 3.1rpg and 3.3apg in the 29 games. Quezada holds both American and Dominican Republic passports. Despite he played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, Quezada is also a former international player as eight years ago he still played for the Dominican Republic senior national team.

   #11. Former international guard Luis Flores (188-81, college: Manhattan) helped Budivelnyk win their game against one of league's weakest teams Cherkasy 75-69 in the Ukrainian Superleague on Wednesday night. Flores recorded 6 points. This season he has relatively solid stats: 12.3ppg and 3.3rpg. Despite Flores played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, he is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

   #12. Former international guard Tjoe de Paula (185-81, agency: Court Side) couldn't help Leeuwarden in their game against Nijmegen in the Dutch Eredivisie, despite his very good performance in Saturday night's game. de Paula was the second best scorer with 16 points. He also added 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 35 minutes. But his team lost in an overtime 90-99. This year de Paula's overall stats are: 9.7ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.1apg in the 23 games. Despite he played previously for the Dutch national team, de Paula is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

   #13. Former international power forward Larry Turner (210-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Tennessee St.) helped Toyama Grouses win their game against the ninth-ranked Iwate Big Bulls crushing them 91-67 in the Japanese BJ League last Sunday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 12 rebounds. Turner's total stats this season are: 6.0ppg, 6.7rpg and 1.2bpg. He holds both American and Dominican Republic passports. Despite Turner played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, he is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

   #14. Former international guard Sean Ogirri (188-86, college: Wyoming) is a teammate of previously mentioned James Feldeine and both played together in the last Spanish LEB Gold game. Ogirri helped Leche Rio Breogan win their game against the closely-ranked CB Clavijo 86-79. He scored 11 points and added 3 assists in 34 minutes. Ogirri has reliable stats this year: 12.2ppg, 2.1rpg and 2.7apg in the 29 games. Despite he played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, Ogirri is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

   #15. Former international guard Ruben Guillandeaux (198-88, college: La Salle) helped Ourense win their game against the tenth-ranked Feve Oviedo 80-74 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) in Saturday night's game. He recorded 8 points. Guillandeaux's total stats this season are: 8.9ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.6apg. He holds both American and Dominican Republic passports. Despite Guillandeaux played previously for the Dominican Rep. national team, he is currently in the Dominican Republic national team roster.

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

   #1. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports), who plays in the Argentinian LigaA could not help San Martin Corrientes (8-22) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the bottom-ranked San Martin Corrientes lost 89-96 on the road to the higher-ranked (#13) Olimpico de La Banda. Martinez had a double-double by scoring 27 points and getting 17 rebounds in 31 minutes. Martinez is ranked first on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 12.5rpg. He also averaged so far 15.2ppg and 2.3apg in the 20 games he played so far.


*****************************************************
  EBA   

Standings

EBA Standings
Northern Division
 1. HV Hype 10-1 
 2. New York W. 8-3 
 3. NYC Jaguars 0-12 
Southern Division
 1. M. All-Stars 8-3 
 2. Harrisburg H. 6-5 
 3. Winchester S. 6-6 
 4. Washington M. 5-7 
 5. NoVa Hawks 4-6 

Regular Season: Round 14

Apr. 1: NoVa Hawks - M. All-Stars
Apr. 2: Harrisburg H. - NoVa Hawks



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

Standings - KML

KML Standings
 1. Tartu Ulikool 23-3 
 2. Tarvas 18-8 
 3. Kalev/Cramo 16-3 
 4. Rapla 14-13 
 5. TTU 12-13 
 6. Tln Kalev 12-15 
 7. Parnu 3-23 
 8. Valga 3-23 

Regular Season: Round 27

Mar. 28: Tln Kalev - Rapla 99-72
Mar. 27: Tartu Ulikool - TTU 84-75
Mar. 30: Tarvas - TTU
Mar. 30: Valga - Parnu
Mar. 31: Kalev/Cramo - Tartu Ulikool


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Toomas RAADIK
  Parnu
  (202-C-90)
  Avg: 18.4
 1. Raadik, Parnu18.4 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas17.3 
 3. Raley-Ross, Tln K.17.2 
 4. Soo, Rapla17.0 
 5. Pilk, TTU16.2 
 6. Veideman, Tartu U.15.6 
 7. Raap, Parnu15.6 
 8. Hallik, Tarvas15.0 
 9. Arnold, TTU14.2 
 10. Shaw, Tln Kalev14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.3 
 2. Arnold, TTU8.5 
 3. Cricelli, Valga8.4 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.8.2 
 5. Raadik, Parnu7.7 
 6. Ringmets, Rapla7.6 
 7. Shaw, Tln Kalev7.5 
 8. Pilk, TTU6.6 
 9. Allingu, Tartu U.6.5 
 10. Hallik, Tarvas6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Cunda, Valga4.5 
 2. Laane, Rapla4.1 
 3. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool3.9 
 4. Kriisa, Tarvas3.6 
 5. Pilk, TTU3.6 
 6. Dorbek, Tarvas3.4 
 7. Raap, Parnu3.2 
 8. Keedus, TTU3.1 
 9. Veideman, Tartu U.2.8 
 10. Raley-Ross, Tln K.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cunda, Valga2.5 
 2. Laane, Rapla2.3 
 3. Raley-Ross, Tln K.2.2 
 4. Veideman, Tartu U.2.1 
 5. Kaldre, Rapla2.1 
 6. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.2.0 
 7. Skele, Kalev/Cramo1.9 
 8. Dorbek, Tarvas1.9 
 9. Raap, Parnu1.7 
 10. Cricelli, Valga1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo1.8 
 2. Raadik, Parnu1.4 
 3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.3 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.1.1 
 5. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 
 6. Hallik, Tarvas0.5 
 7. Veski, Tarvas0.5 
 8. Makke, TTU0.5 
 9. Shaw, Tln Kalev0.4 
 10. Keedus, TTU0.4 



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


Khimki to host Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Khimki to host EuroCup Final Four at the Basketball Center of Moscow Region from April 14-15. The Russian team will face another representative from the country Spartak St Petersburg in the second game of the day. Valencia Basket will take on Lietuvos Rytas in the opener of the Semifinals.


Quarterfinals, Game 2 MVP: Yotam Halperin, Spartak St. Petersburg - by Eurobasket News

Spartak St. Petersburg reached the Eurocup Finals by sweeping its two-way series against CEZ Nymburk and one of its players registered the best individual performance of all winning squads in Game 2 of the Quarterfinals. Yotam Halperin (196-G-84) helped Spartak to beat Nymburk 86-71 with 19 points on 3-of-4 three-pointers and 6-of-6 free throws. He added 3 rebounds, 7 assists, a steal, a block and 6 fouls drawn for a 31 performance index rating. In that game, Tre Simmons had a 32 index, but in a losing effort, making him uneligible in the MVP race. Simmons had 22 points on 4-of-5 triples and 4-of-4 free throws, 7 rebounds and 10 fouls drawn. Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) of Lokomotiv-Kuban had 22 points, 6 rebounds and 7 fouls drawn to amass a 24 index in his team's 81-77 home win against BC Khimki - but it was not enough for Loko to get to the Finals. Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) of BC Donetsk and Jonas Valanciunas of Lietuvos Rytas, each with a 22 index, complete the top individual performances in Quarterfinals Game 2.

Individual highs: Lawrence Roberts (206-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.) of Lietuvos Rytas, 4 blocks

Curry led all scorers in Quarterfinals Game 2 with 26 points against L. Rytas. Simmons was the Quarterfinals top scorer at 23 points per game. Niklas Caner-Medley (203-F-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Maryland) of Valencia Basket, Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) of BC Donetsk and Jeremiah Massey of Lokomotiv-Kuban each pulled down 8 rebounds this week. Radenovic was the Quarterfinals' best rebounds at 9 boards per night. Halperin and Eugene Lawrence of Nymburk each dished 7 assists playing against each other. Tyrese Rice of Lietuvos Rytas was the Quarterfinals' assists champ at 6 per game. Arturas Jomantas and Lawrence Roberts of L. Rytas, Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) of Spartak and Stefan Markovic of Valencia Basket each collected 3 steals in Game 3. Beverley led the Quarterfinals in steals at 3 per game. Roberts had 4 blocks against Nymburk and also led the Quarterfinals at 2 per game. Nobody registered a double-double this week.

Courtesy of www.eurocupbasketball.com


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


Mallet sacrifices for Maccabi while teams are calling - by Greg

Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.), who just months ago was the second leading scorer in the Euroleague finds himself not playing many minutes for Coach David Blatt as Maccabi gives every effort to head to the Euroleague Final Four. Meanwhile, teams from Italy, Turkey are calling for Mallet and his former team Spirou Charleroi would like to have Mallet back if Maccabi is not going to use his services. Mallet has had a stellar career having won both a Spanish King's Cup in his career and a ULEB Cup Championship to go with his German Championship, German Cups and Belgium Championship. Mallet led Spirou Charleroi to qualify for the Euroleague two seasons in a row and was the MVP of the league last season. 'Player's like Mallet should always disappointed when they don't play and this is certainly doesn't reflect the energy that Maccabi gave him when trying to sign Mallet but the team is successful and Demond is a true leader, ' said his agent Craig McKenzie. 'There are many great players on all the final teams not seeing a lot of minutes. It happens at this stage do to a caches strategy. More should be written about how well he is handling this. How great of person he is and the fact that he goes for the ultimate chance in a player's career-- a final four championship. I don't think Mallet will leave the team like the other player during the euroleague season. There are some things in basketball that are bigger than the individual. Maccabi needs to be unified in this run.'


Breaking: Richard Hendrix breaks down negotiation talks with Maccabi - by David Pick

Maccabi Tel-Aviv's dominating center Richard Hendrix, cut off all negotiations with the team as the two sides failed to reach an agreement regarding the his contract extension, a source told Eurobasket.

Hendrix, who's been enjoying a stellar season with the Israeli squad, is averaging a Euroleague career high of 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

According to a source familiar with Hendrix's situation, the former 6-foot-8 Alabama alumnus, who's wanted by nearly half-a-dozen European power house teams, will entertain
offers from Russian CSKA and Spanish Barcelona and Real Madrid, among other offers this summer.

Last night is Tel-Aviv; Hendrix recorded 9 points along with 7 boards while scoring the game winning tip-in bucket for the yellow-and-blue, beating their Greek rivals Panathinaikos 65-62, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five Euroleague playoffs series.

Tomorrow, Hendrix and Maccabi play host to Pao in what could be the final match of the series.


Quarterfinals, 3rd games: Wins for Bilbao, Olympiakos and Maccabi; Barca advances to Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Unics - FCB Regal 56-67 (0-3)
Regal Barca is the first team who booked a spot for the Euroleague Final Four. The reigning Spanish champ celebrated 56-67 victory in Kazan to eliminate Unics with perfect 3-0 in the series. Barca shined in the last ten minutes of this game to secure the victory. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) top-scored for the guests with 21 points and he was their only player with double digits. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 9 points and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) added one less. In the loosing squad, Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) answered with 19 points. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 12 and their third scorer was Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) with only 6 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 19-17, 15-11, 11-18, 11-21. A layup by Alksey Savrasenko made Unics tie the game, 50-50, with 8 minutes left but C.J. Wallace, Fran Vazquez and Chuck Eidson combined for all points in a 0-10 run that sealed the outcome, 50-60, sending Barcelona to the Final Four. It will start on May 11 in Istanbul. Barcelona made it to the Final Four for the 12th time in club history - third appearance in four years.

Gescrap BB - CSKA 94-81 (1-2)
Gescrap Bilbao Basket is alive in the Euroleague Quarterfinals. The Spanish squad registered first ever Euroleague playoffs victory by beating CSKA Moscow 94-81 tonight. It means that Bilbao came to 1-2 in the series and extended it for at least one more game, which is scheduled for Thursday and Bilbao will be the host again. Kostas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) was a key player for the hosts as he collected 20 points and 6 rebounds. Marko Banic (205-F-84) also shined scoring 18 points, Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) had 13 points and 8 assists, while Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) added 12 pts. In CSKA Moscow, center Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) answered with 22 points. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) (6 rebs) and Alexey Shved had 16 and 15 points respectively. Bilbao had minimum lead at the end of the first period (25-24) and that includes 12-0 run during the quarter. At the halfway of Q2 teams were tied to 36-36, but than Kostas Vasiliadis and his teammates created 9-0 run and went to the halftime with 47-40. Lopez, Banic, Grimau and Mavroeidis shined in the finish of third period and with another 9-0 run brought 16-point lead to their team against the Russian powerhouse. Andrei Kirilenko hit foul shots but only brought CSKA within 71-57 at the end of the third quarter. With 7 minutes remaining it was 80-63 for Bilbao and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. Quarters: 25-24, 22-16, 24-17, 23-24.

Olympiakos - Montepaschi 75-55 (2-1)
Olympiakos is 2-1 up against Montepaschi. Third game of the Euroleague Quarterfinals was played tonight and Olympiakos registered easy 75-55 victory. It means that the Reds need one more win to book a ticket for the Final Four in Istanbul. The hosts limited Montepaschi to just 55 points for the game, what includes 25 points by Montepaschi in the last ten minutes. It means that for three quarters Montepaschi scored only 30 points, while the Reds had 48 at the other side. Kyle Hines (198-F-86) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Konstantinos Sloukas (197-G-90) scored 11 points and point guard Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) had 10 points, plus 6 assists. In defeat, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) scored 15 points and David Andersen (212-C-80) had three less, plus 5 rebounds. Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) was third scorer in Montepaschi with 8 points. As mentioned above, Olympiakos took control on Montepaschi in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 14-12, 18-9, 16-9, 27-25. Visitors opened this game with 1-7 run, but that was all from them tonight. Teams will meet on Thursday in Game Four and Olympiakos will be the host again.

Maccabi T-A - Panathinaikos 65-62 (2-1)
Another thriller was played between Maccabi Electra and Panathinaikos. The Israeli powerhouse celebrated 65-62 victory at Nokia Arena last night taking 2-1 lead in the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Richard Hendrix's (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) tip-in put the hosts up 3 with 15.4 seconds to go and when Nick Calathes potential game-tying triple bounced out, the Maccabi fans let out a sigh of relief. Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) stepped up for the hosts with 12 points and 6 assists. Devin Smith (196-G/F-83, college: Virginia) had 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Hendrix added 9 points and 7 boards. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) had 13 points and 6 rebounds for the reigning Euroleague champion. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) (6 rebs, 5 as) stopped to 11 and 10 points respectively. Maccabi started the game in style as they made 24-13 lead, what includes 11-0 run in Q1. PAO came to 27-22, but Maccabi jumped to 41-28 until the halftime. PAO improved after the breather and closed the gap to 6 after 30 minutes of play and they came to 52-48 at the beginning of the last period. Kaimakoglou and Perperoglou brought visitors to 61-60 with 2:14 to go. Devin Smith scored for Maccabi and Diamantidis walked in the paint, Langford missed on the other side and Dimantidis failed to make a lay-up, but he fixed it immediately with tip-in for 63-62 and 35 seconds remaining. Langford drove and missed a tough shot, but Hendrix got to the offensive rebound and his shot sat on the rim before falling in to put the hosts up 3 with 15.4 seconds left. Calathes tried for three at the end, but he missed and Maccabi grabbed 2-1 lead in the series. Teams will meet again tomorrow. The format is best-of-five.


Barcelona advances to Final Four, Maccabi takes 2-1 lead against PAO - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Electra - Panathinaikos 65-62 (2-1)
Another thriller was played between Maccabi Electra and Panathinaikos. The Israeli powerhouse celebrated 65-62 victory at Nokia Arena last night taking 2-1 lead in the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Richard Hendrix's (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) tip-in put the hosts up 3 with 15.4 seconds to go and when Nick Calathes potential game-tying triple bounced out, the Maccabi fans let out a sigh of relief. Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) stepped up for the hosts with 12 points and 6 assists. Devin Smith (196-G/F-83, college: Virginia) had 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Hendrix added 9 points and 7 boards. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) had 13 points and 6 rebounds for the reigning Euroleague champion. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) (6 rebs, 5 as) stopped to 11 and 10 points respectively. Maccabi started the game in style as they made 24-13 lead, what includes 11-0 run in Q1. PAO came to 27-22, but Maccabi jumped to 41-28 until the halftime. PAO improved after the breather and closed the gap to 6 after 30 minutes of play and they came to 52-48 at the beginning of the last period. Kaimakoglou and Perperoglou brought visitors to 61-60 with 2:14 to go. Devin Smith scored for Maccabi and Diamantidis walked in the paint, Langford missed on the other side and Dimantidis failed to make a lay-up, but he fixed it immediately with tip-in for 63-62 and 35 seconds remaining. Langford drove and missed a tough shot, but Hendrix got to the offensive rebound and his shot sat on the rim before falling in to put the hosts up 3 with 15.4 seconds left. Calathes tried for three at the end, but he missed and Maccabi grabbed 2-1 lead in the series. Teams will meet again tomorrow. The format is best-of-five.

Maccabi Electra: Yogev Ohayon 12+6 as, Devin Smith 11+9 boards, Richard Hendrix 9+7 boards
Panathinaikos: Mike Batiste 13+6 boards, Ian Vougioukas 11, Dimitris Diamantidis 10+6 boards+5 as


Unics - FCB Regal 56-67 (0-3)
Regal Barca is the first team who booked a spot for the Euroleague Final Four. The reigning Spanish champ celebrated 56-67 victory in Kazan to eliminate Unics with perfect 3-0 in the series. Barca shined in the last ten minutes of this game to secure the victory. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) top-scored for the guests with 21 points and he was their only player with double digits. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 9 points and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) added one less. In the loosing squad, Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) answered with 19 points. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 12 and their third scorer was Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) with only 6 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 19-17, 15-11, 11-18, 11-21. A layup by Alksey Savrasenko made Unics tie the game, 50-50, with 8 minutes left but C.J. Wallace, Fran Vazquez and Chuck Eidson combined for all points in a 0-10 run that sealed the outcome, 50-60, sending Barcelona to the Final Four. It will start on May 11 in Istanbul. Barcelona made it to the Final Four for the 12th time in club history - third appearance in four years.

Unics: Henry Domercant 19, Terrell Lyday 12, Nathan Jawai 6
Regal Barca: Juan Carlos Navarro 21, Marcelinho Huertas 9, Boniface Ndong 8


*****************************************************
  FIJI   

Standings Men

Lautoka BA Standings
Lautoka
 1. Bankstown 0-0
 2. Cougars 0-0
 3. Namoli 0-0
 4. Vikings 0-0
 5. West Saints 0-0
 6. Youngstars 0-0
Raiwaqa
 1. Boston Reds 0-0
 2. Boston White 0-0
 3. Bryce 0-0
 4. Macpacers 0-0
 5. Police 0-0
 6. USP 0-0
 7. Veterans 0-0
 8. Warriors 0-0
Suva/Laucala
 1. Barbarians 0-0
 2. Baseliners 0-0
 3. Idaman 0-0
 4. New Era 0-0
 5. Noobies 0-0
 6. Pac Harbour 0-0
 7. Pitbulls 0-0
 8. Saints 0-0


Warriors on song - by Eurobasket

WARRIORS remain the team to beat in the Raiwaqa Basketball Association (RBA) weekly club competition as it enters the final stages, which begins next week.
The star-studded side dominated by the national reps continued it's unbeaten run after beating Boston Reds 32-28 in the final rounds of the men's competition at Eds Court in Raiwaqa yesterday.
Warriors led by national basketball reps Frank Saketa and Peni Sokosoko will play Police in the quarter-finals on Thursday.
In the other men's quarter-finals, Boston White will face Veterans, Boston Red will play USP and Macpacers will take on Bryce.
RBA president Saula Koroi said it would be interesting to see which team would break Warriors dominance in the competition.
He said the tough final rounds of the (men's) competition had set a good platform for the quarters to be held this Thursday and Friday.
'The results were very close and this signifies the intensity of the competition we had today (yesterday),' Koroi said.
'This weekly competition is a good build-up for the Easter Championship. Both the Raiwaqa clubs won the men's and women's title last year and we want all our clubs to be competitive at the championship this year.'
Meanwhile, Ladybirds and Chosen are poised for a mouth watering semi-final in the women's grade next Saturday.
In the other semi-final, Sparks will face Redz.

Results
Sparks 62 Mcpacers 4 (W) QF 1; Mcpacers 45 Police 39 (M); Redz 18 USP 16 (W) QF 3; Warriors 32 Boston (R) 28 (M); Ladybirds 28 Golden Bati 21 (W) QF 2; Veterans 28 USP 17 (M); Chosen 34 Mystics 18 (W) QF 4; Boston (W) 44 Bryce 27 (M)

Courtesy of Fiji Times


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


Petteri Koponen selected the top Finn playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Petteri Koponen
Petteri Koponen
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Petteri Koponen (194-88), who plays in the Italian SerieA. He could not help CS Bologna (14-10) in their last game. Despite Koponen's very good performance CS Bologna was crushed 89-55 on the road by the higher-ranked (#4) Banco di Sardegna Sassari. He was the top scorer with 16 points. Koponen also added 3 passes in 36 minutes on the court. It's Koponen's fourth season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 13.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.7apg, 2FGP: 46.0%, 3FGP: 36.5% and FT: 79.5% in the 24 games he played so far. Koponen is currently a member of the Finnish senior national team.

Sasu Salin
Sasu Salin
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Sasu Salin (190-91). He contributed to Amit12's victory against the fifth-ranked Elektra (0-1) 70-64 in the Slovenian Telemach League last Saturday. Salin recorded 9 points. It was his first game for Amit12 this season. His team is placed third in Championship Group. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Salin is in the roster of the Finnish senior national team.

Shawn Huff
Shawn Huff
   #3. The Finnish player who performed third best last week abroad was an international swingman Shawn Huff (198-84, college: Valparaiso), who plays in the Italian Lega2 (second division). He was not able to help MarcoPoloShop.it (7-16) in their last game. Despite Huff's very good performance the bottom-ranked MarcoPoloShop.it was edged 81-79 in Jesi by the much higher-ranked (#7) Fileni BPA. He was the second best scorer with 23 points. Huff also added 6 rebounds in 38 minutes. Huff has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.8ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 53.4%, 3FGP: 43.1% and FT: 71.2% in the 23 games. Huff is also a member of the Finnish senior national team.

Ville Kaunisto
Ville Kaunisto
   #4. Forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) led Blois to a victory over the 11th-ranked Lievin Basket (14-13) crushing them 81-59 in the French NM1 (third division) in Saturday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Kaunisto recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and getting 12 rebounds. ADA Blois Basket (18-9) is placed sixth in the NM1. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Kaunisto is the league's top scorer and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). This season he has very high stats. Kaunisto averages: 18.4ppg, 12.0rpg, 2.6apg and 1.4spg. He used to play for the Finnish national team back in 2004.

Gerald Lee
Gerald Lee
   #5. International forward Gerald Lee (208-87, college: ODU) contributed to an Prima Veroli's surprising victory against the third-ranked Givova Scafati (16-8) 85-70 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Lee recorded 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 25 minutes. Prima Veroli (11-13) is placed ninth in the Lega2. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Lee has relatively solid stats: 12.4ppg and 5.8rpg in the 23 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Lee played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Finnish national team roster. Strangely Lee has never played in Finland.

Tuukka Kotti
Tuukka Kotti
   #6. Power forward Tuukka Kotti (205-81, college: Providence) contributed to an Aget Imola's victory against one of league's weakest teams Biancoblu BO (8-15) 74-69 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) on Sunday night. He recorded 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Aget Service Imola (9-14) is placed 12th in the Lega2. Kotti's overall stats this season are: 9.1ppg, 6.5rpg and 1.5spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Kotti is also an international player who is currently on the senior Finnish National Team roster.

Rasmus Roslund
Rasmus Roslund
   #7. International guard Rasmus Roslund (192-88) contributed to Srbija's victory against the sixth-ranked Solna Branten (9-13) 76-67 in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) in Saturday night's game. He had a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 18 rebounds in 40 minutes. KSF Srbija Malmo (13-9) is placed fifth in South group. The Regular Season already ended. Roslund has reliable stats this year: 10.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4apg and 1.3spg in the 19 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Roslund is currently in the Finnish national team roster.

Mikko Riipinen
Mikko Riipinen
   #8. Point guard Mikko Riipinen (177-87) managed to help Norrkoping Dolphins to win against the seventh-ranked 08 Stockholm (17-19) 77-67 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He scored only 2 points. Norrkoping Dolphins (2-4) is placed second in the Basketligan. Riipinen has been at the team for four years. This season Riipinen averages just 1.0ppg. He plays currently for the Finnish national team.

Other top Finnish players, who play abroad:

Raymond Hinge plays for Galil Gilboa in Israeli Premier League
Teemu Rannikko (188-G-80) plays for Cimberio Varese in Italian SerieA
Joonas Caven (210-C/F-93) plays for FIATC Joventut in Spanish ACB
Kristjan Rinaldo (195-G/F-91) plays for BC Rakvere in Estonian KML
Roberto Alexander Mantovani (200-F-94) plays for AEK in Cypriot Division A
Antti Ranta (190-F-87) plays for Nottingham Hoods in British EBL3


KORISLIIGA: Justin Hawkins netted 33 points - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, round 38/40: Only one contest tonight. Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) visited Salo and defeated local Vilpas 72-79 (29-32). Quarters: 18-13, 11-19, 18-28, 25-19. Both teams missed some key players, but visitor ToPo (21-17) was shooting better, especially American F Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.), who netted his season best 33 points (1 - 3/5, 2 - 12/19, 3 - 2/5). Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) and Josh Wilson (188-PG-87, agency: Hightower Law Firm, college: N.Arizona) added 10 pts both. Allen Durham (198-F-88, college: Grace Bible) led Vilpas (16-22) with a double-double 25pts/14rbs. Two rounds left out of the regular season.
Vilpas - ToPo 72-79 (29-32). (Allen Durham 25/14, Roope Ahonen 15, John Fields 10 - Justin Hawkins 33/8, Kimmo Muurinen 10, Josh Wilson 10. A: 910).


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


Beeing a part of it - by Romain Leroy

Whats up, everybody ?

Its been a while since my last post. The regular season is ending soon for most of you guys. Post-season and playoffs times are coming quick now. Season ending also means national teams, which is my topic today.

After 3 summers in a row with me FECC coach mates (Yeah,once again giving props to my Blue Nation guys), attending u16, u18 and u20 EC, Im now a part of the French youth NT programme. The French Fed asked me to join the u15 W staff for the upcoming summer. The team will have two training camp sessions, in May and late August, and will play several friendly games and/or tournaments.

We will have a first camp in May, @INSEP, where we will prepare ourselves for a road trip to Germany. We will play the German u16 W team a few times, and Luxembourg u16 once also. INSEP is probably one of the best places around there to work with athletes. The facilities are just amazing.

The second camp will be held in Troyes, France, in August. We will have to get ready for the annual Friendship Tournament (08/30 to 09/01), where Greece, Spain and Italy will be our opponents. Its a FIBA labelled tournament.

I feel very excited to be a part of this, even if u15 NT doesnt have to play any official competition like u16 and others do. Working for your own country is something special. Just like beeing chosen as an assistant coach is a great opportunity to get some more experience. Ill probably be in charge of the advanced scouting, as Im used to do, but the other tasks are not undefined yet.

The will of the u16 Ws head coach is to prepare our generation u15, I mean- to what is the international level. Next u16 W EC, in 2013, is qualifier to the 2014 World Championships for u17. Therefore, we must work hard this summer to help players to achieve, and to be ready to compete hardly in their first EC. We have talented players in our previsional roster. Its now up to us, coaching staff, to make it work.

Talk to you soon, I wish you the best for the upcoming weeks !



Kevin Houston joins Le Havre - by Eurobasket News

Le Havre strengthened their backcourt. They landed Kevin Houston (178-PG-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Long Beach St.). The guard is meant to replace Nic Wise (178-G-87, college: Arizona). Kevin Houston started the season in Cyprus. He played for Apoel Nicosia. His stats read 11.6 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. Later Kevin Houston inked a short-term deal with Cholet. He appeared in four games posting 3.8 points and 1.5 assists per appearance. Last season Kevin Houston played for Heyres-Toulon. The guard averaged 12.1 points, 3.8 assists and 2.9 rebounds in ProA. Earlier he had stints with Rouen, Cocodrilos de Caracas and Saint-Etienne. He participated at French ProA All-Star Game back in 2009.


Tony Parker selected the top French playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Tony Parker
Tony Parker
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Tony Parker (183-82). He was the major contributor in a San Antonio Spurs' victory against the Phoenix Suns (25-25) 107-100 in the NBA in Tuesday night's game. Parker scored 24 points, had 4 rebounds and dished 7 assists in 35 minutes on the court. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 34-14 record this season. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. It's Parker's first year with the team. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Parker averages: 19.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 8.0apg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3FGP: 26.0% in the 45 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the French senior national team.

Nicolas Batum
Nicolas Batum
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Nicolas Batum (201-88). Batum led Portland Trail Blazers to a victory over the Memphis Grizzlies (27-21) 97-93 in the NBA last Thursday. He was MVP of the game. Batum recorded 24 points. The Portland Trail Blazers have 23-27 record this season. This year Batum has very high stats. He averages: 13.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 49.2%, 3FGP: 38.8% and FT: 83.8%. Batum is in the roster of the French senior national team.

Ali Traore
Ali Traore
   #3. The French player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Ali Traore (207-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC). He was the main contributor in Lokomotiv's victory against the closely-ranked Khimky (5-1) 81-77 in the Eurocup on Tuesday night. Traore was the best player in that game. He scored 22 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 30 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group L. Lokomotiv Kuban (4-2) is placed first. It's Traore's first season with the team. Traore is currently third on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (third place). He has very impressive stats this year: 15.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 2FGP: 60.4%(81-134) and FT: 68.5% in the 13 games. Traore is also a member of the French senior national team.

Rodrigue Beaubois
Rodrigue Beaubois
   #4. Guard Rodrigue Beaubois (186-88, agency: Court Side) contributed to a Dallas Mavericks' victory against the Houston Rockets (27-24) 90-81 in the NBA in Tuesday night's game. He scored 14 points and added 5 passes. The Dallas Mavericks have 29-22 record this season. Beaubois has relatively good stats this year: 9.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg and 1.2spg. He is also French national team player.

Kevin Seraphin
Kevin Seraphin
   #5. International power forward Kevin Seraphin (205-89), who plays in the NBA could not help the Washington Wizards (11-38) in their last game. Despite Seraphin's very good performance the Washington Wizards lost 76-88 on the road to the Boston Celtics. He had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 11 rebounds in 37 minutes. It was Wizards' fourth consecutive loss in a row. This year Seraphin's overall stats are: 4.9ppg, 4.1rpg and 1.2bpg in the 40 games. He has a dual citizenship: Guyanese and French. Despite Seraphin played previously for the Guyanese national team, he is currently in the French national team roster.

Joakim Noah
Joakim Noah
   #6. Power forward Joakim Noah (211-85, college: Florida) helped Chicago Bulls win their game against the Toronto Raptors (16-34) 94-82 in the NBA on Wednesday night. Noah scored 8 points, had 8 rebounds and dished 5 assists. The Chicago Bulls have quite an impressive 40-11 record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Noah is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Bulls' roster. This season he has relatively solid stats: 9.7ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.6apg and 1.3bpg. Noah is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Noah is also an international player who is currently on the senior French National Team roster. Strangely he has never played in France.

