EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/9/2012

Copyright © 1997-2012 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

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


Sporting De Cabinda in Luanda for Basketball Championship's Games - by Eurobasket News
Luanda The senior males team of Sporting de Cabinda are in Luanda for two delayed games of the first division basketball championship, also dubbed BAI-Basket.

The two games will be with Clube Desportivo da Universidade Agostinho Neto (CDUAN) for the 14th round, on Tuesday, in Cidadela pavilion, and on Wednesday for the 15th round they will face amigos de Viana, in the same venue.

If Sporting de Cabinda win the two games the team will move up to the fifth position of the standing.

Recreativo do Libolo, with 29 points, are leading the competition, followed by 1 de Agosto with the same points.

Petro de Luanda, defending champions come third with 27 points.

Check the standing:

1. Libolo 29 points

2. 1 de Agosto 29

3. Petro de Luanda 27

4. Interclube 26

5. ASA 23

6. Lusadas 22

7. Sporting de Cabinda 20

8. Vila Clotilde 19

9. Sporting de Luanda 18

10. Vila Estoril 16

11. CDUAN 16

12. Amigos de Viana 11
Courtesy of: Angola Press

Libolo Beat Interclube and Lead Basketball Championship - by Eurobasket News
Luanda Recreativo do Libolo beato n Friday evening Interclube by 92-81 in Luanda's Cidadela pavilion, in the third round of the national senior males basketball championship (BAI-Basket).

With this result, Recreativo do Libolo cemented their lead of the competition with 27 points.

In the first half, Recreativo do Libolo were already winning the match by 48-38.

Recreativo do Libolo's player Lus Costa was the best scorer of the game with 23 points.
Courtesy of: Angola Press

*****************************************************
  ASEAN LEAGUE   


Standings
O Standings
 1. Philip.Patriots 7-2 
 2. KL Dragons 7-2 
 3. Petron Blaze 7-3 
 4. Satria Muda 4-6 
 5. Thailand S. 4-6 
 6. Singapore S. 4-6 
 7. Bangkok C. 3-6 
 8. Saigon H. 2-7 


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


Corletto signs new 2 year deal with Breakers - by Hugh McAuliffe
The New Zealand Breakers have this morning confirmed the signing of guard Daryl Corletto (193-G-81) on a two year contract, after Corletto tweeted the news to followers last night.

Corletto arrived late in the pre-season on a one-year deal after he parted ways with the Melbourne Tigers and is enjoying a career season, not only posting great numbers but holding on to a role in the starting five despite the return of CJ Bruton from a knee injury earlier in the season.

Corletto is delighted with the news.

I just couldnt be happier to be honest, this has been a great season for me and I feel like I am playing at a great club, one that I want to end my playing days with. I guess there was some uncertainty when I first came over but even then I knew of the clubs reputation for looking after players and welcoming everyone into the SKYCITY Breakers family. That reputation has proven to be right on the money, this is a great organisation and one I am proud to represent.

Negotiations were easy, I wanted to be here and it seems as though the feeling is mutual, the club was keen to keep me. It is great to have this done at this stage of the season so there are no distractions as we head to the end of the regular season and concentrate all our efforts on Adelaide this weekend.

Corletto has indicated a desire to play until he is 34 or 35 and will reassess those aims at the end of the newly inked deal but clearly has a view to stay in New Zealand until he calls it a day.

Sometimes things happen for a reason, you dont always see that at the time but moving to the SKYCITY Breakers has been great for my career and I have to say for me in the sense that I am enjoying my basketball like I havent done in a long time. I am playing for a great coaching team and with a great group of players and support staff. Why wouldnt you enjoy this?

SBL: Hawks sign import Shane Ross - by Eurobasket News
The Perry Lakes Hawks Mens SBL team have announced the signing of their second import, 6 foot 8 post player Shane Ross (203-F/C-86, college: Toledo).

Ross, who hails from Lansing, Michigan, played his college basketball at University of Toledo and Glen Oaks Community College, where he was the 6th highest ranked junior college player in the nation.

He has also spent time playing in the minor leagues in America, playing with the Lake Michigan Admirals of the American Basketball Association (ABA), As well as the Dayton Air Strikers in the Premier Basketball League (PBL).

Ross is expected to form a formidable front court with Ben Purser and Josh Garlepp at the Perry Lakes Hawks this season.

I want to rebound the ball, get running on the break and finish strong at the ring, he said.

I love the rough stuff and all the contact that comes with being a post player.

Ross comes to the Hawks on the recommendation of Matt Rosinski, who was his roommate at a NBA D-League draft camp in 2010.

Matt got me the job here and being able to play with him again will be an added bonus.

The combination of Ross and Rosinski means that the Hawks will have one of the most skilful and athletic import duos in the league.

Im excited about the opportunity to play in Australia with the Perry Lakes Hawks. He said

Ive heard great things about the club and I cant wait to get started.

Courtesy of: SBL

SBL: Season Preview - Collie Crane Hire Southwest Slammers - by Eurobasket News
Life has been extremely difficult for both the men's and women's Slammers teams in recent seasons. But they've made several major changes for 2012 in a bold bid to improve. Find out the moves they've made with the next of our season previews.

Collie Crane Hire Southwest Slammers 2012 Season Preview

Men-

2011 Recap: The Southwest Slammers walked away from a disappointing season in 2011 with no wins on the board. The Slammers were challenging at times throughout the season with the help of their import, Nick Freer, who averaged more than 26 points per game and improved in their teamwork towards the end of the season, but could not quite finish on top.

Off-Season Grade: C-

Off-Season Summary: The Slammers have made plenty of changes during the break, but kept it in the family with a returning coach and a group of locals to give the Southwest a fresh look. Greg Worthington, father of Slammers forward Trent and NBL player Mark Worthington, took over the top job for 2012 after four years away from the position. Worthington has brought in many a young talent along with two experienced, top scoring players from the Bunbury Basketball Association in Wade Hitchcock and Tim Collins. But arguably their most exciting recruit is American import Senario Hillman (185-PG-88, college: Alabama), a guard from the University of Alabama who knows how to dunk and get the game started with his scoring antics. Another American, Carlos White (202-F-80, college: Rhema Bible), also joined the squad to give the team more height, while Trent Worthington (F-88) and Nat Van Dijk continue on with Southwest.

2012 Fixture: Southwest start their 2012 campaign at home against the Geraldton Buccaneers their games get tougher as the season goes on with games against East Perth, Stirling and Cockburn within the first five rounds. The Slammers will want to get off to a good start to challenge throughout the year.

Courtesy of SBL

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


Oberwart Gunners add Youngster Benjamin Blazevic - by Stefan Prager
Austrian Champion Oberwart Gunners announced the signing of youngster Benjamin Blazevic. The 16 year old big man is coming from the Woerthersee Piraten of the Austrian Landesliga. Blazevic is expected to be a part of the Gunners U18 and U20 teams. Futurewise Gunners are also planning for the Bundesliga roster with Blazevic. Gunners management said that they followed Blazevic for a longer period of time. In perspective Blazevic could soon be a part of the Bundesliga team.

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


BC Galil Gilboa wins in Belgrade - by Zoran Popovic
In the postponed game of 8th round BIBL league OKK Beograd lost game against BC Galil Gilboa 71:74 (16:22, 17:15, 16:16, 20:21). Guests from Israel better opened the game and finish first quarter with +6 points advantage. The rest of the match both teams showed good and equal quality. At the end of last period Belgrade players were close to made surprise, but the guests from Israel saved advantage and routinely win the game. The most efficient BC Galil Gilboa was Courtney Fells (198-SF-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) scored 21 points and for OKK Beograd Stanoje Knezevic with 17 scored points.

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


Standings - BNL
NBB Standings
 1. Pinheiros/Sky 18-5 
 2. S.Jose/Unimed 18-5 
 3. Flamengo 18-6 
 4. Uniceub/BRB 16-5 
 5. Unitri/Universo 15-8 
 6. Paulistano 15-9 
 7. Itabom/Bauru 15-10 
 8. Cia do Terno 11-12 
 9. Winner/Limeira 10-12 
 10. Vivo/Franca 9-13 
 11. Liga Sorocaba 9-13 
 12. Tijuca TC 8-15 
 13. Minas 8-16 
 14. Araraquara 2-21 
 15. Vila Velha 1-23 


Rafael Fusco will play for Suzano - by Paulo Freire
The experienced small forward Rafael Fusco (192-F-78) of 32-year-old hit the last week his going to the Suzano basketball team that will play the Paulista State 2012 in A1 Series, Regional Games, Interior open games and the next NBB 2012-13 season.

Fusco played in 2011 in three different teams Sorocaba, Americana Basketball and Jacarei Basketball. At his career Fusco has played for many teams most of them from Sao Paulo.

Vivo/Franca and Flamengo record wins - by Eurobasket News
Vivo/Franca posted the seventh win in the season as they toppled visiting Itabom/Bauru 77:70 in Round 23 postponed game. The teams were tied at 47 at halftime. But Vivo/Franca gradually cleared off and registered an important win at the end. Vuk Ivanovic (208-F/C-83, agency: Interperformances, college: BYU) posted 16 points to lead the effort. Helinho Garcia (186-G-75) added 14 points in the win. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) answered with 28 points for Itabom/Bauru.
Flamengo had no mercy against Minas 99:89 at home court. The victory propelled Flamengo at 18-6 record. The hosts built a 50:38 halftime lead and never looked back en route to the win. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) came up with 27 points, 6 assists and 4 boards to pace the hosts. Caio Silveira (211-C-87, agency: Interperformances) contributed 19 points in the winning case. Luciano Starling (185-G-92) replied with 22 points for Minas.


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


Subotic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
31-year old guard Srdan Subotic (193-G-80) put on an amazing game in the last round for KK Split and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
He had a double-double of 28 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Jolly (#2, 13-5) in overtime 103-94. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. KK Split maintains the 3rd position in Croatian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. KK Split will need more victories to improve their 12-6 record. It's Subotic's second year at KK Split and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Subotic has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in assists (6th best: 3.3apg) and averages solid 61.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Hrvoje Puljko (193-G-83) of league's second-best Jolly. He is a guard in his first season at Jolly. In the last game Puljko recorded impressive 43 points and 4 rebounds. Bad luck as Jolly lost that overtime game 94-103 to slightly lower-ranked KK Split (#3, 12-6). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Jolly still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 13-5 record is not bad at all. Puljko is a newcomer at Jolly and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another KK Split's star - swingman Josip Sobin (203-G/F-89). Sobin scored 22 points. He was another key player of KK Split, helping his team with a 103-94overtime win against #2 ranked Jolly. KK Split needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 12 victories and 6 lost games. Sobin has a great season in Croatia. After 18 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.1rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tadej Kostomaj (186-G-87) of Svjetlost - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) of Zadar - 13 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Ivan Grgat (210-C/F-74) of Krizevci - 13 points and 8 rebounds
7. Zoran Vrkic (200-G-87) of Zadar - 10 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Roko Rogic (185-G-92) of Alkar Sinj - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Luka Babic (200-F-91) of KK Split - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Luka Drezga (196-G-87) of Borik - 20 points and 5 rebounds

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

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


Czech Republic NBL round 4 (Second Stage) best performance: Marcus Arnold - by Eurobasket News
American Marcus Arnold (207-C/F-84, agency: Stanley International) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for BK Pardubice, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Second Stage).
The 27-year old player was the main contributor (25 points, seven rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat USK Praha (#6, 15-15) 81-66. BK Pardubice maintains the 4th position in Czech Republic NBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. BK Pardubice will need more victories to improve their 21-9 record. Arnold has many years of experience at BK Pardubice, through which he has constantly improved. Former University of Illinois star has very solid stats this year. Arnold is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 8.0rpg) and averages impressive 56.1% FGP. Worth to mention Arnold played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old American Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87, agency: Stanley International) of Usti n/Labem. McFadden had a very good evening with 28 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Of course Usti n/Labem cruised to a 71-62 relatively comfortable win over the higher-ranked Levice (#-4, 14-19). This victory allowed Usti n/Labem to move up to -1th position in A2. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-23 record. McFadden is well-known at Usti n/Labem and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.3ppg (#4). His other stats are also decent: 4.5rpg and 3.7apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center James Hughes (211-C-83, agency: I.D.S. Law) of NH Ostrava (#-5). Hughes scored 20 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of NH Ostrava, leading his team to a 97-79 easy win against #-2 ranked Chomutov in a game of the week. NH Ostrava needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in A2. Their record at this point is 19 victories and 14 lost games. Hughes has a very solid season. In 33 games in Czech Republic he scored 14.2ppg. He also has 6.6rpg, 1.4bpg and FGP: 58.3%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jakub Sirina (185-G-87) of B&W Opava - 22 points and 5 assists
5. Chester Simmons (198-G-82) of CEZ Nymburk - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Jakub Blazek (203-F-80) of B&W Opava - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80) of CEZ Nymburk - 22 points and 5 rebounds
8. Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-C-83) of BK Prostejov - 10 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Mihajlo Pesic (206-F/C-81) of Inter Bratislava - 17 points and 9 rebounds
10. Vojtech Hruban (202-F-89) of USK Praha - 22 points and 3 assists

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

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


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. White, Aalborg25.7 
 2. Harris, Horsens IC24.5 
 3. Henry, Naestved21.9 
 4. Rutherford, SISU21.1 
 5. Curry, Aabyhoj20.3 
 6. Bishop, Aalborg19.3 
 7. Alexander, Bakken19.0 
 8. Rasmussen, Vaerl.18.8 
 9. Fields, Falcon17.4 
 10. Kingsley, Svendbo.17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tony BISHOP
  Aalborg
  (201-F-89)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Bishop, Aalborg11.5 
 2. Curry, Aabyhoj11.0 
 3. Glynn, Naestved10.9 
 4. St.John, Horsens9.9 
 5. Phillips, Aabyhoj8.7 
 6. Ba, Falcon8.4 
 7. Osgood-R., Vaerlose8.4 
 8. Benjamin, Horsholm8.3 
 9. Vinson, Svendborg8.3 
 10. Colas, Horsholm8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Davor SATTLER
  Horsens IC
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 5
 1. Sattler, Horsens IC5.0 
 2. Henry, Naestved5.0 
 3. Delk, Vaerlose5.0 
 4. White, Aalborg4.8 
 5. Colman, Svendborg4.5 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon3.8 
 7. Darboe, Svendborg3.6 
 8. Fields, Falcon3.6 
 9. Curry, Aabyhoj3.5 
 10. Nielsen, SISU3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Henry, Naestved3.9 
 2. Wire, Vaerlose2.9 
 3. White, Aalborg2.8 
 4. Dennis, SISU2.6 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg2.4 
 6. Fields, Falcon2.1 
 7. Sattler, Horsens IC2.0 
 8. Nielsen, SISU1.9 
 9. Plannthin, Svend.1.9 
 10. Alexander, Bakken1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Harrison, SISU2.3 
 2. Colas, Horsholm1.8 
 3. Christoffers., Bak.1.7 
 4. Bishop, Aalborg1.6 
 5. Phillips, Aabyhoj1.6 
 6. Curry, Aabyhoj1.6 
 7. Vinson, Svendborg1.4 
 8. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.1 
 9. Sprinker, Vaerlose1.1 
 10. Eleraky, Aalborg0.9 


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


Standings
D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Iowa E. 22-14 
 2. Springfield A. 21-15 
 3. Dakota W. 20-16 
 4. Erie Bay H. 19-17 
 5. Canton C. 19-18 
 6. Maine RC 15-23 
 7. Ft.Wayne MA 11-27 
 8. Sioux Falls S. 9-28 
West Conference
 1. Los Angeles D. 28-11 
 2. Austin T. 22-14 
 3. Rio Grande VV 22-17 
 4. Bakersfield J. 20-17 
 5. Texas L. 19-18 
 6. Reno B. 18-19 
 7. Tulsa 66ers 18-22 
 8. Idaho S. 16-23 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 24.2
 1. Ahearn, Reno B.24.2 
 2. Emmett, Reno B.23.6 
 3. Almond, Maine RC23.1 
 4. Dentmon, Austin T.22.5 
 5. Harris, Canton C.21.4 
 6. Costner, Los A.20.9 
 7. Ubiles, Dakota W.20.6 
 8. Howard, Ft.Wayne.20.0 
 9. Mitchell, Sioux F.19.6 
 10. Green, Los A.19.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers12.9 
 2. Dawson, Austin T.10.3 
 3. Milligan, Canton C.9.3 
 4. Criswell-L., Austi.8.9 
 5. Thomas, Los A.8.9 
 6. Williams, Texas L.8.8 
 7. Foote, Springfield8.6 
 8. Horner, Springfi.8.3 
 9. Andrews, Los A.8.3 
 10. Dyer, Texas L.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 William CONROY
  Rio G.
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Conroy, Rio G.10.1 
 2. Russell, Ft.Wayne.9.9 
 3. Wise, Bakersfield6.3 
 4. Bozeman, Reno B.6.2 
 5. Curry, Springfield6.2 
 6. Stinson, Iowa E.6.2 
 7. Baker, Dakota W.6.1 
 8. Bailey, Idaho S.5.9 
 9. Fortson, Los A.5.9 
 10. Johnson, Austin5.5 
Steals Per Game
 Dominique COLEMAN
  Sioux F.
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Coleman, Sioux F.2.3 
 2. Hannah, Dakota W.2.1 
 3. Fortson, Los A.2.1 
 4. Stinson, Iowa E.2.0 
 5. Curry, Springfield1.9 
 6. Russell, Ft.Wayne.1.9 
 7. Owens, Tulsa 66ers1.8 
 8. Baker, Dakota W.1.8 
 9. Bobbitt, Idaho S.1.8 
 10. Dyson, Tulsa 66e.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Foster, Idaho S.2.9 
 2. Williams, Texas L.2.6 
 3. Saunders, Rio G.2.4 
 4. Thomas, Los A.2.3 
 5. Daniels, Erie B.2.1 
 6. Ojougboh, Tulsa1.8 
 7. Benson, Sioux F.1.7 
 8. Dawson, Austin T.1.7 
 9. Kent, Maine RC1.6 
 10. Hill, Maine RC1.6 


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


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


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


Kristjan Kangur selected the top Estonian playing abroad in last week''s games - by Eurobasket Center
We bring you last week''s top performances from Estonians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.


Kristjan Kangur
Kristjan Kangur
   #1. This week''s number one is an international forward Kristjan Kangur (201-82). He led Cimberio Varese to a victory over the closely-ranked Otto Caserta (10-12) 91-87 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Kangur was MVP of the game. He recorded 23 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 36 minutes on the court. Cimberio Varese (12-11) is placed eighth in the SerieA. Kangur has relatively good stats this year: 11.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 53.5%, 3FGP: 42.2% and FT: 78.3% in the 23 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Estonian senior national team.

Janar Talts
Janar Talts
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Janar Talts (206-83) is a teammate of previously mentioned Kristjan Kangur and both played together in the last Italian SerieA game. Talts contributed to a Cimberio Varese''s victory against the closely-ranked Otto Caserta (10-12) 91-87. He recorded 6 points. It''s Talts'' first season with the team. This season Talts averages: 4.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 2FGP: 71.2%(42-59), 3FGP: 18.2% and FT: 44.8%. He is in the roster of the Estonian senior national team.

Rait Keerles
Rait Keerles
   #3. The player who performed third best last week was former international forward Rait Keerles (201-80), who plays in the German ProA (second division). Keerles could not help Gloria Giants (12-11) to beat USC Heidelberg (11-7) despite his very good performance on Sunday. He was the top scorer with 21 points. Keerles also added 8 rebounds in 33 minutes. But Gloria Giants Duesseldorf lost 75-79 on the road to the higher-ranked (#3) USC Heidelberg. This year Keerles has relatively solid stats: 11.8ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 55.7%(88-158), 3FGP: 23.4% and FT: 78.8% in the 23 games. Former BC Kalev Tallinn starter played for the Estonian national team two years ago.

Rain Veideman
Rain Veideman
   #4. Guard Rain Veideman (192-91) contributed to an overtime BBC Bayreuth''s victory against the league outsiderBG Goettingen (2-23) 91-82 in the German BBL last Saturday. Veideman recorded only 4 points in 13 minutes. BBC Bayreuth (10-15) is placed 13th in the BBL. This year Veideman''s overall stats are: 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.2apg and 1.6spg in the five games. He is also Estonian national team player.

Kent Vene
Kent Vene
   #5. U18 an international forward Kent Vene (192-94) contributed to Zalgiris-Sabonio''s victory against the closely-ranked Delikatesas (22-18) 83-72 in the Lithuanian NKL (second division) last Saturday. Vene recorded only 2 points. Zalgiris-Sabonio mokykla Kaunas (23-17) is placed fifth in the NKL. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. This season Vene averages just 0.8ppg. He used to play for the Estonian U18 national team years ago.


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

   #1. Renato Lindmets (198-F-84, college: Westfield St.) was the main contributor in Stjarnan''s victory against the closely-ranked Njardvik (18-7) 74-61 in the Icelandic Express League last Thursday. He was the best player in that game. Lindmets recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Stjarnan (12-6) is placed second in the Express League. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Lindmets has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 17.1ppg, 8.9rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3bpg and 1.4spg. Lindmets is a naturalized American. He used to play also for BC Rakvere Tarvas in Estonian league.


Other top Estonian players, who play abroad:

Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90) plays for VEF Riga in Latvian LBL
Siergiej Babenko (208-F/C-61) plays for Ironi Ashkelon in Israeli Premier League
Remy Pold (198-G-92) plays for Jelson Homes DMU Leicester City Riders in British BBL
Artur Surov (216-C-83) plays for Torpan Pojat in Finnish Korisliiga
Heiko Rannula (186-G-83) plays for Garonne in French NM2
Madis Shumanov (207-C-88) plays for Bodfeld Baskets in German Oberliga

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


Finnish Korisliiga round 37 best performance: Kelly Beidler - by Eurobasket News
American forward Kelly Beidler (199-F-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Kauhajoki, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 37.
The 23-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Nilan Bisons (#2, 24-9) 85-78. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Kauhajoki maintains the 4th position in Finnish Korisliiga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Kauhajoki will need more victories to improve their 21-13 record. In the team's last game Beidler had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. He turned to be Kauhajoki's top player in his first season with the team. Former Mt.Saint Mary's University, MD star has very solid stats this year. Beidler is in league's top in points (3rd best: 19.4ppg), rebounds (4th best: 9.9rpg) and averages impressive 2.0bpg,2.2spg and 59.1% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 34-year old American Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management) of Namika Lahti. Moore had a very good evening with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. It was enough for Namika Lahti to edge the higher-ranked KTP (#6, 14-20) 79-76. Despite this victory they still are dead at the bottom. 25 lost games are too many comparing to just nine victories Namika Lahti managed to get this year. Moore is a newcomer at Namika Lahti, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Namika Lahti's star - American guard Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports). Brooks got into 30-points club by scoring 34 points in the last round. He went also for seven rebounds . He was another key player of Namika Lahti, helping his team with a 79-76 win against the higher-ranked KTP (#6, 14-20). Namika Lahti can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 9-25 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Brooks he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Brooks has individually a great season in Finland. After 34 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.2ppg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Clevin Hannah (180-PG-87) of Kauhajoki - 29 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Allen Durham (198-F-88) of Salon Vilpas - 14 points and 10 rebounds
6. Damon Williams (201-F-73) of Pyrinto - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Roope Ahonen (187-PG-90) of Salon Vilpas - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Jeb Ivey (190-G-80) of Nilan Bisons - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Sami Lehtoranta (205-C/F-79) of Kataja - 15 points and 9 rebounds
10. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84) of Kataja - 14 points and 9 rebounds

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

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


ProA Round 20: Entente Orleans 45 is defeated by Pau-Lacq-Orthez - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Pau between third ranked Entente Orleans 45 (13-7) and fifteenth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (6-14) on Saturday night. Entente Orleans 45 was defeated by Pau-Lacq-Orthez in a tough game on the road 78-83. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-78. Pau-Lacq-Orthez outrebounded Entente Orleans 45 43-32 including 29 on the defensive glass. 25 personal fouls committed by Entente Orleans 45 helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Nigerian power forward Chinemelu Elonu (206-87, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 20 rebounds and 4 blocks and American guard Allan Ray (188-84, college: Villanova) who added 23 points during the contest. American forward Brian Greene (204-81, college: Colorado St.) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Pau-Lacq-Orthez moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Le Havre and Poitiers. Entente Orleans 45 at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Nancy. Pau-Lacq-Orthez is looking forward to face league's leader Chalon/Saor at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Entente Orleans 45 will play against Paris-Levallois and will have a slim chance for a victory.
ProA top team - Chalon/Saor (17-3) added another victory to their record. This time they beat ninth ranked JDA Dijon (9-11) 84-77. The winners were led by American swingman Blake Schilb (200-83, college: Loyola, IL, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) who scored that evening 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and Alade Aminu supported him with 16 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Even 24 points (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) by American power forward Andre Harris (201-85, college: Fair Dickinson) did not help to save the game for JDA Dijon. Chalon/Saor have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-3 record, which they share with Gravelines. Newly promoted JDA Dijon dropped to the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Chalon/Saor will play against Pau-Lacq-Orthez (#15) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. JDA Dijon will play against Poitiers (#14) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game took place in Poitiers where higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (9-11) was upset on the court of fourteenth ranked Poitiers (6-14) 71-67 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Chorale de Roanne. The best player for the winners was Antonio Grant who scored 18 points and 4 assists. John Holland produced 18 points for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Poitiers moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Le Havre. Loser Chorale de Roanne keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Poitiers will meet higher ranked JDA Dijon (#9) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Chorale de Roanne will play against Strasbourg IG and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game took place in Villeurbanne where higher ranked ASVEL (10-10) was upset on its own court by eleventh ranked Cholet (9-11) 71-67. Fabien Causeur orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points and 6 assists. Cholet moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 3 other teams. ASVEL at the other side keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Cholet's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon (#16) at home and are hoping to win another game.
An interesting game took place in Le Havre where higher ranked Sluc Nancy (13-7) was upset on the court of thirteenth ranked STB Le Havre (6-14) 91-61 on Saturday. Worth to mention a great performance of Nicholas Pope who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. STB Le Havre maintains thirteenth position with 6-14 record, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Poitiers. Defending champion Sluc Nancy keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. STB Le Havre will face higher ranked Le Mans (#6) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Sluc Nancy will play against JSF Nanterre.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 20: Strasbourg won against Nanterre on the opponent's court 83-69. Bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon was outscored by Gravelines in a home game 60-85. Le Mans recorded a loss to Paris-Levallois on the road 85-78.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 27 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks by Alexis Ajinca of Strasbourg.


