Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/3/2012

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Standings

Adriatic League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A			19-1
2. Cedevita			17-4
3. Partizan			16-6
4. Buducnost			14-6
5. Siroki WWin			13-9
6. Cibona			11-10
7. KK Zagreb CO			11-10
8. Union Olimpija			11-10
9. Radnicki K.			10-11
10. Crvena Zvezda			9-13
11. Krka			5-16
12. Helios			5-16
13. Hemofarm			5-17
14. Zlatorog			2-19

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 20.2

1. Simon, Radnicki K.	20.2
2. Scott, Radnicki K.	18.1
3. Kasun, KK.	17.6
4. Panic, Zlatorog	17.5
5. Vucevic, Buducnost	16.9
6. Simon, KK.	16.7
7. Pilepic, Siroki W.	15.4
8. Pavkovic, Radnicki	13.9
9. Gay, Helios	13.8
10. Pasalic, Helios	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Boris SAVOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Savovic, Hemofarm	11.4
2. Vucevic, Buducnost	9.7
3. Macvan, Partizan	8.4
4. Kasun, KK.	8.0
5. Simon, Radnicki K.	6.9
6. Pasalic, Helios	6.2
7. Pavic, Krka	6.1
8. Thompson, Union O.	5.6
9. Scott, Radnicki K.	5.6
10. Collins, Siroki W.	5.6

Assists Per Game

Steven MARKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (190-G-85)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Markovic, Radnicki	7.5
2. Pavkovic, Radnicki	6.5
3. Vladovic, Siroki W.	5.1
4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	4.9
5. Nissim, Krka	4.6
6. Mulaomerovic, KK Z.	4.5
7. Papaloukas, Macca.	4.2
8. Simon, KK.	3.9
9. Draper, Cedevita	3.6
10. Popovic, Crvena Z.	3.5

Steals Per Game

D.J. GAY
  Helios
  (183-G-89)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Gay, Helios	2.2
2. Papaloukas, Macca.	1.8
3. Simon, KK.	1.8
4. Markovic, Radnicki	1.8
5. Dragic, Krka	1.7
6. Dasic, Union Olimp.	1.6
7. Ramljak, Siroki W.	1.6
8. Draper, Cedevita	1.5
9. Zubcic, Cibona	1.5
10. Lucic, Partizan	1.4

Blocks Per Game

David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Simon, Radnicki K.	1.5
2. James, Maccabi T-A	1.5
3. Vucevic, Buducnost	1.1
4. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.0
5. Savovic, Hemofarm	1.0
6. Rizvic, Buducnost	1.0
7. Thompson, Union O.	0.9
8. Ilic, Crvena Zvezda	0.9
9. Pekovic, Partizan	0.8
10. Scott, Radnicki K.	0.8

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ALBANIA

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

Group A
1. SK Tirana		9-0
2. Kamza Basket		7-2
3. Vllaznia Shk.		5-4
4. Flamurtari		4-5
5. Teuta Durres		2-7
6. U.A.T.		0-9
Group B
1. Apolonia		3-0
2. Partizani Tirana		2-2
3. Pogradeci		0-3

Best performance of Albanian players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Albanian players who are playing abroad.

There are also other players who performed very well, but have never been selected to any national team and who carry Albanian passport:

#1. Ljeko Nicaj (210-C-87), who plays in the Montenegrin 1A could not help KK Podgorica (7-9) to beat Sutjeska despite his very good performance on Thursday. He was the top scorer with 19 points. Nicaj also added 6 rebounds and made 4 blocks in 37 minutes. But KK Podgorica (#7) was crushed 65-90 on the road by the higher-ranked (#4) Sutjeska. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Nicaj is ranked eighth on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has very impressive stats this year: 16.0ppg, 8.3rpg and 2.4bpg in the 14 games he played so far. Nicaj has a dual citizenship: Albanian and Montenegrin.

#2. Nderim Pelaj (179-G-88), who plays in the German ProB (third division) could not help Dorsten (14-10) to beat SC Rasta Vechta. He scored 6 points. the sixth-placed BG Dorsten (14-10) was crushed 81-102 at home by the higher-ranked (#3) SC Rasta Vechta in the Group North. It was Dorsten''s first loss after three consecutive victories. The Regular Season already ended. It''s Pelaj''s eighth season with the team. Pelaj has relatively good stats this season: 11.7ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.5apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Albanian and German.

Other top Albanian players, who play abroad:

Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80) plays for Anadolu Efes in the Turkish TBL
Erjon Kastrati (197-F/G-94) plays for Union Olimpija in the Slovenian Telemach League
Mike Moten (203-C-71) plays for s Oliver Baskets in the German BBL
Klaudio Ndoja (200-G/F-85) plays for Enel Brindisi in the Italian Lega2
Gerti Shima (205-F/C-86) plays for Capljina Lasta in the Bosnia and Herzegovina D1
Franko Bushati (188-G-85) plays for Centrale Latte in the Italian Lega2
Greg Butler (C-66) plays for Ovarense in the Portuguese LPB
Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) plays for EnBW Ludwigsburg in the German BBL
Mergin Sina (198-F-67) plays for CAB Madeira in the Portuguese LPB
Agi Imbeza (212-C-81) plays for Marousi in the Greek A1
Shkelzen Bekteshi (185-G-91) plays for Kirchheim Knights in the German ProA
Dennis Hatzi (203-F-87) plays for Panelefsiniakos in the Greek A2
Grigoris Pappas (205-C/F-91) plays for Panerythraikos in the Greek A2

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

Tirana improved to 9-0 record - by Eurobasket News
Tirana improved to 9-0 record on top of the league. The team edged Teuta 99:64 in the latest game. Basket Kamza meanwhile moved to 7-2 record beating UAT 74:69. Flamurtari overcame Vllaznia 80:69 to take 4-5 record, while the losing side fell at 5-4.

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ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

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

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AUSTRALIA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Breakers		17-6
2. Wildcats		16-8
3. Taipans		14-10
4. Blaze		13-9
5. Crocodiles		13-11
6. Tigers		11-14
7. Kings		9-15
8. 36ers		7-16
9. Hawks		6-17

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

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

1. Mills, Tigers	18.6
2. Lisch, Wildcats	17.3
3. Tragardh, Tigers	17.2
4. Wilson, Taipans	16.7
5. Johnson, 36ers	16.4
6. Khazzouh, Kings	16.3
7. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.0
8. Worthington, Blaze	16.0
9. Deleon, Blaze	15.7
10. Warren, 36ers	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Khazzouh, Kings	11.0
2. Holmes, Crocodiles	9.6
3. Simpsons, 36ers	8.2
4. Grant, Kings	8.2
5. Johnson, 36ers	7.9
6. Crosswhite, Taipa.	7.8
7. Worthington, Blaze	6.7
8. Vukona, Breakers	6.5
9. Jackson, Breakers	6.3
10. Bose, Kings	6.1

Assists Per Game

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

1. Jackson, Breakers	6.1
2. Mills, Tigers	5.0
3. Crosswell, 36ers	4.7
4. Gibson, Blaze	4.6
5. Bruce, Kings	4.4
6. Gill, Crocodiles	4.1
7. Martin, Wildcats	3.6
8. Martin, Hawks	3.5
9. Ubaka, Tigers	3.3
10. Crosswhite, Taipa.	3.2

Steals Per Game

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

1. Jackson, Breakers	2.5
2. Martin, Wildcats	2.4
3. Robbins, Wildcats	1.8
4. Deleon, Blaze	1.4
5. Mims, Crocodiles	1.4
6. Tovey, Wildcats	1.3
7. Gill, Crocodiles	1.3
8. Glover, Hawks	1.2
9. Gibson, Blaze	1.2
10. Crawford, Croco.	1.1

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Khazzouh, Kings	2.1
2. Simpsons, 36ers	1.6
3. Grant, Kings	1.5
4. Nevill, Wildcats	1.2
5. Johnson, 36ers	1.1
6. Abercrombie, Break.	1.1
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.0
8. Martin, Wildcats	0.9
9. Worthington, Blaze	0.9
10. Pledger, Breakers	0.8

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Muharraq		17-1
2. Al Manama		15-4
3. Al Ahli		14-5
4. Al Hala		12-7
5. Issa Town		12-7
6. Sitra		11-8
7. Nuwaidrat		8-10
8. Al Ittihad		8-10
9. Bahrain Club		3-16
10. Al Najma		2-17
11. Samaheej		1-18

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Round 19: Triumph edge Tartu Ulikool in low-scoring battle - by Eurobasket News
Naglis Palangos (6-5) made lots of trouble for Lietkabelis (11-2) in Palanga on Friday. The visitors from Panevezys managed to secure only one-point victory 63-62. The victory put Lietkabelis closer to the Challenge Cup Finals. Naglis Palangos were trailing by 7 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 18-15 charge of Lietkabelis, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Naglis Palangos' 36. Center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-89, agency: Interperformances) fired 22 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Vaidotas Peciukas (199-82, college: Hawaii) produced 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The second game of the semifinal series is scheduled for March 13th.
One of the most interesting games of round 19 was a derby match between two teams from Lithuania. First ranked Siauliai won against visiting Rudupis (11-7) 80-71. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Arvydas Siksnius contributed with 20 points (perfect from the field making all six shots) for the winners. Forward Povilas Butkevicius (203-87) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds for Rudupis. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Siauliai maintains first place in 1 with 15-3 record. Rudupis at the other side keep the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Kalev/Cramo. Siauliai will play against league's second-placed Triumph Lyubertsy in Lubertsy in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Rudupis will play on the road against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
One of the most interesting games of round 19 was a derby match between two teams from Lithuania. The game took place in Utena where seventh ranked Juventus outleveled visiting Baltai Kaunas (4-14) 86-67. It was a great evening for Zydrunas Urbonas who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. At the losing side Jonas Maciulis responded with 16 points. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Juventus maintains seventh place in 1 with 9-10 record. Loser Baltai Kaunas keep the tenth position with 14 games lost. Juventus will meet league's second-placed Triumph Lyubertsy in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Baltai Kaunas will play against Pieno Zvaigzdes (#8) in Pasvalys and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 19 In 1 Tartu Ulikool were defeated by Triumph in Lubertsy 58-50.

Triumph - Tartu Ulikool 58-50

There was no surprise in Lubertsy where 9th ranked Estonian Tartu Ulikool (6-13) was defeated by second ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy (13-4) 58-50 on Thursday. Tartu Ulikool trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 15-8 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 50-58 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Tartu Ulikool 39-12 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for Serbian forward Lazar Trifunovic (203-F-87, college: Radford) who led his team to a victory scoring 13 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Victor Zvarykin (198-86) helped adding 14 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side guard Valmo Kriisa (190-74) responded with 10 points and center Vallo Allingu (206-78) scored 12 points. Tartu Ulikool's coach Gert Kullamae rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Triumph Lyubertsy have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place in 1 with 13-4 record having just three points less than leader Siauliai. Loser Tartu Ulikool keeps the ninth position with 13 games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will meet at home league's leader Siauliai in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Tartu Ulikool will play against Rudupis (#4) in Prienai and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Triumph: V.Zvarykin 14+6reb+2ast, L.Trifunovic 13+9reb+1ast, E.Valiev 8+8reb, A.Razumov 7+4reb, G.Andreev 5+4reb+1ast, A.Kurtsevich 4+1reb
Tartu Ulikool: V.Allingu 12+2reb+2ast, V.Kriisa 10+3reb+3ast, M.Doronin 8+2ast, B.Amis 7+3reb+1ast, S.Leppik 6+2reb, T.Kurbas 5+2reb+1ast

Siauliai - Rudupis 80-71

One of the most interesting games of round 19 was a derby match between two teams from Lithuania. First ranked Siauliai won against visiting Rudupis (11-7) 80-71. It looked good early as Rudupis took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Siauliai had a 23-17 second period charge getting the lead and Rudupis were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 71-80. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Arvydas Siksnius (196-87, college: Weatherford JC) contributed with 20 points (perfect from the field making all six shots) for the winners. Four Siauliai players scored in double figures. Forward Povilas Butkevicius (203-87) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds and guard Arturas Milaknis (195-86) added 14 points in the effort for Rudupis. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Siauliai maintains first place in 1 with 15-3 record. Rudupis at the other side keep the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Kalev/Cramo. Siauliai will play against league's second-placed Triumph Lyubertsy in Lubertsy in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Rudupis will play on the road against Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Siauliai: A.Siksnius 20+4reb+1ast, V.Vasylius 18+4reb, R.Broadus 16+6reb+4ast, C.Long 10+5reb+2ast, M.Zukauskas 6+3ast, V.Liutych 4
Rudupis: P.Butkevicius 18+10reb, A.Milaknis 14+4reb+2ast, A.Juskevicius 9+1reb+2ast, E.Zelionis 7+2reb+1ast, A.Labuckas 7+6reb, G.Kadziulis 7+3reb+3ast

Juventus - Baltai Kaunas 86-67

One of the most interesting games of round 19 was a derby match between two teams from Lithuania. The game took place in Utena where seventh ranked Juventus outleveled visiting Baltai Kaunas (4-14) 86-67. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-67. Juventus made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for forward Zydrunas Urbonas (198-76) who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Darius Pakamanis (193-81) helped adding 11 points and 8 rebounds. Five Juventus players scored in double figures. At the losing side swingman Jonas Maciulis (198-85) responded with 16 points and guard Zygimantas Janavicius (192-89, agency: Interperformances) scored 6 points and 6 assists. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Juventus maintains seventh place in 1 with 9-10 record. Loser Baltai Kaunas keep the tenth position with 14 games lost. Juventus will meet league's second-placed Triumph Lyubertsy in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Baltai Kaunas will play against Pieno Zvaigzdes (#8) in Pasvalys and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Juventus: Z.Urbonas 16+6reb+4ast, G.Maceina 12+4reb+3ast, K.Petrukonis 12+8reb, D.Pakamanis 11+8reb+2ast, Z.Sestokas 10+2reb+2ast, R.Gumeniuk 9
Baltai Kaunas: J.Maciulis 16+4reb+2ast, M.Delas 9+5reb, M.Kupsas 8+3reb, K.Vecvagars 7, V.Cizauskas 6+3reb+2ast, Z.Janavicius 6+4reb+6ast

Semifinal Challenge Cup

Naglis Palangos - Lietkabelis 62-63

Naglis Palangos (6-5) made lots of trouble for Lietkabelis (11-2) in Palanga on Friday. The visitors from Panevezys managed to secure only one-point victory 63-62 taking a step towards Challenge Cup Finals. Naglis Palangos were trailing by 7 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 18-15 charge of Lietkabelis, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Naglis Palangos' 36. Center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-89, agency: Interperformances) fired 22 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Vaidotas Peciukas (199-82, college: Hawaii) produced 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and point guard Tomas Rinkevicius (178-78) added 12 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The second game of the series is scheduled for March 13th.
Top scorers:
Lietkabelis: V.Cepukaitis 22+7reb, S.Vasiliauskas 11+5reb+3ast, G.Staniulis 11+4reb, A.Drungilas 8+4reb+1ast, S.Kulevicius 4+5reb+4ast, J.Zurna 4+2reb+1ast
Naglis Palangos: T.Rinkevicius 12+4reb+1ast, V.Peciukas 11+6reb+4ast, A.Montrimavicius 10+5reb, M.Mockevicius 8+8reb, R.Pickett 7+3reb+2ast, D.Johnson 7+7reb+2ast

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Bowles, Siauliai	19.3
2. Krumins, Jelgava	19.1
3. Kalve, Valmiera	18.0
4. Cipruss, Tarvas	16.9
5. Barinov, Naglis P.	16.5
6. Pilk, TTU	16.4
7. Mayo, Liepaja	16.2
8. Hallik, Tarvas	15.5
9. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	15.5
10. Young, Ventspils	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

David MCCLURE
  Kedainiai
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 9.7

1. McClure, Kedainiai	9.7
2. McClure, Kedainiai	9.3
3. Cipruss, Tarvas	9.1
4. Ringmets, Rapla	8.6
5. Mednis, Turiba	8.0
6. Johnson, Naglis P.	7.7
7. Arnold, TTU	7.7
8. Bowles, Siauliai	7.4
9. Galdikas, Neptunas	7.1
10. Barinov, Naglis P.	7.1

Assists Per Game

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

1. Vasiliauskas, Liet.	5.5
2. Broadus, Siauliai	4.9
3. Kriisa, Tarvas	4.6
4. Sirsnins, Tarvas	4.5
5. Dainys, Neptunas	4.3
6. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
7. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	4.2
8. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	4.2
9. Benn, Naglis Palan.	4.2
10. Maceina, Juventus	4.1

Steals Per Game

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

1. McKee, Triumph	2.8
2. Sirsnins, Tarvas	2.7
3. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
4. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
5. Akenparg, TTU	1.8
6. Laane, Rapla	1.8
7. Keedus, TTU	1.8
8. Virsis, Valmiera	1.8
9. Hughes, Pieno Z.	1.7
10. Janavicius, Balta.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	2.7
2. Rozitis, Valmiera	2.1
3. Gumeniuk, Juventus	1.7
4. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.7
5. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
6. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.2
7. Morgan, Pieno Z.	1.1
8. Leiteris, Liepaja	1.0
9. Soloviev, Triumph	1.0
10. McClure, Kedainiai	0.9

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Siauliai			15-3
2. Triumph			13-4
3. Ventspils			11-6
4. Rudupis			11-7
5. Kalev/Cramo			11-7
6. Kedainiai			9-9
7. Juventus			9-10
8. Pieno Zvaigzdes			7-10
9. Tartu Ulikool			6-13
10. Baltai Kaunas			4-14
11. Liepaja			3-16
Challenge Cup
1. Tarvas			10-2
2. Neptunas			6-4
3. Naglis Palangos			6-5
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-7
5. Jelgava			1-7
6. Lietkabelis			11-2
7. Sakalai			9-5
8. Valmiera			8-4
9. TTU			3-9
10. Rapla			2-8
11. Turiba			2-8

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BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Spirou		14-6
2. Oostende		13-6
3. Aalstar		12-7
4. Antwerp		11-6
5. Leuven		11-8
6. M.Hainaut		9-10
7. Liege		7-12
8. Gent		5-14
9. Verviers-Pep.		3-16

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Copeland, Aalstar	20.3
2. Bostic, Liege	17.2
3. Mallet, Spirou	16.3
4. Rich, Oostende	15.7
5. Lojeski, Oostende	15.0
6. Green, Spirou	14.6
7. Taylor, M.Hainaut	14.4
8. Black, Antwerp	14.1
9. Haynes, Gent	13.9
10. Freeman, Leuven	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Graham BROWN
  Gent
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Brown, Gent	8.5
2. Love, Verviers-Pep.	7.9
3. Mejri, Antwerp	7.4
4. McLean, Leuven	7.2
5. Young, Aalstar	7.1
6. Merriex, Verviers.	7.0
7. Booker, Oostende	6.3
8. Wright, Oostende	6.1
9. Green, Spirou	5.8
10. Matela, Liege	5.8

Assists Per Game

Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Waters, Liege	3.8
2. Wisniewski, Spirou	3.7
3. Djordjevic, Ooste.	3.6
4. Bosco, Gent	3.5
5. Marnegrave, Leuven	3.3
6. Black, Antwerp	3.2
7. Thompson, Verviers.	3.1
8. Winston, Oostende	3.0
9. Singletary, M.Hain.	3.0
10. Rich, Oostende	2.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Singletary, M.Hain.	2.5
2. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.4
3. Black, Antwerp	2.4
4. Wilson, Antwerp	2.3
5. Mallet, Spirou	1.9
6. Mukubu, Verviers.	1.9
7. Steinbach, Aalstar	1.8
8. Ruoff, Aalstar	1.8
9. Wright, Oostende	1.7
10. Bostic, Liege	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Mejri, Antwerp	2.5
2. Riddick, Spirou	1.8
3. Jennings, Liege	1.5
4. Young, Aalstar	1.1
5. Booker, Oostende	0.9
6. Love, Verviers-Pep.	0.9
7. Holiday, Aalstar	0.6
8. Copeland, Aalstar	0.6
9. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.6
10. Vaughn, Antwerp	0.5

Mons-Hainaut News - by Peter Buyse
No more Warren Carter at Mons-Hainaut this season. The player and team reached an agreement and he was released for personal reasons according to the team's press release. They also announced that they are looking for a player to cover the 4/5 spot.

The team has also announced their new team name now that their main sponsor Dexia changed its name.
As of now the team will be known as Belfius Mons-Hainaut. A new 3 year deal with the sponsor was also announced.

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BOSNIA

D1: Round 22 review - by Eurobasket News
Round 22 of the Bosnian D1 for men was played on Wednesday and Thursday. The top-ranked Igokea was free in this round. Capljina managed to beat Celik on the road 72-84 for 16-5 record in the league. Jozo Brkic (211-F/C-86, agency: Interperformances) had 23 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Marko Jagodic Kuridza (204-C-87) also was great adding 21 points and 16 boards. Very important game was played in Visegrad, where Varda handed 74-67 loss to Bosna ASA BHT. Ivan Miceta (205-FC-81, agency: 011 Sports) was a key player for the hosts with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Their second scorer was Nenad Djurdjevic (180-PG-87) with 11 points (5 as). In defeat, Dzenan Rahimic (204-C/F-74) shined with 28 points and 12 boards. Varda improved to 13-7, while Bosna dropped t 15-5 score. Round 23 is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.

Regular Season - Round 22
Feb. 28, 2012 Celik-Capljina 72-84
Feb. 28, 2012 Servitium-Brotnjo 92-59
Feb. 29, 2012 Varda HE-Bosna 74-67
Feb. 29, 2012 Borac Nektar-Hercegovac 82-70
Feb. 28, 2012 Zrinjski HT-Vogosca 103-82
Feb. 29, 2012 Mladost-Leotar 71-59

D1 Standings
1. Igokea 19-1
2. Capljina 16-5
3. Bosna 15-5
4. Varda HE 13-7
5. Mladost 12-9
6. Leotar 11-9
7. Servitium 9-11
8. Hercegovac 8-12
9. Borac Nektar 7-13
10. Zrinjski HT 7-14
11. Vogosca 5-15
12. Celik 5-15
13. Brotnjo 5-16

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BRAZIL

Guilherme Freitas doing good in Spain - by Paulo Freire
The brazilian point guard Guilherme de Souza (185-G-84) who used to be a top prospect player as a younger, has move to spain to follow his dreams in basketball.
After having a great season in Flamengo in 2005 and a good one in Telemar in 2006 Guilherme probably has made wrong decisions regarding the teams he played next.
Now he is showing his talent at a low level in Spain to get his feet wet overseas and seems to be doing great at the Baloncesto Coria at the city of Coria del Rio (Sevilla)

Guilherme is looking forward to move to the next level in spain and go to a higher league.

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. S.Jose/Unimed		17-4
2. Pinheiros/Sky		17-5
3. Flamengo		15-4
4. Uniceub/BRB		15-6
5. Unitri/Universo		15-7
6. Paulistano		14-7
7. Itabom/Bauru		13-7
8. Winner/Limeira		10-11
9. Cia do Terno		9-11
10. Liga Sorocaba		8-13
11. Vivo/Franca		7-12
12. Minas		7-14
13. Tijuca TC		7-15
14. Araraquara		2-20
15. Vila Velha		1-21

Uniceub/BRB hold off Pinheiros/Sky - by Eurobasket News
Uniceub/BRB celebrated the 15th win in the season. They toppled the league leading Pinheiros/Sky 86:75 at home court. Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) accounted for 26 points and 6 assists to lead the charge. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) added 22 points for the winners. Uniceub/BRB got to a strong start. They grabbed a 23:16 lead after ten minutes. The visitors cut the deficit to 4 points at halftime but a 20:12 run from the hosts in the third term allowed them to cruise to the victory at the end. Olivinha Rodriguez (202-F-83) and Marquinhos Vieira (207-F-84) posted 20 points each for Pinheiros/Sky.
Itabom/Bauru left no chance for Winner/Limeira at home court 99:79. Fernando Fischer (190-G-81) knocked down 27 points, while Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) added 24 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists to pace Itabom/Bauru to the 13th win. Arlindo Neto (187-G-86) replied with 13 points for Winner/Limeira.
Sao Jose/Unimed jumped on top of the standings following a comfortable 102:86 home win over Uberlandia. Murilo Becker (210-C/F-83) stepped up with 26 points to lead the effort. Sao Jose/Unimed led from start to finish in this one. Jefferson Antonio (207-F/C-83) contributed 17 points in the winning case. Uberlandia answered with 24 points from Lucas Cipolini (206-F/C-86, college: BYU-Hawaii).

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Ray Victor in NAIA field of 32 - by David Edole
KANSAS CITY, Mo.-- The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has officially released the field of 32 teams for the 21st Annual Division II Mens Basketball National Championship. The event will be held for the 13th-straight time in Point Lookout, Mo., on the campus of College of the Ozarks from March 7-13. For the first time since the 2002-03 season, the Warner University Royals earned a berth in the National Tournament and will compete for a National Title. The Royals were awarded the third at-large berth and the No. 15 overall seed after posting 23-10 record thus far this season. In their opening round game the Royals will face Indiana University East on Thursday, March 8th, at 2:45 p.m. (EST).

Overall three teams will represent The Sun Conference in the 32-team field. Regular season and conference tournament champions Northwood University earned the conferences automatic berth. The Seahawks, who held onto the top spot in the national poll for the eighth time this season, were named the tournaments overall No. 1 seed and will take on hosts-College of the Ozarks in the first round.

Also joining the Royals, No. 12 St. Thomas University earned the first at-large berth and will take on Indiana Tech in their first round matchup.

Earlier Wednesday afternoon the Royals moved up three spots to 17th in the final Coaches Top 25 Poll. The Royals advanced to The Sun Conference tournament championship game last week before losing to top-seeded and No. 1 Northwood University 77-68. During their tournament run the Royals defeated Ave Maria University in the quarterfinals and upset then-No. 11 St. Thomas University in the semifinals.

The Royals are making their fourth National Tournament appearance and their first under head coach Sean Hanrahan. As a program the Royals have posted a 7-3 record in their three previous trips; most recently in 2002-03, under the leadership of head coach Kory Bays, Warner advanced to the Final Four before being eliminated by Bethany College (Kan.) 74-69.

The Indiana University Red Wolves are making their second consecutive appearance in the national tournament. The Red Wolves qualified for their first ever National Tournament last season but were eliminated in the first round by Indiana Wesleyan 95-92. This year the Red Wolves earned the sixth at-large berth after a 24-7 season and a runner-up finish in the Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

The Royals and Red Wolves have played each other just one time over the last 11 seasons. In the 2009-10 season the Royals traveled up to Cincinnati, Ohio to take part in the Cincinnati Christian Tip-off Classic. In their season opener the Royals defeated the Red Wolves 68-61. Senior David Westberry was one of three current Warner players to play in that game and finished with 13 points. Juniors Ian Wilhelm and Ray Victor saw time off the bench in the game and finished with 12 and two points respectively.

As the Royals now prepare to take the next step towards a National Championship, check back with www.warnerroyals.com for all tournament action and updates as they become available including how to watch/follow Warner's games.

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BULGARIA

Standings A1

NBL Standings

1. Lukoil Academik		17-2
2. Levski Sofia		16-4
3. Rilski Sportist		12-8
4. Tundja Yambol		11-8
5. Cherno More		9-10
6. Balkan		7-12
7. Spartak Pleven		3-16
8. Chernomorets		2-17

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Aaron HARPER
  Levski S.
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Harper, Levski S.	20.4
2. Durchev, Tundja Y.	19.2
3. Yanev, Cherno More	17.7
4. Stankov, Spartak	16.5
5. Vukosavljevi., Ril.	16.3
6. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	16.1
7. Dunovic, Chernomo.	15.8
8. Govedarov, Tundja	15.4
9. Pavlovski, Chernom.	14.8
10. Mirkovic, Rilski	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Vasil EVTIMOV
  Levski Sofia
  (207-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Evtimov, Levski So.	11.3
2. Pavlovski, Chernom.	10.2
3. Yanev, Cherno More	8.9
4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	8.9
5. Georgiev, Levski S.	7.0
6. Marojevic, Balkan	6.7
7. Marintchechk., Bal.	6.2
8. Tsenov, Spartak	6.2
9. Petkov, Tundja Y.	6.2
10. Vukosavljevi., Ri.	6.1

Assists Per Game

Brandon HEATH
  Lukoil A.
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Heath, Lukoil A.	5.8
2. Radionov, Tundja Y.	5.4
3. Dyakovski, Sparta.	5.0
4. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	4.9
5. Aleksiev, Cherno M.	4.3
6. Filipov, Balkan	4.1
7. Howell, Levski Sof.	3.9
8. Govedarov, Tundja	3.5
9. Zhelev, Cherno M.	3.2
10. Zahariev, Rilski	3.1

Steals Per Game

Julian RADIONOV
  Tundja Y.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Radionov, Tundja Y.	2.6
2. Heath, Lukoil A.	2.3
3. Roshmanov, Cherno.	2.3
4. Dunovic, Chernomo.	2.0
5. Harper, Levski S.	1.9
6. Howell, Levski Sof.	1.9
7. Marinov, Balkan	1.8
8. Mirkovic, Rilski S.	1.8
9. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	1.7
10. Durchev, Tundja Y.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Josh CRAWFORD
  Balkan
  (211-C-88)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Crawford, Balkan	1.4
2. Pavlovski, Chernom.	1.1
3. Banev, Lukoil A.	0.9
4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.	0.9
5. Martin, Balkan	0.8
6. Petkov, Tundja Y.	0.8
7. Marojevic, Balkan	0.7
8. Gocevski, Tundja Y.	0.6
9. Sundov, Lukoil A.	0.5
10. Marinov, Balkan	0.5

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CANADA

Power playoff dreams end losing 113-99 against the Mill Rats - by Eurobasket News
Durham's team the Oshawa Power went down to a determined Saint John Mill Rats squad 113-99, ending the Power's quest to qualify for the playoffs in the NBL Canada's inaugural season.