Ian Mahinmi
Ian Mahinmi
   #7. International power forward Ian Mahinmi (206-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Rodrigue Beaubois. But that was another game of his team in NBA which we would like to mention. Mahinmi, who plays in the NBA was not able to help the Dallas Mavericks (29-22) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Dallas Mavericks were badly defeated 104-87 in San Antonio by the Spurs. Mahinmi scored 11 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 34 minutes. This year Mahinmi's total stats are: 6.4ppg and 4.9rpg in the 48 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Mahinmi is currently in the French national team roster.

Nando De Colo
Nando De Colo
   #8. Guard Nando De Colo (202-87) helped Valencia Basket win their game against the 16th-ranked UCAM Murcia (8-18) 87-80 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. He was the top player that evening. De Colo scored 15 points. Valencia Basket (15-11) is placed fourth in the ACB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. De Colo is currently ninth on the league's list of top scorers. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.7apg and 1.4spg. Despite De Colo played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the French national team roster.

Mickael Pietrus
Mickael Pietrus
   #9. International swingman Mickael Pietrus (198-82, also represented by Court Side) helped Boston Celtics win their game against the Milwaukee Bucks (23-27) 100-91 in the NBA on Thursday night. Pietrus recorded 13 points in 20 minutes. The Boston Celtics have 27-22 record this season. Pietrus has averaged so far 6.8ppg and 2.9rpg in the 37 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Pietrus is currently in the French national team roster.

Thomas Heurtel
Thomas Heurtel
   #10. Guard Thomas Heurtel (188-89) helped Caja Laboral win their game against one of league's weakest teams Asefa Estudiantes (7-18) 89-74 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. He scored 7 points and added 6 passes. Caja Laboral Vitoria (19-7) is placed third in the ACB. Heurtel has averaged so far 4.3ppg, 1.3rpg and 1.7apg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Heurtel is also a former U20 international player as three years ago he still played for the French national team.

   #11. International power forward Ronny Turiaf (208-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) was not able to secure a victory for the Miami Heat in their game against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. He scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 17 minutes. His team lost 90-105 in the NBA. Turiaf has averaged so far 4.7ppg and 4.0rpg in the three games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Turiaf is currently in the French national team roster.

   #12. International power forward Boris Diaw (203-82) is a teammate of previously mentioned Tony Parker and both played together in the last NBA game. Diaw helped San Antonio Spurs win their game against the Phoenix Suns 107-100. He scored 6 points and added 4 passes. Diaw has averaged so far 3.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.0apg and 1.5spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Diaw is currently in the French national team roster.

   #13. International forward Florent Pietrus (202-81) is a teammate of previously mentioned Nando De Colo and both played together in the last Spanish ACB game. Pietrus helped Valencia Basket win their game against the 16th-ranked UCAM Murcia 87-80. He scored 11 points in 22 minutes. Pietrus has averaged so far 2.4ppg and 3.2rpg in the 24 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Pietrus is currently in the French national team roster.

   #14. International center Mohamed Kone (211-81, college: Valparaiso) couldn't help Meridiano Alicante in their game against Unicaja Malaga in the Spanish ACB. He scored 8 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks. His team was defeated 72-60. Kone has averaged so far 4.3ppg and 3.6rpg. Despite he played previously for the Ivorian national team, Kone is currently in the French national team roster.

   #15. International power forward Mamadou Lamizana (207-81, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: Rutgers) couldn't help Vaqueros in their game against Mets in the Puerto Rican BSN, despite his very good performance on Tuesday night. He was the second best scorer with 18 points. Lamizana also added 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) in 26 minutes. But his team lost 74-80. Lamizana is ranked first on the list of the best blockers in the league with 2.6bpg. This year his other stats are: 10.9ppg, 5.7rpg and 2.1apg in the 11 games. Despite Lamizana played previously for the Ivorian national team, he is currently in the French national team roster.


Le Havre and Nic Wise part ways - by Eurobasket News

Nic Wise (178-G-87, college: Arizona) is no longer a member of Le Havre. The American point guard announced that he played his last game for Le Havre last weekend. According to French media (Catch-and-Shoot), Le Havre already agreed with Kevin Houston (178-PG-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Long Beach St.) to replace Wise. Nic Wise joined Le Havre last summer. He appeared 22 times for the club averaging 15.1 points, 5.6 assists and 3.2 rebounds. Wise spent last season in Germany. He was a member of Telekom Baskets Bonn registering 13.7 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.2 rpg for 33 games. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Newcomers Team -11. Wise also added 12.7 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 2.2 apg for 6 EuroChallenge games. It was his first season as a pro.


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


Quarterfinals: Feni Industri grabs 92-85 OT win against Mornar in Game One - by Eurobasket News

Feni Industrija - Mornar Bar 92-85 OT (1-0)

First game of the Balkan league Quarterfinals between Feni Industrija and Mornar Bar just ended. The reigning BIBL champion escaped with 92-85 OT victory for 1-0 lead in the series. The game was played at Feni;s home court in Kavadarci. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Mornar Bar won third quarter 24-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Mornar Bar used huge pressure winning it 22-19 and getting a tie at the end of regular time. Mornar had the last possession with 18 seconds remaining in regular time, but they were not able to score. They lost eventually overtime period 6-13. Feni Indistrija made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Feni Indistrija outrebounded Mornar Bar 44-26 including a 34-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) stepped up and scored 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!) for the winners and American swingman Jarrid Frye (194-G/F-85, college: Sacred Heart) chipped in 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. At the losing side American forward Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) scored 21 points. Five Feni Industrija and four Mornar Bar players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Teams will meet again on April 3, when Mornar will be the host. The format is best-of-three and third game is scheduled for April 5, also in Bar.

Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 25+5reb+5ast, J.Frye 21+7reb+7ast, D.Knezevic 16+7reb+4ast, K.Nikolovski 12+8reb+3ast, M.Simonovski 12+6reb+2ast, G.Samardziev 2+2reb
Mornar Bar: I.Jelenic 21+1reb+1ast, M.Singletary 17+8reb+3ast, A.Scott 17+2reb+1ast, L.Radosavljevic 14+3reb+2ast, A.Pajovic 5, N.Ivanovic 3+5reb+2ast


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


Zaza Pachulia's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Georgians playing currently abroad. - by Eurobasket Center

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

Zaza Pachulia
Zaza Pachulia
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Zaza Pachulia (212-84). He led Atlanta Hawks to a victory against the Utah Jazz (27-23) 139-133 in the NBA in Sunday night's game. Pachulia had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 20 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks in 54 minutes on the court. The game required 4 overtimes (!!!). The Atlanta Hawks have 30-21 record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Pachulia's first year with the team. Pachulia has relatively good stats this season: 7.9ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 49.0% and FT: 74.6% in the 50 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Georgian senior national team.

Giorgi Shermadini
Giorgi Shermadini
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Giorgi Shermadini (216-89), who plays in the Italian SerieA. Shermadini could not help Bennet Cantu (15-9) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance Bennet Cantu was edged 72-69 on the road by the lower-ranked Scavolini Pesaro (#5). Shermadini recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 12 rebounds. It's Shermadini's first season with the team. Shermadini is ranked fifth on the list of the best blockers in the league. This season he averages: 9.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 65.7%(65-99) and FT: 85.7%. Shermadini is in the roster of the Georgian senior national team.

Manuchar Markoishvili
Manuchar Markoishvili
   #3. The Georgian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Giorgi Shermadini and both played together in the last Italian SerieA game. Markoishvili, who plays in the Italian SerieA. He was not able to help Bennet Cantu (15-9) in their last game. Despite Markoishvili's very good performance Bennet Cantu was edged 72-69 in Pesaro by the lower-ranked (#5) Scavolini. He was the top scorer with 17 points. Markoishvili also added 4 rebounds in 36 minutes. This year Markoishvili has relatively solid stats: 10.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 49.2%, 3FGP: 39.2% and FT: 76.1% in the 24 games. He is also a member of the Georgian senior national team.

Quinton Hosley
Quinton Hosley
   #4. Swingman Quinton Hosley (201-84, college: Fresno St.) was the major contributor in a Banco di Sardegna Sassari's victory against the closely-ranked CS Bologna (14-10) crushing them 89-55 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Hosley scored 19 points, grabbed 4 boards, dished 3 assists and stole 3 balls. Banco di Sardegna Sassari (15-9) is placed fourth in the SerieA. Hosley is currently fourth on the league's list of most steals. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hosley averages: 15.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.2apg and 2.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Hosley played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Georgian national team roster. Strangely Hosley has never played in Georgia.

Viktor Sanikidze
Viktor Sanikidze
   #5. International forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-86, agency: World Sport Agency) faced previously mentioned Quinton Hosley in the Italian SerieA last game. Sanikidze was not able to secure a victory for CS Bologna (14-10) in their game against Banco di Sardegna Sassari (15-9). He scored 7 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 30 minutes. CS Bologna was crushed 89-55 in Sassari by the higher-ranked (#4) Banco di Sardegna. Sanikidze is the league's best rebounder with 10.5rpg. This year he also averages: 12.8ppg, 1.5apg and 1.3spg in the 22 games. Despite Sanikidze played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Georgian national team roster.

Melvin Sanders
Melvin Sanders
   #6. Swingman Melvin Sanders (196-81, agency: FCM, college: Oklahoma St.) couldn't help Hacettepe University (9-15) in their game against Antalya (7-17) in the Turkish TBL. Sanders scored 8 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Hacettepe University was badly defeated 99-80 on the opponent's court by the lower-ranked Antalya (#14). Sanders is currently fourth on the league's list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 12.3ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.8apg and 1.3spg. Sanders is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Sanders is also an international player who is currently on the senior Georgian National Team roster. Apparently he has never played in Georgia.

Tornike Shengelia
Tornike Shengelia
   #7. International forward Tornike Shengelia (207-91) couldn't help Spirou Charleroi (16-7) in their game against Okapi Aalstar (13-9) in the Belgian D1. Shengelia scored 6 points in only 13 minutes. The league leader Spirou Charleroi was edged 91-90 in Aalst by the lower-ranked (#4) Okapi ar. They ended the series of three consecutive victories. This year Shengelia's overall stats are: 7.7ppg, 4.9rpg and 1.2apg in the 10 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Shengelia is currently in the Georgian national team roster.

Georges Mdivani
Georges Mdivani
   #8. Center Georges Mdivani (205-85) led Rueil to a surprising victory over the eighth-ranked Sorgues (15-12) 76-70 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Mdivani scored 22 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Rueil Athletic Club (11-16) is placed 14th in the NM1. Mdivani has reliable stats this season: 11.9ppg, 6.7rpg and 1.4apg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Mdivani is currently in the Georgian national team roster.

Tyrone Ellis
Tyrone Ellis
   #9. An experienced former international guard Tyrone Ellis (193-77, college: S.Nazarene) couldn't help Meridiano Alicante (14-12) in their game against Unicaja Malaga (14-12) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 5 points in 19 minutes. Meridiano Alicante lost 60-72 in Malaga to the higher-ranked (#6) Unicaja. Ellis' stats this year are: 10.1ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.1apg and 1.3spg in the 15 games. He is a naturalized American. Ellis used to play for the Georgian national team three years ago. Interesting that he has never played in Georgia.

Nika Metreveli
Nika Metreveli
   #10. Power forward Nika Metreveli (212-91, agency: Interperformances) is a teammate of previously mentioned Quinton Hosley and both played together in the last Italian SerieA game. Metreveli managed to help Banco di Sardegna Sassari to win against the closely-ranked CS Bologna (14-10) crushing them 89-55. He scored only 2 points and blocked 2 shots. Metreveli's total stats this season are: 4.1ppg and 1.9rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Georgian National Team roster.


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

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

BBL Standings
 1. Brose Baskets 24-3 
 2. Ratiopharm 23-5 
 3. ALBA 22-6 
 4. Art.Dragons 19-9 
 5. B.Muenchen 17-11 
 6. s.Oliver Baskets 17-11 
 7. NY Phantoms 14-13 
 8. Telekom Baskets 14-13 
 9. EWE Baskets 13-15 
 10. Bremerhaven 13-15 
 11. Fraport SKY 13-15 
 12. Walter Tigers 12-16 
 13. Bayreuth 11-17 
 14. TBB Trier 10-18 
 15. EnBW L'burg 8-20 
 16. Phoenix Hagen 8-20 
 17. LTi 46ers 8-20 
 18. Goettingen 4-24 

Regular Season: Round 29

Apr. 1: Brose Baskets - Phoenix Hagen
Apr. 1: ALBA - B.Muenchen
Apr. 1: Fraport SKY - Ratiopharm
Apr. 1: Telekom Baskets - TBB Trier
Mar. 31: NY Phantoms - EnBW L'burg
Mar. 31: LTi 46ers - EWE Baskets
Mar. 31: Walter Tigers - Goettingen
Mar. 31: s.Oliver Baskets - Bremerhaven
Apr. 1: Bayreuth - Art.Dragons

Round 22

Mar. 28: ALBA - Phoenix Hagen 114-86

Round 27

Mar. 24: TBB Trier - Art.Dragons 51-73


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 16.5
 1. Brown, EWE Baskets16.5 
 2. Wood, ALBA15.7 
 3. Carter, Phoenix15.6 
 4. Swann, Ratiopharm15.6 
 5. Ensminger, Teleko.15.4 
 6. Jonusas, Phoenix15.1 
 7. Holston, Art.Drag.15.0 
 8. Peavy, Art.Dragons14.5 
 9. Bryant, Ratiopharm14.3 
 10. Tucker, Brose B.14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.6 
 2. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.4 
 3. Ensminger, Teleko.7.9 
 4. Homan, B.Muenchen7.6 
 5. Evans, Goettingen7.3 
 6. Zirbes, TBB Trier7.1 
 7. Sykes, Goettingen7.0 
 8. Troutman, B.Mue.6.8 
 9. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.6 
 10. Watts, Ratiopharm6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 8.4
 1. Jordan, Telekom8.4 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.6.0 
 3. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 4. Wood, ALBA5.0 
 5. Everett, Bremerha.4.7 
 6. Joyce, TBB Trier4.7 
 7. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.6 
 8. Brown, EWE Baskets4.6 
 9. Campbell, Walter T.4.1 
 10. Bauscher, Goett.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Linhart, TBB Trier1.7 
 2. Kramer, s.Oliv.1.6 
 3. Holston, Art.Drag.1.5 
 4. Dorris, EnBW L.1.4 
 5. Redding, Walter T.1.4 
 6. Carter, Phoenix1.3 
 7. Bernard, LTi 46ers1.3 
 8. Wood, ALBA1.3 
 9. Robertson, Fraport1.3 
 10. Trice, Ratiopharm1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Gaffney, Teleko.2.1 
 2. Davidson, Fraport1.7 
 3. Looby, EnBW L.1.7 
 4. Ibekwe, Bayreuth1.7 
 5. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.3 
 6. Slaughter, Brose B.1.3 
 7. Homan, B.Muenchen1.2 
 8. Pleiss, Brose B.1.2 
 9. King, Art.Dragons1.2 
 10. Constantine, Phoe.1.1 


Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) We Are Trying To Keep Home Court Advantage For The Playoffs - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, college: Bucknell) is a 31 year old 185cm combo guard that is playing his 10th professional basketball season and fifth playing with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. In 2009-2010, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. Last season with the Dragons, he played EuroChallenge Qualifying Round: 1 game: 7pts, 5reb, 3ast, 3steals; German League: 41 games: 11.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 77.2% He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket afer the 73-51 win against TBB Trier

Congrats on the 73-51 win in Trier. How big a win was this after the hard 66-60 loss at home against the Fraport Skyliners?

This was a big win for us. We're trying to keep home court advantage for the playoffs and hopefully this win can get us back on the right track.

How weird was it playing a game when most of basketball Germany was focused on the Top 4 weekend?

-For us it wasn't weird. We were just focusing on the game.

The Artland Dragons had the 13-12 lead after one quarter. The Dragons exploded for 27 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the Dragons make?

We moved the ball very well in the 2nd quarter and got good looks at the basket. We also got some easy transition baskets.

In the third quarter the Dragons extended the lead to 20 points and gave up only 9 points. What adjustments did the Dragons make on defense coming out of halftime?

We wanted to keep high defensive pressure on Trier in the 2nd half and we came out with good intensity. We wanted to keep their guards out of the paint and I think we did a better job in the 3rd quarter.

The Artland Dragons shot pretty well, and outrebounded TBB Trier. What was a hidden strength of the Dragons on this day?

I think our ball movement was good. We shared the ball on offense and made the extra pass.

How important is it for the team mentality to know that even winning without a 26 and 8 from Holston can be achieved on a regular basis?

We have different players that can step up each game. One game someone might have it going and on another night a different player.

What has been the biggest 2012 NCAA surprise for you?

Lehigh upsetting Duke.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Running Scared

Thanks Bryan for the chat.


Marcus Slaughter (Brose Baskets Bamberg) Holding Up The Cup And Celebrating With The Fans Was My Fondest Memory Of The 2012 Cup Weekend - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Riverside California. He played at San Diego State from 2003-2006. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 16.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49%, FT: 76.2%. He started his professional basketball career in Turkey for Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir playing 29 games averaging 13.3ppg, Reb-3 (10.2rpg), 1.3apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 67.2%. In 2007-2008, he was with the Miami Heat in preseason and then played in Israel and France for Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem, Israeli League: 8.0ppg, 6.4rpg, ULEB Cup: 5 games: 5.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, waived in Dec.'07, in Jan.'08 signed at BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral 15 games: 9.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP-3 (63.2%), FT: 58.9%. in 2008-2009, he started with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (8 games: 18.8ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.3apg, 2.6spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 60.0%) before moving to France to Le Havre playing 21 games: 16.0ppg, Reb-1 (9.5rpg), 1.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.4%; Eurocup: 6 games: 12.2ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.8bpg. In 2009-2010, he played for Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA): EuroCup: 6 games: 8.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.8spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 50.0%, FT: 76.7%; French League: 29 games: 12.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.5spg, Blocks-5 (1.4bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.1%. Last season, he played for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid (Spain-ACB, starting five): 34 games: 9.9ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 65.0%, FT: 67.5%. He is back in the Beko BBL with the Brose Baskets Bamberg. He spoke to eurobasket after the 2012 Beko BBL win against the Telekom Baskets Bonn.

Congrats Marcus on the 2012 beko BBL cup win. What kind of a feeling do you have almost 24 hours later?


It is a great feeling and something special. I really enjoyed this win.

How difficult was it playing in the final against the Telekom Baskets Bonn after the the hard fought win against ratiopharm Ulm?


We played with a lot of passion and effort this weekend. The Ulm game took a lot out of us, but we didnt want to return to Bamberg empty handed.

Many called the Ulm-Bambegr game one of the best in the last years. Where would you categorize this game in your career?


It was just another game with me. It was a good game and very exciting for the fans to watch. It was tough to win, but since a title wasnt on the line, I cant call it one of the top games that I have played in.

How valuable is Anton gavel. Would you have been worried if he hadnt showed up on the court for the semi final game against ratiopharm ulm?


I would worry if any player on the team was missing. Every player is valuable on the team. No matter who would be missing, it would hurt the team.

How much fun was it playing against Tony Gaffney?


It was fun. I know him off the court as well. We have similar games and we can both do exciting things on the court.

What was your fondest memory of the 2012 Beko BBL cup weekend?


Holding up the cup and celebrating with the fans.

Who will reach the 2012 NCAA Final and win it?

Kentucky vs Kansas and Kentucky will win.

Thanks Marcus for the chat.


Dirk Nowitzki's 31 points make him top German player abroad of the week - by Eurobasket Center

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

Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced international forward Dirk Nowitzki (213-78). He led Dallas Mavericks to an overtime victory over the Houston Rockets (27-24) 101-99 in the NBA in Saturday night's game. Nowitzki was MVP of the game. He scored 31 points (!!!), had 7 rebounds, passed 3 assists and added 2 blocks in 39 minutes on the court. The Dallas Mavericks have 29-22 record this season. It's Nowitzki's 14th year with the team. Nowitzki has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 21.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 48.0%, 3FGP: 35.5% and FT: 87.5% in the 47 games he played so far. Nowitzki is currently a member of the German senior national team.

Chris Kaman
Chris Kaman
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Chris Kaman (213-82, college: Cent.Michigan). He led New Orleans Hornets to a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers (28-21) 97-90 in the NBA last Thursday. Kaman was the best player in that game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 10 rebounds. Kaman also added 4 blocks. The New Orleans Hornets have not so impressive 12-37 record this season. This year Kaman has very high stats. He averages: 13.3ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 43.6% and FT: 76.4%. Kaman is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Kaman is currently a member of the German senior national team. Strangely he has never played in Germany.

Sergio Kerusch
Sergio Kerusch
   #3. The German player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Sergio Kerusch (195-89, college: W.Kentucky). Kerusch was the major contributor in Aris' victory against the closely-ranked AGOR (14-9) 78-60 in the Greek A1 on Saturday night. He recorded 14 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 26 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Kerusch's third season in pro basketball. Aris Thessaloniki (11-12) is placed seventh in the A1. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Kerusch's overall stats are: 7.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 56.0%(51-91), 3FGP: 30.4% and FT: 66.7% in the 23 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Kerusch played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the German senior national team. Apparently Kerusch has never played in Germany.

Julian Sensley
Julian Sensley
   #4. Forward Julian Sensley (206-82, agency: VVG Sports, college: Hawaii), who plays in the Puerto Rican BSN could not help Caciques (2-10) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance the bottom-ranked Caciques was edged 80-77 on the road by the second-ranked Vaqueros. Sensley recorded a double-double by scoring 29 points and getting 13 rebounds. This season Sensley has very high stats. He averages: 21.6ppg and 9.6rpg. Sensley is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Sensley is currently in the German national team roster. Interesting that he has never played in Germany.

Keith Waleskowski
Keith Waleskowski
   #5. International power forward Keith Waleskowski (204-80, college: Dayton) was the main contributor in a Tezenis Verona's surprising victory against the second-ranked Tuscany Pistoia (16-8) 80-77 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Waleskowski was the top player that evening. He had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 17 rebounds in 34 minutes. Tezenis Verona (11-12) is placed eighth in the Lega2. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Waleskowski has relatively good stats this year: 10.1ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.5spg in the 14 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Waleskowski played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the German national team roster. However Waleskowski has never played in Germany.

Urule Igbavboa
Urule Igbavboa
   #6. Center Urule Igbavboa (205-87, college: Valparaiso), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan was not able to help LF Basket (20-16) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance LF Basket was defeated 88-80 in Sundsvall by the lower-ranked Dragons (#6). Igbavboa was the top scorer with 18 points. He also added 8 rebounds. This season Igbavboa has relatively solid stats: 11.0ppg and 5.3rpg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Igbavboa played previously for the USA national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior German National Team roster. Igbavboa used to play for MEG Goettingen in German league.

Tilo Klette
Tilo Klette
   #7. Former U22 international power forward Tilo Klette (206-77) contributed to a 1-point Levanga Hokkaido's victory against the closely-ranked Panasonic Trians (24-18) 77-76 in the Japanese JBL in Sunday night's game. He was the top player that evening. Klette scored 21 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. Levanga Hokkaido (22-20) is placed fifth in the JBL. The Regular Season already ended. Klette has reliable stats this year: 12.6ppg and 4.9rpg in the 41 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Klette is currently in the German U22 national team roster.

Adam Waleskowski
Adam Waleskowski
   #8. Forward Adam Waleskowski (204-82, agency: Court Side, college: Florida St.) contributed to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Inter Bratislava (10-29) crushing them 78-56 in the Czech Republic NBL last Wednesday. He was the top player that evening. Waleskowski scored 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Astrum Levice (18-21) is placed second in A2 group. His team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And now that game is very crucial. Waleskowski's stats this season are: 12.6ppg, 7.2rpg and 1.2spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Waleskowski played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the German national team roster. Waleskowski used to play for Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule in German league.

Chad Toppert
Chad Toppert
   #9. Former international guard Chad Toppert (201-85, college: N.Mexico) contributed to a 1-point CAI Zaragoza's victory against the closely-ranked Assignia Manresa (12-14) 72-71 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. He scored 7 points in only 12 minutes. CAI Zaragoza (14-12) is placed eighth in the ACB. This year Toppert's total stats are: 3.8ppg and 1.5rpg in the 26 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Toppert played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the German national team roster.

Mike Dejworek
Mike Dejworek
   #10. Center Mike Dejworek (210-87, college: Citadel) contributed to Bakken's victory against the closely-ranked Horsens IC (12-15) 84-74 in the Danish Ligaen in Monday night's game. He recorded 9 points, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Bakken Bears (25-2) is placed first in the Ligaen. Dejworek has averaged so far 6.2ppg and 4.7rpg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Dejworek is also a former U18 international player as seven years ago he still played for the German national team.

   #11. Former international center Joachim Thoss (203-81) contributed to a 2-point Alaska Aces' victory against the closely-ranked Powerade Tigers 102-100 in the Filipino PBA last Friday. He had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 10 rebounds in 38 minutes. Thoss' stats this year are: 10.7ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1bpg in the nine games. Despite he played previously for the Filipino national team, Thoss is currently in the German national team roster.

   #12. Former international forward Marco Sanders (202-79, college: Point Park) contributed to Centrum's victory against the closely-ranked Tromso 61-54 in the Norwegian BLNO on Sunday night. He recorded 13 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Sanders averaged so far 12.3ppg, 5.6rpg and 1.8apg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Sanders played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the German national team roster. Sanders used to play for EnBW Ludwigsburg in German league.

   #13. Former international power forward Kiril Wachsmann (203-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Iona) managed to help Melilla Baloncesto in a victory against the league leader Canarias 77-63 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 28 minutes. Wachsmann has averaged so far 5.1ppg and 6.2rpg in the 29 games. He used to play for the German national team three years ago.

   #14. Former U20 international forward Nikita Khartchenkov (200-87) was not able to secure a victory for one of league's weakest teams CSU Sibiu in their game against Timisoara in the Romanian Division A. Khartchenkov cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 3 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His team was crushed by 26 points 94-68. This season Khartchenkov has very high stats. He averages: 16.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg and 1.2spg. Khartchenkov used to play for the German U20 national team back in 2007.

   #15. Former international guard Cody Toppert (193-83, college: Cornell) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Clinicas Rincon 79-63 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. He scored only 2 points in 14 minutes. Toppert has averaged so far 2.8ppg and 1.8rpg in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Toppert used to play for the German national team five years ago. He played also for MEG Goettingen in German league.


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

Div.B Standing

B Standings
 1. Aiolos Trikallon 22-2 
 2. Filathlitikos 21-3 
 3. Niki Volou 17-7 
 4. Irakleio 16-8 
 5. Agia Paraskevis 15-9 
 6. Koroivos 14-10 
 7. Diagoras 12-12 
 8. Doukas 11-13 
 9. Egaleo 11-13 
 10. MENT 11-13 
 11. Stratoni 10-14 
 12. Near East 10-14 
 13. Iraklis 8-16 
 14. Aias Evosmou 7-17 
 15. Anagennisi 6-18 
 16. Halkidona 1-23 

Regular Season: Round 25

Apr. 1: Doukas - Aiolos Trikallon
Apr. 1: Near East - Iraklis
Apr. 1: Stratoni - Aias Evosmou
Apr. 1: Egaleo - Diagoras
Apr. 1: Halkidona - Agia Paraskevis
Apr. 1: MENT - Filathlitikos
Apr. 1: Anagennisi - Koroivos
Apr. 1: Irakleio - Niki Volou


Olympiakos blasts Montepaschi for 2-1 lead in Euroleague Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News

Olympiakos - Montepaschi 75-55

Olympiakos is 2-1 up against Montepaschi. Third game of the Euroleague Quarterfinals was played tonight and Olympiakos registered easy 75-55 victory. It means that the Reds need one more win to book a ticket for the Final Four in Istanbul. The hosts limited Montepaschi to just 55 points for the game, what includes 25 points by Montepaschi in the last ten minutes. It means that for three quarters Montepaschi scored only 30 points, while the Reds had 48 at the other side. Kyle Hines (198-F-86) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Konstantinos Sloukas (197-G-90) scored 11 points and point guard Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) had 10 points, plus 6 assists. In defeat, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) scored 15 points and David Andersen (212-C-80) had three less, plus 5 rebounds. Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) was third scorer in Montepaschi with 8 points. As mentioned above, Olympiakos took control on Montepaschi in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 14-12, 18-9, 16-9, 27-25. Visitors opened this game with 1-7 run, but that was all from them tonight. Teams will meet on Thursday in Game Four and Olympiakos will be the host again.

Olympiakos: Kyle Hines 15+9 boards, Konstantinos Sloukas 11, Acie Law 10+6 as
Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 15, David Andersen 12+5 boards, Tomas Ress 8


Kostas Vasiliadis selected the top Greek playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Kostas Vasiliadis
Kostas Vasiliadis
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Kostas Vasiliadis (200-84, agency: FCM). He led his Spanish team Gescrap BB to a victory over the leader CSKA Moscow (5-1) 94-81 in the Euroleague in Wednesday night's game. Vasiliadis was MVP of the game. He scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 30 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group F. Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket (4-2) is placed second. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Vasiliadis has relatively good stats this year: 10.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 2FGP: 48.0%, 3FGP: 39.4% and FT: 87.3% in the 19 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Greek senior national team.

Theodoros Papaloukas
Theodoros Papaloukas
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced former international point guard Theodoros Papaloukas (200-77, also represented by FCM). Papaloukas contributed to an easy victory against one of league's weakest teams Bnei Hasharon (5-15) 92-75 in the Israeli Premier League last Sunday. He recorded 11 points and added 6 passes. Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (17-2) is placed first in the Premier League. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. It's Papaloukas' first season with the team. This year Papaloukas averages: 6.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 5.2apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 85.7% and FT: 66.7%. He played for the Greek national team in 2008.

Ioannis Bourousis
Ioannis Bourousis
   #3. The Greek player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, another player represented by FCM), who plays in the Italian SerieA. Bourousis could not help Armani Milano (14-10) in their last game. Despite his good performance Armani Milano lost 73-77 on the road to the much lower-ranked (#15) Vanoli-Braga. Bourousis scored 11 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 25 minutes. This year Bourousis has relatively solid stats: 10.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 60.8%(73-120), 3FGP: 44.1% and FT: 72.2% in the 23 games. He is also a member of the Greek senior national team.

Michael Bramos
Michael Bramos
   #4. Swingman Michael Bramos (196-87, college: Miami, OH) was the main contributor in a Gran Canaria 2014's victory against the closely-ranked Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (10-15) 70-65 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Bramos was the best player in that game. He scored 17 points; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Bramos' third season in pro basketball. C.B. Gran Canaria 2014 (11-15) is placed 12th in the ACB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Bramos' overall stats this season are: 9.3ppg, 2.3rpg and 1.2apg. He is also Greek national team player.

Sofoklis Schortsanitis
Sofoklis Schortsanitis
   #5. International center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-85) is a teammate of previously mentioned Theodoros Papaloukas. But that was another game of his team in Euroleague which we would like to mention. Schortsanitis contributed to a 3-point Maccabi T-A's victory against the leader Panathinaikos (4-2) 65-62. He scored 8 points in 19 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group H. Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (3-3) is placed second. This year Schortsanitis' overall stats are: 9.2ppg and 3.1rpg in the 19 games. He plays currently for the Greek national team.

Dimitris Haritopoulos
Dimitris Haritopoulos
   #6. Power forward Dimitris Haritopoulos (206-83, another player represented by FCM) was not able to help ASVEL (10-13) in their game against JSF Nanterre (9-14) in the French ProA. Despite his very good performance on Friday night Haritopoulos was the top scorer with 17 points. He also added 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Haritopoulos' total stats this season are: 8.9ppg and 3.1rpg. Despite he played previously for the Swedish national team, Haritopoulos is also a former international player as he played for the Greek senior team seven years ago.