Poitiers - Roanne 71-67

An interesting game took place in Poitiers where higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (9-11) was upset on the court of fourteenth ranked Poitiers (6-14) 71-67 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Chorale de Roanne. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 21-17. But Chorale de Roanne won second period 17-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was American forward Antonio Grant (198-76, college: S.Carolina, agency: Interperformances) who scored 18 points and 4 assists. International swingman Evan Fournier (199-92) chipped in 16 points. American swingman John Holland (195-88, college: Boston U.) produced 18 points and his fellow American import guard Rashad Wright (189-82, college: Georgia, agency: Pro One Sports) added 12 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Poitiers moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Le Havre. Loser Chorale de Roanne keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Poitiers will meet higher ranked JDA Dijon (#9) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Chorale de Roanne will play against Strasbourg IG and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Poitiers: A.Grant 18+3reb+4ast, E.Fournier 16+4reb+2ast, P.Badiane 11+5reb+2ast, P.Guillard 9+5reb+1ast, A.Dobbins 6+3reb+3ast, J.J.J. Miller 6+3ast
Roanne: J.Holland 18+2reb+1ast, R.Wright 12+1reb+3ast, T.Larrouquis 10+1reb, D.Page 6+6reb, M.Diabate 6+3reb+5ast, U.Nsonwu-Amadi 4+6reb+1ast
gschID: 133646


Nanterre - Strasbourg 69-83

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both eleventh ranked Strasbourg IG and 12th ranked JSF Nanterre had identical 8-11 record. But JSF Nanterre was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Strasbourg 83-69 on Wednesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Strasbourg IG. JSF Nanterre was better in third quarter 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Strasbourg IG won last quarter 23-11. They made 27-of-35 free shots (77.1 percent) during the game. Strasbourg IG forced 19 JSF Nanterre turnovers and outrebounded them 35-20 including 22 on the defensive glass. JSF Nanterre was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international center Alexis Ajinca (215-88, agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 27 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks and American forward Chris Oliver (198-85, college: Radford) who added 12 points and 5 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) during the contest. Five Strasbourg IG players scored in double figures. American forward Mykal Riley (198-85, college: Alabama) responded with 17 points and the former international forward Stephen Brun (202-80) scored 11 points and 4 steals. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Strasbourg IG (9-11) moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Newly promoted JSF Nanterre keeps the twelfth position with 12 games lost. Strasbourg IG will face Chorale de Roanne (#8) on the road in the next round. JSF Nanterre will play against Sluc Nancy (#5).
Top scorers:
Strasbourg: A.Ajinca 27+8reb+1ast, R.Greer 12+4reb, C.Oliver 12+5reb+3ast, A.M'Baye 12+4reb+3ast, M.Zianveni 10+4reb+1ast, H.Invernizzi 6
Nanterre: M.Riley 17+2reb+2ast, S.Brun 11+3reb+1ast, D.Garrett 8+1reb+2ast, W.Daniels 7+2reb+1ast, M.Diarra 7+2reb+3ast, R.Covile 6+5reb
gschID: 133647


ASVEL - Cholet 67-71

An interesting game took place in Villeurbanne where higher ranked ASVEL (10-10) was upset on its own court by eleventh ranked Cholet (9-11) 71-67. It looked good early as ASVEL took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Cholet had a 27-13 second period charge getting the lead and ASVEL was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 67-71. It was a great shooting night for Cholet especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. International guard Fabien Causeur (193-87) orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points and 6 assists. American forward Robert Dozier (206-85, college: Memphis) contributed with 8 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Kim Tillie (210-88, college: Utah, agency: Priority Sports) replied with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and American swingman Dijon Thompson (201-83, college: UCLA) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for ASVEL. Cholet moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 3 other teams. ASVEL at the other side keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Cholet's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon (#16) at home and are hoping to win another game.
Top scorers:
Cholet: F.Causeur 17+3reb+6ast, P.Christopher 12+1reb, C.Ona-Embo 11+2ast, W.Gradit 9+1reb, R.Dozier 8+7reb+3ast, D.Nelson 6+2reb
ASVEL: K.Tillie 15+7reb+4ast, D.Thompson 15+7reb+2ast, P.Lacombe 10+1ast, D.Haritopoulos 9+5reb+3ast, E.Jackson 5+1reb+1ast, J.Livio 5+2reb
gschID: 133648


Chalon - Dijon 84-77

ProA top team - Chalon/Saor (17-3) added another victory to their record. This time they beat ninth ranked JDA Dijon (9-11) 84-77. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But JDA Dijon won fourth quarter 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Chalon/Saor made 23-of-27 charity shots (85.2 percent) during the game. The winners were led by American swingman Blake Schilb (200-83, college: Loyola, IL, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) who scored that evening 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and Nigerian power forward Alade Aminu (207-87, college: Georgia Tech) supported him with 16 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Even 24 points (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) by American power forward Andre Harris (201-85, college: Fair Dickinson) did not help to save the game for JDA Dijon. Guard David Melody (184-77) added 12 points and 6 assists for the guests. Chalon/Saor have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-3 record, which they share with Gravelines. Newly promoted JDA Dijon dropped to the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Chalon/Saor will play against Pau-Lacq-Orthez (#15) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. JDA Dijon will play against Poitiers (#14) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Chalon: B.Schilb 25+6reb+4ast, A.Aminu 16+5reb+2ast, A.Michel Jean-Baptiste 12+5reb, I.Evtimov 10, J.Lauvergne 9+8reb, M.Delaney 5+6reb+2ast
Dijon: A.Harris 24+4reb+3ast, S.Marshall 12+4reb+2ast, D.Melody 12+3reb+6ast, J.Leloup 11+2reb, T.Rupert 7+7reb, B.Dixon 5+2reb+10ast
gschID: 133649


Hyeres-Toulon - Gravelines 60-85

Very predictable result when second ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque (17-3) smashed on the road bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon (2-18) 85-60 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 25 points. Gravelines-Dunkerque outrebounded Hyeres-Toulon 41-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 14 passes made by Hyeres-Toulon's players. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Yannick Bokolo (190-85) who helped to win the game recording 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and American guard J.R. Reynolds (188-84, college: Virginia, agency: SportsTalent) who added 12 points and 6 assists during the contest. Four Gravelines-Dunkerque players scored in double figures. American power forward Thomas Terrell (201-79, college: Georgia St.) responded with 12 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import point guard Kareem Reid (178-75, college: Arkansas) scored 8 points and 10 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Gravelines-Dunkerque keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Chalon. Hyeres-Toulon lost twelfth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. Gravelines-Dunkerque will face ASVEL (#7) in Villeurbanne in the next round where they are favorite. Hyeres-Toulon will play on the road against Cholet (#11).
Top scorers:
Gravelines: Y.Bokolo 13+5reb+4ast, J.Johnson 12+3reb+2ast, J.Reynolds 12+2reb+6ast, D.Issa 10+5reb+1ast, J.Edwards 8+6reb+5ast, A.Albicy 8+2reb+2ast
Hyeres-Toulon: P.Morlende 13+1reb, T.Terrell 12+8reb+1ast, M.Faye 9+3reb+1ast, K.Reid 8+2reb+10ast, L.Labeyrie 8+7reb+2ast, S.Cisse 5+1reb
gschID: 133642


Le Havre - Nancy 91-61

An interesting game took place in Le Havre where higher ranked Sluc Nancy (13-7) was upset on the court of thirteenth ranked STB Le Havre (6-14) 91-61 on Saturday. The game without a history. STB Le Havre led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Sluc Nancy was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized American swingman Nicholas Pope (196-84, college: Oklah.Baptist) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 8 rebounds and American-Venezuelan guard John Cox (195-81, college: USF) who added 9 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists during the contest. Four STB Le Havre players scored in double figures. The former international power forward Adrien Moerman (203-88) responded with 14 points and 7 rebounds and Nigerian center Akinlolu Akingbala (208-83, college: Clemson) scored 9 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. STB Le Havre maintains thirteenth position with 6-14 record, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Poitiers. Defending champion Sluc Nancy keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. STB Le Havre will face higher ranked Le Mans (#6) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Sluc Nancy will play against JSF Nanterre.
Top scorers:
Le Havre: K.Souchu 19+3reb, N.Pope 16+8reb+3ast, B.Boddicker 14+5reb+2ast, A.Wiggins 14+3reb, N.Wise 10+3reb+4ast, J.Cox 9+5reb+11ast
Nancy: A.Moerman 14+7reb, A.Akingbala 9+7reb+2ast, P.Amagou 8+5reb+2ast, V.Samnick 8+2reb+1ast, J.Shuler 6+8reb+1ast, J.Linehan 5+3ast
gschID: 133643


Paris-Levallois - Le Mans 85-78

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 6th ranked Le Mans' (12-8) road loss to fifth ranked Paris-Levallois (14-6) 78-85 on Saturday. Le Mans trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 25-20 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 78-85 at the end of the game. Paris-Levallois looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Americans were the main players on the court. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Eric Chatfield (191-79, college: N.Mexico) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 8 assists and forward Jawad Williams (204-83, college: N.Carolina) who added 15 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. point guard Taylor Rochestie (185-85, college: Washington St.) responded with 13 points and 8 assists and guard Alex Acker (196-83, college: Pepperdine) scored 18 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Paris-Levallois moved-up to third place. Loser Le Mans keeps the sixth position with eight games lost. Paris-Levallois will face Entente Orleans 45 (#4) on the road in the next round. Le Mans will play against STB Le Havre.
Top scorers:
Paris-Levallois: E.Chatfield 20+4reb+8ast, J.Williams 15+8reb+3ast, T.Meacham 15+5reb+5ast, D.Noel 11+6reb+2ast, L.Hamilton 9+4reb+3ast, V.Masingue 8+3reb+2ast
Le Mans: A.Acker 18+2reb+4ast, T.Rochestie 13+3reb+8ast, J.Paulo Batista 11+4reb, A.Koffi 10+5reb, C.Kahudi 10+2reb+2ast, M.Sommerville 8+6reb+3ast
gschID: 133644


Pau-Lacq-Orthez - Orleans 83-78

The most important game in the last round took place in Pau between third ranked Entente Orleans 45 (13-7) and fifteenth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (6-14) on Saturday night. Entente Orleans 45 was defeated by Pau-Lacq-Orthez in a tough game on the road 78-83. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-78. Pau-Lacq-Orthez outrebounded Entente Orleans 45 43-32 including 29 on the defensive glass. 25 personal fouls committed by Entente Orleans 45 helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Nigerian power forward Chinemelu Elonu (206-87, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 20 rebounds and 4 blocks and American guard Allan Ray (188-84, college: Villanova) who added 23 points during the contest. American forward Brian Greene (204-81, college: Colorado St.) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Cedrick Banks (190-81, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: Higher Vision Sports) scored 19 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Four Entente Orleans 45 players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Pau-Lacq-Orthez moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Le Havre and Poitiers. Entente Orleans 45 at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Nancy. Pau-Lacq-Orthez is looking forward to face league's leader Chalon/Saor at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Entente Orleans 45 will play against Paris-Levallois and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Pau-Lacq-Orthez: A.Ray 23+2reb+2ast, T.Gipson 18+4reb+4ast, C.Elonu 17+20reb, M.Maravic 7+5reb+3ast, A.Mendy 7+6reb, S.Rimac 6+2reb+5ast
Orleans: B.Greene 21+6reb, C.Banks 19+2reb+2ast, M.Pellin 11+3reb+5ast, G.Joseph 10+6reb, A.Sy 6+4reb, Y.Sangare 4+4reb
gschID: 133645




Joakim Noah''s double-double gives him Player of the Week award among French players who play abroad. - by Eurobasket Center
We bring you last week''s top performances from French who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.


Joakim Noah
Joakim Noah
   #1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to an international power forward Joakim Noah (211-85, college: Florida). He was the major contributor in a Chicago Bulls'' victory against the New Orleans Hornets (9-30) 99-95 in the NBA last Tuesday. Noah recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 16 rebounds. He also added 5 assists and 2 blocks in 39 minutes on the court. The Chicago Bulls have a very good 33-8 record this season. It was Chicago Bulls'' eighth consecutive victory in a row. It''s Noah''s fifth year with the team. This season Noah averages: 9.9ppg, 10.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 51.4% and FT: 74.8%. He is a naturalized American. Noah is in the roster of the French senior national team. However he has never played in France.

Nicolas Batum
Nicolas Batum
   #2. Number two best French abroad this week is an international forward Nicolas Batum (201-88), who plays in the NBA. Batum could not help the Portland Trail Blazers (19-20) to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves (21-19) despite his very good performance on Saturday. He was the top scorer with 29 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). But the Portland Trail Blazers lost 110-122 on the road to the Timberwolves. Batum has relatively good stats this year: 14.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 41.3% and FT: 83.2% in the 37 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the French senior national team.

Rodrigue Beaubois
Rodrigue Beaubois
   #3. Third place goes to an international guard Rodrigue Beaubois (186-88, agency: Court Side). Beaubois was not able to help the Dallas Mavericks (23-17) in their game against the New Orleans Hornets (9-30) in the NBA despite his very good performance on Friday. He was the top scorer with 25 points. Beaubois also added made 3 passes and 4 steals in 31 minutes. But the Dallas Mavericks were defeated 97-92 in New Orleans by the Hornets. It''s Beaubois'' first season with the team. His overall stats this season are: 8.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 46.1%, 3FGP: 33.8% and FT: 86.1%. Beaubois is also a member of the French senior national team.

Nando De Colo
Nando De Colo
   #4. Guard Nando De Colo (202-87) led Valencia Basket to a victory over the closely-ranked Unicaja Malaga (13-10) 68-58 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He was MVP of the game. De Colo had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 11 rebounds (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line). Valencia Basket (12-11) is placed seventh in the ACB. This year De Colo has relatively solid stats: 13.1ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.9apg and 1.3spg in the 23 games. He is also in the roster of the French national team.

Tony Parker
Tony Parker
   #5. International point guard Tony Parker (183-82) was the main contributor in a San Antonio Spurs'' victory against the Charlotte Bobcats (5-32) 102-72 in the NBA last Friday. Parker was the best player in that game. He scored 15 points, made 4 passes and 3 steals in 29 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 26-12 record this season. Parker has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 19.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 7.9apg and 1.1spg. Parker is also French national team player.

Mickael Gelabale
Mickael Gelabale
   #6. Forward Mickael Gelabale (201-83, agency: Court Side) contributed to Khimky''s victory against the closely-ranked ASVEL (1-5) 83-79 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. He scored 8 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 4 assists. BC Khimky Moscow Region (5-1) is placed second in group J. Gelabale''s team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And that game will be critical. This year Gelabale''s overall stats are: 5.0ppg, 1.8rpg and 1.8apg in the four games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior French National Team roster.

Mickael Pietrus
Mickael Pietrus
   #7. International swingman Mickael Pietrus (198-82, agency: Court Side) contributed to a Boston Celtics'' victory against the New Jersey Nets (13-27) 107-94 in the NBA last Friday. Pietrus scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 23 minutes. The Boston Celtics have 20-18 record this season. It was Boston Celtics'' fifth consecutive victory in a row. Pietrus'' total stats this season are: 6.7ppg and 3.1rpg. He is also in the roster of the French national team.

Boris Diaw
Boris Diaw
   #8. Power forward Boris Diaw (203-82) faced previously mentioned Tony Parker in the NBA last game. Diaw was not able to secure a victory for the Charlotte Bobcats (5-32) in their game against the San Antonio Spurs (26-12) despite his very good performance on Friday. He was the second best scorer with 14 points. Diaw also added 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists. But the Charlotte Bobcats were crushed 102-72 in San Antonio by the Spurs. This year Diaw''s total stats are: 7.7ppg, 5.6rpg and 4.4apg in the 35 games. He is also French national team player.

Ali Traore
Ali Traore
   #9. International center Ali Traore (207-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) contributed to Lokomotiv''s victory against the fourth-ranked ALBA Berlin (1-5) 73-70 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. Traore scored 9 points, had 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 18 minutes. Lokomotiv Kuban (4-2) is placed first in group L. His team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. Traore belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #6 and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). He has very reliable stats this season: 14.9ppg and 7.1rpg. Traore plays currently for the French national team.

Vasil Evtimov
Vasil Evtimov
   #10. Power forward Vasil Evtimov (207-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) couldn''t help Levski Sofia (16-4) in their game against Rilski Sportist (4-16) in the Bulgarian NBL despite his good performance on Friday. He had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 15 rebounds. But Levski Sofia lost 77-91 at home to the lower-ranked (#6) Rilski Sportist. They ended the series of six consecutive victories. Evtimov is currently first on the league''s list of best rebounders. This year he has very good stats: 10.4ppg, 11.3rpg, 2.3apg and 1.1spg in the 18 games. Despite Evtimov played previously for the Bulgarian national team, he is also a former international player as ten years ago he still played for the French senior national team.

   #11. International power forward Ian Mahinmi (206-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Rodrigue Beaubois as their both played in the NBA last game. Mahinmi contributed to a Dallas Mavericks'' victory against the Utah Jazz (19-19) 102-96. He scored only 2 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 17 minutes. Mahinmi has averaged so far 6.1ppg and 4.6rpg. He is also French national team player.

   #12. Former international center Johan Petro (214-86) faced previously mentioned Mickael Pietrus in the NBA last game. Petro couldn''t help the New Jersey Nets (13-27) in their game against the Boston Celtics (20-18). He cannot count Friday''s game as one of the best ones. Petro scored only 2 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 17 minutes. His team were defeated 107-94. He has averaged so far 4.1ppg and 3.5rpg. Petro used to play for the French national team back in 2010.

   #13. Former U20 an international guard Thomas Heurtel (188-89) contributed to a Caja Laboral''s victory against the seventh-ranked Valencia Basket (12-11) 68-63 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. He recorded only 2 points. Heurtel has averaged so far 4.3ppg, 1.3rpg and 1.4apg in the 23 games. He used to play for the French U20 national team three years ago.

   #14. Former international forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) contributed to a Cimberio Varese''s victory against the closely-ranked Otto Caserta (10-12) 91-87 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Diawara recorded 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 18 minutes. This season he has very high stats. Diawara averages: 15.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg and 1.5spg. He used to play for the French national team back in 2008.

   #15. International forward Florent Pietrus (202-81) is a teammate of previously mentioned Nando De Colo and both played together in the last Spanish ACB game. Pietrus contributed to a Valencia Basket''s victory against the closely-ranked Unicaja Malaga (13-10) 68-58. He scored only 4 points. Pietrus has averaged so far 2.0ppg and 3.5rpg in the 21 games. He plays currently for the French national team.


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. Boris Meno (203-F-83, college: Davidson) contributed to a Basketbal Svitavy''s victory against the eighth-ranked B&W Opava (7-26) 100-92 in the Czech Republic NBL last Saturday. Meno was the top player that evening. He scored 30 points (!!!) and grabbed 8 rebounds. QANTO Basketbal Svitavy (14-19) is placed third in A2 group. Meno belongs to league''s best rebounders and is ranked #2. He has individually a very good year with high stats. Meno averages: 15.1ppg and 8.5rpg in the 31 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Congolese and French as he used to play in France.

   #2. Mohamed Kone (211-C-81, college: Valparaiso) couldn''t help Meridiano Alicante (13-10) in their game against Blusens Monbus (7-16) in the Spanish ACB. Kone cannot count Sunday''s game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points, had 5 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Lucentum Alicante was edged 64-63 on the road by the much lower-ranked (#15) Blusens Monbus. It was Meridiano Alicante''s fourth consecutive loss in a row. Kone has averaged so far 3.8ppg and 3.1rpg in the 22 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French as he used to play in France.

   #3. Sylvere Bryan (208-C-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Tampa) contributed to an Umana Venezia''s victory against the closely-ranked Scavolini Pesaro (12-9) 87-61 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Bryan recorded 5 points in 16 minutes. Umana Venezia (13-7) is placed fifth in the SerieA. It was Umana Venezia''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. Bryan has averaged so far 4.1ppg and 2.9rpg. He has both French and Italian nationalities as he used to play in France.

   #4. Alfredo Ott (193-G-83, college: Dillard) contributed to an Lan Mobel ISB''s victory against the league outsiderTenerife (4-14) 78-73 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Friday. Ott recorded 22 points, 4 assists and 8 steals. Iraurgi Saski Baloia Lan Mobel (9-9) is placed eighth in the LEB Silver. Ott belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #1 and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has very impressive stats this year: 18.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.4apg and 3.1spg in the 18 games. Ott is a naturalized American. Strangely he has never played in France.

   #5. Afik Nissim (180-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) couldn''t help Krka (6-17) in their game against Zvezda (10-13) in the Adriatic League. Nissim recorded only 4 points and added 3 passes in 21 minutes. The 13th-placed Krka Novo Mesto was defeated 82-78 in Beograd by the higher-ranked Zvezda (#10) in the group A of Adriatic League. There are only 3 games left until the end of the Adriatic League Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Nissim belongs to league''s best passers and is ranked #5. He has averaged so far 8.7ppg, 2.4rpg and 4.2apg. Nissim also holds two passports: Israeli and French as he used to play in France.

   #6. Herve Toure (202-F-82) couldn''t help Blancos de Rueda (5-17) in their game against Caja Laboral (17-6) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 5 points. His team was edged 67-65. Toure is currently fifth on the list of best blockers. He has averaged so far 9.9ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.4bpg in the 21 games. Toure has French and Ivorian nationalities.

   #7. Jean-Felix Moupegnou (201-F-82, college: Alabama) couldn''t help Nova Ves (16-16) in their game against Komarno (22-10) in the Slovakian Extraliga despite his good performance on Wednesday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 10 rebounds. Moupegnou also added 4 assists in 30 minutes. His team was defeated 79-73. He has averaged so far 8.0ppg and 5.8rpg. Moupegnou has dual citizenship: Congolese and French as he used to play in France.

   #8. Roy Samaha (205-F/C-84, agency: Pro Management Agency) couldn''t help Anibal (10-8) in their game against Sagesse (10-10) in the Lebanese Division A. He cannot count Sunday''s game as one of the best ones. Samaha scored only 2 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 21 minutes. His team was defeated 84-79. He has averaged so far 4.5ppg, 4.2rpg and 1.1apg. Samaha has French and Lebanese nationalities as he used to play in France.

   #9. Jonathan Sztarkman (188-PG-91) couldn''t help Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (7-14) in their game against Elitzur Yavne (16-5) in the Israeli National League (second division). He scored 7 points. His team was crushed 92-57. Sztarkman has averaged so far 7.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.2apg and 1.5spg in the 20 games. He has dual citizenship: French and Israeli.

   #10. Antoine Guilard (202-F-92) couldn''t help the University of Laval (5-11) in their game against the Stingers (14-2) in the Canadian university league CIS. Guilard cannot count Wednesday''s game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points in 11 minutes. His team was edged 66-65. Guilard has averaged so far 3.3ppg and 2.3rpg.

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


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Chatfield, Paris-.21.9 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans19.2 
 3. Hamilton, Paris-.17.2 
 4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.16.9 
 5. Williams, Paris-.16.6 
 6. Causeur, Cholet16.6 
 7. Cox, Le Havre15.8 
 8. Schilb, Chalon15.4 
 9. Ray, Pau-Lacq.15.2 
 10. Wise, Le Havre15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.6 
 2. Hamilton, Paris-.8.3 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy7.7 
 4. Aminu, Chalon7.5 
 5. Greer, Strasbourg7.5 
 6. Armstrong, AS.7.2 
 7. Allen, Strasbourg7.2 
 8. Falker, Cholet7.0 
 9. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.6.9 
 10. Vebobe, Cholet6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon7.6 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.8 
 3. Parker, AS.6.3 
 4. Wise, Le Havre5.8 
 5. Linehan, Nancy5.4 
 6. Pellin, Orleans5.3 
 7. Dixon, Dijon5.1 
 8. Barrett, Roanne4.9 
 9. Schilb, Chalon4.8 
 10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Albicy, Gravelines2.5 
 2. Batum, Nancy2.1 
 3. Linehan, Nancy2.1 
 4. Riley, Nanterre2.0 
 5. Wise, Le Havre1.9 
 6. Melody, Dijon1.9 
 7. Acker, Le Mans1.8 
 8. Pellin, Orleans1.8 
 9. Fournier, Poitiers1.7 
 10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Ajinca, Strasbourg2.6 
 2. Falker, Cholet1.6 
 3. Batum, Nancy1.1 
 4. Akingbala, Nancy1.1 
 5. Hamilton, Paris-.1.1 
 6. Gobert, Cholet1.1 
 7. Issa, Gravelines1.1 
 8. Nichols, Cholet1.0 
 9. Williams, Paris-.1.0 
 10. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.0.9 


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


Manuchar Markoishvili selected the top Georgian playing abroad in last week''s games - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Georgians who are currently playing abroad.


Manuchar Markoishvili
Manuchar Markoishvili
   #1. This week''s number one is an international guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86). He led his Italian team Bennet Cantu to a victory over the closely-ranked Zalgiris (0-6) 77-71 in the Euroleague last Wednesday. Markoishvili was MVP of the game. He scored 32 points (!!!) and had 3 steals (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) in 38 minutes on the court. Bennet Cantu (3-3) is placed third in group H. The Top 16 already ended in the Euroleague. This year Markoishvili averages: 9.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 43.0%, 3FGP: 38.5% in the 16 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Georgian senior national team.

Zaza Pachulia
Zaza Pachulia
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Zaza Pachulia (212-84), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Atlanta Hawks (23-16) to beat the Golden State Warriors (15-21) despite his very good performance on Wednesday. Pachulia had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 16 rebounds. He also added 3 assists and 2 blocks in 38 minutes. But the Atlanta Hawks were edged 85-82 on the road by the Golden State Warriors. They ended the series of three consecutive victories. This year Pachulia''s overall stats are: 7.2ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 49.3% and FT: 73.1% in the 39 games. He is in the roster of the Georgian senior national team.

Giorgi Shermadini
Giorgi Shermadini
   #3. The player who performed third best last week was an international center Giorgi Shermadini (216-89) is a teammate of previously mentioned Manuchar Markoishvili and both played together in the last Euroleague game. Shermadini was the major contributor in a Bennet Cantu''s victory against the closely-ranked Zalgiris (0-6) 77-71. He scored 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. 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 also a member of the Georgian senior national team.

Viktor Sanikidze
Viktor Sanikidze
   #4. Forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-86, agency: World Sport Agency) contributed to a CS Bologna''s victory against the 16th-ranked Banca Tercas (7-16) 86-71 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Sanikidze recorded 9 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in 29 minutes. Canadian Solar Bologna (14-9) is placed fourth in the SerieA. Sanikidze belongs to league''s best rebounders and is ranked #1. He has very reliable stats this year: 13.1ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.5apg and 1.3spg in the 21 games. Sanikidze is also Georgian national team player.

Nika Metreveli
Nika Metreveli
   #5. International power forward Nika Metreveli (212-91, agency: Interperformances) contributed to a Banco di Sardegna Sassari''s victory against the ninth-ranked Air Avellino (12-11) 87-73 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Metreveli recorded only 2 points in 13 minutes. Banco di Sardegna Sassari (14-8) is placed third in the SerieA. It was Banco di Sardegna Sassari''s seventh consecutive victory in a row. This year Metreveli''s total stats are: 4.2ppg and 1.8rpg in the 19 games. He has a dual citizenship: Georgian and Italian. Metreveli plays currently for the Georgian national team.

Georges Mdivani
Georges Mdivani
   #6. Center Georges Mdivani (205-85) was not able to help Rueil (9-15) in their game against Angers BC 49 (11-13) in the French NM1 (third division). He scored 9 points, had 9 rebounds and made 5 blocks. But Rueil Athletic Club was defeated 78-72 in Angers by the higher-ranked BC 49 (#12). It was Rueil''s third consecutive loss in a row. This season Mdivani has relatively solid stats: 11.9ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.5apg. He is a former international player as he played for the Georgian senior team seven years ago.


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

   #1. Quinton Hosley (201-F/G-84, college: Fresno St.) was the main contributor in a Banco di Sardegna Sassari''s victory against the ninth-ranked Air Avellino (12-11) 87-73 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Hosley was the best player in that game. He recorded 28 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 3 blocks. Banco di Sardegna Sassari (14-8) is placed third in the SerieA. It was Banco di Sardegna Sassari''s seventh consecutive victory in a row. It''s Hosley''s first season with the team. Hosley is ranked fourth on the list of the most steals in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hosley averages: 15.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.1apg and 2.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Hosley has never played in Georgia.

   #2. Melvin Sanders (196-F/G-81, agency: FCM, college: Oklahoma St.) was not able to help Hacettepe University (7-14) in their game against Karsiyaka (12-8) in the Turkish TBL despite his very good performance on Saturday. He was the second best scorer with 19 points. Sanders also added 8 rebounds. But Hacettepe University was crushed 100-76 on the road by the higher-ranked Karsiyaka (#6). It was Hacettepe University''s fifth consecutive loss in a row. Sanders is currently fourth on the league''s list of best rebounders. This season he has very good stats: 12.0ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.7apg and 1.3spg. Sanders is a naturalized American. Strangely he has never played in Georgia.


Other top Georgian players, who play abroad:

Tyrone Ellis (193-G-77) plays for Meridiano Alicante in Spanish ACB
Vladimir Boisa (209-C/F-81) plays for Panionios in Greek A1
Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) plays for Spirou Charleroi in Belgian D1
Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83) plays for Mahram in Iranian Superleague
Besik Lezhava (191-G-86) plays for Apollon in Cypriot Division A
Niko Chkhatarashvili (203-G/F-86) plays for ENAD in Cypriot Division A
Beka Burjanadze (201-F-94) plays for Cajasol Castilleja in Spanish EBA

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

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


Cuxhaven BasCats parting company with coach Matkevicius - by Moritz Korff
Vilmantas Matkevicius is out as the head coach of Pro A outfit Cuxhaven BasCats. Just before the start of this current season the Lithuanian had to undergo hip surgery following a bike accicent and therefore missed most of the season. In the meantime, his assistant Krists Plendiskis took charge of the team.
Matkevicius served as the Cuxhaven head coach since 2000. He led the BasCats to promotion to the 2. Bundesliga and to the Pro A runner-up spot in 2008 and 2010. As a player and as a coach Matkevicius served more than 15 years for the club.