The Mill Rats came flying out the gate in this one, taking a 34-24 lead after the first quarter. The second frame was no kinder to the visiting Power as Saint John put up another 34 points to lead it convincingly 68-43 at the half.

The Power had a solid third quarter scoring 26 points but the Rats did not let up, pouring in 28 points of their own to lead it 96-69 after 3. The Power fought valiantly to the finish, closing the gap via a 30-17 fourth quarter victory. But it wasn't the Power's night as the Mill Rats will advance to the playoffs to face the London Lightning, with the first game taking place next Tuesday in Saint John.

The Power were led by the NBL Canada's leading scorer, Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.) who poured in a game-high 24 points to go with 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Rick Bodiford (6'4''-G-87, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Indiana SE) came up with a gem scoring 19 points, dishing out 5 assists while pulling down 8 rebounds. York University alum Tut Ruach scored 7 points and chipped in 6 assists.

'It hurts, especially to lose the way we did,' said Ruach. 'We're a much better team than we showed tonight and that's the most disappointing part about it.'

The Mill Rats were led by Jermaine Blackburn's (6'7''-G/F-83, college: Boise St.) 22 points. Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) recorded a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds for Saint John as well.

The Power will now finish out the season on the road Friday night against Summerside Storm at 6:30 p.m. e.s.t. A win by the Power would knot the season series at 3 games apiece.

Power Glance

Record: 14-21

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Tristan Thompson - top Canadian player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Canadian players who are playing abroad.

Tristan Thompson

#1. This week''s number one is former international forward Tristan Thompson (203-91, college: Texas). Thompson contributed to a Cleveland Cavaliers'' victory against the Sacramento Kings 93-92 in the NBA last Sunday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 12 rebounds. Thompson also added 12 rebounds and 3 blocks. ; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only his third season in pro basketball. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a solid 13-20 record this season. This season Thompson averages: 7.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 44.3% and FT: 45.6%. He played for the Canadian senior national team three years ago.

Steve Nash

#2. Second place goes to former international point guard Steve Nash (190-74, college: Santa Clara). Nash contributed to a Phoenix Suns'' victory against the Washington Wizards 104-88 in the NBA last Monday. He had a double-double by scoring 12 points and making 11 passes. Nash also added 7 rebounds in 28 minutes. The Phoenix Suns have a solid 15-20 record this season. It''s Nash''s eighth year with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 13.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 11.1apg, 2FGP: 59.1%(139-235), 3FGP: 39.8% and FT: 86.1% in the 32 games he played so far. Nash played for the Canadian national team in 2003.

Garry Gallimore

#3. The player who performed third best last week was former international guard Garry Gallimore (192-84). He led CSM Bucuresti to a victory over the ninth-ranked Pitesti 84-77 in the Romanian Div.A last Wednesday. Gallimore was MVP of the game. He recorded 29 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 7 assists. CS Municipal Bucuresti (15-7) is placed fourth in the Div.A. It was CSM Bucuresti''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. It''s Gallimore''s first season with the team. This season Gallimore has very high stats. he averages: 17.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 56.3%(98-174), 3FGP: 35.1% and FT: 81.2%. Gallimore has a dual citizenship: Jamaican and Jamaican as he used to play in Canada. He played for the Canadian national team five years ago.

Cory Joseph

#4. Point guard Cory Joseph (190-91, college: Texas), who plays in the NBA could not help the San Antonio Spurs (24-11) to beat the Portland Trail Blazers despite his very good performance on Tuesday. Joseph scored 13 points and added 3 assists in 37 minutes. But the San Antonio Spurs (24-11) were crushed 97-137 on the road by the Portland Trail Blazers. This year Joseph''s overall stats are: 2.0ppg and 1.3apg in the 22 games. He plays currently for the Canadian National Team.

Mike Tuck

#5. Former an international forward Mike Tuck (201-83, college: Loyola, MD) was the major contributor in a Sheffield One Health Sharks'' victory against the seventh-ranked Milton Keynes Lions 110-87 in the British BBL last Friday. Tuck recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 11 rebounds. Sheffield One Health Sharks (9-9) is placed sixth in the BBL. Tuck is currently third on the league''s list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.1ppg, 10.6rpg and 1.8apg.

Samuel Dalembert

#6. Center Samuel Dalembert (211-81, college: Seton Hall) contributed to a Houston Rockets'' victory against the Memphis Grizzlies 97-93 in the NBA last Monday. Dalembert recorded 9 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 20 minutes. The Houston Rockets have a very solid 21-15 record this season. It was Houston Rockets'' fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Dalembert''s total stats are: 7.2ppg, 7.4rpg and 1.9bpg in the 36 games. He is a former international player as he played for the Canadian senior team four years ago.

Willie Galick

#7. Former an international forward Willie Galick (203-87, college: CS Northridge) was not able to help Pertevniyal (10-16) in their game against Maliye Milli in the Turkish TB2L (second division) despite his very good performance on Wednesday. Galick had a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 11 rebounds in 35 minutes. ; not bad, considering it''s only his second season in pro basketball. But Pertevniyal Istanbul (#14) was badly defeated 64-81 at home by the much higher-ranked (#5) Maliye Milli. It was Pertevniyal''s third consecutive loss in a row. Galick averaged so far: 8.3ppg and 4.9rpg in the nine games.

Kyle Landry

#8. Power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona) contributed to a Triumph Lyubertsy''s victory against the leader Artland Dragons 87-70 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. He scored 5 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and dished 3 assists. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group L. Triumph Lyubertsy (3-3) is placed second. It was Triumph Lyubertsy''s third consecutive victory in a row. Landry''s team will play only one more game in the EuroChallenge Top 16. And that game will be critical. This season Landry has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg and 6.4rpg. He used to play for the Canadian national team back in 2009.

Jevohn Shepherd

#9. International forward Jevohn Shepherd (196-86, college: Michigan) was not able to secure a victory for Leiden (2-4) in their game against Ventspils in the EuroChallenge despite his good performance on Wednesday. Shepherd scored 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 29 minutes. But the fourth-placed Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (2-4) was edged 57-60 on their home court in Leiden by the leading Ventspils in the group I of EuroChallenge. It was Leiden''s third consecutive loss in a row. The Top 16 already ended in the EuroChallenge. : 8.5ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.2apg in the 11 games.

Jacob Doerksen

#10. Forward Jacob Doerksen (200-87, agency: Interperformances) contributed to an Hannover Tigers'' victory against the ninth-ranked BSV Wulfen 82-66 in the German ProB (third division) last Saturday. Doerksen scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. UBC Hannover Tigers (19-5) is placed first in Group North. The Regular Season already ended. Doerksen is currently second on the league''s list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Doerksen averages: 22.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2apg and 1.8spg. He is a former international player as three years ago he still played for the Canadian senior national team.

Olumuyiwa Famutimi

#11. Former an international swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-84, college: Arkansas) contributed to an Optimum TED''s victory against the 15th-ranked Pamukkale 77-67 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) last Wednesday. Famutimi scored 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 29 minutes. He has reliable stats this year: 11.6ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.3apg and 1.4spg in the 24 games.

Jermaine Anderson

#12. International guard Jermaine Anderson (188-83, college: Fordham) couldn''t help Buducnost (3-3) in their game against Spartak St.Petersburg in the Eurocup. He scored 8 points and added 3 assists. : 9.8ppg, 2.8rpg and 2.8apg.

Tristan Blackwood

#13. Former an international guard Tristan Blackwood (183-85) couldn''t help Phoenix Hagen (7-16) in their game against Bayern Muenchen in the German BBL despite his very good performance on Saturday. Blackwood was the second best scorer with 13 points in 29 minutes. : 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg and 2.0apg in the 23 games.

Joel Anthony

#14. International center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV) contributed to a Miami Heat''s victory against the New York Knicks 102-88 in the NBA last Thursday. He recorded only 0 points, 6 rebounds and 5 blocks. : 3.1ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.3bpg.

Philip Martin

   #15. Former an international forward Philip Martin (202-80, college: Hawaii) couldn''t help Sigma Barcellona (11-9) in their game against Trenkwalder RE in the Italian Lega2 (second division). Martin scored only 4 points, had 7 rebounds and made 2 blocks. : 7.7ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.4spg.

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

   #1. Matt Bonner (206-F-80, college: Florida) was the major contributor in a San Antonio Spurs'' victory against the Utah Jazz 106-102 in the NBA last Monday. He recorded 20 points in 31 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a very solid 24-11 record this season. It''s Bonner''s sixth year with the team. This year Bonner averages: 7.4ppg and 3.1rpg in the 35 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American.

   #2. Corey Muirhead (198-F-83, college: W.Carolina) was not able to help BK Pardubice (1-5) in their game against Baloncesto Fuenlabrada in the EuroChallenge despite his very good performance on Tuesday. Muirhead was the second best scorer with 13 points. He also added 5 rebounds. But the fourth-placed BK JIP Pardubice (1-5) was defeated 70-85 on the road by the leading Baloncesto Fuenlabrada in the group K of EuroChallenge. It was BK Pardubice''s third consecutive loss in a row. The Top 16 already ended in the EuroChallenge. This season Muirhead has relatively solid stats: 13.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg and 1.6spg. He has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Jamaican.

   #3. Stuart Turnbull (188-G-84) was the main contributor in an overtime Dragons Rhoendorf''s victory against the closely-ranked Hanau 91-87 in the German ProB (third division) last Saturday. He was the best player in that game. Turnbull scored 21 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Dragons Rhoendorf (13-9) is placed fifth in Group South. The Regular Season already ended. This season Turnbull has very high stats. he averages: 18.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.1apg and 2.4spg.

   #4. Ali Kanaan (205-C/F-85, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Mass.-Lowell) contributed to a Al Riyadi''s victory against the eighth-ranked Hoops Club 90-64 in the Lebanese Div.A last Wednesday. Kanaan recorded 7 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 20 minutes. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (17-1) is placed first in the Div.A. It was Al Riyadi''s 12th consecutive victory in a row. The Second Stage already ended. : 5.6ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.4apg in the 17 games. Kanaan is another player who holds two passports: Canadian and Lebanese. He previously played for the Lebanese National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the Canadian team.

   #5. Andrew Wedemire (198-G/F) was not able to secure a victory for Glasgow Rocks (11-9) in their game against Cheshire Jets in the British BBL despite his very good performance on Sunday. Wedemire was the top scorer with 20 points. But Glasgow Rocks (#5) was edged 78-80 at home by the lower-ranked (#8) Cheshire Jets. This season Wedemire has relatively solid stats: 10.5ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.7apg.

   #6. Ali Mahmoud (185-G-83) is a teammate of previously mentioned Ali Kanaan and both played together in the last Lebanese Div.A game. Mahmoud contributed to a Al Riyadi''s victory against the eighth-ranked Hoops Club 90-64. He recorded 9 points and added 6 assists in 23 minutes. Mahmoud is currently fifth on the league''s list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (fourth place). : 8.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 6.1apg and 2.6spg in the 16 games. He has both Canadian and Lebanese nationalities. Mahmoud previously played for the Lebanese National Team.

   #7. Courtney Small (191-G-88) contributed to a Worthing Thunder''s victory against the third-ranked Westminster Warriors 96-85 in the British EBL (second division) last Saturday. Small scored 25 points, grabbed 7 boards, dished 5 assists and stole 3 balls. Small is currently third on the league''s list of most steals. This season he has very high stats. Small averages: 16.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.9apg and 2.9spg.

   #8. Jasonn Hannibal (208-C, college: Portland) couldn''t help Polzela (8-9) in their game against Zlatorog in the Slovenian Telemach League despite his good performance on Tuesday. He was the second best scorer with 11 points. Hannibal also added 5 rebounds in 24 minutes. : 7.8ppg and 5.2rpg in the 17 games.

   #9. Sefton Barrett (196-SF-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan) couldn''t help Saint Vallier (10-13) in their game against Limoges CSP Elite in the French ProB (second division) despite his very good performance on Tuesday. He was the second best scorer with 15 points. Barrett also added 2 shots. His stats this season are: 11.1ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.6apg.

   #10. Stephen Janzen (191-G-82) contributed to an Hannover Tigers'' victory against the ninth-ranked BSV Wulfen 82-66 in the German ProB (third division) last Saturday. Janzen scored 13 points in 25 minutes. His stats this year are: 14.3ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.9apg in the 24 games. Janzen also holds two passports: Canadian and German.

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CHINA

CBA Round 5 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Xinjiang F.T. - DongGuan L. 109-88

Xinjiang Flying Tige forced 22 DongGuan Leopards turnovers and outrebounded them 49-33 including a 21-10 advantage in offensive rebounds. 25 personal fouls committed by DongGuan Leopards helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 43 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds for the winners and American-Nigerian power forward Ike Diogu (203-83, college: Arizona St.) chipped in 13 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 16 rebounds and Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) scored 29 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: P.Tim 43+15reb+1ast, C.Tal 14+1reb+1ast, D.Ike 13+8reb, X.GuoChong 10+7reb+1ast, M.Bateer 8+5reb+5ast, T.ZhengDong 8+7reb+1ast
DongGuan L.: A.Josh-Emmanuel 29+2reb, R.Shavlik 24+16reb+2ast, Z.Kai 11+2reb, Q.Biao 7+2reb+1ast, L.Muhao 7+2reb, H.Chih-Shan 5+2reb

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

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

1. Smith, Zhejiang C.	34.4
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	33.6
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	31.7
4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	29.1
5. Akognon, DongGuan.	28.2
6. McDonald, Fujian X.	27.6
7. Pickett, Xinjiang.	27.4
8. Roberson, Fujian XX	26.9
9. Chandler, Guangsha.	26.6
10. Mills, Xinjiang.	26.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Harvey, TianJin R.	14.6
2. Abbas, Fujian XX	14.5
3. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	13.9
4. Ramos, Guangsha L.	13.3
5. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	13.1
6. Hunter, Shandong	12.5
7. Lawal, Xinjiang.	12.3
8. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.2
9. Harris, Shanghai S.	12.2
10. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	11.9

Assists Per Game

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

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.3
2. Yang, Liaoning H.	6.5
3. Hudson, Qingdao DS	6.3
4. Marbury, Beijing	6.3
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	6.0
6. Brooks, Guandong	4.8
7. Mengke, Xinjiang.	4.5
8. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.4
9. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	4.3
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 DS	2.9
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	2.5
4. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.5
5. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.5
6. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.4
7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.4
8. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	2.4
9. Marbury, Beijing	2.2
10. Abbas, Fujian XX	2.1

Blocks Per Game

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

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

Xinjiang Defeats Dongguan to Reach Second Round - by Arthur Volbert
Pickett Tim (193-G/F-81, college: Florida St.) returned to the Xinjiang lineup with 43 points and 15 rebounds to lead the team into the second round of the playoffs. Xinjiang trounced Dongguan 109-88 to win its series 3-2. Xinjiang will face Guangdong on Sunday while Shanxi will take on Beijing.

Xirelijiang had 14 points and 3 steals for Xinjiang and the young guard is a key if Xinjiang is to defeat regular-season champion Guangdong. Ike Diogu had 13 points and 8 rebounds but fouled out in 25 minutes. Xu Guozhong had 10 points and 7 rebounds. Mengke Bateer had 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Tang Zhengdong had 8 points and 7 rebounds.

Josh Akognon scored 29 for Dongguan. Shavlik Randolph had 24 points and 16 rebounds. Zhang Kai scored 11 but fouled out in 31 minutes. Qiu Biao had 7 points and 2 rebounds. Young 7-2 Li Muhao had 7 points, 2 rebounds and a block, hitting 7 of 8 free throws. Li appears to be developing and we may begin to see big things from him next year. 7-3 Sun Zhe will probably be playing elseware.

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

CROATIA

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 21

1. Mimica, KK Split	21.0
2. Ross, Jolly	18.6
3. Ceskovic, Kvarner	18.5
4. Ciklic, Dubrovnik	17.4
5. Tomeljak, Svjet.	17.4
6. Vrbanc, Zadar	16.9
7. Simovic, Kvarner	15.2
8. Kruslin, Zabok	14.3
9. Grgat, Krizevci	13.9
10. Zitko, Krizevci	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Teo SIMOVIC
  Kvarner .
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Simovic, Kvarner	7.4
2. Ivanov, Zadar	7.4
3. Sobin, KK Split	7.2
4. Poscic, Svjetlost	7.0
5. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	6.7
6. Mrva, Jolly	6.6
7. Cinac, Kvarner 2010	6.4
8. Cakarun, Borik	6.2
9. Peraica, Darda	6.1
10. Krapic, Zadar	6.0

Assists Per Game

Ivan TOMELJAK
  Svjet.
  (194-G-79)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Tomeljak, Svjet.	6.3
2. Glavinic, Krizevci	5.6
3. Ross, Jolly	4.3
4. Ceskovic, Kvarner	3.7
5. Subotic, KK Split	3.1
6. Tomas, Zabok	2.8
7. Mimica, KK Split	2.8
8. Dosen, Dubrovnik	2.8
9. Salamun, Kvarner	2.7
10. Bubalo, Alkar Sinj	2.6

Steals Per Game

Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Ross, Jolly	3.3
2. Krapic, Zadar	2.1
3. Bicvic, Darda	2.0
4. Mimica, KK Split	1.8
5. Zadnik, Zadar	1.7
6. Salamun, Kvarner	1.6
7. Mrva, Jolly	1.6
8. Tomas, Zabok	1.5
9. Sobin, KK Split	1.5
10. Delas, Zadar	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Zeljko ZUPIC
  Alkar Sinj
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	1.2
2. Sarlija, Borik	1.1
3. Buva, Krizevci	1.1
4. Bubalo, Zabok	0.9
5. Vukovic, KK Split	0.9
6. Sobin, KK Split	0.8
7. Ridl, Darda	0.8
8. Cakarun, Borik	0.6
9. Ciklic, Dubrovnik	0.6
10. Kastropil, Zadar	0.6

A1 Standings

A1 Standings

1. Zadar		13-4
2. Jolly		12-4
3. KK Split		11-6
4. Zabok		10-6
5. Svjetlost		8-8
6. Kvarner 2010		8-9
7. Darda		7-9
8. Borik		7-10
9. Alkar Sinj		6-10
10. Krizevci		6-11
11. Dubrovnik		3-14
Play in international cups:
1. Cedevita		-
2. Cibona		-
3. KK Zagreb CO		-

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Top Czech Republic players abroad based on last week''s performance - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Czech Republic players who are playing abroad.

Ondrej Starosta

#1. The best performed Czech Republic player this week who plays abroad is former international center Ondrej Starosta (215-79), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). He could not help Grupo Iruna Navarra (15-10) to beat Leche Rio Breogan despite his very good performance on Saturday. Starosta was the top scorer with 25 points. He also added 6 rebounds in 28 minutes. But Grupo Iruna Navarra (#6) was defeated 71-78 on the road by the lower-ranked (#12) Leche Rio Breogan. Starosta is currently fifth on the league''s list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this year: 11.8ppg, 7.8rpg, 2FGP: 58.3%(133-228) and FT: 44.6% in the 25 games he played so far. Starosta played for the Czech Republic national team in 2008.

Jiri Welsch

#2. The second best is former international forward Jiri Welsch (201-80). He was not able to help Spirou Charleroi (13-6) in their game against Antwerp Giants in the Belgian D1 despite his very good performance on Friday. Welsch was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 3 assists in 32 minutes. But Belgacom Spirou (#2) was edged 65-68 in Antwerp by the lower-ranked (#4) Antwerp Giants. This year Welsch averages: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 44.2%, 3FGP: 22.2% and FT: 71.8% in the 19 games. He played for the Czech Republic national team two years ago.

Lubos Barton

#3. Number three best Czech Republic player abroad this week is an international swingman Lubos Barton (202-80, college: Valparaiso). He contributed to a FIATC Joventut''s victory against the 17th-ranked Asefa Estudiantes 71-56 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. Barton scored only 3 points, had 6 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 24 minutes. FIATC Joventut Badalona (8-13) is placed 14th in the ACB. Barton is currently a member of the senior Czech Republic National Team.

Tomas Hampl

#4. Center Tomas Hampl (215-88) was not able to secure a victory for Cibona (11-10) in their game against Partizan in the Adriatic League. He scored 5 points. the sixth-placed KK Cibona VIP Zagreb (11-10) was defeated in an overtime 77-83 at home by the higher-ranked (#3) Partizan in the group A of Adriatic League. It was Cibona''s first loss after three consecutive victories. Hampl''s overall stats this season are: 3.5ppg and 2.5rpg. He plays currently for the Czech Republic National Team.

Tomas Voslajer

#5. International center Tomas Voslajer (212-90) contributed to a Prievidza''s victory against the fifth-ranked Svit 103-67 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Saturday. He recorded only 3 points. BC Prievidza (22-9) is placed first in the Extraliga. It was Prievidza''s third consecutive victory in a row. Voslajer''s team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. It''s Voslajer''s first season with the team. His overall stats this season are: 4.3ppg and 2.6rpg.

Jan Vesely

#6. Forward Jan Vesely (211-90) couldn''t help the Washington Wizards (7-28) in their game against the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. Vesely cannot count Monday''s game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 0 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in just 11 minutes. the Washington Wizards (7-28) were badly defeated 88-104 in Phoenix by the Phoenix Suns. It was Washington Wizards'' sixth consecutive loss in a row. This year Vesely''s overall stats are: 2.7ppg and 2.9rpg in the 28 games. He is a former international player as he played for the Czech Republic senior team two years ago.

Stefan Licartovsky

#7. Former an international swingman Stefan Licartovsky (196-84) couldn''t help Eco Orebro (2-30) in their game against Sodertalje Kings in the Swedish Basketligan. Licartovsky recorded 6 points. Eco Orebro (#10) was crushed 78-106 in Sodertalje by the second-ranked Sodertalje Kings. It was Eco Orebro''s sixth consecutive loss in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Licartovsky''s total stats this season are: 8.4ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.4apg.

David Jelinek

#8. Guard David Jelinek (196-90) is a teammate of previously mentioned Lubos Barton and both played together in the last Spanish ACB game. Jelinek contributed to a FIATC Joventut''s victory against the 17th-ranked Asefa Estudiantes 71-56. He scored only 2 points in 15 minutes. FIATC Joventut Badalona (8-13) is placed 14th in the ACB. This year Jelinek''s total stats are: 8.0ppg and 1.4rpg in the 21 games. He used to play for the Czech Republic national team back in 2010.

Jan Svandrlik

   #9. International guard Jan Svandrlik (197-94) couldn''t help Clinicas Rincon (4-21) in their game against CB Tarragona 2017 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). Svandrlik cannot count Saturday''s game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 0 points. CB Ins Oftamologico Clinicas Rincon (#18) was defeated 63-69 on their home court in Malaga by the higher-ranked (#15) CB Tarragona 2017. Svandrlik averaged so far: 2.0ppg and 1.7rpg.

There are also other players who performed very well, but have never been selected to any national team and who carry Czech Republic passport:

   #1. Ivo Hoger (225-C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) was the major contributor in an Olimpi''s victory against the fourth-ranked Sokhumi 84-65 in the Georgian Superleague last Saturday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 17 rebounds. Hoger also added 17 rebounds and 3 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Olimpi Tbilisi (11-2) is placed second in the Superleague. It was Olimpi''s third consecutive victory in a row. Hoger has relatively good stats this season: 12.0ppg, 9.1rpg and 1.1bpg.

   #2. Jan Kratochvil (200-F-82) contributed to a Komarno''s victory against the seventh-ranked Levice 62-53 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Saturday. Kratochvil recorded 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. MBK Rieker Komarno (21-10) is placed second in the Extraliga. It was Komarno''s eighth consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. It''s Kratochvil''s first season with the team. Kratochvil''s overall stats this season are: 8.9ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.6apg.

   #3. David Steffel (212-C/F-85) couldn''t help Rovinari (11-10) in their game against CSM Bucuresti in the Romanian Div.A. Steffel scored only 4 points in 20 minutes. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (#10) was badly defeated 81-100 on the road by the higher-ranked (#4) CSM Bucuresti. Steffel has relatively good stats this year: 13.8ppg, 8.4rpg and 1.6apg in the 19 games he played so far.

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		22-1
2. Sparta Praha		19-4
3. Opava B		17-6
4. Proton Zlin		15-8
5. Sokol H.Kralove		15-9
6. Sokol Prazsky		14-10
7. Trutnov		11-12
8. Liberec		11-13
9. Vysehrad		10-13
10. Prostejov B		9-14
11. Benesov		9-14
12. Litomerice		8-15
13. Mlada Boleslav		2-21
14. Kladno		1-23

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		21-13
2. Springfield A.		21-14
3. Dakota W.		19-15
4. Canton C.		18-17
5. Erie Bay H.		16-17
6. Maine RC		14-22
7. Ft.Wayne MA		11-26
8. Sioux Falls S.		9-26
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		27-11
2. Austin T.		22-13
3. Rio Grande VV		22-16
4. Bakersfield J.		19-16
5. Texas L.		18-18
6. Reno B.		17-18
7. Tulsa 66ers		16-22
8. Idaho S.		15-21

Jerry Smith named Player of the Month - by Eurobasket News
Jerry Smith (6'2''-G-87, college: Louisville) was named NBA Development League Player of the Month for games played in February, it was announced today. Smith, who was named NBA D-League Performer of the Week on Feb. 6, is a first-time Player of the Month honoree and the first Player of the Month in Armor history.

Smith (6-2, 190, Louisville) led Springfield to a perfect 8-0 record in February, averaging 22.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 35.4 minutes. He scored in double figures in all eight games, recording back-to-back double-doubles on Feb. 2 and Feb. 3 and finishing with more than 20 points in five contests. A 2012 NBA D-League All-Star, Smith was Springfield's leading scorer five times in February.

The Armor, currently in the midst of a franchise-record eight-game win streak, will return to action tomorrow night when they travel to Maine to take on the Red Claws at 7:00 PM. The Armor don't return home to the MassMutual Center until Thursday, March 8 when they host the Canton Charge.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Top Dominican Rep. players abroad based on last week''s performance - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing Dominican Rep. players, who play currently abroad.

Trevor Ariza

#1. The best performed Dominican Rep. player this week who plays abroad is former international forward Trevor Ariza (203-85, agency: David Lee services, college: UCLA), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the New Orleans Hornets (8-27) to beat the Indiana Pacers despite his very good performance on Tuesday. Ariza was the top scorer with 21 points. He also added 6 rebounds and dished 5 assists in 43 minutes. But the New Orleans Hornets (8-27) were defeated in an overtime 108-117 on the road by the Indiana Pacers. Ariza has relatively good stats this year: 11.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 44.3%, 3FGP: 33.8% and FT: 76.6% in the 27 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Dominican Rep. and American. Ariza played for the Dominican Rep. national team in 2005.

Jeff Greer

#2. The second best is former international swingman Jeff Greer (196-79, college: Rutgers). He was not able to help EnBW Ludwigsburg (7-17) in their game against ALBA Berlin in the German BBL despite his very good performance on Saturday. Greer was the second best scorer with 17 points in 25 minutes. But EnBW Ludwigsburg (#16) was defeated 78-83 in Berlin by the much higher-ranked (#3) ALBA Berlin. It''s Greer''s first season with the team. This year he averages: 6.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.4apg, 3FGP: 39.6% in the 17 games. Greer is another player who holds two passports: Dominican Rep. and American. He played for the Dominican Rep. national team three years ago.

Eulis Baez

#3. Number three best Dominican Rep. player abroad this week is former international forward Eulis Baez (201-82, college: W.Illinois). Baez contributed to a FIATC Joventut''s victory against the 17th-ranked Asefa Estudiantes 71-56 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. He scored 6 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 3 assists. FIATC Joventut Badalona (8-13) is placed 14th in the ACB. This season Baez has relatively solid stats: 10.5ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 42.7%, 3FGP: 41.2% and FT: 69.1%. He played for the Dominican Rep. senior national team three years ago.

Rodrigo Madera

#4. Center Rodrigo Madera (208-90) contributed to a St.Francis Xavier''s victory against the Saint Mary''s University 84-54 in the Canadian university league CIS last Saturday. Madera scored 6 points, had 4 rebounds and made 3 blocks. The St.Francis Xavier has quite an impressive 16-4 record this season. It was St.Francis Xavier''s seventh consecutive victory in a row. The Regular Season already ended. Madera''s overall stats this season are: 4.1ppg and 3.6rpg. He used to play for the Dominican Rep. national team back in 2007.