Dimitrios Mavroeidis
Dimitrios Mavroeidis
   #7. International center Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-85, another player represented by FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kostas Vasiliadis. However that was another game of his team in Euroleague which brought him to that list. Mavroeidis was not able to secure a victory for Gescrap BB (4-2) in their game against CSKA Moscow (5-1). He scored 9 points in only 14 minutes. But the second-placed Gescrap BB was badly defeated 79-60 in Moscow by the leading CSKA in the group F of Euroleague. This year Mavroeidis' total stats are: 4.8ppg and 3.6rpg in the 18 games. Despite he played previously for the Swedish national team, Mavroeidis is currently in the Greek national team roster.

Savvas Manousos
Savvas Manousos
   #8. Power forward Savvas Manousos (208-85) contributed to a NH Ostrava's victory against the eighth-ranked B&W Opava (8-31) 80-71 in the Czech Republic NBL last Wednesday. He was the top player that evening. Manousos recorded 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. BK Nova Hut Ostrava (25-14) is placed first in A2 group. It was his team's 12th consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And now that game is very crucial. Manousos has averaged so far 9.1ppg and 6.3rpg. Despite he played previously for the Swedish national team, Manousos is currently in the Greek U16 national team roster.

Giannis Kalambokis
Giannis Kalambokis
   #9. Former international guard Giannis Kalambokis (195-78, another player represented by FCM) helped ALBA Berlin win their game against the 16th-ranked Phoenix Hagen (8-20) crushing them 114-86 in the German BBL on Wednesday night. He scored 7 points and added 7 assists in 25 minutes. ALBA Berlin (22-6) is placed third in the BBL. It was his team's 11th consecutive victory in a row. Kalambokis has averaged so far 3.4ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.0apg in the five games. Despite he played previously for the Swedish national team, Kalambokis is currently in the Greek national team roster.

Nikolaos Zisis
Nikolaos Zisis
   #10. Guard Nikolaos Zisis (197-83) managed to help Montepaschi Siena to win against the closely-ranked Olympiakos (3-3) 81-80 in the Euroleague in Friday night's game. He scored only 4 points and added 4 passes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group F. Montepaschi Siena (4-2) is placed first. Zisis has averaged so far 3.9ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.7apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Greek National Team roster.

   #11. International forward Antonis Fotsis (210-81) is a teammate of previously mentioned Ioannis Bourousis and both played together in the last Italian SerieA game. Fotsis couldn't help Armani Milano in their game against Vanoli-Braga. He scored 6 points in 21 minutes. His team lost 73-77. Fotsis has averaged so far 9.4ppg and 4.7rpg in the 24 games. Despite he played previously for the Swedish national team, Fotsis is currently in the Greek national team roster.

   #12. International center Alexey Savrasenko (215-79) couldn't help Unics Kazan in their game against Regal FC Barcelona in the Euroleague. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His team was defeated 67-56. Savrasenko has averaged so far 3.9ppg and 2.9rpg. He is also in the roster of the Greek national team.

   #13. Former international guard Emmanouil Papamakarios (192-80) helped Lagun Aro GBC win their game against the closely-ranked Real Madrid 98-90 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Papamakarios scored only 3 points, made 6 passes and 3 steals in 21 minutes. Papamakarios has averaged so far 3.4ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.1apg in the 26 games. He used to play for the Greek national team seven years ago.

   #14. Former international guard Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) helped Tartu Ulikool win their game against the closely-ranked Rapla 81-62 in the Estonian KML last Saturday. Sokk scored 8 points and added 4 passes. Sokk is ranked third on the list of the best passers in the league. He has averaged so far 7.9ppg, 1.7rpg and 3.9apg. Despite Sokk played previously for the Estonian national team, he is currently in the Greek national team roster.

   #15. Former international forward Nestoras Kommatos (203-77) couldn't help S.Antimo in their game against Trenkwalder RE in the Italian Lega2 (second division), despite his very good performance on Sunday night. Kommatos recorded 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 34 minutes. But his team lost 71-80. He has reliable stats this year: 11.8ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.3apg in the four games. Despite Kommatos played previously for the Estonian national team, he is currently in the Greek national team roster.


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  HOLLAND   


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

26-year old forward Ross Bekkering (203-F-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) put on an amazing game in the last round for Nijmegen and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 29.
He had a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Leeuwarden (#6, 9-16) in overtime 99-90. Nijmegen maintains the 4th position in Dutch league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Nijmegen will need more victories to improve their 16-10 record. In the team's last game Bekkering had a remarkable 85.7% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Bekkering has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 6.8rpg) and averages solid 53.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Yamene Coleman (206-C-86, agency: Court Side) of Weert. He is American center in his first season at Weert. In the last game Coleman recorded impressive double-double of 14 points and 20 rebounds. Of course he lead Weert to another comfortable win 83-69 over slightly higher-ranked Zwolle (#5, 10-16) being unquestionably team leader. Weert's 7th position in the standings has not changed. 20 lost games are too many comparing to just five victories Weert managed to get this year. Coleman is a newcomer at Weert and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Manny Adako (203-F-87, agency: Court Side) of Leeuwarden (#6). Adako scored 23 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Adako's great performance Leeuwarden lost 90-99in overtime to slightly higher-ranked Nijmegen (#4, 16-10). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Leeuwarden not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 16 games, recording just nine victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Adako could try to bring Leeuwarden's a little bit higher in the standings. Adako has a very solid season. In 24 games in Holland he scored 12.8ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and FGP: 59.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tyrone Sally (201-F-82) of Rotterdam - 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Nikki Hulzebos (206-F-86) of Zwolle - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Cameron Wells (185-G-88) of Zwolle - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Markel Humphrey (198-F-87) of Nijmegen - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Maurice Acker (173-PG-87) of Nijmegen - 22 points and 7 assists
9. Patrick Hilliman (206-F/C-82) of Leiden - 11 points and 10 rebounds
10. Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87) of Weert - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 3 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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  ICELAND   


Skallagrimir clinch D1 title - by Eurobasket News

Skallagimur - IA 89:67

Skallagimur earned the D1 title. They overcame IA in the decisive third game of the championship series. Danny Sumner (201-F-87, college: William & Mary) knocked down 26 points to lead the winners.
Skallagimur started the game aggressively. The hosts quickly grabbed the lead and ensured a 21:12 advantage after ten minutes. IA however shifted the gear in the second quarter. The visitors unloaded 27 points to narrow the margin to just 4 points at halftime 39:43. Skallagimur went off the dressing room a recharged team. They stiffened defence and limited IA to 15 points in the frame. The home team entered the final stanza up by 12 points. IA failed to answer in the fourth quarter as Skallagimur took over and marched to the victory. Lloyd Harrison (185-G, college: Clarion) finished with 23 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists for Skallagimur. Darrell Flake (193-F-80, college: McKendree) contributed 19 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists in the win. Askell Jonsson (185-G-86) responded with 20 points for IA. Lorenzo McClelland (180-G-87, college: Rochester, MI) had 18 points, 6 assists and 5 boards in the loss.

Skallagimur: Danny Sumner 26, Lloyd Harrison 23+11 boards, Darrell Flake 19+10 boards
IA: Askell Jonsson 20, Lorenzo McClelland 18


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  ISRAEL   


Daniel's 29 points and 9 rebounds give him National League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

24-year old forward Lenny Daniel (201-F-87) put on an amazing game in the last round for Ironi K-A and receives a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 24.
He had the game-high 29 points adding nine rebounds for Ironi K-A in his team's victory, helping them to edge out Hapoel Y/M (#14, 7-17) in overtime 116-112. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Ironi K-A maintains the 11th position in Israeli National League. Ironi K-A is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-15 record. Daniel turned to be Ironi K-A's top player in his first season with the team. Cal State - Northridge graduate has very impressive stats this year. Daniel is in league's top in points (9th best: 20.7ppg), rebounds (8th best: 9.1rpg) and averages solid 2.6bpg and 60.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Javier Gonzalez (182-PG-89) of Hod Hasharon. He is Puerto Rican guard in his first season at Hod Hasharon. In the last game Gonzalez recorded impressive double-double of 22 points and 12 assists. Bad luck as Hod Hasharon was edged by slightly lower-ranked Elitzur Ramla (#9, 11-13) 92-91. This loss caused Hod Hasharon to drop to 7th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 12-12 record is not bad and everything may still change. Gonzalez is a newcomer at Hod Hasharon and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Errick McCollum (185-G-88, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) of Hapoel K/S (#13). McCollum showcased his all-around game by recording 29 points, nine rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Hapoel K/S, leading his team to a 89-82 win against Lev Hasharon (7-17). Hapoel K/S can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 7-17 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for McCollum he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. McCollum has individually a great season in Israel. After 16 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 24.3ppg (best scorer). He also has 2.2spg and FGP: 58.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Rahshon Turner (201-F/C-75) of Hapoel Y/M - 22 points, 17 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Marshall Moses (198-F-89) of Hapoel K/S - 24 points and 13 rebounds
6. Nate Miller (193-G-87) of Macc.B.Yaakov - 26 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Demontez Stitt (186-PG-89) of Hapoel T-A - 18 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Stacey Moragne (195-F-83) of Elitzur Ramla - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Tony Younger (200-F-80) of Ironi K-A - 23 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Dan Bank (188-G-84) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists

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


Breaking: Richard Hendrix breaks down negotiation talks with Maccabi - by David Pick

Maccabi Tel-Aviv's dominating center Richard Hendrix, cut off all negotiations with the team as the two sides failed to reach an agreement regarding the his contract extension, a source told Eurobasket.

Hendrix, who's been enjoying a stellar season with the Israeli squad, is averaging a Euroleague career high of 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.

According to a source familiar with Hendrix's situation, the former 6-foot-8 Alabama alumnus, who's wanted by nearly half-a-dozen European power house teams, will entertain
offers from Russian CSKA and Spanish Barcelona and Real Madrid, among other offers this summer.

Last night is Tel-Aviv; Hendrix recorded 9 points along with 7 boards while scoring the game winning tip-in bucket for the yellow-and-blue, beating their Greek rivals Panathinaikos 65-62, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five Euroleague playoffs series.

Tomorrow, Hendrix and Maccabi play host to Pao in what could be the final match of the series.


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  ITALY   

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings
Div.North-East
 1. Trieste 22-10 
 2. Trento 21-10 
 3. Perugia 15-16 
 4. Santarcangelo 13-19 
 5. Firenze 10-22 
 6. Comsum.it SI 10-22 
Div.North-West
 1. Omegna 28-4 
 2. Torino 20-12 
 3. Treviglio 19-13 
 4. Casalpusterlengo 17-15 
 5. Pavia 16-16 
 6. Castelletto 11-20 
Div.South-East
 1. Chieti 17-15 
 2. Recanati 16-15 
 3. Bari 15-17 
 4. San Severo 14-18 
 5. Fabriano 8-23 
 6. Ruvo 3-29 
Div.South-West
 1. Napoli 26-6 
 2. Ferentino 19-13 
 3. Orlandina 18-13 
 4. Latina Basket 16-16 
 5. Matera 14-17 
 6. Anagni 13-18 

Regular Season: Round 32

Mar. 25: Castelletto - Recanati 94-86
Mar. 25: Perugia - Bari 93-85
Mar. 25: Casalpusterlengo - Anagni 89-96
Mar. 24: Comsum.it SI - Matera 88-73
Mar. 24: Omegna - San Severo 85-71
Mar. 25: Torino - Fabriano 78-73
Mar. 25: Firenze - Chieti 76-68
Mar. 24: Trento - Ruvo 75-61
Mar. 25: Trieste - Ferentino 73-56
Mar. 25: Santarcangelo - Latina Basket 71-46
Mar. 25: Pavia - Orlandina 68-61
Mar. 26: Treviglio - Napoli 55-64

Regular Season: Round 24

Feb. 11: Santarcangelo - Casalpusterlengo
Feb. 12: Treviglio - Firenze
Feb. 16: Fabriano - Recanati
Feb. 11: Omegna - Trento
Feb. 16: Matera - Chieti
Feb. 12: Pavia - Torino
Feb. 16: Latina Basket - Ferentino
Feb. 16: Ruvo - Anagni
Feb. 12: Trieste - Comsum.it SI
Feb. 12: Napoli - Orlandina
Feb. 16: San Severo - Bari
Mar. 29: Castelletto - Perugia


stats leader

Points Per Game
 Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Musso, Napoli19.5 
 2. Evangelisti, Recan.17.6 
 3. Portannese, Torino16.4 
 4. Poltroneri, Perugia15.1 
 5. Ferrarese, Castell.15.1 
 6. Prandin, Casalp.14.8 
 7. Rugolo, San Severo14.7 
 8. Mei, Comsum.it SI14.2 
 9. Carrizo, Ferentino14.0 
 10. Amici, Firenze14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Rossi, Chieti12.8 
 2. Iannilli, Napoli9.7 
 3. Tagliabue, Ruvo8.3 
 4. Borra, Treviglio8.3 
 5. Baldi Rossi, Perug.8.0 
 6. Benevelli, Orlandi.8.0 
 7. Gandini, Trieste8.0 
 8. Simeoli, Comsum.i.7.9 
 9. Tessitori, Comsum..7.5 
 10. Iannuzzi, Ferenti.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Bertolazzi, Omegna4.2 
 2. Musso, Napoli4.1 
 3. Circosta, Anagni3.7 
 4. Stanic, Fabriano3.6 
 5. Guarino, Ferentino3.2 
 6. Santolamazza, Ana.3.0 
 7. Ferrarese, Castell.3.0 
 8. Vico, Matera2.9 
 9. Zanelli, Orlandina2.8 
 10. Parente, Torino2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 3
 1. Bertolazzi, Omegna3.0 
 2. Maggio, Pavia3.0 
 3. Malamov, Anagni2.9 
 4. Rivali, Santarcang.2.9 
 5. Iardella, Fabriano2.8 
 6. Portannese, Torino2.8 
 7. Mei, Comsum.it SI2.8 
 8. Rossi, Chieti2.8 
 9. Maiocco, Pavia2.7 
 10. Musso, Napoli2.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Capitanelli, Firen.2.0 
 2. Ancellotti, Santar.1.8 
 3. Borra, Treviglio1.5 
 4. Pascolo, Trento1.1 
 5. Candido, San Seve.1.1 
 6. Gandini, Trieste1.0 
 7. Cazzaniga, Pavia1.0 
 8. Tardito, Matera0.9 
 9. Tessitori, Comsum..0.9 
 10. Cotani, Castellet.0.9 


Clay Tucker decides to stay in Rome, no Fenerbahce for him - by Andrea Centenari

Clay Tucker (196-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) decided to finish the season in Italy with Acea Virtus Roma, as reported by Il Corriere dello Sport. The american guard was asked by the management of the italian team to search for a new team. He reached an agreement with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul but after the win in Caserta, Roma blocked his transfer.
Tucker yesterday practiced with the team and he decided, along with his agents, to finish the season in Italy without asking to leave to Istanbul.
The former Real Madrid player is averaging 14,7 points, 4,1 boards and 3,1 assists in this season with Acea Virtus Roma.


Ancellotti's double-double lands him Nazionale A Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

23-year old center Andrea Ancellotti (212-C-88) put on an amazing game in the last round for Santarcangelo and receives a Eurobasket.com Nazionale A Player of the Week award for round 32.
He had a double-double of 20 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed Latina Basket (#4, 16-16) with 25-point margin 71-46. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Santarcangelo maintains the 4th position in Italian Nazionale A. Santarcangelo is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 13-19 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Ancellotti as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Andrea Ancellotti averages this season 9.1ppg and 6.7rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Andrea Colli (203-F-88, agency: Players Group) of Comsum.it SI. He is a forward in his first season at Comsum.it SI. In the last game Colli recorded impressive double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead Comsum.it SI to another comfortable win 88-73 over slightly higher-ranked Matera (#5, 14-17) being unquestionably team leader. Comsum.it SI's 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-22 record. Colli is one of the most experienced players at Comsum.it SI and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Silvio Gigena (200-F-75) of Bari (#3). Gigena scored 25 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Gigena's great performance Bari lost 85-93 to #3 ranked Perugia. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The chances of Bari ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 17 games, recording just fifteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Gigena could help Bari to bring them higher in the standings. Gigena has a very solid season. In 31 games in Italy he scored 10.7ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and and 3PT: 42.9%. Silvio Gigena has also Italian passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Luca Bedetti (193-G/F-89) of Santarcangelo - 24 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Davide Poltroneri (195-SG-85) of Perugia - 32 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Marco Tagliabue (206-PF-86) of Ruvo - 25 points, 19 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Alberto Chiumenti (204-F/C-87) of Casalpusterlengo - 21 points and 9 rebounds
8. Francesco Amoroso (202-F-78) of San Severo - 24 points and 6 rebounds
9. Marco Portannese (192-G-89) of Torino - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-F/C-91) of Perugia - 18 points and 8 rebounds

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


Olympiakos blasts Montepaschi for 2-1 lead in Euroleague Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News

Olympiakos - Montepaschi 75-55

Olympiakos is 2-1 up against Montepaschi. Third game of the Euroleague Quarterfinals was played tonight and Olympiakos registered easy 75-55 victory. It means that the Reds need one more win to book a ticket for the Final Four in Istanbul. The hosts limited Montepaschi to just 55 points for the game, what includes 25 points by Montepaschi in the last ten minutes. It means that for three quarters Montepaschi scored only 30 points, while the Reds had 48 at the other side. Kyle Hines (198-F-86) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Konstantinos Sloukas (197-G-90) scored 11 points and point guard Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) had 10 points, plus 6 assists. In defeat, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) scored 15 points and David Andersen (212-C-80) had three less, plus 5 rebounds. Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) was third scorer in Montepaschi with 8 points. As mentioned above, Olympiakos took control on Montepaschi in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 14-12, 18-9, 16-9, 27-25. Visitors opened this game with 1-7 run, but that was all from them tonight. Teams will meet on Thursday in Game Four and Olympiakos will be the host again.

Olympiakos: Kyle Hines 15+9 boards, Konstantinos Sloukas 11, Acie Law 10+6 as
Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 15, David Andersen 12+5 boards, Tomas Ress 8


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  JUCO   


Lakeland CC (Mentor, Oh) Rally Comes Up Short in Consolation Game - Lakeland Finishes 4th in the country - by Vance Marbury

Lakeland CC Lakers (Mentor, Oh) Rally Comes Up Short in Consolation Game

DANVILLE, Ill. Brendan Coopers (Parma, Ohio / Parma) layup at the buzzer appeared to cap a 20-point, secondhalf rally for the Lakeland mens basketball team in the NJCAA Division II National Tournament consolation game. The sophomores fingerroll seemingly beat the clock but was ruled to still be in his hand as time expired, a call which was confirmed by replay at the end of regulation. Despite a 78-76 loss to #2 South Suburban the Lakers still secureda fourth place finish in the country, the best result in program history.

Four players scored in double figures for the Lakers, who entered the half trailing 43-27. South Suburban shot 47% from behind the arc in the first half, connecting on seven of 15 tries to build a 16-point lead.

Chaz Rollins (Warrensville Heights,Ohio / John Hay), who was named to the All-Tournament team after averaging a double-double through the tournament, finished with 21 points and 16 rebounds in the loss. Cooper added 18 to go along with eight rebounds,five assists, and three blocks while freshman Deran Banton (Jamaica,N.Y.) recorded a double-double with 17 points and ten boards.

Martell Medley (Cleveland, Ohio/ Euclid) chipped in 14 points for LCC.

That advantage ballooned to 20 in thesecond half before Lakeland made its run. Trailing by two with fiveseconds remaining, Medley drew a foul and went to the line for a pair. The guard drilled the first but missed the second, forcing Lakeland to foul with two seconds to go.

After Bryce Walker made one of two, the Lakers took over possession with the ball under their own basket and 1.8 seconds remaining.

Richard Smith heaved a full court passto the top of the three-point line, allowing Cooper to catch and turn towards the basket and seemingly make the game-tying shot.

Lakeland finished the season 27-9 overall,tied for the third most wins in program history. With just one sophomore, the Lakers will look to make it three straight Regional Championships next year when they return nine players from this years


No. 1 South Plains Prevails over No. 2 Northwest Florida for DI Men's Basketball Championship - by Arnault Desira

Marshall Hendersons 32 points led No. 1 South Plains College (Texas) to a 81-68 over No. 2 Northwest Florida State in the national title game of the NJCAA Division I Mens Basketball Championship Saturday evening in Hutchinson, Kan.

The contest was the first national title game since 1999 to feature the No. 1 and No. 2 ranked teams in Division I mens basketball and with the victory the Texans complete a 36-0 season, which is the first undefeated championship run since Indian Hills Community Colleges (Iowa) 1998 campaign.

South Plains controlled the Raiders throughout the game, but could never put the Region 8 champs away. The Texans gave up two double-digit leads in the contest despite the fact they held the lead in all but just one minute of play.

Henderson (right picture) had two big moments in the game that helped the Texans keep the Raiders at bay. With 1:24 left in the first half he elevated for a 3-point attempt, found the bottom of the net and was fouled. The four-point play put the SPC lead at six as they went into the locker room.

Late in the second half as the Texans led 76-68 with just under two minutes to play, Henderson netted a long-range 3-pointer just as the shot clock expired to put South Plains in front 79-68, which sealed the second national championship for South Plains in five seasons.

Tournament MVP Yanick Moreira had seven points and hauled in 16 rebounds. The Angola native averaged 11.0 points and 11.8 rebounds in four games in Hutchinson.

Northwest Florida State was led by Rod Ruckers 16 points and 14 rebounds. The Raiders end their 2012 season as national runner-up with a 32-2 overall record.


*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   

Standings -D1

D1 Standings
 1. BC Astana 20-0 
 2. Barsy Atyrau 14-6 
 3. Kaspiy Aktau 10-10 
 4. Tobol 9-11 
 5. BK Almaty 7-13 
 6. BK Atyrau 0-20 

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 7: BC Astana - Tobol
Apr. 7: Barsy Atyrau - Kaspiy Aktau



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

LBL Standing

LBL Standings
 1. Liepaja 15-8 
 2. Ventspils 13-1 
 3. VEF Riga 12-1 
 4. LU 12-11 
 5. Valmiera 12-12 
 6. Jelgava 11-14 
 7. Turiba 9-16 
 8. Jurmala 8-16 
 9. U18 1-14 

Regular Season: Round 26

Mar. 28: Ventspils - VEF Riga 66-77
Mar. 30: Ventspils - Turiba
Apr. 1: VEF Riga - U18
Apr. 1: LU - Liepaja
Apr. 2: Jurmala - Valmiera


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Ernests KALVE
  Valmiera
  (200-F-87)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Kalve, Valmiera18.8 
 2. Peiners, LU18.6 
 3. Mayo, Liepaja17.9 
 4. Lucas, Valmiera17.4 
 5. Krumins, Jelgava16.5 
 6. Ozols, Jurmala16.2 
 7. Mediss, Turiba15.5 
 8. Kravcenko, Liepaja13.6 
 9. Dargais, LU12.9 
 10. Timma, Liepaja12.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Jonats, Jurmala9.6 
 2. Willard, Ventspils8.2 
 3. Dargais, LU8.2 
 4. Rozitis, Valmiera8.0 
 5. Mednis, Turiba6.8 
 6. Kalve, Valmiera6.3 
 7. Nelson, Jelgava6.1 
 8. Butjankovs, Valmi.6.0 
 9. Timma, Liepaja5.7 
 10. Osins, LU5.3 
Assists Per Game
 Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Mayo, Liepaja5.1 
 2. Lucas, Valmiera4.4 
 3. Kravcenko, Liepaja3.8 
 4. Coders, Jurmala3.6 
 5. Krumins, Jelgava3.2 
 6. Silavs, Jelgava3.1 
 7. Peiners, LU3.0 
 8. Vitols, LU2.5 
 9. Steinbergs, Turiba2.4 
 10. Osins, LU2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Zanis PEINERS
  LU
  (203-G-90)
  Avg: 2
 1. Peiners, LU2.0 
 2. Osins, LU1.9 
 3. Kanbergs, Jelgava1.8 
 4. Mayo, Liepaja1.6 
 5. Timma, Liepaja1.5 
 6. Piternieks, Turiba1.5 
 7. Kosuskins, Jurmala1.4 
 8. Ozols, Jurmala1.4 
 9. Krumins, Jelgava1.4 
 10. Strelnieks, Vents.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Jekabs ROZITIS
  Valmiera
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Rozitis, Valmiera1.7 
 2. Ozols, Jurmala1.0 
 3. Jonats, Jurmala0.8 
 4. Plivda, LU0.7 
 5. Meiers, Ventspils0.7 
 6. Rubenis, LU0.6 
 7. Willard, Ventspils0.6 
 8. Duselis, Jelgava0.6 
 9. Peiners, LU0.5 
 10. Gromovs, U180.5 


Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings
 1. Barons kvartals 26-2 
 2. BK VEF 26-3 
 3. Liepaja-2 24-4 
 4. Saldus 21-8 
 5. RSU 16-11 
 6. VEF Kadeti 16-12 
 7. VA 16-14 
 8. BS Riga 14-11 
 9. DSN 14-13 
 10. Livani 9-19 
 11. Valmiera BSS 8-19 
 12. Ogres 8-19 
 13. Jelgava/LLU 8-21 
 14. Cesis 8-21 
 15. Gulbene 6-23 
 16. Ridzene 4-24 

Regular Season: Round 35

Mar. 28: DSN - Livani 93-75
Mar. 27: Saldus - Liepaja-2 81-93
Mar. 25: VA - Saldus 80-52
Mar. 27: VA - Jelgava/LLU 79-61
Mar. 27: Valmiera BSS - Barons kvartals 73-100
Mar. 25: BK VEF - RSU 100-60
Mar. 29: VEF Kadeti - Ridzene
Mar. 30: BS Riga - Liepaja-2
Mar. 30: Livani - RSU



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

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings
 1. Champville 21-2 
 2. Al Riyadi 21-3 
 3. Anibal 16-8 
 4. Sagesse 12-12 
 5. Byblos 10-14 
 6. Moutahed 9-14 
 7. Bejjeh 8-16 
 8. Hoops 5-19 

Second Stage: Round 9

Mar. 27: Anibal - Byblos 87-69


Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 28.5
 1. Penigar, Byblos28.5 
 2. Khatib, Champville27.1 
 3. Spencer, Al Riyadi26.4 
 4. Gray, Byblos23.9 
 5. Johnson, Sagesse21.5 
 6. Youngblood, Anibal21.5 
 7. Johnson, Moutahed20.9 
 8. Hoskin, Champville19.8 
 9. Souaid, Bejjeh18.8 
 10. Thompson, Champvi.17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Penigar, Byblos12.1 
 2. Crump, Sagesse11.7 
 3. Ismail, Al Riyadi11.3 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.11.1 
 5. Hoskin, Champville10.1 
 6. Trim, Moutahed9.2 
 7. Hamdar, Hoops9.0 
 8. Bawji, Moutahed8.5 
 9. Bou Abboud, Bejjeh7.3 
 10. Fakhreddine, Hoo.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Ali MAHMOUD
  Al Riyadi
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi6.5 
 2. Akl, Anibal6.4 
 3. Johnson, Moutahed5.6 
 4. Gray, Byblos5.5 
 5. Khatib, Champville5.5 
 6. Ismail, Al Riyadi5.4 
 7. Johnson, Sagesse4.9 
 8. Spencer, Al Riyadi4.1 
 9. Barada, Byblos4.0 
 10. Youngblood, Anibal3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Jasmon YOUNGBLOOD
  Anibal
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Youngblood, Anibal3.0 
 2. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi2.7 
 3. Johnson, Moutahed2.4 
 4. Estephane, Champvi.2.3 
 5. Spencer, Al Riyadi2.1 
 6. Souaid, Bejjeh1.7 
 7. Akl, Anibal1.7 
 8. Thompson, Champvil.1.6 
 9. Johnson, Sagesse1.6 
 10. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Ahmad ISMAIL
  Al Riyadi
  (205-F-76)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.8 
 2. Hamdar, Hoops1.7 
 3. Thompson, Champvil.1.5 
 4. Crump, Sagesse1.4 
 5. Sabra, Byblos1.4 
 6. Youngblood, Anibal1.2 
 7. Hoskin, Champville1.2 
 8. Bou Abboud, Bejjeh1.0 
 9. Fakhreddine, Hoops1.0 
 10. Bitar, Sagesse0.9 



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


Baltic League Challenge Cup: Lietkabelis clinch the trophy - by Eurobasket News

Lietkabelis - Tarvas 71:82

Lietkabelis celebrated victory in Baltic League Challenge Cup. They lost to Rakvere at home court yesterday but having enjoyed a 15-point victory on the road Lietkabelis came out winners on aggregate.
Tarvas gave out everything they had in this one. The Estonian team got to an aggressive start. They registered a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Lietkabelis however answered with a 30-point tally in the second term to step in front 42:39. Tarvas pulled back ahead in the third term. The visitors once again played attentively in defence and secured a 61:58 lead with one quarter remaining. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) gave Tarvas a needed 15-point lead with just over two minutes remaining in regulation but Lietkabelis survived the challenge. Matulionis and Vasiliauskas converted crucial free throws in the dying seconds to cut the deficit and eventually Lietkabelis gained much needed result. Kaspars Cipruss posted 30 points and 15 rebounds for Tarvas. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) added 18 points for the winners. Edgaras Stanionis (193-G-88) and Adomas Drungilas (203-C-90) answered with 13 points each for Lietkabelis.

Lietkabelis: Edgaras Stanionis 13, Adomas Drungilas 13
Tarvas: Kaspars Cipruss 30+15 boards, Reinar Hallik 18, Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) 14


*****************************************************
  MOLDOVA   

Standings

D1 Standings
 1. Donbasket 12-0 
 2. PGU-SDUSHOR 8-3 
 3. Gamma 7-3 
 4. UASM 7-5 
 5. Fireball 5-6 
 6. Politech 3-9 
 7. ASEM 3-9 
 8. Soroka 2-10 

Regular Season: Round 6

Feb. 5: Donbasket - ASEM
Feb. 5: Fireball - UASM
Feb. 4: Politech - Soroka
Mar. 31: PGU-SDUSHOR - Gamma



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


Balkan League Quarterfinals: Mornar unlucky at Kavadarci - by Darko Pekic

The defending Balkan League champion - KK Feni Industries defeated KK Mornar Bar at home in Jasmin Hall - 92:85 after overtime and got a 1-0 lead in the quarterfinal play-off series. The second game will be played in Montenegro next week. Feni had advantage during the whole match but surprisingly Mornar woke up and tied the score at the fourth quarter. They even had the chance to win the game but failed to organize the last attack well. In the overtime Feni played better and deserved the win.

Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) scored 21 points and he was followed by American duo Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) and Akeem Scott (186-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point). They scored 17 points each. For the hometeam Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) led Feni with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Jarrid Frye (194-G/F-85, college: Sacred Heart) had 21 points, including the first six in the OT period, while Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) added 16 points.


BBL : Feni defeated Mornar after OT and got a 1-0 lead in ther series - by Dragan Scepanovic

The defending EUROHOLD Balkan League champion - KK Feni Industries defeated KK Mornar Bar at home in Jasmin Hall - 92:85 after overtime and got a 1-0 lead in the quarterfinal play-off series. The second game is in Montenegro next week.
Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) led Feni with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Jarrid Frye had 21 points, including the first six in the OT period, while Dusan Knezevic added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Marko Simonovski added 12 points.Ivan Jelenic scored 21 for Mornar, Akeem Scott added 17, and Michale Singletary also added 17 in his debut for Mornar. Lazar Radosavljevic finished with 14 points in the loss.The second game of the series is scheduled for the 3rd of April in Topolica Hall in Bar.