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


Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki
   #1. The best performed German player this week who plays abroad is an international forward Dirk Nowitzki (213-78). He led his USA team Dallas Mavericks to a victory over the Utah Jazz (19-19) 102-96 in the NBA last Saturday. Nowitzki was MVP of the game. He scored 40 points (!!!) and grabbed 6 rebounds in 29 minutes on the court. The Dallas Mavericks have 23-17 record this season. It''s Nowitzki''s 14th year with the team. Nowitzki has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 20.2ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 34.2% and FT: 86.9% in the 36 games he played so far. Nowitzki is currently a member of the German senior national team.

Chris Kaman
Chris Kaman
   #2. The second best is an international center Chris Kaman (213-82, college: Cent.Michigan). He was the main contributor in a New Orleans Hornets'' victory against the Dallas Mavericks (23-17) 97-92 in the NBA last Friday. Kaman was the best player in that game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 13 rebounds. Kaman also added 3 assists. The New Orleans Hornets have not so impressive 9-30 record this season. Kaman has relatively good stats this season: 12.3ppg, 8.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 41.5% and FT: 77.8%. He is a naturalized American. Kaman is in the roster of the German senior national team. Interesting that he has never played in Germany.

Tilo Klette
Tilo Klette
   #3. Number three best German player abroad this week is former U22 an international power forward Tilo Klette (206-77). He contributed to a Levanga Hokkaido''s victory against the closely-ranked Toyota Alvark (24-12) 73-71 in the Japanese JBL last Friday. Klette was the top player that evening. He scored 21 points. Levanga Hokkaido (17-19) is placed fifth in the JBL. It was Levanga Hokkaido''s third consecutive victory in a row. It''s Klette''s first season with the team. This season Klette has relatively solid stats: 12.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.2%, 3FGP: 35.0% and FT: 71.1%. He played for the German U22 national team thirteen years ago.

Konrad Wysocki
Konrad Wysocki
   #4. Forward Konrad Wysocki (201-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton), who plays in the Polish PLK could not help PGE Turow (0-2) to beat Energa Czarni (2-0). Wysocki scored 5 points in 23 minutes. The fifth-placed PGE Turow Zgorzelec was edged 67-65 on the road by the second-ranked Energa Czarni in the Group A. This year Wysocki''s overall stats are: 9.3ppg and 3.8rpg in the 26 games. He has a dual citizenship: German and Polish as he used to play in Germany. Wysocki plays currently for the German national team.

Mike Dejworek
Mike Dejworek
   #5. Former U18 an international center Mike Dejworek (210-87, college: Citadel) contributed to an overtime Bakken''s victory against the fifth-ranked SISU (12-15) 82-80 in the Danish Ligaen last Thursday. He scored 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds (went 5 for 5 at the free throw line). Bakken Bears (25-2) is placed first in the Ligaen. Dejworek''s team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Dejworek''s total stats this season are: 6.0ppg and 5.0rpg. He used to play for the German U18 national team seven years ago.

Nikita Khartchenkov
Nikita Khartchenkov
   #6. Forward Nikita Khartchenkov (200-87) was not able to help CSU Sibiu (13-9) in their game against Craiova (8-14) in the Romanian Division A. He scored 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. But CSU Atlassib Sibiu was crushed 97-70 on the opponent court by the lower-ranked Craiova (#11). This season Khartchenkov has very high stats. He averages: 17.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3apg and 1.4spg. Khartchenkov is a former U20 international player as he played for the German U20 team five years ago.


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

   #1. Keith Waleskowski (204-C/F-80, college: Dayton) was the major contributor in an overtime Tezenis Verona''s victory against the fifth-ranked Sigma Barcellona (12-9) 98-96 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Waleskowski recorded 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 35 minutes. Tezenis Verona (9-12) is placed tenth in the Lega2. It was Tezenis Verona''s first victory after three consecutive loses. 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. However Waleskowski has never played in Germany.

   #2. Mario Stojic (198-G/F-80, agency: Interperformances), who plays in the Spanish ACB could not help Meridiano Alicante (13-10) to beat Blusens Monbus (7-16). He scored 6 points. Lucentum Alicante was edged 64-63 on the road by the much lower-ranked Blusens Monbus (#15). It was Meridiano Alicante''s fourth consecutive loss in a row. Stojic''s overall stats this season are: 4.7ppg and 2.1rpg. He has a dual citizenship: Croatian and German as he used to play in Germany.

   #3. Joachim Thoss (203-C-81), who plays in the Filipino PBA could not help Alaska Aces (3-2) to beat Talk N Text (3-1) despite his very good performance on Sunday. Thoss had a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 14 rebounds in 40 minutes. But Alaska Aces lost 98-110 in a derby game to the leading Talk N Text. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Thoss is one of the most experienced players in a team as it''s his eighth year in Alaska Aces'' roster. This year his overall stats are: 10.0ppg, 9.0rpg and 1.4apg in the five games. Thoss is another player who holds two passports: German and Filipino. Despite his German nationality, Thoss previously played for the Filipino national team and is probably not eligible to play for the German team.

   #4. Sergio Kerusch (195-F-89, college: W.Kentucky) contributed to Aris'' victory against the closely-ranked Kavala (11-10) 78-57 in the Greek A1 last Saturday. Kerusch scored only 4 points and had 3 steals in 15 minutes. Aris Thessaloniki (8-12) is placed eighth in the A1. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This year Kerusch''s total stats are: 7.5ppg and 4.3rpg in the 20 games. He is a naturalized American. However Kerusch has never played in Germany.

   #5. Marco Sanders (202-F-79, college: Point Park) contributed to Centrum''s victory against the league outsiderLanghus IL (1-19) 76-72 in a derby game in the Norwegian BLNO last Sunday. He was the top player that evening. Sanders recorded 21 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists in 24 minutes. Centrum Tigers Oslo (12-8) is placed fifth in the BLNO. It was Centrum''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Sanders has reliable stats this year: 12.0ppg, 5.3rpg and 1.5apg in the six games. He is a naturalized American. Sanders used to play also for EnBW Ludwigsburg in German league.

   #6. Kiril Wachsmann (203-C/F-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Iona) was not able to secure a victory for Melilla Baloncesto (15-10) in their game against Leche Rio Breogan (13-13) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). He scored 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. His team was defeated 71-67. Wachsmann''s total stats this season are: 5.3ppg and 6.4rpg.

   #7. Jorg Rottgardt (191-G-81) contributed to Falcon''s victory against the closely-ranked Vaerlose (11-16) 92-85 in the Danish Ligaen last Thursday. He scored 20 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 26 minutes. This year Rottgardt''s total stats are: 7.0ppg and 2.1rpg in the 24 games.

   #8. Robert Sarovic (205-F-78, agency: 011 Sports) contributed to Timisoara''s victory against the closely-ranked Torus Skopje (2-8) 73-63 in the Balkan League last Tuesday. He scored only 2 points. Sarovic has reliable stats this season: 13.2ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.4apg. He has both Serbian and German nationalities as he used to play in Germany.

   #9. Urule Igbavboa (205-C-87, college: Valparaiso) was not able to secure a victory for LF Basket (18-15) in their game against Uppsala Basket (19-15) in the Swedish Basketligan. Igbavboa cannot count Tuesday''s game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 20 minutes. His team was crushed 98-69. Igbavboa has reliable stats this year: 10.5ppg and 5.4rpg in the 33 games. He is a naturalized American. Igbavboa used to play also for MEG Goettingen in German league.

   #10. Cody Toppert (193-G-83, college: Cornell) contributed to a Basquet Mallorca''s victory against the closely-ranked CB Tarragona 2017 (10-16) 73-69 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. He scored only 2 points. Toppert''s total stats this season are: 2.0ppg and 1.5rpg. He is a naturalized American. Toppert used to play also for MEG Goettingen in German league.

Johannes Herber (Fraport Skyliners) Jacob Burtschi Would Be The Hunter And I Would Build The Hut In The Wilderness - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Johannes Herber (197-G-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: W.Virginia) is a 29 year old 197cm shooting guard from Darmstadt, Germany that is playing his first season for the Fraport Skyliners. He started his basketball career in 1999 for TV Langen where he played until 2002. He then played for West Virginia from 2002-2006 playing a total of 128 NCAA games reaching the NCAA elite 8 in 2005 and NCAA Sweet 16 in 2006. He then played for Alba Berlin from 2006-2009 playing a total of 48 Beko BBL games and 10 ULEB Cup games and two Euroleague games. He battled ACL injuries in his time in the German capital. Last season, he played for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games averaging 6.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against Alba Berlin.



What do you remember most from the amazing 76-68 win against the Brose Baskets Bamberg?


Just the good feeling after the game. It is also nice seeing how the team has developed since the first loss in Bamberg and how many steps it has taken.

Bamberg came back in the second quarter to lead 37-36. How big was the belief of winning still at halftime?


The belief was there. We had shown early that we felt we could win with our good start. We got a bit tired in the second quarter and it was obvious that there would be some runs in this game. We wanted to play the third quarter like we did in the first quarter and did. If someone had told us before the game that we would be down by one point at halftime, we would very gladly have accepted it.


Quantez Robertson had the most spectacular play of the game getting in a passing lane stealing the ball falling out of bounds, but somehow spinning and passing the ball to Gibson. Tez then ran down on the fast break got the ball back and passed it to Tim Ohlbrecht who made a big dunk. Have you seen a more athletic player than Tez?


I dont think so. I have seen many athletic guys already in the NCAA, but he is amazing. He is so agile. I dont know if there is a quicker player. He has a quick second and third step.

The Fraport Skyliners have as many wins as the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig who are in 8th place. How realistic are the playoffs?


We have a chance. Last year one needed 18-19 wins to make it. We have 12 wins now and need 6 wins in the last nine games. It will be hard since we still have games in Berlin and in Artland, but anything is possible.

Frankfurt belongs to the top defensive teams in the Beko BBL. How much fun is it playing for this team?



It is a lot of fun since I am more of a defensive kind of player.


Jimmy Mckinney is a scorer and strong defender, but how important are his leadership qualities?


His leadership has been so important and has showed so often that he is a leader. We dont have so many good 1-1 players on the team, so often we look for him to do something and take command. He has made so many important shots.


The defense is the Skyliners strong point, but they arent always capable of putting big numbers on the board. What still needs to be improved on offense?


Often we are still too static on offense. The defense makes us take other options and not the ones we want and we are too slow to react. We tend to score better out of good defense where we get easy points.

It took a while for head coach Muli Katzurin and the team to get on the same page. What is the biggest strength of Katzurin?


He has much experience. He is good at not loosing control in difficult situations. He knows how to react in hard times. When we had injuries, he made the game slower and focused on defense.


What do you respect most about the captain abilities of Marius Nolte?


I cant say enough about him. He is so important to the team. He may not play so much, but he gives the team so much energy, communicates well and is the glue of the team. He always gets a good atmosphere and knows when to get loud. He also has good relationship with the fans.

You come form the area. How comfortable are you in Frankfurt?


I feel very comfortable. I am from near Darmstadt. I was away for 9 years in the States, Berlin and Tuebingen and its nice to be back. I feel good with the team and my family being around.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed?


I think that I understand the game well. I do the little things well and defend well as well. I am not a big scorer, but I do other things to help the team like setting blocks or cutting.

I think that you should get more shots on offense.


Please tell that to Muli. Our offense is free and usually whoever is hot is who will get the shots. I havent been shooting so well, so there are less plays revolving around me. I could be more aggressive and create more shots. I definitely play better with more confidence.


How was your childhood like?


I had a very nice childhood growing up at the Berg Strasse near Dramstadt. I loved basketball from a very early age.


Who were your basketball idols as a kid?


They always changed. My love to basketball started in 1993 when Germany won the European championships. I started to watch a lot of NBA as it was being shown on TV. I liked Penny Hardaway and Shaq. As I got older, I loved Michael Jordan and John Stockton. My favorite German player was Michael Koch who was a good shooter.


Was is it a tough decision going to West Virginia?


It didnt take too long for me to decide. It has always been my dream to play in the NCAA. I wanted to see the intensity and how basketball is lived there, play in the big arenas and get an education.

What is your memory of Mike Gansey at West Virgina?


I have so many nice memories with him. I remember beating Wake Forest and Chris Paul and Justin Gray in double overtime as Gansey made 19 points. Another memory with Gansey was beating Villanova in Madison Square Garden as he hit the winning free throws.


When you were a rookie with Alba Berlin in 2006, you had young coach Henrik Rodl. What was the most important thing that he gave you?


I didnt play much at all at the start having problems getting integrated, but he let me play more later as I developed and that is something I will never forget.


Who was the best player you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA today?


Carmelo Anthony. We lost too him twice. The other guy was Ben Gordon when he was with Uconn. He was so athletic that we didnt know how to defend him.

What scene do you remember most form the 2006 World Championships against USA in Japan?



The Demond Greene block on Dwayne Wade and me posting up against Lebron James.

If you were stuck in the wilderness with Jacob Burtschi, what would the survival duties look like?


Jake would be the hunter and I would build the hut in the wilderness.


What were the most free throws that you made in a row?


50.



What was your most crazy shot in your career?


A half court game winner against IUPUI


What are your 2012 NCAA Final 4 picks?


Michigan, West Virginia, Kentucky, Duke

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


Moneyball.

Thanks Joe for the chat.






Benjamin Beyer Gets Contract Extension With The Nordlingen Giants - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
There is nothing more positive for an injured player is when the team he is playing for gives him security with a contract extension. Benjamin Beyer (202-C-88) is a 24 year old 202cm center that got injured in pre season sustaining a ligament tear hasnt been able to play this season and isnt expected to return. The club rewarded him with a two year deal. 'We are convinced of his qualities on the court. We will help us on defense and make the team deeper. He already showed in the pre season games that he is a good role player and can importnat minutes form the bench. He has a great work ethic and is very liked in the team. We are happy that he will play with us for another two years', stated Giants head coach Mario Matic . Before coming to the Giants, Beyer played for teams BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Regionalliga), Dresden Titans (Regionalliga), NOMA Iserlohn Kangaroos (Regionalliga) and the Crailsheim Merlins (ProA).

Source: Giants Nordlingen

Regionalliga stars: Brett McKnight - by Moritz Korff
The message couldn't be misconceived. In late August 2011 the executives of FC Schalke 04 basketball unveiled their plans for the 2011-12 season and added a striking slogan to it: 'Die Mission: Aufstieg 2012'. The mission of earning promotion to the Pro B will remain incomplete for this time. The Royal Blues are currently ranked sixth in the 1. Regionalliga West, far behind league leader Bochum Astro Stars. So far, but yet so close. S04 handed the number one team its third loss of the season this past Saturday, holding off the Astro Stars 106-92. Brett McKnight (198-F, college: Akron) scored a game high 44 points in that contest and comes up with an explanation, why Schalke will fall short as far as reaching their season goal is concerned, but still can humiliate the best team in its division: 'My team has shown that we can play with anyone in this league. In the beginning of the season we had a plan to win the championship and we wanted too and everyone was excited to do so. As a team we deviated from that, because we went through some problems finding a solid point guard for our team. We didn't have that much chemistry as a team, because we were in the process in finding out, how everyone plays and with switching point guards so many times we had to adjust as a team a lot. As a team we had to make adjustments and tried to make things work as the season went on.'

Though the Schalke team had its share of struggles in the course of the season, McKnight was able to make a huge impact in the RLW. The 23-year-old Lancaster, Ohio, native is averaging a league high 26.2 points per contest to go along with 7.0 boards and 2.1 assists a game. But the former Akron standout stays humble, even after his stellar performance against Bochum: 'Me scoring 44 points means nothing without my team trusting me with the ball and putting me in the best situations on the floor.' Compared to his senior season at the University of Akron, his numbers have shot up dramatically: 'In college I was in a system and many things within that system only allowed me to do so much. Akron has a good strict learning system that you will come out knowing the game and become a better individual basketball player. With Schalke it's a different team, different system that gives me a little more freedom to exploit my talent a little more and it allows me to score effectively, therefore produce more and make a bigger impact on the floor', he explains. Obviously his transition to European basketball went smoothly. And somehow it all has been in his genes. His older brothers Chad and Chris are also playing pro hoops in Europe. While Chad McKnight (201-F-84, college: Morehead St.) is currently in his seventh overseas season and playing for 2. Regionalliga side Makkabi Frankfurt this year, Christopher McKnight (201-F-87, college: Akron) has taken his game to Sweden and is spending his second season with Boras Basket. His third brother Phil McKnight (198-G/F-84, college: Salem Intern.) attended Salem International University and had a spell in the ABA following his NCAA career. Thus, Brett knew whom to ask, when he decided to step on European courts. His brothers Chad and Chris were right there with some family advice: 'They have helped me with many things. Telling me what to look for, what it's going to be like, how things are different, what to expect, and just things that would help make my life easier out here in a different part of the world I am not used to. When coming to a different country it's a culture shock and you have to know how to deal with things like that when your here for 8 months', Brett says.

The help and advice of his brothers did some good. As well as his passion to play the game, which has always been part of the McKnight family: 'The love for basketball comes from my parents. My mother and father, who recently just passed, have been basketball lovers for years. Ever since we were little, they were there since we picked up a basketball. My father played basketball in high school and could have went into college to play basketball, but decided to choose football instead. They supported us all the years and my mother will continue to do so. My brothers and I have loved the game of basketball since biddy basketball with my dad coaching to now playing pro ball in Europe. We all have a lot of years under out belts and we have grown in the game and can only get better', he says.

While at Akron Brett and his brother Chris even were teammate for three years. And 'McKnightmare' regularly spread fear and terror among the opponents. 'My brother and I in college was a good duo, because we knew how each other played. It was a fun time, because when me and him were on the floor, it was a hard tandem to stop, if you were the opposing team, because of how much we brought into the game. We brought fight, focus, determination, and motivation and did what it takes to win those games we played together. And we both still have that today. We won the MAC tournament in 2009 together and that was a memory for life. If we got onto the same team with the talent we have now, I think it would come out a better result then in college. We both have worked hard and have improved in the game so much. I feel we would be very hard to compete with', McKnight states.

After making the move to Germany, some adjustments had to be made, but obviously they have not spoiled McKnight's game at all: 'I had to learn how to on-side dribble, because I would do the step before putting the ball on the ground just like in the States and that was a travel every time. I was getting tired of turning the ball over, so I had to involve it into my game. I am still learning how to improve my euro step and other foot work to make my steps better in going to the basket. I think when I improve on those little things, ball handling and staying in shape it will make me a better player in Europe', he says.

And might take him to a higher level in Europe. And out of the small Regionalliga gyms. If McKnight would be a soccer player at Schalke, he would play in front of 60,000 passionate fans every second weekend. But while the Royal Blues are a renowned powerhouse in soccer-crazy Germany, the club's basketball team goes rather unnoticed. Only a couple of hundred spectators will show up for the games in the 1. Regionalliga West: 'It's a shock and hard to get used to, because I am used to playing in front of at least three thousand and sometimes more fans and spectators, but here it's like you get maybe 100 people, sometime more, just depends on who you're playing and what type of game it's going to be like a cup game. Gyms are different. There are many lines on every floor and sometimes I get confused on where out of bounds is, but it was just little adjustments I had to get used to and things got better for me', he says.

It won't be 3000 fans cheering on in Schalke's next game on Friday night at current runner-up Recklinghausen. But still it's going to be a noisy crowd, as the Royal Blues will try to knock off the second top team within a week. While McKnight was unable to dress for the first encounter against Recklinghausen, he will now have the chance to cross swords with 2010-11 Eurobasket.com All-RLW Player of the Year, Robert Franklin: 'Well, I missed a four game stretch due to my father passing. So I have been ready for that four games that I missed and when I could have made a difference in those games. As a player I go game to game, I don't look at rankings of teams or stats. I just go into every week and find out what the team does best, who are there best players, and what my job is to be successful.'

However, there is still something to be determined. Considering the plentitude of basketball talent in the McKnight family, who's the most talented one? This is Brett's take on answering that question: 'We have all played for years and all have different talents in basketball. If you would ask each of us, we all would answer ' I am the best out of the family'. So right now I am the most talented out of my brothers, because I am getting asked this question right now.'

Jared Newson (I Dont Practice Dunks, They Just Come Naturally To Me During Games) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Tenn-Martin) is a 27 year old 195cm shooting guard/small forward from St Louis, Missouri. He played at Tennessee-Martin (NCAA) from 2003-2006. In his senior year, he played 28 games: 18.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 70.9%: Finished three-year career at UT-Martin ranked third all-time in scoring (1,347 points) and fifth all-time in rebounding (535). In 2006-2007, he played for the Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 37 games: 13.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 46.6%, 3FGP: 33.9%, FT: 65.4%. In 2007-2008, he played for the Dallas Mavericks (NBA), only pre-season, then moved to Cairns Taipans (Australia-NBL, starting five): 13 games: 13.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 15.0%, FT: 63.4%, also played for Polpak Swiecie (Poland-DBE): 2 games: 0pts, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg. In 2008-2009, he played for the Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga): Eurocup: 5 games: 7.4ppg, 4.2rpg; German League: 28 games: 6.7ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.3%. In 2009-2010, he played for : Bakersfield Jam (D-League): 20 games: 10.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 67.2%; in Jan.'10 traded to Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League, starting five): 27 games: 8.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 60.5%. Last season, he played for Joensuun Kataja (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 55 games: 17.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.5%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

What do you like most about Christmas in Germany?

I like the Christmas markets and how festive everything is around that time of year.

What was your fondest childhood memory as a kid?

Opening presents and having the whole family around.

You are playing your second season in Finland. Has Finland become like a second home to you?

No it hasnt. Germany remains still my second home, because I still have many friends there and I always return to visit. Finland is just a destination where basketball has taken me.

Your team Joensuun Kataja is he top team in the league. What makes the team so strong?

Me and the Finish guys are playing our second season together and the new Americans B J Walker and Jeremy Price have helped. The chemistry is there.

What is your role in the team besides scoring?

My role is to do everything. I lead the team in scoring, rebounds and steals. I do what it takes to win. I play the most minutes in the league and I also help out on defense.

Does the team have what it takes to win the league title?

Yes we can. Last season, we lost in game five in the finals, but we have a stronger team this year.

If you win the title this season, wouldnt it be logical to stay and build a type of dynasty there?

Yes that does sound logical, but I still want to be on the European market and maybe play some Eurocup or Eurochallenge in the future. I respect my coach and team a lot, because he gave me a chance to help build the team and bring in Americans.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt get noticed right away?

My shooting is. I spend a lot of time working on my shooting. My shooting percentages have risen this year. Everyone knows I can dunk, but I can shoot also.

How many dunks do you do after practice?

I dont practice dunks. They just come naturally during games. I played the post in high school and I was taught never to do lay ups, but just dunk when I can.

What is the most incredible thing that you have seen BJ Walker do in a game?

I saw Walker dunk over a 6,8 man. Walker is 6,1 so I was shocked to see that he could get up like that and dunk like that.

What was your childhood like?

I had a nice childhood, but we moved around a lot so I always had to find new friends. I came from a single house hold and was a single child so I had to figure out adult things early.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

Michale Jordan and Larry Hughes, because he came from the same area and I played the same position.

You played at Tennessee Martin. Who was your most difficult opponent in the NCAA?

Taquan Dean who played at Louisville and Daniel Ewing who played at Duke.

You played your rookie season for the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. What is your fondest memory from then?

Just meeting good people and keeping friendships until today. It was a great experience playing there. It is too bad that the team doesnt play in the Beko BBL anymore.

Where would you rank your 2007 Beko BBL Allstar slam dunk win?

It is at the top. I had so much support during the competition. I gave the award to the club in a way to say thanks

You were the last cut of the Dallas Mavericks in 2007. What kind of conversations did you have with 2011 NBA champion Dirk Nowitzki?

I was talking German with him say how are you and good morning and he seemed to get a kick out of it. We did have conversations in English too. I really like his work ethic. Seeing guys like Nowitzki and Jason terry work has inspired me to work harder too.

You played in Australia with Nathan Jawai. What is still missing from him that will get him to the NBA?

I also played with him in the D-league. Jawai is an incredible talent. He just needs to get more hungry and want it more. He knows he can be a dominating force, If he wants to, he could be one of the best at his position.

You played for Chris Fleming with Bamberg in his first season as coach. Did you ever think that he could win so many titles so quickly?

Not really. His philosophy and how he handles his team compared to other coaches is different, but effective. He challenges his players in different ways. He gets his players to buy into his system and that is why he has been successful.

You played with Beckham Wyrick at Bamberg. Is there a more ultimate team player than him?

There is no better role player than him. He is a blue collar player that gets the job done. He is always taking advantage of each situation on the court.

You played in the D-league and now in Europe. Is it more comfortable playing in Europe?

In the D-league every game is important. Guys are playing to get to the NBA. There is competition and politics involved. Playing in the D-league can be good or bad. Sometimes a team may have very talented guys that need to play more, so you may get pushed down. In general playing in Europe is more comfortable.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row in practice?

40.

What was your most crazy shot that you ever made?

A shot behind my head from the free throw line.

How will the Dallas Mavericks do with Vince Carter and Lamar Odom?

They will be competitive, but wont win it all. They lost too many players and losing Tyson chandler hurt them on defense.

Is Tim Tebow god?

No he isnt god. He seems blessed and wins at each situation. Since college, everyone has said that he isnt good enough, but he proved everyone wrong.

Your favorite quote is If there is no struggle, no progress. What is your struggle?

My struggle is myself. I am my worst enemy. I have that quote as a tattoo. Some things in life are tough and you learn a lesson from it to get stronger.

Why do you like in Living Color so much?

That is classic comedy and where it all started. I also like the show Martin very much.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Laught at my pain with Kevin Hart.

Thanks Jared for the chat.

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


Best performance of Greeks playing 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
Kostas Koufos
   #1. The best performed Greek player this week who plays abroad is an international power forward Kostas Koufos (213-89, college: Ohio St.). He contributed to a Denver Nuggets'' victory against the Houston Rockets (21-19) 117-105 in the NBA last Friday. Koufos scored 10 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 21 minutes on the court. The Denver Nuggets have 22-18 record this season. It was his team''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Koufos averages: 5.5ppg, 5.4rpg, 2FGP: 59.7%(71-119) and FT: 62.9% in the 30 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Koufos is currently a member of the Greek senior national team. Interesting that he has never played in Greece.

Michael Bramos
Michael Bramos
   #2. The second best is an international swingman Michael Bramos (196-87, college: Miami, OH), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Bramos could not help Gran Canaria 2014 (8-15) to beat Real Madrid (18-4) despite his very good performance on Sunday. He was the second best scorer with 22 points; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only Bramos'' third season in pro basketball. But C.B. Gran Canaria 2014 was badly defeated 90-72 on the road by the second-ranked Real Madrid. It was Gran Canaria 2014''s third consecutive loss in a row. Bramos'' overall stats this season are: 9.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 44.9%, 3FGP: 33.7% and FT: 86.5%. He is in the roster of the Greek senior national team.

Sofoklis Schortsanitis
Sofoklis Schortsanitis
   #3. Number three best Greek abroad this week is an international center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-85). Schortsanitis contributed to a Maccabi T-A''s victory against the closely-ranked Cedevita (18-5) 83-77 in the Adriatic League last Saturday. He recorded 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in just 14 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group A. Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv (20-1) is placed first. It was Maccabi T-A''s ninth consecutive victory in a row. Schortsanitis has relatively good stats this year: 10.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 59.7%(77-129) and FT: 62.5% in the 19 games. He is also a member of the Greek senior national team.

Theodoros Papaloukas
Theodoros Papaloukas
   #4. An experienced point guard Theodoros Papaloukas (200-77, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Sofoklis Schortsanitis as their both played in the Israeli Premier League last game. Papaloukas contributed to a Maccabi T-A''s victory against the league outsiderMaccabi Haifa (3-15) 87-81. He scored 7 points and added 4 passes. It''s Papaloukas'' first season with the team. Papaloukas'' overall stats this year are: 5.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 5.0apg and 1.3spg. He used to play for the Greek national team back in 2008.