Stephen Jackson

   #5. Former an international forward Stephen Jackson (202-78, college: Butler Co.CC) contributed to a Milwaukee Bucks'' victory against the New Jersey Nets 92-85 in the NBA last Sunday. Jackson scored only 2 points. The Milwaukee Bucks have a solid 14-21 record this season. Jackson has reliable stats this season: 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg and 3.0apg. He has both American and Dominican Rep. nationalities.

There are also other players who performed very well, but have never been selected to any national team and who carry Dominican Rep. passport:

   #1. Francisco Garcia (201-F/G-81, college: Louisville) contributed to a Sacramento Kings'' victory against the Washington Wizards 115-107 in the NBA last Wednesday. He scored 12 points, had 5 rebounds and made 3 blocks. The Sacramento Kings have 12-23 record this season. It''s Garcia''s seventh year with the team. This season Garcia averages: 4.4ppg and 1.8rpg.

   #2. Adris Deleon (180-G-84, college: E.Washington) was not able to help Gold Coast Blaze (13-9) in their game against Townsville Crocodiles in the Australian NBL despite his very good performance on Sunday. He was the top scorer with 22 points. Deleon also added 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 36 minutes. ; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only his third season in pro basketball. But Gold Coast Blaze (#4) was defeated 66-80 on the road by the lower-ranked (#5) Townsville Crocodiles. It''s Deleon''s first year with the team. Deleon belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #9 and also on the list of most steals (fifth place). He has very impressive stats this year: 15.7ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.9apg and 1.4spg in the 19 games he played so far.

   #3. Kelvin Pena (193-G-80, college: Southeastern CC) was not able to help Toros (3-12) in their game against Gaiteros in the Venezuelan LPB despite his very good performance on Thursday. Pena was the second best scorer with 22 points. He also added made 3 passes and 4 steals. But Toros de Aragua (#9) was defeated 96-101 in Maracaibo by the higher-ranked (#7) Gaiteros. This season Pena has very high stats. he averages: 24.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.3apg and 3.8spg.

   #4. Ricardo Greer (197-F/G-78, college: Pittsburgh) was the major contributor in a Strasbourg IG''s victory against the 14th-ranked Poitiers 67-48 in the French ProA last Wednesday. Greer had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 10 rebounds (made all of his five free throws) in 32 minutes. Strasbourg IG (8-11) is placed tenth in the ProA. Greer is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league. He has very reliable stats this year: 13.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 4.0apg and 1.6spg in the 19 games. Greer has a dual citizenship: Dominican Rep. and American.

   #5. Larry Turner (210-F/C-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Tennessee St.) contributed to a Toyama Grouses'' victory against the closely-ranked Shiga L-Stars 100-65 in the Japanese BJ League last Sunday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 16 rebounds. Turner also added 16 rebounds and 2 blocks. Toyama Grouses (19-15) are placed third in Eastern group. It was Toyama Grouses'' third consecutive victory in a row. It''s Turner''s first season with the team. This season he averages: 5.4ppg, 6.1rpg and 1.4bpg. Turner is another player who holds two passports: Dominican Rep. and American.

   #6. Emmanuel Quezada (188-PG-85, college: USF) was not able to secure a victory for Baloncesto Leon (12-12) in their game against Canarias in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. Quezada was the second best scorer with 14 points. He also added 4 rebounds and 3 assists (made all of his six free throws). Quezada is currently third on the list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Quezada averages: 17.0ppg, 3.2rpg and 3.3apg. He has both American and Dominican Rep. nationalities.

   #7. Sean Ogirri (188-G-86, college: Wyoming) led Leche Rio Breogan to a victory over the 13th-ranked Grupo Iruna Navarra 78-71 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Saturday. Ogirri was MVP of the game. He recorded 17 points in 27 minutes. This year Ogirri has relatively solid stats: 12.4ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.7apg in the 25 games. He also holds two passports: Nigerian and Nigerian.

   #8. Ruben Guillandeaux (198-G-88, college: La Salle) was the major contributor in an Ourense''s victory against the sixth-ranked Barca Regal II 79-69 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Sunday. Guillandeaux scored 14 points, made 4 passes and 4 steals. His overall stats this season are: 9.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg. Guillandeaux holds both American and Dominican Rep. passports

   #9. Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: FIU) contributed to a Lirija''s victory against the leader MZT Skopje 88-85 in the FYR Macedonian Superleague last Sunday. He had a double-double by scoring 11 points and making 11 passes. Morban also added 4 rebounds in 38 minutes. Morban belongs to league''s best passers and is ranked #1 and also on the list of most steals (fifth place). This year his overall stats are: 9.9ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.3apg and 1.4spg in the 22 games.

   #10. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) contributed to a San Martin Corrientes'' victory against the sixth-ranked Atenas 82-79 in the Argentinian LigaA last Sunday. Martinez scored 5 points, had 10 rebounds and dished 5 assists in 32 minutes. Martinez is currently first on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this year: 14.1ppg, 12.9rpg and 2.2apg in the 14 games.

Standings - LIDOBA

SRT Standings

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

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ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. Tartu Ulikool		19-2
2. Kalev/Cramo		16-2
3. Tarvas		14-7
4. Rapla		12-10
5. TTU		10-11
6. Tln Kalev		8-15
7. Parnu		3-18
8. Valga		3-20

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valga
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.1

1. Strupovics, Valga	20.1
2. Raadik, Parnu	19.2
3. Pilk, TTU	17.6
4. Soo, Rapla	17.6
5. Cipruss, Tarvas	17.6
6. Raley-Ross, Tln K.	17.5
7. Raap, Parnu	16.3
8. Veideman, Tartu U.	15.6
9. Blaus, Valga	15.0
10. Arnold, TTU	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	10.4
2. Arnold, TTU	8.9
3. Blaus, Valga	8.4
4. Cricelli, Valga	8.4
5. Ringmets, Rapla	8.1
6. Raadik, Parnu	7.9
7. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	7.9
8. Shaw, Tln Kalev	7.6
9. Allingu, Tartu U.	6.8
10. Amis, Tartu Uliko.	6.6

Assists Per Game

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

1. Cunda, Valga	4.5
2. Laane, Rapla	3.9
3. Kriisa, Tarvas	3.6
4. Raap, Parnu	3.5
5. Keedus, TTU	3.4
6. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool	3.3
7. Pilk, TTU	3.3
8. Dorbek, Tarvas	3.2
9. Sirsnins, Tarvas	3.1
10. Veideman, Tartu U.	2.8

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	1.8
2. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.5
3. Raadik, Parnu	1.4
4. Blaus, Valga	1.1
5. Fedortchuk, Tln K.	1.0
6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.7
7. Varbanov, Kalev/Cr.	0.7
8. Hallik, Tarvas	0.6
9. Shaw, Tln Kalev	0.5
10. Veski, Tarvas	0.5

Best performance of Estonian players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing Estonian players, who play currently abroad.

Siim-Sander Vene

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international forward Siim-Sander Vene (203-90). He contributed to a VEF Riga''s victory against the leader Valmiera 87-72 in the Latvian LBL last Saturday. Vene scored 5 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. VEF Riga (10-1) is placed fourth in the LBL. It was VEF Riga''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Vene averages: 3.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 3FGP: 33.3% in the two games he played so far. He played for the Estonian national team two years ago.

Rain Veideman

#2. Number two best Estonian player abroad this week is an international guard Rain Veideman (192-91), who plays in the German BBL. Veideman could not help BBC Bayreuth (9-15) to beat Deutsche Bank Skyliners. He scored 8 points in 30 minutes. BBC Bayreuth (#13) was crushed 57-90 on the road by the higher-ranked (#11) Deutsche Bank Skyliners. Veideman''s overall stats this season are: 7.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 36.4%, 3FGP: 38.5% and FT: 63.6%. He is currently a member of the senior Estonian National Team.

Kent Vene

   #3. Third place goes to an international forward Kent Vene (192-94). Vene contributed to a Zalgiris-Sabonio''s victory against the sixth-ranked Marijampoles Matinga-Juodeliai 84-80 in the Lithuanian NKL (second division) last Tuesday. He recorded only 2 points. Zalgiris-Sabonio mokykla Kaunas (21-17) is placed seventh in the NKL. The Second Stage already ended. This year Vene averages just 0.8ppg, 2FGP: 33.3%, 3FGP: 33.3% in the 14 games. He played for the Estonian national team in 2012.

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

   #1. Renato Lindmets (198-F-84, college: Westfield St.) contributed to a Stjarnan''s victory against the sixth-ranked Snaefell 80-75 in the Icelandic Express L. last Thursday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 11 rebounds. Lindmets also added 11 rebounds5 assists in 35 minutes. Stjarnan (11-6) is placed third in the Express L.. This season Lindmets has very high stats. he averages: 16.6ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1bpg and 1.4spg. Lindmets is a naturalized American.

   #2. Artur Surov (216-C-83) contributed to a Torpan Pojat''s victory against the tenth-ranked UU-Korihait 94-91 in the Finnish Korisliiga last Sunday. Surov scored only 0 points. Torpan Pojat Helsinki (18-14) is placed fifth in the Korisliiga. It was Torpan Pojat''s fifth consecutive victory in a row. Surov has a dual citizenship: Estonian and Finnish. He previously played for the Finnish National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the Estonian team.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mirza TELETOVIC
  Caja L.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 22

1. Teletovic, Caja L.	22.0
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	18.1
3. McCalebb, Montepa.	17.4
4. Domercant, Unics	16.3
5. Weems, Zalgiris	15.5
6. Macvan, Partizan	15.3
7. Krstic, CSKA	14.7
8. Carroll, Real Madr.	14.2
9. Lorbek, FCB Regal	14.2
10. Banic, Gescrap BB	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Milan MACVAN
  Partizan
  (206-C-89)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Macvan, Partizan	8.2
2. Motiejunas, Asseco	7.9
3. Kirilenko, CSKA	7.0
4. Akingbala, Nancy	6.9
5. Slaughter, Brose B.	6.9
6. Freeland, Unicaja	6.7
7. Kasun, KK.	6.6
8. May, KK.	6.4
9. Krstic, CSKA	6.3
10. Reyes, Real Madrid	6.3

Assists Per Game

Sergio RODRIGUEZ
  Real M.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Rodriguez, Real M.	5.4
2. Batum, Nancy	5.2
3. Teodosic, CSKA	4.9
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	4.9
5. Prigioni, Caja L.	4.6
6. Tunceri, Anadolu	4.5
7. Blassingame, Assec.	4.5
8. Huertas, FCB Regal	4.3
9. Spanoulis, Olympia.	4.1
10. Farmar, Maccabi	4.0

Steals Per Game

Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Prigioni, Caja L.	2.2
2. Sefolosha, Fener.U.	2.1
3. Linehan, Nancy	2.0
4. Gordon, Galatasaray	1.9
5. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.8
6. Kirilenko, CSKA	1.8
7. Batum, Nancy	1.7
8. Kinsey, Anadolu	1.6
9. McCalebb, Montepa.	1.5
10. Ilyasova, Anadolu	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Kirilenko, CSKA	2.3
2. Ibaka, Real Madrid	2.0
3. Begic, Real Madrid	1.7
4. Ilyasova, Anadolu	1.5
5. Dorsey, Olympiakos	1.5
6. Fischer, Gescrap BB	1.4
7. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.3
8. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.3
9. Vazquez, FCB Regal	1.3
10. Hines, Olympiakos	1.1

Euroleague round 6 (Top 16) best performance: Manuchar Markoishvili - by Eurobasket News
Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-G-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Bennet Cantu, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6 (Top 16).
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (32 points, two rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Zalgiris (0-6) 77-71. Markoishvili had a remarkable 57.1% from 2-point range and got five three-pointers out of 10 attempts. He has many years of experience at Bennet Cantu, through which he has constantly improved. Manuchar Markoishvili averages this season 9.1ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86) of Maccabi T-A. Hendrix had a very good evening with a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Maccabi T-A was edged by group H leader FCB Regal (6-0) 70-67. Hendrix is well-known at Maccabi T-A and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) of Real Madrid. Reyes scored 17 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Real Madrid, leading his team to a 102-90 win against Montepaschi. Reyes has a very solid season. In 16 games in Euroleague he scored 8.4ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82) of Olympiakos - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 8 assists
5. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83) of Anadolu Efes - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) of Unicaja - 11 points and 11 rebounds
7. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85) of Olympiakos - 16 points and 5 rebounds
8. Pete Mickeal (199-F-78) of FCB Regal - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Henry Domercant (192-G-80) of Unics - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) of CSKA - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists

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

Top 16: Heartbreaking last round, Quarterfinals set - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Olympiakos - Galatasaray 88-81
Olympiakos made it in do-or-die game against Galatasaray and advanced to Euroleague Quarterfinals. The Reds celebrated 88-81 victory on Thursday night ending this stage as the second ranked team of Group E with 3-3 record. After this loss, Galatasaray dropped to third place with the same numbers and failed to reach the Playoffs. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) was a key player in victory with 20 points and 8 assists. He reached valuation 27 and grabbed MVP award for this meeting. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 16 points and 5 rebounds, while Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) added 14 pts. At the other side, Galata got 15 points and 6 rebs from Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket). Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) scored 13, while Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) (5 as) and Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA) had 12 points each for the Euroleague newcomer, who despite this loss can be delighted with their first season ever in this elite competition. Olympiakos made 10-point lead after ten minutes and was constantly in charge for rest of the game, despite Galata seriously threatened couple of times. Quarters: 24-14, 19-21, 24-23, 21-23. Olympiakos will meet Montepaschi in the Quarterfinals.

Anadolu Efes - CSKA 65-82
CSKA Moscow celebrated easy road win against Anadolu Efes on Thursday night. It was a 65-82 victory for the Russian powerhouse, who won Group E of the Euroleague Top 16 with almost perfect 5-1 record. Of course, CSKA advanced to Quarterfinals where they will meet Spanish Bilbao. Anadolu Efes ended as the last ranked team in this pool with 1-5 and failed to reach the next stage. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) top-scored for the guests with 15 points and Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) had one less. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) and Alexey Shved (196-G-88, agency: Alti Sport) (6 as) followed with 13 and 11 pts respectively. In the loosing squad, Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) had 17 points and Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 pts, plus 5 rebounds. Savanovic was MVP of the game with valuation 25. Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83, agency: Duran International) had double-double of 10 points and 11 rebs. Quarters: 20-22, 17-25, 17-17, 11-18. Euroleague Quarterfinals start on March 20.

Group F

Unicaja - Gescrap BB 55-59
Bilbao reached Euroleague Quarterfinals in its debut season in the continents premier competition by edging past Unicaja 55-59 in Malaga on Thursday. Thanks to this crucial victory, Bilbao improved its score to 4-2 in Group B of the Euroleague Top 16 phase. Montepaschi and Real Madrid have the same numbers, but Montepaschi is No.1 in this three-way tie and Bilbao grabbed the second place, what was enough for the Playoffs. Unicaja ended with poor 0-6. Marko Banic (205-F-84) had 10 points and 6 rebounds for the guests, and Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) also scored 10 pts. Hero of the game against Montepaschi last week, Raul Lopez (183-G-80), had 9 points for 13 minutes on the court. Unicaja got 19 points and 7 rebs from Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85). Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) had 11 points and 11 rebs, while Alejandro Abrines (198-F/G-93) netted 9 pts with poor shooting from behind the arc (1 of 7). Unicaja had 51-50 lead with something more than two minutes left in the game. Raul Lopez drained a triple for Bilbao after that and Marko Banic followed with a layup for 51-55 with 1:19 to go. Abrines made two free throws for Unicaja and Raul Lopez answered with two at the other side. E.J. Rowland added 2 more from the foul line for the hosts, cutting the difference to 55-57, and putting pressure on Lopez to make his foul shots with 6.2 seconds to go. He made both to ice the game, as Gescrap squeezed out the win 55-59. Quarters: 16-15, 6-9, 14-18, 19-17. Bilbao will play against CSKA Moscow in the Quarterfinals.

Montepaschi - Real Madrid 90-102
Real Madrid exploded in the last ten minutes to beat Montepaschi in Siena 90-102 in the last round of Euroleague Top 16 phase. However, despite this victory Real Madrid failed to reach the next stage due to the earlier Bilbao's win in Malaga, which forced the Whites to win by 23 points if they want to advance. Montepaschi is the winner of Group F, Bilbao is No.2 and Real Madrid is No.3. All three teams ended with the same 4-2 record. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) had double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds for the guests. Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) scored 15 and Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) added 14 points. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) had 15 points each for the hosts. David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) followed them with one less. Quarters: 28-26, 25-26, 22-24, 15-26. In the Quarterfinals, Montepaschi will take on Olympiakos. Real Madrid will now focus on Spanish Liga Endesa.

Group G

Armani Mit - Fener.Ulker 85-72
Fenerbahce Ulker was not able to win in Milano on Wednesday night. It was a do-or-die game for the Turkish champion, but they didn't make it. Emporio Armani celebrated 85-72 victory in this meeting to end Euroleague Top 16 as No.3 of Group G with 3-3 record. FB Ulker is the last ranked team in this pool with 2-4. Both teams failed to reach the Playoffs. Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) shined for the winners with 27 points. Alessandro Gentile (197-G/F-92) had 12 points and Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) added 10 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds. Ernest Bremer (194-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) also scored 10 pts for the hosts. In FB Ulker, Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 15 points and 5 assists, and Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) netted 14 points. James Gist (205-F-86) (9 rebs) and Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) posted 12 points apiece. Milano had 14-point lead at the beginning of the last period and everything what FB Ulker was able to do after that was minus 7 midway through the quarter. Malik Hairston, Cook and Roca immediately replied and lifted their team to 80-69 lead with less than three minutes remaining and Fener was on the knees. Quarters: 20-21, 26-19, 20-15, 19-17.

Unics - Panathinaikos 63-68
Panathinaikos celebrated 63-68 victory in Kazan on Wednesday night to win Group G of the Euroleague Top 16. The reigning champion ended with 4-2 record and advanced to Playoffs. Unics also reached the next stage thanks to Fenerbahce Ulker's loss in Milano. Unics ended as No.2 in this pool with 3-3 record. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) stepped up for PAO with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland) had 10 points and 5 assists, while Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) helped with 9 points and 5 assists. In the loosing squad, Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) responded with 19 points. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) had 11 points and 6 rebs, while Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) (7 rebs) and Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) stopped to 10 pts each. PAO had 55-63 lead at the halfway of the last period, but Henry Domercant drained a triple for Unics after that and layup-plus-foul by Greer brought hosts as close as 61-63 with 3 minutes left. Unics committed 2 key turnovers and Greer missed a go-ahead shot from downtown. At the other side, Kaimakoglu made a crucial triple for PAO and Jasikevicius sealed victory from the free throw line. Quarters: 21-22, 17-18, 10-12, 15-16. PAO will meet Maccabi Electra in the Quarterfinals. Unics will play against Regal Barca.

Group H

Zalgiris - Bennet Cantu 71-77
Bennet Cantu said goodbye to 2011/12 Euroleague edition with 71-77 victory in Kaunas. The Italian squad finished as third ranked team of Group H with 3-3 record and their 15-point loss in Tel Aviv was crucial. At the other side, Zalgiris finished Euroleague Top 16 winless (0-6). Manuchar Markoishvili (196-G-86) exploded Cantu in this meeting. He drained 32 points and reached valuation 35. Markoishvili made 5 triples and was perfect from the line (9/9). Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) had 16 points and 8 rebounds, and Nicolas Mazzarino (181-PG-75, agency: Players Group) netted 9 points. For the hosts, Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) collected 15 points and 5 assists. Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85) followed him with 14 points and 7 rebs, while Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) stopped to 12 points. The hosts led 62-59 after Marko Popovic free throws midway through the fourth quarter. But Markoishvili knotted the score with a triple and then Giorgi Shermadini scored the games next 5 points as Cantu pulled away to record the victory. Quarters: 23-18, 12-21, 15-11, 21-27. Both teams will focus on domestic championships now.

FCB Regal - Maccabi T-A 70-67
Regal Barca managed to stay untouchable in Group H. The reigning Spanish champion was better than Maccabi Electra 70-67 on Wednesday night to end Euroleague Top 16 with perfect 6-0 record. Maccabi is the second ranked team in this pool with 3-3 score and both teams advanced to the Quarterfinals. Pete Mickeal (199-F-78, college: Cincinnati) led Barca with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 10 and Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) added 9 points, plus 8 rebounds. Visitors got 24 points and 10 boards from Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama). Their second scorer was Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) with 15 points (6 rebs), while Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) and Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) had 9 points each. Barca had 64-62 lead with something more than 2 minutes to go, after that Huertas and Hendrix traded triples. Wallace missed from downtown, but he grabbed offensive rebound and drew a foul. Wallace split foul the shots and Ohayon scored in the paint for a 68-67 score with 6.3 left. Maccabi fouled Mickeal, who calmly made free throws. Visitors had a chance to tie the game, but Pnini missed from downtown at the buzzer. Quarters: 19-21, 15-12, 17-11, 19-23. Barcelona will meet Unics in the Quarterfinals. Maccabi will play against the defending champion Panathinaikos.

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

FINLAND

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		25-8
2. Nilan Bisons		23-8
3. Pyrinto		22-10
4. Kauhajoki		20-13
5. ToPo		18-14
6. KTP		14-19
7. Salon Vilpas		13-20
8. Korihait		12-20
9. LrNMKY		11-20
10. Kouvot		11-20
11. Namika Lahti		8-25

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.5

1. Blue, KTP	22.5
2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	20.6
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.3
4. Newson, Kataja	19.1
5. Holloway, Salon V.	18.9
6. Crocker, KTP	18.8
7. Durham, Salon Vilp.	18.5
8. Griffin, ToPo	18.3
9. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	18.2
10. Tiedeman, LrNM.	18.1

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	13.2
2. Durham, Salon Vilp.	11.5
3. Blue, KTP	10.4
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.7
5. Williams, Pyrinto	9.1
6. Newson, Kataja	9.0
7. McDade, Nilan B.	8.3
8. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.2
9. Brown, Kouvot	7.9
10. Hamm, LrNM.	7.7

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 5

1. Moore, Namika L.	5.0
2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	4.9
3. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.6
4. Virtanen, Kataja	4.3
5. Williams, Pyrinto	4.2
6. Sarcevic, KTP	4.1
7. Haynes, LrNM.	4.1
8. Walker, Kataja	3.8
9. Holloway, Salon V.	3.4
10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.2

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.1
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	1.9
3. Blue, KTP	1.5
4. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	1.0
5. Lehtoranta, Kataja	0.8
6. Williams, Pyrinto	0.8
7. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.8
8. Hamm, LrNM.	0.7
9. Bell, KTP	0.7
10. Price, Kataja	0.7

KORISLIIGA: Vilpas upset Kataja after OT - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 33: Two contests tonight. Vilpas (Salo) upset # 1 Team Kataja (Joensuu) after OT 76-74 (64) (29-36). The heroes were Mikael Sandberg (210-C-91), whose 3-pointer helped the hosts to make the OT at 39:42 (64-64) and Jussi Savolainen (186-G-86), whose 3-pointer at 44:54 (76-74) was the winning bucket. B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: VCU) (Kataja) had two FTs at time 44:58, but missed both of them. Sandberg led Vilpas (13-20) with 17 points. Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.) scored 17 pts as well. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Tenn-Martin) netted 20 pts for Kataja (25-7).
UU-Korihait (30 yo) defeated YMCA Lahti 99-82 (49-36). Jonathan Heard (198-G/F-86) (now Korihait) again in Finland (earlier LoKoKo, Tarmo, ToPo) scored at once game high 21 points. Nigel Moore (195-F/G-81, college: Alabama A&M) added 20pts/12rbs. Sami Pekkola (200-F-83) and Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Amer.Internat.) scored 19 pts both for visitor YMCA Lahti (8-25).
Vilpas - Kataja OT 76-74 (64) (29-36). (Mikael Sandberg 17, Emmanuel Holloway 17, Allen Durham 16/18 - Jared Newson 20, Petri Virtanen 14, Sami Lehtoranta 13. A: 1160).
UU-Korihait - YMCA Lahti 99-82 (49-36). (Jonathan Heard 21/9, Nigel Moore 20/12, Mikko Jalonen 17/8a - Sami Pekkola 19, Malik Moore 19, Roope Suonio 13. A: 1189.).

UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki lands Heard - by Eurobasket Center
UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American swingman Jonathan Heard (198-G/F-98kg-86). In his first game he scored 21 points and grabbed 9 rebounds helping his new team beat Namika Lahti 99-82. Heard played most recently at Hoops Club (Lebanon). While playing 5 games for Hoops this season he averaged 17.4ppg, 8.2rpg, 3.0apg and 2.2spg. Heard is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Chile and Lebanon.

By Eurobasket Data Center

KORISLIIGA: Kenneth Lowe The Player of February - by Rauno Hurmalainen
American SG Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, college: Purdue) has been named The Player of February. Lowe, playing his fifth season in Finland and Pyrinto (Tampere) roster, has led his team into 8-0 record in February averaging 16,9 ppg - 3,0 rpg - 1,3 apg - 0,9 spg. Before Lowe the same kind of nominations have got this season F Tim Blue (KTP, Kotka) in January, F Sami Lehtoranta (Kataja, Joensuu) in December, F Jared Newson (Kataja, Joensuu) in November and SG Jeb Ivey (Bisons, Loimaa) in October.

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

FRANCE

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

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

1. Kaunisto, Blois	18.5
2. Pridotkas, Brest	17.2
3. Bigote, Cognac	17.0
4. Bluntt, Orchy	16.7
5. Almanson, Challans	16.5
6. Petrovic, Orchy	16.4
7. Pearson, Angers B.	16.3
8. Thomas, Roche	16.2
9. Belser, Charleville	16.0
10. Avramovic, Chart.	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 12

1. Kaunisto, Blois	12.0
2. Jaiteh, CFBB	10.6
3. Caskill, Cognac	10.2
4. Avramovic, Chart.	8.6
5. Pearson, Angers B.	8.5
6. Sanborn, Lievin	8.3
7. Pridotkas, Brest	8.0
8. Toney, Charleville	8.0
9. Cabarkapa, Rueil	7.8
10. McClark, Clermont	7.7

Assists Per Game

Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.9
2. Calvez, Charleville	5.2
3. Brochard, Blois	4.7
4. Ball, St Quentin	4.6
5. Barbry, Orchy	4.6
6. Daube, Le Puy	4.5
7. Dessart, Lievin	4.5
8. Berquier, Chartres	4.4
9. Godin, Cognac	4.3
10. Tillon, Montbrison	4.2

Steals Per Game

Aurelien TOTO N''KOTE
  Roche
  (194-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Toto N''Kote, Roche	2.1
2. Calvez, Charleville	2.0
3. Ball, St Quentin	1.8
4. Pistre, Charleville	1.8
5. Bigote, Cognac	1.8
6. Bichard, St Quentin	1.8
7. Koundjia-S., Le Puy	1.7
8. Dessart, Lievin	1.7
9. Kaunisto, Blois	1.6
10. Cretaux, Lievin	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

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

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

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

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

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

Standings - N1

NM1 Standings

1. St Quentin		17-5
2. Charleville		17-6
3. Orchy		16-7
4. Souffel		16-7
5. Cognac		15-8
6. Roche		15-8
7. Blois		14-9
8. Challans		13-10
9. Sorgues		13-10
10. Brest		12-11
11. Lievin		12-11
12. Angers BC 49		11-13
13. Chartres		10-13
14. Rueil		9-15
15. Clermont		8-15
16. Le Puy		4-19
17. Montbrison		3-20
18. CFBB		2-20

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

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

1. Chatfield, Paris-.	21.9
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	19.5
3. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.6
4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	16.8
5. Williams, Paris-.	16.6
6. Causeur, Cholet	16.6
7. Cox, Le Havre	16.1
8. Schilb, Chalon	15.4
9. Wise, Le Havre	15.3
10. Morlende, Hyeres-.	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

Lamont HAMILTON
  Paris-.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.5
2. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	7.9
3. Akingbala, Nancy	7.7
4. Greer, Strasbourg	7.6
5. Aminu, Chalon	7.5
6. Armstrong, AS.	7.2
7. Allen, Strasbourg	7.2
8. Falker, Cholet	7.0
9. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	6.9
10. Vebobe, Cholet	6.8

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	7.5
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.7
3. Parker, AS.	6.3
4. Wise, Le Havre	5.9
5. Linehan, Nancy	5.5
6. Pellin, Orleans	5.3
7. Dixon, Dijon	5.1
8. Barrett, Roanne	4.9
9. Schilb, Chalon	4.8
10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.7

Steals Per Game

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

1. Albicy, Gravelines	2.5
2. Batum, Nancy	2.1
3. Linehan, Nancy	2.1
4. Riley, Nanterre	1.9
5. Melody, Dijon	1.9
6. Wise, Le Havre	1.8
7. Mendy, Pau-Lacq.	1.7
8. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	1.7
9. Acker, Le Mans	1.7
10. Fournier, Poitiers	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Ajinca, Strasbourg	2.2
2. Falker, Cholet	1.6
3. Batum, Nancy	1.1
4. Issa, Gravelines	1.1
5. Akingbala, Nancy	1.1
6. Gobert, Cholet	1.1
7. Nichols, Cholet	1.0
8. Hamilton, Paris-.	1.0
9. Jackson, Roanne	0.9
10. Williams, Paris-.	0.9

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Chris DAVIS
  Le Portel
  (195-F/G-80)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Davis, Le Portel	18.7
2. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
3. McCray, Boulogne	18.3
4. Denave, St Vallier	17.4
5. Siggers, Rouen	17.2
6. Paelay, Quimper	16.6
7. Wood, Evreux	16.1
8. Barro, Bourg	16.0
9. Brown, Maurienne	15.5
10. Prowell, St Valli.	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Massie, Limoges	11.8
2. Wood, Evreux	11.3
3. Osby, Maurienne	9.5
4. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
5. Monroe, Boulazac	9.2
6. Rossiter, Denain	9.2
7. Barro, Bourg	9.0
8. Allen, Antibes	8.9
9. Badiane, Nantes	8.3
10. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.5
2. Rowland, Evreux	5.7
3. Copeland, Bourg	5.4
4. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.3
5. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.2
6. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.1
7. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.0
8. Mouillard, Quimper	4.9
9. Denave, St Vallier	4.7
10. Choquet, Fos Oue.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Armand CHARLES
  Nantes
  (193-SF-83)
  Avg: 2.6

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Badiane, Antibes	2.1
2. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
3. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
4. Osby, Maurienne	1.6
5. Jefferson, Vichy	1.4
6. Ford, Bordeaux	1.1
7. Massie, Limoges	1.1
8. Dunn, Rouen	0.9
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	0.9
10. Barro, Bourg	0.9

Best performance of French players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of French players who are playing abroad.