MNE S-League 2 Round : Sutjeska win against Lovcen - by Dragan Scepanovic

Sutjeska - Lovcen 72:65 (13:19, 18:9, 20:19, 21:18)
Niksic City SC. Spect 300. Reff: Dragojevic, Savovic (Podgorica) and Kicovic (Bar).
Sutjeska: Kovac 7 (1-1), Zarubica, Vranjes 17 (5-4), Jovanovic, Grabovica 3, Popovic 6 (2-2), Zarko Dragicevic (188-G-81) 12, Jocovic 10 (3-2), Krivokapic, Gajovic 9 (1-1), Kuveljic 1 (2-1), Pejovic 7 (2-1).
Lovcen: Stojanovic 10 (4-3), Djokovic 6 (2-2), Marko Milosevic (202-SF-84) 4 (2-1),Nikola Pavlicevic (192-SG-88) 8, Masan Vrbica (187-G-94) 7, Borilovic, Koprivica, Lopicic 12 (4-4), Ivan Zejak (203-SF-87) 18 (3-3), Milic, Kusovac, Latkovic.


*****************************************************
  MOROCCO   

Standings - Men

D1 Standings
 1. ASS Sale 16-2 
 2. RSB Berkane 14-4 
 3. WAC Casabl. 12-6 
 4. CRA Hoceima 11-6 
 5. MAF Fez 11-7 
 6. PCS Plazza C. 9-9 
 7. FUS Rabat 6-11 
 8. IRT Tanger 5-13 
 9. KAC 3-15 
 10. RCA Casabl. 2-16 



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

Standings

NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Philadelph.76 28-22 
 2. Boston C. 28-22 
 3. New York K. 26-25 
 4. Toronto R. 17-34 
 5. New Jersey N. 17-35 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 41-11 
 2. Indiana P. 29-20 
 3. Milwaukee B. 23-27 
 4. Detroit P. 18-32 
 5. Cleveland C. 17-31 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 35-13 
 2. Orlando M. 32-19 
 3. Atlanta H. 30-22 
 4. Washington W. 11-38 
 5. Charlotte B. 7-41 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 38-12 
 2. Utah Jazz 27-24 
 3. Denver N. 27-24 
 4. Minnesota T. 25-27 
 5. Portland TB 23-27 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 31-19 
 2. LA Clippers 29-21 
 3. Phoenix Suns 25-26 
 4. Golde State W. 20-29 
 5. Sacramento K. 17-33 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 35-14 
 2. Dallas M. 29-22 
 3. Memphis G. 27-21 
 4. Houston R. 27-24 
 5. N.Orleans H. 13-37 

Regular Season: Round 91

Mar. 28: Boston C. - Utah Jazz 94-82
Mar. 28: Golde State W. - N.Orleans H. 87-102
Mar. 28: Charlotte B. - Minnesota T. 83-88
Mar. 28: Atlanta H. - Chicago B. 77-98
Mar. 28: Cleveland C. - Detroit P. 75-87
Mar. 28: Sacramento K. - San Antonio S. 112-117
Mar. 28: New York K. - Orlando M. 108-86
Mar. 28: Toronto R. - Denver N. 105-96
Mar. 28: LA Clippers - Phoenix Suns 103-86
Mar. 28: New Jersey N. - Indiana P. 100-84

Regular Season: Round 92

Mar. 29: Indiana P. - Washington W.
Mar. 29: Portland TB - N.Orleans H.
Mar. 29: Miami Heat - Dallas M.
Mar. 29: LA Lakers - Oklah.City T.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.3
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.3 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.8 
 3. James, Miami Heat26.7 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.6 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..24.2 
 6. Wade, Miami Heat22.9 
 7. Rose, Chicago B.22.8 
 8. Williams, New J.22.0 
 9. Ellis, Golde S.21.9 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.9 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers12.2 
 4. Varejao, Clevelan.11.5 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.11.1 
 6. Humphries, New J.10.9 
 7. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.8 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.6 
 9. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 10. Smith, Atlanta H.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.2 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.10.8 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers8.8 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.6 
 5. Williams, New J.8.3 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Parker, San A.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.8.0 
 9. Wall, Washington W.7.9 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.7.5 
Steals Per Game
 Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Conley, Memphis G.2.5 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers2.4 
 3. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 4. James, Miami Heat2.0 
 5. Lowry, Houston R.1.8 
 6. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 7. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 8. Iguodala, Philadel.1.8 
 9. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 10. Rondo, Boston C.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.2.5 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.2 
 4. Jordan, LA Clippers2.1 
 5. Bynum, LA Lakers2.0 
 6. Smith, Atlanta H.1.9 
 7. Dalembert, Houst.1.9 
 8. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 9. Hibbert, Indiana P.1.8 
 10. Gasol, Memphis G.1.8 


Wizards expected to bring back Cartier Martin - by Eurobasket News

The Wizards are set to have a reunion with Cartier Martin (6'7''-G/F-84, college: Kansas St.) and sign him to a 10-day contract in advance of their game against the Indiana Pacers, according to a league source with knowledge of the situation. Martin is averaging 18.3 points and has connected on 15 of 27 three-point field goal attempts (55.6 percent) in seven games with the Iowa Energy of the NBA Development League.

Martin averaged 26.3 points and 4.7 rebounds in 30 games in China before joining the Wizards D-League affiliate in Iowa. He also is familiar with the Wizards, having spent part of the past two seasons with the Wizards and participating in summer league with John Wall in the summer of 2010. He averaged 4.0 points and shot 39.4 percent from beyond the three-point line in 52 games for the Wizards last season but suffered a stress fracture in his left foot after earlier missing action with a strained right patella tendon.

The Wizards cut Martin last April to allow the team to sign Larry Owens. Martin is expected to replace Edwin Ubiles, who averaged 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds in four games with the Wizards. He scored a career-high 10 points in the Wizards 95-92 loss to Atlanta on Saturday but did not appear in the teams loss on Monday to the Detroit Pistons.

Martin has also played for Golden State and Charlotte and has career averages of 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds. He also has hit 37.7 percent of his shots from long distance. RidiculousUpside.com was first to report the call-up.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Spurs sign point guard Patty Mills - by Eurobasket News

Australian point guard Patrick Mills (6'0''-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) has signed with the San Antonio Spurs after last playing in China during the NBA lockout.

The Spurs announced that the former Portland Trail Blazers backup will be in uniform Tuesday night at Phoenix. Mills had been in talks with the Spurs since last week but first needed to resolve work visa issues.

He averaged 5.1 points and around 11 minutes a game in two seasons with Portland. He essentially fills the void left by point guard T.J. Ford, who abruptly retired this month following another scare to his surgically repaired spine.

The Spurs are second in the West and trying to upgrade their roster for a playoff push. They added Stephen Jackson at the trade deadline and signed forward Boris Diaw last week.

Courtesy of ESPN


Knicks' Stoudemire out 2-4 weeks with bulging disk - by Eurobasket News

Just when the New York Knicks started to get the production from Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) that they needed, they have lost the forward for two to four weeks with a bulging disk in his lower back.

'Amar'e will return to New York from Miami today after seeking a second opinion,' the Knicks said in a statement. 'Both doctors (the team's and one in Florida) have agreed that he should undergo non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation that will include an epidural.'

The good news is that Stoudemire, who missed Monday's win against the Milwaukee Bucks, will not have surgery right now and in a best-case scenario will return for the final nine games of the regular season. If he misses four weeks, he will be available for the first round of the playoffs, if the Knicks qualify.

They are two games ahead of the Bucks for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference entering Wednesday. Both teams have 16 games remaining, but Milwaukee has the easier schedule seven games against teams above .500, five at home. The Bucks have nine games against sub-.500 teams, five at home.

New York has 10 games remaining against plus-.500 teams, five at home, and six games against sub-.500 teams, just two at home.

The Bucks lead the season series 2-1, with one more game April 11 in Milwaukee. Head-to-head will be used as a tiebreaker, if necessary, then conference records. Entering Wednesday, the Knicks are 18-15 in the Eastern Conference to 17-18 for Milwaukee.

The Knicks are also dealing with other injuries: Point guard Jeremy Lin (sore left knee) will miss Wednesday's home game against the Orlando Magic, his second in a row, and forward Carmelo Anthony (sore right groin) is probable.

Guard Baron Davis, who will start for Lin, had missed a majority of the season with a herniated disk in his back and really is not in condition to play starter's minutes. He has played more than 30 minutes just twice since debuting Feb. 20. Guard Mike Bibby and possibly guard Toney Douglas will see more playing time until Lin returns.

Rookie guard Iman Shumpert has started with Stoudemire out, giving the Knicks a small lineup to open the game.

Stoudemire's loss comes at a bad time for the Knicks, who are 7-1 since coach Mike D'Antoni resigned after a six-game losing streak. Interim coach Mike Woodson has restored the emphasis on defense, and New York is making the offense work with a group effort.

Stoudemire was a big part of the resurgence. He averaged 16.9 points and 8.1 rebounds in the first seven games under Woodson. But Stoudemire's back tightened in Saturday's victory against the Detroit Pistons.

The next two weeks will be telling for the Knicks. They are home to the Orlando Magic, who are third in the East; at the Atlanta Hawks, who are sixth; at the Indiana Pacers, who are fifth; at the Magic; home to the Chicago Bulls, who are first overall in the league; at the Bulls and at the Bucks.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Wizards sign Cartier Martin to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News

Washington Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld announced today that the team has signed guard/forward Cartier Martin (6'7''-G/F-84, college: Kansas St.) to a 10-day contract.

Martin (6-6, 220), has averaged 18.3 points and 4.7 rebounds while shooting .489 from the floor and .556 from three-point range in seven games with the Iowa Energy of the NBA D-League this season. He has appeared with the Wizards in the previous two seasons, averaging 4.3 points over 60 games with the team.

Martin was originally signed to a 10-day contract by the Wizards on March 30, 2010. After finishing the season with the team and averaging 6.4 points over eight games, he returned for the 2010-11 season. Martin averaged 4.0 points over 52 games with the Wizards in 2010-11 before being waived on April 6.

A product of Kansas State, Martin has previously spent time with the Charlotte Bobcats (averaging 2.6 points over 33 games in 2008-09) and Golden State Warriors (averaging 9.0 points over 10 games in 2009-10) in addition to experience overseas in Turkey, Italy and China. He has also played in 59 NBA D-League games since the 2008-09 season (all with Iowa), where he has compiled averages of 18.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Blazers reopen search for general manager - by Eurobasket News

There was a brief moment Tuesday night when it was like the good old days in the Rose Garden. You know, back when this building was the place to be in Portland. Back when the team was a winner. Back when the product was exciting. Back when the vibe and energy could give you goosebumps.

It was the third quarter, and the Blazers had trimmed a double-digit halftime deficit to five against the mighty Oklahoma City Thunder. The Blazers were playing hard, and they had flashes of flair. Could it really be that all this lackluster season needed was a new coach and a group of new faces like J.J. Hickson, Jonny Flynn and Nolan Smith?

Would have been a great story, but it's time for everybody to get real.

The playoffs are not happening. The coach was not the biggest problem in Portland. And the roster needs a major overhaul.

And that's why the biggest news of the day came well before Tuesday's tipoff, the type of news needed to take the first step toward re-establishing the Rose Garden as the place to be: Team president Larry Miller said the team has reopened its search for a general manager.

Go ahead, get your jokes in. What's the rush, right? It's only been 308 days since Rich Cho was fired.

But I have a feeling there is a reason why the search has lingered for nearly a year.

I wonder if the Blazers are waiting on Steve Kerr (6'3''-G-65, college: Arizona).

Kerr was pursued by the Blazers after Cho was fired. But the former Phoenix general manager and current TNT TV analyst said he wanted to spend time with his family, particularly his kids. One of his sons, Nick, has since graduated, and is now playing for the University of San Diego. He has two other teenage children.

Has one year been enough for Kerr? Is he the man on the Blazers' radar?

Kerr was unavailable for comment Tuesday. Miller, when asked about Kerr, paused, smiled, and then reiterated the franchise stance since Cho was fired: the team will not comment on candidates.

Kerr had mixed results during his three years in Phoenix. His flops: He hired Terry Porter as coach and signed Shaquille O'Neal -- both of whom never fit. But he also made some heady moves that quickly thrust the team back into relevancy and the Western Conference finals: He traded Raja Bell and Boris Diaw for Jason Richardson and Jared Dudley. He drafted Robin Lopez and Goran Dragic.

Miller said the Blazers want to find a candidate with previous general manager experience. If they can't find that, they want a proven, well-regarded No. 2, much like Seattle found when it hired Sam Presti from the Spurs.

He said the search started Tuesday, and may be stalled until the season, and even the playoffs, are finished and teams allow their employees to interview.

The only certainty is that Miller said the previous candidates who interviewed will not be revisited. Those who are known to have interviewed last summer are Dennis Lindsey from San Antonio, Neil Olshey of the Clippers, David Griffin (who has since been hired by Cleveland) and Troy Weaver from Oklahoma City.

If Kerr is still committed to his family, and turns down the interest from the Blazers, there are other possibilities.

Is Danny Ainge going to stay in Boston? If not, the Eugene native has a track record of executing the exact move the Blazers need this summer: taking good draft picks and turning them into gold, like he did when he traded the No. 5 overall pick (Jeff Green) to Seattle for Ray Allen, then trading Al Jefferson and expiring contracts for Kevin Garnett. In one season, the Celtics went from the cellar to NBA champions.

Where the Blazers' target is, I don't know. But I get the sense their list is very short and their aim is big. I told Miller on Tuesday that Allen has a history of making a big splash: luring Nate McMillan away from Seattle. Landing Mike Holmgren, then Pete Carroll for his Seahawks.

Miller got a big smile.

'He does like that,' Miller said.

Miller said the only timeline is that the general manager is hired first, so he can select his coach. So Tuesday was a start, but an important start.

Because for the past 308 days, it has been Miller, acting general manager Chad Buchanan and salary cap analyst Joe Cronin teaming to conduct a draft, a free agency process and a trading deadline.

They've taken some risks, like not extending Nicolas Batum. They've made some bad trades (Andre Miller and Rudy Fernandez for Raymond Felton: enough said). And they've made some poor signings (Jamal Crawford, Kurt Thomas).

But one thing they haven't done is hamstring the franchise to bad contracts. They knew this would be an experimental year, a trial test to see how guys like Felton and Crawford fit. It has been a disaster, but at least it isn't a long-term death sentence.

So Tuesday was a start. The start to gain some direction, the start to returning the Rose Garden to the days of old.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com


Report: Don Nelson headed to hall of fame - by Eurobasket News

The Basketball Hall of Fame will soon be making room for the winningest coach in the history of the NBA.

Don Nelson will be announced as part of the newest induction class this weekend, reports Eddie Sefko of The Dallas Morning News.

Nelson, 71, garnered 1,335 victories over 31-seasons as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks.

'Very seldom do people get to do something they love to do their whole life,' Nelson told the Mercury News on Wednesday. 'But I'm a lucky guy to stay in the business as long as I did. This is just frosting on the cake. It doesn't get any better than going into the Hall of Fame.'

As a player, Nelson won five NBA Championships as a member of the Boston Celtics, but never led a team to an NBA Title as head coach, a note that has kept out of the Hall of Fame for several years.

Nelson did lead his teams to the playoffs 18 times in 31 seasons. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1983, 1985 and 1992.

'I thought he was going to get into the shuffleboard hall of fame before the basketball hall of fame, the way things were going,' former NBA head coach Del Harris told The Dallas Morning News. 'Here's a guy who's won more games than anybody who ever strapped on the whistle. That in itself ought to be enough.'

Nelson is one of 12 finalists for this year's Hall of Fame class along with Reggie Miller, Rick Patino, Katrina McClain, Maurice Cheeks, Bill Fitch, Dick Motta, Hank Nichols, Jamaal Wilkes, Ralph Sampson and the All-American Red Heads team.

The class will officially be announced on Monday in New Orleans before the championship game of the NCAA Tournament.

Courtesy of http://www.foxsportssouthwest.com


Miami Heat's LeBron James has dislocated left ring finger, will play - by Eurobasket News

The Heat pulled out the pads for Wednesdays practice, one hard enough that coach Erik Spolestra and LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) each said he felt good about James left ring finger making it through without further injury.

Thats the finger James admitted Wednesday to dislocating during the Heats Monday loss at Indiana. James said X-rays revealed no break, and he will be ready for Thursday's game against Dallas, the Mavericks first appearance in AmericanAirlines Arena since the denouement of last years NBA Finals.

While James shoots right-handed, he said the injury, impacts dribbling and rebounding, where youve got to squeeze the ball. I hate using injuries as an excuse for anything. Im in uniform, then I should be good.

But he also said, Its definitely a different feeling. You cant feel much of it because its bandaged. But it keeps it from being more injured. Its probably an injury Im going to have for a while. The only recovery for it the docs told me is rest, and we all know I have none of that.

James averages 37.7 minutes per game this season, which would tie 2008-09 for his career low. But that season didnt have a lockout-compressed schedule.

LeBrons tough. Ive seen him play through injuries in the last year and a half that most players wouldnt, Spolestra said. Im not just talking about games. But hes a guy who rarely misses a practice or a shootaround. A day like Wednesday], you could make a case he could sit out to rest. But he understands how important the work part is. In terms of playing, his injuries have been deemed to not get worse if he does play.

James said: I just dont like to let my teammates down, honestly. If Im able to run, if Im able to jump and effect the other team and help our team win the ball game, injury or no injury, I like to be on the court. Ive had a lot of battles over the years with myself and the coaches and trainers of trying to keep me from playing. Sometimes, I know its best for the team for me to sit. Sometimes, personally, I would like to play.

Tuesday was a day of rest and a night of parties Shane Battiers Battioke fundraiser for his college scholarship-providing foundation and Chris Boshs birthday celebration. On Wednesday, the Heat tried to rectify what led to tepid performances in spankings by Oklahoma City and Indiana.

Spolestra found the Heats force and pace of Sundays and Mondays losses polar opposite of the Christmas Day season-opening romp against Dallas.

Its not about watching film, its not about talking, Its about getting back in this gym and sweating, Spolestra said. Every team goes through this. You have slippage. Sometimes, you just take things for granted and become flat in the course of a long NBA season. This seasons been a challenge for everybody, so its not an excuse. We were flat in our last two performances, but also in the last three weeks on the road, we have not been able to play consistently with energy or efficiency.

So, [Wednesday], its about getting back to work and having a training camp-like practice. We had everybody out there except Mike.

Thats three-point ace Mike Miller, still out with a sprained ankle. Spolestra said Miller is working out on the court but without contact.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


D-Fenders' Malcolm Thomas signs with Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Malcolm Thomas (6'9''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: San Diego St.) has signed with the Houston Rockets, it was announced yesterday. Thomas, the seventh call-up for the Los Angeles D-Fenders this season alone and 10th in franchise history, is the 44th player to be called up to the NBA from the NBA Development League this season.

Signed to an NBA roster for the second time this year, Thomas, a 6-9 forward out of San Diego State, appeared in three games with the Spurs earlier this season, totaling a point, three rebounds and an assist in 15 minutes. Additionally, Thomas has played in 23 D-League games (14 starts), averaging 13.0 points (63.4 FG%), 8.9 rebounds (3rd most in league), and 2.1 blocks (3rd most in league) in 31.5 minutes.

Acquired by the D-Fenders on December 28th from the Los Angeles Lakers preseason roster, Thomas helped lead the Aztecs to an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance last season, averaging 11.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.02 blocks in 30.4 minutes. After just two seasons at San Diego State, Thomas concluded his career with the Aztecs as the school's second leading shot blocker of all-time while ranking eighth all-time in both rebound average and field goal percentage.

The D-Fenders, who currently hold the league's best record at 33-11 and were the first team to clinch a playoff berth this season, return to action today at Toyota Sports Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


NBA fines Glen Davis $35K for flipping off fans - by Eurobasket News

Big Baby extended his big finger skyward and the NBA has responded in kind.

On Wednesday, the NBA announced that Orlando Magic forward Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU) had been fined $35,000 for flipping the bird to Air Canada Centre fans during a 117-101 win over the Toronto Raptors on Monday night. The league termed his act an 'obscene gesture'.

Davis finished with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 1 asisst on 5-for-8 shooting in 23 minutes against the Raptors.

Back in January, Davis was issued a technical foul for taking off his shorts during a game against the San Antonio Spurs. Davis was also suspended by the Magic for two games in February for an outburst during a team shootaround.

Davis, 26, is averaging 7.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in 21.7 minutes per game off Orlando's bench this season.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Wednesday's games review (10): Carmelo Anthony leads shorthanded Knicks by Magic - by Eurobasket News

Boston C. - Utah Jazz 94-82
Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) found Keyon Dooling (6'3''-G-80, college: Missouri) for a 3-pointer. Then the Boston big man hit a fallaway jumper of his own. Back at the other end, Garnett grabbed a rebound to start a fast break that ended with Avery Bradley at the free throw line. Just like that, the Celtics broke open a tie game and took a seven-point lead they never relinquished. Garnett had 23 points and 10 rebounds on Wednesday night to lead Boston to a 94-82 victory over the Utah Jazz and move the Celtics back into a tie for first place in the Atlantic Division. Garnett had 10 points and three assists in the fourth quarter, when Boston recovered after blowing an 18-point lead. 'He's been playing like that a lot in the second half of the season,' said Celtics swingman Paul Pierce, who scored 20 points. 'We've been going to him a lot out there. And he's been inspiring on both ends of the floor.' Brandon Bass scored 19 points, and Rajon Rondo had 14 assists for Boston, which won for the fifth time in six tries to move into a tie with the Philadelphia 76ers atop the Atlantic Division. After playing at Minnesota on Friday night, the Celtics play seven games in 11 nights against likely playoff teams. 'We kind of smell the end of the season, with the playoffs coming,' Pierce said. 'This is the time of year you've got to step it up and get ready.' Former Celtic Al Jefferson had 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Jazz, scoring 10 in a 17-3, third-quarter run that turned an 18-point deficit into a two-possession game. The Jazz tied it early in the fourth before Boston scored the next seven points-with Garnett contributing on all of them-to pull away. 'He's just so experienced and such a competitor,' Jazz coach Tyrone Corbin said. 'He's going to do whatever he can do to help his team win. He did it on both ends of the floor tonight. He made the big shots; defensively, he fought and clawed.' Garnett and Jefferson, who were traded for each other in the 2007 deal that created the New Big 3 in Boston, had a physical matchup all game, picking up matching technicals with 6 minutes left in the game. Even in the final seconds, with the outcome already settled, Garnett wouldn't let Jefferson put up a show. 'Just another game,' Jefferson said. 'That's all I'm going to say about that.' Utah had won seven of its previous eight games. Gordon Hayward scored 19 points, and Paul Millsap had 16 for the Jazz, who fell into a three-way tie with Denver and Houston in a race for the last two playoff spots in the Western Conference. 'Any time you have to battle from 18 points down, then you basically have to start over again,' said Hayward, who had back-to-back blocks in the fourth as the Jazz keep the game within reach. 'That's definitely something we've shown on this road trip. We have fight. We're never going to give up. The heart on this team is great. We've just got to be a little bit better in the first half and not get down so we don't have to fight back like that.' The Celtics took a 44-29 lead with 2:22 left in the half on consecutive alley-oops from Rondo to Ryan Hollins. Boston opened an 18-point lead, 61-43, with 7:40 to play in the third quarter. But the Jazz scored 17 of the next 20 points-10 of them from Jefferson- to make it a four-point game. They then ran off six in a row to tie it 66-all, scoring the first five of the fourth quarter on Enes Kanter's jumper and a three-point play by Alec Burks. That's when the Celtics snapped out of their slump. After Garnett put up an assist, basket and rebound in quick succession, Bradley hit a pair of free throws that 73-66. The Jazz never got closer than three points after that. *Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

Sacramento K. - San Antonio S. 112-117
Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) scored 20 points, Kawhi Leonard had 19 and the San Antonio Spurs beat the Sacramento Kings 117-112 on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory. Tim Duncan added 18 points and eight rebounds for San Antonio, Gary Neal scored 13 points, and Tony Parker had 10 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds. Playing their fifth game in six nights, the Spurs shot 54 percent and outrebounded the Kings en route to their ninth victory in 10 games. Isaiah Thomas scored a career-high 28 points and had 10 assists for Sacramento, DeMarcus Cousins had 25 points and 11 rebounds, Marcus Thornton added 18 points and Jason Thompson had 15. The Kings have lost four straight. Ginobili connected on a 3-pointer and came back quickly with a three-point play to put the Spurs in front 113-103 with 37 seconds left to play. Sharing the ball and running their offense precisely, the Spurs managed to maintain the lead throughout the fourth quarter. Stephen Jackson made a fast-break layup off a pass from Parker, and Neal followed with a baseline drive for a basket, giving San Antonio a 103-96 at the 3:47 mark. Since starting the season losing eight of 10 on the road, the Spurs have been difficult to beat away from home. The victory was their 13th in 15 games and their seventh consecutive victory overall in Sacramento. San Antonio has defeated the Kings in 13 of 14 games. Neal made a 3-pointer and followed with consecutive baskets early in the fourth quarter, and Leonard's corner 3 put San Antonio ahead 93-86 with just under 9 minutes remaining. The Spurs shot 70 percent (13 of 20) in the third quarter, yet were still outscored 29-28 by the Kings. Duncan had eight points in the third to help the Spurs take an 81-78 lead. Thornton helped keep the Kings close by scoring 11 points. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Golde State W. - N.Orleans H. 87-102
Monty Williams (6'8''-G-71, college: Notre Dame) struggled to describe his team's latest effort Wednesday night. And for a change, that was actually a good thing for the New Orleans Hornets. Marco Belinelli had 22 points and six assists, Jarrett Jack added 20 points and nine assists and the Hornets earned a rare victory by routing the Golden State Warriors 102-87 on Wednesday night in a matchup of shorthanded teams out of the playoff chase. ''It's past a mystery,'' coach said when asked where the scoring will come from in a shattered lineup each night. ''It's more like a conundrum.'' Carl Landry also chipped in 20 points and eight rebounds to help New Orleans build a 20-point lead in the third quarter and cruise to victory for a change. The Hornets, last in the Western Conference, won for only the 13th time this season. ''Teams better watch out,'' said guard Greivis Vasquez, who had six points, six assists and four rebounds. ''We might mess around and win a couple games.'' The Warriors have fallen so fast they're suddenly in a similar situation. David Lee had 28 points, seven rebounds and five assists and Klay Thompson scored 13 for the Warriors, who fell to 2-8 since trading leading scorer Monta Ellis to Milwaukee in a move that netted injured center Andrew Bogut. While the trade was made for future success, it hasn't helped the present. ''There's no such thing as overlooking a team when we're the third-worst team in the West,'' Lee said. ''We don't have that luxury. We just didn't play well tonight.'' The plodding pace perhaps should've been predictable. Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (sprained right ankle) missed his 11th straight game - and 21st overall - and, along with new big man Andrew Bogut (fractured left ankle), is unlikely to play again this season. Andris Biedrins (strained right groin) also wasn't in uniform. Trevor Ariza (sore right ankle), Chris Kaman (illness), Emeka Okafor (sore left knee) and Eric Gordon (bruised right knee) all sat out for the Hornets. Gordon has played in only two games this season. The absence of so many starters showed. The flow of the game was mundane and the typically bouncing Bay Area crowd was subdued, even though an announced 18,771 fans still attended. Other than a few quick bursts, there wasn't much to cheer about. New Orleans scored 10 straight in the second quarter on a run capped by a pick-and-roll pass from Vasquez to Jason Smith for a layup that gave the Hornets a 39-26 lead. They went ahead by 17 at halftime, and boos rang out so loud from the home crowd that Warriors owner Joe Lacob - jeered for several minutes last week during Hall of Famer Chris Mullin's jersey retirement ceremony at the arena - didn't even get out of his seat. The Hornets built a 69-49 lead halfway through the third quarter on a layup by Jack. Golden State made a brief run to close within a dozen before New Orleans regrouped and blew away the Warriors. ''You still have a job to do,'' Jack said he tells his younger teammates at this point in the season. ''Don't sell yourself short. Don't sell the team, the city or the fans short. They come out each and every game. Go out and play hard and don't do yourself a disservice.'' Pride is about all either team has left to play for. The Hornets are four games back of Sacramento, the next worst team in the Western Conference. Only Charlotte and Washington have fewer wins than New Orleans, which actually has more victories on the road (8) than at home (5). Golden State is a shell of the team it was a couple weeks ago. The Warriors still had dim playoff hopes when they traded Ellis - a fan favorite and heart of the Warriors offense - along with Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown to Milwaukee for Bogut. The Australian center and 2005 No. 1 overall pick will not play this season but is expected to be Golden State's franchise big man in the future. *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Toronto R. - Denver N. 105-96
Andrea Bargnani (6'10''-F/C-85) reached a milestone by scoring 26 points in the Toronto Raptors 105-96 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday. Bargnani came in 13 points shy of 6,000 career points, and reached the milestone with a free throw late in the second quarter. He is just the fourth player score 6,000 points in a Raptors uniform, joining Vince Carter, Chris Bosh and Morris Peterson. Bargnani had a stretch of 10 straight points in the fourth quarter as Toronto opened a seven point lead. Ben Uzoh and Gary Forbes also chipped in as the Raptors erased an early fourth quarter deficit. DeMar DeRozan, who returned after missing two games with a left ankle injury, had 11 third quarter points and finished with 17. Jose Calderon finished with 10 assists and 10 points, to stretch his streak to four games with 10 plus assists. Calderon is third in the NBA with 18 games of 10 or more assists, trailing only Steve Nash (31) and Rajon Rondon (25). Denver scored 10 unanswered points early in the third to take their first lead of the game. Toronto responded with a late 8-3 run capped off by a Uzoh lay-in to tie it at 85. Uzoh, who was signed to a 10-day contract on Tuesday, finished with 5 points. DeRozan and Raptors coach Dwane Casey were both assessed technical fouls in the third quarter for arguing non-calls. The Nuggets used a late 8-2 run, including two dunks from Al Harrington, to take a brief 53-52 lead. However, Linas Kleiza, who was making his first start since Jan., 27, drained a buzzer beating three-pointer to give the Raptors a 55-53 lead at the break. The Raptors used a 9-2 run to take a five point lead after one quarter. *Courtesy of http://toronto.ctv.ca