Antonis Fotsis
Antonis Fotsis
   #5. International forward Antonis Fotsis (210-81) contributed to a Armani Milano''s victory against the league outsiderNovipiu CM (6-17) 83-60 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Fotsis recorded 9 points and blocked 2 shots in 21 minutes. EA7 Emporio Armani Milano (13-9) is placed sixth in the SerieA. This year Fotsis'' overall stats are: 9.6ppg and 4.9rpg in the 22 games. He is also in the roster of the Greek national team.

Loukas Mavrokefalidis
Loukas Mavrokefalidis
   #6. Center Loukas Mavrokefalidis (209-84) was not able to help Spartak St.Petersburg (4-12) in their game against Lokomotiv (7-5) in the Russian PBL despite his good performance on Saturday. Mavrokefalidis scored 10 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. But Spartak St.Petersburg was defeated 79-67 in Kuban by the higher-ranked Lokomotiv (#4). It was Spartak St.Petersburg''s third consecutive loss in a row. This season Mavrokefalidis has relatively solid stats: 12.0ppg and 4.7rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Greek National Team roster.

Dimitrios Mavroeidis
Dimitrios Mavroeidis
   #7. International center Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-85, agency: FCM) contributed to a Gescrap BB''s victory against the closely-ranked Unicaja Malaga (0-6) 59-55 in the Euroleague last Thursday. Mavroeidis scored 8 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 17 minutes. Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket (4-2) is placed second in group F. It was Gescrap BB''s third consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. And that game will be critical. This year Mavroeidis'' total stats are: 4.3ppg and 3.8rpg in the 15 games. He plays currently for the Greek national team.

Ioannis Bourousis
Ioannis Bourousis
   #8. Center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Antonis Fotsis as their both played in the Euroleague last game. Bourousis contributed to a Armani Milano''s victory against the closely-ranked Fenerbahce Ulker (2-4) 85-72. He scored 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Bourousis has averaged so far 9.5ppg and 6.5rpg. He is also in the roster of the Greek national team.

Dimitris Haritopoulos
Dimitris Haritopoulos
   #9. Former international power forward Dimitris Haritopoulos (206-83, agency: FCM) was not able to secure a victory for ASVEL (10-10) in their game against Cholet (9-11) in the French ProA. Haritopoulos scored 9 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists. But ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket was defeated 71-67 at home by the lower-ranked Cholet (#11). Haritopoulos has averaged so far 6.8ppg and 2.3rpg. He used to play for the Greek national team seven years ago.

Nikolaos Zisis
Nikolaos Zisis
   #10. Guard Nikolaos Zisis (197-83) couldn''t help Montepaschi Siena (4-2) in their game against Real Madrid (4-2) in the Euroleague. Zisis cannot count Thursday''s game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points and added 3 passes in 17 minutes. The first-placed Montepaschi Siena lost 90-102 in Madrid to the lower-ranked (#3) Real in the group F of Euroleague. Zisis'' team will play only one more game in the Euroleague Top 16. And now that game is very crucial. Zisis has averaged so far 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg and 2.8apg in the 16 games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Greek National Team roster.

   #11. Former U20 an international small forward Dusan Sakota (209-86, agency: Beo Basket) couldn''t help Enisey Krasnoyarsk (3-11) in their game against Asseco Prokom (7-8) in the VTB United League despite his good performance on Wednesday. Sakota was the second best scorer with 12 points. He also added 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists. His team was badly defeated 89-73. Sakota has reliable stats this season: 11.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2apg and 1.3spg. He used to play for the Greek U20 national team six years ago.

   #12. Former international center Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-76, agency: Interperformances) contributed to an Lottomatica Roma''s surprising victory against the league leader Montepaschi Siena (17-6) 77-76 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Kakiouzis recorded 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 24 minutes. Kakiouzis has averaged so far 10.0ppg and 5.2rpg in the 13 games. He used to play for the Greek national team back in 2007.

   #13. International swingman Kostas Vasiliadis (200-84, agency: FCM) is a teammate of previously mentioned Dimitrios Mavroeidis and both played together in the last Euroleague game. Vasiliadis contributed to a Gescrap BB''s victory against the closely-ranked Unicaja Malaga (0-6) 59-55. He scored 5 points. Vasiliadis averaged so far 10.8ppg and 1.8rpg. He plays currently for the Greek national team.

   #14. Former U20 an international guard Igor Milosevic (193-86, agency: Beo Basket) couldn''t help New Yorker Phantoms (12-12) in their game against ratiopharm Ulm (20-5) in the German BBL despite his good performance on Saturday. Milosevic recorded 10 points in just 13 minutes. His team lost 72-81. Milosevic has averaged so far 8.5ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.5apg and 1.5spg in the four games. He used to play for the Greek U20 national team back in 2006.

   #15. Former U18 an international forward Fotios Lampropoulos (206-83) contributed to Canarias'' victory against the 17th-ranked CB Granada (6-20) 88-77 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. Lampropoulos scored 5 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. Lampropoulos has averaged so far 6.8ppg and 3.5rpg in the 26 games. He used to play for the Greek U18 national team nine years ago.


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

   #1. Alexey Savrasenko (215-C-79) was not able to secure a victory for Unics Kazan (12-2) in their game against Khimky (12-3) in the VTB United League. Savrasenko recorded 6 points in 19 minutes. The first-placed Unics Kazan lost 65-69 on the road to the second-ranked Khimky in the group A of VTB United League. It was Unics Kazan''s first loss after ten consecutive victories. There are only 2 games left until the end of the VTB United League Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Savrasenko has averaged so far 3.6ppg and 3.5rpg in the 14 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Greek and Russian as he used to play in Greece.

   #2. Angelo Tsagarakis (190-G-84) couldn''t help JL Bourg (11-13) in their game against JA Vichy (5-19) in the French ProB (second division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. Tsagarakis was the second best scorer with 14 points. But JL Bourg Basket was defeated 77-70 in Vichy by the much lower-ranked JA Vichy (#18). It was JL Bourg''s third consecutive loss in a row. Tsagarakis averaged so far 13.6ppg, 1.4rpg and 2.4apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Greek and French. Despite Tsagarakis'' Greek nationality, he previously played for the French U20 national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Greek team.

   #3. Nick Livas (198-G-88, college: Ill.-Springfield) contributed to Prievidza''s victory against the eighth-ranked Vahostav-Zilina (8-24) 92-68 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Wednesday. Livas scored 7 points. BC Prievidza (22-10) is placed second in the Extraliga. It was his team''s third consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Livas has averaged so far 4.2ppg and 2.0rpg. He is a naturalized American. However Livas has never played in Greece.

   #4. Mannos Nakos (179-PG-88) contributed to an Uppsala Basket''s victory against the closely-ranked LF Basket (18-15) 98-69 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He scored 8 points in 21 minutes. Uppsala Basket (19-15) is placed fifth in the Basketligan. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Nakos has averaged so far 5.3ppg and 1.6apg in the 32 games. He has both Greek and Swedish nationalities as he used to play in Greece.

   #5. Leonid Iailo (206-F-73) couldn''t help Mykolaiv (11-21) in their game against Hoverla (18-13) in the Ukrainian Superleague. Iailo scored only 4 points and added 3 assists. MBC Mykolaiv was defeated 84-71 in Frankivsk by the higher-ranked Hoverla (#6). It was Mykolaiv''s fifth consecutive loss in a row. There are only 4 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Iailo has been at the team for four years. He has averaged so far 6.0ppg, 4.4rpg and 1.7apg. Iailo also holds two passports: Greek and Ukrainian as he used to play in Greece.

   #6. Christian Koutras (189-G-88, college: Cuesta JC) contributed to a White Eagles'' victory against the fourth-ranked Akropol (12-8) 86-72 in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) last Sunday. He recorded 10 points and added 6 assists in 28 minutes. Koutras has averaged so far 7.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 5.5apg and 2.3spg in the four games. He holds both Greek and Swedish passports as he used to play in Greece. Despite Koutras'' Greek nationality, he previously played for the Swedish U20 national team and probably cannot be called to the Greek team.

   #7. Kosta Karamatskos (197-G-86) contributed to a Saar-Pfalz Braves'' victory against the closely-ranked Ehingen/Urspringschule (10-14) 71-54 in the German ProA (second division) last Saturday. Karamatskos recorded only 4 points and added 4 assists in 31 minutes. He has averaged so far 8.6ppg, 3.1rpg and 3.3apg in the 23 games. Karamatskos has dual citizenship: Greek and German.

   #8. Notis Chalkidis (203-C-81) couldn''t help Durham Wildcats (2-20) in their game against Plymouth Raiders (13-5) in the British BBL. He cannot count Saturday''s game as one of the best ones. Chalkidis scored only 3 points. His team was crushed 92-70. He has averaged so far 1.2ppg and 1.2rpg.

   #9. Athanasios Kalpakas (198-F-84) faced previously mentioned Christian Koutras in the Swedish Basketettan last game. Kalpakas couldn''t help Akropol (12-8) in their game against White Eagles (19-0). He cannot count Sunday''s game as one of the best ones. Kalpakas recorded only 2 points and added 3 assists in 27 minutes. His team lost 72-86. He has averaged so far 3.9ppg, 3.0rpg and 1.6apg in the 19 games. Kalpakas has Greek and Swedish nationalities.

Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Nestoras KOMMATOS
  Marousi
  (203-F-77)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Kommatos, Marousi20.4 
 2. Christmas, AGOR19.0 
 3. Charalampidi., KAO.17.0 
 4. Roby, Peristeri GS16.4 
 5. Beck, Ikaros15.6 
 6. Gagaloudis, Marousi15.6 
 7. Dikoudis, PAOK15.4 
 8. Tapoutos, Aris14.9 
 9. James, Aris14.5 
 10. Baynes, Ikaros14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aron BAYNES
  Ikaros
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Baynes, Ikaros8.9 
 2. Haritopoulos, Maro.7.6 
 3. NaNa, Ilysiakos7.6 
 4. Stepheson, Panio.7.3 
 5. Goree, PAOK7.1 
 6. Kommatos, Marousi6.6 
 7. Symtsak, Kavala6.2 
 8. O''Bryant, Kavala5.9 
 9. Bavcic, KAOD5.9 
 10. Tapoutos, Aris5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Yannis GAGALOUDIS
  Marousi
  (192-G-78)
  Avg: 6
 1. Gagaloudis, Marousi6.0 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.4.9 
 3. Diamantidis, Panat.4.5 
 4. Charalampidi., KAO.4.4 
 5. Xanthopoulos, Pani.4.2 
 6. Wright, AGOR4.1 
 7. James, Aris4.1 
 8. Thompson, Ilysi.3.8 
 9. Tsamis, Kolossos3.5 
 10. Petroulas, Perist.3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Zack WRIGHT
  AGOR
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Wright, AGOR2.4 
 2. James, Aris1.9 
 3. Logan, Panathin.1.7 
 4. Calathes, Panathin.1.7 
 5. Hatten, Kolossos1.6 
 6. Thompson, Ilysi.1.6 
 7. Christmas, AGOR1.6 
 8. Perperoglou, Panat.1.6 
 9. Baxter, Ikaros1.5 
 10. Gagaloudis, Marou.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Sam MULDROW
  Aris
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Muldrow, Aris1.5 
 2. O''Bryant, Kavala1.5 
 3. Elegar, Marousi1.1 
 4. Hines, Olympiakos1.1 
 5. Johnson, Ikaros1.0 
 6. Michel, KAOD0.9 
 7. Stepheson, Panio.0.9 
 8. Petway, AGOR0.9 
 9. Vougioukas, Panat.0.8 
 10. Pettway, PAOK0.8 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Olympiakos 20-1 
 2. Panathinaikos 18-2 
 3. Kolossos 14-6 
 4. AGOR 13-7 
 5. Panionios 13-7 
 6. Kavala 11-10 
 7. PAOK 9-12 
 8. Aris 8-12 
 9. KAOD 7-13 
 10. Ilysiakos 7-14 
 11. Peristeri GS 6-14 
 12. Ikaros 5-16 
 13. Marousi 1-20 


Michael Taylor claims Greek A1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Michael Taylor (188-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) had an amazing evening in the last round for Kavala and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 22.
The 25-year old guard had the game-high 40 points adding three rebounds and four assists for Kavala in his team's victory, helping them to beat KAOD (#9, 7-13) 100-86. Kavala maintains the 6th position in Greek A1. Kavala is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 11-10 record. In the team's last game Taylor had a remarkable 54.5% from 2-point range and got eight three-pointers out of 13 attempts. He turned to be Kavala's top player in his first season with the team. Michael Taylor averages this season 14.4ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American forward Brent Petway (204-F-85) of AGOR. Petway impressed basketball fans with 21 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists. Of course he lead AGOR to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Peristeri GS (#11, 6-14) 75-46. This victory allowed AGOR to move up to 4th position in the standings. His team's 13-7 record is not bad at all. Petway is a newcomer at AGOR and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was former international swingman Dimitrios Tsaldaris (195-G/F-80) of Aris (#8). Tsaldaris scored 25 points. He was a key player of Aris, leading his team to a 79-74 win against slightly lower-ranked Ilysiakos (#10, 7-14). The chances of Aris ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 12 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Tsaldaris could help Aris to bring them higher in the standings. Tsaldaris has a very solid season. In 14 games in Greece he scored 7.6ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Christoforos Stefanidis (185-PG-80) of Kavala - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Darryl Thompson (173-PG-85) of Ilysiakos - 23 points and 2 rebounds
6. Kostas Papanikolaou (204-F-90) of Olympiakos - 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Aleks Maric (211-C-84) of Panathinaikos - 9 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Kostas Kakaroudis (204-C-83) of KAOD - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85) of Panathinaikos - 11 points and 7 rebounds
10. Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88) of Kavala - 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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


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


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


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


Adam Hanga
Adam Hanga
   #1. The best performed Hungarian player this week who plays abroad is an international guard Adam Hanga (201-89, agency: TSS Management). He contributed to an Assignia Manresa''s victory against the closely-ranked Cajasol (12-11) 76-71 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Hanga scored only 2 points in 17 minutes on the court. Assignia Manresa (12-11) is placed tenth in the ACB. It was his team''s third consecutive victory in a row. This year Hanga averages: 7.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 19.6% and FT: 67.2% in the 23 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Hungarian senior national team.

Peter Szabo
Peter Szabo
   #2. The second best is University an international guard Peter Szabo (183-89). Szabo contributed to Komarno''s victory against the eighth-ranked Vahostav-Zilina (8-24) 72-67 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Saturday. He scored only 3 points. MBK Rieker Komarno (22-10) is placed first in the Extraliga. It was his team''s ninth consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It''s Szabo''s first season with the team. Szabo''s overall stats this year are: 5.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 57.4%(35-61), 3FGP: 32.9% and FT: 88.9%. He is in the roster of the Hungarian university national team.

Gyorgy Polya
Gyorgy Polya
   #3. Number three best Hungarian abroad this week is former U20 an international guard Gyorgy Polya (195-88). Polya contributed to a Leeds Carnegie''s victory against the league outsiderWestminster Warriors (2-16) 67-62 in the British EBL (second division) last Saturday. He scored 5 points in 9 minutes. Leeds Carnegie (2-12) is placed eighth in the EBL. Polya has been at the team for four years. This season Polya''s overall stats are: 6.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 35.3%, 3FGP: 39.1% in the seven games. He played for the Hungarian U20 national team four years ago.


Other top Hungarian players, who play abroad:

Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85) plays for Lagun Aro GBC in Spanish ACB
Zsolt Bencsik plays for Okapi Aalstar in Belgian D1
Laszlo Dobos (221-C-93) plays for Ikaros in Greek A1
Peter Hajmasy (193-F-88) plays for Komarno in Slovakian Extraliga
Georg Matyas (190-G-63) plays for Xion Dukes in Austrian A Bundesliga
Daniel Deri (91) plays for Gussing Knights in Austrian A Bundesliga
Gabor Barlai (175-PG-91) plays for UBSC Graz in Austrian A Bundesliga
Attila Pal (194-F/C-78) plays for Bernex in Swiss LNB
Zoltan Kollar (210-C-82) plays for Rostock EBC in German Regionalliga
Zsolt Klir (200-F-88) plays for Gelnhausen in German 2.Regionalliga
Tamas Halmai (202-F/C-87) plays for Oberelchingen in German 2.Regionalliga
Tamas Markus (180-G/F-89) plays for Bodfeld Baskets in German Oberliga

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

Kornel David is back at the National Team - by Balazs Radics
Former NBA player Kornel David (207-F-71) will be Hungarian Male National Team manager, and will help newly promoted Head Coach, Laszlo Ratgeber job. The Hungarian Federation also confirmed Ivan Bodrogvari at the Female National Team as the team manager. The next season basketball will recive a record 1.17 bn HUF, thanks to the government new tax rules and will focus on youth programs - hosting U16 and U20 A division European Championship.

A Division Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Justin INGRAM
  FS Debre.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 25
 1. Ingram, FS Debre.25.0 
 2. Timberlake, Falco-.21.9 
 3. Ciric, PVSK P.21.3 
 4. Raivio, Kaposvari21.3 
 5. Doyne, PVSK P.20.9 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak20.6 
 7. Austin, Jaszberenyi20.5 
 8. Jones, Jaszberenyi20.2 
 9. Bell, Kormend19.3 
 10. Levy, Szedeak19.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jonathan JONES
  Jaszberenyi
  (211-C-79)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Jones, Jaszberenyi12.6 
 2. Szabo, FS Debrecen9.8 
 3. Miskovic, Marso N.9.6 
 4. Fey, Kaposvari9.1 
 5. Townes, Kormend8.8 
 6. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.8.8 
 7. Bader, Szolnok8.7 
 8. Austin, Jaszberenyi8.7 
 9. Raivio, Kaposvari8.6 
 10. Ivosev, Szedeak8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Laszlo KALMAN
  Falco-Sz.
  (186-G-72)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Kalman, Falco-Sz.7.8 
 2. Wilson, Kaposvari5.9 
 3. Williams, Atomeromu5.8 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok5.8 
 5. Simon, Albacomp5.7 
 6. Ingram, FS Debre.5.5 
 7. Fekete, Marso N.4.9 
 8. Thomas, Soproni4.4 
 9. Drahos, Szedeak4.3 
 10. Vasojevic, PVSK P.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Stefan FEKETE
  Marso N.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Fekete, Marso N.2.8 
 2. Drahos, Szedeak2.6 
 3. Ivosev, Szedeak2.4 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok2.4 
 5. Raivio, Kaposvari2.4 
 6. Ingram, FS Debre.2.3 
 7. Doyne, PVSK P.2.3 
 8. Perine, ZTE K.2.2 
 9. Toth, PVSK P.2.2 
 10. Hodges, Jaszbere.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Kormend
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Townes, Kormend2.4 
 2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.1.8 
 3. Keller, Albacomp1.5 
 4. Jones, Jaszberenyi1.4 
 5. Levy, Szedeak1.1 
 6. Morgen, Atomeromu1.0 
 7. Ivosev, Szedeak1.0 
 8. Cole, Atomeromu1.0 
 9. Chism, Albacomp1.0 
 10. Hines, ZTE K.0.9 


Standings - A Division
A Division Standings
 1. Falco-Szova 18-3 
 2. Albacomp 17-4 
 3. Szolnok 17-4 
 4. Kormend 16-5 
 5. Atomeromu 14-7 
 6. Kecskemeti 13-8 
 7. PVSK Pannon 11-10 
 8. Soproni 9-12 
 9. Kaposvari 8-13 
 10. Marso NYKK 7-14 
 11. Szedeak 6-15 
 12. FS Debrecen 5-16 
 13. Jaszberenyi 5-16 
 14. ZTE KK 1-20 


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


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


Jon Stefansson
Jon Stefansson
   #1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international guard Jon Stefansson (196-82), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He could not help CAI Zaragoza (12-11) to beat Lagun Aro GBC (13-10). Stefansson scored 6 points and added 3 assists in 26 minutes on the court. CAI Zaragoza was edged 76-75 on the road by the higher-ranked Lagun Aro GBC (#5). It''s Stefansson''s first season with the team. This year he averages: 8.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 47.3%, 3FGP: 37.2% and FT: 86.7%. Stefansson played for the Icelandic national team three years ago.

Jakob Sigurdarson
Jakob Sigurdarson
   #2. Number two best Icelandic abroad this week is former international guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern). He led Sundsvall Dragons to a victory against the closely-ranked Uppsala Basket (19-15) 102-95 in the Swedish Basketligan last Friday. Sigurdarson scored 17 points and added 3 assists. Sundsvall Dragons (20-13) is placed third in the Basketligan. It was Sundsvall Dragons'' seventh consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Sigurdarson belongs to league''s top scorers and is ranked #3. He has individually a very good year with high stats. Sigurdarson averages: 19.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 40.3% and FT: 92.0%(103-112) in the 33 games he played so far. He played for the Icelandic senior national team three years ago.

Hlynur Baeringsson
Hlynur Baeringsson
   #3. Third place goes to former international power forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jakob Sigurdarson and both played together in the last Swedish Basketligan game. Baeringsson contributed to a Sundsvall Dragons'' victory against the closely-ranked Uppsala Basket (19-15) 102-95. He scored 11 points, had 6 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 33 minutes. Baeringsson is ranked second on the list of the best rebounders in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.4ppg, 10.2rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 56.9%(132-232), 3FGP: 35.3% and FT: 76.2%. Baeringsson played for the Icelandic national team in 2009.

Helgi Magnusson
Helgi Magnusson
   #4. Swingman Helgi Magnusson (198-82, college: Catawba) was the major contributor in a 08 Stockholm''s victory against the closely-ranked Solna Vikings (17-17) 89-77 in the Swedish Basketligan last Friday. He scored 16 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. 08 Stockholm (15-18) is placed eighth in the Basketligan. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Magnusson has relatively good stats this year: 13.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.2apg and 1.2spg in the 33 games. He used to play for the Icelandic national team back in 2009.

Darrel Lewis
Darrel Lewis
   #5. An experienced former international guard Darrel Lewis (192-76, college: Lincoln, MO) was not able to help OFI (11-10) in their game against Ermis Lagkada (11-10) in the Greek A2 (second division) despite his very good performance on Saturday. Lewis was the top scorer with 20 points. He also added 7 steals in 33 minutes. But OF Irakleio was defeated 93-82 in Lagadas by the lower-ranked Ermis Lagkada (#9). They ended the series of three consecutive victories. Lewis is currently first on the league''s list of most steals. This season he has very good stats: 15.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.1apg and 1.8spg. Lewis is a naturalized American. He used to play for the Icelandic national team seven years ago. Lewis played also for Reynir S. in Icelandic league.

Logi Gunnarsson
Logi Gunnarsson
   #6. Guard Logi Gunnarsson (190-81) helped Solna Vikings win their game against the league leader Sodertalje Kings (22-12) 85-68 in the Swedish Basketligan last Tuesday. He scored 13 points and added 3 passes. Solna Vikings (17-17) is placed seventh in the Basketligan. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Gunnarsson is currently eighth on the league''s list of top scorers. He has very impressive stats this year: 16.5ppg, 3.2rpg and 2.6apg in the 34 games. Gunnarsson is a former international player as he played for the Icelandic senior team three years ago.

Axel Karason
Axel Karason
   #7. Former international forward Axel Karason (193-83) helped Vaerlose win their game against the closely-ranked Aalborg (9-18) 79-73 in the Danish Ligaen last Sunday. He scored 13 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 31 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: 12.0ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.1apg. He used to play for the Icelandic national team six years ago.

Brynjar Bjornsson
Brynjar Bjornsson
   #8. Guard Brynjar Bjornsson (191-88, college: Francis Marion) was not able to secure a victory for KFUM Jamtland (13-21) in their game against Boras Basket (20-14) in the Swedish Basketligan despite his good performance on Friday. Bjornsson scored 10 points. But KFUM Jamtland Basket lost 76-80 in Boras to the higher-ranked (#4) Basket. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. Bjornsson has reliable stats this year: 10.6ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.0apg in the 34 games. He used to play for the Icelandic national team back in 2007.

Olafur Sigurdsson
Olafur Sigurdsson
   #9. Former U18 an international point guard Olafur Sigurdsson (180-82) couldn''t help Aabyhoj (8-19) in their game against Naestved (17-10) in the Danish Ligaen despite his good performance on Sunday. Sigurdsson scored 11 points in 23 minutes. But Aabyhoj IF was crushed 93-69 on the opponent court by the higher-ranked Naestved (#3). It was Aabyhoj''s fifth consecutive loss in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Sigurdsson''s overall stats this season are: 6.7ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.6apg. He used to play for the Icelandic U18 national team twelve years ago.


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

   #1. Sigurdur Einarsson (187-G-82) managed to help Horsens IC in a victory against the closely-ranked SISU (12-15) 94-81 in the Danish Ligaen last Sunday. Einarsson scored only 3 points. Horsens IC (12-15) is placed fourth in the Ligaen. It was his team''s fourth consecutive victory in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. This year Einarsson averages just 4.3ppg in the 26 games he played so far.

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


Bryan Mullins - top Irish player abroad last week - by Eurobasket Center
Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Irish who are currently playing abroad.


Bryan Mullins
Bryan Mullins
   #1. This week''s top performance spot belongs to former international point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois). Mullins led Chalons-Reims to a victory against the 16th-ranked SPO Rouen (9-15) 83-77 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday. He scored 14 points, had 4 boards, dished 3 assists and stole 3 balls (went 5 for 5 at the free throw line) in 34 minutes on the court; not bad, considering it''s only Mullins'' third season in pro basketball. Chalons-Reims (17-7) is placed third in the ProB. Mullins belongs to league''s best passers and is ranked #6. This season he averages: 9.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 5.0apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 44.9%, 3FGP: 35.8% and FT: 72.1%. Mullins is a naturalized American. He played for the Irish national team three years ago. However Mullins has never played in Ireland.

Colin O''Reilly
Colin O''Reilly
   #2. Number two best Irish abroad this week is former international forward Colin O''Reilly (200-84, college: Post), who plays in the British BBL. He could not help Cheshire Jets (6-13) to beat Newcastle Eagles (18-2) despite his very good performance on Sunday. O''Reilly was the second best scorer with 18 points. He also added 9 rebounds and dished 5 assists. But Cheshire Jets lost 82-95 at home to the leading Newcastle Eagles. O''Reilly has relatively good stats this year: 14.9ppg, 7.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 38.0% and FT: 71.8% in the 17 games he played so far. He played for the Irish senior national team three years ago.

Conor Grace
Conor Grace
   #3. Third place goes to former international forward Conor Grace (210-82, college: Davidson). He was not able to help Uppsala Basket (19-15) in their game against Sundsvall Dragons (20-13) in the Swedish Basketligan. Grace scored only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Uppsala Basket lost 95-102 on the road to the higher-ranked (#3) Sundsvall Dragons. There are only 2 games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Grace''s overall stats are: 2.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 2FGP: 33.3% in the two games. He played for the Irish national team in 2009.

Donnie McGrath
Donnie McGrath
   #4. Guard Donnie McGrath (193-84, college: Providence) managed to help Tezenis Verona to win in overtime against the fifth-ranked Sigma Barcellona (12-9) 98-96 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. McGrath recorded only 2 points in 13 minutes. It was his first game for Tezenis Verona this season. His team is placed tenth in the Lega2. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. McGrath is a naturalized American. He used to play for the Irish national team back in 2008. Strangely McGrath has never played in Ireland.


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

   #1. Andrew James Ogilvy (211-C-88, college: Vanderbilt) led his Spanish team Valencia Basket to a victory over the closely-ranked VEF Riga (3-3) 82-71 in the Eurocup last Tuesday. He was MVP of the game. Ogilvy scored 20 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 22 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it''s only his second season in pro basketball. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first in group I. So far his team won all six games in the Top 16. Ogilvy''s team will play only one more game in the Eurocup Top 16. And that game will be critical. This season Ogilvy averages: 9.8ppg and 3.5rpg. He has a dual citizenship: Australian and Irish. Despite Ogilvy''s Irish passport, he currently plays for the Australian national team and is not eligible to play for the Irish team.