Tony Parker

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international point guard Tony Parker (183-82). He led San Antonio Spurs to a victory over the Utah Jazz 106-102 in the NBA last Monday. Parker was MVP of the game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and making 11 passes. Parker also added 6 rebounds and 3 steals in 38 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a very solid 24-11 record this season. This season Parker has very high stats. he averages: 19.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 8.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 46.4%, 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 80.6%. Parker is in the roster of the senior French National Team.

Joakim Noah

#2. Number two best French player abroad this week is an international power forward Joakim Noah (211-85, college: Florida). He contributed to a Chicago Bulls'' victory against the Milwaukee Bucks 110-91 in the NBA last Wednesday. Noah had a triple-double by scoring 13 points, grabbing 13 rebounds and passing 10 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). The Chicago Bulls have quite an impressive 29-8 record this season. It was Chicago Bulls'' fourth consecutive victory in a row. It''s Noah''s fifth year with the team. This year his overall stats are: 9.7ppg, 10.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 50.8% and FT: 75.7% in the 36 games he played so far. Noah is a naturalized American. He is currently a member of the senior French National Team.

Nicolas Batum

#3. Third place goes to an international forward Nicolas Batum (201-88), who plays in the NBA. Batum could not help the Portland Trail Blazers (18-18) to beat the Los Angeles Lakers despite his very good performance on Monday. He was the top scorer with 18 points. Batum also added 6 rebounds, 5 assists and made 4 blocks in 36 minutes. But the Portland Trail Blazers (18-18) were defeated 92-103 on the road by the Los Angeles Lakers. Batum has relatively good stats this season: 13.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1bpg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3FGP: 42.0% and FT: 82.2%. He is in the roster of the senior French National Team.

Mickael Pietrus

#4. Swingman Mickael Pietrus (198-82, agency: Court Side) was not able to help the Boston Celtics (17-17) in their game against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA despite his very good performance on Wednesday. Pietrus scored 16 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. But the Boston Celtics (17-17) were defeated 104-119 in Oklahoma City by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This year Pietrus'' total stats are: 7.1ppg and 3.2rpg in the 25 games. He plays currently for the French National Team.

Ali Traore

#5. International center Ali Traore (207-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) was the main contributor in a Lokomotiv''s victory against the closely-ranked Lietuvos rytas 82-78 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Traore was the best player in that game. He scored 18 points in 29 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group L. Lokomotiv Kuban (4-2) is placed first. Traore''s team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And that game will be critical. It''s Traore''s first season with the team. Traore is currently sixth on the league''s list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). He has very reliable stats this season: 14.9ppg and 7.1rpg.

Florent Pietrus

#6. Forward Florent Pietrus (202-81) contributed to a Valencia Basket''s victory against the fourth-ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque 79-61 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Pietrus scored 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first in group I. So far Valencia Basket won all six games in the Top 16. His team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. Pietrus averaged so far: 4.6ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.2spg in the nine games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior French National Team roster.

Nando De Colo

#7. International guard Nando De Colo (202-87) is a teammate of previously mentioned Florent Pietrus and both played together in the last Eurocup game. De Colo contributed to a Valencia Basket''s victory against the fourth-ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque 79-61. He scored 9 points. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first in group I. So far Valencia Basket won all six games in the Top 16. De Colo''s team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And now that game is quite important. This year De Colo has relatively solid stats: 12.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.8apg and 1.8spg in the 12 games.

Boris Diaw

#8. Power forward Boris Diaw (203-82) was not able to secure a victory for the Charlotte Bobcats (4-29) in their game against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. He scored only 4 points, had 11 rebounds and dished 8 assists in 29 minutes. the Charlotte Bobcats (4-29) were defeated 88-102 in Indianapolis by the Indiana Pacers. It was Charlotte Bobcats'' third consecutive loss in a row. : 7.7ppg, 5.5rpg and 4.4apg. Diaw is also in the roster of the French national team.

Vasil Evtimov

#9. Former an international power forward Vasil Evtimov (207-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) contributed to a Levski Sofia''s victory against the fourth-ranked Napredak Rubin 92-67 in the Balkan League last Thursday. He scored 7 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 18 minutes. Levski Sofia (8-0) is placed first in group B. So far Levski Sofia won all eight games in the Regular Season. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Balkan League Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Evtimov is ranked second on the list of the best rebounders in the league. : 7.3ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.9apg and 1.1spg.

Kevin Seraphin

#10. Power forward Kevin Seraphin (205-89) couldn''t help the Washington Wizards (7-28) in their game against the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. He scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. the Washington Wizards (7-28) were defeated 107-115 in Sacramento by the Sacramento Kings. It was Washington Wizards'' sixth consecutive loss in a row. : 3.2ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.1bpg in the 28 games. Seraphin is an international player who is currently on the senior French National Team roster.

Johan Petro

#11. Former an international center Johan Petro (214-86) couldn''t help the New Jersey Nets (11-25) in their game against the Orlando Magic in the NBA. Petro scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. : 4.2ppg and 3.3rpg in the 31 games.

Guillame Yango

#12. Former an international power forward Guillame Yango (205-82, college: Pacific) couldn''t help Biancoblu BO (8-12) in their game against Assi Ostuni in the Italian Lega2 (second division) despite his good performance on Sunday. He was the second best scorer with 12 points. Yango has reliable stats this year: 11.6ppg, 5.4rpg and 2.0spg in the five games.

Mickael Gelabale

#13. International forward Mickael Gelabale (201-83, agency: Court Side) contributed to a Khimky''s victory against the closely-ranked Aris 88-72 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Gelabale scored only 2 points. : 5.0ppg, 1.8rpg and 1.8apg in the four games.

Ian Mahinmi

#14. International power forward Ian Mahinmi (206-86) contributed to a Dallas Mavericks'' victory against the Boston Celtics 89-73 in the NBA last Monday. He recorded only 1 points. : 6.2ppg and 4.6rpg in the 33 games.

Aaron Cel

   #15. Former an international forward Aaron Cel (203-87) couldn''t help PGE Turow (0-1) in their game against Zastal ZG in the Polish PLK. Cel cannot count Saturday''s game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 2 points in 15 minutes. : 8.7ppg and 4.4rpg.

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

   #1. Afik Nissim (180-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) was the major contributor in a Krka''s victory against the closely-ranked Banvit BK 78-73 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Nissim scored 12 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 23 minutes. Krka Novo Mesto (1-5) is placed fourth in group K. The Top 16 already ended in the Eurocup. : 8.3ppg, 1.8rpg and 2.2apg. Nissim has a dual citizenship: Israeli and Israeli as he used to play in France. He previously played for the Israeli National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the French team.

   #2. Boris Meno (203-F-83, college: Davidson) contributed to a Basketbal Svitavy''s victory against the closely-ranked BK Usti nad Labem 88-77 in the Czech Republic NBL last Wednesday. He was the top player that evening. Meno scored 19 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. QANTO Basketbal Svitavy (12-19) is placed fourth in A2 group. Meno is ranked second on the list of the best rebounders in the league. This year he has very good stats: 14.6ppg and 8.4rpg in the 29 games he played so far. Meno is another player who holds two passports: Congolese and Congolese as he used to play in France.

   #3. Alfredo Ott (193-G-83, college: Dillard) couldn''t help Lan Mobel ISB (8-9) in their game against Barca Regal II in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) despite his very good performance on Friday. He was the second best scorer with 19 points. Ott also added made 3 passes and 3 steals in 37 minutes. But Iraurgi Saski Baloia Lan Mobel (#8) was defeated 82-94 on the road by the higher-ranked (#6) Barca Regal II. Ott belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #1 and also on the list of most steals (second place). This season he has very high stats. Ott averages: 17.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.3apg and 2.8spg. He is a naturalized American.

   #4. Elishay Kadir (202-F-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) couldn''t help Hapoel J-M (8-8) in their game against Maccabi T-A in the Israeli Premier League. He scored 9 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 23 minutes. But Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (#6) was defeated 100-104 at home by the leading Maccabi T-A. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Kadir has reliable stats this season: 10.8ppg, 5.7rpg and 2.0apg. He has both French and Israeli nationalities. Kadir previously played for the Israeli National Team.

   #5. Roy Samaha (205-F/C-84, agency: Pro Management Agency) contributed to an Anibal''s victory against the fifth-ranked Byblos 103-85 in the Lebanese Div.A last Tuesday. He recorded 12 points, 4 rebounds and 3 blocks. Anibal Zahle (10-8) is placed third in the Div.A. The Second Stage already ended. : 4.5ppg, 4.2rpg and 1.1apg in the 17 games. Samaha also holds two passports: French and Lebanese as he used to play in France. He previously played for the Lebanese National Team.

   #6. Francis Koffi (202-F-81, college: Fresno St.) was the major contributor in an Ourense''s victory against the 11th-ranked Tenerife 85-80 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Saturday. Koffi scored 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 27 minutes. Koffi has reliable stats this season: 11.8ppg, 6.6rpg and 1.2spg. He holds both French and Ivorian passports. Koffi previously played for the Ivorian National Team.

   #7. Brice Kabengele-Kalala (196-G-81) couldn''t help Rovinari (11-10) in their game against CSM Bucuresti in the Romanian Div.A despite his good performance on Saturday. He scored 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 25 minutes. Kabengele-Kalala''s stats this season are: 11.5ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.4apg. He holds both French and Romanian passports. Kabengele-Kalala previously played for the Romanian National Team.

   #8. Jean-Felix Moupegnou (201-F-82, college: Alabama) contributed to a Nova Ves'' victory against the seventh-ranked Levice 86-67 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Wednesday. He scored 8 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. : 8.0ppg and 5.8rpg in the six games. Moupegnou holds both Congolese and Congolese passports as he used to play in France.

   #9. Antoine Guilard (202-F-92) contributed to an University of Laval''s victory against the Bishop''s University 87-76 in the Canadian university league CIS last Friday. He scored 9 points in only 12 minutes. : 3.3ppg and 2.3rpg.

   #10. Mikael Maruotto (199-F/G-91) contributed to a Geneve Lions'' victory against the fifth-ranked SAV Vacallo 83-69 in the Swiss LNA last Saturday. Maruotto recorded 6 points in 17 minutes. : 3.6ppg and 2.4rpg. Maruotto holds both French and Swiss passports as he used to play in France.

JSA Bordeaux extends Christopher Dunn for another week - by Eurobasket News
JSA Bordeaux decided to keep Christopher Dunn (189-G-83, college: W.Virginia St.) for another week. Their contract expired last Sunday, but the club made a decision to keep Dunn for the next round of ProB (until March 4). The American guard joined Bordeaux in January as a temporarily replacement for O'Darien Bassett (191-G-86, college: Troy).. He appeared 7 times in the league averaging 11.1 points, 4 assists and 2.3 rebounds. Christopher Dunn played in ProB last season as well. He started it with Spanish Alcazar and later joined Maurienne. With Maurienne he shined with 15.1 ppg, 3.8 apg and 2.7 rpg for 18 games. Dunn played for Maurienne also from 2008 to 2010. Before that he spent one season on Cyprus with AEL Larnaca. Christopher Dunn is a product of the West Virginia State University (NCAA2), where he graduated in 2006.

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

GEORGIA

Geogian Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Larry BLAIR
  MIA Academy
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 27.6

1. Blair, MIA Academy	27.6
2. Patsatsia, Sokhumi	24.3
3. Parghalava, Sokhu.	23.5
4. Kreps, MIA Academy	23.1
5. Carter, Dinamo T.	23.1
6. Smith, MIA Academy	18.0
7. Chikviladze, Samed.	17.6
8. Niniashvili, TSU T.	17.2
9. Woodside, Armia	16.2
10. Sljuka, Olimpi	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Keyon CARTER
  Dinamo T.
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 14.2

1. Carter, Dinamo T.	14.2
2. Patsatsia, Sokhumi	10.8
3. Matiashvili, Kutai.	9.5
4. Smith, MIA Academy	9.4
5. Bekauri, Samedicino	9.4
6. Milutinovic, Olimpi	9.2
7. Keshelava, Batumi	9.1
8. Niniashvili, TSU T.	9.0
9. Machaladze, STU T.	8.9
10. Hoger, Olimpi	8.6

Assists Per Game

Giorgi GAMQRELIDZE
  Olimpi
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Gamqrelidze, Olimpi	9.5
2. Blair, MIA Academy	7.3
3. Woodside, Armia	7.2
4. Chitashvili, TSU T.	6.8
5. Gaines, Armia	6.5
6. Mikeladze, Batumi	5.9
7. Parghalava, Sokhu.	5.5
8. Artsividze, Rustavi	5.5
9. Tsekvava, Kutaisi	4.6
10. Bakradze, Dinamo	4.3

Steals Per Game

Larry BLAIR
  MIA Academy
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Blair, MIA Academy	3.9
2. Ramishvili, Batumi	2.6
3. Kokhreidze, TSU T.	2.5
4. Gaines, Armia	2.5
5. Beruashvili, STU T.	2.3
6. Machaladze, STU T.	2.2
7. Chachanidze, Rust.	2.0
8. Woodside, Armia	2.0
9. Patsatsia, Sokhumi	2.0
10. Mikeladze, Batumi	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Beka BEKAURI
  Samedicino
  (207-C-91)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Bekauri, Samedicino	2.4
2. Kjellbom, Armia	1.6
3. Toudjani, MIA A.	1.5
4. Beruashvili, STU T.	1.4
5. Matiashvili, Kutai.	1.3
6. Atuashvili, Sokhumi	1.2
7. Milutinovic, Olimpi	1.1
8. Ilic, Samedicino	1.1
9. Hoger, Olimpi	1.0
10. Shermadini, TSU T.	1.0

Best performance of Georgian players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
We bring you last week''s top performances from Georgian players who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Giorgi Shermadini

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international center Giorgi Shermadini (216-89), who plays in Italy. He could not help Bennet Cantu (3-3) to beat Regal FC Barcelona despite his very good performance on Thursday. Shermadini was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 8 rebounds in 32 minutes. But the third-placed Bennet Cantu (3-3) was edged 62-63 at home by the leading Regal FC Barcelona in the group H of Euroleague. The Top 16 already ended in the Euroleague. It''s Shermadini''s first season with the team. Shermadini has relatively good stats this season: 10.9ppg, 5.5rpg, 2FGP: 56.4%(53-94) and FT: 84.1%. He is in the roster of the senior Georgian National Team.

Zaza Pachulia

#2. Number two best Georgian player abroad this week is an international center Zaza Pachulia (212-84). Pachulia contributed to an Atlanta Hawks'' victory against the Orlando Magic 83-78 in the NBA last Thursday. He recorded only 4 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. The Atlanta Hawks have a very solid 20-15 record this season. This year Pachulia averages: 6.9ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 49.4% and FT: 71.9% in the 35 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the senior Georgian National Team.

Manuchar Markoishvili

#3. Third place goes to an international guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Giorgi Shermadini and both played together in the last Euroleague game. Markoishvili. He was not able to help Bennet Cantu (3-3) in their game against Regal FC Barcelona. Markoishvili scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 24 minutes. Bennet Cantu (#3) was edged 62-63 on their home court in Cantu by the leading Regal FC Barcelona in the group H of Euroleague. The Top 16 already ended in the Euroleague. Markoishvili''s overall stats this season are: 9.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 43.0%, 3FGP: 38.5%. He is in the roster of the senior Georgian National Team.

Georges Mdivani

#4. Center Georges Mdivani (205-85) was not able to secure a victory for Rueil (9-14) in their game against Cognac in the French NM1 (third division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. Mdivani had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 10 rebounds3 assists. But Rueil Athletic Club (#14) was badly defeated 75-91 on their home court in Rueil by the much higher-ranked (#5) Cognac. This year Mdivani has relatively solid stats: 12.0ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.5apg in the 23 games. He used to play for the Georgian national team back in 2005.

Nikoloz Tskitishvili

#5. International power forward Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-83) contributed to a Mahram''s victory against the bottom-ranked Al Riyadi Amman 91-55 in the Superleague last Tuesday. Tskitishvili scored only 4 points in only 12 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Mahram Tehran (19-0) is placed first in the Superleague. So far Mahram won all nineteen games in the Quarter-Finals. Tskitishvili has reliable stats this season: 12.0ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.5apg.

Vladimir Boisa

#6. Power forward Vladimir Boisa (209-81, agency: World Sport Agency) couldn''t help Panionios (13-5) in their game against Ikaros in the Greek A1. He cannot count it as his best performance. Boisa scored only 0 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. Panionios ON Telecoms Athens (#3) was defeated 64-74 on the road by the much lower-ranked (#12) Ikaros. Boisa''s overall stats this season are: 3.1ppg and 2.9rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Georgian National Team roster.

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

#1. Melvin Sanders (196-F/G-81, agency: FCM, college: Oklahoma St.) couldn''t help Hacettepe University (7-12) in their game against Galatasaray in the Turkish TBL. He did not beat the league record on Saturday evening. Sanders recorded only 2 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Hacettepe University (#11) was crushed 46-83 on the road by the second-ranked Galatasaray. It was Hacettepe University''s third consecutive loss in a row. Sanders is currently fourth on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this year: 11.6ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.8apg and 1.5spg in the 19 games he played so far. Sanders is a naturalized American.

Highest League Standing

Superleague Standings

1. Armia		13-0
2. Olimpi		11-3
3. Kutaisi		11-4
4. Sokhumi		8-6
5. MIA Academy		8-6
6. Dinamo Tbilisi		7-7
7. TSU Tbilisi		5-8
8. STU Tbilisi		5-9
9. Samedicino		5-9
10. Batumi		2-12
11. Rustavi		1-12

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

GERMANY

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. MBC		18-4
2. Kirchheim		15-7
3. Crailsheim		15-8
4. Chemnitz		14-9
5. Webmoebel		12-10
6. Duesseldorf		11-11
7. ETB Wohnbau		11-11
8. Jena		11-12
9. NBC		11-12
10. Karlsruhe		10-12
11. Heidelberg		10-12
12. Ehingen		10-13
13. Cuxhaven		9-13
14. Braves		6-17
15. Leitershofen		5-17

Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

Martin SAMARCO
  Karlsruhe
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 20.9

1. Samarco, Karlsruhe	20.9
2. McKiver, Braves	20.2
3. Reese, Duesseldorf	20.2
4. Alexander, ETB W.	19.3
5. Hassan, Leitersh.	18.6
6. Reid, MBC	17.6
7. Howard, Karlsruhe	17.1
8. Stommes, Webmoebel	17.0
9. Roessler, Karlsruhe	16.6
10. Black, Jena	16.4

Rebounds Per Game

Justin HOWARD
  Karlsruhe
  (208-C-81)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Howard, Karlsruhe	10.9
2. Alawoya, Braves	9.5
3. Uskoski, Kirchheim	8.3
4. Black, Jena	8.2
5. Moore, Karlsruhe	8.1
6. Webb, Crailsheim	7.7
7. Gerwig, Cuxhaven	7.6
8. Harris, Cuxhaven	7.3
9. Richardson, Leiter.	7.3
10. Shaw, Chemnitz	7.0

Assists Per Game

Ahmad SMITH
  Kirchheim
  (194-G-84)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Smith, Kirchheim	6.2
2. Johnson, Chemnitz	5.4
3. Jeka, Braves	5.2
4. Holcomb Faye, MBC	4.6
5. Rice, Cuxhaven	4.4
6. Chavis, NBC	4.4
7. Burgess, Heidelberg	4.3
8. Reese, Duesseldorf	4.3
9. Matthews, Ehingen	4.2
10. Hill, Crailsheim	4.1

Steals Per Game

Skyler BOWLIN
  Leitershofen
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 2

1. Bowlin, Leitershof.	2.0
2. Brooks, Kirchheim	2.0
3. Rice, Cuxhaven	1.9
4. Matthews, Ehingen	1.9
5. Johnson, Chemnitz	1.8
6. Williamson, Ehingen	1.6
7. Harris, NBC	1.6
8. Alexander, ETB W.	1.6
9. Diggs, Webmoebel	1.5
10. Capel, Cuxhaven	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Dmitriy CHEREMNYKH
  Braves
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Cheremnykh, Braves	1.6
2. De Michael, NBC	1.4
3. Zipser, Heidelberg	1.2
4. Williamson, Ehingen	1.1
5. Flomo, Duesseldorf	0.9
6. Lawson, Chemnitz	0.9
7. Oakes, MBC	0.9
8. Harris, Cuxhaven	0.9
9. Howard, Karlsruhe	0.8
10. Buechert, Ehingen	0.8

Dirk Nowitzki selected the top German player abroad in last week''s games - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing German players, who play currently abroad.

Dirk Nowitzki

#1. This week''s number one is an international forward Dirk Nowitzki (213-78), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Dallas Mavericks (21-15) to beat the New York Knicks despite his very good performance on Sunday. Nowitzki was the top scorer with 34 points. He also added 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 38 minutes. But the Dallas Mavericks (21-15) were defeated 97-104 on the road by the New York Knicks. It was Dallas Mavericks'' third consecutive loss in a row. It''s Nowitzki''s 14th season with the team. Nowitzki has very impressive stats this year: 19.1ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 48.6%, 3FGP: 29.8% and FT: 85.5% in the 32 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the senior German National Team.

Chris Kaman

#2. Second place goes to an international center Chris Kaman (213-82, college: Cent.Michigan). Kaman led New Orleans Hornets to a victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers 89-84 in the NBA last Wednesday. He was MVP of the game. Kaman recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 13 rebounds3 assists and 2 blocks. The New Orleans Hornets have rather weak 8-27 record this season. It''s Kaman''s first year with the team. Kaman has relatively good stats this season: 12.0ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 41.4% and FT: 78.7%. He is a naturalized American. Kaman is in the roster of the senior German National Team.

Nikita Khartchenkov

#3. The player who performed third best last week was former international forward Nikita Khartchenkov (200-87). He was the main contributor in a CSU Sibiu''s victory against the 14th-ranked Perla Harghitei 118-101 in the Romanian Div.A last Saturday. Khartchenkov was the best player in that game. He scored 40 points (!!!) in 34 minutes. CSU Atlassib Sibiu (13-8) is placed eighth in the Div.A. Khartchenkov has very impressive stats this year: 17.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 51.4%, 3FGP: 37.9% and FT: 84.2% in the 20 games. He has a dual citizenship: Russian and Russian as he used to play in Germany. Khartchenkov played for the German national team five years ago.

Konrad Wysocki

#4. Forward Konrad Wysocki (201-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) was not able to help PGE Turow (0-1) in their game against Zastal ZG in the Polish PLK despite his very good performance on Saturday. He recorded 14 points. But the fifth-placed PGE Turow Zgorzelec (0-1) was badly defeated 73-91 at home by the higher-ranked (#4) Zastal ZG in the Group A. This season Wysocki averages: 9.5ppg and 3.8rpg. He plays currently for the German National Team.

Tilo Klette

#5. Former an international power forward Tilo Klette (206-77) was not able to secure a victory for Levanga Hokkaido (16-19) in their game against Aishin Sea Horses in the Japanese JBL despite his very good performance on Sunday. Klette recorded 13 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists in a mere 18 minutes. But Levanga Hokkaido (#5) was edged 79-80 in Kariya by the leading Aishin Sea Horses. It''s Klette''s first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 12.7ppg and 5.0rpg in the 34 games.

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

#1. Keith Waleskowski (204-C/F-80, college: Dayton) was not able to secure a victory for Tezenis Verona (9-12) in their game against S.Antimo in the Italian Lega2 (second division) despite his very good performance on Sunday. Waleskowski was the top scorer with 17 points. He also added 9 rebounds in 34 minutes. But Tezenis Verona (#9) was defeated 70-77 on the road by the bottom-ranked (#15) S.Antimo. It was Tezenis Verona''s third consecutive loss in a row. This year Waleskowski''s overall stats are: 8.8ppg, 5.6rpg and 1.4spg in the 12 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American.

#2. Sergio Kerusch (195-F-89, college: W.Kentucky) was not able to secure a victory for Aris (1-5) in their game against Khimky in the Eurocup despite his good performance on Tuesday. Kerusch scored 10 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. But Aris Thessaloniki (#4) was badly defeated 72-88 in Khimki by the second-ranked Khimky in the group J of Eurocup. It was Aris'' third consecutive loss in a row. The Top 16 already ended in the Eurocup. Kerusch''s overall stats this season are: 7.4ppg and 5.8rpg. He is a naturalized American.

#3. Kiril Wachsmann (203-C/F-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Iona) contributed to a Melilla Baloncesto''s victory against the ninth-ranked Ford Burgos 88-84 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. Wachsmann recorded only 2 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Melilla Baloncesto (15-9) is placed fifth in the LEB Gold. It was Melilla Baloncesto''s third consecutive victory in a row. Wachsmann''s overall stats this season are: 5.2ppg and 6.4rpg.

#4. Urule Igbavboa (205-C-87, college: Valparaiso) contributed to a LF Basket''s victory against the seventh-ranked Solna Vikings 82-80 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He recorded 5 points in 16 minutes. LF Basket (18-14) is placed fifth in the Basketligan. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Igbavboa has reliable stats this year: 10.3ppg and 5.3rpg in the 32 games. He is a naturalized American.

#5. Darko Rallis (180-G-78) couldn''t help Doxa Lefkadas (10-10) in their game against Apollon Patras in the Greek A2 (second division). Rallis scored 7 points and added 3 passes. AE Doxa Lefkadas (#9) was defeated 66-77 in Patra by the second-ranked Apollon Patras. Rallis'' overall stats this season are: 4.4ppg and 2.0apg. He has a dual citizenship: German and Greek.

#6. Dorian Baclawski (189-G-86) couldn''t help Inter Parts AZS UWM Olsztyn (9-10) in their game against KK Swiecie in the Polish 2Liga (third division). Baclawski scored 8 points, made 4 passes and 3 steals in 22 minutes. This year Baclawski''s overall stats are: 5.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg and 1.6spg in the 18 games. He is another player who holds two passports: German and Polish as he used to play in Germany.

#7. Cody Toppert (193-G-83, college: Cornell) contributed to a Basquet Mallorca''s victory against the 16th-ranked Lobe Huesca 87-83 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. Toppert recorded only 2 points. Toppert is a naturalized American.

#8. Jorg Rottgardt (191-G-81) couldn''t help Falcon (7-20) in their game against Naestved in the Danish Ligaen. He scored only 4 points in only 10 minutes. This year Rottgardt''s overall stats are: 7.0ppg and 2.1rpg in the 24 games.