New York K. - Orlando M. 108-86
Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) had a message Wednesday night for injured teammates Amar'e Stoudemire and Jeremy Lin. 'Take all the time you need getting back, guys. I've got this.' Of course, 'Melo didn't actually utter those words, but the way he put the sizzling-hot Knicks on his back during their 108-86 rout of the Orlando Magic spoke volumes about his confidence and his ability to take the reins when his team needs it most. Since losing Stoudemire, Lin and their 32 combined points per game two games ago, Anthony has been dominant, playing like the 'Melo of old and scoring in bunches for New York (26-25), which has won eight of its past nine games and moved above .500 for the first time since Jan. 12. In Monday's 89-80 win over Milwaukee, Anthony poured in 28 points with 12 rebounds, and on Wednesday night, the All-Star scored 25 points on 9-of-15 shooting, gathered five rebounds and dished out six assists in just 26 minutes. Before Monday, 'Melo had been held under 20 points for seven straight games, and Anthony's 53 points over the past two games are his highest two-game total since scoring 60 in back-to-back losses to Milwaukee and Denver in mid-January. 'I'm absolutely loving it,' said Knicks center Tyson Chandler, who had nine points and nine rebounds. 'He's doing a great job on both ends. He's playing incredible defense for us right now, he's getting in and banging, helping me out on the glass, and we all know he can fill it up on the other end.' But Anthony insists that his increased production is not a result of his co-stars being out, particularly the six-time All-Star Stoudemire. 'We've been playing extremely well, guys seem to be responding pretty well, and we've been pretty locked in on our mission right now,' Anthony said. 'I don't think I'm doing anything more or less than when (Stoudemire) was here. I'm just playing my part, playing my position and trying to be one of the leaders on this team.' However, to say that 'Melo is the same passive, disinterested 'Melo that he was when Stoudemire and Lin were healthy would be to ignore just how exceptional he's been over the past two games. It's becoming evident that Anthony's preferred and most comfortable role is that of the undisputed go-to guy on the floor, and he thrives when he has to put the team on his back. With so many injuries, the Knicks have needed 'Melo to be 'Melo, and he hasn't disappointed. He's done everything he's been asked by coach Mike Woodson and more. And he's done it with a considerable injury of his own, playing through the ache of a nagging right groin injury - a willingness to fight through pain that didn't go unnoticed by his teammates. 'It definitely fires everybody up to see your star player out there sacrificing his body and playing defense and doing all the little things, the intangible things, rebounding and blocking shots,' said point guard Baron Davis, who had 11 points, seven rebounds and six assists. 'It's definitely an inspiration from the guys who have the energy and have the spunk to do it.' Wednesday's game was close for a while, and Orlando actually led 29-25 after one quarter. But a 12-0 run late in the second quarter helped the Knicks build a 16-point lead before halftime. Then Anthony scored eight of the Knicks' first 10 points to start the second half, sparking a 21-0 run that turned a 69-49 lead into an insurmountable 88-49 advantage in just five minutes. Rookie Iman Shumpert scored a career-high 25 points, Steve Novak scored 16 and J.R. Smith added 12 for the Knicks. Despite being undersized, New York outrebounded the Magic 49-34 - Magic center Dwight Howard had just five boards with 12 points in 28 minutes - and the Knicks had just 13 turnovers after turning the ball over 67 times in the previous three games. 'That to me is a sign of a good quality team that wants to win,' Woodson said. 'We're trying to play for something; we're trying to get to the top of our division. My job and my staff's (job) is to continue to push them to get them to believe that they can.' The Knicks had every reason to lose Wednesday night, and no one would have blamed them if they did. They had no Amar'e, no Lin and a gimpy 'Melo. They were playing a dangerous Orlando team, the No. 3 seed in the East, with a host of deadeye shooters and the league's most dominant big man inside. But none of it mattered. Anthony wouldn't allow it to. Sure, there's still the question of how 'Melo being 'Melo will work once his teammates are back on the court. Anthony operates the most smoothly with the ball on his hands, rarely thriving in the pick-and-roll game or as a spot-up shooter, so when Lin and Stoudemire return, it'll be interesting to see how Anthony and the Knicks adjust. But for now, the onus is on Anthony to keep the Knicks on their upward trend - and that's just how he likes it. He was vintage 'Melo on Wednesday night, and while that may not be what the Knicks will need later, it's perfect right now. 'Times like this is always fun time, right before the playoffs, (and) guys have to step up their game,' Anthony said. 'It's fun time, games like tonight, games like Milwaukee, (and) we're going to have a lot more games like that down the stretch. Why not want to play those basketball games?' *Courtesy of www.foxsportsflorida.com

Atlanta H. - Chicago B. 77-98
Home or away, with or without Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis), the Chicago Bulls just keep on winning. Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) scored 22 points and led a flurry of 3-pointers as the NBA-leading Bulls took another game on the road, blowing out the Atlanta Hawks 98-77 on Wednesday night. Deng was 5 of 8 from beyond the arc and the Bulls finished 9 of 16 overall to improve their NBA-best record away from home to 21-6 and their overall mark to 41-11, even while missing Rose for the eighth straight game with a shoulder injury. The Bulls haven't missed a beat, winning six times without their MVP. 'We played great,' Deng said. 'Guys got easy looks because of the ball movement.' Chicago built an 18-point lead in the second quarter. The Hawks scored the final six points of the half, then started the third quarter on a 10-2 run to get to 56-52. It was all Bulls from there. They ripped off 20 of the next 26 points and a hefty contingent of Chicago fans turned Atlanta's arena into the United Center South, breaking out the 'Let's Go Bulls!' chant. 'The thing we did well is, even when they made their run, we responded right away,' Deng said. 'It was just a great team effort.' Atlanta's frustration boiled over midway through the fourth quarter. The Bulls took off on another fast break, leaving Joe Johnson as the only man back against three Chicago players. Carlos Boozer flipped a behind-the-back pass to Taj Gibson, who was tackled - football style - by Johnson, both players going down in the middle of the lane. Amazingly, Johnson wasn't even called for a flagrant foul, but the Bulls were hardly flustered. The final minutes were nothing more than a highlight show by the road team, plus a chance for Chicago's fans to chant for little-used Brian Scalabrine to get in the game. He checked in with a little over a minute remaining. Deng had plenty of help. Boozer scored 20 points, Gibson added 19, while Joakim Noah and John Lucas chipped in with 10 apiece. Josh Smith led Atlanta with 19 points, but he had only six in the second half. 'It's been pretty remarkable, with all the guys that have gone down, to have the record that we do,' Chicago's Kyle Korver said. 'Obviously, we'd rather have Derrick playing. But guys keep stepping up.' The Hawks raced to a 13-5 lead, forcing Chicago to call an early timeout. But Deng and the Bulls turned the tide with their deadly accuracy from beyond the arc. 'Chicago is a very disciplined team,' Johnson said. 'Everybody knows their role and plays their role to the fullest.' Deng made three straight from long range. Lucas swished a pair. Korver and C.J. Watson also connected. Chicago outscored the Hawks 33-13 over the first 9 1/2 minutes of the second quarter, storming ahead 54-36. 'The last couple of games, they beat us in the paint, so we focused on that. But they came out and made shots,' Atlanta's Jeff Teague said. 'Everybody was hitting shots, from the point guards to the forwards. Not much you can do about that.' After making their first seven treys, the Bulls finally missed when Lucas' attempt bounced off the rim just before the buzzer, but the visiting team still went off with a 54-42 lead. Chicago made 12 of 18 shots in the second period and did its usual stifling job at the defensive end, holding the Hawks to 8-of-21 shooting. Atlanta finished 32 of 80 (40 percent) from the field, looking very much like a weary team playing for the fourth time in five nights. Teague had 13 points and eight assists, while Johnson was held to 12 points - well off his team-leading 19.1 average. 'We couldn't get anything going,' Smith said. 'We were trying to create some kind of energy, some kind of momentum. It was hard to generate.' Johnson said the grueling schedule wasn't the only problem. 'Sometimes, we're not so disciplined,' he said. 'It seems like there's a few guys who don't know their roles on this team. We do a lot of things that don't help us.' *Courtesy of www.thestate.com

LA Clippers - Phoenix Suns 103-86
The Clippers' playoff chances are looking stronger and stronger. The Phoenix Suns' situation is becoming bleaker with every loss. Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) threw down three dunks in a 1:40 span late in the fourth quarter and had 27 points and 14 rebounds in the Clippers' 103-86 victory over the Suns on Wednesday night. It was less than a week ago that the Clips returned from an 0-3 trip that put coach Vinny Del Negro on the hot seat. But he received a vote of confidence from owner Donald Sterling, and the team has suddenly taken off in the right direction. ''Winning is the best medicine,'' Griffin said. ''We lost three games in a row before we came home, and the world was about to fall apart for us. But we're doing a better job of not letting teams fight back into it and making it harder on ourselves - at least we have the last three games. We're trying to finish out games and go to the playoffs on the right foot.'' Chris Paul had 15 points and 15 assists to help the Clippers move two games behind the Lakers in the Pacific Division. They have won five straight at home since their 91-87 loss to the Suns on March 15. The Clippers and Suns are among nine teams separated by six games in the race for the final five Western Conference playoff spots. ''Right now we control our own destiny,'' Paul said. ''As long as we continue to win games, we don't have to keep looking over our shoulders seeing what other teams are doing. We're playing with more of a sense of urgency. I don't know why it's starting to come now, but we're starting to believe in each other. ''There's a lot of season left. Even though there's only 16 games to go, a lot can happen, so we're just going to keep trying to stay the course.'' Marcin Gortat led Phoenix with 23 points and seven rebounds. Steve Nash had 15 assists, but only one point - on a free throw that came after a technical foul against Bobby Simmons with 4:14 to play. ''We didn't play well,'' said Nash, 0 for 4 from the field with four turnovers. ''We didn't make shots and we gave up offensive rebounds (13). We have 15 games left and we have to regroup and find a way to win games as soon as possible. We have to be optimistic. We're lucky to still be in this position. We have overachieved thus far, but we are in a position to crawl back into the playoffs and prove everybody wrong.'' In the 18 games Paul and Nash have played head-to-head, their teams have each won nine times. ''They're two of the elite point guards,'' Griffin said. ''Obviously, Steve is older and in his last years, or whatever, and CP's in his prime right now and it's extremely fun to watch him. But it's also fun to see how good Steve Nash still is at his age and how much he helps his team.'' Phoenix's Grant Hill missed his second straight game because of inflammation in his right knee. Shannon Brown, who scored a career-high 32 points Tuesday night in a home loss to San Antonio while starting in Hill's place, had 10 points in his 300th NBA game and 20th career start. Los Angeles closed the third quarter with a 10-2 run to take a 74-64 lead. Phoenix got as close as 81-74 on Channing Frye's 18-footer, capping a 6-0 spurt while Griffin was taking a breather. But the Suns made only one field goal over the next 5:45. Griffin returned to the floor with 6:19 remaining, and the Clippers responded with a 13-5 run capped by his back-to-back dunks 28 seconds apart. The second one came off Griffin's steal of Nash's turnover and made it 96-70. ''Luckily, they missed a lot of shots - because they had a lot of great looks. But we were consistent with our effort,'' Paul said. ''We were up eight or nine at one point and it could have easily went to five or four. But we pushed it to 15 and put them away. The biggest difference is that we were getting stops. We got out in transition, and Blake's energy was contagious.'' *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Charlotte B. - Minnesota T. 83-88
Kevin Love (6'10''-C-88, college: UCLA) is playing so well this month he's beginning to garner MVP consideration. And rightfully so. Sure, the Minnesota Timberwolves might be on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff picture, but Love's numbers are getting harder and harder to ignore. Love had 40 points and 19 rebounds Wednesday night to lift the Minnesota Timberwolves to an 88-83 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats. It was Love's third-highest point total in March, and pushed his scoring average in 15 games in the month to 31.2. Love has scored at least 20 points in 14 of his last 15 games and has 44 double-doubles on the season, including nine straight games. Before the game, Bobcats coach Paul Silas said Love without question should be considered an MVP candidate and his opinion didn't change after he dominated his young big men Bismack Biyombo and Byron Mullens. 'If he continues to do what he's doing for a good portion of his career he's going to be one of the best ever,' Silas said. 'He's just tenacious. That ball goes up and he's there. And he's strong The young boys we have are not ready for that. So that makes it difficult.' As for all of the MVP talk, Love said, 'In some ways it's warranted, but we need to win a lot more games in order to be anywhere close to that.' Love said he feels like he's worked hard on his conditioning to get where he is and he's in a good groove when it comes to shooting the ball. 'I'm not stopping,' Love said. 'I'm continuing to get better.' Love got some needed help against the Bobcats. Point guard Luke Ridnour had a season-high 14 assists and added 15 points for Minnesota, fighting to get into playoff contention in the Western Conference. Forward Anthony Tolliver added his first double-double of the season as well, with 11 points and 11 rebounds. But Love was the key. The Timberwolves led 68-65 entering the fourth quarter when Love hit back-to-back 3-pointers to quickly push the lead to nine. A short while later, he faked a low post move to the middle and spun past Byron Mullens for an easy basket. Love scored 11 of Minnesota's first 13 points in the fourth quarter. Love, who lead the league in minutes played, played the entire second half and converted 14 of 31 field goals for the game, including 4 of 6 from 3-point range. 'The only one that could slow him down was Najera,' Silas said. 'They guy played 43 minutes and that's a lot of time. But they needed to win. They played him and he got the win for them.' 'He's just playing at a high level,' said Minnesota coach Rick Adelman. 'His concentration is at a high level. He's been spectacular. What else can you say?' The Bobcats trailed by nine late in the first quarter, but closed the half with a 20-9 run to take a 47-45 lead into the locker room after getting a big lift off the bench from rookie Kemba Walker and veteran Eduardo Najera. The Bobcats held Love without a point during that span. But there was no stopping Love in the second half as he scored 26 points. Love scored 14 points in the fourth quarter and the Timberwolves (25-27) led the entire second half to win a game they had to have. Love scored in almost every way imaginable, hitting from the outside, driving to the hole, making great low post moves and putting back missed shots by teammates. 'I think his activity is what sets him apart,' Adelman said. 'Luke missed that jumper down the stretch there and he followed it up, had the point guard on him and he got the offensive board and put it in. Those are just hustle plays. That's what he's been doing.' Silas said if Love continues to play like he has for the rest of his career that 'he's going to be one of the best ever.' 'You just don't see anybody in this league who can score the way he scores and rebound the way he rebounds,' Silas said. 'You have to keep an eye on him all of the time. When the ball goes up you have to find him.' Corey Maggette had 22 points, and Kemba Walker added 20 for the Bobcats (7-41), who remain the only NBA team with fewer than 10 wins this season. *Courtesy of http://ca.sports.yahoo.com

Cleveland C. - Detroit P. 75-87
Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) 's first season in the NBA has been unlike any in his life. He's mostly gotten used to the travel and the crammed schedule and physical play. One thing, though, has been hard to handle. Losing has hurt Cleveland's rookie. 'It's definitely a learning experience for me,' he said. Tayshaun Prince matched a season high with 29 points and rookie Brandon Knight added 16, leading the Detroit Pistons to an 87-75 win over Cleveland on Wednesday night, handing Irving and the Cavaliers their fifth straight loss and pushing them further from the playoff picture. Prince made all four 3-pointers and added eight rebounds for the Pistons, who closed with an 11-4 outburst after the Cavs closed within five. Irving scored 20 with nine rebounds and six assists for Cleveland, which has dropped eight of nine and fallen from contention for the final postseason spot in the Eastern Conference. The Cavs have gone 4-14 since beating Detroit on Feb. 21 to improve to 13-17. 'I'm still staying optimistic,' said Irving, the league's presumptive rookie of the year who couldn't remember being on a losing team before. 'We still want to surprise people.' Irving tried to bring the Cavs back in the fourth quarter and his jumper made it 76-71 with 4:08 left. But Knight hit a 3-pointer, Jason Maxiell grabbed a rebound and dunked and Prince backed Alonzo Gee down in the lane before dropping a short hook. Greg Monroe added 10 rebounds for the Pistons, who scored more than 80 points for the first time in four games. Pistons starting guard Rodney Stuckey injured his left hamstring in the first quarter and did not return. Prince is one of the few holdovers from the days when the Pistons and Cavaliers were among the NBA's best teams and battled for Eastern supremacy with epic playoff games. The slender 6-foot-9 forward played with confidence and as if it was 2007 again as Detroit beat Cleveland for the first time in three tries this season. Prince made three 3-pointers and scored 13 points in the second quarter, when the Pistons outscored the Cavaliers 28-21 to take a five-point halftime lead. 'He looked like he did five or six years ago,' Cavs coach Byron Scott said of Prince. 'He really won the game for them.' It was a bounce-back performance against the Cavs for Prince, who went 2 for 15 against them on the Pistons' last visit to Cleveland. 'I've had some tough games here,' Prince said. 'I had some games where I've had 25 points and games where I had four points. There's never an in between. I've had some games where I struggled in this arena. It's a good thing I had a couple of layups early to get me rolling.' Prince's 3-pointer early in the third helped the Pistons begin to pull away, and Maxiell's jumper stretched Detroit's lead to 15. Irving, who has been in a recent scoring and shooting slump, finally scored for the first time since the first quarter and the Cavs closed the third with a 10-2 run to pull within seven points. Early in the fourth, Cleveland's Omri Casspi somehow flipped in a shot while falling backward in the lane to make it 72-67, giving the Cavs some life. But Prince responded, knocking down a 12-foot jumper and then ended a scoreless drought of nearly three minutes for the Pistons with a floater to make it 76-67. Irving, who has been so strong in the fourth all season, scored four quick points, but Knight's 3 from the left wing was the dagger Detroit needed. 'It was a collective effort,' Pistons coach Lawrence Frank said. 'Guys stepped up with us being short-handed. Everyone who played contributed to the win.' *COurtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

New Jersey N. - Indiana P. 100-84
Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) had 30 points and nine assists and injury-ravaged New Jersey beat the Indiana Pacers 100-84 Wednesday night in a game the Nets finished with eight healthy players. Rookie MarShon Brooks added 17 points and Gerald Green had 14 as the woeful Nets won for the second time in eight games and handed the Pacers their second loss in six. The 16-point margin of victory was the largest of the season for New Jersey (17-35). The Nets started the game with only 10 healthy players and lost starting center Shelden Williams with an injury to his right eye in the second quarter and backup center Jordan Williams with concussion-type symptoms in the third. Paul George had 22 points to lead Indiana. The Nets, who have been notorious for giving away games in the fourth quarter, instead expanded their lead in the final 12 minutes, turning a two-point lead into a 21-point advantage. Deron Williams had 13 points in the fourth quarter and the Nets hit 9 of their first 14 shots in the period. Gerald Wallace opened it by putting in a rebound to ignite an eight-point run. Brooks hit a 10-footer after a Pacers' turnover and Deron Williams hit two jumpers to help New Jersey snap a 10-game losing streak against the Pacers, including three this season. George scored 10 points in the third quarter but, for a change, the Nets would not be denied. Deron Williams hit a jumper and a 3-pointer and set up a layup by Wallace and 3-pointer by Green in sparking a 12-6 run at the end of the first half that gave New Jersey a 49-43 lead. Kris Humphries added 12 points and eight rebounds for New Jersey. Pacers leading scorer Danny Granger was limited to five points before fouling out. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com


NBA Awards- 3rd Quarter Edition - by Miguel Rivera

As of last night, most teams have played between 47 and 51 games, putting the league at about 75% completion in this lockout-shortened season. With that said, heres a look at the candidates for end of the season awards.


Rookie of the Year:
LEADER: Kyrie Irving (CLE)- 18.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.6 APG, 47% FG, 40% 3FG. Irving has been sensational this season. After only playing 11 collegiate games, Irving has given Cavs fans hope. Throughout the first half of the season, Irving had the Cavs in playoff contention before sliding as of late. Irving should be an All-Star as soon as next year, and will be thrust into the best point guard in the league discussion very soon.
NEXT IN LINE: This race stopped being close when Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90) went down. But someone has to be 2nd and 3rd in voting, so Rubio and Kenneth Faried (6'8''-F-89, college: Morehead St.) would be the guys.



Sixth Man of the Year:
LEADER: James Harden (OKC)- 17.2 PPG, 49% FG%, 38% 3FG%. Harden is having an All-Star quality year, and the fact that he comes off the bench probably is the reason why he didnt make the squad. He plays starter minutes and is the most consistent player on the team not named Durant.
NEXT IN LINE: Louis Williams (PHI), Mo Williams (LAC), Al Harrington (DEN), Jason Terry (DAL)

Defensive Player of the Year:
LEADER: Dwight Howard (ORL)- 14.7 RPG, 2.2 BPG, 1.5 SPG. Dwight Howard is still the most dominant defensive player in the league. Period.
NEXT IN LINE: LeBron James (MIA), Serge Ibaka (OKC), Chris Paul (LAC)



Most Improved Player:
LEADER: Jeremy Lin (NYK)- 14.6 PPG, 6.1 APG, 1.6 SPG. Linsanity has calmed down a bit in the past month, but that doesnt change how much this kid has improved, not only himself, but his team. Lin gives the Knicks stability on the court and something for the fans at the Garden to cheer about. From being seldom-used by the Warriors last year, Lin has now established himself as a legitimate NBA player.
NEXT IN LINE: DeMarcus Cousins (SAC), Greg Monroe (DET), Ryan Anderson (ORL), Paul George (IND)

Coach of the Year:
LEADER: Tom Thibodeau (CHI)- 40-11, 1st in NBA. No coach has ever won back-to-back COY awards, but theres a first time for everything. Thibs has become the fastest to 100 wins in NBA history, needing only 130 games. For being a defensive coach, he has turned the Bulls into a top 5 offensive efficient team in the league. Hes also atop the NBA standing while playing 17 games without MVP Derrick Rose, and only having offseason acquisition Rip Hamilton for 16 games. He prepares his team to play every night better than anyone else roaming the sidelines.
NEXT IN LINE: Gregg Popovich (SAS), Stan Van Gundy (ORL), Frank Vogel (IND)



Most Valuable Player:
LEADER: Kevin Durant (OKC)- 27.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 50% FG%, 38% 3FG%. Durant is having the best overall season of his young career. Hes leading his team in scoring and rebounding, and has them atop the Western Conference standings. Yes, he has another All-Star in Westbrook, but at times thats been to the teams detriment. Durant is what makes this team go. Theyve adopted his personality and work ethic, and are where they are because of Durantula. He also has one of the best nicknames in the game.
NEXT IN LINE: Kobe Bryant (LAL), LeBron James (MIA), Kevin Love (MIN), Tony Parker (SAS)


Tuesday's games review (7): Mavericks finally overcome Rockets for 90-81 win - by Eurobasket News

Portland TB - Oklah.City T. 95-109
Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) had 32 points and eight assists, Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 25 points and the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder won their fourth straight with a 109-95 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night. James Harden added 21 points off the bench for the Thunder, who built a 65-47 lead by halftime and led by as many as 20 points. LaMarcus Aldridge had 20 points and eight rebounds as Portland fell to 3-4 under Kaleb Canales, who took over as interim coach when the Blazers fired Nate McMillan at the NBA trade deadline. The Blazers were coming off a 90-87 victory over Golden State on Sunday. Portland has not had back-to-back wins since Jan. 23-24 against Sacramento and Memphis. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Golde State W. - LA Lakers 101-104
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) took the ball in the post, and there was no chance it was leaving his hands. He stepped back from a pair of defenders and drilled a fadeaway shot in the final moments. Twice. As if there was any doubt, Bryant made it clear: He's back to being the closer. Two days after getting benched late in a home loss to Memphis, Bryant made a pair of jumpers in the final 64 seconds, finishing with 30 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers past the undermanned Golden State Warriors, 104-101 on Tuesday night. Suddenly, all is right again in Lakerland. 'Why is everybody acting like we're in eighth place?' Bryant said. 'You guys were kissing the Clippers' (butts) at the start of the season, and now we're in the third seed and everybody's acting like we (stink). I don't understand it.' Bryant sealed Los Angeles' latest victory in furious fashion. He missed his first two shots in the final quarter before twice rising over a pair of defenders for difficult fall-away jumpers from the corner. The first tied the game and the second put the Lakers ahead by two - and for good - with 32 seconds remaining, giving Los Angeles its third win in four games and putting to rest any doubt about his role in coach Mike Brown's offense. 'That's what guys like Kobe can do,' Brown said. 'When you have a special player like that, you put the ball in his hands and ask him to go make a play.' Former Warriors forward Matt Barnes had 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Pau Gasol added 19 points and 17 rebounds to give Los Angeles its third win in four games. While Brown and Bryant never made a big deal about the benching, a similar situation is started to brew. Center Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services), who took a 3-pointer with plenty of time remaining on the shot clock in the third quarter, sat for the game's final 9:10 - and the two sides are suddenly at odds. 'I don't know what was bench-worthy about the shot to be honest with you,' said Bynum, who had 11 points and five rebounds. 'I made one (in Sunday's game). I wanted to make another one. That's it. He took offense to it, so he put me on the bench.' Just another day for the Lakers. David Lee had 23 points and nine rebounds, and rookie Klay Thompson scored 20 points for the Warriors, who overcame a 16-point, first-half deficit only to lose for the seventh time in nine games. Missing three injured starters, Golden State still had to feel good about its effort, tying a franchise low with only five turnovers. Warriors coach Mark Jackson said he checked his phone at halftime and noticed a text message from former Indiana Pacers teammate Reggie Miller that read, 'What the heck is that lineup?' 'When you look at the starting lineup, if I was a betting man, it'd be safe to say the Lakers would drill us,' Jackson said. 'The bottom line is, at the end of the day, I've got a bunch of guys that compete, that get after it, that work extremely hard, that have tremendous character and pride and gave ourselves a chance.' As usual, it wasn't as good as Bryant's finish. As Los Angeles attempted to make a final push in Sunday's 102-96 loss to the Grizzlies, Bryant sat on the bench for nearly four minutes, a rare occurrence for one of the NBA's most dangerous closers. Bryant didn't appear to agree with the move in the locker room after the game but said he supports Brown's decision. Bryant sat out the first 5:21 of the fourth quarter against Golden State, and the home team closed the gap during that time. Brandon Rush brought the Warriors within a basket three times - on a dunk, three-point play and a 3-pointer - and Lee's 17-footer trimmed Los Angeles' lead to 91-90 with Bryant back. The Warriors went ahead 97-95 on Lee's hook shot before Bryant did what he does best: seal wins. The Lakers leader took the ball in the post and, as Rush and Thompson swarmed, drifted to the corner and floated a tying shot. Thompson had his layup blocked off his leg and out of bounds by Metta World Peace, setting the stage for another Bryant highlight. Los Angeles ran the same play again and Bryant delivered, hitting a 19-footer to lift Los Angeles ahead. Rush missed a running layup on the other end, and the Lakers cruised to victory the rest of the way on free throws. Bryant finished 9 for 24 and added five assists and five rebounds. Most of all, he made sure the Lakers avoided a stunning upset. Golden State had almost as many players on the injury report as the starting lineup. Point guard Stephen Curry (sprained right ankle) missed his ninth straight game and, along with new big man Andrew Bogut (fractured left ankle), is unlikely to play again this season. Andris Biedrins (strained right groin) also wasn't in uniform and Nate Robinson (strained right hamstring) sat out. The wounded Warriors somehow managed to give the Lakers some competition behind their youngsters. Three rookies - Thompson, Charles Jenkins and Jeremy Tyler - started, finding ways to keep Golden State close. Los Angeles led 55-48 at halftime and 79-72 entering the fourth, giving themselves a chance at the end - until Bryant took over. 'We had two hands in his face and he still hit two shots,' said Warriors forward Dominic McGuire, who guarded Bryant most of the game. 'That's Kobe.' *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Milwaukee B. - Atlanta H. 108-101
Monta Ellis (6'4''-G-85) scored 33 points, including 17 in the fourth quarter, as the Milwaukee Bucks held off the Atlanta Hawks 108-101 on Tuesday night. Brandon Jennings added 18 points for the Bucks, who moved to within two games of the idle New York Knicks for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Ellis, who has struggled since coming over in a trade from Golden State on March 14, tied a season low with four points against the Knicks on Monday. On Tuesday, he made 15-of-24 shots, including 7-of-9 in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory with a 15-foot jumper with 1:27 remaining. He added eight assists. Josh Smith led the Hawks with 30 points and 18 rebounds. Joe Johnson (6'7''-G-81, college: Arkansas) finished with 11 points on 4-of-13 shooting. The Hawks had 22 turnovers. The Bucks were without two key players, forwards Ersan Ilyasova (back spasms) and Carlos Delfino (right groin injury). Coach Scott Skiles called both 'day to day' before the game. The Bucks led 55-46 at halftime, but the Hawks used a 20-6 run over the last 6:58 of the third to take a 79-78 lead. The Hawks made 12-of-17 shots in the period. The Bucks missed their last five shots of the quarter. Atlanta, which had been seeking their season-high fifth consecutive win, went up 81-78 with a basket to open the fourth, but Ellis had a steal and a break-away dunk, two jump shots and a free throw in the first five minutes of the period to put Milwaukee up 89-85. The score was tied at 91 when Mike Dunleavy hit a 3 with 4:31 remaining. The Bucks never trailed again, as Ellis followed with a layup and jumper to make it 98-91. Rookie Ivan Johnson had a career-high 17 points for Atlanta. The Bucks' last seven wins had come against teams with a losing record, and they had not beaten a team above .500 since March 5. It was the fifth game in six nights for the Bucks, who were coming off an 89-80 defeat to the depleted Knicks. The Hawks were coming off a 139-133 four-overtime victory over Utah on Sunday. Joe Johnson left Tuesday's game less than three minutes in and received two stitches in his lip, the team said. He returned at the 8:59 mark of the second. The Bucks led by as many as 17 in the first half and 55-46 at halftime. Smith scored 13 points in the second quarter, and Johnson had just two points in the half on 1-of-5 shooting. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Dallas M. - Houston R. 90-81
Jason Terry (6'2''-PG-77, college: Arizona) scored seven consecutive points in a minute to start a game-turning run for the Dallas Mavericks, who went on to a 90-81 victory over the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. Dirk Nowitzki (7'0''-F-78) had 21 points despite a bad shooting night (5 of 17) for the Mavericks, who have won consecutive games against Houston. Rodrigue Beaubois had 14 points and Brandan Wright 13. The Mavericks won 101-99 in overtime on Saturday night in Houston, which played at home again Monday and needed overtime to beat Sacramento. Luis Scola had 22 points and eight rebounds for the Rockets, while Goran Dragic scored 17 points. Chandler Parsons had 15 points and nine rebounds. *Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Memphis G. - Minnesota T. 93-86
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) scored 21 points, Dante Cunningham added season highs of 13 points and 14 rebounds, and the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 93-86 on Tuesday night. Cunningham, inserted into the starting lineup after All-Star center Marc Gasol sat out with a sprained right ankle, was 6 of 9 from the field as all five Memphis starters finished in double figures. Marreese Speights had 18 points for Memphis, Tony Allen finished with 13, and Mike Conley had 12 points and eight assists as the Grizzlies won their second straight. Kevin Love led Minnesota with 28 points and 11 rebounds, while Wayne Ellington scored 15 points, shooting 6 of 10. Derrick Williams added 14 points for the Timberwolves, who have lost six of eight. The Grizzlies pulled away the game in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Timberwolves 25-19 and missing only one of six free throws in the final minute. Memphis shot 43 percent from the floor and missed all 11 3-point attempts, but overcame that by holding Minnesota to 39 percent overall and 31 percent from 3-point range. Memphis led 44-41 at the break behind 12 points from Gay. Love had 11 for Minnesota in a half where both teams committed nine turnovers. The Grizzlies opened a 44-36 lead on a short jumper by Conley, but the Timberwolves scored the last five points of the first half. Conley had headed to the locker room before those final Wolves points, injuring his ankle after hitting the jumper with 1:35 left in the half. Conley returned to start the second half, but Minnesota came out firing. The Timberwolves used a 20-6 rally to erase the Memphis lead and take their biggest lead of the night at that point, 63-55. Memphis answered by closing the third quarter with a 13-4 run to retake the lead at 68-67. The Grizzlies extended the lead to as many as 11 in the final period before the Wolves rallied again. Three-pointers by Love and Ellington pulled them within 88-83 with 1:34 left, but they couldn't get any closer. *Courtesy of The Associated Press

Phoenix Suns - San Antonio S. 100-107
Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored eight points in a 10-0 San Antonio run early in the fourth quarter, and the Spurs went on to win their fifth in a row and eighth in nine games with a 107-100 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. Tim Duncan scored 17 of his 26 points in the first half and grabbed 11 rebounds for the Spurs, winners of 12 of their last 14 road games. Parker scored half of his 24 in the fourth quarter. Kawhi Leonard added 14, Manu Ginobili 13 and Matt Bonner 10 for San Antonio. Shannon Brown, starting because Grant Hill was a late scratch with right knee inflammation, scored a career-high 32 for Phoenix. Marcin Gortat added 21 points and 14 rebounds in just the second home loss for the Suns in 10 games since the All-Star break. Steve Nash had 16 points and eight assists. Brown, who signed with the Suns as a free agent before the season, matched his career best with five 3-pointers, in 10 tries. Phoenix shot 51.5 percent through three quarters but made just 33 percent (7 of 21) in the fourth. The Spurs led by as many as nine in the first half and were up 62-57 at the break behind Duncan's 17 points and eight rebounds. Duncan was 8 of 9 from the field. Phoenix started the second half with a 12-2 run to go up 69-64 on Gortat's 6-footer. Brown's fifth and final 3-pointer of the night put the Suns ahead 79-74 with 4:50 left in the third quarter, but San Antonio scored the next six, the last four by Ginobili, to take an 80-79 lead. The Spurs were up 84-83 entering the fourth. After Robin Lopez's reverse layup cut San Antonio's lead to 88-87 with 10:08 to play, Parker started the decisive run with a layup on a pass from Ginobili. Parker followed with a 13-footer, then made a 20-footer. Boris Diaw sank a 20-footer, then Parker capped the outburst with a 10-foot jumper after Phoenix's second straight turnover, and the Spurs led 98-87 with 5:59 to go. Nash's 18-footer cut it to 98-89, but Leonard made a 3 from the corner to put San Antonio ahead 101-89 with 5:29 to go. Brown was fouled by Leonard on a 3-point attempt and made all three from the line to slice the lead to 103-94 with 3:15 to go, then Jared Dudley's tip-in, his lone basket of the night, cut it to 103-96 with 1:22 to play. Brown's driving layup made it 103-98 but with just 33.9 seconds left, Phoenix ran out of time. Parker sealed the victory with four straight from the foul line. *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Philadelph.76 - Cleveland C. 103-85
Jodie Meeks (6'4''-G-87, college: Kentucky) scored a career-high 31 points and Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA) had 19 to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 103-85 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Evan Turner scored 12 points for the Sixers, who moved a half-game ahead of Boston and back into sole possession of first place in the Atlantic Division. The Sixers have held the top spot in the Atlantic for all but a few days early in the season. The Sixers romped without forward Andre Iguodala, who missed his second straight game because of left patella tendinitis. Meeks started in his place and made the most of his opportunity, making 7 of 10 3-pointers. Anthony Parker scored 14 points and Kyrie Irving had 12 for the Cavaliers, who dropped their fourth straight. The Sixers were one of the early season surprises in the NBA when they rolled to a 20-9 start. But a tougher schedule, various injuries to center Spencer Hawes, and trying to win big without a superstar caught up with the Sixers and they hit a rough patch. The Sixers have gone 8-14 since that start but never lost their grip on first - or fourth place in the East. Had the Sixers lost to Cleveland, they would have tumbled to seventh in the conference standings. Even without Iguodala, their top perimeter defender, the outcome was never in doubt Tuesday. The Cavs scored the game's first five points before Meeks got hot from 3-point range and led the Sixers on a 12-0 run. He scored 12 points in the first quarter, Holiday took over in the second (4 of 6, eight points), and the Sixers led 57-43 at halftime. Meeks started the first 38 games of the season before coach Doug Collins benched him with the Sixers in a 2-8 funk. Meeks had started 102 straight games when Collins decided to give Turner, the 2010 No. 2 overall draft pick, a turn in the backcourt. Meeks was scuffling from 3-point range at the time of his benching, but he had that long-range stroke going against the Cavs. Meeks' sixth 3-pointer topped his previous career best of 26 points and stretched the lead to 96-78. With Meeks leading the way, the Sixers made 10 of 19 3-pointers. The Cavaliers had another uninspired effort in another season headed toward the draft lottery. After the Cavs were flat in a loss to Phoenix on Sunday, coach Byron Scott ran them harder in practice on Monday than he had since training camp. It didn't matter, not with the way Meeks was torching them from outside. *Courtesy of www.ajc.com


Jerryd Bayless out for the year with torn oblique muscle - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors announced Tuesday that guard Jerryd Bayless (6'3''-PG-88, college: Arizona) will miss the remainder of the season with a torn oblique muscle.