   #2. Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh) contributed to a Blusens Monbus'' surprising victory against the sixth-ranked Meridiano Alicante (13-10) 64-63 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Kendall scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Blusens Monbus Obradoiro CAB (7-16) is placed 15th in the ACB. This year Kendall averages: 8.5ppg and 5.7rpg in the 23 games he played so far. He is another player who holds two passports: Canadian and Irish. Despite Kendall''s Irish nationality, he currently plays for the Canadian national team and cannot be called to the Irish team.

   #3. Mihajlo Pesic (206-F/C-81, agency: Court Side) was not able to help Inter Bratislava (9-24) in their game against NH Ostrava (19-14) in the Czech Republic NBL despite his good performance on Wednesday. Pesic scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 24 minutes. But the sixth-placed BK Inter Bratislava was badly defeated 78-61 on the road by the leading NH Ostrava in the A2 group. It was Inter Bratislava''s third consecutive loss in a row. It''s Pesic''s first season with the team. Pesic is ranked sixth on the list of the best rebounders in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.8ppg and 7.9rpg. Pesic has both Irish and Serbian nationalities.


Other top Irish players, who play abroad:

Steven Hale (200-F-75) plays for Chorale de Roanne in French ProA
Allen Conlan (196-F-74) plays for Xion Dukes in Austrian A Bundesliga
Tony McCrory (199-G/F-77) plays for Starwings in Swiss LNA
Ian O''Boyle (191-G-84) plays for McDonalds Manawatu Jets in New Zealand NBL
James Kelly (183-G-87) plays for Killamarsh Derbyshire Arrows in British EBL2
Mike Commane (211-C-82) plays for Mandelieu in French NM3
Mark Donnelly (196-G-75) plays for New Jersey Shorecats in the USBL
Marc Mulvey (180-G-75) plays for Fabriano in Italian B dilettanti

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

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


stats leader
Points Per Game
 Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.7
 1. Musso, Napoli19.7 
 2. Evangelisti, Recan.17.1 
 3. Portannese, Torino16.3 
 4. Ferrarese, Castell.15.3 
 5. Prandin, Casalp.15.2 
 6. Mei, Comsum.it SI14.8 
 7. Benevelli, Orlandi.14.6 
 8. Tessitori, Comsum..14.5 
 9. Poltroneri, Perugia14.4 
 10. Pazzi, Trento14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Rossi, Chieti12.9 
 2. Iannilli, Napoli9.6 
 3. Tessitori, Comsum..8.3 
 4. Borra, Treviglio8.3 
 5. Benevelli, Orlandi.8.2 
 6. Gandini, Trieste8.2 
 7. Baldi Rossi, Perug.8.1 
 8. Simeoli, Comsum.i.8.0 
 9. Iannuzzi, Ferentino7.7 
 10. Raminelli, Castel.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Bertolazzi, Omegna4.3 
 2. Musso, Napoli4.0 
 3. Circosta, Anagni3.9 
 4. Stanic, Fabriano3.6 
 5. Guarino, Ferentino3.4 
 6. Santolamazza, Ana.3.2 
 7. Vico, Matera3.1 
 8. Parente, Torino3.0 
 9. Ferrarese, Castell.2.9 
 10. Ruggiero, Bari2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Iardella, Fabriano3.1 
 2. Bertolazzi, Omegna3.1 
 3. Maggio, Pavia3.0 
 4. Malamov, Anagni2.9 
 5. Rossi, Chieti2.8 
 6. Portannese, Torino2.8 
 7. Rivali, Santarcang.2.8 
 8. Musso, Napoli2.8 
 9. Truccolo, Perugia2.7 
 10. Mei, Comsum.it SI2.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Capitanelli, Firen.1.8 
 2. Ancellotti, Santar.1.7 
 3. Borra, Treviglio1.5 
 4. Pascolo, Trento1.1 
 5. Gandini, Trieste1.1 
 6. Candido, San Seve.1.1 
 7. Tessitori, Comsum..1.0 
 8. Cazzaniga, Pavia1.0 
 9. Raminelli, Castell.0.9 
 10. Cotani, Castellet.0.9 


Moss to replace McCalebb in the All Star Game - by Andrea Centenari
Montepaschi Siena guard, David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) will replace his teammate Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) in the italian All Star Game that will take place at the Adriatic Arena in Pesaro on the next 11th of March.
There will be also some absences in the Italian National Team. Bennet Cantu pointguard, Andrea Cinciarini (193-PG-86) and Acea Virtus Roma forward Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) will be out of the game due to some little injuries and Benetton Treviso guard Jeffrey Viggiano (197-F-84, college: Massachusetts) will replace Montepaschi Siena forward Pietro Aradori (194-SG-88) (left ankle).

Standings - SerieA
SerieA Standings
 1. Montepaschi 17-6 
 2. Bennet Cantu 14-8 
 3. Banco di Sard. 14-8 
 4. CS Bologna 14-9 
 5. Umana Venezia 13-8 
 6. Armani Mit 13-9 
 7. Scavolini PS 12-9 
 8. Cimberio VA 12-11 
 9. Sidigas AV 12-11 
 10. Angelico BI 11-12 
 11. Otto Caserta 10-12 
 12. Acea Roma 10-13 
 13. Benetton TV 9-13 
 14. Fabi Shoes 8-13 
 15. Vanoli CR 8-15 
 16. Banca Tercas 7-16 
 17. Novipiu CM 6-17 


Standings - B1
Nazionale Standings
Div.North-East
 1. Trieste 19-9 
 2. Trento 19-9 
 3. Perugia 12-15 
 4. Santarcangelo 10-18 
 5. Firenze 8-20 
 6. Comsum.it SI 8-20 
Div.North-West
 1. Omegna 25-4 
 2. Torino 18-11 
 3. Treviglio 17-11 
 4. Casalpusterlengo 17-11 
 5. Pavia 14-15 
 6. Castelletto 10-18 
Div.South-East
 1. Recanati 15-12 
 2. Chieti 15-13 
 3. Bari 15-13 
 4. San Severo 12-16 
 5. Fabriano 8-19 
 6. Ruvo 3-25 
Div.South-West
 1. Napoli 24-5 
 2. Orlandina 17-11 
 3. Ferentino 16-11 
 4. Latina Basket 13-15 
 5. Matera 11-16 
 6. Anagni 10-17 


Stats Leaders - SerieA
Points Per Game
 Von WAFER
  Vanoli CR
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 20.1
 1. Wafer, Vanoli CR20.1 
 2. Smith, Otto C.18.0 
 3. Coleman, Angelico.17.6 
 4. White, Scavolin.16.7 
 5. Shakur, Novipiu CM16.5 
 6. Pullen, Angelico BI16.3 
 7. Dean, Sidigas AV16.3 
 8. Diener, Banco d.16.1 
 9. Andersen, Montepa.15.7 
 10. Green, Sidigas AV15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.10.7 
 2. Johnson, Sidigas9.5 
 3. Adrien, Benetton9.0 
 4. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes7.7 
 5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes7.6 
 6. Smith, Otto C.7.4 
 7. Chiotti, Novip.7.3 
 8. Jones, Scavolini PS7.2 
 9. Dragicevic, Angeli.6.6 
 10. Gigli, CS Bologna6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Green, Sidigas AV6.3 
 2. Collins, Otto Case.5.7 
 3. Diener, Banco d.5.2 
 4. Cook, Armani Mit5.1 
 5. Shakur, Novipiu CM4.5 
 6. Poeta, CS Bologna4.1 
 7. Stipcevic, Cimberi.3.9 
 8. McIntyre, CS Bo.3.9 
 9. Brown, Banca T.3.3 
 10. Pullen, Angelico3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Coleman, Angelico.3.0 
 2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes2.6 
 3. Green, Sidigas AV2.3 
 4. Hosley, Banco d.2.3 
 5. Hackett, Scavolin.2.3 
 6. Dean, Sidigas AV2.0 
 7. Pullen, Angelico BI2.0 
 8. Poeta, CS Bologna1.9 
 9. Bowers, Umana V.1.8 
 10. Collins, Otto Cas.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Greg BRUNNER
  Bennet C.
  (201-C/F-83)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Brunner, Bennet C.1.4 
 2. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.4 
 3. Easley, Banco d.1.4 
 4. Shermadini, Bennet1.0 
 5. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.0 
 6. Johnson, Sidigas0.9 
 7. Bourousis, Armani0.9 
 8. Slokar, Acea Roma0.9 
 9. Viggiano, Benetton.0.8 
 10. Adrien, Benetton0.8 


Nazionale A Round 29: Trento loses #1 position - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in Nazionale A is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 5 rounds. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with change at the leadership position and favorites losing the games.

Round 29 in Nazionale A means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Trieste where host Trieste (19-9) crushed league's leader Trento (19-9) 91-60 on Thursday evening. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Trieste dominated on the defensive end, holding Trento to just 6 points in second quarter. They also forced 21 Trento turnovers and outrebounded them 42-26 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Trento helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was power forward Marco Maganza (204-91) who scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. The former international point guard Marco Carra (185-80) chipped in 16 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Naturalized Argentinian point guard Andres Forray (187-86) produced 11 points and 6 rebounds for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Trieste keeps a position of league leader, which they share with defeated Trento. Trento will play next round against Firenze trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Trieste will try to continue on its current victory against first ranked Omegna on the road.
Top ranked Recanati (15-12) recorded its twelfth loss on the court of fourth ranked Latina Basket. Visitors were defeated by Latina Basket 88-81. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Recanati. The former international point guard Riccardo Serena (181-82) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Andrea Quarisa contributed with 9 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. Latina Basket's coach Mattia Ferrari allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Marco Evangelisti (198-84) answered with 26 points for Recanati. Latina Basket maintains fourth place with 13-15 record. Recanati at the other side still keeps top position with 12 games lost. Latina Basket will play against Fabriano (#5) in the next round. Recanati will play against Anagni (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in San Severo between Mazzeo San Severo and Orlandina. Fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (12-16) got a very close home victory over second-ranked Orlandina (17-11). Mazzeo San Severo managed to escape with a 2-point win 59-57 on Thursday evening. Francesco Amoroso stepped up and scored 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Nicholas Crow responded with 17 points. Mazzeo San Severo maintains fourth place with 12-16 record. Newly promoted Orlandina keeps the second position with 11 games lost. They share it with Treviglio and Casalpusterlengo. Mazzeo San Severo will meet league's leader Napoli on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Orlandina will play against the league's second-placed Chieti and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Torino. First ranked Omegna faced second-ranked Torino. Guests from Omegna (25-4) defeated host Torino (18-11) 105-96. Pierpaolo Picazio nailed 23 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Omegna maintains first place with 25-4 record. Torino at the other side keeps the second position with 11 games lost. Omegna's next round opponent will be league's leader Trieste at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torino will play against Comsum.it SI in Siena.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Treviglio. Third ranked Treviglio faced 3rd placed Perugia. Host Treviglio (17-11) defeated guests from Perugia (12-15) 84-76. The best player for the winners was Tommaso Marino who scored 20 points and 4 assists. Perugia's coach Andrea Fabrizi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Treviglio moved-up to second place, which they share with Orlandina and Casalpusterlengo. Loser Perugia keeps the third position with 15 games lost. Treviglio will face Castelletto (#6) at home in the next round. Perugia will play against Casalpusterlengo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games of round 29 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Ferentino defeated Matera in a road game 74-63. Bari smashed Fabriano at home 76-55. Comsum.it SI lost to Castelletto on the opponent's court 76-87. Anagni unfortunately lost to Napoli in a home game 68-76. Chieti managed to beat Ruvo on the road 78-68. Firenze defeated Santarcangelo on its own court 88-70. Casalpusterlengo beat Pavia in a road game 69-54.
The best stats of 29th round was 38 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds by Marco Portannese of Torino.


Matera - Ferentino 63-74

There was no surprise when 5th ranked Matera (11-16) was defeated at home by third ranked Ferentino (16-11) 74-63 on Thursday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Ferentino forced 20 Matera turnovers and outrebounded them 43-30 including 28 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was naturalized Argentinian swingman Manuel Carrizo (198-80, agency: Players Group) who scored 20 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Power forward Antonio Iannuzzi (207-91) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian guard Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) produced 13 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals and swingman Andrea LaGioia (194-86, agency: Players Group) added 19 points respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Ferentino maintains third place with 16-11 record having eleven points less than leader Napoli. Matera lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 16 games lost. Ferentino will face Bari (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Matera will play against Ruvo in Ruvo di Puglia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Matera: A.LaGioia 19+2reb+1ast, G.Cantagalli 15+4reb+1ast, S.Vico 13+5reb+7ast, A.Pilotti 7+3reb+1ast, P.Aprea 4+1reb, L.Tardito 2+4reb
Ferentino: M.Carrizo 20+6reb, A.Iannuzzi 15+6reb, F.Ihedioha 9+10reb+1ast, F.Gagliardo 9+5reb+2ast, F.Guarino 6+2reb+3ast, L.Panzini 6+2reb
gschID: 135910


Bari - Fabriano 76-55

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Bari (15-13) smashed at home 5th ranked Fabriano (8-19) 76-55 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Bari. Fabriano was better in second period 22-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Fabriano's 34. Bari forced 21 Fabriano turnovers and outrebounded them 45-18 including a 18-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81) who scored 11 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals. Naturalized Maltese center Samuel Deguara (224-91) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Four Bari players scored in double figures. Forward Giorgio Sgobba (202-92) produced 19 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and swingman Nicolas D'Arrigo (190-93) added 8 points respectively for the guests. Bari moved-up to second place, which they share with Chieti. Fabriano at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fifth position with 19 games lost. Bari will face Ferentino (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fabriano will play against Latina Basket and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fabriano: G.Sgobba 19+3reb, N.D'Arrigo 8+3reb+3ast, C.Fontani 8+2reb+1ast, G.Castelletta 8+3reb+1ast, L.Usberti 6+4reb+2ast, D.Liberati 4+1reb+4ast
Bari: S.Gigena 15+8reb, S.Deguara 14+10reb, D.Morena 12+5reb+2ast, A.Ruggiero 11+9reb+5ast, M.Bona 9+2reb+2ast, F.Mian 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 135911


Castelletto - Comsum.it SI 87-76

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 5th ranked Comsum.it SI (8-20) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked Castelletto (10-18) 87-76 on Thursday. Castelletto moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Santarcangelo. Loser Comsum.it SI keeps the fifth position with 20 games lost. Castelletto will face higher ranked Treviglio (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Comsum.it SI will play against the league's second-placed Torino.
gschID: 135904


Torino - Omegna 96-105

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Torino. First ranked Omegna faced second-ranked Torino. Guests from Omegna (25-4) defeated host Torino (18-11) 105-96. Omegna made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 27 Torino turnovers. Strangely Torino outrebounded Omegna 42-26 including a 17-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Guard Pierpaolo Picazio (193-79, agency: Players Group) nailed 23 points and 5 assists for the winning side and guard Andrea Saccaggi (192-89, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 20 points. Guard Marco Portannese (192-89, agency: Players Group) came up with 38 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and the former international power forward Francesco Conti (205-83) added 15 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Torino in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Omegna maintains first place with 25-4 record. Torino at the other side keeps the second position with 11 games lost. Omegna's next round opponent will be league's leader Trieste at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torino will play against Comsum.it SI in Siena.
Top scorers:
Torino: M.Portannese 38+8reb+1ast, F.Conti 15+10reb+2ast, L.Fontecchio 11+7reb+1ast, D.Parente 10+5reb+6ast, F.Tassinari 10+4reb+2ast, M.Giadini 7+6reb
Omegna: P.Picazio 23+3reb+5ast, A.Saccaggi 20+2reb, M.Bertolazzi 14+3reb+1ast, F.Prelazzi 13+5reb, D.Casadei 13+7reb+1ast, M.Toure 11+1reb
gschID: 135905


Latina Basket - Recanati 88-81

Top ranked Recanati (15-12) recorded its twelfth loss on the court of fourth ranked Latina Basket. Visitors were defeated by Latina Basket 88-81. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Recanati. Latina Basket made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. The former international point guard Riccardo Serena (181-82) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Power forward Andrea Quarisa (202-92) contributed with 9 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. Latina Basket's coach Mattia Ferrari allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Marco Evangelisti (198-84) answered with 26 points and guard Andrea Traini (-93) added 17 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Recanati. Latina Basket maintains fourth place with 13-15 record. Recanati at the other side still keeps top position with 12 games lost. Latina Basket will play against Fabriano (#5) in the next round. Recanati will play against Anagni (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Recanati: M.Evangelisti 26+4reb+2ast, A.Traini 17+7reb+2ast, A.Cecchetti 10+5reb, S.Centanni 9+2reb+1ast, P.Chiarello 8+3reb, A.Pierini 5+7reb+2ast
Latina Basket: R.Romano 22+4reb, R.Serena 19+6reb+4ast, M.Micevic 17+5reb+1ast, A.Quarisa 9+19reb+1ast, T.Plateo 9+2ast, G.Gazzotti 5+5reb
gschID: 135906


Anagni - Napoli 68-76

Very predictable result when first ranked Napoli (24-5) beat on the road 6th ranked Anagni (10-17) 76-68 on Thursday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Anagni won fourth quarter 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was power forward Paolo Rotondo (205-89, agency: Players Group) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Players Group) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds and Nicolo Benedusi (193-88) added 17 points respectively for the hosts. Napoli have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first place with 24-5 record. Loser Anagni keeps the sixth position with 17 games lost. Napoli will face Mazzeo San Severo (#4) at home in the next round. Anagni will play against the league's leader Recanati.
Top scorers:
Anagni: D.Corral 20+14reb+1ast, N.Benedusi 17+3reb+2ast, J.Pozzi 10+5reb+1ast, V.Circosta 7+5reb+3ast, A.Zanelli 6+4reb, L.Ciribeni 6+4reb+1ast
Napoli: P.Rotondo 20+14reb+2ast, B.Musso 13+5reb+2ast, G.Guastaferro 10+3reb, S.Gatti 8+9reb+1ast, N.Rizzitiello 7+2reb+1ast, S.Lenardon 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 135907


Ruvo - Chieti 68-78

Not a big story in a game in Ruvo di Puglia where 6th ranked Ruvo (3-25) was defeated by third ranked Chieti (15-13) 78-68 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Chieti. Ruvo was better in second period 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Chieti forced 21 Ruvo turnovers. The best player for the winners was the former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 17 rebounds. Forward Roberto Feliciangeli (203-74) chipped in 21 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Marco Tagliabue (206-86) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Pasquale de Martino (195-91) added 19 points respectively for the hosts. Chieti have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Bari. Ruvo lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 25 games lost. Chieti will face league's second-placed Orlandina at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ruvo will play against Matera (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ruvo: P.de Martino 19+3reb+1ast, M.Tagliabue 15+10reb+1ast, F.Emejuru 12+5reb+1ast, G.Tomasiello 8+1reb+1ast, S.Zanotti 5, D.Merletto 4+3reb+2ast
Chieti: R.Feliciangeli 21+6reb+4ast, E.Rossi 18+17reb, A.Raschi 16+3reb+5ast, F.Gialloreto 9+1reb, S.Rajola 8+2reb+1ast, M.Diomede 6+2ast
gschID: 135908


San Severo - Orlandina 59-57

A very close game took place in San Severo between Mazzeo San Severo and Orlandina. Fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (12-16) got a very close home victory over second-ranked Orlandina (17-11). Mazzeo San Severo managed to escape with a 2-point win 59-57 on Thursday evening. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 16-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Forward Francesco Amoroso (202-78) stepped up and scored 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and swingman Giovanni Rugolo (196-81) chipped in 16 points. Forward Nicholas Crow (199-89) responded with 17 points and the former international power forward Luca Bisconti (206-82) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. Mazzeo San Severo maintains fourth place with 12-16 record. Newly promoted Orlandina keeps the second position with 11 games lost. They share it with Treviglio and Casalpusterlengo. Mazzeo San Severo will meet league's leader Napoli on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Orlandina will play against the league's second-placed Chieti and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Orlandina: N.Crow 17+3reb+2ast, L.Bisconti 8+8reb, D.Bonacini 7+3reb+3ast, A.Benevelli 7+4reb+1ast, G.Zampolli 6+3reb, F.Zanelli 5+1reb+1ast
San Severo: F.Amoroso 16+6reb+3ast, G.Rugolo 16+2reb+1ast, I.Scarponi 12+2reb+1ast, F.Candido 8+7reb, R.Marzoli 6+5reb, M.Poluzzi 1+2reb+1ast
gschID: 135909


Trieste - Trento 91-60

Round 29 in Nazionale A means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Trieste where host Trieste (19-9) crushed league's leader Trento (19-9) 91-60 on Thursday evening. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Trieste dominated on the defensive end, holding Trento to just 6 points in second quarter. They also forced 21 Trento turnovers and outrebounded them 42-26 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Trento helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was power forward Marco Maganza (204-91) who scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. The former international point guard Marco Carra (185-80) chipped in 16 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Four Trieste players scored in double figures. Naturalized Argentinian point guard Andres Forray (187-86) produced 11 points and 6 rebounds and the former international forward Walter Santarossa (200-78) added 8 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Trieste keeps a position of league leader, which they share with defeated Trento. Trento will play next round against Firenze trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Trieste will try to continue on its current victory against first ranked Omegna on the road.
Top scorers:
Trento: M.Negri 15, M.Spanghero 12+1reb, A.Forray 11+6reb+1ast, W.Santarossa 8+4reb+3ast, M.Pazzi 7+4reb, D.Pascolo 4+5reb+1ast
Trieste: M.Maganza 16+8reb+1ast, M.Carra 16+3reb+6ast, A.Moruzzi 13+5reb+1ast, L.Zaccariello 12+7reb+1ast, M.Ruzzier 9+2reb, I.Ferraro 9+8reb+2ast
gschID: 135900


Firenze - Santarcangelo 88-70

There was a small surprise when sixth ranked Firenze (8-20) won against at home 4th placed Santarcangelo (10-18) 88-70 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-70. Firenze made 17-of-20 free shots (85.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Santarcangelo turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. The best player for the winners was the former international center Federico Bellina (205-79, agency: Players Group) who scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Andrea Giampaoli (185-90) chipped in 19 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Four Firenze players scored in double figures. Firenze's coach Riccardo Paolini used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Luca Bedetti (193-89) produced 16 points and 5 steals and guard Matteo Palermo (190-91) added 11 points respectively for the guests. Firenze moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Comsum.it SI. Santarcangelo at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fourth position with 18 games lost. Firenze will face league's second-placed Trento on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Santarcangelo will play against Pavia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Santarcangelo: L.Bedetti 16+4reb+1ast, M.Bonaiuti 11+1reb+1ast, M.Palermo 11+4reb+2ast, E.Rivali 9+1reb, A.Ancellotti 6, L.Pesaresi 5
Firenze: A.Amici 21+1reb, A.Giampaoli 19+1reb+5ast, F.Bellina 18+7reb+2ast, D.Lamma 10+2reb+3ast, A.Capitanelli 9+5reb, M.Sanna 5+1reb+2ast
gschID: 135901


Treviglio - Perugia 84-76

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Treviglio. Third ranked Treviglio faced 3rd placed Perugia. Host Treviglio (17-11) defeated guests from Perugia (12-15) 84-76. Perugia trailed by 14 points at halftime and as many as 16 after three quarters before a 25-17 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 76-84 at the end of the game. Treviglio forced 19 Perugia turnovers. The best player for the winners was guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) who scored 20 points and 4 assists. Naturalized Argentinian swingman Augustin Fabi (199-91) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. Power forward Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-91) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and Davide Poltroneri (195-85) added 14 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the guests. Perugia's coach Andrea Fabrizi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Treviglio moved-up to second place, which they share with Orlandina and Casalpusterlengo. Loser Perugia keeps the third position with 15 games lost. Treviglio will face Castelletto (#6) at home in the next round. Perugia will play against Casalpusterlengo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Perugia: F.Baldi Rossi 20+10reb, D.Poltroneri 14+8reb+1ast, T.De Min 10+6reb+2ast, R.Truccolo 9+2reb+1ast, M.Caroldi 9+4reb+4ast, S.Bonamente 5
Treviglio: T.Marino 20+4reb+4ast, A.Fabi 13+3reb+4ast, R.Marulli 12+2reb+1ast, J.Borra 10+4reb+1ast, M.Planezio 8+7reb+2ast, N.Cazzolato 8+5reb
gschID: 135902


Pavia - Casalpusterlengo 54-69

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked Pavia's (14-15) home loss to fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo (17-11) 54-69 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Casalpusterlengo. Pavia was better in third quarter 14-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Casalpusterlengo had a 32-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was naturalized Cameroonian center Paul Biligha (200-90, agency: Players Group) who scored 6 points and 14 rebounds. Forward Giampaolo Ricci (200-91) chipped in 9 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Luca Furlanetto (197-81) produced 12 points and 7 rebounds and swingman Federico Maiocco (200-83) added 8 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Casalpusterlengo have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Treviglio and Orlandina. Loser Pavia keeps the fifth position with 15 games lost. Casalpusterlengo will face Perugia (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Pavia will play against Santarcangelo in Sant'Arcangelo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pavia: L.Furlanetto 12+7reb, R.Maggio 11, R.Cazzaniga 10+7reb, F.Maiocco 8+9reb+1ast, S.Borgna 6+4reb+3ast, D.Bozzetto 4+5reb
Casalpusterlengo: F.Loschi 13+3reb, R.Casagrande 12+3reb, R.Prandin 11+5reb+2ast, M.Venuto 9+4reb+3ast, G.Ricci 9+9reb+1ast, M.Contento 7+3reb+2ast
gschID: 135903




SerieA Round 24: Last-ranked Novipiu CM beats Air Avellino - by Eurobasket News
Bottom-ranked Novipiu CM managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the four-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time newly promoted Novipiu CM outleveled eighth-ranked Air Avellino in Casale 96-65. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 31-point difference suggests that Novipiu CM is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Air Avellino's players. The best player for the winners was American swingman Ricky Minard (196-82, college: Morehead St.) who scored 20 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. The other American import guard Mustafa Shakur (193-84, college: Arizona) chipped in 10 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists. Novipiu CM's coach Andrea Valentini felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Slovenian-Croatian forward Jurica Golemac (209-77, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 19 points and 7 rebounds. Newly promoted Novipiu CM maintains seventeenth position with 6-17 record. Air Avellino at the other side keeps the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Cimberio VA. Novipiu CM are looking forward to face higher ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Air Avellino will play against Scavolini Pesaro (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Leader Montepaschi Siena delivered the seventeenth victory. This time they beat 7th ranked Cimberio Varese (12-11) 77-65. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Cimberio Varese. It was a good game for American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). David Andersen contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Finnish guard Teemu Rannikko (188-80) replied with 15 points and 4 steals for Cimberio Varese. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion maintains first position with 17-6 record. Cimberio Varese at the other side dropped to the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Sidigas AV. Montepaschi Siena will play against Vanoli-Braga (#15) in Cremona in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Cimberio Varese will play on the road against Umana Venezia (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Venezia, where higher ranked Umana Venezia (13-8) lost at home to eleventh ranked Angelico Biella (11-12) 75-83 on Thursday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Umana Venezia. Worth to mention a great performance of Jacob Pullen who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 assists. The best for the losing side was Kee Kee Clark with 16 points and 5 assists. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Angelico Biella moved-up to tenth place. Loser Umana Venezia keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Angelico Biella will meet at home Benetton Treviso (#13) in the next round. Umana Venezia will play against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) and hope to secure a win.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Caserta. Local Otto Caserta (10-12) lost to third ranked Bennet Cantu (14-8) 75-58. The winners were led by Doron Perkins who had that evening a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Bennet Cantu have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Banco di Sard. Otto Caserta at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Bennet Cantu's next round opponent will be Lottomatica Roma (#12) at home and are hoping to win another game. Otto Caserta will play against Armani Milano.

Rest of the games of round 24 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Fabi Shoes was defeated by CS Bologna in a road game 77-72. Vanoli CR beat Banca Tercas at home 84-79. Banco di Sard. won against Acea Roma on the opponent's court 72-68. Benetton TV unfortunately lost to Scavolini PS in a home game 66-77.