Chris Fleming Gives The Brose Baskets Bamberg Organization That Needed Class Act Punch - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
In todays world making the fast buck is what seems to be the norm including selling newspapers as the scandal reports about which Baskeball player is sleeping with what other basketsball players wife, the Pete Rose betting scandal, the Minnesota Vikings party boat scandal or the recent Penn State scandal are just some of the stories that America wants to read as they sip their coffee and eat toast at the Breakfast table. However, it is often the positive stories that get forgotten or are only recognized partly on the surface that really should get more credit and publicity. One man in the Beko BBL who continues to add points to his class act image is Brose Baskets Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming (agency: Pro One Sports ) He has rapidly become one of Germanys best coaches after building up the Artland Dragons program coming from the second league into the Beko BBL and making it into a playoff team and the 2008 cup winner. Since 2008, he has been coach in Bamberg and after start difficulties has made the team into a basketball power house in the BEKO BBL winning the last two league titles and cups and is now looking for the triple. Bamberg had been labeled as the team everybody wants to hate in the last years simply because they were always good, but also had player personalities and fans that you loved to hate. The bar scene fight years ago involving Steffan Hamann, Uvis Hellmanis and Mike Nahar didnt help their image either. However since Fleming has come on board, his demanour and mentality seems to have eased the once harder more brutal imagine more into a sympathetic team. A good example to why he is such a massive class act was his unnecessary, but much appreciated words that he let go after the big 101-68 win in Goettingen recently. This was a strange game for me. We had some cup and playoff games in the last years against BG Goettingen. They have had a marbled season so far to put it mildly. I know how hard Marc Franz has worked to get great basketball here. Michael Meeks is now in his third position here and has invested much. If BG Goettingen does move down to the second league, then I hope that they will return back. I would like to see basketball in the Lok Halle. It was always difficult for my teams there, but it is one of the best arenas in Germany. The fans have deserved attractive basketball, stressed Chris Fleming (agency: Pro One Sports ) Fleming has made Bamberg what it is today and gets much respect from everyone. Chris Fleming is a very extraordinary coach in Germany. He has shown how he is able to improve players and have success with them. His tactical ability is unbelievable. One sees now that almost every team runs plays that he started with Bamberg in the last years. That less positive image has changed through the play of the team. In the past, Bamberg was known as being a very defensive orientated team which became very unpopular due to very physical play. He has made Bamberg more into an offensive team, stressed Walter Tigers Tuebingen forward Ruben Spoden.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg are looking to win the triple this season with a third Beko BBL championship and third Cup win as well as meeting their goal of reaching the Top 16 in Euroleague play. Last season, the team swept through the regular season with a record of 32-2 and outscored their opponents by a huge margin of 2786-2213 points. They swept the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 3-0 in the quarterfinals, but looked more human in the semi finals needing five games to dispose of the Artland Dragons where they showed their stamp winning game 5 83-55. In the finals, they also needed 5 games to dispose of pesky Alba Berlin , who still had a shot with two minutes remaining, but succumbed to little mistakes and gigantic John Goldsberry shots to win the title again. Bamberg seemed to get better with every game that they played and the Euroleague competition also helped them, stressed TBB Trier guard John Bynum.
One thing that Brose Baskets Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming has learned twice the last two off seasons is that one should not change a winning team and if dollars get in the way then try to keep as much as possible to keep that winning chemistry in tact. The team kept 11 players, losing Americans Kyle Hines that reached the big time with Top Euroleague team Olympiakos Piraeus and Reyshawn Terry. The team added sufficient strength for these two positions with ex Bremerhaven brat wurst eater Marcus Slaughter who left the Beko BBL in 2008 averaging 18ppg and 10rpg after 8 games and athletic forward Pj Tucker. The team got added offensive firepower with ex Alba Berlin guard Julius Jenkins that has won titles and may be still be one of the most dangerous crunch time players in the Beko BBL where teams would rather see him on the bench fouled out then on the floor when the going gets tough. . I think they are deeper than last season and the pieces they lost they replaced them in a great way, warned John Bynum. Bamberg is averaging 89 points per game this season They are just stacked in each position and they dont have let downs at any point during a game. You can't make too many mistakes and if you do they make you pay for it. On offense they have so many guys they can go to and anyone can put the ball in the basket. As far as defense they take you out of sets and make you play further awaythen you are used to playing by ball pressure and by playing physical, warned John Bynum.

One can discuss all day long or ask ex Bamberg guard Michael Hakim Jordan how many quick smiles he can produce that equal the number of strenghthes that the team have, but relentless aggressive defense, immaculate speedy ball movement or maybe the most important of all total unselfishness and that has to do with having the right characters players mesh together in the right system. So often finding the right players for a certain system isnt easy, but Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming has the right New Jersey twist to haul in the right players. Chris is a great coach and has a great system and each player he has brought in fits the system to perfection. He has taken Bamberg to a very high level with their talent and his coaching ability. Bamberg has gotten stronger each season and if that continues, one shouldnt have to shy away from soon making dynasty comparisons to the Alba Berlin teams from 1997-2003. Bamberg is going in the right direction for it to be called a dynasty but a lot has to fall into their favor. If they are able to sustain their level of play and not have any key injuries then they can continue their high level of play, warned John Bynum. An important question also remains if the team can stay hungry to keep winning and have nonstop motivaton? I dont think that coach will have a hard time motivating anyone. We play to win. We have been practicing hard and the new players bring a lot of excitement and we know what is in front of us. The old players want to create history and the new players want to become part of history. Everyone is highly motivated to win, warned Bamberg forward Marcus Slaughter. The Brose Baskets Bamberg have played a very strong season having a 21-2 record at the moment. They started the season strong winning their first seven games and then had a small lapse of weakness and lack of concentration losing two games in a row in Berlin and Giessen, but havent lost since November 27 and are on a 15 game winning streak limiting TBB Trier to 37 points two days ago. The Brose Baskets Bamberg continue to dominate at home and are rolling into the playoffs looking for the home court advantage and continue to be the team to beat and are clearly the favorite to win the triple this season.

The Skyliners have a massive negative record on the road in Bamberg going six years without a win until the Beko BBL playoffs 2010 where the club of Gordon Herbert won in game one 65-63. In the Fraport arena, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have a 2-7 record since the 2005-2006 season. Who could forget the embarrassing 81-48 loss in 2007 which was the last game for Skyliner coach Charles Barton. Last season, the club won twice winning in the regular season 84-80 as the team was led by American point guard Aubrey Reese with 18 points. They won a second time last season in game four with a 69-56 win sending the 2010 BEKO BBL finals back to Bamberg as Alba Berlin American Derrick Allen led the charge with 19 points and seven rebounds. In the first meeting last season season, The Brose Baskets Bamberg were able to pull out a hard fought 71-62 win as they rallied from being down 60-55 and ended the game with a 16-2 run. Anton Gavel led all scorers with 19 points and Reyshawn Terry added 15 points. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Dashaun Wood with 15 points, but he steered only two assists. Brad Buckman and Jimmy Mckinney chipped in with 10 points a piece. Bamberg was able to shoot over 40% from the field and outside while Frankfurt didnt have the touch from the three point line at only 29%. In the second game at home, Bamberg won easily 81-63. Since the 2005-2006 season, the Skyliners have a miserable 3-16 record against the three time Beko BBL champion Brose Baskets Bamberg. Last season, they lost four times in Bamberg, in the Champions Cup, against Bamberg and twice in Cup play against Braunschweig and the Artland Dragons. Since losing in Bamberg in the 2005 Beko BBL finals, Frankfurt has a record of only 2-6 in their own living room.

The Fraport Skyliners are currently riding on a two game winning streak and are riding into the Bamberg game with a lot of self confidence after their big 90-57 win in Bayreuth and are looking for revenge after their 97-63 defeat in Bamberg early in the season. The team is slowly playing better at home and their defense is very strong again. After giving up only 64 points per game through 11 games, they then lost their touch a bit giving up an average 79 points through four games, but since the last two wins against FC Bayern Munich and BBC Bayreuth are back to their old defensive tricks giving up only 53 points per contest. Bamberg is a very good team. We cant give up 80 points, but have to play like we did against Artland. If we can keep the game close then I think we have a chance to win. We have to slow down the pace and control the tempo, warned Skyliner forward Jacob Burtschi. BBC Bayreuth point guard was impressed by the play of Frankfurt and has high hopes for that team. If Frankfurt makes their shots like they did here and play good defense, then they could be in game. I really wouldnt be surprised if they won, stressed Indiana native Danny Gibson. The Brose Baskets Bamberg lead in every statistical category, but Frankfurt has shown a lot of heart and fight this season and will be focused for their Superbowl of the season at home. We will need a good week of practice. We will have to take that atmosphere and play good defense and hope we can come away with a win. We cant forget who Bamberg is though, added Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. Giessen upset Bamberg at home so why shouldnt Frankfurt be capable too? Bamberg has a great roster and all players from 1-12 are excellent and they are led by a good coach. The game will be tight and anything can happen as anyone can beat anyone in this league, warned BBC Bayreuth youth coordinator Sean Mccaw.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg are led by The Brose Baskets Bamberg are led by ex NBA player Casey Jacobsen. The 30 year old 198cm shooting guard/small forward is playing his fourth season with Bamberg after winning the BEKO BBL title with the team in 2007 and 2010 and Cup in 2010. The American from Glendora California is an outstanding player, a great competitor, both a scorer and a shooter. He can defend, take the charge, and he'll get a rebound in a crowd because he's tough. A complete player who plays hard, and plays smart. He played 287 NBA games for The Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies. He played at Stanford from 1998-2002 and in his senior year averaged 21.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 77.6%; Finished career ranked 3rd in all time points (1723), 6th in points per game (18.1), 2nd in three point field goals (22) and 4th in three point percentage (.427). Left Stanford as the sole or co-owner of 49 school records. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns (from Boston) (NBA,1rd (22). He played In France for in 2005-2006 for Ceramica Vitoria (Spain-ACB): Euroleague: 25 games: 9.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 44.5%, FT: 76.7%; Spanish League: 44 games: 7.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 2FGP: 57.0%, FT: 77.0%. In 2008-2009 he played for Alba Berlin winning the BEKO BBL cup playing Euroleague: 16 games: 6.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 68.4%; German League: 43 games: 9.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 44.6%, FT: 76.8%. Last season for Bamberg, he played Euroleague: 10 games: 9.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 68.2%; German Bundesliga: 48 games: 11.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 84.9%. Currently he is averaging 12,6ppg, 3,2rpg and 2,4apg and is shooting 50% from the field and 42,9% from outside.

The team brought in 26 year old 198cm forward PJ Tucker who played at Texas (NCAA) from 2002-2006 reaching the NCAA last 8 and Sweet 16. He knows how to play in the low post (and how to score. Plus, he is an unbelievable rebounder, who can jump two or three consecutive times to grab the ball. It didnt take him long to reach the NBA as he was drafted by the Toronto Raptors (NBA,2rd (35) in 2006. In 2006-2007, he got a taste of the NBA playing for the Toronto Raptors (NBA), Regular Season: 17 games: 1.8ppg, 1.4rpg; in Jan.'07 assigned to Colorado 14ers (D-League), in Feb.'07 recalled to Toronto Raptors (NBA), in March '07 assigned to Colorado 14ers (D-League), shortly left: 19 games: 10.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 84.6%. In the last four years, he has gained much experience in Europe having played in Isreal, Ukraine, Greece and Italy. Last season, he played for Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-A1, starting five): Greek League: 19 games: 11.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 59.6%; EuroCup: 14 games: Score-3 (15.9ppg), Reb-2 (8.0rpg), 1.7apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 68.1%, in May'11 moved to Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 3 games: 12.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 3.3apg, 2.7spg and in the summer of 2011 signed at Quebradillas Pirates (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five): 17 games: 14.9ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 19.2%, FT: 75.9%. Currently he is averaging 12,4ppg and 4,4rpg and is shooting 50% from the field and 42,9%from the parking lot. German national player Tibor Pleiss is playing his third season for The Brose Baskets Bamberg. He is a 22 year old 214cm center that was born in Bergisch Gladbach. He started his basketball career for Rhein Energie Cologne in 2006-2007. In Cologne he played 39 BEKO BBL games and two ULEB cup games. He won the BEKO BBL cup in 2007 with Cologne. He started his German national team career at the European championships in 2009 in Poland. Last summer, he played at the World Championships in Turkey playing 5 games: 8.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.1%, FT: 91.7%. In 2009-2010 for Bamberg he played 14 Eurocup games: 8.1ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 54.4%, FT: 77.1%; German League: 45 games: 8.0ppg, 5.9rpg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 70.8%. Last summer he was drafted at #31 in the second round of the 2010 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets and then traded to the Oklahoma Thunder. Last season, he played German League: 47 games: 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, Blocks-1 (1.6bpg), FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 76.4%; Euroleague: 10 games: 6.7ppg, Reb-5 (6.3rpg), Blocks-3 (1.5bpg), FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 78.9%. He didnt see much action at the 2011 European Championships playing six games and averaging 1,8ppg and 1,8rpg due to Chris Kaman getting the brunt of the playing time. Currently, he is averaging 11,6ppg and 4,8rpg.

Marcus Slaughter is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Riverside California that is back in the Beko BBL playing his first season with Bamberg. 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%. Currently, he is averaging 10,4ppg and 5,2rpg. Brian Roberts is a 26year old 188cm combo guard from Toldeo, Ohio who is playing his third season in Bamberg. Due to the unexpected injury to John Goldsberry, Bamberg had to react quickly and got the American shortly before the season. He played at Dayton from 2004-2008 and reached the NIT Elite 8 in 2008. In 2008-2009, he played for Saham Galil Gilboa (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 28 games: 15.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 88.5%. In 2009-2010 for Bamberg he played 14 Eurocup games: 10.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 80.0%; German League: 43 games: 11.8ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT-2 (88.4%).Last season, he played : Euroleague: 10 games: 12.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 92.7%; German League: 45 games: 10.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 84.5%.Currently he is averaging 9,6ppg, 3,2rpg and 4,2apg. He is shooting hot 60,6% from the field and 53,9% from the three point line.

Anton Gavel is a 27 year old 189cm combo guard from Slovakia that has experience and can score quickly and in bunches when needed. He is playing his third season with Bamberg and started his basketball career for BG Karlsruhe and then played for Giessen from 2004-2006. In 2004-2005, he was a big factor in almost kicking out Bamberg out of the playoffs. That season he played 39 games: 12.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, Blocks-3 (1.5bpg), 2FGP: 53.2%, 3FGP: 35.7%. The next season, he was even better as he played 30 games: 16.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.0apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 52.4%. he then got valuable experience playing in Spain in the ACB for PolarWorld Murcia from 2006-2008. In 2008-2009, he played for Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-A1). Last season he played for Svit (Extraliga, starting five), Slovakian League: 2 games: 22.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.5apg, 1.5spg; in Nov.'09 moved to Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): German League: 36 games: 10.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 71.7%; EuroCup: 12 games: 6.8ppg, 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 84.0%. Last season, he played 10 Euroleague games: 12.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 92.7%; German League: 45 games: 10.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 84.5%. Currently, he is averaging 9,4ppg, 2,0rpgand 3,6apg. He also is hot shooting 57;1% from the field and 50% from outside. Predrag Suput is a 32 year old 200cm power forward from Serbia. He is playing for The Brose Baskets Bamberg since 2007. He is a strong player (could play 3-2-4 position) good defender, excellent shot from outside. Strong penetration under the basket. Before coming to Bamberg, he played for top European teams like Partizan Belgrad and Hemofarm Vrsac. In 2009-2010, he played Eurocup playing 13 games: 13.1ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 88.5%; German League: 45 games: Score-4 (14.9ppg), 4.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 84.6%. Suput belongs to the top power forwards in the BEKO BBL and can score in so many ways that even when he kills a team with a seemingly impossible shot in traffic, you just have to smile and sigh in astonishment. Last season, he played Euroleague: 9 games: 10.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 75.0%; German League: 44 games: 12.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 78.6%. Currently he is averaging 9,4ppg, 3,6rpg and 2,2apg.

30 year old 187 cm guard American Julius Jenkins is playing his first season in Freak City and has developed into one of the top players in the BBL after first being recognized in the 2004-2005 season as he averaged 27,1ppg in the second Bundesliga for Nurnberg. He played a season in Bree, Belgium getting ULEB Cup experience before coming to Berlin in 2006 where he since has become a household name. His best scoring season was 2007-2008 where he played 45 games: Score-3 (18.2ppg), 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 57.8%, 3FGP: 42.0%, FT: 81.4%. In 2009-2010, he played EuroCup: 14 games: 14.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 74.3%; German League: 35 games: Score-5 (14.8ppg), 1.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 44.3%, FT: 80.2%. He is an explosive scorer from the point guard or the shooting guard position; possesses the ability to score and create his own shot at anytime; Has very long arms and great leaping ability; unlimited range on the jump shot, which allows him to stretch the defense. You have to pray that he misses. You have to be physical with him and make sure the bigs hedge hard on ball screens, warned Omari Westley. With Berlin, Jenkins has won a number of awards such as Bundesliga All-Star Game -08 (MVP), Bundesliga Champion -08 (Finals MVP), Eurocup finalist 2010 and German Bundesliga Cup Winner -09 (FinalFour MVP). Last season, he played German League: 44 games: 14.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 79.9%; EuroCup: 11 games: 12.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.6%. Currently, he is only 8th in scoring, but averaging 8,8ppg which would have him in the top three scoring for lower class teams in the Beko BBL.
The team is also filled with talented young Germans led by Kartsen Tadda who is a 23 year old 189cm guard. He has been with Bamberg since 2007. He started his basketball career at Troester Breitenguessbach in 2005. In 2009-2010 for Bamberg he played Eurocup 14 games: 4.1ppg, 1.4rpg; German League: 45 games: 3.2ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.0apg. Last season, he played German League: 47 games: 3.1ppg, 1.3rpg; Euroleague: 10 games: 0.8ppg; played also at TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB, starting five): 2 games: 16.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg. He is known as an aggressive and relentless defender. Currently, he is averaging 5,0ppg,1,4rpg and 2,0apg. Maurice Stuckey is a 21 year old 187cm guard that was born in Augsburg. He started his basketball career in 2005 for BG Leitershofen. He then moved to Ehingen/Urspringschule (ProB), where he played from 2007-2009. In2009-2010, he played for Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB): 20 games: 17.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 85.3%, played also at Brose Baskets Bamberg (1.Bundesliga): 4 games: 1.3ppg. At the 2010 European Championships U20 in Croatia he played 9 games: 8.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 34.6%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 75.0%. Last season, he played German League: 35 games: 2.2ppg; Euroleague: 3 games: 2.3ppg; also played at TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB): 18 games: 14.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 77.5%. Phillip Neumann is a 19 year old 210cm center that was born in Cologne Germany. He started his basketball career for SSKC Aschaffenburg / TV Langen U16 team in 2007. In 2008 he played for Franken Hexer (ProB): 21 games: 4.5ppg, 4.1rpg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg). In 2009-2010, he played for Baskets Bamberg junior team: 21.0ppg, 12.8rpg, had also license to play at TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB): 20 games: 8.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 61.0%. In 2010, he played at the European Championships U18 in Vilnius (Lithuania) -10: 9 games: 12.1ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 62.9%. Last season, he played German League: 18 games: 1.2ppg; German League: Euroleague: 1 game: 0pts. Currently, he is averaging 4,5ppg, 2,0rpg and 1,0apg.

Augie Johnston (SC Rist Wedel) We Have A Team Good Enough To Beat Anyone In The PRO B - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Augie Johnston (185-G-86, college: CS Monterey) is a 25 year old 185cm guard from Atascadero, Calfornia. He played at Cal.St.-Monterey (NCAA2) and his infinite range has proven he was one of the best shooters in the country. Although he is a prolific shooter, it is his overall ability to score the basketball and defend the opponent's best player that is so impressive. He is one of the most professional and hard working players. As a captain at Cal State Monterey Bay he has shown to have all the leadership qualities you would want in a point guard or shooting guard. He started his professional basketball career in 2009-2010 for Velbert Baskets (Germany-2.Regionalliga), playing 9 games: 28.4ppg. Last season, he played for SpVgg Rattelsdorf Independents (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 25 games: 29.8ppg . This season, he is playing for SC Rist Wedel and helped bring the team into the playoffs against Nordlingen.This season in the PRO B he is averaging 16,3ppg, 4,2rpg and 4,0apg in 24 games. He spoke to eurobasket about the current season.

SC Rist Wedel is meeting the Nordlingen Giants in the playoffs. How excited are you about this challenge?

I'm very excited because I feel we have a team good enough to beat anyone in the ProB and this will be a good test for us to see if we can put all the hard work together and get a couple wins and move to the second round.

SC Rist Wedel closed out the season with a 3 game winning streak. How ready is the team for the playoffs?

We are more ready than ever before. Everyone is healthy on the team right now and we have added Patrick Wischnewski a little more than half way through the season to the roster and he has really helped us and now our chemistry with him on the floor is clicking very well.

SC Rist Wedel go in as the underdog. Is this a position the team feels comfortable with having nothing to lose? What will be key in winning this series?

We always have something to lose because we want to win of course, but I'm sure the pressure is much greater for Nordlingen. I think the key for us to winning the game is to limit the role players production on their team. They have two very good Americans and we can't expect to completely shut them down, but if we can keep them under their season averages and then limit the rest of the players on their team we will have a good chance to win. On the offensive end we need to get out and run and look for our inside players in the half court.

How excited are you about playing against one of the top players in the league Jason Jamerson?

I always look forward to a challenge and if we can take away his 3 point shooting that will be huge for us since most players have difficulty finishing inside against us due to our size, but anytime you play against a player like Jason it pumps you up to another level.

SC Rist Wedel have some guys that can really put up points on the board. Which player will be key on defense in getting the club started?

Yeah we have many different weapons on offense and defense. We have two players that really stand out on the defensive end. One is a young 'up and comer' in Kay Gausa and the other is a seasoned vet in Mac Davis. Practice is always a battle for me going against these two and I have alot of confidence in their defense against any player in this league.

You played in the Regionaliga the last two seasons averaging nearly 30ppg last season for SpVgg Rattelsdorf Independents. The move to the PRO B hasnt effected your play. Is the next step the PRO A?

I would be honored to play in the ProA next season, and that is the next goal for my career, but as long as I am playing basketball I will be happy and no matter where I end up next season I hope to win as many games as possible and help in any way I can.

Ismet Akpinar belongs to the biggest German basketball talents from the year 1995. How have you helped his game best?

What have I helped him with? Or what has he helped me with, haha? Really though Ismet is like no other player I have ever seen before at his age. He is very self critical and so I always try to remind him that he is still young and will make mistakes but to keep playing aggressive. Most players his age and with his talent level are not easy to coach because they think they know it all, but Ismet is the total opposite. He is always looking for ways to improve and never talks back to our coach or other players, and this alone is going to take him far.

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA2 that might be in the NBA or in Europe now?

Someone that comes to mind that many Germans might know is Kevin Johnson who played for LTi Giessen 46ers two years ago and averaged 9 and 7 for them.

What are your early 2012 March Madness Final 4 picks?

Kentucky, Duke, Marquette, and Michigan St.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I actually just watched American Gangster. I'm a huge Denzel Washington fan.

Thanks Augie for the chat.

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GREECE

Spanoulis leads Olympiakos to Euroleague Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Galatasaray 88-81

Olympiakos made it in do-or-die game against Galatasaray and advanced to Euroleague Quarterfinals. The Reds celebrated 88-81 victory on Thursday night ending this stage as the second ranked team of Group E with 3-3 record. After this loss, Galatasaray dropped to third place with the same numbers and failed to reach the Playoffs. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) was a key player in victory with 20 points and 8 assists. He reached valuation 27 and grabbed MVP award for this meeting. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 16 points and 5 rebounds, while Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) added 14 pts. At the other side, Galata got 15 points and 6 rebs from Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket). Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) scored 13, while Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) (5 as) and Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA) had 12 points each for the Euroleague newcomer, who despite this loss can be delighted with their first season ever in this elite competition. Olympiakos made 10-point lead after ten minutes and was constantly in charge for rest of the game, despite Galata seriously threatened couple of times. Quarters: 24-14, 19-21, 24-23, 21-23. Olympiakos will meet Montepaschi in the Quarterfinals.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 20+8 as, Georgios Printezis 16+5 boards, Acie Law 14
Galatasaray: Luksa Andric 15+6 boards, Jamon Lukas Gordon 13, Jaka Lakovic 12+5 as, Joshua Shipp 12

Best performance of Greek players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Here is the weekly review of the top performing Greek players, who play currently abroad.

Kostas Koufos

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international power forward Kostas Koufos (213-89, college: Ohio St.), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Denver Nuggets (19-17) to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder despite his very good performance on Sunday. Koufos scored 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in only a mere 13 minutes. But the Denver Nuggets (19-17) were defeated in an overtime 118-124 on the road by the Oklahoma City Thunder. It''s Koufos'' first season with the team. This season he averages: 5.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 57.9%(66-114) and FT: 62.9%. Koufos is a naturalized American. He is in the roster of the senior Greek National Team.

Antonis Fotsis

#2. Number two best Greek player abroad this week is an international forward Antonis Fotsis (210-81). Fotsis was the major contributor in a Armani Milano''s victory against the leader Panathinaikos 67-58 in the SerieA last Thursday. He scored 12 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. EA7 Emporio Armani Milano (13-8) is placed second in the SerieA. The Top 16 already ended in the SerieA. This year Fotsis'' overall stats are: 5.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 57.9%(66-114) and FT: 62.9% in the 29 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the senior Greek National Team.

Ioannis Bourousis

#3. Third place goes to an international center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Antonis Fotsis and both played together in the last SerieA game. Bourousis contributed to a Armani Milano''s victory against the leader Panathinaikos 67-58. He scored 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 22 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. EA7 Emporio Armani Milano (13-8) is placed second in the SerieA. The Top 16 already ended in the SerieA. Bourousis'' total stats this season are: 5.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 57.9%(66-114) and FT: 62.9%. He is in the roster of the senior Greek National Team.

Sofoklis Schortsanitis

#4. Center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-85) contributed to a Maccabi T-A''s victory against the sixth-ranked Hapoel J-M 104-100 in the Israeli Premier League last Sunday. Schortsanitis scored 12 points. Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (14-2) is placed first in the Premier League. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Schortsanitis has relatively good stats this year: 11.4ppg, 4.2rpg and 1.2apg in the five games. He plays currently for the Greek National Team.

Loukas Mavrokefalidis

#5. International center Loukas Mavrokefalidis (209-84) contributed to a Spartak St.Petersburg''s victory against the closely-ranked Buducnost 70-64 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Mavrokefalidis scored 14 points. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group K. Spartak St.Petersburg (5-1) is placed first. It was Spartak St.Petersburg''s 11th consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. This year Mavrokefalidis has relatively solid stats: 12.4ppg, 3.9rpg and 1.1apg in the 14 games.

Theodoros Papaloukas

#6. Point guard Theodoros Papaloukas (200-77, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Sofoklis Schortsanitis as their both played in the Euroleague last game. Papaloukas contributed to a Maccabi T-A''s victory against the closely-ranked Zalgiris 70-66. He scored 7 points and added 7 assists in 24 minutes. Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (3-3) is placed second in group H. Papaloukas'' team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. And now that game is quite important. Papaloukas'' total stats this season are: 3.7ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.7apg. He is a former international player as he played for the Greek senior team four years ago.

Savvas Manousos

#7. Former an international power forward Savvas Manousos (208-85) contributed to a NH Ostrava''s victory against the eighth-ranked B&W Opava 91-65 in the Czech Republic NBL last Saturday. Manousos scored 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 23 minutes. BK Nova Hut Ostrava (17-14) is placed first in A2 group. It was NH Ostrava''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. Manousos'' total stats this season are: 8.7ppg and 6.1rpg.

Dimitris Haritopoulos

#8. Power forward Dimitris Haritopoulos (206-83, agency: FCM) was not able to help ASVEL (1-5) in their game against BC Donetsk in the Eurocup. Haritopoulos scored 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 17 minutes. the third-placed ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (1-5) was defeated 87-93 in Donetsk by the leading BC Donetsk in the group J of Eurocup. The Top 16 already ended in the Eurocup. Haritopoulos'' total stats this season are: 5.3ppg and 4.7rpg. He used to play for the Greek national team back in 2005.

Kostas Vasiliadis

#9. International swingman Kostas Vasiliadis (200-84, agency: FCM) contributed to a Gescrap BB''s victory against the leader Montepaschi Siena 60-59 in the Euroleague last Wednesday. Vasiliadis scored 6 points. 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 Gescrap BB''s third consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. Vasiliadis has reliable stats this year: 10.8ppg and 1.8rpg in the 16 games.

Dimitrios Mavroeidis

   #10. Center Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-85, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kostas Vasiliadis and both played together in the last Euroleague game. Mavroeidis contributed to a Gescrap BB''s victory against the leader Montepaschi Siena 60-59. He scored only 1 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 9 minutes. 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 Gescrap BB''s third consecutive victory in a row. Mavroeidis'' team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. Mavroeidis'' total stats this season are: 4.3ppg and 3.8rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Greek National Team roster.

   #11. Former an international forward Fotios Lampropoulos (206-83) contributed to an Canarias'' victory against the ninth-ranked Baloncesto Leon 82-74 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Saturday. Lampropoulos recorded only 4 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. This year Lampropoulos'' total stats are: 6.9ppg and 3.5rpg in the 25 games.

   #12. International guard Nikolaos Zisis (197-83) faced previously mentioned Kostas Vasiliadis in the Euroleague last game. Zisis was not able to secure a victory for Montepaschi Siena (4-2) in their game against Gescrap BB. He cannot count Wednesday''s game as one of the best ones. Zisis scored only 0 points and added 3 assists in 15 minutes. Zisis averaged so far: 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg and 2.8apg.

   #13. Former an international power forward Fragiskos Amato (205-78, agency: FCM) contributed to a Worthing Thunder''s victory against the third-ranked Westminster Warriors 96-85 in the British EBL (second division) last Saturday. He scored 5 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 22 minutes. Amato belongs to league''s best blockers and is ranked #4. : 3.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg and 1.1bpg.