Bayless had just gotten back from a hip injury and had really come on, averaging 14 points and 5 assists on 53 percent shooting in his past ten games.

The Raptors losing Bayless for this last month is complicated. Bayless will be a restricted free agent this summer. As the Raptors keep moving forward with their rebuilding project, they need to know if Bayles is a player they want to contribute for the future.

For Bayless it's yet another bad break in a career marred by them.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Warriors say Stephen Curry could return in two weeks - by Eurobasket News

Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (6'3''-PG-88, college: Davidson) got the good news he had hoped to receive: He's not officially shut down for the season. Yet.

The team announced Wednesday that Curry might return in as little as two weeks. Curry will undergo two more weeks of rehabilitation and then be re-evaluated. At that point, if he's cleared, he would return to action.

But he'd have to be 100 percent -- which might be a long shot considering his ankle history.

'We will basically shut him down for two weeks, re-evaluate him after that and make a decision going forward,' Warriors coach Mark Jackson said. 'We will give it this two-week window and move from there.'

Perhaps even Curry couldn't have saved the Warriors on Wednesday in a 102-87 loss to visiting New Orleans.

On the heels of pushing the Los Angeles Lakers to the brink, the Warriors were manhandled by the Hornets, owners of the worst record in the Western Conference.

Golden State's defense was downright porous. New Orleans is the second-lowest-scoring team in the league. But the Warriors allowed the Hornets to shoot 54.4 percent, the season high for an opponent.

David Lee filled the stat sheet: 28 points, five assists, seven rebounds and two blocks. But New Orleans had three players who scored at least 20 points, led by former Warrior Marco Belinelli's 22.

'There's a way to lose, believe it or not,' Jackson said. 'And playing in this league, I understand that. I know you're not going to win every game. But certainly, tonight wasn't the way to lose. I understand back-to-back nights, I understand a battle last night ... against the Lakers, tough loss. But where we're headed, teams respond by taking care of their business and taking out that tough loss on a team that we're better than.'

Curry missed his 11th straight game because of the latest sprained right ankle, which he suffered March 10 against Dallas. Curry has missed 22 games this season. Based on the timetable given, Curry will miss at least the next seven games.

If Curry's evaluation -- which will include tests and scans -- goes well, he could return for the April 11 game at Portland or the April 12 home game against Dallas.

Why return? Curry has multiple reasons. Primarily, he can't stand sitting out.

'No one can ever question or would ever question how much he wants to be out there,' Lee said. 'If he can play, he's going to play.'

Curry said he wants to play as much as he can to work on his game and build some positive momentum going into next season. He also has a financial incentive. He's due a contract extension this offseason. Proving his ankle is healthy would favor him in contract negotiations.

According to one team source, Golden State does want Curry to play this season provided he's healthy. Warriors management is resigned to finishing outside of the top seven draft spots, so sitting Curry to help keep their pick is a reach. (Golden State will keep its first-round selection if it winds up with one of the top seven picks.)

The source said the Warriors would rather Curry play to help his confidence and to give the fans a treat. But that's provided Curry is cleared.

All of the doctors involved are convinced they can fix Curry's ankle, and it isn't in any serious danger. That's why his playing is still a consideration.

Golden State sent Curry to ankle specialist Richard Ferkle in the Los Angeles area Thursday for a second opinion. The results from Ferkle's examination came in Tuesday, and his recommendation did not include shutting Curry down for the season.

Armed with Ferkle's analysis and the input of orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tim McAdams and the Warriors medical staff, the resulting plan was for Curry to do a bit more rehab and test the ankle in two weeks.

Warriors forward Dominic McGuire, an unrestricted free agent at season's end, had zero hesitation when asked if he wanted to come back to Golden State next season.

'Without a doubt,' McGuire said. 'No question about it. I would like to be back here. Hopefully I found a home. We'll see what happens.'

The Warriors appear to feel the same way. General manager Larry Riley said Golden State would like to sign McGuire this offseason. Jackson went further, saying he's shocked the Warriors even had a chance to sign McGuire in December.

'Anybody that wants to win and wants to develop a culture of winning -- the phone should have been busy every time you tried to call,' Jackson said. 'This guy has played every position for us offensively. He's defended every great player we've faced -- whether it was playing 20 minutes, 30 minutes or just 10 seconds at the end of the game.'

It was Riley whose call got answered. He signed McGuire to a non-guaranteed, one-year deal for just over $900,000.

After Reggie Williams and Shawne Williams elected to sign elsewhere -- and knowing it couldn't afford the likes of Andrei Kirilenko or Josh Howard -- Golden State settled on McGuire.

The fifth-year forward -- who is 6-foot-9, 220 pounds -- has proved to be a gem of a find. Since early on, he has established himself as the Warriors' best perimeter defender. Plus, his tenacity and toughness have had a noticeable impact on the locker room.

He's won over his teammates with his grit and swagger, and his jokes.

With Ekpe Udoh traded to Milwaukee and center Andris Biedrins hurt, McGuire has been forced to play power forward and even some center. That has left him banging with opposing bigs.

Lately, McGuire has unveiled more of his game. With Curry and Nate Robinson out of action recently, McGuire has played some point forward and has proved to be one of the Warriors' better facilitators.

'He's a winner. He's an absolute winner,' Jackson said. 'We are fortunate to have him, and hopefully we can keep him around.'

Robinson was back in the starting lineup. He missed the previous two games because of a strained right hamstring.

Courtesy of www.mercurynews.com


Report: Kobe will push to bring Fisher, Odom back to Lakers - by Eurobasket News

There is a reason players - even elite players - should not get to play general manager, too.

With that thought in mind we bring you this news on the eve of Derek Fisher (6'1''-PG-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR) making his return to Los Angeles as a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder - Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) wants him back. And Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) too, according to Scott Howard-Cooper at NBA.com.

Kobe Bryant is planning a hard push to recruit Derek Fisher and Lamar Odom back to the Lakers as free agents in the summer, a source familiar with Bryant's thinking told NBA.com as Fisher prepares to return to Staples Center as a member of the Thunder.

Whether either would be receptive is unclear Fisher and Odom loved their seasons in Los Angeles, but were hurt to be traded within the last 3 months. It is known, however, that Bryant plans to use his close friendship with both to convince them that a reunion is in everyones best interest, bruised egos and all.
Does he want to bring the triangle offense back, too? Wait, dont ask him that.

Kobe is being loyal to guys he knows helped get him rings, guys he trusted. But these are bad ideas. And besides, we dont know if either of these guys wants to come back or if Lakers management would welcome them back.

In the case of Derek Fisher theres nothing left in the tank. There is a reason the Lakers had to get Ramon Sessions. Fishers legacy as a Laker is intact, but there should be no future. He is a bad fit for this system at the PG spot (he had a PER under 10 for three seasons), and is shooting 32.8 percent since being traded to the Thunder. He will be 38 next season and is a defensive liability. Its just time to move on.

Odom may have some good basketball left in him, but he is a sensitive player who asked to be moved from the Lakers when they tried to trade him in the Chris Paul deal before the season. Now hes going to come back? Then there is the money - we can expect Dallas will buy out the last year of Odoms $8.2 million deal (a $2.4 million buyout) and he will be a free agent. However, the Lakers already have more than $80 million on the books for next season (Ill assume they will pick up Andrew Bynums option). They cant offer him much, and since every dollar they offer him gets doubled due to the luxury tax they dont want to. Basically, the Lakers can only lowball him, which he would find insulting from a team that tried to trade him.

The Lakers front office is smart - look for them to go through the motions on guys like this to keep Kobe happy. But neither deal makes any sense for the team going forward (unless Odom is willing to play for peanuts).

Courtesy of http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com


Nets' Farmar out with groin injury - by Eurobasket News

Add Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) to the ever-growing list of casualties for the Nets this season.

Farmar, who has dealt with groin injuries all season long, was ruled out for at least the next 10 days before last nights 105-84 loss to the Jazz at Prudential Center.

Injuries are part of the game, Farmar said after the game. Ive just got to understand that it happens, and youve got to get healthy. Health is first and foremost. Ive got a long career ahead of me - Im only 25 - and I just want to get it right.

It was such a nothing-type, minor injury when it first happened that I took it for granted, he said. I felt Id be OK in a day, but then it got worse. I sat out a week, and I thought it was OK, because its OK when Im walking around and stuff, but once I get out there and do one thing, it jumps back to square one.

After meeting with specialists, Farmar said hes expecting to sit out for at least the next two-to-three weeks. With only a month remaining in the season, that leaves his chances of playing again for the Nets this season in serious jeopardy.

Im not sure how its gonna work out, Farmar said. When Im 100 percent, Ill play. If its this season, then Ill be out there. If not, itd be unfortunate, but Id have to look forward.

If Farmar doesnt play again this season, he could have played his last game in a Nets uniform. He has a player option for next season.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Raptors sign guard Ben Uzoh to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors have signed guard Ben Uzoh (6'3''-PG-88, college: Tulsa) to a 10-day contract.

He joined the team Tuesday a day after guard Jerryd Bayless aggravated a hip injury during a loss to Orlando. The left hip pointer had kept him out of the previous two games.

Uzoh had been in the NBA D-League. The 6-foot-3 player from the University of Tulsa averaged 14.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 20 games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

This is Uzohs second stint in the NBA this season. He signed a 10-day contract with Cleveland on Feb. 10. He spent last season with New Jersey after signing as a free agent. He averaged 3.8 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 42 games.

The Raptors (16-34) host Denver on Wednesday night.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Cavs Gibson likely out for year - by Eurobasket News

A torn tendon in Daniel Gibson's (6'3''-PG-86, college: Texas) left foot will likely sideline the Cavaliers guard for the rest of the season. Team officials announced the injury Tuesday.

Gibson injured his ankle March 19 in a game at New Jersey. Initial X-rays were negative, but according to a release from the team, He received treatment during the remainder of the Cavaliers road trip to Atlanta and Orlando. After returning to Cleveland, his ankle had not progressed as expected.

Gibson then had another MRI, which revealed a torn tendon in his left foot and ankle, according to the Cavs.

Gibson, 26, is in his sixth pro season, all in Cleveland. He also missed time earlier this season with a mysterious neck infection. He is averaging 7.5 points in 35 games this year.

The Cavs own a team option on Gibsons contract (around $4.8 million) this summer.

Courtesy of http://fanmonster.com


Former NBA star Dennis Rodman says he's broke - by Eurobasket News

Dennis Rodman (6'9''-F-61, college: SE Oklahoma) can't afford to pay more than $800,000 in back child support because he's dead ass broke -- this according to new court documents.

Dennis' ex-wife Michelle Rodman filed new papers this month, claiming The Worm owes $808,935 in unpaid child support for his 9- and 10-year-old children -- and an additional $51,441 in unpaid spousal support.

But Dennis' attorney responded to the filing, insisting there's no way the Chicago Bulls legend can pay those bills -- because 'Respondent Dennis Rodman is broke and cannot afford any additional fees.'

According to his lawyer, Dennis is also 'extremely sick' and just isn't making the same bank he made back in his heyday. The lawyer does not specify the nature of Rodman's illness.

According to Dennis' lawyer, the giant child support figure is based on an order Michelle obtained a while ago behind his back -- requiring Rodman to pay $50,000 a month in child support ... an order Dennis has been fighting since 2010.

Dennis' lawyer insists the monthly amount is 'unjustified' because it isn't based on Dennis' actual income ... it's based on ludicrous estimates made by Michelle's attorney.

51-year-old Rodman is due in court today for a contempt hearing -- stemming from the child support bill -- and he could be sentenced to 20 days in jail for failure to make payments.

Courtesy of www.tmz.com


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


NetScous Basketball Men's All-American Teams - by Carl Berman

First Team

Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93) (Kentucky) 610, Fr., forward, 14.2 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 4.6 bpg

Draymond Green (Michigan State) 67, Sr., forward, 16.2 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 3.8 apg

Doug McDermott (Creighton) 67, Soph., forward, 22.9 ppg, 8.2 rpg

Thomas Robinson (Kansas) 69, Jr., forward, 17.7 ppg, 11.9 rpg

Tyler Zeller (North Carolina), 70, Sr., center, 16.5 ppg, 9.7 rpg

Second Team

Isaiah Canaan (Murray State) 60, Jr., guard, 19.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 3.6 apg

Damian Lillard (Weber State) 63, Jr., guard, 24.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 4.0 apg

Jae Crowder (Marquette) 66, Sr., forward, 17.5 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 2.5 spg

Jared Sullinger (Ohio State) 69, Soph., center, 17.6 ppg, 9.1 rpg

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Kentucky) 67, Fr., forward, 11.8 ppg, 7.6 rpg

Third Team

Kevin Jones (West Virginia) 68, Sr., forward, 19.9 ppg, 10.9 rpg

Marcus Denmon (Missouri) 63, Sr., guard, 17.7 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.1 apg

Mike Scott (Virginia) 68, Sr., forward, 18.0 ppg, 8.3 rpg

Scott Machado (Iona) 61, Sr., guard, 13.6 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 9.9 apg

Kendall Marshall (North Carolina), 64, Soph., guard, 8.1 ppg, 9.8 apg

Honorable Mention

Harrison Barnes (North Carolina), Bradley Beal (Florida), Matthew Dellavedova (St. Marys), Moe Harkless (St. Johns), John Henson (North Carolina), Tu Holloway (Xavier), John Jenkins (Vanderbilt), Terrence Jones (Kentucky), Kris Joseph (Syracuse), Arnett Moultrie (Mississippi State), Mason Plumlee (Duke), Phil Pressey (Missouri), Austin Rivers (Duke), Tyshawn Taylor (Kansas), Dion Waiters (Syracuse), Royce White (Iowa State)

Carl Berman is a Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. Information on NetScouts Basketball can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.



Stanford reaches NIT final - by Eurobasket News

With his Stanford teammates struggling and the lead slipping away, Anthony Brown (6'6''-G/F-92) shot the ball with no hesitation.

Brown scored 13 of his season-high 18 points in the second half to lead the Cardinal to a 74-64 win over Massachusetts in an NIT semifinal Tuesday night.

'He had great looks and he (had) confidence and he made them,' Stanford coach Johnny Dawkins said. 'He really stepped up tonight and did it for us.'

Brown shot 7 of 12, while the rest of the team was a combined 17-of-53.

The Minutemen took their first lead since early in the game with just over 8 minutes left, but Brown hit a 3-pointer to push the Cardinal back on top, then later scored seven points during an 11-3 run that put Stanford in control.

'There was a change in momentum, and I just wanted to do whatever I could to help the team out,' the sophomore said.

Josh Owens (6'8''-F/C) had 15 points and matched a career high with 12 rebounds for the Cardinal, who outrebounded UMass 54-45.

'Josh was the man tonight,' Dawkins said. 'I think he controlled the paint.'

Third-seeded Stanford (25-11) will meet Minnesota or Washington in the championship game Thursday night at Madison Square Garden.

Brooklyn native Chaz Williams (5'9''-G-91) led fifth-seeded UMass (25-12) with 19 points. But he shot just 7 of 18 and had four turnovers with three assists.

'I came out and made some unforced errors early that I don't usually make,' he said.

Williams, who had averaged 22.7 points in the NIT, was saddled by foul trouble in the first half. He hobbled off the court with more than 12 minutes to go in the second because of a cramp in his right calf but returned shortly.

UMass was 5-of-22 on 3-pointers and 13-of-22 from the foul line.

Stanford leading scorer Chasson Randle (6'1''-G-93) picked up his fourth foul with 13 1/2 minutes left, and the Cardinal missed his defense on Williams.

Down by as many as 12 in the first half, UMass tied the score on an alley-oop from Williams to Maxie Esho with 8:35 to go in the game. After Josh Huestis scored inside to put Stanford back up, Freddie Riley hit a 3 for the Minutemen's only lead of the second half.

Courtesy of www.shreveporttimes.com


Hollis Thompson skipping senior year at Georgetown - by Eurobasket News

Georgetown forward Hollis Thompson (6'8''-F-91) plans to skip his senior year, hire an agent and enter the NBA draft.

Coach John Thompson III says in a statement Tuesday the Hoyas 'fully anticipated' the 6-foot-8 junior - who is not related to the coach - would leave school.

Hollis Thompson initially declared for the 2011 NBA draft, too, but never hired an agent and returned to school. He ranked second on Georgetown this season by averaging 12.8 points and third with 5.5 rebounds per game. He led the Big East by making 43 percent of his 3-point attempts and was an honorable mention all-conference pick.

His career rate of 44 percent on 3s is best in Georgetown history.

Georgetown (24-9) lost to North Carolina State in its second NCAA tournament game.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


NIT Semis: Andre Hollins helps lead Minnesota to OT win over Washington - by Eurobasket News

Still alive in late March, Minnesota finally is learning to win the close ones.

The short-handed Golden Gophers improved to 3-3 in overtime games this season, beating Washington 68-67 on Tuesday night in the NIT semifinals behind 20 points from freshman Andre Hollins (6'1''-G-92).

Hollins scored five of Minnesota's seven points in the extra period. With the shot clock winding down and the Gophers clinging to a one-point lead in the final minute, he banked in an off-balance shot to put Minnesota up 68-65.

'We had to gut it out in overtime,' Hollins said.

The sixth-seeded Golden Gophers (23-14) will face No. 3 seed Stanford in Thursday night's championship game at Madison Square Garden. The Cardinal beat Massachusetts 74-64 in the first semifinal.

The top-seeded Huskies (24-11), who trailed by 15 late in the first half, sent the game to overtime when C.J. Wilcox (6'5''-G) stole the ball in the backcourt and hit the tying layup with 16.3 seconds left.

Wilcox had a good look at a potential tying 3-pointer in the final seconds of overtime, but the ball bounced off the rim. Darnell Gant put back the miss to pull Washington within a point, but after Julian Welch missed two free throws with 3.5 seconds remaining, Abdul Gaddy's desperation shot from beyond midcourt fell well short.

'Any time you're fighting back, it's always tough,' Huskies coach Lorenzo Romar said. 'But in the second half, I thought we were a team.'

The Golden Gophers are making a long NIT run despite losing star forward Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) to a season-ending knee injury in their seventh game. Senior center Ralph Sampson III has missed the last six with a sprained right knee.

Minnesota dropped six straight late in the regular season, starting with an overtime loss to Wisconsin.

'We had a tough stretch toward the end of the regular season, but everybody stayed together and everybody is on the same page,' said Rodney Williams, who kept up his strong recent play with 18 points. 'Once we got that loss in the Big Ten tournament, we kind of just came together and said, 'If we get into a postseason tournament, we are going to play our hearts out.' And that's what we are doing now.'

Terrence Ross (6'6''-G) led the Huskies with 21 points.

Washington, which trailed by six with 91 seconds left in regulation, pulled within 59-57 on Ross' 3 with just under a minute to go, the closest the Huskies had been since midway through the first half.

Hollins let the shot clock run down before starting his drive, and Tony Wroten fouled him with 28.9 seconds remaining. The freshman guard, a 91.6 percent free throw shooter, drained both to put the Gophers up by four.

Gaddy made two free throws to pull Washington back within 61-59 with 22.8 seconds left. Instead of waiting to get fouled, Minnesota's Joe Coleman tried an extra pass, and Wilcox made him pay.

Hollins then missed a jumper and Wroten had a look at a long 3 that would have won it at the buzzer.

Minnesota turned the ball over 21 times in the game.

'Just a comedy of turnovers there,' coach Tubby Smith said.

Hollins' three-point play put Minnesota up 64-61 just over a minute into overtime.

Wroten, a freshman who is Washington's second-leading scorer at 16.2 points per game, has struggled during the NIT, and he had just nine points Tuesday.

The Huskies, who finished atop the Pac-12 standings, came into the NIT looking to prove they belonged in the NCAA tournament after they became the first team to win a regular-season title in one of the six power conferences and still miss the NCAAs.

Minnesota is looking for its third NIT crown after winning in 1993 and 1998. Stanford won the 1991 title.

'I'm just so proud of their perseverance, and their ability to overcome so many distractions,' Smith said of his team. 'Just amazing. ... It's one of the hardest-working groups of kids I've ever worked with.'

Courtesy of ESPN


South Carolina officially hires Martin for basketball coach - by Eurobasket News

South Carolina has hired Frank Martin (agency: KMG Sports Management ) to revitalize its basketball program.

School trustees approved a six-year contract worth more than $2 million a year on average Tuesday morning.

'You have to do your due diligence, and quite frankly, I think we got the right person in Frank Martin (agency: KMG Sports Management ),' South Carolina athletic director Eric Hyman said.

South Carolina football coach Steve Spurrier and two-time defending national championship baseball coach Ray Tanner came to Martin's introduction. Hyman hopes Martin can have the same winning impact on the basketball team.

Martin replaces Darrin Horn, who was fired two weeks ago after going 60-63 over four seasons.

The former Kansas State coach has reached four NCAA tournaments in his five seasons with the Wildcats and will take over a team that finished dead last in the Southeastern Conference last season. The Gamecocks have been to the NCAA tournament just once since 1998. They finished this season 10-21 and 2-14 in the SEC.

Martin will make $1.9 million next season, $2 million the year after that and $2.1 million the remaining years of the contract.

The son of Cuban immigrants, Martin coached high school basketball in Miami for 15 years and was an assistant at Northeastern for four seasons before Bob Huggins added him to his staff at Cincinnati. Martin credits Huggins with jumpstarting his career, saying the current coach at West Virginia helped him get into college coaching.

South Carolina will be a rebuilding job.

The team's record got progressively worse during Horn's four years. Their top player, point guard and two-sport high school star Bruce Ellington, originally promised to only play basketball next season, but after Horn was fired, he started hanging around the football field during spring practice.

Several other players could consider transfers as Martin's intense coaching style is a stark contrast from the laidback approach favored by Horn, who is owed a $2.4 million buyout.

Courtesy of www.chron.com


Memphis' Pastner gets 1-year contract extension - by Eurobasket News

The University of Memphis has extended the contract of basketball coach Josh Pastner by one year, carrying him through the 2017 season.

Financial terms were not released Tuesday when the school announced the extension.

Pastner's team went 26-9 this past season, won its second straight Conference USA tourney title and played in the NCAA West Regional, losing in the second round to St. Louis.

The Tigers are 75-29 in his three seasons as head coach.

Meanwhile, the school announced that women's coach Melissa McFerrin also received a one-year contract extension.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


*****************************************************
  PBL   


Drive first round playoff schedule set - by Eurobasket News

The Central Division Champion Central Illinois Drive, presented by Sonic, will play the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Steamers in the opening round of the 2012 PBL playoffs.

According to the PBL the Drive clinched the top seed overall this past week and teams will play cross-divisional series in the opening round. The Drive are 18-1 on the season.


The round 1 schedule is as follows:

Game 1: 4/5/12 - Central Illinois Drive at Scranton Wilkes-Barre Steamers - 6:05 pm CDT

Game 2: 4/7/12 - Scranton Wilkes-Barre Steamers at Central Illinois Drive - 7:05 pm CDT

*Game 3: 4/9/12 - Scranton Wilkes-Barre Steamers at Central Illinois Drive - 7:05 pm CDT

(*if necessary)

The Steamers are 8-10 on the season.

They have already clinched the second seed in the Eastern Division behind Rochester. So far they are 5-5 at home and 3-5 on the road. Their leading scorer is a 6'1 guard named Vincent Simpson. Simpson averages 20.39 points per game (367 total points on the season). Simpson also leads the team with 40 three-point shots.

On the other side of the bracket the Rochester RazorSharks (17-1) will play the Sauk Valley Predators (13-6). The two will play at Sauk Valley on March 6 and then play games two and possible three at Rochester on March 7 and 9. The winner of the series will play the Drive or Steamers for the PBL Championship.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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


Nick Fazekas joins San Miguel Beermen - by Eurobasket News

Nick Fazekas (211-F-85, college: Nevada) is back to Philippines. The 26-year-old American announced on Twitter that he has signed with the San Miguel Beermen. Fazekas was recently released by the Petron Blaze Boosters. He appeared 7 times for the club averaging impressive 30.6 points and 18.4 rebounds. Nick Fazekas started the season in NBA D-League. He was a member of the Reno Bighorns, where he also played in 2010/11. For 6 games this season Fazekas registered 18.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg. Last season he had 14.6 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 12 games. Fazekas played in France and Belgium earlier. He also has NBA experience from the Los Angeles Clippers, where he had 4.7 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 22 games in 2007/08 season. That same year he also appeared 4 times with Dallas Mavs.