CS Bologna - Fabi Shoes 77-72

There was no surprise when 14th ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (8-13) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked CS Bologna (14-9) 77-72. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 40-33 second half run of CS Bologna. They made 22-of-27 charity shots (81.5 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Fabi Shoes Montegranaro helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The winners were led by American guard Chris Douglas-Roberts (201-87, college: Memphis) who scored that evening 22 points and 8 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and international guard Giuseppe Poeta (190-85) supported him with 13 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Even 15 points and 9 rebounds by Bulgarian power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) did not help to save the game for Fabi Shoes Montegranaro. Serbian guard Ivan Zoroski (195-79) added 18 points (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. CS Bologna moved-up to fourth place. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro at the other side keeps the fourteenth position with 13 games lost. CS Bologna will have a break next round. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will play at home against Umana Venezia (#5).
Top scorers:
Fabi Shoes: I.Zoroski 18+3reb, J.McNeal 17+1reb, D.Ivanov 15+9reb+1ast, S.May 10+7reb, F.Di Bella 6+4reb+1ast, S.Nicevic 4
CS Bologna: C.Douglas-Roberts 22+8reb, P.Koponen 14+4reb+2ast, K.Lang 13+5reb, G.Poeta 13+2reb+6ast, A.Gigli 6+7reb, D.Gailius 4+2reb
gschID: 150819


Umana Venezia - Angelico BI 75-83

We should mention about the upset which took place in Venezia, where higher ranked Umana Venezia (13-8) lost at home to eleventh ranked Angelico Biella (11-12) 75-83 on Thursday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Umana Venezia. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 43-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great shooting night for Angelico Biella especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 61.5 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Jacob Pullen (182-89, college: Kansas St.) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 assists and Spanish center Albert Miralles (208-82, agency: Interperformances) who added 15 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American-Bulgarian point guard Kee Kee Clark (180-84, college: St.Peter's) with 16 points and 5 assists and American forward Tamar Slay (204-80, college: Marshall) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Angelico Biella moved-up to tenth place. Loser Umana Venezia keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Angelico Biella will meet at home Benetton Treviso (#13) in the next round. Umana Venezia will play against Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Umana Venezia: T.Slay 18+5reb+1ast, K.Kee Clark 16+4reb+5ast, T.Bowers 14+4reb+5ast, A.Young 13+2reb+5ast, S.Bryan 6+5reb, G.Rosselli 4+4reb
Angelico BI: J.Pullen 25+1reb+7ast, A.Miralles 15+7reb+3ast, T.Dragicevic 15+10reb, A.Coleman 11+5reb+2ast, G.Jurak 7+2reb+1ast, M.Soragna 6+4reb+2ast
gschID: 150820


Vanoli CR - Banca Tercas 84-79

Everything could happen in Cremona at the game between two tied teams. Both fifteenth ranked Vanoli-Braga and 16th ranked Banca Tercas had identical 7-15 record. This time Vanoli-Braga used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Teramo 84-79. The hosts were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 24-17 Banca Tercas' run in the last quarter cut the lead to 84-79 at the end of the game. The winners were led by Slovenian forward Marko Milic (201-77) who scored that evening 21 points and 9 rebounds and Belgian point guard Beye Tabu-Eboma (190-85) supported him with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Even 20 points and 6 rebounds by the former international point guard Robert Fultz (189-82, agency: Interperformances) did not help to save the game for Banca Tercas. Naturalized Argentinian swingman Bruno Cerella (194-86, agency: Players Group) added 18 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Vanoli-Braga maintains fifteenth position with 8-15 record. Banca Tercas lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth place with 16 games lost. Vanoli-Braga's next round opponent will be league's leader Montepaschi Siena on the road and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Banca Tercas will play against Banco di Sard. (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Banca Tercas: R.Fultz 20+6reb+2ast, B.Cerella 18+7reb+1ast, V.Amoroso 14+6reb+2ast, A.Polonara 12+5reb, D.Brown 8+2reb+1ast, B.Brown 5+1reb+1ast
Vanoli CR: M.Milic 21+9reb, L.D'Ercole 14+2reb+1ast, D.Cinciarini 13+2ast, B.Tabu-Eboma 11+5reb+4ast, D.Lighty 9+5reb+3ast, J.Rich 8+4reb
gschID: 150821


Otto Caserta - Bennet Cantu 58-75

The game with biggest result difference took place in Caserta. Local Otto Caserta (10-12) lost to third ranked Bennet Cantu (14-8) 75-58. It looked good early as Otto Caserta took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Bennet Cantu had a 17-6 second period charge getting the lead and Otto Caserta was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 58-75. Bennet Cantu dominated on the defensive end, holding Otto Caserta to just 6 points in second quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Otto Caserta's 26. The winners were led by American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds and Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) supported him with 18 points. Even 14 points and 5 rebounds by American forward Andre Smith (203-85, college: N.Dakota St.) did not help to save the game for Otto Caserta. His fellow American import point guard Andre Collins (183-82, college: Loyola, MD) added 10 points and 5 rebounds. Bennet Cantu have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Banco di Sard. Otto Caserta at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Bennet Cantu's next round opponent will be Lottomatica Roma (#12) at home and are hoping to win another game. Otto Caserta will play against Armani Milano.
Top scorers:
Otto Caserta: A.Smith 14+5reb+2ast, A.Collins 10+5reb+1ast, J.Kudlacek 7+2reb, G.Maresca 7+1reb, C.Bell 6+4reb+1ast, A.Stipanovic 6+7reb+1ast
Bennet Cantu: D.Perkins 20+11reb+3ast, M.Markoishvili 18+3reb+2ast, V.Micov 10+5reb+3ast, M.Leunen 9+9reb, G.Brunner 6+5reb+1ast, N.Mazzarino 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 150815


Novipiu CM - Sidigas AV 96-65

Bottom-ranked Novipiu CM managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the four-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time newly promoted Novipiu CM outleveled eighth-ranked Air Avellino in Casale 96-65. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 31-point difference suggests that Novipiu CM is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Air Avellino's players. The best player for the winners was American swingman Ricky Minard (196-82, college: Morehead St.) who scored 20 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. The other American import guard Mustafa Shakur (193-84, college: Arizona) chipped in a double-double by scoring 10 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists. Four Novipiu CM players scored in double figures. Novipiu CM's coach Andrea Valentini felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Slovenian-Croatian forward Jurica Golemac (209-77, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 19 points and 7 rebounds and American-FYR Macedonian point guard Marques Green (167-82, college: St.Bonaventure) added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. Newly promoted Novipiu CM maintains seventeenth position with 6-17 record. Air Avellino at the other side keeps the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Cimberio VA. Novipiu CM are looking forward to face higher ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#14) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Air Avellino will play against Scavolini Pesaro (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sidigas AV: J.Golemac 19+7reb+3ast, M.Green 13+5reb+5ast, R.Slay 11+1reb, L.Johnson 8+12reb+1ast, V.Spinelli 7+1reb+3ast, A.Infanti 5+1ast
Novipiu CM: R.Minard 20+5reb+5ast, S.Gentile 15+1reb+2ast, O.Stevic 12+9reb+2ast, M.Malaventura 10+1ast, M.Shakur 10+5reb+11ast, G.Temple 10+1reb
gschID: 150816


Acea Roma - Banco di Sard. 68-72

Very expected game when 11th ranked Lottomatica Roma (10-13) was defeated at home by fourth ranked Banco di Sard. (14-8) 72-68. Lottomatica Roma was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. The winners were led by American-Georgian swingman Quinton Hosley (201-84, college: Fresno St.) who scored that evening 18 points and 9 rebounds and American point guard Travis Diener (184-82, college: Marquette) supported him with 20 points and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds by American forward Jarvis Varnado (206-88, college: Mississippi St.) did not help to save the game for Lottomatica Roma. International swingman Luigi Datome (202-87) added 12 points and 5 rebounds. Four Lottomatica Roma players scored in double figures. Banco di Sard. have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Bennet Cantu. Lottomatica Roma at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with 13 games lost. Banco di Sard.'s next round opponent will be Banca Tercas (#16) in Teramo which should be an easy win for them. Lottomatica Roma will play on the road against the league's second-placed Bennet Cantu (#2).
Top scorers:
Acea Roma: J.Varnado 14+10reb, N.Djedovic 12+3reb, L.Datome 12+5reb+1ast, N.Gordic 10+2ast, C.Tucker 8+2reb+3ast, U.Slokar 8+4reb
Banco di Sard.: T.Diener 20+3reb+4ast, Q.Hosley 18+9reb+1ast, D.Diener 15+5reb+2ast, T.Easley 9+5reb+1ast, B.Sacchetti 5+3reb, V.Plisnic 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 150817


Benetton TV - Scavolini PS 66-77

Rather predictable result when ninth ranked Scavolini Pesaro (12-9) beat on the road 13th ranked Benetton Treviso (9-13) 77-66. The game was mostly controlled by Scavolini Pesaro. Benetton Treviso was better in fourth quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Scavolini Pesaro made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Benetton Treviso helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The winners were led by American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) who scored that evening 21 points and 8 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and Lithuanian power forward Tautvydas Lydeka (208-83) supported him with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Even a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds by American forward Marcus Goree (201-77, college: W.Virginia) did not help to save the game for Benetton Treviso. Naturalized American forward Jeffrey Viggiano (197-84, college: Massachusetts) added 12 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Benetton Treviso's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Scavolini Pesaro moved-up to seventh place. Benetton Treviso at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 13 games lost. Scavolini Pesaro's next round opponent will be Air Avellino (#9) on the road. Benetton Treviso will play against Angelico Biella (#10).
Top scorers:
Benetton TV: B.Ortner 14+6reb, M.Goree 13+10reb+1ast, J.Viggiano 12+7reb+2ast, S.Becirovic 11+1reb+2ast, G.Mekel 6+3reb+2ast, J.Thomas 4+1reb+2ast
Scavolini PS: J.White 21+8reb+1ast, T.Lydeka 14+7reb+2ast, D.Cavaliero 13+5ast, J.Jones 11+11reb+1ast, D.Hackett 9+2reb+2ast, R.Hickman 5+2reb+2ast
gschID: 150818


Cimberio VA - Montepaschi 65-77

Leader Montepaschi Siena delivered the seventeenth victory. This time they beat 7th ranked Cimberio Varese (12-11) 77-65. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Cimberio Varese. The game was mostly controlled by Montepaschi Siena. Cimberio Varese was better in second period 29-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Montepaschi Siena dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Cimberio Varese's 20 and made 19-of-23 charity shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Montepaschi Siena forced 20 Cimberio Varese turnovers. Cimberio Varese was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Australian center David Andersen (212-80) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Finnish guard Teemu Rannikko (188-80) replied with 15 points and 4 steals and swingman Gabriele Ganeto (200-87) added 9 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Cimberio Varese. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion maintains first position with 17-6 record. Cimberio Varese at the other side dropped to the eighth place with 11 games lost. They share the position with Sidigas AV. Montepaschi Siena will play against Vanoli-Braga (#15) in Cremona in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Cimberio Varese will play on the road against Umana Venezia (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Cimberio VA: T.Rannikko 15+3reb+2ast, R.Stipcevic 10+3reb+2ast, Y.Diawara 9+2reb, G.Ganeto 9+5reb+1ast, D.Fajardo 6+7reb+1ast, T.Weeden 5
Montepaschi: B.McCalebb 18+5reb+2ast, D.Andersen 17+5reb, I.Rakocevic 13+1reb, P.Aradori 8+2reb, D.Moss 6+3reb+1ast, S.Stonerook 4+8reb+3ast
gschID: 150814




*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


Orthodox inks Zaid Abbas - by Omar Shafaamri
Orthodox Club Management agreed the Terms with Jordan NT Star Abbas Zaid (203-F-83) to represent the Club Team starting from the JPL Final Four Round which is expected to begin in April.

Zaid has finished a great 3rd Season in CBA Chinese League being the Best Ball Rebounder along many EX-NBA Giants. Orthodoxi has to fill another spot in their Elite 7-Man List as they having talks with Abbas fellow in CBA Sam Daghlas who also had the Best Assist Percentage in CBA and for the 2nd Consecutive Season.

Orthodox Club is ranked 3rd by the end of the JPL First Leg.


*****************************************************
  JUCO   


Top 10 (DI)
Top 10 Ranking
 1. South Plains JC
 2. NW Florida St.
 3. Monroe Coll.
 4. S.Idaho JC
 5. Coffeyville CC
 6. ASA CC
 7. Indian Hills CC
 8. E.Oklahoma St. JC
 9. Vincennes Univ.
 10. Santa Fe CC
 11. Boroung-Manh.
 12. Olney Central CC


Top 10 (DII)
Top 10 Ranking
 1. Mott CC
 2. Oakland CC


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


Standings -D1
D1 Standings
 1. BC Astana 18-0 
 2. Barsy Atyrau 14-5 
 3. Kaspiy Aktau 9-10 
 4. BK Almaty 7-9 
 5. Tobol 7-11 
 6. BK Atyrau 0-20 


*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Sigal Prishtina 16-2
 2. Trepca 16-2
 3. Peja 11-7
 4. Bashkimi 10-8
 5. Kolegji Univer. 8-10
 6. Kosova 5-13
 7. Drita 3-15
 8. Futura 3-15


Champions showed their strength against Trepca - by Dren Shporta
Arben Krasniqis boys showed their force in the match against league leaders Trepca. Since theyve got the advantage in the beginning of the game, reigning champions didnt let it go from their hands until the end of the game. Sigal Prishtina won as visitors with a nine points difference in a nervily strong match with, 51:62 the final result.

Ersid Ljuca (209-C-81, agency: 011 Sports) was their main player in the night. He scored 15 points and blocked Bosnian duo of Trepca centers Emir Zimic and Fikret Handjic of changing something in the greens favor. Granit Rugova scored 12 points and captain Edmond Azemi added 16 more to show Trepca first defeat in their home Minatori court in the season.

Drilon Hajrizi for the first time this season was stopped to score over 20 points in a match. He could only help with 15 points while Jaleel Nelson scored same as Hajrizi in a nonproductive match for the greens. Trepca was not precise out of 6.75 line on the match after they attempted more than twenty times to score only once with Besnik Azemi. From now on, Sigal Prishtina and Trepca will continue the season with same record and will hope for each others eventual fault to take clearly the leadership.


Bashkimi registers first victory in the spring - by Dren Shporta
Boys of Naser Oskacek were not in great form but they achieved a victory gainst Drita, 103:89. Rolando Little (206-F-86, college: Idaho St.) was in good form with his 31 points and plenty of attractions in the last period. Samir Shaptahovic assisted him in the numbers with 21 points scored.

Bashkimi started well the game during two first periods. Drita came back in the third part of the match, with cool play of Bexhet Demolli (28 points) and fighting Driton Sylejmani (23 points) to close the difference to six points, which was not enough for blues of Gjilan.

In the last period after some changes made, Rolando Little came in the scene to score some attractive alley hoops and dunks for the little number of spectators present in the match. On the other hand Drita show its great spirit with high motivated youngsters that were never giving up. With this win Bashkimi registered its 10th victory in the season while Drita is classified in the bottom of the table.


Clash of the season, tonight in Mitrovica - by Dren Shporta
Leaders Trepca tonight wait for the reigning champions, Sigal Prishtina, in the clash that will clear some dilemmas in BKT Superliga this season. The greens from Mitrovica are in super form this season and have only one defeat registered, exactly from Sigal Prishtina as visitors.

On the other hand, champions are looking to stop the great series of Trepca, which is unbeaten in the home court during all of the season. Trepca have one point more than Sigal Prishtina, and is hoping to win tonight to create the distance for the next part of the season.

Drilon Hajrizi (208-C), Trepcas captain and score leader, is ready for the match and is proclaiming a victory that will make the greens clear leaders before the play-offs. In Sigal Prishtinas camp, the plan is the same. Captain and Kosovos Player of the Year, Edmond Azemi said that the win is imperative tonight to show that champions are in the game.

It is expected that Minatori court will get extremely noisy and full, while about 3000 spectators should be there. The other matches of the night will be played between Futura vs. Peja and Kolegji Univers vs. Kosova.


*****************************************************
  NAIA   


D1 Top 25 ranking
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Shorter
 2. Oklah.Baptist
 3. Robert Morris
 4. Concordia Irvine
 5. Martin Methodist
 6. So.Poly State
 7. Our Lady Lake
 8. Lindsey Wilson
 9. Rogers St.
 10. Biola, CA
 11. Mountain St.
 12. LSU-Shreveport
 13. John Brown
 14. Georgetown, KY
 15. Columbia, MO
 16. Point Loma
 17. Lee
 18. Montana St.-Northern
 19. Texas Wesleyan
 20. Montana-Western
 21. Xavier, LA
 22. MidAmerica Nazarene
 23. Campbellsville
 24. Tougaloo
 25. S.Nazarene


D2 Top 25 ranking
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Bluefield
 2. Bryan


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.7
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.7 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.1 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.7 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.25.5 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.8 
 6. Rose, Chicago B.22.7 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat22.4 
 8. Williams, New J.22.4 
 9. Ellis, Golde S.22.0 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15
 1. Howard, Orlando M.15.0 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.8 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers12.7 
 4. Varejao, Clevelan.11.5 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.11.4 
 6. Griffin, LA Clipp.11.2 
 7. Gortat, Phoenix10.6 
 8. Humphries, New J.10.5 
 9. Gasol, LA Lakers10.5 
 10. Noah, Chicago B.10.4 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.9 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.10.1 
 3. Calderon, Toron.8.7 
 4. Paul, LA Clippers8.4 
 5. Williams, New J.8.2 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Parker, San A.7.9 
 8. Wall, Washington W.7.8 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.7.8 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.7.3 
Steals Per Game
 Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Conley, Memphis G.2.6 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers2.3 
 3. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 4. Shumpert, New Y.2.0 
 5. Iguodala, Philadel.1.9 
 6. Westbrook, Oklah..1.8 
 7. Lowry, Houston R.1.8 
 8. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 9. Ariza, N.Orleans H.1.8 
 10. James, Miami Heat1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.2 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.6 
 3. Jordan, LA Clippers2.5 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.2.2 
 5. Bynum, LA Lakers2.2 
 6. Gasol, Memphis G.2.1 
 7. Smith, Atlanta H.2.0 
 8. Dalembert, Houst.1.9 
 9. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 10. Hibbert, Indiana1.8 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Philadelph.76 23-17 
 2. Boston C. 20-18 
 3. New York K. 18-21 
 4. Toronto R. 13-26 
 5. New Jersey N. 13-27 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 33-8 
 2. Indiana P. 23-14 
 3. Milwaukee B. 15-24 
 4. Cleveland C. 14-23 
 5. Detroit P. 13-26 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 30-9 
 2. Orlando M. 25-15 
 3. Atlanta H. 23-16 
 4. Washington W. 9-29 
 5. Charlotte B. 5-32 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 31-8 
 2. Denver N. 22-18 
 3. Minnesota T. 21-19 
 4. Utah Jazz 19-19 
 5. Portland TB 19-20 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 23-16 
 2. LA Clippers 22-15 
 3. Phoenix Suns 17-21 
 4. Golde State W. 15-21 
 5. Sacramento K. 13-26 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 26-12 
 2. Memphis G. 23-15 
 3. Dallas M. 23-17 
 4. Houston R. 21-19 
 5. N.Orleans H. 9-30 


Don't look now Ersan Ilyasova best player on the Bucks - by Chris Mathieu
Its hard to believe it, but it is true, for the last few weeks Ersan Ilyasova has been the best player on the Milwaukee Bucks. With the injuries and ineffectiveness piling up again for the Bucks one player has risen to the top of the list of best Bucks players, Ersan Ilyasova. With Andrew Bogut injured (again), Brandon Jennings inconsistent play and Stephan Jacksons attempt to force a trade out of Milwaukee, the Bucks needed badly for someone to step up and that has been Ilyasova.
Ersan took a strange route to get to this point in his career. Starting out in Georgia born Arsan Ilyashov born in 1984 not 1987 (he may want to get this cleaned up before he finishes his US citizenship application). Ersan has taken a long road to best player on a NBA team. He played in Turkey, Spain the NBDL and bounced between the NBA and Europe.
Ersan signed a 3 year 7 million dollar contract three seasons ago, a bargain by NBA standards. He struggled last year with injuries including a concussion. His shooting and play slumped badly last year and the team was a disappointment.
This year has seen similar struggles for the Bucks the difference is Ersan is playing the best basketball of his career including a 29 point 25 rebound game against New Jersey, only the third Buck in history to go for over 25 and 25 in a game.
In his last 11 games going into the Bulls game he averaged 17.1 ppg and 11.7 rbpg and he is shooting 37.3 from three point line for the season.
Ersan almost led the Bucks to an upset against the Bulls last night going for 32 points on 14-18 from the field with 10 rebounds. It took a heroic last second Jordanesque shot from Derrick Rose to finish off the Bucks in dramatic fashion.
Because of his recent play and the lack of decent big man depth in the league Ersan is getting a lot of mentions in trade possibilities as the NBA trade deadline nears. It will be interesting to see if Milwaukee thinks he is more valuable to the team as a member or a trade asset. One thing is for sure, he has positioned himself for a nice payday at the end of the year.


Exciting Wednesday - by Eurobasket News
Sacramento K. - N.Orleans H. 99-98
John Salmons (6'7''-F-79, college: Miami, FL) made the go-ahead layup with 6.8 seconds left, Marcus Thornton scored 25 points, and the Sacramento Kings snapped a four-game losing streak by beating the New Orleans Hornets 99-98 on Wednesday night. The Hornets led by one and inbounded with 8.9 seconds left, but Isaiah Thomas stole Trevor Ariza's pass and quickly spotted Salmons cutting to the basket for a left-handed layup. Jarrett Jack had 25 points and Ariza 20 for the Hornets, who lost their third straight and fifth in six games. Chris Kaman had 18 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Tyreke Evans had 13 points for the Kings, who had dropped 10 of their previous 12 games. Jason Thompson, Salmons and Thomas all had 12 points, and Jimmer Fredette scored 11. The Kings played without second-year center DeMarcus Cousins, their third-leading scorer and top rebounder. The team said he was suffering from food poisoning. The Kings are 2-0 in games Cousins has missed this season, both coming against the Hornets. This was the first of a franchise-record nine straight home games for the Kings. It came one day after the City Council and Mayor Kevin Johnson took care of the financial details of a new arena that will keep the team in Sacramento indefinitely, ending rumors that the team might move to Anaheim or Seattle. The City Council approved the measure Tuesday night to build a new downtown arena that is expected to break ground next spring and be ready for the 2015-16 season. It was yet another evening of playing short-handed for the Hornets, who have been decimated by injuries this season and only dressed nine players against the Kings. Thornton made a basket to pull the Kings to within 98-97. A shot clock violation by New Orleans gave Sacramento the ball back with 19 seconds left and trailing by one point. Thornton missed a jumper, but the Kings got a final chance after the turnover. Ariza missed a jumper as time expired. Trailing by six points early in the fourth quarter, the Kings ran off seven straight points to assume the lead. Fredette's 3-pointer ended the run, giving Sacramento an 85-84 advantage. The Hornets continued to shoot well in the third quarter, when they outscored the Kings 26-20. Jack scored eight points and Ariza had seven in the quarter. Vasquez made the Hornets' first 3-pointer of the game with 21 seconds remaining in the period, putting New Orleans ahead 80-78 heading into the fourth. Thomas scored 12 points and Thornton had 10, helping the Kings take a 58-54 lead into halftime. Jack and Kaman both scored 12 points in the opening half for the Hornets, who shot 57 percent. *Courtesy of www.csnbayarea.com

Milwaukee B. - Chicago B. 104-106
Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) faked like he was going to drive to the basket again, creating just enough of a cushion on defender Brandon Jennings. Then he slid to his left in a split second, drilling a winning shot at the buzzer. The reigning league MVP sure knows how to thrill a stadium filled with Bulls fans - even when he isn't playing at home. Rose's off-balance shot just inside the 3-point line capped a 30-point night that powered the Chicago Bulls to a 106-104 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. 'It was like a kid, all the things that you dream about,' Rose said. 'It felt good. You're on the road, going against a team that's giving you their all and you hit a nice shot like that.' Rose was mobbed by his teammates near halfcourt as a predominantly pro-Bulls crowd roared in approval, bursting out in chants of 'M-V-P!' Joakim Noah added 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Bulls, who have won eight straight. 'It was like a movie,' Noah said. 'Hit the shot, no time left on the clock, you hear the horn, the ball goes through the net. It must be an unbelievable feeling to hit a shot like that.' Jennings noted that Rose wasn't having a particularly good night shooting from outside, so the Bucks were expecting him to drive. 'I tried to make him take as difficult a shot as he could,' Jennings said. 'I was playing him to go to the basket, of course. He hit a step-back jump shot with a hand in his face. Hey, man, you go ahead and take that one.' Bucks coach Scott Skiles said Rose made an incredibly tough shot look easy. 'What a luxury to have, you don't even need to run a play,' Skiles said. 'You can just bring it in, throw it to a guy and he can get whatever shot he wants.' Ersan Ilyasova had a career-high 32 points and Drew Gooden added a season-high 27 for the Bucks, who were coming off a home win over Philadelphia on Monday. The Bulls held Jennings to 11 points on 4 for 18 shooting. Jennings had scored 27-plus points in his previous three games coming into Wednesday. With the Bulls often double-teaming Jennings on defense, especially early, Gooden was left open for several outside shots - and he cashed in, scoring 16 first-half points to keep the Bucks in the game. 'I mean, it was a little difficult,' Jennings said. 'But like I said, Drew was hitting shots, Ersan was playing big for us.' Once again, the Bradley Center was taken over by Bulls fans - although Chicago's home-away-from-home-court advantage wasn't quite as pronounced as it was in the Bulls' Feb. 4 victory at Milwaukee, a Saturday night game that drew a huge crowd comprising mostly Bulls fans. Still, the Bucks received a jarring greeting when they took the floor before Wednesday's game - mostly boos - and the crowd was decidedly pro-Bulls most of the game. When Milwaukee's Mike Dunleavy Jr. missed badly in the second quarter, he was subjected to 'Airball!' chants. It left the Bucks in the odd position of having to talk about tuning out the crowd at home. 'It hurts a lot that we lost this one, just the fact that we played so hard for 48 minutes,' Jennings said. 'Guys were down there battling. We didn't let the crowd get to us at all.' The crowd apparently did get his attention before the game. 'I told the guys before the game, we're just going to tune that out and play basketball,' Jennings said. The Bulls have won all four meetings with the Bucks this season. With the Bulls up by two, Rose lost the ball out of bounds and officials initially ruled it went off a Bucks player. After a replay review, the call was reversed and the ball went to the Bucks with 55.2 seconds left. Milwaukee's Beno Udrih then drove for a layup, tying the game with 42.9 seconds left. Rose drove on Jennings, then tried to hit a turnaround jumper - and drew a foul on Jennings and hit both shots for a 104-102 lead with 32.5 left. Ilyasova scored inside, tying the game again with 24 seconds left and setting the stage for Rose's last-second shot. 'It was a great play by him,' Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. 'He took the clock down, he didn't leave any time because it was one of those games where whoever had the ball, you thought they were going to score next.' *Courtesy of www.rrstar.com