   #14. Former an international power forward Theodoros Georgitsis (205-83) couldn''t help Eco Orebro (2-30) in their game against Sodertalje Kings in the Swedish Basketligan. He cannot count Tuesday''s game as one of the best ones. Georgitsis recorded only 3 points in only 7 minutes. : 7.3ppg and 2.4rpg.

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

   #1. Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) led Tartu Ulikool to a victory over the bottom-ranked Valga 89-78 in the Estonian KML last Thursday. Sokk was MVP of the game. He scored 18 points and added 6 assists in 27 minutes. Tartu Ulikool (19-2) is placed first in the KML. It was Tartu Ulikool''s fifth consecutive victory in a row. Sokk is one of the most experienced players in a team as it''s his fourth year in Tartu Ulikool''s roster. Sokk is currently seventh on the league''s list of best passers. His total stats this season are: 8.8ppg, 1.6rpg and 3.3apg. Sokk has a dual citizenship: Greek and Estonian. He previously played for the Estonian National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the Greek team.

   #2. Alex Hill (196-F-90, college: Cornell) was not able to help the University of Toronto (14-8) in their game against the Laurentian University in the Canadian university league CIS despite his very good performance on Wednesday. Hill was the top scorer with 23 points. But the University of Toronto (#3) was defeated 74-80 on the road by the Laurentian University. The Play-Offs already ended. Hill has very impressive stats this year: 16.3ppg, 3.1rpg and 2.1apg in the 23 games he played so far. He is another player who holds two passports: Greek and Canadian.

   #3. Leonid Iailo (206-F-73) was not able to help Mykolaiv (11-20) in their game against Dnipro in the Ukrainian Superleague despite his good performance on Wednesday. He recorded 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. But MBC Mykolaiv (#11) was defeated 84-95 at home by the higher-ranked (#8) Dnipro. It was Mykolaiv''s fourth consecutive loss in a row. Iailo''s team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Iailo is one of the most experienced players in a team as it''s his fourth year in Mykolaiv''s roster. This year his total stats are: 6.1ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.7apg in the 30 games. Iailo has both Greek and Ukrainian nationalities as he used to play in Greece. He previously played for the Ukrainian National Team.

   #4. Mannos Nakos (179-PG-88) contributed to an Uppsala Basket''s victory against the leader Norrkoping Dolphins 83-75 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He recorded 12 points and added 3 assists in 29 minutes. Uppsala Basket (18-14) is placed sixth in the Basketligan. It was Uppsala Basket''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Nakos'' total stats this season are: 5.3ppg and 1.6apg. He also holds two passports: Greek and Swedish as he used to play in Greece.

   #5. Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) was not able to secure a victory for Unics Kazan (3-3) in their game against Fenerbahce Ulker in the Euroleague. Savrasenko scored only 4 points. Unics Kazan (#2) was defeated in an overtime 87-94 in Istanbul by the lower-ranked (#4) Fenerbahce Ulker in the group G of Euroleague. It was Unics Kazan''s third consecutive loss in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. This year Savrasenko''s total stats are: 4.3ppg and 2.9rpg in the 16 games. He holds both Greek and Russian passports as he used to play in Greece. Savrasenko previously played for the Russian National Team.

   #6. Elias Mouratidis (183-G-92) was not able to secure a victory for KFUM Blackebergs (9-10) in their game against Taby Basket in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. He was the second best scorer with 17 points. Mouratidis also added 5 assists and 3 steals in a mere 19 minutes. Mouratidis averaged so far: 13.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg and 2.0spg. He holds both Greek and Swedish passports as he used to play in Greece.

   #7. Dusan Vukcevic (200-F-75, agency: Interperformances) was not able to secure a victory for Tezenis Verona (9-12) in their game against S.Antimo in the Italian Lega2 (second division). Vukcevic scored 8 points. Vukcevic''s stats this year are: 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.3apg in the 20 games. He holds both Serbian and Serbian passports as he used to play in Greece.

   #8. Kosta Karamatskos (197-G-86) was not able to secure a victory for Saar-Pfalz Braves (6-17) in their game against Crailsheim Merlins in the German ProA (second division). Karamatskos scored 6 points and added 6 passes in 33 minutes. Karamatskos'' total stats this season are: 8.8ppg, 3.1rpg and 3.2apg. He holds both Greek and German passports. Karamatskos previously played for the German National Team.

   #9. Angelo Tsagarakis (190-G-84) was not able to secure a victory for JL Bourg (11-12) in their game against Boulazac Basket in the French ProB (second division). He scored 9 points. Tsagarakis'' stats this year are: 13.6ppg, 1.3rpg and 2.5apg in the 18 games. He holds both Greek and French passports. Tsagarakis previously played for the French National Team.

   #10. Nick Livas (198-G-88, college: Ill.-Springfield) contributed to a Prievidza''s victory against the fifth-ranked Svit 103-67 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Saturday. He recorded only 4 points. : 5.0ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.2spg in the five games. Livas is a naturalized American.

Milos Bojovic arrives for PAOK - by Giorgos Diploidis
Milos Bojovic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) is the new signing of PAOK Thessaloniki The team was looking for a shooting guard after the departure of Giannis Kalampokis for Alba. His replacement will be Milos Bojovic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket).
Bojovic is expected to come in Thessaloniki today (02/03/2012) and he may take time in the game of PAOK against Panathinaikos in Athens.

Now the team of Thessaloniki will have three Serbian because except Bojovic, they are already in the team Uros Duvnjak (190-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Milutin Aleksic (203-F-82)

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ICELAND

Best performance of Icelandic players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Icelandic players who are playing abroad.

Logi Gunnarsson

#1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international guard Logi Gunnarsson (190-81), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan. He could not help Solna Vikings (17-15) to beat LF Basket despite his very good performance on Tuesday. Gunnarsson was the top scorer with 30 points. He also added 4 rebounds in 37 minutes. But Solna Vikings (#7) was edged 80-82 on the road by the higher-ranked (#4) LF Basket. It was Solna Vikings'' fourth consecutive loss in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This season Gunnarsson has very high stats. he averages: 16.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.6apg, 2FGP: 46.4%, 3FGP: 37.7% and FT: 89.2%. Gunnarsson played for the Icelandic national team three years ago.

Hlynur Baeringsson

#2. Number two best Icelandic player abroad this week is former international power forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82). He was the major contributor in a Sundsvall Dragons'' victory against the fifth-ranked Boras Basket 88-86 in the Swedish Basketligan last Monday. Baeringsson had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 12 rebounds. He also added 12 rebounds4 assists. Sundsvall Dragons (19-12) is placed third in the Basketligan. It was Sundsvall Dragons'' sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Baeringsson is currently first on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this year: 14.4ppg, 10.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 56.4%(123-218), 3FGP: 33.9% and FT: 76.2% in the 29 games he played so far. Baeringsson played for the Icelandic senior national team three years ago.

Jakob Sigurdarson

#3. Third place goes to former international guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern) is a teammate of previously mentioned Hlynur Baeringsson as their both played in the Swedish Basketligan last game. Sigurdarson led Sundsvall Dragons to an overtime victory over the seventh-ranked Solna Vikings 98-96. He was MVP of the game. Sigurdarson recorded 23 points and added 3 assists in 38 minutes. Sundsvall Dragons (19-12) is placed third in the Basketligan. It was Sundsvall Dragons'' sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Sigurdarson is currently third on the league''s list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Sigurdarson averages: 19.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 40.4% and FT: 92.2%(94-102). He played for the Icelandic national team in 2009.

Darrel Lewis

#4. Guard Darrel Lewis (192-76, college: Lincoln, MO) led OFI to a victory over the 15th-ranked Pagrati 87-83 in the Greek A2 (second division) last Saturday. Lewis was the best player in that game. He scored 18 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. OF Irakleio (11-9) is placed eighth in the A2. It was OFI''s third consecutive victory in a row. Lewis has relatively good stats this year: 14.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.2apg and 1.6spg in the 20 games. He is a naturalized American. Lewis used to play for the Icelandic national team back in 2005.

Axel Karason

#5. Former an international forward Axel Karason (193-83) contributed to a Vaerlose''s victory against the sixth-ranked Aabyhoj 73-70 in the Danish Ligaen last Sunday. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 40 minutes. Vaerlose BBK (11-16) is placed seventh in the Ligaen. Karason''s team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. This season Karason has relatively solid stats: 11.9ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.1apg.

Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson

#6. Guard Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (188-88) contributed to a Mitteldeutscher BC''s victory against the fifth-ranked Webmoebel Baskets 91-79 in the German ProA (second division) last Saturday. He scored 6 points. Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (18-4) is placed first in the ProA. Vilhjalmsson has reliable stats this year: 11.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.5apg and 1.1spg in the 22 games. He is a former international player as he played for the Icelandic senior team three years ago.

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Grindavik		16-1
2. Stjarnan		12-6
3. Keflavik		12-6
4. KR		11-6
5. Thor Thorl		11-6
6. Snaefell		9-9
7. Tindastoll		9-9
8. Njardvik		8-10
9. Fjolnir		7-10
10. IR		6-11
11. Haukar		4-14
12. Valur		0-17

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Cameron ECHOLS
  Njardvik
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 23.6

1. Echols, Njardvik	23.6
2. Walkup, Fjolnir	23.1
3. Dagostino, Keflavik	22.9
4. Govens, Thor Thorl	22.9
5. Shuler, Haukar	22.7
6. Holmes, Njardvik	22.6
7. Johnson, Valur	22.0
8. Jarvis, IR	21.9
9. Bullock, Grindavik	21.9
10. Sovic, IR	21.7

Rebounds Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 15.6

1. Hairston, Thor T.	15.6
2. Hankins-Cole, Snae.	13.1
3. Smith, Haukar	11.5
4. Echols, Njardvik	11.5
5. Ringgold, Thor Tho.	11.3
6. Walkup, Fjolnir	10.7
7. Tratnik, Valur	10.4
8. Bullock, Grindavik	10.4
9. Shuler, Haukar	10.0
10. Cole, Keflavik	9.9

Assists Per Game

Giordan WATSON
  Grindavik
  (178-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Watson, Grindavik	6.7
2. Shouse, Stjarnan	6.7
3. Miller, Tindastoll	6.7
4. Hall, Snaefell	5.8
5. Pauline, Haukar	5.2
6. Dagostino, Keflavik	4.8
7. Brown, KR	4.7
8. O''Neil, Fjolnir	4.6
9. Fridriksson, Njard.	4.6
10. Haraldsson, Haukar	4.6

Steals Per Game

Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Holmes, Njardvik	3.1
2. Hall, Snaefell	2.8
3. Cothran, Stjarnan	2.6
4. Shouse, Stjarnan	2.5
5. Allen, Tindastoll	2.5
6. Shuler, Haukar	2.5
7. Parker, Keflavik	2.3
8. Brown, KR	2.3
9. Pauline, Haukar	2.3
10. Miller, Tindastoll	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Hairston, Thor T.	4.8
2. Smith, Haukar	3.4
3. Hugee, Valur	2.3
4. Tratnik, Valur	2.2
5. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.3
6. Hampton, Tindastoll	1.3
7. Ferguson, KR	1.3
8. Ragnarsson, Fjolnir	1.1
9. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.	1.1
10. Holmes, Njardvik	1.1

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IRAN

Slavko Vranes joins Mahram - by Eurobasket News
Mahram bolstered their frontcourt prior to the WABA League semifinal series versus Zob Ahan. They landed Slavko Vranes (230-C-83, agency: Beo Basket). The centre is meant to replace injured Pape Sow (207-F-81, college: CS Fullerton). The Montenegrin player started the season with Sanaye Petrochimi. Last season Slvako Vranes spent in Russia. He played for Unics Kazan. The centre tallied 1.4 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in PBL. In VTB League his stats read 5.2 points, 2.4 boards and 1.1 blocks. In EuroCup Slavko Vranes delivered 2.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per appearance. Previously Savko Vranes had stints in Serbia, Montenegro and NBA. He has been the member of Montenegrin National Team since 2008.

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ISRAEL

Knicks' Jared Jeffries, An Inspiration to Jewish Students - by David Pick
Twenty four hours after helping the New York Knicks secure a home victory against the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers, dropping eight-points and collecting five-boards, Jared Jeffries stopped by Ramaz, the private Modern Orthodox Jewish prep school in Manhattan, for the school's Sports Book Day, in what turned out to be, not only for Ramaz, but for Jeffries too a lifetime experience.

Jeffries inspired the students with his personal life story, encouraging them to work hard, dream big, focus on team work and never forget the importance of a good deed. He also shared with his 13-15 year old audience how he spends spare time with teammate Jeremy Lin, whose confidence in his ability did not wane even when he was mostly sitting on the bench, he admires. While answering students' questions, Jeffries revealed that in his spare time he enjoys hanging out and playing video games with Lin and not sleeping on his couch.

Jeffries' father served in the U.S. military and since he was young, Jeffries dreamt of being a fighter pilot. However, by junior high school, he was so tall, he realized fitting comfortably into a plane was just not in his cards, so he pursued basketball instead. When a student asked how he handles losing streaks, Jeffries remembered crying when he was 9 years old, after losing a basketball game. His 6-foot-7, 300 lbs father gently admonished him 'what are you going to do, cry every time you lose a game?' and after that, Jeffries never did. He just focuses on the big picture, at being a team player and meeting his personal benchmarks, rather than how many wins and losses the team accrued.

Jeffries highlighted the importance of education and perseverance. 'Getting the right education is the key to success,' Jeffries said. 'Everyone dreams that they will be the star that's discovered, but if you are not working at something with passion, you won't excel.' Jeffries recounted that in school, he was excellent at recalling historical facts and dates but math was not exactly his forte so he assumed the role of 'class clown.'

But the Knicks' 6-foot-11 center explained how he still excelled as a pupil, attaining a 3.9 grade average and 'always taking school seriously.' Jeffries described how his academic success opened doors for all sorts of scholarship offers and opportunities.

'It's important to push yourself really hard in anything, because if you don't, you won't make it, and that's why I'm in the gym constantly,' he told the students. In addition to the five hours each day of basketball training during the NBA off season, Jeffries said he sets his alarm clock to 6:00 a.m. to go fishing near his home in Florida.

He also revealed some of the Knicks' pre-game rituals, which he jokingly described as OCD; he ties his left shoe, then his right, then unties and reties his shoes. Another teammate covers the floors with towels, but Jeffries particularly enjoys the teams group huddles.

If one thought Carmelo Anthony or Lin-sanity was on the top of Jeffries' players list, the Knickerbocker answered who he thought was, 'the best player in the world?'

'Kobe Bryant is the best basketball player around.'

As far as good deeds and giving back to the community goes, something that's a big part of Judaism, Jeffries manages to shine even more then he does on the court. He recounted the various charitable endeavors in which he participates, such as sponsoring basketball scholarships in his hometown in Indiana and raising and donating funds for victims of childhood leukemia, an illness which unfortunately, took the life of a relative. Jeffries also donates his time and resources to The Kidney Foundation and to NAACP, a civil rights organization for ethnic minorities in the United States.

'Jared was great,' a Ramaz staff member told Eurobasket. 'He was so intelligent, nice and not conceited at all, the kids loved him. He's down to earth, smart, very modest, well spoken and all about a great work ethic. A real great guy.'

Top Israeli players abroad based on last week''s performance - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Israeli players who are playing abroad.

Afik Nissim

#1. The best performed Israeli player this week who plays abroad is an international point guard Afik Nissim (180-81, agency: Beo Basket). He was the major contributor in a Krka''s victory against the closely-ranked Banvit BK 78-73 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Nissim scored 12 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 23 minutes. Krka Novo Mesto (1-5) is placed fourth in group K. The Top 16 already ended in the Eurocup. This year Nissim averages: 8.3ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 38.5%, 3FGP: 35.7% and FT: 93.8%(15-16) in the six games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Israeli and French. Nissim is currently a member of the senior Israeli National Team.

Omri Casspi

#2. The second best is an international swingman Omri Casspi (204-88). He contributed to a Cleveland Cavaliers'' victory against the Sacramento Kings 93-92 in the NBA last Sunday. Casspi scored 6 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a solid 13-20 record this season. Casspi''s overall stats this season are: 7.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 47.8%, 3FGP: 31.1% and FT: 63.2%. He is in the roster of the senior Israeli National Team.

Oded Brandwein

#3. Number three best Israeli player abroad this week is former international guard Oded Brandwein (188-88, agency: N.E.T.). Brandwein contributed to a Kotwica''s victory against the eighth-ranked LKS Sphinx 87-63 in the Polish PLK last Saturday. He recorded 9 points and added 4 assists. Kotwica Kolobrzeg (13-12) is placed second in Group B. It was Kotwica''s first victory after five consecutive loses. Brandwein has relatively good stats this season: 11.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 38.3%, 3FGP: 39.3%. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish as he used to play in Israel. Brandwein played for the Israeli senior national team four years ago.

Robert Rothbart

   #4. Center Robert Rothbart (217-86), who plays in Slovenia could not help Union Olimpija (11-10) to beat Radnicki Kragujevac. Rothbart cannot count it as his best performance. He scored only 2 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in just 8 minutes. the eighth-placed Union Olimpija Ljubljana (11-10) was defeated 76-88 on the road by the lower-ranked (#9) Radnicki Kragujevac in the group A of Adriatic League. It was Union Olimpija''s third consecutive loss in a row. This year Rothbart''s overall stats are: 5.1ppg and 3.1rpg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Israeli national team back in 2010.

There are also other players who performed very well, but have never been selected to any national team and who carry Israeli passport:

   #1. Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) contributed to an Atenas'' victory against the 15th-ranked Quilmes MP 81-78 in the Argentinian LigaA last Friday. Sucatzky recorded 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists in 20 minutes. Atenas Cordoba (15-11) is placed sixth in the LigaA. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. Sucatzky is ranked sixth on the list of the best passers in the league. This year his overall stats are: 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.9apg in the 39 games he played so far. Sucatzky has a dual citizenship: Israeli and Argentinian. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the Israeli team.

   #2. Jason Thomas (191-G-82, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: American), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan could not help Boras Basket (18-14) to beat Sundsvall Dragons despite his very good performance on Monday. He recorded 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 27 minutes. But Boras Basket (#5) was edged 86-88 on the road by the higher-ranked (#3) Sundsvall Dragons. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This year Thomas has relatively solid stats: 11.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg and 1.2spg in the 31 games. He is a naturalized American.

   #3. Guy Aud (182-G-89) contributed to a Licher Baeren''s victory against the fourth-ranked BSW Sixers 86-64 in the German ProB (third division) last Saturday. He scored 16 points, made 4 passes and 4 steals. Licher Basket Baeren (11-11) is placed ninth in Group South. The Regular Season already ended. It''s Aud''s first season with the team. Aud''s overall stats this season are: 9.4ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.0apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and German as he used to play in Israel. Aud is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market.

   #4. Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) contributed to a Svendborg''s victory against the leader Bakken 81-70 in the Danish Ligaen last Thursday. Colman scored only 4 points and added 4 passes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Svendborg Rabbits (23-4) is placed second in the Ligaen. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Colman is currently fifth on the league''s list of best passers. This season he has very high stats. Colman averages: 15.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 4.6apg and 1.2spg. He has both Israeli and Danish nationalities as he used to play in Israel. Colman previously played for the Danish National Team.

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ITALY

Linsanity in Italy? It almost happened - by Eurobasket News
Linsanity in Italy?

It almost happened.

Jeremy Lin (191-PG-88, college: Harvard) said he considered signing with Italian club Banca Tercas Teramo just before the NBA lockout ended in late November.

'I was close. I was extremely close', Lin said after putting up 19 points, 13 assists and one turnover in the Knicks 120-103 come-from-behind win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

'I actually booked a flight to go back to California so I could get my visa done and everything so I could go to Italy.'

'But then the team signed [former Hofstra star] Charles Jenkins and they rescinded the deal and then I found out that they offered it to him. I think it was him, so then I was like, Ok, no more Italy. And then the lockout ended a couple days later so it was perfect.'

Lucky for the Knicks.

Lin remained in the U.S. and was waived by both the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets before the Knicks picked him up Dec. 27.

Now they are 10-3 since Linsanity began Feb 4.

Courtesy of www.zagsblog.com

White, Easley, Polonara and Coleman to compete in the Slam Dunk Contest - by Andrea Centenari
James White (199-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) (Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro), Tony Easley (206-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Murray St.) (Banco di Sardegna Sassari), Aubrey Coleman (193-G-87, college: Houston) (Angelico Biella) and Achille Polonara (203-F-91) (Banca Tercas Teramo) will compete in the Slam Dunk Contest during the italian All-Star game that will take place on the 11 of March at the Adriatic Arena of Pesaro. James White win the last edition of this competition and will defend the title this year.
The winner of the contest will win a Xenter 125 scooter by Yamaha which is the main sponsor of the event.

Viktor Sanikidze injured his left ankle - by Andrea Centenari
Canadian Solar Bologna forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86, agency: World Sport Agency) injured his left ankle during yesterday practice. The georgian player left the practice using crutches and will probably miss the next Serie A game against Cimberio Varese. The doctors are evaluating him and in the next hours the timeline for his recovery will be known.
Sanikidze actually is the best rebounder (10,7 rpg) of the italian league averaging also 13 points per game.

stats leader

Points Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.8

1. Musso, Napoli	19.8
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	17.4
3. Ferrarese, Castell.	15.2
4. Portannese, Torino	15.1
5. Benevelli, Orlandi.	15.0
6. Prandin, Casalp.	15.0
7. Mei, Comsum.it SI	14.7
8. Carrizo, Ferentino	14.6
9. Tessitori, Comsum..	14.4
10. Poltroneri, Perug.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Rossi, Chieti	12.7
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.6
3. Borra, Treviglio	8.5
4. Gandini, Trieste	8.3
5. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.3
6. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	8.2
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	8.2
8. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.1
9. Iannuzzi, Ferentino	7.8
10. Raminelli, Castel.	7.5

Assists Per Game

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

1. Bertolazzi, Omegna	4.5
2. Musso, Napoli	4.1
3. Stanic, Fabriano	3.6
4. Guarino, Ferentino	3.4
5. Santolamazza, Ana.	3.2
6. Vico, Matera	3.0
7. Ferrarese, Castell.	3.0
8. Forray, Trento	2.8
9. Zanelli, Orlandina	2.8
10. Parente, Torino	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Iardella, Fabriano	3.2
2. Bertolazzi, Omegna	3.0
3. Maggio, Pavia	2.9
4. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
5. Rivali, Santarcang.	2.8
6. Musso, Napoli	2.8
7. Rossi, Chieti	2.7
8. Truccolo, Perugia	2.7
9. Cazzaniga, Pavia	2.7
10. Portannese, Torino	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.7
2. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.6
3. Borra, Treviglio	1.5
4. Gandini, Trieste	1.1
5. Pascolo, Trento	1.1
6. Candido, San Seve.	1.1
7. Raminelli, Castell.	1.0
8. Cazzaniga, Pavia	1.0
9. Tessitori, Comsum..	1.0
10. Corral, Anagni	0.9

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trento		18-8
2. Trieste		18-8
3. Perugia		11-14
4. Santarcangelo		9-17
5. Firenze		7-19
6. Comsum.it SI		7-19
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		23-4
2. Torino		18-9
3. Treviglio		16-10
4. Casalpusterlengo		15-11
5. Pavia		14-13
6. Castelletto		9-17
Div.South-East
1. Recanati		14-11
2. Bari		14-12
3. Chieti		13-13
4. San Severo		11-15
5. Fabriano		7-18
6. Ruvo		3-23
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		22-5
2. Orlandina		16-10
3. Ferentino		14-11
4. Latina Basket		12-14
5. Matera		11-14
6. Anagni		10-15

Best performance of Italian players abroad in last week games - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Italian players who are playing abroad.

Marco Belinelli

   #1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international guard Marco Belinelli (196-86). He was the major contributor in a New Orleans Hornets'' victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers 89-84 in the NBA last Wednesday. Belinelli scored 19 points in 33 minutes. The New Orleans Hornets have rather weak 8-27 record this season. Belinelli has relatively good stats this season: 11.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 45.7%, 3FGP: 36.6% and FT: 80.3%. He is in the roster of the senior Italian National Team.

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

   #1. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) led Obras to a victory over the 13th-ranked Boca Juniors 90-85 in the Argentinian LigaA last Wednesday. Gutierrez was MVP of the game. He recorded 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Obras Sanitarias Buenos Aires (19-7) is placed first in the LigaA. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. Gutierrez belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #2 and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). He has very impressive stats this year: 17.5ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.8apg and 1.2bpg in the 40 games he played so far. Gutierrez has a dual citizenship: Italian and Argentinian. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team and is probably not eligible to play for the Italian team.

   #2. Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Juan Gutierrez and both played together in the last Argentinian LigaA game. Mazzaro contributed to an Obras'' victory against the 13th-ranked Boca Juniors 90-85. He recorded 19 points in a mere 18 minutes. Obras Sanitarias Buenos Aires (19-7) is placed first in the LigaA. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. It''s Mazzaro''s first season with the team. This season Mazzaro has relatively solid stats: 13.1ppg, 2.2rpg and 1.5apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Italian and Argentinian as he used to play in Italy. Mazzaro previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #3. Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) led Quimsa to a victory over the 13th-ranked Boca Juniors 73-67 in the Argentinian LigaA last Friday. He was MVP of the game. Lo Grippo recorded 21 points. Asociacion Quimsa Santiago del Estero (14-12) is placed eighth in the LigaA. It was Quimsa''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be important. Lo Grippo has very impressive stats this year: 15.2ppg and 4.8rpg in the 40 games. He has both Italian and Argentinian nationalities. Lo Grippo previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #4. Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85) contributed to a Baloncesto Fuenlabrada''s victory against the fourth-ranked BK Pardubice 85-70 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. He scored 18 points and had 3 steals in a mere 19 minutes. Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (6-0) is placed first in group K. So far Baloncesto Fuenlabrada won all six games in the Top 16. Mainoldi''s team will play only one more game in the EuroChallenge Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. It''s Mainoldi''s fourth season with the team. This season he has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg and 4.7rpg. Mainoldi also holds two passports: Argentinian and Argentinian. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #5. Carlos Delfino (198-G-82), who plays in the NBA could not help the Milwaukee Bucks (14-21) to beat the Orlando Magic. Delfino recorded 8 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. the Milwaukee Bucks (14-21) were edged 90-93 on the road by the Orlando Magic. This year Delfino averages: 9.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.4apg and 1.5spg in the 33 games. He holds both Argentinian and Argentinian passports as he used to play in Italy. Delfino previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #6. Matias Lescano (196-G/F-79), who plays in the Argentinian LigaA could not help Atenas (15-11) to beat San Martin Corrientes despite his very good performance on Sunday. He scored 13 points, made 5 passes and 3 steals in 26 minutes. Lescano belongs to league''s most steals and is ranked #1. He has very reliable stats this season: 12.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg and 2.4spg. Lescano holds both Italian and Argentinian passports. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #7. Diego Gerbaudo (182-G-89), who plays in the Argentinian LigaA could not help Club 9 (8-18) to beat La Union despite his very good performance on Sunday. Gerbaudo was the top scorer with 20 points. He also added 4 boards, dished 6 assists and stole 3 balls. This year Gerbaudo averages: 9.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.4apg and 1.4spg in the 34 games. He holds both Italian and Argentinian passports. Gerbaudo previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #8. Maximiliano Stanic (178-G-78, agency: Players Group) faced previously mentioned Juan Gutierrez in the Argentinian LigaA last game. Stanic, who plays in the Argentinian LigaA could not help Boca Juniors (10-17) to beat Obras despite his very good performance on Wednesday. He was the second best scorer with 16 points. Stanic also added 8 rebounds and 6 assists in 30 minutes. Stanic is currently third on the league''s list of best passers. This season he averages: 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 5.6apg and 1.5spg. Stanic holds both Italian and Argentinian passports as he used to play in Italy. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

   #9. Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, college: Merrimack), who plays in the Argentinian LigaA could not help Regatas Corrientes (13-14) to beat Quilmes MP despite his very good performance on Tuesday. Zanotti was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 5 steals. This year Zanotti averages: 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.4spg in the seven games. He holds both Italian and Paraguayan passports as he used to play in Italy. Zanotti previously played for the Paraguayan National Team.

   #10. Diego Guaita (204-C-83) led Lanus to a victory over the 12th-ranked Olimpico de La Banda 77-71 in the Argentinian LigaA last Friday. He was MVP of the game. Guaita recorded 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. This season he averages: 8.7ppg and 3.7rpg. Guaita holds both Italian and Argentinian passports. He previously played for the Argentinian National Team.

Real Madird wins in Siena, not enough for Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi - Real Madrid 90-102

Real Madrid exploded in the last ten minutes to beat Montepaschi in Siena 90-102 in the last round of Euroleague Top 16 phase. However, despite this victory Real Madrid failed to reach the next stage due to the earlier Bilbao's win in Malaga, which forced the Whites to win by 23 points if they want to advance. Montepaschi is the winner of Group F, Bilbao is No.2 and Real Madrid is No.3. All three teams ended with the same 4-2 record. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) had double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds for the guests. Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) scored 15 and Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) added 14 points. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Tomas Ress (209-C-80, college: Texas A&M) had 15 points each for the hosts. David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) followed them with one less. Quarters: 28-26, 25-26, 22-24, 15-26. In the Quarterfinals, Montepaschi will take on Olympiakos. Real Madrid will now focus on Spanish Liga Endesa.

Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 15, Tomas Ress 15, David Moss 14
Real Madrid: Felipe Reyes 17+14 boards, Martynas Pocius 15, Nikola Mirotic 14

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

JAPAN

Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague

Points Per Game

Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Kawamura, Tochigi	20.4
2. Hale, Mitsubis.	17.4
3. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	16.8
4. Kanamaru, Panasoni.	16.4
5. Orimo, Hokkaido L.	16.2
6. McFarlin, Tochigi	15.8
7. Lewis, Hokkaido L.	14.0
8. Takeuchi, Hitac.	13.9
9. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	13.6
10. Ricci, Toyota Alv.	12.9

Rebounds Per Game

J.R. SAKURAGI
  Aishin SH
  (206-F/C-76)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	11.9
2. McFarlin, Tochigi	10.0
3. Takeuchi, Hitac.	9.7
4. Moss, Toshiba BT	8.8
5. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	8.3
6. Gibbs, Toyota A.	8.1
7. Hale, Mitsubis.	7.4
8. Ricci, Toyota Alva.	7.3
9. O''Bannon, Panason.	6.8
10. Allen, Mitsubis.	6.8

Assists Per Game

Ryota SAKURAI
  Hokkaido.
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 4.2

1. Sakurai, Hokkaido.	4.2
2. Kawamura, Tochigi	4.1
3. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	3.9
4. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	3.5
5. Kashiwagi, Aishin	3.2
6. Takeuchi, Hitac.	2.9
7. Watanabe, Panason.	2.8
8. Kashiwakura, Hitac.	2.8
9. Tabuse, Tochigi	2.6
10. Nishimura, Hitac.	2.5

Steals Per Game

Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Kawamura, Tochigi	1.8
2. Sato, Hitachi SR	1.7
3. Gibbs, Toyota A.	1.7
4. Kashiwagi, Aishin	1.6
5. Hirose, Panasoni.	1.5
6. Hale, Mitsubis.	1.5
7. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	1.4
8. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	1.4
9. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	1.3
10. Sakurai, Hokkaido.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Joji TAKEUCHI
  Hitac.
  (206-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Takeuchi, Hitac.	1.5
2. Richardson, Aishin	1.4
3. Ricci, Toyota Alva.	1.1
4. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	1.0
5. Takeuchi, Toyota	1.0
6. Aono, Panasonic T.	0.8
7. Hale, Mitsubis.	0.8
8. Merritt, Toshi.	0.8
9. Moss, Toshiba BT	0.8
10. McFarlin, Tochigi	0.7

Standings - JBL

JBL Standings

1. Aishin SH		26-9
2. Toyota Alvark		24-11
3. Hitachi SR		20-14
4. Panasonic T.		20-15
5. Hokkaido L.		16-19
6. Tochigi Brex		15-19
7. Mitsubishi DD		12-22
8. Toshiba BT		5-29

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

KOSOVO

Standings - Superleague

SuperLeague Standings

1. Trepca		15-1
2. Sigal Prishtina		14-2
3. Peja		9-7
4. Bashkimi		9-7
5. Kolegji Univer.		6-10
6. Kosova		5-11
7. Drita		3-13
8. Futura		3-13

Record breaking Peja smashes Bashkimi - by Dren Shporta
For the first time this season in a top four game all players from a team had been registered in a score sheet. From Sami Hajzeri, who scored 1 point to incalculable Mirza Ahmetbasic with 29 points, all players from yellow team scored in a perfect Peja play at Sezair Surroi in Prizren, to smash Bashkimi with 97:62 - to register an impressive record in BKT Superliga.

Coach Ivica Maric, has given a chance to all his bench during the third and fourth quarter, while all the lads were very impressive against oranges. Mirza Ahmetbasic has scored 5 three pointers from 8 attempts to create the difference which Bashkimi never caught. Super Mario Edwards (191-G, college: Co.Carolina) was very close to achieve triple double with his 15 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists, while Blerim Mazreku played well to block Charles Bronson under the table.

It was a very bad night for Naser Oskaceks team that played in empty Sezair Surroi court. Peja started perfectly with a series of 8:0, to keep and make the advantage higher during all the time. Samir Shaptahovic had 15 attempts out of 6.75m zone to score only one! While Rolando Little was the best in scoring for oranges with 25 points. Peja will host Drita in weekend, while Bashkimi visits college boys of Univers.

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

LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

1. Barons kvartals		22-2
2. BK VEF		21-2
3. Liepaja-2		21-3
4. Saldus		19-4
5. VEF Kadeti		14-8
6. BS Riga		13-10
7. RSU		13-10
8. VA		11-13
9. DSN		10-13
10. Ogres		8-16
11. Jelgava/LLU		8-17
12. Cesis		8-17
13. Livani		8-17
14. Valmiera BSS		6-17
15. Gulbene		6-20
16. Ridzene		3-22

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

LEBANON

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 29.9

1. Penigar, Byblos	29.9
2. Khatib, Champville	27.1
3. Spencer, Al Riyadi	26.9
4. Ebi, Anibal	24.8
5. Williams, Byblos	24.1
6. Colwell, Antranik	23.9
7. Oguchi, Hoops	23.3
8. Johnson, Sagesse	23.1
9. Gray, Byblos	22.1
10. Youngblood, Anibal	21.1

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Jamison, Bejjeh	14.6
2. Penigar, Byblos	12.8
3. Colwell, Antranik	11.1
4. Thompson, Champvil.	11.1
5. Crump, Sagesse	11.0
6. Ismail, Al Riyadi	10.5
7. Leather, Sagesse	10.3
8. Hoskin, Champville	10.1
9. Ebi, Anibal	9.3
10. Trim, Moutahed	9.2

Assists Per Game

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

1. Williams, Byblos	7.1
2. Akl, Anibal	6.9
3. Clemons, Hoops	6.3
4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi	6.3
5. Ismail, Al Riyadi	6.0
6. Johnson, Moutahed	5.8
7. Khatib, Champville	5.6
8. Young, Antranik	5.4
9. Gray, Byblos	5.4
10. Johnson, Sagesse	4.9

Steals Per Game

Vernon HAMILTON
  Hoops
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Hamilton, Hoops	3.2
2. Youngblood, Anibal	2.9
3. Clemons, Hoops	2.8
4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi	2.5
5. Johnson, Moutahed	2.5
6. Young, Antranik	2.3
7. Spencer, Al Riyadi	2.3
8. Estephane, Champvi.	2.2
9. Williams, Byblos	2.0
10. Ebi, Anibal	1.9

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Ebi, Anibal	2.9
2. Colwell, Antranik	2.2
3. Vogel, Al Riyadi	2.0
4. Ismail, Al Riyadi	1.8
5. Hamdar, Hoops	1.7
6. Thompson, Champvil.	1.5
7. Crump, Sagesse	1.3
8. Sabra, Byblos	1.3
9. Youngblood, Anibal	1.2
10. Leather, Sagesse	1.2

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings

1. Al Riyadi		18-1
2. Champville		17-1
3. Anibal		10-8
4. Sagesse		10-9
5. Byblos		8-11
6. Moutahed		7-12
7. Bejjeh		7-12
8. Hoops		5-14
9. Antranik		0-0

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

LIGA AMERICAS

Standings

Liga Americas Standings

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

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

LITHUANIA

Giedrius Staniulis carries Leitkabelis past Naglis Palangos - by Eurobasket News
Naglis Palangos - Lietkabelis 62:63

Leitkabelis made the first step towards Baltic League Challenge Cup Finals. They narrowly defeated Naglis Palangos on the road in the first game of the semifinal series. Giedrius Staniulis (205-C/F-91) hit a buzzer-beating jumper to propel the visitors to the victory. The second game of the series is scheduled for March 13th.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. Naglis eked out an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. Lietkabelis gradually took over in the second frame. The visitors used a 13:0 run to ensure a 32:24 lead. They finished the first half up by 7 points 38:31. Mockevicius and Vaidotas Peciukas (199-G-82, college: Hawaii) however erased the deficit and put Naglis Palangos back in front midway through the third term 46:44. The hosts entered the final period up by two points 47:45. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the final term before Pickett made it 62:61 for Naglis with 7 seconds remaining. Lietkabelis used the remaining time wisely setting up the final shot for Giedrius Staniulis and stealing a narrow win at the end. Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89, agency: Interperformances) fired 22 points to lead the effort. Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-G-89, agency: Alti Sport) and Giedrius Staniulis finished with 11 points each in the win. Tomas Rinkevicius (178-PG-78) answered with 12 points for Naglis. Vaidotas Peciukas had 11 points in the loss.

Naglis Palangos: Tomas Rinkevicius 12, Vaidotas Peciukas 11
Lietkabelis: Vaidas Cepukaitis 22, Sarunas Vasiliauskas 11, Giedrius Staniulis 11

NKL Round 9 (Second Stage): Radviliskis defeat Triobet in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Eighth-ranked Triobet (20-19) gave a tough game to first ranked Radviliskis (26-13) in Jonava on Friday. The visitors from Radviliskis managed to secure only one-point victory 67-66. However their fans expected much easier game. Triobet was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Radviliskis made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Forward Audrius Mineikis (201-F-77) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and center Juozas Ramanauskas (207-85) chipped in 7 points and 15 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Triobet's coach Kestutis Narusevicius rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Radviliskis maintains first place in with 26-13 record. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 19 games lost. Radviliskis are looking forward to face Matinga-Juod. (#5) in Marijampole in the next round. Triobet will play on the road against the league's second-placed LKKA-Atletas (#2) in Kaunas and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Nafta Universitetas (24-15) against seventh ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (22-17) on Friday night. Visiting Nafta Universitetas was defeated by Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas 86-75. Guard Justas Tamulis (194-94) nailed 19 points for the winning side and Simonas Kymantas accounted for 9 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Donatas Norkus (196-90) came up with 12 points and 9 rebounds for Nafta Universitetas in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Zalgiris-Sabonio moved-up to sixth place in . Nafta Universitetas at the other side dropped to the third position with 15 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against higher ranked Delikatesas (#4) in Joniskis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against Mazeikiai and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Silute (15-24) outlasted Ezerunas-Karys (19-20) in overtime by eleven points 86-75 on Friday night. The best player for the winners was Evaldas Saulys who scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Justas Narusis who recorded 19 points. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Silute maintains fourteenth place in with 15-24 record. Newly promoted Ezerunas-Karys keeps the eleventh position with 20 games lost. Silute will meet higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#10) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ezerunas-Karys will play against ABRO-Universitetas in Siauliai and hope to secure a win.
The game in Marijampole was also worth to mention about. 4th placed Delikatesas (22-17) played at the court of sixth ranked Matinga-Juod. (22-17). Matinga-Juod. managed to secure a 8-point victory 84-76. It was a good game for Marius Valukonis who led his team to a victory with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Matinga-Juod. moved-up to fifth place in . Matinga-Juod.'s next round opponent will be league's leader Radviliskis on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Delikatesas will play against Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Mazeikiai was also quite interesting. Third ranked LKKA-Atletas (24-15) played at the court of 5th ranked Mazeikiai (22-17). LKKA-Atletas defeated Mazeikiai 100-87 on Friday. Vidmantas Sragauskis stepped up and scored 35 points (!!!) (on 15-of-18 shooting from the field) for the winners. LKKA-Atletas' coach Edas Nickus used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. LKKA-Atletas moved-up to second place in . Loser Mazeikiai dropped to the seventh position with 17 games lost. LKKA-Atletas will face Triobet (#9) in Jonava in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mazeikiai will play on the road against Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 9: S.Marciulionio won against Meresta on the opponent's court 99-91. Bottom-ranked ABRO-Univ. unfortunately lost to Statyba in a home game 65-80. Perlas-MRU recorded a loss to Gargzdai on the road 81-84.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 24 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists by Osvaldas Olisevicius of S.Marciulionio.

Group A

Matinga-Juod. - Delikatesas 84-76

The game in Marijampole was also worth to mention about. 4th placed Delikatesas (22-17) played at the court of sixth ranked Matinga-Juod. (22-17). Matinga-Juod. managed to secure a 8-point victory 84-76. The hosts were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. It was a good game for forward Marius Valukonis (198-88) who led his team to a victory with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) contributed with 15 points and 5 assists for the winners. Guard Vidmantas Uzkuraitis (189-85) answered with 23 points and 8 rebounds and center Tautvydas Slezas (207-90, agency: Interperformances) added 16 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Delikatesas. Matinga-Juod. moved-up to fifth place in . Matinga-Juod.'s next round opponent will be league's leader Radviliskis on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Delikatesas will play against Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: M.Valukonis 25+8reb+2ast, Z.Kuklierius 15+3reb+5ast, A.Birgelis 12+4reb+3ast, K.Pupinis 9+5reb+2ast, P.Gvazdaitis 6+3reb, M.Kalvelis 6+3reb
Delikatesas: V.Uzkuraitis 23+8reb+2ast, T.Slezas 16+11reb+5ast, A.Kvedaravicius 10+9reb+2ast, V.Jatulevicius 7+3reb, P.Klemas 6+2reb+6ast, M.Keras 6+2reb+1ast

Mazeikiai - LKKA-Atletas 87-100

The game in Mazeikiai was also quite interesting. Third ranked LKKA-Atletas (24-15) played at the court of 5th ranked Mazeikiai (22-17). LKKA-Atletas defeated Mazeikiai 100-87 on Friday. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 55-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. LKKA-Atletas shot 67.3 percent from the field. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. LKKA-Atletas looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Mazeikiai's players. Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) stepped up and scored 35 points (!!!) (on 15-of-18 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) chipped in 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. LKKA-Atletas' coach Edas Nickus used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was swingman Marijus Norkus (197-85) with 14 points and 6 rebounds and American swingman Calvin Brock (196-86, college: Illinois) scored 15 points. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. LKKA-Atletas moved-up to second place in . Loser Mazeikiai dropped to the seventh position with 17 games lost. LKKA-Atletas will face Triobet (#9) in Jonava in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mazeikiai will play on the road against Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 35+3reb+1ast, S.Vingelis 16+7reb+4ast, T.Urbonas 14+2reb+3ast, D.Gricius 13+7reb+1ast, E.Tviraga 12+4reb+3ast, P.Malasauskas 4+5ast
Mazeikiai: C.Brock 15+4reb+2ast, J.Jurgo 14+4reb+2ast, M.Norkus 14+6reb+1ast, M.Stasys 13+1reb+2ast, D.Vaitelis 10+5reb+1ast, P.Brown 9+4reb+3ast

Zalgiris-Sabonio - Nafta Universitetas 86-75

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Nafta Universitetas (24-15) against seventh ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (22-17) on Friday night. Visiting Nafta Universitetas was defeated by Zalgiris-Sabonio in Kaunas 86-75. The game was mostly controlled by Zalgiris-Sabonio. Nafta Universitetas was better in third quarter 23-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Zalgiris-Sabonio won last quarter 23-14. Nafta Universitetas was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Justas Tamulis (194-94) nailed 19 points for the winning side and power forward Simonas Kymantas (204-93) accounted for 9 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Donatas Norkus (196-90) came up with 12 points and 9 rebounds and forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Nafta Universitetas in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Zalgiris-Sabonio moved-up to sixth place in . Nafta Universitetas at the other side dropped to the third position with 15 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against higher ranked Delikatesas (#4) in Joniskis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Nafta Universitetas will play at home against Mazeikiai and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris-Sabonio: J.Tamulis 19+3reb+1ast, M.Grigonis 17+2ast, R.Jakstas 13+4reb, V.Kariniauskas 10+4reb+5ast, S.Kymantas 9+10reb+1ast, R.Simanavicius 8+5reb+2ast
Nafta Universitetas: H.Venskus 12+3reb+2ast, D.Norkus 12+9reb, D.Zvinklys 12+5reb, J.Kazakauskas 11+5reb+2ast, V.Chodosovskis 10+4reb, A.Gudaitis 8+7reb+1ast

Triobet - Radviliskis 66-67

Eighth-ranked Triobet (20-19) gave a tough game to first ranked Radviliskis (26-13) in Jonava on Friday. The visitors from Radviliskis managed to secure only one-point victory 67-66. However their fans expected much easier game. Triobet was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Radviliskis made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Forward Audrius Mineikis (201-77) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and center Juozas Ramanauskas (207-85) chipped in 7 points and 15 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) scored 9 points and 12 rebounds. Triobet's coach Kestutis Narusevicius rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Radviliskis maintains first place in with 26-13 record. Triobet at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 19 games lost. Radviliskis are looking forward to face Matinga-Juod. (#5) in Marijampole in the next round. Triobet will play on the road against the league's second-placed LKKA-Atletas (#2) in Kaunas and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: A.Mineikis 17+10reb+3ast, T.Rakauskas 16+2reb+1ast, E.Zukauskas 8+6reb+1ast, L.Valantinas 7+1reb, J.Ramanauskas 7+15reb+2ast, M.Pukinskas 5+3reb+2ast
Triobet: T.Sebeziovas 16+9reb+4ast, P.Vaitiekunas 12+8reb+1ast, M.Linkevicius 9+12reb+3ast, R.Cepanonis 9+4reb, R.Juknevicius 8+2reb, H.Vorotnikovas 5+2reb

Group B

Silute - Ezerunas-Karys 86-75 OT

Silute (15-24) outlasted Ezerunas-Karys (19-20) in overtime by eleven points 86-75 on Friday night. The hosts trailed by 8 points at the halftime before their 28-17 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 15-4. Silute made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Ezerunas-Karys turnovers. The best player for the winners was guard Evaldas Saulys (193-93) who scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Vitalis Pancerevas (185-87, college: Weatherford JC) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. Four Silute players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Justas Narusis (198-90) who recorded 19 points and center Marius Janisius (203-77) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Silute maintains fourteenth place in with 15-24 record. Newly promoted Ezerunas-Karys keeps the eleventh position with 20 games lost. Silute will meet higher ranked S.Marciulionio (#10) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ezerunas-Karys will play against ABRO-Universitetas in Siauliai and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Silute: E.Saulys 21+7reb+3ast, V.Pancerevas 18+6reb+2ast, I.Razutis 13+6reb+4ast, M.Tamasevicius 11+4reb+1ast, R.Rackauskas 9+2reb, A.Kaubrys 7+8reb+3ast
Ezerunas-Karys: J.Narusis 19+3reb, M.Janisius 14+7reb+1ast, G.Kulbis 13+5reb+2ast, M.Kugauda 7+10reb+1ast, R.Ambrulaitis 6+7reb+2ast, A.Slezas 5+2reb+1ast

Meresta - S.Marciulionio 91-99

Rather expected game in Pakruojis where 12th ranked Meresta (18-21) was defeated by tenth ranked S.Marciulionio (20-19) 99-91 on Friday. S.Marciulionio dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Meresta's 36. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and point guard Robertas Bitinas (182-84) chipped in 21 points and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was guard Saulius Raziulis (183-76, agency: Court Side) with 18 points and 6 assists and forward Audrius Maneikis (203-84, college: Motlow St. CC) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Five Meresta players scored in double figures. S.Marciulionio maintains tenth place in with 20-19 record. Loser Meresta keeps the twelfth position with 21 games lost. S.Marciulionio will face Silute (#14) at home in the next round. Meresta will play against Perlas-MRU in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
S.Marciulionio: N.Varnelis 22+12reb+6ast, R.Bitinas 21+4reb+6ast, E.Mockevicius 19+11reb, M.Pociukonis 9+2reb+1ast, J.Elvikis 8+1reb+1ast, V.Trepocka 8+3reb
Meresta: S.Raziulis 18+3reb+6ast, A.Maneikis 16+7reb+1ast, D.Griskenas 16+7reb, K.Artamonov 15+1reb+2ast, S.Slivka 13+2reb+2ast, L.Radavicius 10+3reb

ABRO-Univ. - Statyba 65-80

Very predictable result in Siauliai where ninth ranked Statyba (21-18) defeated bottom-ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-32) 80-65 on Friday. ABRO-Universitetas was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 27-9 charge of Statyba, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to ABRO-Universitetas' 36. They outrebounded ABRO-Universitetas 41-29 including 17 on the offensive glass. Guard Ovidijus Varanauskas (187-91) stepped up and scored 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and swingman Tadas Rinkunas (195-91) chipped in 12 points and 4 assists. Statyba's coach Gintautas Regina allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was guard Rokas Giedraitis (195-92) with 20 points and 6 rebounds and center Agnius Gurklys (205-88) scored 18 points. Statyba moved-up to eighth place in . Loser ABRO-Universitetas stay dead last with 32 lost games. Statyba will face Gargzdai-Bremena (#15) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ABRO-Universitetas will play against Ezerunas-Karys in Moletai.
Top scorers:
Statyba: O.Varanauskas 20+6reb+3ast, T.Rinkunas 12+3reb+4ast, V.Luksa 10+8reb+1ast, M.Paliukenas 7+3reb+3ast, R.Sugintas 6+6reb+1ast, A.Stakenas 6+4reb+1ast
ABRO-Univ.: R.Giedraitis 20+6reb+3ast, A.Gurklys 18+3reb+2ast, A.Kurauskas 9+3reb+8ast, V.Pikalavicius 7+7reb+3ast, E.Grikstas 5+3reb, A.Danusevicius 4+4reb+1ast

Gargzdai - Perlas-MRU 84-81

There was a minor upset when 13th ranked Perlas-MRU (18-21) was edged on the road by fifteenth ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (12-27) 84-81 on Friday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Perlas-MRU won fourth quarter 29-22. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Swingman Tadas Mazelis (194-92) stepped up and scored 26 points and 4 assists for the winners and forward Laurynas Lucinskas (201-93) chipped in 12 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward Antanas Udras (203-92) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds and power forward Mantas Virbalas (203-88) scored 19 points and 5 rebounds. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. Perlas-MRU's coach Mindaugas Sakalauskas let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Newly promoted Gargzdai-Bremena maintains fifteenth place in with 12-27 record. Loser Perlas-MRU keeps the thirteenth position with 21 games lost. Gargzdai-Bremena will face higher ranked Statyba (#8) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Gargzdai: T.Mazelis 26+2reb+4ast, L.Lucinskas 12+8reb+2ast, R.Jonelis 12+7reb+3ast, D.Matutis 9+1reb+2ast, M.Martinkus 8+2reb+4ast, E.Ramanauskas 7+10reb
Perlas-MRU: M.Virbalas 19+5reb+3ast, Z.Stankus 18+5reb+2ast, A.Udras 15+15reb+3ast, P.Semaska 11+2reb+4ast, M.Kazonas 8+2reb, K.Brusokas 5+1reb

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings

1. Radviliskis		26-13
2. LKKA-Atletas		24-15
3. Nafta Universitetas		24-15
4. Delikatesas		22-17
5. Matinga-Juod.		22-17
6. Zalgiris-Sabonio		22-17
7. Mazeikiai		22-17
8. Statyba		21-18
9. Triobet		20-19
10. S.Marciulionio		20-19
11. Ezerunas-Karys		19-20
12. Meresta		18-21
13. Perlas-MRU		18-21
14. Silute		15-24
15. Gargzdai		12-27
16. ABRO-Univ.		7-32

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Vaidas CEPUKAITIS
  Lietkabe.
  (207-C-89)
  Avg: 16.2

1. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	16.2
2. Valanciunas, Lietu.	16.1
3. Butkevicius, Rudup.	15.5
4. Urbonas, Juventus	15.3
5. Mazeika, Neptunas	14.9
6. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	14.6
7. Benn, Naglis Palan.	14.5
8. Vasylius, Siauliai	14.4
9. Hughes, Pieno Z.	13.5
10. Johnson, Naglis P.	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	10.5
2. Butkevicius, Rudup.	7.9
3. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.6
4. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.5
5. Petrukonis, Juven.	7.4
6. McClure, Kedainiai	7.3
7. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	6.8
8. Bowles, Siauliai	6.4
9. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	6.3
10. Adomaitis, Kedain.	6.1

Assists Per Game

Mantas KALNIETIS
  Zalgiris
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	5.3
2. Peciukeviciu., Sak.	5.2
3. Dainys, Neptunas	4.9
4. Rice, Lietuvos.	4.8
5. Broadus, Siauliai	4.6
6. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	4.0
7. Kelys, Pieno Z.	3.8
8. Maceina, Juventus	3.6
9. Kadziulis, Rudupis	3.5
10. Samenas, Sakalai	3.5

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

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

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game

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

1. Vingelis, LKKA-.	21.5
2. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	19.6
3. Birgelis, Matinga-.	18.2
4. Rakauskas, Radvili.	18.2
5. Varnelis, S.Marc.	18.1
6. Jucikas, AB.	17.8
7. Maneikis, Meresta	17.5
8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.	17.0
9. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	17.0
10. Brown, Mazeikiai	16.7

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	10.8
2. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.	8.8
3. Mineikis, Radvilis.	8.2
4. Urbonas, LK.	7.9
5. Linkevicius, Triob.	7.5
6. Ramanauskas, Radvi.	7.5
7. Jucikas, AB.	7.4
8. Kalvelis, Matinga-.	7.3
9. Pikalavicius, Deli.	7.3
10. Kazakauskas, Naf.	7.2

Assists Per Game

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

1. Sapiega, LK.	8.6
2. Kurauskas, AB.	5.5
3. Razutis, Silute	5.0
4. Semaska, Perla.	4.9
5. Malasauskas, LKKA.	4.6
6. Vileita, Perla.	4.5
7. Kuklierius, Mating.	4.4
8. Varanauskas, Stat.	4.3
9. Birgelis, Matinga-.	4.2
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri.	4.2

Steals Per Game

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

1. Razutis, Silute	2.8
2. Vileita, Perla.	2.5
3. Brown, Mazeikiai	2.3
4. Slivka, Meresta	2.2
5. Jogela, Zalgir.	2.1
6. Uzkuraitis, Delika.	2.0
7. Paliukenas, S.Marc.	1.9
8. Vasiliauskas, Trio.	1.8
9. Semaska, Perla.	1.8
10. Birgelis, Matinga.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Urbonas, LK.	2.8
2. Mockevicius, S.Mar.	1.8
3. Gudaitis, Gargzdai	1.7
4. Kaubrys, Silute	1.3
5. Krestinin, S.Marc.	1.1
6. Vaitiekunas, Triob.	1.1
7. Jucikas, AB.	1.1
8. Ramanauskas, Sil.	1.0
9. Kymantas, Zalgir.	1.0
10. Griskenas, Meresta	0.9

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

1. Lietuvos rytas		16-2
2. Zalgiris		14-0
3. Rudupis		14-3
4. Siauliai		12-6
5. Pieno Zvaigzdes		8-7
6. Baltai Kaunas		8-8
7. Kedainiai		6-11
8. Neptunas		6-11
9. Juventus		6-12
10. Sakalai		4-13
11. Lietkabelis		3-13
12. Naglis Palangos		3-14

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

NBA

Sources: Pierce, Allen drawing most trade interest - by Eurobasket News
With the trading deadline two weeks away, multiple league sources indicate that Paul Pierce (6'7''-F/G-77, college: Kansas) and Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) -- not Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) -- are drawing the most interest from potential trade partners.

And since players signed during the offseason are able to be traded beginning today, the Celtics -- just like every other team -- have even more options to choose from when it comes to making a deal.

As for the two most sought-after Celtics, Allen and Pierce, it's clear why each is indeed in demand.

Allen has a skillset -- the ability to shoot the ball -- that fits in with any team. And with a $10 million expiring contract, there are a number of teams that could benefit from adding the NBA's all-time 3-point shooting king. Among those believed to have some interest in Allen, are the Los Angeles Clippers. With the season-ending injury to Chauncey Billups, the Clippers have a huge void to fill at the shooting guard position.

As for Pierce, he still has two years remaining on his contract after this season (the final year is partially guaranteed), but he's still one of the better one-on-one scorers in the NBA. Adding a player like Pierce, either as a starter or coming off the bench, could provide some much-needed depth to a title contender or a playoff team looking to improve their standing. Some of the teams believed to have interest in Pierce include both of his hometown teams -- the Los Angeles Lakers and the Clippers -- as well as the Houston Rockets.

Complicating matters for all teams in the mood to make a deal, is Dwight Howard's situation in Orlando.

The Magic appear to be focused on trying to surround Howard with the kind of talent he wants to play with, rather than grant his request for a trade.

Until there's greater clarity on his situation, a number of teams are reluctant to make a major move.

One of the rumors that made the rounds recently involved Orlando and Golden State having talks about a deal that would send Monta Ellis to Orlando. But multiple reports out of the Bay Area shot that rumor down.

Ellis is a player who has been linked with the Celtics in the past, but the two sides are not currently in talks about a trade. In addition, a league source said the C's are not actively discussing a trade for Stephen Curry but have expressed some interest.

Other players that the C's have been linked with via trade recently include Minnesota's Michael Beasley and Dallas' Lamar Odom.

In terms of Beasley and Odom, it appears that Jermaine O'Neal would be the Celtics player most likely to be included in such a deal.