*****************************************************
  POLAND   

Standings - DBE

PLK Standings
Group A
 1. Asseco Prokom 4-1 
 2. Trefl Sopot 3-2 
 3. Zastal ZG 3-2 
 4. Anwil 2-3 
 5. Energa Czarni 2-3 
 6. PGE Turow 1-4 
Group B
 1. Slask Wroclaw 20-13 
 2. AZS Koszalin 17-16 
 3. Kotwica 16-17 
 4. Siarka Jezioro 15-18 
 5. Polpharma 12-20 
 6. AZS PW 10-22 
 7. PBG Basket 10-23 
 8. LKS Lodz 6-27 

Second Stage: Round 6

Group A

Mar. 31: Anwil - Asseco Prokom
Mar. 31: Zastal ZG - PGE Turow
Mar. 31: Trefl Sopot - Energa Czarni

Group B

Mar. 28: Polpharma - Kotwica 85-65
Mar. 28: Siarka Jezioro - PBG Basket 81-70
Mar. 28: Slask Wroclaw - AZS Koszalin 77-82
Mar. 28: AZS PW - LKS Lodz 66-81
Mar. 31: AZS Koszalin - AZS PW
Mar. 31: PBG Basket - Slask Wroclaw
Mar. 31: Kotwica - Siarka Jezioro
Mar. 31: LKS Lodz - Polpharma


DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Zastal ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Hodge, Zastal ZG18.2 
 2. Corbett, Siarka J.16.1 
 3. Koszarek, Trefl S.16.0 
 4. Edwards, Anwil15.8 
 5. Kulig, PBG Basket15.7 
 6. Miller, Siarka J.15.7 
 7. Micic, PBG Basket15.5 
 8. Weeden, Polpharma15.4 
 9. Turek, Trefl Sopot15.0 
 10. Kickert, PGE Turow15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  Kotwica
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Harris, Kotwica11.5 
 2. Lawal, Zastal ZG10.2 
 3. Burgess, Trefl S.8.0 
 4. Dluski, LKS Lodz8.0 
 5. Eziukwu, AZS K.7.8 
 6. Archibeque, Zastal7.4 
 7. Turek, Trefl Sopot7.1 
 8. Simmons, Polpharma7.0 
 9. Doaks, Siarka J.6.9 
 10. Bogavac, Slask W.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Skibniewski, Slask7.4 
 2. Hodge, Zastal ZG6.2 
 3. Moore, PGE Turow5.1 
 4. Milicic, AZS K.5.1 
 5. Koszarek, Trefl S.5.0 
 6. Wilczek, AZS P.4.9 
 7. Miller, Siarka J.4.7 
 8. Burrell, Energa C.4.7 
 9. Micic, PBG Basket4.6 
 10. Szubarga, Anwil4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Szubarga, Anwil1.8 
 2. Skibniewski, Slask1.7 
 3. Sapp, Kotwica1.5 
 4. Kinnard, Anwil1.5 
 5. Miller, Siarka J.1.4 
 6. Ponitka, AZS P.1.4 
 7. Koszarek, Trefl S.1.4 
 8. Hodge, Zastal ZG1.3 
 9. Dabrowski, Polph.1.3 
 10. Cesnauskis, Energ.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  AZS K.
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Eziukwu, AZS K.1.7 
 2. Burgess, Trefl S.1.6 
 3. Harris, Kotwica1.5 
 4. Kesicki, Kotwica1.4 
 5. Morrison, Energa C.1.3 
 6. Lauderdale, PGE T.1.3 
 7. Karnowski, Siarka1.1 
 8. Lawal, Zastal ZG1.1 
 9. Mladenovic, Slask1.1 
 10. Doaks, Siarka J.1.0 


Standings - 1 Liga

1Liga Standings
 1. Start Gdynia 21-6 
 2. Rosa Radom 18-9 
 3. Sokol Lancut 17-10 
 4. SKK Siedlce 17-10 
 5. MKS DG 16-11 
 6. Znicz Basket 16-11 
 7. Spojnia 16-11 
 8. AZS Kutno 14-13 
 9. Polonia 14-13 
 10. AZS Szczecin 13-14 
 11. P.Cukier SIDEn 13-14 
 12. Start Lublin 11-16 
 13. MOSiR Krosno 8-19 
 14. Sportino 6-21 
 15. Sudety 3-25 

Regular Season: Round 29

Mar. 28: Znicz Basket - Start Lublin 95-96 OT
Mar. 28: Start Gdynia - P.Cukier SIDEn 95-85
Mar. 28: Sportino - Polonia 83-72
Mar. 28: Spojnia - AZS Kutno 72-66
Mar. 28: AZS Szczecin - Sokol Lancut 70-82
Mar. 28: Sudety - Rosa Radom 64-88
Mar. 28: SKK Siedlce - MOSiR Krosno 49-68


Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game
 Lukasz PACOCHA
  AZS S.
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 18.4
 1. Pacocha, AZS S.18.4 
 2. Woloszyn, MKS D.18.0 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety16.7 
 4. Kostrzewski, Start16.0 
 5. Jarecki, P.Cuk.15.3 
 6. Mazur, Polonia15.3 
 7. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.14.1 
 8. Zytko, P..13.8 
 9. Kukielka, Sportino13.7 
 10. Parzych, Spojnia13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Krzysztof MIELCZAREK
  AZS S.
  (198-G/F-81)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Mielczarek, AZS S.11.8 
 2. Luszczewski, Start9.8 
 3. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.9.4 
 4. Mikolajko, Polonia7.9 
 5. Radke, Rosa Radom7.3 
 6. Grudzinski, Spojnia7.3 
 7. Wilusz, Sudety7.1 
 8. Klima, Sokol Lancut7.0 
 9. Malewski, Znicz B.7.0 
 10. Zielinski, MKS D.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Michal MUSIJOWSKI
  Polonia
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Musijowski, Polonia5.7 
 2. Grochowski, MKS D.5.0 
 3. Basinski, SKK S.4.7 
 4. Zytko, P..4.5 
 5. Kardas, Rosa Radom4.0 
 6. Ochonko, Spojnia3.9 
 7. Michalski, Start L.3.9 
 8. Brek, AZS Kutno3.8 
 9. Wojcicki, SKK S.3.6 
 10. Szumelda-K., Znic.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Lukasz ZYTKO
  P..
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Zytko, P..3.5 
 2. Sulinski, Znicz B.3.0 
 3. Mielczarek, AZS S.3.0 
 4. Niesobski, Sudety2.9 
 5. Szumelda-K., Znicz2.9 
 6. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.2.7 
 7. Szpyrka, Start G.2.6 
 8. Czubek, Znicz B.2.5 
 9. Pisarczyk, Sokol L.2.5 
 10. Musijowski, Polon.2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Artur DONIGIEWICZ
  Rosa R.
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Donigiewicz, Rosa2.0 
 2. Klima, Sokol Lancut1.8 
 3. Zytko, P..1.8 
 4. Niesobski, Sudety1.8 
 5. Oczkowicz, MOSiR K.1.8 
 6. Wojdyla, Start G.1.7 
 7. Grochowski, MKS D.1.6 
 8. Wojcicki, SKK S.1.6 
 9. Malecki, AZS Kutno1.6 
 10. Aleksandrowi., St.1.6 


End of the certain age new boss in Anwil Wloclawek - by Maciej Paszyn

The past week saw the historical change in Anwil Wloclawek club. Chairman of the management board and simultaneously GM of the club - Mr. Zbigniew Polatowski - at the own request he passed on the retirement after 22 years of the work in Anwil. Mr. Polatowski was one of originators and of founder members of the team, working in it from the beginning of club existing. He performed managerial functions for mid-nineties, leading the team to numerous domestic and European successes.

With decision of the supervisory board of the club Arkadiusz Lewandowski became a new chairman. Mr. Lewandowski is a former team manager in Anwil Wloclawek and Asseco Prokom Gdynia. He was also National Team manager on Eurobasket 2007 in Spain. The new chairman began the discharge of one's duties on the day of 22 March.



Francis Jonathan Han gets MVP of the Week award for Polish 1Liga - by Eurobasket News

Naturalized Puerto Rican Francis Jonathan Han (185-G-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for Sportino and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com 1Liga Player of the Week award for round 29.
The 24-year old guard had the game-high 22 points adding five rebounds and nine assists for Sportino in his team's victory, helping them to beat Polonia (#9, 14-13) 83-72. The game was not the highest importance and did not have significant influence on the top of the standings. Sportino maintains the 14th position in Puerto Rican 1Liga. The season is in a full swing, so it's only a dream for the team to make it into top half of the standings. For contrary they may face relegation if the situation turns from bad to worse. Sportino have already lost 21 games and recorded just six victories. In the team's last game Han had a remarkable four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He just recently signed at Sportino, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Francis Jonathan Han averages this season 15.4ppg and 6.8apg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old swingman Krzysztof Mielczarek (198-G/F-81) of AZS Szczecin. Mielczarek impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as AZS Szczecin lost that game 70-82 to the higher-ranked Sokol Lancut (#3, 17-10). AZS Szczecin managed to keep the same 10th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 13-14 record. Mielczarek is a newcomer at AZS Szczecin 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 Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-F-84) of Znicz Basket (#6). Szymanski scored 24 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Szymanski's great performance Znicz Basket lost 95-96in overtime to the lower-ranked Start Lublin (#12, 11-16). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Znicz Basket needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 16 victories and 11 lost games. Szymanski has a very solid season. In 26 games in Poland he scored 10.5ppg. He also has 6.2rpg and 1.3bpg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kamil Michalski (183-G-87) of Start Lublin - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists
5. Alan Czujkowski (198-C-90) of Znicz Basket - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Przemyslaw Luszczewski (195-F-80) of Start Lublin - 20 points and 10 rebounds
7. Piotr Pluta (192-G-81) of MOSiR Krosno - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Artur Donigiewicz (185-G-84) of Rosa Radom - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Piotr Kardas (182-G-78) of Rosa Radom - 12 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Pawel Bogdanowicz (197-F-87) of Sokol Lancut - 17 points and 2 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)


1Liga Round 29: SKK Siedlce is upset by MOSiR Krosno - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in 1Liga. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with extra overtimes and favorites losing the games.

The game between second ranked SKK Siedlce (17-10) and thirteenth ranked MOSiR Krosno (8-19) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. SKK Siedlce was crushed by MOSiR Krosno in Siedlce 68-49. The game without a history. MOSiR Krosno led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Strangely SKK Siedlce outrebounded MOSiR Krosno 40-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when MOSiR Krosno made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Piotr Pluta (192-G-81, agency: Court Side) who scored 25 points and 4 assists. Forward Marcin Salamonik (202-83) chipped in 15 points. MOSiR Krosno's coach Dusan Radovic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Adrian Czerwonka (196-81) produced 16 points and 8 rebounds for the hosts. Newly promoted MOSiR Krosno maintains thirteenth place with 8-19 record. SKK Siedlce at the other side dropped to the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Sokol Lancut. MOSiR Krosno are looking forward to face Sportino (#14) in Inowroclaw in the next round. SKK Siedlce will play on the road against the league's second-placed Rosa Radom (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Leader Start Gdynia delivered the twentieth first victory. This time they beat 11th ranked P.Cukier SIDEn (13-14) 95-85. Forward Tomasz Wojdyla (201-77) orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points and 5 rebounds. Piotr Smigielski contributed with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Start Gdynia's coach Pawel Turkiewicz allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Swingman Przemyslaw Lewandowski (204-78) answered with 17 points and 5 rebounds for P.Cukier SIDEn. Start Gdynia (21-6) have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place. Newly promoted P.Cukier SIDEn dropped to the tenth position with 14 games lost. They share it with AZS Szczecin. Start Gdynia will play against AZS Szczecin (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. P.Cukier SIDEn will play against Olimp MKS Start Lublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Twelfth ranked Olimp MKS Start Lublin won an overtime thriller against higher ranked MKS Znicz Basket by one point 96-95 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Pruszkow. But the guests from Lublin were better at the end. Kamil Michalski stepped up and scored 19 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Przemyslaw Szymanski responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). MKS Znicz Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Olimp MKS Start Lublin maintains twelfth place with 11-16 record. Loser MKS Znicz Basket keeps the fifth position with 11 games lost. They share it with MKS DG and Spojnia. Olimp MKS Start Lublin will meet higher ranked P.Cukier SIDEn (#11) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. MKS Znicz Basket will play against MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Inowroclaw, where higher ranked Polonia (14-13) lost to fourteenth ranked Sportino (6-21) in a road game 72-83. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Polonia. Francis Jonathan Han nailed 22 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Polonia's coach Maciej Milan tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Sportino maintains fourteenth place with 6-21 record. Newly promoted Polonia dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Sportino's next round opponent will be higher ranked MOSiR Krosno (#13) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Jelenia Gora. Local Sudety (3-25) was outscored by third ranked Rosa Radom (18-9) 88-64 on Wednesday night. The best player for the winners was Artur Donigiewicz who scored 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 blocks. 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 Rosa Radom. They moved-up to second place. Sudety lost their eighth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 25 lost games. Rosa Radom will face SKK Siedlce (#4) at home in the next round.

In the last two games of round 29 Sokol Lancut defeated AZS Szczecin in a road game 82-70. Spojnia beat AZS Kutno at home 72-66.

SKK Siedlce - MOSiR Krosno 49-68

The game between second ranked SKK Siedlce (17-10) and thirteenth ranked MOSiR Krosno (8-19) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. SKK Siedlce was crushed by MOSiR Krosno in Siedlce 68-49. The game without a history. MOSiR Krosno led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Strangely SKK Siedlce outrebounded MOSiR Krosno 40-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when MOSiR Krosno made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Piotr Pluta (192-81, agency: Court Side) who scored 25 points and 4 assists. Forward Marcin Salamonik (202-83) chipped in 15 points. MOSiR Krosno's coach Dusan Radovic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Adrian Czerwonka (196-81) produced 16 points and 8 rebounds and forward Lukasz Ratajczak (204-86) added 13 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Newly promoted MOSiR Krosno maintains thirteenth place with 8-19 record. SKK Siedlce at the other side dropped to the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Sokol Lancut. MOSiR Krosno are looking forward to face Sportino (#14) in Inowroclaw in the next round. SKK Siedlce will play on the road against the league's second-placed Rosa Radom (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
MOSiR Krosno: P.Pluta 25+4reb+4ast, M.Salamonik 15+3reb+2ast, M.Nitsche 9+4reb+4ast, D.Pieloch 5+1ast, M.Piotrkowski 4+4reb, S.Nowak 4+8reb
SKK Siedlce: A.Czerwonka 16+8reb+1ast, L.Ratajczak 13+8reb, P.Kowalczuk 13+2reb, R.Basinski 3+7reb+2ast, J.Czyz 2+8reb+1ast, R.Holnicki-Szulc 2+2reb
gschID: 141111


Sudety - Rosa Radom 64-88

The game with biggest result difference took place in Jelenia Gora. Local Sudety (3-25) was outscored by third ranked Rosa Radom (18-9) 88-64 on Wednesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Rosa Radom. Sudety was better in second period 22-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rosa Radom looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Rosa Radom made 11 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Artur Donigiewicz (185-84) who scored 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 blocks. Marcin Kosinski chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. Four Rosa Radom players scored in double figures. Guard Lukasz Niesobski (185-85) produced 17 points and forward Sebastian Balcerzak (195-80) added 8 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Rosa Radom. They moved-up to second place. Sudety lost their eighth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 25 lost games. Rosa Radom will face SKK Siedlce (#4) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Rosa Radom: M.Kosinski 15+3reb+6ast, J.Zalewski 13+1reb+1ast, A.Donigiewicz 13+7reb+4ast, P.Kardas 12+3reb+5ast, M.Nikiel 9+1reb+2ast, E.Podkowinski 9+3reb+3ast
Sudety: L.Niesobski 17+2ast, M.Sterenga 11+4reb, P.Minciel 9+6reb+1ast, S.Balcerzak 8+6reb+3ast, J.Wilusz 8+6reb, A.Kijanowski 7+3ast
gschID: 141112


Znicz Basket - Start Lublin 95-96 OT

Twelfth ranked Olimp MKS Start Lublin won an overtime thriller against higher ranked MKS Znicz Basket by one point 96-95 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Pruszkow. But the guests from Lublin were better at the end. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 23-18 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 1-point victory in overtime. Olimp MKS Start Lublin forced 22 MKS Znicz Basket turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Olimp MKS Start Lublin made 7 blocks. Guard Kamil Michalski (183-87) stepped up and scored 19 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals for the winners and forward Przemyslaw Luszczewski (195-80) chipped in 20 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-84) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and center Alan Czujkowski (198-90) scored 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks. Five Olimp MKS Start Lublin and four MKS Znicz Basket players scored in double figures. MKS Znicz Basket's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Olimp MKS Start Lublin maintains twelfth place with 11-16 record. Loser MKS Znicz Basket keeps the fifth position with 11 games lost. They share it with MKS DG and Spojnia. Olimp MKS Start Lublin will meet higher ranked P.Cukier SIDEn (#11) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. MKS Znicz Basket will play against MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Start Lublin: P.Luszczewski 20+10reb+1ast, M.Aleksandrowicz 19+3reb+3ast, K.Michalski 19+7reb+8ast, P.Kowalski 16+6reb+1ast, A.Mysliwiec 14+5reb, S.Szymanski 4+3reb+1ast
Znicz Basket: P.Szymanski 24+10reb, A.Czujkowski 23+7reb+3ast, D.Czubek 19+5reb+2ast, A.Misiewicz 10+11reb+2ast, M.Szumelda-Krzycki 9+3reb+4ast, A.Sulinski 8+1reb+3ast
gschID: 141106


Start Gdynia - P.Cukier SIDEn 95-85

Leader Start Gdynia delivered the twentieth first victory. This time they beat 11th ranked P.Cukier SIDEn (13-14) 95-85. The game was mostly controlled by Start Gdynia. P.Cukier SIDEn was better in fourth quarter 22-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Start Gdynia made 20-of-23 charity shots (87.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 P.Cukier SIDEn turnovers. They shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 55.6 percentage. Forward Tomasz Wojdyla (201-77) orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Piotr Smigielski (190-89) contributed with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Start Gdynia's coach Pawel Turkiewicz allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Swingman Przemyslaw Lewandowski (204-78) answered with 17 points and 5 rebounds and guard Jacek Jarecki (197-88) added 19 points in the effort for P.Cukier SIDEn. Four P.Cukier SIDEn players scored in double figures. Start Gdynia (21-6) have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place. Newly promoted P.Cukier SIDEn dropped to the tenth position with 14 games lost. They share it with AZS Szczecin. Start Gdynia will play against AZS Szczecin (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. P.Cukier SIDEn will play against Olimp MKS Start Lublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Start Gdynia: M.Kostrzewski 18+3reb+1ast, T.Wojdyla 17+5reb+3ast, P.Smigielski 15+5reb+4ast, K.Mlynarski 9+3reb+1ast, G.Mordzak 9+1reb+5ast, T.Andrzejewski 7+5reb
P.Cukier SIDEn: J.Jarecki 19+2reb+2ast, P.Lewandowski 17+5reb+2ast, L.Zytko 17+4reb+1ast, D.Witos 13+2reb+1ast, A.Kobus 5+2reb+1ast, L.Kwiatkowski 5+3reb
gschID: 141107


AZS Szczecin - Sokol Lancut 70-82

There was no surprise when 10th ranked AZS Szczecin (13-14) was defeated at home by fifth ranked Sokol Lancut (17-10) 82-70 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 82-70. Sokol Lancut made 18-of-21 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. They also forced 26 AZS Szczecin turnovers. Strangely AZS Szczecin outrebounded Sokol Lancut 35-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Sokol Lancut made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was forward Wojciech Pisarczyk (201-88) who scored 16 points. Forward Pawel Bogdanowicz (197-87) chipped in 17 points and 5 blocks. Five Sokol Lancut players scored in double figures. Swingman Krzysztof Mielczarek (198-81) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds and guard Lukasz Pacocha (182-82) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. AZS Szczecin's coach Zbigniew Majcherek let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Sokol Lancut moved-up to third place, which they share with SKK Siedlce. Loser AZS Szczecin keeps the tenth position with 14 games lost. Sokol Lancut will face AZS Kutno (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. AZS Szczecin will play against the league's leader Start Gdynia.
Top scorers:
Sokol Lancut: P.Bogdanowicz 17+2reb, W.Pisarczyk 16+3reb+3ast, M.Klima 13+3reb+1ast, P.Halas 12+2reb+2ast, M.Wilczek 10+5reb, T.Fortuna 7+2reb+2ast
AZS Szczecin: K.Mielczarek 18+14reb+2ast, L.Pacocha 13+1reb+1ast, M.Raczynski 12, T.Balcerek 7+3reb+2ast, M.Zarzeczny 5+2reb+1ast, K.Pytys 4+8reb+2ast
gschID: 141108


Spojnia - AZS Kutno 72-66

The game between closely ranked teams ended with seventh ranked Spojnia's (16-11) home victory over 8th ranked AZS Kutno (14-13) 72-66 on Wednesday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-8. But AZS Kutno won third quarter 23-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Spojnia made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 AZS Kutno turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Spojnia made 9 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Adam Parzych (190-86, college: Bryant) who scored 23 points. Power forward Lukasz Bodych (204-90) chipped in 12 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Aleks Perka (201-87, college: Rice, agency: Stanley International) produced 20 points and 7 rebounds and guard Dariusz Kalinowski (185-87) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Four AZS Kutno players scored in double figures. Spojnia moved-up to fifth place, which they share with MKS DG and Znicz Basket. Newly promoted AZS Kutno keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. Spojnia will face Polonia (#9) in Przemysl in the next round. AZS Kutno will play at home against Sokol Lancut.
Top scorers:
Spojnia: A.Parzych 23+1reb+2ast, L.Bodych 12+5reb+1ast, T.Ochonko 11+3reb+3ast, T.Stepien 9+2reb+2ast, W.Grudzinski 9+7reb+1ast, F.Dylik 4+5reb+1ast
AZS Kutno: A.Perka 20+7reb, D.Kalinowski 12+5reb+4ast, D.Brek 11+2reb+3ast, G.Malecki 10+4reb, A.Linowski 7+1reb+1ast, K.Jakobczyk 3+1reb+3ast
gschID: 141109


Sportino - Polonia 83-72

We should mention about the upset which took place in Inowroclaw, where higher ranked Polonia (14-13) lost to fourteenth ranked Sportino (6-21) in a road game 72-83. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Polonia. Polonia was ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 46-32 second half run of Sportino. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Polonia's players. Sportino brought some defensive toughness making 9 blocks. Naturalized Puerto Rican guard Francis Jonathan Han (185-87, college: Fairfield) nailed 22 points, 5 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winning side and the former international guard Grzegorz Kukielka (192-83) accounted for 16 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Hubert Mazur (190-84) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds and point guard Pawel Pydych (180-82) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Polonia in the defeat. Four Polonia players scored in double figures. Polonia's coach Maciej Milan tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Sportino maintains fourteenth place with 6-21 record. Newly promoted Polonia dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Sportino's next round opponent will be higher ranked MOSiR Krosno (#13) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Sportino: F.Jonathan Han 22+5reb+9ast, D.Adamczewski 16+3reb+4ast, G.Kukielka 16+5reb+3ast, T.Zablocki 9+3reb+4ast, J.Jankowiak 6+2ast, M.Strzelecki 6+8reb
Polonia: H.Mazur 18+5reb+2ast, P.Pydych 14+6reb+3ast, B.Bal 12+1reb, A.Mikolajko 10+6reb, A.Machowski 9+2reb+1ast, T.Przewrocki 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 141110



Jessie Sapp leaves Kotwica Kolobrzeg due to injury - by Eurobasket News

Jessie Sapp (191-G-86, college: Georgetown) is no longer a member of Kotwica Kolobrzeg. The American guard left Polish team due to injury. He joined the club in January of 2011. Sapp appeared 24 times in PLK this season averaging 14 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Last season he had 12.5 ppg, 4 rpg, 2.5 apg and 2.5 spg for 8 games. Jessie Sapp started last season with Slovakian Pezinok. There he had 16.5 ppg, 7 apg and 5.5 rpg for 32 games. His first season as a pro Sapp spent in UK. He was a member of the Scottish Rocks. They reached BBL Finals and Sapp was named Eurobasket.com All-British BBL 1st Team -10. Jessie Sapp graduated at Georgetown University in 2009.


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  PUERTO RICO   


Brujos add Powell, release Brock: - by Marcos Carlo

Brujos de Guayama strengthened the paint by signing former NBA player Josh Powell (206-F-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.). He is expected to make his debut tomorrow against Bayamon.

Powell comes from playing in China and Switzerland. He has NBA experience with Dallas, Indiana, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks.

Guayama released Evan Brock who averaged 9.57 points and 9.7 rebounds in seven games.

Brujos have a 4-8 record and are one game and a half from San German.


Indios continue strong in first place: - by Luis Modestti

Indios de Mayaguez continues their surprising year by beating Capitanes de Arecibo 83-76 at the Sports Palace. Indios have a 9-3 record while Arecibo fell to 7-7.

It was an up and down day for both teams as Arecibo dominated most of the first half with a 25-17 first quarter. Mayaguez reacted in the second quarter led by center Patrick O'Bryant (213-C-86, college: Bradley) and guard Carlos Rivera who did a great job on both sides.

The first half ended 43-38 in favor of Mayaguez as O'Bryant had 12 points and Rivera added 7. Larry Ayuso had 15 and Danilo Pinnock 11.

Arecibo regained the lead in the third quarter thanks to Ayuso and Pinnock but Mayaguez never gave up and took a late lead 63-62. Mayaguez never lost their advantage in the final quarter thanks to their defensive effort and team play.

O'Bryant led Indios with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Weyinmi Efejuku had 18 and Carlos Rivera 13.

Ayuso had 24 points and Pinnock 22 for Arecibo who shot 31 times from three-point land.


Wins for Brujos and Piratas on Tuesday: - by Luis Modestti

Brujos de Guayama and Piratas de Quebradillas needed and win and got it on Tuesday.

Brujos defeated Caciques de Humacao 82-72 led by Al Thornton (203-F-83, college: Florida St.) who scored 20 points and 13 rebounds. Jesus Verdejo (193-G-85, college: S.Florida) added 14, Wilfredo Pagan (184-PG-76, agency: Paris Global Sports) and Christopher Vega (182-PG-84) 13 each.

Julian Sensley (206-F-82, agency: VVG Sports, college: Hawaii) had 26 points and 10 rebounds for Humacao who continues in the bottom of the league with a 2-10 record.

Quebradillas had a positive reaction after releasing two of their imports as they defeated Guaynabo 81-71. Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, college: Sacramento St.) and Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) scored 20 points each and Alvin Cruz dished 10 assists.


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

Standings - D2

Div.B Standings
Seria 1
 1. Steaua Turabo II 8-2
 2. Ploiesti II 7-2
 3. Rapid B. 6-4
 4. BCM U 2 Pitesti 6-4
 5. A.Vlaicu Buc. 2-7
 6. CS Amicii 0-10
Seria 2
 1. CSU Galati 9-1
 2. Farul Const. 8-2
 3. CS Concordia 7-3
 4. Ph. Galati 3-7
 5. BT Bucuresti 2-8
 6. CSM Focsani 1-9
Seria 3
 1. Gaz Metan II 8-0
 2. Ph. Brasov 5-3
 3. CS Vabova 5-3
 4. Brasov 1-7
 5. T.Mures II 1-8
Seria 4
 1. Timba Timis. 7-1
 2. MP Timisoara 5-3
 3. U.Mobitel II 3-5
 4. West Olympia 3-5
 5. CSM 2 Oradea 2-6


Catalin Vulc resigned from the head coach position - by Ana Dutu


According to a press release published on the official site of CSU Sibiu, Catalin Vulc resigned from his position of head coach of the team, one day after CSU Sibiu lost the home game against BC Timisoara ( 94-68). As a consequence of the unsatisfactory results, coach Catalin Vulc announced the Board of Directors about his withdrawal from the head coach position, which has been designated to him by the Council of Administration at the time when former coach Audrius Prakuraitis resigned. Cristian Craciun, the former assistant coach and captain of CSU Sibiu, is now the person who will handle the training of the team until the end of the current season.
After the defeat with BC Timisoara the 8th ranked CSU Sibiu has practically minimal chances to still enter the play-off and has the same amount of points as as BCM U Pitesti and Energia Rovinari. The only difference is that Energia Rovinari has played a game less.
CSU Sibius next round oponent will be the higher ranked CSM Bucuresti which has 44 points after 26 matches played, 18 wins and 8 defeats.


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  RUSSIA   

Standings - Superleague A

PBL Standings
 1. CSKA 12-1 
 2. Khimky 10-2 
 3. Triumph 8-5 
 4. Lokomotiv 8-6 
 5. Krasnie Krilya 7-7 
 6. Spartak SP 6-7 
 7. Spartak-Prim. 5-6 
 8. Unics 5-6 
 9. Enisey 1-11 
 10. N.Novgorod 1-12 

Regular Season: Round 17

Mar. 28: Triumph - Krasnie Krilya 96-91 OT
Mar. 30: Spartak-Prim. - Lokomotiv


Stats Leaders - Superleague A

Points Per Game
 Davon JEFFERSON
  Triumph
  (204-F-86)
  Avg: 19.8
 1. Jefferson, Triumph19.8 
 2. Thomas, Spartak-.17.1 
 3. Rush, Krasnie Kril.16.9 
 4. Beverley, Spart.16.1 
 5. Fridzon, Khimky15.1 
 6. Massey, Lokomotiv14.5 
 7. Victor, Spartak-.14.3 
 8. McKee, Triumph13.9 
 9. Karasev, Triumph13.9 
 10. Labovic, Krasnie13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cuthbert VICTOR
  Spartak-.
  (197-F-83)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Victor, Spartak-.8.8 
 2. Jefferson, Triumph7.7 
 3. Massey, Lokomotiv7.7 
 4. Landry, Triumph6.8 
 5. Savenkov, Spartak.6.3 
 6. Monya, Khimky6.2 
 7. Baxter, Enisey6.2 
 8. Kirilenko, CSKA6.0 
 9. Beverley, Spart.5.8 
 10. Khryapa, CSKA5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Krasnie Krilya
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 6
 1. Miles, Krasnie Kri.6.0 
 2. Beverley, Spart.4.9 
 3. Thomas, Spartak-.4.6 
 4. Teodosic, CSKA4.6 
 5. Samoylenko, Unics4.4 
 6. Halperin, Spart.4.4 
 7. McKee, Triumph4.3 
 8. Planinic, Khimky4.1 
 9. Rush, Krasnie Kril.3.7 
 10. Bremer, N.Novgorod3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spart.
  (185-PG-88)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Beverley, Spart.2.5 
 2. Massey, Lokomotiv2.3 
 3. Thomas, Spartak-.2.2 
 4. Baburin, Spartak-.2.0 
 5. Jefferson, Triumph2.0 
 6. Halperin, Spart.1.7 
 7. Planinic, Khimky1.7 
 8. Victor, Spartak-.1.5 
 9. Miles, Krasnie Kri.1.5 
 10. Rush, Krasnie Kri.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA1.4 
 2. Jefferson, Triumph1.3 
 3. Likhodey, Spart.1.2 
 4. Savenkov, Spartak.1.1 
 5. Traore, Lokomotiv0.8 
 6. Baxter, Enisey0.8 
 7. Balashov, Krasni.0.7 
 8. Khryapa, CSKA0.6 
 9. Krstic, CSKA0.6 
 10. Savrasenko, Unics0.6 


Bilbao is alive against CSKA, grabs first ever Euroleague playoffs win - by Eurobasket News

Gescrap BB - CSKA 94-81

Gescrap Bilbao Basket is alive in the Euroleague Quarterfinals. The Spanish squad registered first ever Euroleague playoffs victory by beating CSKA Moscow 94-81 tonight. It means that Bilbao came to 1-2 in the series and extended it for at least one more game, which is scheduled for Thursday and Bilbao will be the host again. Kostas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) was a key player for the hosts as he collected 20 points and 6 rebounds. Marko Banic (205-F-84) also shined scoring 18 points, Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) had 13 points and 8 assists, while Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) added 12 pts. In CSKA Moscow, center Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) answered with 22 points. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) (6 rebs) and Alexey Shved had 16 and 15 points respectively. Bilbao had minimum lead at the end of the first period (25-24) and that includes 12-0 run during the quarter. At the halfway of Q2 teams were tied to 36-36, but than Kostas Vasiliadis and his teammates created 9-0 run and went to the halftime with 47-40. Lopez, Banic, Grimau and Mavroeidis shined in the finish of third period and with another 9-0 run brought 16-point lead to their team against the Russian powerhouse. Andrei Kirilenko hit foul shots but only brought CSKA within 71-57 at the end of the third quarter. With 7 minutes remaining it was 80-63 for Bilbao and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. Quarters: 25-24, 22-16, 24-17, 23-24.

Bilbao: Kostas Vasiliadis 20+6 boards, Marko Banic 18, Aaron Jackson 13+8 as, Alex Mumbru 12
CSKA: Nenad Krstic 22, Andrei Kirilenko 16+6 boards, Alexey Shved 15


Juan Carlos Navarro leads Barca to Euroleague Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Unics - FCB Regal 56-67 (0-3)

Regal Barca is the first team who booked a spot for the Euroleague Final Four. The reigning Spanish champ celebrated 56-67 victory in Kazan to eliminate Unics with perfect 3-0 in the series. Barca shined in the last ten minutes of this game to secure the victory. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) top-scored for the guests with 21 points and he was their only player with double digits. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 9 points and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) added one less. In the loosing squad, Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) answered with 19 points. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 12 and their third scorer was Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) with only 6 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 19-17, 15-11, 11-18, 11-21. A layup by Alksey Savrasenko made Unics tie the game, 50-50, with 8 minutes left but C.J. Wallace, Fran Vazquez and Chuck Eidson combined for all points in a 0-10 run that sealed the outcome, 50-60, sending Barcelona to the Final Four. It will start on May 11 in Istanbul. Barcelona made it to the Final Four for the 12th time in club history - third appearance in four years.