San Antonio S. - New York K. 118-105
Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored 32 points and the San Antonio Spurs dealt the sliding New York Knicks a third consecutive loss, 118-105 on Wednesday night, which doesn't figure to ease the mounting frustrations of Carmelo Anthony and teammates. Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili added 17 points apiece in Ginobili's second game back after missing two weeks with a strained stomach muscle. Like the Knicks, the Spurs are finally at full strength again, but are doing a far better job of blending rotations and fitting all their pieces together. Anthony led New York with 27 points. The Knicks have lost six of nine. They bear little resemblance to their Jeremy Lin-inspired resurgence before the All-Star break, and booting Landry Fields from the starting lineup before the game didn't help much. Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said relegating Fields to the bench wasn't a demotion but simply a stab at trying to find combinations that work. The change came a night after the Knicks trailed by as many as 19 at Dallas, where Anthony afterward admitted having trouble finding his new role in the offense. Lin came out of nowhere last month and delivered the Knicks the playmaking point guard they craved. But New York's transition has been anything but seamless since Anthony returned Feb. 20 after missing seven games, mostly because of a groin injury. The Knicks are 2-5 with Anthony back in the lineup. D'Antoni said before the game that Anthony needs to be New York's leading scorer and said he understood the frustration of his star. 'You have to work through. But there's no reason why it can't co-exist,' D'Antoni said. 'There's no reason why everybody shouldn't do well. We just got to find the right balance of everybody getting into their spots.' Anthony had as many field goals in the first 6 minutes Wednesday night - two 3-pointers - than he did in a lethargic, unfocused performance the night before in Dallas. He was 12 of 24 from the floor and finished with four times as many points as he did against the Mavericks. Lin shot 7 of 15 and had four assists. Amare Stoudemire had 18 points and 11 rebounds. Gary Neal scored 12 points and found his way back into the starting lineup as the Spurs ease Ginobili back into playing shape. Ginobil played 25 minutes, shooting 7 of 10 from the floor and adding six assists. DeJuan Blair, Kawhi Leonard and Tiago Splitter added 10 points apiece for the Spurs. It was a convincing win for San Antonio, which had lost two of its last three at home after returning from the winningest nine-game road trip in NBA history, when the Spurs went 8-1 and quietly climbed to second in the West. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich didn't stick around to see the end, getting ejected at the end of the third quarter following a heated exchange with officials over foul calls. A scary moment came in the second quarter when Spurs point guard T.J. Ford lay on the floor for more than three minutes. The Spurs said the veteran received a stinger after getting elbowed in his back, and Ford appeared wobbly while being helped off the court and back into the tunnel. He didn't return to the game. Ford missed the entire 2004-05 season because of a spinal cord injury, and the Spurs took the unusual step of noting that Ford was 'neurologically intact' on a midgame injury report. It was not immediately clear how much time the Spurs might be without their backup point guard, who has played in just 14 games all season because of other injuries. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Toronto R. - Houston R. 116-98
Demar DeRozan (6'7''-F/G-89, college: USC) scored 23 points as the Toronto Raptors used a rare offensive outburst to beat the Houston Rockets 116-98 on Wednesday night. Linas Kleiza added 19 points while Jose Calderon had 17 points and 12 assists for the Raptors, who wrapped up a 2-2 homestand with one of their strongest games of the season. Toronto set season highs in points and shooting percentage (59.2) while overcoming a shaky third quarter by dominating the weary Rockets over the final 12 minutes. Leandro Barbosa added 15 points and Amir Johnson had 14 for the Raptors. Chandler Parsons scored 17 points to lead the Rockets, who have dropped five straight in Toronto, and five in a row overall. *Courtesy of www.click2houston.com

Philadelph.76 - Boston C. 103-71
Evan Turner (6'7''-G/F-88, college: Ohio St.) made certain his name will be inked into the starting lineup. Turner scored a career-best 26 points, helping the Philadelphia 76ers rout the Boston Celtics 103-71 Wednesday night to maintain their lead in the Atlantic Division. Before tip-off, Turner denied a radio report that a mystery problem was causing his inconsistent play. Then Turner went out and proved he's just fine. He shot 11 of 19 and grabbed nine rebounds. ''I'm just trying to build off this and enjoy the moment,'' Turner said. ''I'm not saying 'I told you so.''' So far, Turner hasn't played like a guy worthy of the No. 2 overall pick in the 2010 draft. He started just 14 games last year and only moved into the lineup two nights ago. But Sixers coach Doug Collins said Turner will be out there for the long haul. He was reluctant to make a change after Philadelphia's strong finish last year and hot start this season. After the Sixers lost seven of nine, Collins finally inserted Turner and sent Jodie Meeks to the bench. ''Evan is a great leader,'' Collins said. ''He worked his tail off to be a better basketball player in the offseason and he was when he came back. When he didn't start, I know a part of him said 'I should be.' But he didn't say anything. Evan has extreme confidence. He thinks he's the best player on this team.'' Six Sixers scored in double figures, including Elton Brand (18), Lou Williams (15) and Nik Vucevic (14). Vucevic's 12 rebounds were a high for the rookie. Andre Iguodala had 10 points, eight assists and seven boards. The Sixers, a surprise contender a month ago, had lost eight of 10 to drop their lead in the division to one game over Boston, which had won five in a row. But the Celtics were no match for Philadelphia in this one. Paul Pierce had 16 points and Brandon Bass added 12. Rajon Rondo had just 5 and Ray Allen 2. ''We just didn't have it,'' Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. ''We missed shot after shot and nothing was working. But give them credit. They were organized and they played really well. They're a good team and we just didn't fight through it.'' Coming off an overtime win at home over Houston on Tuesday night, the Celtics clearly were sluggish in their 11th back-to-back game of the season. The Sixers, helped by Turner's 10 points, led 33-17 after one quarter. Turner's best play, though, was an alley-oop pass to Iguodala, who thrilled the crowd with a thunderous dunk. Collins said Turner is a true point guard and called him the team's best rebounder. Jrue Holiday has been the starting point guard, but Collins wants to see Turner and Holiday in the backcourt together and share the ball along with Iguodala. ''Evan needs the ball. He's a totally different player when he has the ball,'' Collins said. ''I have to find the right fit. I have to see how those guys play together over an extended period. They are our future.'' Turner hit a jumper to cap a 14-0 run in the second quarter that gave the Sixers their biggest lead to that point, 49-21. Williams started it off with a 3-pointer and Holiday swished a 3 during the stretch. Turner slammed one in off a pass from Iguodala in the third. Minutes later, he made a driving layup, got fouled, high-fived a fan and then sank a free throw to complete a 3-point play. He nailed a 3 to reach 26 points, surpassing his previous high of 23 during his rookie year. Turner entered the game averaging 7.7 points per game. He shot just 1 for 12 in a 97-93 loss at Milwaukee on Monday. ''I didn't worry about anything,'' Turner said, adding that it helped when Collins told him he's going to keep starting him. ''You have to understand that as a pro you're going to have good nights and bad nights.'' The Sixers haven't had much success against the better teams in the league. A convincing win over Boston should boost their confidence heading into the next five-game stretch. After playing Utah and New York, they'll face Indiana, Miami and Chicago. ''We had some tired legs and Philly took advantage,'' Pierce said. ''I feel like we can always win a game. I do. I always feel like we have enough to come back. But we just didn't have it tonight.'' *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Minnesota T. - Portland TB 106-94
There is a new vibe buzzing through Target Center these days, something wholly unfamiliar to a Minnesota Timberwolves team that lost 132 games the previous two seasons and hasn't made the playoffs since 2004. 'I don't think anybody can really say that we're the laughing stock of the NBA anymore,' Wes Johnson said. 'If you come in here thinking that, you're going to catch an 'L' real quick.' The Portland Trail Blazers were just the latest team to discover that. Johnson scored 19 points to back Kevin Love's 29 points and 16 rebounds in Minnesota's 106-94 victory over the Blazers on Wednesday night. Johnson went 3 of 4 on 3-pointers and Luke Ridnour (6'2''-PG-81, college: Oregon) added 22 points for the Timberwolves (21-19), who moved into the eighth spot in the Western Conference playoff race. They own the tiebreaker over Houston, which lost earlier Wednesday. 'If you would've said this to me last year, that we were going to be in the eighth spot this year, I would have probably told you you were lying,' Johnson said. While the Timberwolves are surging with five straight home wins and eight victories in their last 11 games, the Blazers look lost out there. 'We're searching. I just don't know what we're searching for,' said All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge, who had 22 points and seven rebounds. 'I don't know what to say.' Gerald Wallace had 13 points, nine assists and nine rebounds for the Blazers, who have lost four of their last five games. Does it feel like the ship is sinking? 'Yeah. And it can sink real fast on this road trip,' said Aldridge, whose Blazers head to Boston, Washington, Indiana, New York, Chicago and Oklahoma City over the next 11 days. 'This was a must-win game for us. We go and we've got to play some tough teams.' Aldridge went 2 for 3 from the free-throw line -- his first foul shots in four games -- but was badly outplayed by Love for the second straight game. He was held to just five points in the second half and two in the fourth quarter. Love was 3 of 5 behind the arc and played the entire second half to help the Wolves outlast the Blazers for their fifth win in seven games. Raymond Felton had 23 points and nine assists for the Blazers, who cut the deficit to six points with 4:15 to play. But Ridnour hit a 3 and a pair of free throws, and former Blazer Martell Webster knocked down another from behind the arc for a 102-88 lead that put away the game. Jamal Crawford, who has been linked to Minnesota in trade rumors recently, had just six points on 3-for-13 shooting. The Blazers made just 3 of 23 from 3-point range. 'I think at the end of the day, we're only humans. So, no matter what somebody says, I'm sure it's in the back of their heads a little bit,' Crawford said of the trade talk. 'But we have to be professional and go out and do the best job we can.' Love scored 15 points in the first quarter, hitting all three of his 3-pointers to get the Wolves going. But it was Johnson's out-of-nowhere complementary play that made all the difference. The second-year wing has been a disappointment since he was taken with the fourth overall pick before last season. He struggled to find his shooting touch and gave the Wolves almost nothing offensively from a position geared toward big production in Rick Adelman's system. He scored 10 points in the first quarter, hitting a rare jumper off the dribble, two 3-pointers and showing the first real signs of his standout days at Syracuse. He threw down two put-back dunks and fed Love for a pretty three-point play in the second quarter. Aldridge went to the bench early in the first quarter after picking up two quick fouls, but got rolling in the second quarter with 13 points. He did most of his damage while Love rested on the bench, feasting on Darko Milicic, who got his second straight start for the injured Nikola Pekovic. 'You never want to start a road trip like this, with a loss,' Crawford said. 'You want momentum and start off with a win. Mood's pretty down for sure.' It was the fifth straight home win for the Timberwolves, who need to capitalize on this homestand. They beat the Clippers on Monday night and have games against the Lakers on Friday night and the Hornets on Saturday before embarking on a seven-game road trip that could define their season. 'We're talking about the fact that we're relevant right now,' coach Rick Adelman said. 'We've made a run here that got us to that position. There's no reason we're different than anybody else that are in those spots. We can win games and we can stay right there.' *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Oklah.City T. - Phoenix Suns 115-104
Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) scored 31 points, James Harden added a career-high 30 off the bench and the Oklahoma City Thunder roared back for a 115-104 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night for their 14th straight home win. Kevin Durant also chipped in 30 points and Serge Ibaka contributed 18 points and a career-high 20 rebounds as the Thunder overcame a 16-point deficit late in the third quarter. Oklahoma City limited the Suns to two baskets over an 11-minute stretch, outscoring Phoenix 33-9 to eliminate a big deficit and take control. Marcin Gortat had a career-best 28 points and 11 rebounds to lead Phoenix, which built the largest lead for an opponent this season inside Chesapeake Energy Arena only to watch it disintegrate in an instant. Westbrook had a steal for a right-handed, runout slam during a 16-2 burst that got the Thunder back in the game late in the third quarter. His 3-pointer from the top of the key got Oklahoma City within 86-84 in the final minute of the period. Sticking with reserve guard Royal Ivey instead of playing with a center, the Thunder took the lead for good on Durant's layup in the first 3 minutes of the fourth quarter and never looked back. Their home winning streak matches the fifth-longest in franchise history for a single season. When the club played in Seattle, the SuperSonics had three win streaks of 17 games and a 16-game run that was part of a record 29-game home win streak spanning two seasons. Jared Dudley had 17 points and a season-best 11 rebounds for Phoenix, which had six players in double figures while bidding for its first four-game win streak of the season. Channing Frye scored 13, and Steve Nash had 12 points and 13 first-half assists. After heading into the All-Star break with coach Alvin Gentry delivering a podium-pounding speech questioning whether his team was a 'tease' or a real playoff contender, the Suns had rallied from double-digit deficits in each of their first three games to start March. This time, the tables were turned. After Westbrook's jumper to open the game, Nash engineered a string of nine straight Phoenix points as the Suns established themselves early. Nash had seven assists by the time Phoenix finished another spurt, this one of 10 straight points, to go up 24-11 after Gortat's free throw with 3:56 left in the first quarter. Durant sat down after picking up two fouls in 11 seconds, and the Suns went on to lead by as much as 15 in the opening period. It was Oklahoma City's largest home deficit of the season, until the Suns went up by even more in the second half. Harden crouched over with three fingers extended on his right hand for an extended celebration after hitting back-to-back 3-pointers, then taunted Shannon Brown by saying 'Boom' right in his face after dunking over him on a fast break. Brown responded right back with his own right-handed slam to end the first quarter with Phoenix up 34-25, hanging on the rim for an extra moment when he was done. Harden converted a three-point play off a finger roll against Brown early in the second quarter, and Brown came right back with two more right-handed slams before the tensions simmered down between the two reserves. The Thunder used 22 fast-break points to get back within 64-58 at halftime, then let Phoenix deliver the first blow again in the second half. Nash drove for a pair of layups during a 14-4 run, and Dudley restored the lead to 78-64 when he missed two free throws but then grabbed the rebound on the second for a putback. Dudley's basket on an Ibaka goaltend with 4:13 remaining in the third stretched the lead to 84-68 before the Thunder's big comeback. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Denver N. - Cleveland C. 99-100
Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) reminded Ty Lawson and the Nuggets what it feels like to be on the other end of a big shot. Irving made a driving layup with four seconds left to cap a seesaw battle in the final minutes, and the Cleveland Cavaliers beat Denver 100-99 on Wednesday night. Irving scored 10 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, all in the last 2:36 of the game, and Antawn Jamison had 33 to help the Cavaliers snap a six-game losing streak. 'Kyrie down the stretch, it speaks for itself,' Jamison said. 'He single-handedly won the game for us.' It wasn't easy. Neither team could pull away in the fourth quarter. Denver scored the first six points to go ahead 78-76 and the lead changed hands nine times in the final 2:36, with the point guards staging a personal duel down the stretch. Lawson, who made the decisive baskets in wins over San Antonio and Sacramento in the last week, had five of his 18 points in the finishing flurry to give Denver a 95-94 lead. Irving had two three-point plays and a driving layup to put Cleveland up 98-97 with 24 seconds left. He saved his best for the final seconds. After Nene muscled in a layup over rookie Tristan Thompson with 15 seconds left to give Denver a 99-98 lead, Irving took the inbounds pass in the backcourt, raced up the floor into the lane and made the go-ahead basket. 'I tried to deny him the ball. He got a head of steam, got me on his hip and took it all the way,' Arron Afflalo said. 'We would like to first keep him in front of us and if he does get by us have some help in protecting the basket. Neither one was done. You expect on the game-winning layup someone swats on the ball.' Irving said he took Afflalo's defense as a challenge. 'He picked me up fullcourt and I take it as a test when people pick me up fullcourt,' Irving said. 'The lane opened up when I got down there, it was a tough shot, but my teammates willed it in.' After a timeout, Lawson got the ball at the top of the key with Irving guarding him. Despite having five fouls, Irving played aggressive defense and forced Lawson into a tough layup that he missed at the buzzer. 'I got a step on him and I seen him try to time the shot,' Lawson said. 'I tried to step in and get him off balance. I didn't have enough lift to finish it. It hit the rim, but it's one of those shots I need to make.' Despite 22 points from Al Harrington and 16 from Andre Miller, Denver had its four-game win streak snapped. 'Just keep moving forward. There's too many games to worry about one,' Lawson said. The game was tied in the third quarter before Alonzo Gee scored the next seven points to give Cleveland a 72-65 edge. The Cavs led by four heading into the fourth after Daniel Gibson's 3-pointer was ruled after the horn. Gee finished with 19. Jamison was the biggest reason for Cleveland leading 57-55 at the break. The forward scored 14 in the first quarter to keep the Cavaliers close, then had 12 more in the second when they overcame a nine-point deficit. Trailing 41-32, Jamison hit two jumpers and a pair of free throws to get the margin to 45-42 midway through the second. Gee tied it with a layup, Anthony Parker hit a 3 and Jamison scored four more points during a 23-8 run that gave Cleveland a 55-49 lead. 'It wasn't really forced, it came natural and I was able to get quality shots,' Jamison said. Harrington had 12 points off the bench to lead Denver in the first half. *Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports

Golde State W. - Memphis G. 92-110
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) had 26 points, 12 rebounds and five assists to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to their fifth straight victory, 110-92 over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night. Marc Gasol added 17 points and 12 rebounds and Marreese Speights scored 18 points to pace the hot-starting and hard-closing Grizzlies, who sprinted to a 21-4 lead, lost it, then built back a 21-point lead late. Memphis has won nine of its last 10 games and is gaining momentum for the second straight season in the deep Western Conference. Monta Ellis had 16 points and a hobbled Stephen Curry came off the bench to score 15 points for a Warriors team that just returned home from a solid 3-3 road trip only to turn in another perplexing performance. The scoring swings started out extreme in this one. The Grizzlies converted defensive stops into easy baskets, making 10 of their first 11 shots -- almost all layups, dunks or inside the paint -- in a swift and stunning burst of offense. Mike Conley's lob to Gay for a thunderous alley-oop over Dorell Wright for one of his 12 assists, highlighted the 21-4 run in the first 5:26. The home crowd showered the team with boos, and perhaps the frustrated fans awakened the Warriors. Golden State surged back with a 31-14 spurt to even the score at 35 halfway through the second quarter. Curry, with a strained tendon in his surgically repaired, troublesome right foot still causing fits, tossed a high-arcing lob to Ellis later in the period to help the Warriors take a four-point lead. The Grizzlies slowly started to pull away again in the third quarter, going ahead 79-66 on Quincy Pondexter's 3-pointer. They just blew away the Warriors in a frustrating fourth quarter for the home team, building a 21-point lead that started to rattle Golden State even more. Golden State's Nate Robinson and Memphis' O.J. Mayo each were each whistled for a technical foul following a brief scrum. David Lee and Speights were also called for technicals later in the period with the game out of reach. *Courtesy of www.boston.com

Miami Heat - Atlanta H. 89-86
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) had 31 points and 11 rebounds, Dwyane Wade added 18 points and set up Udonis Haslem for an alley-oop dunk with 12 seconds left, and the Miami Heat rallied to beat the Atlanta Hawks 89-86 on Wednesday night. Miami won its 11th straight at home and had to come from 10 points down in the third quarter to extend the streak. Another Heat streak ended - it was Miami's first time since April 6, 2006, without making a 3-pointer, a span that included 455 regular-season games and 60 more in the playoffs. The Heat were 0 for 10 from beyond the arc. Josh Smith scored 23 for the Hawks, who were without Joe Johnson and Tracy McGrady, among others. Jannero Pargo had a look at a potential game-tying 3-pointer at the buzzer, but it hit the rim and bounced away. Jeff Teague scored 16 and Jerry Stackhouse added 10 for the Hawks. The Heat only had two players in double figures, with Chris Bosh managing only nine points on a 3 for 14 shooting night. Pargo's three-point play with 30.5 seconds left got the Hawks within 85-84, but on the next Miami possession, Wade found Haslem at the rim to push the lead back to three. A layup by Vladimir Radmanovic with 4 seconds left got Atlanta within one, but Wade - who also had nine rebounds and six assists - made a pair of free throws with 2.7 seconds left. The Hawks twice led by 10 points in the third quarter, the first coming on a 3-pointer by Kirk Hinrich, the other when Smith made a pair of free throws with 4 minutes left to give Atlanta a 65-55 edge. Then things got heated. And the Heat needed the boost. Miami went on top after a 13-0 run, a spurt that really started to roll when Wade stole the ball from Teague, got a pass back from Mario Chalmers and threw down a dunk that went halfway through the net, hit his chest twice as he held on to the goal - then finally fell through the net. Atlanta turned the ball over four straight times, and not only were the Hawks losing the ball, they were losing their cool. During one scrum, Zaza Pachulia grabbed onto James' head, earning both a personal foul and a technical foul as players from both sides got testy with one another and even Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton - sitting courtside - feigned wanting to run on the court to join in the fun. Chalmers and James combined to make two free throws, and the Heat lead was at 68-65. Wade blocked a 3-point try by Stackhouse with 16 seconds left in the third, Shane Battier swatted away an attempt by Ivan Johnson on the final play of the quarter, and the Hawks scored only six points in a span of 10 minutes, 12 seconds stretching into the fourth quarter. But when Atlanta snapped out of it, with Teague making two layups in a 21-second span, it was suddenly a game again, with the Heat up only 77-75. Another basket by Teague tied it, and Smith's 3-pointer with 3:29 left put the Hawks back on top. Miami scored the next six, Haslem's jumper with just over a minute to go giving the Heat an 83-80 lead. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

New Jersey N. - LA Clippers 101-100
Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) hit a 3-pointer from the right wing with 0.2 seconds left and the New Jersey Nets squandered an 18-point, second-half lead before beating the Los Angeles Clippers 101-100 on Wednesday night. Deron Williams had 21 points and picked up his 10th assist with a pass to Farmar as the Nets won the chippy contest marred by five technical fouls. Chris Paul put the Clippers ahead for the first time since the opening minutes when he made two free throws with 8.9 seconds to play after being fouled 20 feet from the basket. Williams nearly lost the ball on the Nets' first inbounds play and the ball went out of bounds near halfcourt. Williams took the ensuing inbounds pass from Farmar and returned the ball for the winning shot. Farmar finished with 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field. MarShon Brooks added 19, Sheldon Williams had 15 and 10 rebounds and Kris Humphries, who had a game-long skirmish with Blake Griffin, added 12 points and 11 rebounds. Griffin, who had his left ankle rolled by Humphries late in the game, had 28 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Clippers, who have lost six of nine. Paul finished with 22 points and 10 assists, while Newark native Randy Foye added a season-high 24 points. Foye tied the game at 98 with a three-point play with 38.2 seconds to go. What made the shot so exciting was Foye was fouled on the play by Brooks and his attempt from in front of the Nets' bench banked into the basket. The Nets' coaching staff jumped up and screamed at the rookie guard, but they were just as lucky that Foye's toe was touching the 3-point arc or they would have been trailing. Sheldon Williams then fouled Paul as he dribbled around the top of the key, but Farmar made his biggest shot of the season. The Clippers, who had trailed since the closing minutes of the first quarter, used a 17-8 run at the start of the fourth quarter and tied the game at 88l on a layup by Paul with 4:35 to play. The Nets retook the lead 90-88 on two free throws by Humphries on their next possession. The Clippers had chances to tie but Griffin, a 55 percent free throw shooter, twice missed one of two free throws. Griffin, who was called for a double technical foul with Humphries earlier in the contest, was lucky he wasn't seriously hurt when Humphries dived for a loose ball near the Clippers bench and landed on the back of the forward's ankle with all his weight. Humphries and Griffin also exchanged big blocks on dunk attempts in the second half, while Griffin had four monster dunks in the contest. Trailing 78-62 after Humphries made two free throws, the Clippers closed the half with a 9-2 run that backup guard Eric Bledsoe started with a 3-pointer and ended with a layup to cut the lead to nine points. The Clippers kept on coming in the fourth quarter as Mo Williams hit a 3-pointer and Kenyon Martin made a free throw to narrow the Nets' lead to 80-75. A 3-pointer by Paul eventually cut the deficit to four and Los Angeles would eventually tie the game with less than five minutes to play. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Charlotte B. - Utah Jazz 93-99
Al Jefferson (6'10''-F/C-85) had 31 points and nine rebounds as the Utah Jazz defeated the Charlotte Bobcats 99-93 Wednesday night. The Jazz controlled the paint, where they outscored the Bobcats 54-36 and outrebounded them 43-34. Jefferson was 11 of 19 from the field and hit all but one of his 10 foul shots in a dominating inside effort. Paul Millsap scored 16 points while Derrick Favors added 14 points for the Jazz, who won for just the fifth time this season on the road. The victory helped pull the Jazz back to .500 at 19-19. Corey Maggette scored 25 points to lead the Bobcats, who failed in their quest to win back-to-back games for the first time this season. It's the third straight 20-point game for Maggette, who's averaging 19.7 points per game over the last 10 games. Kemba Walker had 19 points and Byron Mullens added 16 for Charlotte. Bobcats coach Paul Silas said before the game he was concerned about his team's ability to defend Utah's inside game and those worries proved valid early on. The Jazz outscored the Bobcats 32-16 in the paint in the first half to open a 51-47 lead at the break. The Jazz didn't venture away from the strategy after the break, opening the third quarter on a 12-1 run as Jefferson went right at Charlotte's rookie center Bismack Biyombo. Jefferson seemed to toy with Biyombo at times, palming the ball with one hand prior to making almost uncontestable moves in the low post. When the Bobcats made adjustments and began rolling help to Biyombo's side, Jefferson simply dished outside to free up Raja Bell, who knocked down a pair of jumpers to give the Jazz a 65-50 advantage. The third quarter has been a problem for most of the season for the Bobcats (5-32). Biyombo, who blocked seven shots and held Dwight Howard to 15 points Tuesday night in Charlotte's 100-84 win over the Orlando Magic, was visibly upset with his inability to defend Jefferson. He slapped his hands together in disgust as he headed down court after giving up a pair of baskets. Biyombo eventually fouled out late in the fourth quarter. It didn't take long before the Jazz extended the lead to 20 points in the second half as Favors contributed a strong game inside as well. The Bobcats trailed 80-64 entering the fourth quarter, but never really challenged for the lead despite getting within six points at the end. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Washington W. - LA Lakers 106-101
Roger Mason (6'5''-G/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Virginia) led a spirited fourth-quarter comeback and Kobe Bryant lost his shooting touch down the stretch as the Washington Wizards rallied from a 21-point deficit Wednesday night (US time) to stun the Los Angeles Lakers 106-101. Mason hit three 3-pointers in the fourth quarter, turning what had been a pro-Lakers scene into an unusually raucous show of home support for a team that is 20 games below .500. The same arena that rocked to 'M-V-P!' for Bryant in the first half was bellowing 'Beat L.A.!' in the final minute. Nick Young scored 19 points for the Wizards, who beat the Lakers for the first time since 2006 - a stretch of nine straight losses. Trevor Booker had 18 points and a career-high 17 rebounds, and Kevin Seraphin scored a career-high 14 points on 7-for-8 shooting. Mason also finished with 14 points, and John Wall had nine assists to help make up for four points on 1-for-8 shooting. Bryant scored 30, but he went 1 for 10 from the field in the fourth quarter. Pau Gasol had 19 points and 15 rebounds, and Andrew Bynum scored 19 points for the Lakers, who dropped both ends of a road back-to-back. *Courtesy of www.sunstar.com.ph



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


Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Darrion PELLUM
  Hampton
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Pellum, Hampton18.1 
 2. Gallo, Coppin St.17.1 
 3. Riley, S.Caroli.17.1 
 4. Stevens, Florida17.0 
 5. Sutton, N.C.Central16.5 
 6. Tate, Delaware St.16.0 
 7. O''Quinn, Norfolk16.0 
 8. Willis, N.C.Cent.14.9 
 9. Andrews, Howard13.3 
 10. Walker, Delaware.13.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kyle O''QUINN
  Norfolk .
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. O''Quinn, Norfolk10.6 
 2. Stevens, Florida10.5 
 3. Williams, Coppin S.8.5 
 4. Thompson, Morgan8.2 
 5. Sanders, S.Caroli.8.0 
 6. Louis, Savannah S.7.9 
 7. Spencer, Md-E S.7.7 
 8. Bruce, Hampton7.5 
 9. Sutton, N.C.Central7.4 
 10. Hines, Md-E Shore7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Jay THREATT
  Delaware.
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Threatt, Delaware.6.1 
 2. Chapman, N.C.Cent.5.1 
 3. Blackmon, Savanna.5.0 
 4. Tuitt, Hampton4.6 
 5. Toombs, S.Caroli.4.4 
 6. Gallo, Coppin St.3.7 
 7. Ellis, Coppin St.3.5 
 8. Frazier, Howard3.5 
 9. Hill, N..3.4 
 10. Pitt, Md-E Shore3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jay THREATT
  Delaware.
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Threatt, Delaware.3.1 
 2. Sutton, N.C.Central2.3 
 3. Tuitt, Hampton1.9 
 4. Jackson, Morgan S.1.7 
 5. Woods, Md-E Shore1.7 
 6. Powell, N.Car.1.6 
 7. Stevens, Florida1.6 
 8. Tolson, Hampton1.6 
 9. Coleman, Beth.-Co.1.4 
 10. Willis, N.C.Cent.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Kendall GRAY
  Delaware St.
  (208-C-92)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Gray, Delaware St.3.2 
 2. O''Quinn, Norfolk2.8 
 3. Agbelese, Hampton2.5 
 4. Oliver, Delaware S.2.4 
 5. Sanders, S.Caroli.2.0 
 6. Smith, Savannah.1.9 
 7. Crowder, Florida1.9 
 8. Chiles, Morgan St.1.6 
 9. Stevens, Florida1.2 
 10. Spencer, Md-E S.1.2 


Top 25 - Men
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Kentucky 30-1
 2. Syracuse 30-1
 3. Kansas 26-5
 4. N.Carolina 27-4
 5. Missouri 27-4
 6. Duke 26-5
 7. Ohio St. 25-6
 8. Michigan St. 24-7
 9. Marquette 25-6
 10. Michigan 23-8
 11. Murray St. 28-1
 12. Baylor 25-6
 13. Georgetown 22-7
 14. Wisconsin 23-8
 15. Indiana 24-7
 16. Wichita St. 26-4
 17. Florida St. 21-9
 18. San Diego St. 24-6
 19. Creighton 25-5
 20. UNLV 25-7
 21. Temple 24-6
 22. Florida 22-9
 23. Notre Dame 21-10
 24. Gonzaga 24-5
 25. Iowa St. 22-9


Grizzlies Claim Big Sky Championship - by Greg
Wayne Tinkle and the Montana Grizzlies will represent the Big Sky Conference in the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship.
The Grizzlies rode hot shooting in the second half to beat Weber State 85-66 at Dahlberg Arena in Missoula, Mont., on Wednesday night in the championsihp game of the 2012 Big Sky Conference Tournament.
Sophomore Kareem Jamar scored 23 points with seven assists, while junior forward Mathias Ward netted 23 with eight rebounds to lead the Grizzlies to their school-record 14th straight victory.
Jamar was named the tournament MVP. He was joined on the All-Tournament team by Grizzly guard Will Cherry, Ward, Weber State guard Damian Lillard, Eastern Washington guard Cliff Colimon and Portland State guard Charles Odum.
Top-seeded Montana (25-6) beat No. 2 seed Weber State for the second time in eight days in Missoula. The Grizzlies have now won eight Big Sky Championships, tied with Weber State for the most in school history. This is UM's second title in three seasons, and the fourth in eight years.
Weber State, 24-6, was led by Lillard, who scored 29 points with 10 rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal. Lillard moved up to seventh on the Big Sky's all-time scoring list with 1,886 points. He has scored 736 points this season, the third most in Big Sky single-season history. Weber State will wait to see if it gets a bid to the NIT. The Wildcats could also play in another postseason tournament.
Weber State came out on fire in the first half, shooting 58.3 percent from the field, and hitting 4-of-9 from 3-point range. Weber State took a 36-31
The Grizzlies played a near flawless second half, shooting 59.4 percent from the field, and hitting 8-of-12 from 3-point range.
The five Grizzly starters accounted for all 85 points. Derek Selvig scored 16 pionts. Art Steward added 10. Cherry had 13 points, six assists and three steals.