The Timberwolves would likely want more than O'Neal for Beasley, but that's not necessarily the case with the Mavs and Odom.

When the Celtics were pursuing a trade for David West, they needed a third team to pull the deal off. That third team was going to be Dallas, which would have received O'Neal if the deal would have happened.

O'Neal, who is out with a wrist injury, played for current Mavs coach Rick Carlisle when the two were with the Indiana Pacers.

But when it comes to acquiring any player via trade, it comes down to one thing: What are teams willing to give up?

So far, not enough to make Danny Ainge pull the trigger.

Courtesy of www.csnne.com

Hawks sign veteran center Erick Dampier for remainder of season - by Eurobasket News
Center Erick Dampier (6'11''-C-74, college: Mississippi St.), who has been with Atlanta on a pair of 10-day contracts, has signed with the Hawks for the remainder of the season.

The Hawks initially signed the 15-year veteran Feb. 9 when the team was short-handed at center following injuries to Al Horford and Jason Collins.

Horford, an All-Star last season, tore his left pectoral muscle in January and may miss the remainder of the regular season. He said Wednesday he has been cleared to begin rehabilitation. Collins sprained his left elbow Feb. 2 and could miss another two weeks.

The 36-year-old Dampier is averaging 1.8 rebounds in 5 minutes per game, playing behind Zaza Pachulia and Ivan Johnson at center.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Wolves' slow starts remain an issue - by Eurobasket News
Timberwolves coach Rick Adelman shrugged and sighed with a certain world weariness Wednesday night when asked once again if he's considering lineup changes to prevent almost nightly double-digit, first-quarter deficits.

He explained simply that he likes the size and energy of the group he brings off the bench --the same collection that scored 72 points (best in the NBA this season) in Tuesday's comeback victory over the Clippers -- even if Michael Beasley (6'10''-F-89, college: Kansas St.) doesn't seem to particularly like it.

Beasley scored 27 of those 72 points off the bench Tuesday and he was in that role yet again Wednesday against the Lakers, even though bench mate Derrick Williams was promoted to starter against the Lakers when Kevin Love fell ill and missed the game while Lakers star Kobe Bryant played on with a plastic mask protecting his broken nose.

'It's hard, I've never been in a position like this,' Beasley said about a reserve's role he has filled for the past 18 games. 'I've always been a starter. Coming off the bench is different. My minutes fluctuate. It's kind of weird. You just have to be professional about it, stay ready and work on my game. We've got so much talent on this team.'

He might not have to worry about such things -- at least not in Minnesota -- if you believe the national rumor mill that has the Wolves trading Beasley to anywhere from the Lakers, Boston, Houston or New Jersey for anything from a trade exception, a draft pick or a veteran player by the March 15 deadline.

'It's part of the game,' Beasley said. 'I've been traded once before. Nobody wants to get traded. I just play basketball, and if it happens, it happens.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Danny Ainge: I anticipate Rajon Rondo being here for long time - by Eurobasket News
Danny Ainge, despite another wave of Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) trade speculation, said this afternoon that he expects the all-star point guard to still be a Celtic following the March 15 trade deadline.

You never say never where Ainges willingness to make the right trade is concerned - especially in the case of a valuable asset like Rondo - but he is downplaying that possibility now.

I anticipate him being here for a long time, the Celtics president said when asked about Rondos immediate future.

Though the ever-stubborn Rondo has had his moments of petulance this season, most recently with a two-game suspension for throwing the ball at referee Sean Wright, Ainge insisted that the guards relationship with coach Doc Rivers has actually improved.

As documented in a Herald story last December, Rondo threw a bottle into a video screen during a team meeting during the playoffs last season in response to a critique by the Celtics coach.

Rondo and Doc get along fine, said Ainge. That doesnt mean there arent bumps in the road. But I think Rondo and Doc are actually better now than they have ever been. But there are other issues that concern us a lot more than that. Theres nothing new to this.

Ainge also said that he is not actively shopping Rondo, noting that his last active negotiation was with New Orleans last summer during his ill-fated attempt to trade for Chris Paul.

These rumors have never stopped, but I havent made a call mentioning Rondos name since last summer, said Ainge. That was during all of the Chris Paul stuff.

Now, this time of year youre going to get a lot of calls from other teams, he said. But thats just normal. I dont anticipate anything happening.

Courtesy of www.bostonherald.com

Dallas Mavericks notes: Cuban meets with Odom's agent - by Eurobasket News
Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) will miss his fourth straight game tonight at 7 when the Dallas Mavericks face the New Orleans Hornets inside the New Orleans Arena.

Odom left the Mavs on Feb. 22, the morning they played Odom's former team, the Los Angeles Lakers.

Odom went to be with his father, Joe Odom, who was ill.

But late last week, Joe Odom told TMZ that he only had an upset stomach, and that his son did spend the night with him on Feb. 22. So, where is the missing Maverick?

'He's just dealing with issues and like we do with anybody else that's had personal issues, our job is to try and help them out and not to comment beyond that,' owner Mark Cuban said. 'He's got to figure these out and that's what we're trying to help him do.'

Cuban met with Odom and Odom's agent, Jeff Schwartz, on Wednesday in Dallas at the W Hotel, where Odom lives.

A source said Odom has backed off his desire of wanting the Mavs to buy him out of his contract so he can return to Los Angeles and play for the Clippers, and that he wants to finish the season with the Mavs.

'We'll just keep on working with him, and when it's revolved, it's resolved,' Cuban said. 'Everybody deals with their own issues differently, so we'll see.'

Courtesy of www.star-telegram.com

Kobe on Wade's foul: 'He didn't mean to do it' - by Eurobasket News
A potential blood feud between Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) and Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) will apparently end with the blood.

His nose bloodied and broken by a hard foul from Wade during the third quarter of Sunday's NBA All-Star Game in Orlando, Kobe Bryant said late Wednesday night that he did not perceive any ill intent from the blow for the Heat guard, which also left Bryant with concussion symptoms.

Speaking following the Lakers' 104-85 Wednesday victory over the Timberwolves at Staples Center, Bryant said Wade simply is not the type who would play with an intent to injure.

'It was very simple. He didn't mean to do it. He's not that kind of person. He's a nicer guy than I am,' Bryant said after playing with a mask and scoring 31 points against the Timberwolves, a game played shortly after Bryant was cleared by the league's new protocol to return from concussion symptoms.

Bryant also sustained soft-tissue damage in his neck from Wade's foul.

Wade, having apologized directly to Bryant on Monday, said Thursday he appreciated Bryant's words.

'Like I said, Kobe knew it was no ill-intent on my part,' Wade said before the Heat faced the Trail Blazers. 'We have a pretty good relationship. It's just one of those things.'
Wade said that doesn't mean Sunday's game against the Lakers, the final stop on this three-game trip, still won't be heated.

'It doesn't matter,' he said, 'that game's going to be competitive no matter what. So I don't know no more that you can ask for than a Lakers-Heat matchup. You try to add some drama to it, but it's going to be a game that both teams are going to want to win and we're going to go at it, me and him, like we always do. I didn't play into the added drama and Kobe didn't, either.'

Bryant said it never was personal.

'We've been close friends for a long time,' Bryant said. 'Myself, (Carmelo Anthony) and him, we've been really, really close.

'All that matters is what our relationship is like, really. We communicated. It's all good. But here in L.A., I'm sure his perception has definitely been altered.'

To Bryant, it's case closed.

'It's always entertaining to me to hear people talk about our relationship as if they know really what's going on and try to say there's something between them and all this other stuff,' he said.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged it's a storyline that is not going to vanish.

'When we get there on Sunday, I'm sure it'll bubble back up,' he said. 'But Dwyane already expressed his feelings about it as unintentional, so we're moving on.'

Bryant admitted discomfort with the clear-plastic mask, likely to remain in it through Sunday's game.

'It just felt like it started sweating immediately inside,' he said. 'It felt like I had a sauna on my face.

'I was drinking my own sweat.'

Bryant continued on after Wade's foul during the All-Star Game, helping harass Heat forward LeBron James into a game-defining turnover that allowed Bryant's Western Conference team to emerge with the victory despite a James-driven comeback by the East.

Only after the All-Star Game was Bryant sent for an examination for a potential concession.

'I'm fine. I have no headaches,' Bryant said. 'Everything's just kind of in the neck.'

Bryant's concussion symptoms of headache and nausea were eventually tied to medication taken for the broken nose and whiplash.

Lakers coach Mike Brown joked before Wednesday's game that Bryant's appearance never was in doubt.

'Kobe is Kobe,' he said. 'I don't think he ever wants to sit out.

'So this is no different than at any time before. He's just a competitive guy. I don't care what it is. . . . If he has two broken legs, he's the type of guy that would say, 'Take this one and staple this one and let me get out there.' '

Courtesy of www.sunherald.com

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Philadelph.76		22-15
2. Boston C.		18-17
3. New York K.		18-18
4. Toronto R.		11-25
5. New Jersey N.		11-26
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		30-8
2. Indiana P.		22-12
3. Milwaukee B.		14-22
4. Cleveland C.		13-21
5. Detroit P.		12-25
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		28-8
2. Orlando M.		23-14
3. Atlanta H.		21-15
4. Washington W.		7-28
5. Charlotte B.		4-30
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		29-7
2. Denver N.		20-17
3. Portland TB		18-18
4. Minnesota T.		18-19
5. Utah Jazz		17-18
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		22-14
2. LA Clippers		21-13
3. Phoenix Suns		16-20
4. Golde State W.		14-19
5. Sacramento K.		12-24
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		25-11
2. Memphis G.		21-15
3. Dallas M.		21-16
4. Houston R.		21-16
5. N.Orleans H.		9-27

Heat's Bosh to sit two games after death in family - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) is not with the team because of a death in his family.

The Heat say that Bosh will miss Thursday night's game against the Portland Trail Blazers, and the team's game Friday night game at Utah. It was not yet certain whether he will miss Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bosh, who played in Sunday's All-Star game, is averaging 18.4 points and 8.4 rebounds. He had not missed a game this season until Thursday.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Knicks' Jared Jeffries, An Inspiration to Jewish Students - by David Pick
Twenty four hours after helping the New York Knicks secure a home victory against the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers, dropping eight-points and collecting five-boards, Jared Jeffries stopped by Ramaz, the private Modern Orthodox Jewish prep school in Manhattan, for the school's Sports Book Day, in what turned out to be, not only for Ramaz, but for Jeffries too a lifetime experience.

Jeffries inspired the students with his personal life story, encouraging them to work hard, dream big, focus on team work and never forget the importance of a good deed. He also shared with his 13-15 year old audience how he spends spare time with teammate Jeremy Lin, whose confidence in his ability did not wane even when he was mostly sitting on the bench, he admires. While answering students' questions, Jeffries revealed that in his spare time he enjoys hanging out and playing video games with Lin and not sleeping on his couch.

Jeffries' father served in the U.S. military and since he was young, Jeffries dreamt of being a fighter pilot. However, by junior high school, he was so tall, he realized fitting comfortably into a plane was just not in his cards, so he pursued basketball instead. When a student asked how he handles losing streaks, Jeffries remembered crying when he was 9 years old, after losing a basketball game. His 6-foot-7, 300 lbs father gently admonished him 'what are you going to do, cry every time you lose a game?' and after that, Jeffries never did. He just focuses on the big picture, at being a team player and meeting his personal benchmarks, rather than how many wins and losses the team accrued.

Jeffries highlighted the importance of education and perseverance. 'Getting the right education is the key to success,' Jeffries said. 'Everyone dreams that they will be the star that's discovered, but if you are not working at something with passion, you won't excel.' Jeffries recounted that in school, he was excellent at recalling historical facts and dates but math was not exactly his forte so he assumed the role of 'class clown.'

But the Knicks' 6-foot-11 center explained how he still excelled as a pupil, attaining a 3.9 grade average and 'always taking school seriously.' Jeffries described how his academic success opened doors for all sorts of scholarship offers and opportunities.

'It's important to push yourself really hard in anything, because if you don't, you won't make it, and that's why I'm in the gym constantly,' he told the students. In addition to the five hours each day of basketball training during the NBA off season, Jeffries said he sets his alarm clock to 6:00 a.m. to go fishing near his home in Florida.

He also revealed some of the Knicks' pre-game rituals, which he jokingly described as OCD; he ties his left shoe, then his right, then unties and reties his shoes. Another teammate covers the floors with towels, but Jeffries particularly enjoys the teams group huddles.

If one thought Carmelo Anthony or Lin-sanity was on the top of Jeffries' players list, the Knickerbocker answered who he thought was, 'the best player in the world?'

'Kobe Bryant is the best basketball player around.'

As far as good deeds and giving back to the community goes, something that's a big part of Judaism, Jeffries manages to shine even more then he does on the court. He recounted the various charitable endeavors in which he participates, such as sponsoring basketball scholarships in his hometown in Indiana and raising and donating funds for victims of childhood leukemia, an illness which unfortunately, took the life of a relative. Jeffries also donates his time and resources to The Kidney Foundation and to NAACP, a civil rights organization for ethnic minorities in the United States.

'Jared was great,' a Ramaz staff member told Eurobasket. 'He was so intelligent, nice and not conceited at all, the kids loved him. He's down to earth, smart, very modest, well spoken and all about a great work ethic. A real great guy.'

Sacramento releases financing plan for $391M arena to keep Kings - by Eurobasket News
All thats left to keep the Sacramento Kings in California's capital is a vote.

Sacramento released the full financing plan for a new arena Thursday night, setting the stage for next weeks City Council vote that will decide whether the Kings stay put. The non-binding term sheet between the city and the Kings estimates the final price tag for the arena at $391 million.

The City Council will vote on the project Tuesday night, and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson (6'1''-G-66, college: California) has long expressed confidence that there are more than enough members to approve the plan.

Under the agreement, the city will contribute $255.5 million to the project, mostly by leasing out parking garages around the facility. The Kings have agreed to pay $73.25 million upfront and sign a lease obligating the team and any future owners to remain in Sacramento for 30 years.

Arena operator AEG will contribute $58.75 million, and another $3 million will come from a public sponsorship campaign such as selling engraved bricks and plaques around the building.

There also will be a 5 percent ticket surcharge to help fund the arena and a $1 ticket surcharge for facility maintenance. Among the other notables:

The arena will be owned by the city and operated by AEG.

The city will receive a percentage of net profits earned by AEG.

The city will allow the Kings to refinance the teams existing loan.

The city will sell 100 acres it owns next to the Kings current suburban arena and some smaller lots around the city that will raise $30.7 million.

Despite attempts by Anaheim and Seattle to swoop in and lure the Kings, the fate of the franchise is now in the hands of the Sacramento City Council which has approved every arena measure to date under the current project. The arena would open for the 2015-16 season in the downtown Sacramento rail yards.

What a turnaround for town that once seemed assured of losing its only major professional sports team.

The Kings were on the verge of relocating to Anaheim last year before Johnson desperately convinced the NBA to give the city one last chance to help finance an arena. At one point, Johnson a former NBA All-Star with the Phoenix Suns even called the process a slow death and compared the citys efforts to keep the Kings a Hail Mary.

Johnson made a pitch to the NBA Board of Governors last April, promising league owners the city would find a way to help finance a new arena to replace the teams current outdated suburban facility. He also bought time by presenting more than $10 million in commitments for new advertising, ticket purchases and other financial support from regional businesses for this season.

The NBAs relocation committee, headed by Oklahoma City owner Clay Bennett, who moved the team now known as the Thunder from Seattle in 2008, recommended that the league give the city a shot to follow through and handed down a March 1 deadline to come up with a plan to help finance an arena. True to his word, Johnson delivered. And just in time, too.

Thursday was March 1.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Lakers interested in Hinrich - by Eurobasket News
According to Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld, the Los Angeles Lakers have inquired about Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas).

Its no secret that the Lakers are in serious need of help in the backcourt and on the perimeter. Derek Fisher, 37, seems unable to keep up with some of the quicker and younger names at his position, Steve Blake, 32, is a capable outside shooter and willing defender, but neither really can create easy looks for Kobe Bryant to help ease some of the strain off the 16-year veteran, who leads the league in scoring (28.5 ppg) and shots taken (23.7).

After missing the Hawks' first 18 games recovering from an offseason left shoulder surgery, Hinrich, 31, has struggled to play up to his career numbers, averaging just 4.8 points, 2.5 assists and 1.6 rebounds in 17 games played.

So why the interest from the Lakers?

One reason is that Hinrich has $8 million that comes off the books at the end of the season and Los Angeles has long been rumored in trying to trade for Orlando Magics Dwight Howard and now the Minnesota Timber Wolves Michael Beasley.

Courtesy of www.csnchicago.com

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

NBLCANADA

NBL Canada Standings

1. London L.		26-8
2. Quebec K.		22-13
3. Halifax R.		21-13
4. St.John M.R.		16-18
5. Oshawa P.		15-20
6. Summerside S.		12-23
7. Moncton M.		9-26

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

NCAA1

No. 1 Kentucky basketball steamrolls Georgia, 79-49 - by Eurobasket News
The top-ranked University of Kentucky basketball team had only two players to honor in Thursdays Senior Night ceremony before the Wildcats hosted Georgia in their final regular-season game at Rupp Arena. UKs roster, however, is heavy on underclassmen who are future NBA players and could leave at any time - so in theory this might have been the last show in front of the home crowd for many of the Cats.

Playing that way, they all took turns dazzling. Kentucky hit 15 3-pointers, including seven straight at one point, and buried the Bulldogs 79-49 in an overwhelming performance. The Wildcats won their 21st consecutive game, 52nd in a row at home and improved to 29-1 overall, 15-0 in the Southeastern Conference.

'We'll beat you by a bunch when we shoot it like that', UK coach John Calipari said.

His squad moved within one victory - Sunday at Florida - of becoming the first major-conference team to go unbeaten in league play since the 2003 Wildcats went 16-0 in the SEC. Fittingly, senior Darius Miller (6'8''-G-90) led Kentucky with 17 points, hitting 5 of 9 threes, but he was hardly alone.

Seven different players scored at least eight points and seven Cats hit at least one 3-pointer. Sophomore Doron Lamb (6'4''-G-91) had 13 points and hit 3 of 6 from deep. Freshman Michael Gilchrist (6'7''-F-93) had 12 points, seven rebounds and two blocks. Freshmen Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93) and Kyle Wiltjer (6'9''-F-92), and sophomore Terrence Jones had nine points apiece.

Even the 6-foot-10 Davis hit a 3-pointer to go with eight rebounds and two blocks. Jones added eight rebounds, three assists and two swats.

We all had it going, Miller said. We all had a lot of fun tonight. I think thats how it should be in our last home game.

Kentucky blew the game open with a hail of threes in the second half, sinking seven straight in the span of four minutes and 12 seconds - two each by Lamb, Wiltjer and Marquis Teague, one by Miller - to key a 20-3 run. The Wildcats led 72-31 with 9:42 to go. It was a devastating display of offense as UK scored 79 points without a single point by way of fastbreak.

Courtesy of www.courier-journal.com

BSC Semis: Charleston Southern falls to UNC-Asheville 91-64 - by Eurobasket News
The Charleston Southern men's basketball team saw one of the better seasons in program history come to an end in a 91-64 loss to top-seeded UNC Asheville in the Big South Conference Tournament Semifinals Thursday night at Kimmel Arena.

Freshman guard Saah Nimley (5'8''-G-93) tallied 20 points to lead CSU in scoring for the second consecutive game, but the Bucs shot just 41 percent on the night and committed 18 turnovers. Senior forward Kelvin Martin (6'5''-F-89) posted 15 points in his final game in a Charleston Southern uniform, moving into 6th place on the program's all-time scoring list (1,483 points).

Asheville led wire-to-wire and was paced by 27 points from J.P. Primm (6'1''-G). Jeremy Atkinson (6'4''-F), Chris Stephenson (6'3''-G), and Matt Dickey also reached double figures, as the Bulldogs shot 49 percent and converted 28-of-30 attempts at the free throw line. Asheville will play 7th seeded VMI for the Big South Conference Championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament on Saturday at noon.

Arlon Harper recorded CSU's first bucket of the night when he stepped into the passing lane, came up with a steal, and raced the other way for a right-hand dunk to tie the score at 2-2. The Bucs opened up cold from the field, but were still within 15-12 when Cedrick Bowen hit one of two at the line after being fouled on a put back attempt.

Asheville then ripped off nine straight markers, though, to assume a 24-12 advantage at the 9:37 mark on a three-point play by Atkinson. CSU inched its way back, however, buoyed by Martin's three-pointer just before the shot clock buzzer - only his second trey of the campaign. The Bucs were still within seven at 35-28 when Nimley knocked down a triple from the top of the circle, but the Bulldogs answered with a 9-3 run to enter halftime with a 44-31 cushion.

Asheville kept pouring it on after the break, seizing control for good with a 15-4 run over the opening 6:07 of the stanza. Nimley countered with a triple on CSU's next possession, but Asheville never let its lead slip below 21 the rest of the way and enjoyed an advantage as large as 32. The Bucs scored the last four points of the night to account for the final margin, as sophomore Thomas Odom swished a left-wing three at the buzzer.

Turnovers were particularly costly for CSU, as Asheville cashed the 18 miscues into 30 points on the other end to post a 20-point advantage in the category.

CSU finished the season with 19 wins, the program's most since 1994-1995 and the third highest total in school history.

Courtesy of www.abcnews4.com

VMI tops Winthrop 75-55 in Big South semifinals - by Eurobasket News
D.J. Covington (6'9''-F/C) scored 16 points and led Virginia Military Institute to a 75-55 win over Winthrop Thursday night in the Big South Conference semifinals.

The Keydets (17-15), who got a double-double from Stan Okoye (6'5''-F-91) (13 points, 10 rebounds), scored first and never trailed. VMI is the first seventh seed to reach the Big South championship game since 2005.

Covington didn't miss a shot, going 6 for 6 from the floor and 4 for 4 at the foul line. He recorded four blocks.

For the Keydets, who split two regular-season games with sixth-seeded Winthrop (12-20), it was their third straight win, fifth in the last six games.

VMI was up 39-29 at halftime and 50-40 with 11:44 remaining before storming to its largest lead, 71-47, with 2:50 left. Ron Burks (6'4''-F) added 11 for the Keydets.

Winthrop's Andre Jones (6'2''-G) and Reggie Middleton (6'1''-G) each scored 14 points, the only Eagles in double figures.

Courtesy of www.gatorsports.com

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Shane GIBSON
  Sacred H.
  (187-G-)
  Avg: 22

1. Gibson, Sacred H.	22.0
2. Horton, Cent.Con.	19.0
3. Vinales, Cent.Con.	17.9
4. Ptacek, Cent.Con.	17.3
5. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn	17.3
6. Olasewere, LIU B.	17.1
7. Francis, Bryant	17.0
8. Johnson, Quinnipiac	16.5
9. Jones, Robert M.	16.4
10. Azotam, Quinnipiac	15.9

Rebounds Per Game

Ike AZOTAM
  Quinnipiac
  (200-F-)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Azotam, Quinnipiac	9.6
2. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn	9.5
3. Horton, Cent.Con.	8.9
4. Cannon, St.Franc.	8.8
5. Olasewere, LIU B.	7.6
6. Francis, Bryant	7.4
7. Goode, Fair Dickin.	7.4
8. Drame, Quinnipiac	7.3
9. Eatherton, St.Fra.	7.0
10. Thompson, Mt.St.M.	6.9

Assists Per Game

Jason BRICKMAN
  LIU B.
  (177-G-91)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Brickman, LIU B.	7.3
2. Castellanos, Mt.St.	4.6
3. Dobbs, Bryant	4.6
4. Jones, Robert M.	4.5
5. Ortiz, Wagner	4.3
6. Steele, Monmouth	4.2
7. Hayes, Fair Dickin.	4.1
8. McMillan, Cent.Con.	4.0
9. Gaetano, Sacred H.	4.0
10. Jones, St.Franc.	3.9

Steals Per Game

Ken HORTON
  Cent.Con.
  (198-F-)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Horton, Cent.Con.	2.1
2. Hayes, Fair Dickin.	2.0
3. Ortiz, Wagner	1.9
4. Jones, Robert M.	1.9
5. Olasewere, LIU B.	1.5
6. Gibson, Sacred H.	1.5
7. Jones, St.Franc.	1.4
8. Ritter, St.Franc.	1.4
9. Parker, Mt.St.Ma.	1.3
10. Myers, Robert M.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Naofall FOLAHAN
  Wagner
  (210-C-90)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Folahan, Wagner	1.6
2. Horton, Cent.Con.	1.4
3. Goode, Fair Dickin.	1.4
4. Thompson, Mt.St.Ma.	1.3
5. Swidowski, Sacred	1.3
6. Altit, Bryant	1.2
7. Eatherton, St.Fra.	1.2
8. Olasewere, LIU B.	1.1
9. Azotam, Quinnipiac	1.1
10. Thompson, Robert	1.1

Top 25 - Men

NEC Standings

1. LIU Brooklyn		17-2 (23-8)
2. Wagner		16-3 (24-6)
3. Robert Morris		14-5 (22-9)
4. St.Francis, NY		12-7 (15-15)
5. Quinnipiac		11-8 (18-12)
6. Monmouth		10-9 (12-19)
7. Cent.Conn.St.		10-9 (13-16)
8. Sacred Heart		8-11 (14-18)
9. Mt.St.Mary's		6-12 (8-21)
10. St.Francis, PA		5-13 (6-23)
11. Fair Dickinson		2-16 (3-25)
12. Bryant		1-17 (2-28)

Florida State rallies for 63-60 win over Virginia - by Eurobasket News
Sophomore guard Ian Miller's (6'3''-G-91) three-point basket with one second remaining provided Florida State with its winning margin in a 63-60 victory over Virginia in an Atlantic Coast Conference mens basketball game at John Paul Jones Arena Thursday night (March 1).

Millers basket capped a 16-2 run by the Seminoles in the final 4:10 of the game after two free throws by senior forward Mike Scott gave UVa a 58-47 lead with 4:33 remaining to play. Miller had nine points in Florida States run and finished with a team-high 18 points for the Seminoles.

Junior guard Michael Snaer (6'5''-G-89) and senior forward/center Xavier Gibson each added 12 points for Florida State and Gibson had five rebounds.

Scott had a double-double with game-high totals of 28 points and 10 rebounds to lead Virginia. The 28 points are a career high for Scott in an ACC game and the double-double was the 32nd of his career (eighth this season).

Junior guard Jontel Evans (5'10''-PG-90) added 10 points and four assists for UVa.

The victory improves Florida States overall record to 20-9 and the Seminoles are 11-4 in the ACC. It was Florida States seventh consecutive win over Virginia and the Seminoles 10th win the last 11 games with the Cavaliers.

The loss drops Virginias overall record to 21-8 and the Cavaliers are 8-7 in the ACC. It was the final home game of the regular season for UVa.

In this weeks national rankings, Florida State is ranked 22nd in both The Associated Press poll and the ESPN/USA Today coaches poll. Virginia is ranked 24th in The Associated Press poll.

Florida State led by nine (29-20) at halftime, but the Cavaliers rallied early in the second half. After Gibson scored the first basket of the second half to extend Florida States lead to 11, UVa went on a 15-2 run to take a 35-33 lead with 15:19 to play. Sophomore guard Joe Harris scored six points for Virginia in that run.

UVa led by two at 49-47 with 6:48 to play when the Cavaliers scored nine consecutive points to take their 58-47 lead with 4:33 remaining in the game. Scott scored four points in that stretch for Virginia.

Florida State then rallied behind Miller in the closing minutes for the come-from-behind victory.

Florida State shot 51.1 percent (23-45) from the field, including 43.8 percent (7-16) from three-point range, and 76.9 percent (10-13) from the free-throw line in the game. The Seminoles out-rebounded the Cavaliers 27-21.

Virginia shot 45.5 percent (20-44) from the field, including 44.4 percent (4-9) from three-point range, and 80.0 percent (16-20) from the free-throw line.

Virginia plays its final game of the 2011-12 regular season on Sunday (March 4) at Maryland. That game is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. and will be televised by the ACC Network.

Courtesy of http://wtvr.com

Michigan deals Illinois another blow with 72-61 victory - by Eurobasket News
Illinois might have known a winning streak was too good to be true, especially this late in the season.

The Illini couldn't come back to beat No. 13 Michigan in their home finale Thursday, falling 72-61 at Assembly Hall.

Illinois (17-13, 6-11 Big Ten) failed to string together back-to-back victories after beating Iowa 63-54 on Sunday in Champaign. The Illini end the regular season Sunday at Wisconsin, with their NCAA tournament hopes all but gone.

With the last home game, youre hoping to turn the season, coach Bruce Weber said. I think if you win at Wisconsin and then win a game or two [in the Big Ten tournament], you have a chance.

After [the victory] Sunday, I thought we had great spirits. It didnt start well for us [against Michigan], and it didnt start well against Iowa, either. They were pretty down in the locker room.

The Wolverines (22-8, 12-5) had something to prove after losing to Purdue 75-61 on Saturday, and it showed from the opening tip. Michigan led by 13 in the first half before settling for a 35-27 lead at the break.

Illinois came out with some fire afte