Unics: Henry Domercant 19, Terrell Lyday 12, Nathan Jawai 6
Regal Barca: Juan Carlos Navarro 21, Marcelinho Huertas 9, Boniface Ndong 8


*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   

D1 Standings

Premier League Standings
 1. Uhud 15-1 
 2. Al Fath 12-3 
 3. Al Ahli 12-4 
 4. Al Ittihad 11-5 
 5. Al Wehda 8-7 
 6. Al Ansar 7-5 
 7. Al Qadisiya 7-7 
 8. Al Hilal 5-7 
 9. Al Nahdha 3-9 
 10. Al Kweldeeh 3-12 
 11. Al Jubail 2-10 
 12. Al Safa 0-15 

Regular Season: Round 18

Mar. 25: Al Qadisiya - Al Jubail 86-68
Mar. 26: Al Wehda - Al Nahdha 79-54
Mar. 25: Al Kweldeeh - Al Safa 78-61
Mar. 26: Al Ansar - Uhud 71-74
Mar. 26: Al Hilal - Al Fath 62-74
Mar. 27: Al Ittihad - Al Ahli 103-63

Round 13

Mar. 23: Uhud - Al Wehda 93-78

Round 15

Mar. 23: Al Ansar - Al Wehda 67-62

Regular Season: Round 19

Mar. 29: Uhud - Al Hilal
Mar. 29: Al Qadisiya - Al Kweldeeh
Mar. 29: Al Ansar - Al Fath
Mar. 29: Al Jubail - Al Safa
Mar. 30: Al Ittihad - Al Nahdha
Mar. 30: Al Ahli - Al Wehda



*****************************************************
  SERBIA   

Standings - A Liga

A Standings
SuperLiga
 1. Crvena Zvezda 2-0 
 2. Partizan 2-0 
 3. Radnicki Basket 2-0 
 4. BKK Radnicki 1-1 
 5. Radnicki K. 1-1 
 6. Vojvodina 0-2 
 7. Hemofarm 0-2 
 8. Mega Vizura 0-2 
Places 9-18
 1. OKK Beograd 15-11 
 2. Tamis 15-11 
 3. Sloga 13-13 
 4. Borac 12-14 
 5. Smederevo 12-212 
 6. Sloboda Uzice 11-15 
 7. Metalac 10-16 
 8. Napredak 8-18 
 9. Zeleznicar 6-20 
 10. Proleter Naftagas 2-24 

Second Stage: Round 2

Mar. 28: Crvena Zvezda - Vojvodina 91-77
Mar. 27: Radnicki Basket - Mega Vizura 90-73
Mar. 28: Hemofarm - Partizan 70-95
Mar. 28: Radnicki K. - BKK Radnicki 70-81

Second Stage: Round 3

Apr. 1: Vojvodina - Hemofarm
Apr. 1: BKK Radnicki - Crvena Zvezda
Apr. 1: Mega Vizura - Radnicki K.
Apr. 1: Partizan - Radnicki Basket


Superleague, Round 2 review: BKK Radnicki shocks Radnicki in Kragujevac - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Superleague.

Radnicki K. - BKK Radnicki 70-81
Radnicki K. was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. They outrebounded Radnicki K. 38-25 including 27 on the defensive glass. BKK Radnicki players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. Center Aleksandar Petrovic (206-72) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Center Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-85) contributed with 19 points for the winners. Four BKK Radnicki players scored in double figures. American center David Simon (207-82, college: IPFW) replied with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds and Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 9 points and 12 assists in the effort for Radnicki K.
Top scorers:
BKK Radnicki: D.Kitanovic 19+3reb+1ast, A.Petrovic 14+11reb+2ast, M.Mijovic 12+7reb+1ast, S.Lalic 11+3reb+3ast, M.Tomic 8+3reb, Z.Osmokrovic 8+3reb+12ast
Radnicki K.: S.Bircevic 17+4reb+1ast, M.Scott 13+2reb, D.Simon 13+11reb+1ast, M.Pavkovic 9+1reb+12ast, B.Bakic 7+4reb+2ast, B.Marjanovic 4
gschID: 171713


Crvena Zvezda - Vojvodina 91-77
Zvezda defeated Vojvodina in Beograd 91-77. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 91-77. Zvezda dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Vojvodina's 34 and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Vojvodina 39-24 including 26 on the defensive glass. 26 personal fouls committed by Vojvodina helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was power forward Sava Lesic (205-88) who scored 18 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Power forward Nikola Markovic (208-89) chipped in a double-double by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds. Center Dusko Bunic (207-89) produced 13 points and 9 rebounds and forward Strahinja Milosevic (203-85) added 16 points respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Crvena Zvezda: S.Lesic 18+5reb, O.Thomas 12+5reb+2ast, N.Markovic 11+11reb+1ast, B.Popovic 9+2reb+3ast, P.Popovic 8+5reb, A.Milutinovic 7+1reb
Vojvodina: S.Milosevic 16+3reb+1ast, D.Bunic 13+9reb, S.Stojacic 11+4reb+2ast, R.Markovic 9, N.Kalinic 8+1reb+2ast, V.Ivelja 7+1reb
gschID: 171714


Hemofarm - Partizan 70-95
Partizan smashed Hemofarm 95-70 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Partizan. Hemofarm managed to win second period 16-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Partizan shot 68.0 percent from the field. Partizan had a 19-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Partizan especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Hemofarm's players. International center Milan Macvan (206-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and forward Vladimir Lucic (202-89, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Partizan players scored in double figures. Montenegrin guard Bojan Bakic (197-83, agency: Alti Sport) responded with 18 points and Montenegrin center Boris Lalovic (206-81) scored 14 points.
Top scorers:
Partizan: M.Raduljica 19+4reb+1ast, V.Lucic 17+4reb+4ast, M.Macvan 16+7reb+4ast, D.James 12+1reb+5ast, R.Katic 6+3reb+2ast, D.Kecman 5+1reb+4ast
Hemofarm: B.Bakic 18+3reb+1ast, B.Lalovic 14+2reb+1ast, M.Jeremic 11+1ast, N.Dangubic 9+2reb+3ast, N.Otasevic 7+1reb+2ast, L.Mitrovic 3+2reb+2ast
gschID: 171711


Radnicki Basket - Mega Vizura 90-73
The game was mostly controlled by Radnicki Basket. Mega Vizura managed to win second period 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Radnicki Basket made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Mega Vizura turnovers. Andrej Dzakovic scored 14 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Ivan Smiljanic (198-89) chipped in 16 points and 4 steals during the contest. Four Radnicki Basket players scored in double figures. Power forward Andrija Bojic (206-93, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 13 points and 5 rebounds and guard Nenad Miljenovic (194-93, agency: Beo Basket) scored 12 points.
Top scorers:
Radnicki Basket: I.Smiljanic 16+4reb+2ast, M.Stojadinovic 14+4reb+1ast, A.Dzakovic 14+7reb+3ast, D.Djokic 11+3ast, M.Dimic 9+1reb+2ast, M.Milovanovic 8+5reb+1ast
Mega Vizura: A.Bojic 13+5reb+1ast, N.Miljenovic 12+4reb+2ast, P.Reljic 10+4reb+2ast, B.Milisavljevic 9+1reb+1ast, S.Matovic 8+5reb, D.Cvetkovic 8+2reb+1ast

Superleague standings
1. Crvena Zvezda 2-0
2. Partizan 2-0
3. Radnicki Basket 2-0
4. BKK Radnicki 1-1
5. Radnicki K. 1-1
6. Vojvodina 0-2
7. Hemofarm 0-2
8. Mega Vizura 0-2


Miroslav Raduljica gets MVP of the Week award for Serbian A League (Second Stage) - by Eurobasket News

Former international center Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) had an amazing evening in the last round for Partizan and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Round award for round 2. The 23-year old center had the game-high 19 points adding four rebounds for Partizan in his team's victory, helping them to crush Hemofarm (#7, 0-2) with 25-point margin 95-70. Partizan has 2-0 record now.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was another Partizan's star - 22-year old international center Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group). Macvan impressed basketball fans with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course together with Raduljica he helped Partizan with another comfortable win outscoring Hemofarm (0-2) 95-70.

The third best performed player last round was Sava Lesic (205-C/F-88) of Crvena Zvezda. Lesic scored 18 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Crvena Zvezda, leading his team to a 91-77 easy win against Vojvodina (#6, 0-2). Crvena Zvezda has a very good start of the Superleague (2-0).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dusko Bunic (207-C-89) of Vojvodina - 13 points and 9 rebounds
5. Andrej Dzakovic) of Radnicki Basket - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81) of Radnicki K. - 9 points and 12 assists
7. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89) of Partizan - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-C-85) of BKK Radnicki - 19 points and 3 rebounds
9. David Simon (207-C-82) of Radnicki K. - 13 points and 11 rebounds
10. Ivan Smiljanic (198-F-89) of Radnicki Basket - 16 points, 4 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)


Zeljko Lukajic extends deal in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

Zeljko Lukajic (agency: Beo Basket) got a one-year contract extension from the Ukrainian team Politekhnika-Halychyna. They also extended center Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) for 2012/13. The Serbian coach took over Halychyna in February. They won three straight games immediately. Lukajic currently has 4 wins and 4 defeats record with Halychyna. Zeljko Lukajic worked with Hemofarm Stada from 2009 until January this year. Before that, he spent one year with Universitet Surgut, one with Lukoil Akademik and one with Igokea. In the past, he worked several years with Hemofarm. They won the Adriatic league title in 2005. Four years before that Hemofarm reached the finals of European Cup Radivoj Korac. Lukajic also has experience from PAOK, Borovica and Partizan.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Extraliga Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Prievidza - Nitra 90-70

Prievidza eased past Nitra in the semifinal series opener. The game was mostly controlled by Prievidza. Nitra was better in third quarter 23-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Prievidza especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of Bermudas-British swingman Sullivan Phillips (198-79, college: Wash.Adventist, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording 20 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. American guard David Godbold (196-85, college: Oklahoma, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Puerto Rican point guard Denis Clemente (185-86, college: Kansas St., agency: KMG Sports Management) answered with 29 points and the former international center Branislav Tomek (205-83) added 11 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Nitra. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Prievidza: S.Phillips 20+4reb+7ast, D.Godbold 14+8reb+1ast, B.Davis 14+3reb+3ast, L.Potter 11+4reb+1ast, N.Livas 8+6reb+2ast, K.Averink 8+1reb
Nitra: D.Clemente 29+1reb+3ast, M.Ziak 12+4reb+1ast, B.Tomek 11+7reb+2ast, R.Nuber 10+2reb+2ast, D.Silinskis 6+7reb, M.Jass 2+3reb+1ast
gschID: 172088


Komarno - Svit 89-78

Komarno are now 1-0 up on Svit following a comfortable home win. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Komarno outrebounded Svit 50-36 including 38 on the defensive glass. 25 personal fouls committed by Svit helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Johnathon Jones (183-88, college: Oakland, agency: TSS Management) fired 26 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Dominique Keller (203-88, college: Illinois) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points, 20 rebounds and 4 blocks. Keller is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Komarno players scored in double figures. American forward Kenneth Henderson (201-82, college: Texas Arlington) produced 22 points and 9 rebounds and forward Vincent Polakovic (203-84, college: USF) added 24 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Komarno: J.Jones 26+9reb+5ast, D.Keller 17+20reb+1ast, L.Johnson 15+8reb+2ast, M.Bilik 12+3reb, M.Jurik 7+2reb+2ast, L.Dubovsky 5+1reb+2ast
Svit: V.Polakovic 24+8reb+1ast, K.Henderson 22+9reb+3ast, P.Cosic 11+3ast, E.Znanec 6+5reb, R.Findura 6+1reb+1ast, M.Micka 5+4reb+2ast
gschID: 172087



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  SOUTH KOREA   


Dongbu Promy won KBL Final opener - by Eurobasket News

Dongbu Promy - Anyang KGC 80-75

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 27-20. But Anyang KGC won second period 24-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Dongbu Promy made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Dongbu Promy outrebounded Anyang KGC 42-20 including a 20-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Anyang KGC helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 18 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!) for the winners and forward Ho-Young Yoon (198-84) chipped in 16 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side guard Tae-Sool Kim (180-84) responded with 18 points and 7 assists and American center Chris Daniels (211-84) scored 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks. Four Anyang KGC players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Dongbu Promy: R.Benson 26+18reb+1ast, K.Lee 17+4reb+2ast, H.Yoon 16+7reb+2ast, J.Kim 9+4reb+2ast, J.Park 6+4reb+7ast, J.Hwang 5+1reb
Anyang KGC: S.Oh 19+3reb+2ast, T.Kim 18+1reb+7ast, C.Daniels 15+9reb+1ast, H.Yang 10+3reb+1ast, C.Park 8+1reb+4ast, J.Lee 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 171997



Promy Hold On for Game 1 Victory - by Kevin Campigotto

If game 1 of the KBL finals was any indication of what's to come in this series, it's going to be a fun week. Wonju Dongbu Promy held on to defeat Anyang KGC 80-75 in a game that was intense and physical form tip off to the end. Wonju's Rod Benson (207-F/C-84, college: California) had 26 points and 18 rebounds to lead all scorers. Anyang's Oh Sek-Eun (200-C-87) led his squad with 19 points while Chris Daniels (211-C-84) barely missed out on a double-double scoring 15 points and netting 9 rebounds. Wonju's star forward Kim Joo-Sung (205-F/C-79) was hampered by foul trouble all night and played less than 30 minutes but still had 9 points and 4 rebounds.

Only a single point separated the teams at the half and though Wonju built an eleven point lead midway through the fourth the momentum appeared to swing with Kim Joo-Sung fouled out. Anyang did its best to come back but Wonju made just enough free throws to seal the victory.

These teams appear to very evenly matched with Kim and Benson on one side and Oh and Daniels on the other. The two pairs battled it out all night, and the play was physical and intense. In the third quarter, Kim got in a tussle with Daniels that ended with him on the ground screaming for a foul, Daniels being given a foul and a technical foul, and having to be separated from both the referees and an irate Kim. These two will be seeing a lot of each other as the first four games of the finals all take place in a 5-day window.

The main storyline in this series should be youth vs. veteran experience. Kim Joo-Sung may still be the better player, but Oh Sek-Eun is the future of this league. Regardless of how this series turns out Anyang fans have got to be proud that their team went from the bottom of the league to the finals and appear to be built to be a perennial contender.
Another bright spot for Wonju was returning shooting guard Lee Kwang-Jae (188-G/F-84) who had 17 points including 3 of 4 from 3-point range. Last year Wonju struggled to stretch the floor and with Lee back they seem to have everything they need to clinch the title.

Game two is set for tomorrow night in Wonju before the series shifts to Anyang for games on Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday if necessary.


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  SPAIN   


Pau Gasol selected the top Spaniard playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol
   #1. This week's number one is an international power forward Pau Gasol (214-80). He was the major contributor in a Los Angeles Lakers' victory against the Dallas Mavericks (29-22) 109-93 in the NBA in Wednesday night's game. Gasol scored 27 points (!!!) and grabbed 9 rebounds in 37 minutes on the court. The Los Angeles Lakers have a solid 31-19 record this season. It's Gasol's fourth year with the team. He has individually a very good year with high stats. Gasol averages: 16.8ppg, 10.6rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 51.3%, 3FGP: 27.8% and FT: 77.6% in the 50 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Spanish senior national team.

Marc Gasol
Marc Gasol
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Marc Gasol (212-85, agency: Interperformances), who plays in the NBA. Gasol could not help the Memphis Grizzlies (27-21) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his very good performance the Memphis Grizzlies were defeated 97-93 on the road by the Portland Trail Blazers. Gasol was the top scorer with 22 points. He also added 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Gasol is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Grizzlies' roster. This season Gasol has very high stats. He averages: 15.5ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 49.7%, 3FGP: 9.1% and FT: 75.2%. Gasol is in the roster of the Spanish senior national team.

Serge Ibaka
Serge Ibaka
   #3. The Spanish player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Serge Ibaka (208-89). He led Oklahoma City Thunder to an easy victory against the Miami Heat (35-13) 103-87 in the NBA on Sunday night. Ibaka had a double-double by scoring 19 points and getting 10 rebounds in 32 minutes. The Oklahoma City Thunder has a very solid 38-12 record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Ibaka's first year with the team. He has relatively good stats this season: 9.0ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.3bpg, 2FGP: 53.1% and FT: 67.4% in the 50 games. Ibaka has a dual citizenship: Congolese and Spanish. Despite he played previously for the Congolese national team, Ibaka is currently a member of the Spanish senior national team.

Luis Scola
Luis Scola
   #4. Power forward Luis Scola (206-80), who plays in the NBA was not able to help the Houston Rockets (27-24) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance the Houston Rockets were defeated 90-81 in Dallas by the Mavericks. Scola was the top scorer with 22 points. He also added 8 rebounds and dished 4 assists. Scola has been at the team for five years. This season Scola has very high stats. He averages: 16.0ppg, 6.5rpg and 2.0apg. Scola is another player who holds two passports: Argentinian and Spanish. Despite he played previously for the Argentinian national team, Scola is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

Jose Manuel Calderon
Jose Manuel Calderon
   #5. International point guard Jose Manuel Calderon (190-81), who plays in the NBA was not able to secure a victory for the Toronto Raptors (16-34) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the Toronto Raptors were edged in an overtime 102-101 in Chicago by the Bulls. Calderon had a double-double by scoring 20 points and making 10 passes. He also added 6 rebounds in 45 minutes. Calderon plays seventh season for the team. Calderon is ranked fourth on the list of the best passers in the league with 8.6apg. This year he also averages: 10.5ppg and 3.2rpg in the 45 games. Despite Calderon played previously for the Argentinian national team, he is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

Tiago Splitter
Tiago Splitter
   #6. Power forward Tiago Splitter (211-85, also represented by Interperformances) led San Antonio Spurs to an easy victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves (24-27) 116-100 in the NBA on Wednesday night. Splitter scored 11 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 5 assists. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 34-14 record this season. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. It's Splitter's first year with the team. This season he has relatively solid stats: 9.2ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.2apg. Despite Splitter played previously for the Brazilian national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Spanish National Team roster.

Gustavo Barrera
Gustavo Barrera
   #7. International guard Gustavo Barrera (194-85) led Hebraica to a victory over the leader Aguada (8-2) crushing them 91-62 in the Uruguayan LUB in Monday night's game. Barrera was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 30 points and making 11 passes. Barrera also added and 3 steals in 31 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Serie 1. Hebraica Macabi (9-1) is placed first. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. It's Barrera's first season with the team. Barrera is currently first on the list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (third place). He has very reliable stats this year: 12.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 8.6apg and 2.4spg in the 40 games. Despite Barrera played previously for the Uruguayan national team, he is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

Omar Quintero
Omar Quintero
   #8. Point guard Omar Quintero (183-81, college: S.Nazarene), who plays in the Mexican CIBACOPA couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Tijuana Zonkeys (7-3) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite Quintero's very good performance Tijuana Zonkeys was defeated in an overtime 98-93 in Hermosillo by the second-ranked Rayos de. He was the top scorer with 37 points. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Quintero belongs to league's top scorers and is ranked #3. This season he has very high stats. Quintero averages: 20.7ppg, 2.8rpg and 3.0apg. Despite he played previously for the Mexican national team, Quintero is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

Ruben Garces
Ruben Garces
   #9. International power forward Ruben Garces (206-73, college: Providence) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Caciques (2-10) 97-82 in the Puerto Rican BSN on Wednesday night. He scored 8 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in 18 minutes. Capitanes de Arecibo (7-6) is placed fourth in the BSN. This year Garces' overall stats are: 4.7ppg and 5.8rpg in the 12 games. Despite he played previously for the Panamanian national team, Garces is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

Jan Martin
Jan Martin
   #10. Power forward Jan Martin (203-84, agency: Court Side) contributed to a 2-point Galil Gilboa's victory against the league leader Maccabi Ashdod (15-5) 76-74 in the Israeli Premier League in Sunday night's game. He recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa (14-6) is placed second in the Premier League. The Regular Season already ended. Martin's total stats this season are: 5.0ppg and 2.6rpg. Despite he played previously for the Panamanian national team, Martin is also a former U20 international player as eight years ago he still played for the Spanish national team.

   #11. Former international center Albert Miralles (208-82, another player represented by Interperformances) couldn't help Angelico Biella in their game against Air Avellino in the Italian SerieA. He scored 8 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 25 minutes. His team was edged 71-70. Miralles has reliable stats this year: 10.6ppg, 6.7rpg and 1.1spg in the 25 games. Despite he played previously for the Panamanian national team, Miralles is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

   #12. Former international forward Devin Davis (202-74, college: Miami, OH) contributed to a GECR Indalo's victory against the closely-ranked La Union 83-72 in the Argentinian LigaA on Sunday night. He recorded 6 points and grabbed 17 rebounds. Davis is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league. His total stats this season are: 9.8ppg and 9.3rpg. Davis is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Davis is currently in the Spanish national team roster. He used to play for 13.6ppg, Reb-1(9.8), 2apg, in April '98 signed with Huelva in Spanish league.

   #13. Former international forward Carlos Fernandez (197-87, college: IlIinois Tech) helped Worcester Wolves win their game against the ninth-ranked Cheshire Jets crushing them 94-65 in the British BBL in Sunday night's game. Fernandez scored 10 points, had 6 boards, dished 3 assists and stole 3 balls in 20 minutes. This year his total stats are: 7.1ppg, 4.2rpg and 2.7apg in the 27 games. Despite Fernandez played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Spanish national team roster.

   #14. Former international guard Lucas Victoriano (190-77, another player represented by Interperformances) couldn't help San Martin Corrientes in their game against Olimpico de La Banda in the Argentinian LigaA. Victoriano scored 5 points, made 6 passes and 4 steals. His team was defeated 96-89. He has averaged so far 7.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.7apg and 1.1spg. Victoriano used to play for the Spanish national team back in 2005.

   #15. Former international power forward Sergi Coll (204-82) helped Barcelos win their game against the sixth-ranked Lusitania crushing them 78-55 in the Portuguese LPB on Saturday night. He scored 14 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 33 minutes. Coll has very impressive stats this year: 15.1ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.3apg and 1.2spg in the 20 games. Despite he played previously for the Argentinian national team, Coll is currently in the Spanish national team roster.


Juan Carlos Navarro leads Barca to Euroleague Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Unics - FCB Regal 56-67 (0-3)

Regal Barca is the first team who booked a spot for the Euroleague Final Four. The reigning Spanish champ celebrated 56-67 victory in Kazan to eliminate Unics with perfect 3-0 in the series. Barca shined in the last ten minutes of this game to secure the victory. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) top-scored for the guests with 21 points and he was their only player with double digits. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 9 points and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) added one less. In the loosing squad, Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) answered with 19 points. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 12 and their third scorer was Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) with only 6 points (5 rebs). Quarters: 19-17, 15-11, 11-18, 11-21. A layup by Alksey Savrasenko made Unics tie the game, 50-50, with 8 minutes left but C.J. Wallace, Fran Vazquez and Chuck Eidson combined for all points in a 0-10 run that sealed the outcome, 50-60, sending Barcelona to the Final Four. It will start on May 11 in Istanbul. Barcelona made it to the Final Four for the 12th time in club history - third appearance in four years.

Unics: Henry Domercant 19, Terrell Lyday 12, Nathan Jawai 6
Regal Barca: Juan Carlos Navarro 21, Marcelinho Huertas 9, Boniface Ndong 8


Bilbao is alive against CSKA, grabs first ever Euroleague playoffs win - by Eurobasket News

Gescrap BB - CSKA 94-81

Gescrap Bilbao Basket is alive in the Euroleague Quarterfinals. The Spanish squad registered first ever Euroleague playoffs victory by beating CSKA Moscow 94-81 tonight. It means that Bilbao came to 1-2 in the series and extended it for at least one more game, which is scheduled for Thursday and Bilbao will be the host again. Kostas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) was a key player for the hosts as he collected 20 points and 6 rebounds. Marko Banic (205-F-84) also shined scoring 18 points, Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) had 13 points and 8 assists, while Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) added 12 pts. In CSKA Moscow, center Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) answered with 22 points. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) (6 rebs) and Alexey Shved had 16 and 15 points respectively. Bilbao had minimum lead at the end of the first period (25-24) and that includes 12-0 run during the quarter. At the halfway of Q2 teams were tied to 36-36, but than Kostas Vasiliadis and his teammates created 9-0 run and went to the halftime with 47-40. Lopez, Banic, Grimau and Mavroeidis shined in the finish of third period and with another 9-0 run brought 16-point lead to their team against the Russian powerhouse. Andrei Kirilenko hit foul shots but only brought CSKA within 71-57 at the end of the third quarter. With 7 minutes remaining it was 80-63 for Bilbao and it was already clear who the winner of the night will be. Quarters: 25-24, 22-16, 24-17, 23-24.

Bilbao: Kostas Vasiliadis 20+6 boards, Marko Banic 18, Aaron Jackson 13+8 as, Alex Mumbru 12
CSKA: Nenad Krstic 22, Andrei Kirilenko 16+6 boards, Alexey Shved 15


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  SWEDEN   

Standings - BasketEttan

Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Eagles 22-0
 2. Taby 17-5
 3. LF Future 15-7
 4. Akropol 13-9
 5. Blackeberg 12-10
 6. Haga Haninge 11-11
 7. Orongo 10-12
 8. Talje 10-12
 9. Uppsala KFUM 9-13
 10. Jarva Devils 7-15
 11. Eskilstuna 4-18
 12. BG Lulea 2-20
South
 1. Malbas 21-1
 2. Nassjo 20-2
 3. Hoganas 15-7
 4. Brahe Basket 15-7
 5. Srbija 13-9
 6. Solna Branten 9-13
 7. Helsingborg 9-13
 8. Norrkoping BK 6-16
 9. Sanda 6-16
 10. Hogsbo 6-16
 11. Eos 6-16
 12. Fryshuset 6-16

Quarter-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 1: Hoganas - Taby
Apr. 1: LF Future - Nassjo


Stats Leaders - BasketEttan

Points Per Game
 Binyam FEGHADU
  Jarva D.
  (195-G-89)
  Avg: 28.4
 1. Feghadu, Jarva D.28.4 
 2. Fitzgerald, Malbas26.1 
 3. Bergstrom, Black.22.3 
 4. Vukovic, Helsingbo.20.1 
 5. Banks, Taby19.6 
 6. Ganstrand, Sanda18.9 
 7. Karovic, Eos18.6 
 8. Cedermarker, Srb.18.4 
 9. Robinson, Brahe B.17.7 
 10. Norstrom, Eskil.17.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Todorce PETKOVSKI
  Srbija
  (200-F-80)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Petkovski, Srbija11.3 
 2. Eliassson, Solna B.10.8 
 3. Damjanovic, Nassjo10.7 
 4. Rawlins, Up.10.6 
 5. Vukovic, Helsingbo.9.7 
 6. Ali Hussein, LF Fu.9.5 
 7. Robinson, Brahe B.9.4 
 8. Nordin, Taby9.2 
 9. Hartmann, Akropol9.2 
 10. Fitzgerald, Malbas9.1 
Assists Per Game
 Stefan NGUYEN
  Fryshuset
  (189-G-92)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Nguyen, Fryshuset5.4 
 2. Wazzi, Nassjo4.9 
 3. Kovacek, Talje4.7 
 4. Ryan, LF Future4.6 
 5. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.6 
 6. Hultman-Boye, Hag.4.5 
 7. Lundin, Taby4.5 
 8. Kutra, Hoganas4.3 
 9. Rawlins, Up.4.2 
 10. Cedermarker, Srb.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 John FITZGERALD
  Malbas
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.2 
 2. Rawlins, Up.3.1 
 3. Wazzi, Nassjo3.0 
 4. Strazdauskas, Hog.2.9 
 5. Feghadu, Jarva D.2.8 
 6. Hultman-Boye, Hag.2.5 
 7. Kutra, Hoganas2.5 
 8. Taylor, Eagles2.5 
 9. Dawit, Fryshuset2.3 
 10. Svedas, Srbija2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Rikard FLINK
  Helsingborg
  (200-F-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Flink, Helsingborg2.1 
 2. Robinson, Brahe B.2.0 
 3. Rawlins, Up.1.7 
 4. Bergstrom, Black.1.7 
 5. Taylor, Eagles1.7 
 6. Femic, Eagles1.5 
 7. Isaksson, BG Lulea1.2 
 8. Sinani, Malbas1.1 
 9. Neffati, Norrkopi.1.1 
 10. Schuszler, Black.1.1 


Basketligan Quarterfinals: Norrkoping and LF Basket take 2-1 lead - by Eurobasket News

Norrkoping and LF Basket managed to beat their rivals in third games of the Basketligan Quarterfinals. Both squads have 2-1 lead now and they need one more for the Semis. Fourth games are scheduled for Friday. Uppsala handed 93-78 loss to Boras tying the score to 1-1. They will meet tomorrow in Game Three.

Norrkoping - 08 77-67 (2-1)
The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Norrkoping Dolphins made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 24 08 Stockholm turnovers. It was a good game for the former international forward Martin Ringstrom (206-F-81) who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Latvian point guard Edgard Jeromanovs (186-PG-86) contributed with 12 points and 4 steals for the winners. Icelandic swingman Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, college: Catawba) answered with 17 points and the former international center Johan Akesson (210-C-84) added 12 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for 08 Stockholm. 08 Stockholm's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Norrkoping: M.Ringstrom 17+5reb+2ast, E.Jeromanovs 12+3reb+3ast, A.Saks 9+5reb+1ast, G.Watt 9+4reb+2ast, A.Mitchell 8+2reb+4ast, P.Sakinis 6
08: H.Magnusson 17+4reb+1ast, J.Akesson 12+8reb+1ast, J.Blom 12+4reb+1ast, O.Ilunga 9+6reb+3ast, G.Nystrom 8+4reb+4ast, N.Hedstrom 5+4reb+2ast

Sundsvall - LF Basket 87-89 OT (1-2)
Overtime win for LF basket, who got 15 points from Rudy Mbemba (184-G-87). Marcus Relphorde (200-F-88, college: Colorado) and Keith Ramsey (205-F-87, college: Missouri) followed him with 13 pts each. In defeat, Mark Tyndale (196-G-86, college: Temple) scored 23 points.
LF Basket: R.Mbemba 15+4reb+11ast, M.Relphorde 13+3reb+2ast, K.Ramsey 13+9reb+1ast, E.Salon 13+2reb+1ast, U.Igbavboa 13+2reb+2ast, M.Poscic 10+8reb
Sundsvall: M.Tyndale 23+3reb+1ast, J.Sigurdarson 18+4reb+1ast, H.Baeringsson 18+16reb+2ast, D.Gregory 12+1reb, P.Ermolinskij 7+6reb+1ast, T.Liden 6+2reb

Uppsala - Boras 93-78 (1-1)
The game was mostly controlled by Uppsala Basket. Boras Basket was better in second period 15-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Uppsala Basket forced 19 Boras Basket turnovers. The former international swingman Johan Jeansson (197-G/F-85) scored 27 points to lead the charge for the winners and American power forward Delvon Johnson (206-F/C-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arkansas) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. The former international center Michael Palm (208-C-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: W.Washington) responded with 24 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Christopher McKnight (201-F-87, college: Akron) scored 28 points.
Uppsala: J.Jeansson 27+4reb+2ast, D.Johnson 18+9reb, R.Carter 15+2reb+6ast, O.Lindell 8+11reb, S.Grundberg 8+5reb+1ast, M.Nakos 7+1reb+1ast
Boras: C.McKnight 28+4reb+2ast, M.Palm 24+9reb+2ast, R.Zamroz 8+2reb+3ast, O.Krayem 7+5reb+4ast, J.Thomas 6+5reb+1ast, M.Paravinja 5+3reb


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Standings - LNA

LNA Standings
 1. Lugano Tigers 20-4
 2. Monthey 19-5
 3. Geneve Lions 18-6
 4. Fribourg 17-7
 5. SAV Vacallo 13-10
 6.