Courtesy of Big Sky Conference

Big Sky Conf. Tournament Final: Montana - Weber State 85-66
Big Sky Conf. Tournament Semifinals:
Montana - Eastern Washington 74-66
Weber State - Portland State 69-63

All-Big Sky Conf. 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Damian Lillard
Lillard
Cliff Colimon
Colimon
Will Cherry
Cherry
Kareem Jamar
Jamar
Chehales Tapscott
Tapscott
#e#5

Player of the Year: Damian Lillard (6'2''-G-90) of Weber St.
All-Tournament MVP: Kareem Jamar (6'5''-G/F-92) of Montana
Defensive Player of the Year: Will Cherry (6'1''-G-91) of Montana
Freshman of the Year: Dylan Garrity (6'2''-G-92) of Sacramento St.
Newcomer of the Year: Collin Chiverton (6'6''-F-90) of E.Washington
Coach of the Year: Wayne Tinkle of Montana

1st Team
G: Cliff Colimon (6'0''-89) of E.Washington
G: Will Cherry (6'1''-91) of Montana
G/F: Kareem Jamar (6'5''-92) of Montana
F: Chehales Tapscott (6'5''-90) of Portland St.
G: Charles Odum (6'0''-90) of Portland St.
G: Damian Lillard (6'2''-90) of Weber St.

2nd Team
G: Chase Grabau (6'5'') of Idaho St.
G: Kenny McGowen (6'0'') of Idaho St.
F: Derek Selvig (7'0''-89) of Montana
F: Art Steward (6'4''-88) of Montana
G/F: Scott Bamforth (6'2''-89) of Weber St.

Honorable Mention
Collin Chiverton (6'6''-F-90) of E.Washington
Shawn Reid (6'5''-F-91) of Montana St.
Mike Proctor (6'8''-F/C) of N.Colorado
Dylan Garrity (6'2''-G-92) of Sacramento St.
Kyle Tresnak (6'10''-C-92) of Weber St.

All-Tournament Team
Kareem Jamar (6'5''-G/F-92) of Montana
Will Cherry (6'1''-G-91) of Montana
Mathias Ward (6'7''-F-90) of Montana
Damian Lillard (6'2''-G-90) of Weber St.
Charles Odum (6'0''-G-90) of Portland St.
Cliff Colimon (6'0''-G-89) of E.Washington



LIU Brooklyn Dances Again, Downs Robert Morris in NEC Men's Basketball Championship Rematch - by Greg
NEW YORK (AP) -- C.J. Garner was right around halfcourt when he saw Julian Boyd open near the basket. Perfect time for an alley-oop, the little guard thought.
Boyd leaped high for Garner's on-target pass and threw down a dunk that must have had Spike Lee feeling as if he was watching Jeremy Lin and Amare Stoudemire at Madison Garden instead of Long Island University in a 1,700-seat gym in Brooklyn.
Garner and Boyd provided the highlight of the night, and Jason Brickman directed the LIU's fast-breaking Blackbirds flawlessly to a 90-73 victory against Robert Morris in the Northeast Conference championship game Wednesday night.
In a rematch of last season's NEC title game thriller, the top-seeded Blackbirds (25-8) didn't need overtime to fend off the No. 3 seed Colonials (24-10) this year and earn a second consecutive NCAA berth.
'We set a goal to try to accomplish something and become great team,' said coach Jim Ferry, in his 10th season at LIU. 'To do it back-to-back ... is pretty special.
'Heck, Spike Lee even showed up.'
Lee, who grew up in Brooklyn, strolled into the WRAC about 30 minutes before tipoff wearing a Knicks baseball cap, an orange hooded sweatshirt and black vest. The diminutive director took a seat behind the basket, right next to three young fans who spelled out LIU on their painted bare chests.
'He said we better win,' Ferry said Lee told him before the game. 'He didn't want to be the jinx.'
Garner scored 21 points, Boyd had 18 points and 10 rebounds and Brickman had 18 points and an NEC championship game-record 11 assists.
'Jason, he's the captain behind this ship. He's the coach on the floor. Without him we couldn't do this,' said Jamal Olasewere, who scored 12 points before fouling out.
Velton Jones, RMU's leading scorer, was knocked hard to the floor in the opening minutes and appeared to come away with sore ribs. He played most of the game and scored 10 points, though he shot 3 for 12.
'It was hurting a little bit during the game but I tried to fight through as much as I could,' Jones said.
Freshman Lucky Jones scored 14 points for Robert Morris and Coron Williams added 13. The Colonials handed LIU one of its two NEC losses during the regular season, but this time around they couldn't keep the Blackbirds' speedy backcourt of Brickman and Garner in check.
'We tried to play LIU basketball against LIU -- and they're better at it,' RMU coach Andrew Toole said. 'We tried to run up and down. We took quick shots.'
The Blackbirds love to push the pace and at their best they are low-mid major showtime. They nearly blew the lid off the Wellness, Recreation and Athletic Center when Garner found Boyd on that long alley-oop. Boyd's dunk put LIU up 59-45 with 10 minutes left in the second half and had Lee handing out high-fives to the fans around him.
'Me and Julian, we have a connection on the alley-oops,' Garner said. 'I knew to just throw it up there.'
Ferry said: 'We practice it every day. I don't think we ever threw one from that far.'
Garner's fadeaway in the lane put LIU up 74-60 with 4:03 to go and Robert Morris couldn't get it any close than 10 the rest of the way.
LIU lost in the first round to North Carolina last year in the NCAA tournament. This time the Blackbirds would like to stay longer.
'A lot will depend on the seed and the matchup,' Ferry said. 'I think we have the ability to beat someone.'
Robert Morris was making its fourth straight appearance in the NEC finals, trying to win three championships in four years.
'It's just a disappointing feeling that we played the way we did,' Velton Jones said.
LIU has won 27 straight games at the WRAC. The Fort Greene neighborhood is a long way from Lexington, Ky., but only No. 1 Kentucky has a longer home winning streak in Division I.
The Blackbirds, who average an NEC-best 81 points, controlled the pace over the last 8 minutes of the first half to build a 39-31 lead at the break. Though Ferry could tell even earlier that it was LIU's type of game.
'I sensed it probably in the first three minutes. Even though they had the lead we were playing our tempo,' he said.
Brickman attacked the basket at every opportunity and got his teammates easy shots with seven assists in the first half. The Blackbirds shot 53 percent for the game.
Brickman found Brandon Thompson in the corner for a 3-pointer with 2 seconds left in the first half that had the packed crowd hopping, including one very famous film director.
'It's definitely a great feeling to be able to repeat,' Garner said.

Courtesy of NEC

NEC Tournament Final: LIU Brooklyn - Robert Morris 90-73
NEC Tournament Semifinals:
Robert Morris - Wagner 71-64
LIU Brooklyn - Quinnipiac 78-75

All-NEC 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Julian Boyd
Boyd
Shane Gibson
Gibson
Ken Horton
Horton
Velton Jones
Jones
Jamal Olasewere
Olasewere
#e#5

Player of the Year: Julian Boyd (6'7''-F-90) of LIU Brooklyn
All-Tournament MVP: Julian Boyd (6'7''-F-90) of LIU Brooklyn
Defensive Player of the Year: Kenneth Ortiz (6'0''-G-91) of Wagner
Rookie of the Year: Kyle Vinales (6'1''-G) of Cent.Conn.St.
Most Improved Player of the Year: Scott Eatherton (6'8''-F) of St.Francis, PA
Coach of the Year: Glenn Braica of St.Francis, NY

1st Team
F: Julian Boyd (6'7''-90) of LIU Brooklyn
G: Shane Gibson (6'2'') of Sacred Heart
F: Ken Horton (6'6'') of Cent.Conn.St.
G: Velton Jones (6'0''-89) of Robert Morris
F: Jamal Olasewere (6'7''-91) of LIU Brooklyn

2nd Team
F: Ike Azotam (6'7'') of Quinnipiac
G: Jason Brickman (5'10''-91) of LIU Brooklyn
G: James Johnson (6'0'') of Quinnipiac
G: Tyler Murray (6'5''-90) of Wagner
G: Latif Rivers (6'1''-91) of Wagner

All-Tournament Team
Julian Boyd (6'7''-F-90) of LIU Brooklyn
Jason Brickman (5'10''-G-91) of LIU Brooklyn
C.J. Garner (5'10''-G-90) of LIU Brooklyn
Velton Jones (6'0''-G-89) of Robert Morris
Lucky Jones (6'5''-G/F-93) of Robert Morris

All-Rookie Team
Jalen Cannon (6'6''-F-93) of St.Francis, NY
Ousmane Drame (6'9''-F) of Quinnipiac
Lucky Jones (6'5''-G/F-93) of Robert Morris
Dion Nesmith (6'3''-G) of Monmouth
Kyle Vinales (6'1''-G) of Cent.Conn.St.



Harvard Men's Basketball Headed to the Big Dance for First Time Since 1946 - by Greg
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- For the first time since 1946, the Harvard men's basketball team will play in the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championshi, as the Crimson earned the Ivy League's automatic berth to the field of 68.
Harvard, which has set a school record with 26 victories this season, clinched the conference's automatic bid with Princeton's 62-52 win over Penn Tuesday night. This will be Harvard's second trip to the NCAA Tournament in program history.
'We are thrilled and honored to have an opportunity to compete in the 2012 NCAA tournament,' said Harvard head coach Tommy Amaker, who is in his fifth season with the Crimson. 'This is a tremendous moment for Harvard University, our basketball program and our community. Go Crimson!'
Harvard, which stands at 26-4 overall, finished 12-2 in the Ivy League, earning its second straight conference crown and its first outright title. The Crimson went 11-1 at home, 12-3 in road contests and 3-0 in neutral games. Harvard earned the first national ranking in program history, reaching as high as No. 21 in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches poll and No. 22 in the AP poll.
The Crimson opened the season 8-0, winning the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas in November by defeating Utah, Florida State and Central Florida. Harvard won nine straight games from Jan. 7-Feb. 10 to improve to 21-2 overall, marking the best start in program history.
On March 3, Harvard clinched its second-consecutive Ivy League title by winning on the road at Cornell by a score of 67-63. The Crimson's 26 wins so far this season are a program record.

Courtesy of Ivy League

All-Ivy League 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Zack Rosen
Rosen
Brian Barbour
Barbour
Chris Wroblewski
Wroblewski
Kyle Casey
Casey
Ian Hummer
Hummer
#e#5

Player of the Year: Zack Rosen (6'1''-PG) of Pennsylvania
Defensive Player of the Year: Reggie Willhite (6'4''-G/F) of Yale
Rookie of the Year: Shonn Miller (6'7''-F) of Cornell
Coach of the Year: Tommy Amaker of Harvard

1st Team
G: Brian Barbour (6'1''-91) of Columbia
G: Chris Wroblewski (6'0'') of Cornell
F: Kyle Casey (6'7'') of Harvard
PG: Zack Rosen (6'1'') of Pennsylvania
F: Ian Hummer (6'7''-90) of Princeton
F: Greg Mangano (6'10''-89) of Yale

2nd Team
G: Sean McGonagill (6'1''-91) of Brown
PG: Brandyn Curry (6'1'') of Harvard
F: Keith Wright (6'8'') of Harvard
G: Douglas Davis (5'11''-89) of Princeton
G/F: Reggie Willhite (6'4'') of Yale

Honorable Mention
Johnathan Gray (6'3''-G) of Cornell
Rob Belcore (6'6''-G) of Pennsylvania



All-Independent Summary 2011-2012 - by Greg
All-Independent 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Antwan Carter
Carter
Stephon Carter
Carter
Jeremiah Bowman
Bowman
Mitch Albers
Albers
Aaron Broussard
Broussard
#e#5

Player of the Year: Antwan Carter (6'6''-C) of Longwood
Freshman of the Year: C.J. Carter (6'0''-G-93) of Nebraska-Omaha
Coach of the Year: Rod Barnes of CSU Bakersfield

1st Team
G: Stephon Carter (6'3'') of CSU Bakersfield
G: Jeremiah Bowman (6'2'') of Longwood
G: Mitch Albers (6'4''-88) of Nebraska-Omaha
F: Aaron Broussard (6'5''-90) of Seattle
C: Antwan Carter (6'6'') of Longwood

2nd Team
G: Tristan Carey (6'4'') of Longwood
G: Issiah Grayson (5'11'') of CSU Bakersfield
G/F: Eric Wallace (6'6'') of Seattle
F: Alex Welhouse (6'7''-89) of Nebraska-Omaha
C: John Karhoff (6'8''-90) of Nebraska-Omaha



Lehigh wins 2012 Patriot League Men's Basketball Championship - by Greg
Lewisburg, Pa.- Lehigh held off numerous Bucknell rallies and hit four foul shots in the final five seconds to knock off the top-seed Bison 82-77 in the Patriot League Men's Basketball Championship on Wednesday at Sojka Pavilion.
The Mountain Hawks (26-7) win their third Patriot League title, and second in the past three seasons. They earn the Patriot League's automatic berth to the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament, with the brackets announced on Sunday at 6 p.m. on CBS. Lehigh makes the NCAA tourney for the fifth time, and third as a Patriot League member.
Bucknell (24-9) falls in its bid to repeat as Patriot League champion. As the League's top seed and regular-season winner, the Bison will receive a berth to the National Invitation Tournament, with the brackets announced on Sunday evening. The Bison will compete in the NIT for the first time, and will be the first Patriot League team in the event since Holy Cross in 2005.
The Patriot League's pair of stars were on display with spectacular games. Lehigh junior C.J. McCollum had 29 points, five assists and three steals and was named Patriot League Tournament Most Valuable Player. Bucknell junior Mike Muscala finished with 30 points and 14 rebounds, coming one point shy of the record for a Patriot League Championship. Muscala made the Patriot League All-Tournament Team along with classmate Joe Willman, Lehigh's Mackey McKnight and Gabe Knutson, and Lafayette's Rob Delaney.
Second-seed Lehigh never trailed in the game, but Bucknell came back to tie the score at 50-50 with 13:12 to go. The Mountain Hawks answered with a 9-0 run to take the lead for good, but the Bison never went away. Lehigh was up 78-71 with 45 seconds left before Bucknell's Bryson Johnson canned consecutive three-pointers in a three-second span to bring the Bison within 78-77 with 36 seconds to go. McKnight missed a pair of free throws with 26 seconds to go to give Bucknell the ball with a chance to win. Cameron Ayers missed a layup with eight seconds to go for the Bison, and McCollom grabbed the rebound and made a pair of free throws to put Lehigh ahead 80-77 with four seconds left. Jordan Hamilton stole a full-court inbounds pass by the Bison, and hit two free throws to seal the 82-77 Lehigh victory.
The Mountain Hawks opened the game with a 14-6 lead, and soon the trend of Bucknell rallying and Lehigh answering began. The Bison scored seven straight points to get within one, and evened the score for the first time at 15-15. Lehigh came back with six straight to go up 21-15, and later put together an 11-2 run to build its biggest lead of the night at 36-25 with 3:48 to play in the first half. Bucknell battled back to cut its halftime deficit to 41-34, and the margin stayed there until the Bison scored seven in a row to even the game at 50-50 with 12:12 left. That was as close as Bucknell came as Lehigh went on to the 82-77 victory.
McCollum was 9-of-17 from the field and 10-of-13 at the line in his 29-point effort, coming two points shy of the record for the League Championship. Knutson produced inside with 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting, and also led the Mountain Hawks with seven rebounds. McKnight added 11 in the game for Lehigh as the All-Tournament trio scored 63 of the team's 82 points.
Muscala had 30 points on 8-of-17 shooting from the field with a strong 14-of-16 night at the free throw line. Johnson finished with 11 points for the Bison, while Willman added 10. Cameron Ayers scored nine for Bucknell and Steven Kaspar finished with eight.
Lehigh shot an even 50 percent from the field at 28-of-56, and made 7-of-15 three-pointers. The Mountain Hawks had 12 assists with 10 turnovers, and finished with 10 steals in the game. Lehigh was 19-of-28 at the foul line, well below average for a team that came into the night second in the nation in free-throw percentage.
Bucknell made 23-of-55 field goals, finishing just below 42 percent from the field. The Bison had an outstanding night at the charity stripe by going 25-of-31, and also held a 35-28 rebounding advantage. Bucknell was a solid 6-of-13 from beyond the arc, and had 14 assists with 12 turnovers. Bucknell's bench outscored Lehigh 23-11.
Lehigh became the fifth No. 2 seed to win the Patriot League crown, with the other 17 titles all won by the No. 1 seed. The No. 1 seed had won six consecutive Patriot League titles. Bucknell was the last No. 2 to win the Patriot League title, beating top seed Holy Cross 61-57 on the road in 2005.
Lehigh joins Bucknell and Navy with three Patriot League titles, trailing only Holy Cross with five.
Recaps from each of the schools are included below, along with a box score from the contest.

Courtesy of Patriot League

Patriot League Tournament Final: Lehigh - Bucknell 82-77
Patriot League Tournament Semifinals:
Lehigh - American 85-66
Bucknell - Lafayette 79-52

All-Patriot League 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
C.J. McCollum
McCollum
Ella Ellis
Ellis
Charles Hinkle
Hinkle
Mike Muscala
Muscala
Ryan Willen
Willen
#e#5

Player of the Year: C.J. McCollum (6'3''-G) of Lehigh
All-Tournament MVP: C.J. McCollum (6'3''-G) of Lehigh
Defensive Player of the Year: Bryan Cohen (6'6''-G-89) of Bucknell
Rookie of the Year: Justin Burrell (5'8''-G) of Holy Cross
Coach of the Year: Dave Paulsen of Bucknell

1st Team
F: Ella Ellis (6'5'') of Army
G: Charles Hinkle (6'5'') of American
G: C.J. McCollum (6'3'') of Lehigh
F/C: Mike Muscala (6'11''-91) of Bucknell
F: Ryan Willen (6'8'') of Lafayette

2nd Team
G: Cameron Ayers (6'5''-91) of Bucknell
G: Devin Brown (6'1'') of Holy Cross
G: Bryan Cohen (6'6''-89) of Bucknell
G: Tony Johnson (6'0'') of Lafayette
F: Gabe Knutson (6'9'') of Lehigh
F: Joe Willman (6'6''-91) of Bucknell

All-Tournament Team
C.J. McCollum (6'3''-G) of Lehigh
Gabe Knutson (6'9''-F) of Lehigh
Mackey McKnight (6'0''-G) of Lehigh
Mike Muscala (6'11''-F/C-91) of Bucknell
Joe Willman (6'6''-F-91) of Bucknell
Rob Delaney (6'4''-G) of Lafayette

All-Rookie Team
Justin Burrell (5'8''-G) of Holy Cross
Seth Hinrichs (6'7''-G) of Lafayette
Maxwell Lenox (6'0''-G) of Army
Worth Smith (6'6''-F-93) of Navy
Dan Trist (6'9''-F-92) of Lafayette



*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


NCAA D2 Top 25 Ranking
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Colorado Mines 27-2
 2. Al.-Huntsville 26-3
 3. W.Liberty St. 29-2
 4. Bellarmine 25-3
 5. S.Indiana 24-6
 6. Christian Brothers 23-6
 7. N.Kentucky 23-6
 8. Metro St. 22-6
 9. Anderson, SC 24-5
 10. Charleston Un. 26-6
 11. Ky Wesleyan 21-7
 12. Washburn 24-7
 13. Hillsdale 24-5
 14. NW Missouri St. 22-6
 15. Montevallo 24-7
 16. Missouri So. 22-7
 17. Lincoln Memorial 25-5
 18. Findlay, OH 23-6


*****************************************************
  NCAA3   


Top 25 Ranking
Top 25 Ranking
 1. Hope, MI
 2. Amherst
 3. MIT
 4. Middlebury
 5. Cabrini
 6. Va.Wesleyan
 7. Whitworth
 8. WiscKing.-Whitew.
 9. Franklin & Marshall
 10. Mary Hardin Baylor
 11. Claremont-Mudd
 12. William Pater.
 13. Birm.Southern
 14. Oswego St.
 15. Wooster
 16. Albertus Magnus
 17. Wisc.-RiverFal.
 18. Transylvania
 19. Wash.-St.Louis
 20. Bethany, WV
 21. E.Connecticut
 22. Wittenberg
 23. N.Central Coll.
 24. Wheaton, IL
 25. Chris.Newport


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


Corletto signs new 2 year deal with Breakers - by Hugh McAuliffe
The New Zealand Breakers have this morning confirmed the signing of guard Daryl Corletto (193-G-81) on a two year contract, after Corletto tweeted the news to followers last night.

Corletto arrived late in the pre-season on a one-year deal after he parted ways with the Melbourne Tigers and is enjoying a career season, not only posting great numbers but holding on to a role in the starting five despite the return of CJ Bruton from a knee injury earlier in the season.

Corletto is delighted with the news.

I just couldnt be happier to be honest, this has been a great season for me and I feel like I am playing at a great club, one that I want to end my playing days with. I guess there was some uncertainty when I first came over but even then I knew of the clubs reputation for looking after players and welcoming everyone into the SKYCITY Breakers family. That reputation has proven to be right on the money, this is a great organisation and one I am proud to represent.

Negotiations were easy, I wanted to be here and it seems as though the feeling is mutual, the club was keen to keep me. It is great to have this done at this stage of the season so there are no distractions as we head to the end of the regular season and concentrate all our efforts on Adelaide this weekend.

Corletto has indicated a desire to play until he is 34 or 35 and will reassess those aims at the end of the newly inked deal but clearly has a view to stay in New Zealand until he calls it a day.

Sometimes things happen for a reason, you dont always see that at the time but moving to the SKYCITY Breakers has been great for my career and I have to say for me in the sense that I am enjoying my basketball like I havent done in a long time. I am playing for a great coaching team and with a great group of players and support staff. Why wouldnt you enjoy this?

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Desmond HOLLOWAY
  Sauk V.
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 27.1
 1. Holloway, Sauk V.27.1 
 2. Favors, Sauk V.21.4 
 3. Valencia, Lake M.21.1 
 4. Radcliff, Indiana21.1 
 5. Love, Chicago M.19.8 
 6. Simpson, Scranton.19.7 
 7. Fay, Sauk Valley P.19.2 
 8. Tubbs, Sauk V.19.0 
 9. Robinson, Scranton.18.8 
 10. Commons, Scranto.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Billy PETTIFORD
  India.
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 12.5
 1. Pettiford, India.12.5 
 2. Robinson, Scranton.11.4 
 3. Hill, Chicago M.10.6 
 4. Valencia, Lake M.10.0 
 5. Fay, Sauk Valley P.9.7 
 6. Davis, Rochester R.8.5 
 7. Holloway, Sauk V.8.4 
 8. Harris, Sauk V.7.9 
 9. Hill, St. Louis P.7.5 
 10. Walton, Rocheste.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Herman FAVORS
  Sauk V.
  (174-G-84)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Favors, Sauk V.8.1 
 2. Simpson, Scranton.6.8 
 3. Ruffin, Cent.I.5.1 
 4. Petty, Cent.Ill.5.1 
 5. Smith, Dayton A.S.4.6 
 6. Crouch, Rocheste.4.5 
 7. Anderson, Chica.4.2 
 8. Snow, Lake M.4.0 
 9. Council, Rocheste.3.9 
 10. Radcliff, Indiana3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marcel ANDERSON
  Chica.
  (175-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Anderson, Chica.2.2 
 2. Holloway, Sauk V.2.0 
 3. Polk, St. Louis P.1.7 
 4. Pettiford, India.1.5 
 5. Smith, Dayton A.S.1.4 
 6. Blackmore, Lake M.1.4 
 7. Livas, Chicago M.1.3 
 8. Snow, Lake M.1.3 
 9. Robinson, Scranton.1.3 
 10. Griffin, Scranton.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Shagari ALLEYNE
  Lake M.
  (221-C-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Alleyne, Lake M.2.6 
 2. Commons, Scranton.2.0 
 3. Batiste, Lake M.1.6 
 4. Slack, Cent.Ill.1.6 
 5. Webster, Rocheste.1.4 
 6. Pettiford, India.1.2 
 7. Robinson, Scranton.1.1 
 8. Hill, Chicago M.1.0 
 9. Davis, Rochester R.0.9 
 10. Gorman, Scranton.0.8 


Standings
PBL Standings
Central Division
 1. Cent.Illinois D. 15-0 
 2. Sauk Valley P. 7-6 
 3. Chicago M. 7-7 
 4. St. Louis P. 3-8 
 5. Indiana D. 2-10 
Eastern Division
 1. Rochester R. 13-1 
 2. Scranton/W-B 5-8 
 3. Dayton A.S. 4-7 
 4. Lake Michigan 3-9 


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


PBA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Nick FAZEKAS
  Petron B.
  (211-F-85)
  Avg: 32
 1. Fazekas, Petron B.32.0 
 2. Crews, Rain o.30.6 
 3. David, Powerade T.27.3 
 4. Bowles, B-Meg L.26.6 
 5. Famous, Meralco26.0 
 6. Barron, Meralco25.0 
 7. Cardona, Meralco21.7 
 8. Caguioa, Ginebra21.0 
 9. Baguio, Alaska Ac.20.6 
 10. Jones, Powerade20.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris ALEXANDER
  Ginebr.
  (216-C-80)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Alexander, Ginebr.20.3 
 2. Douthit, Air21 E.20.0 
 3. Fazekas, Petron B.18.0 
 4. Jones, Powerade T.17.3 
 5. Famous, Meralco15.0 
 6. Crews, Rain o.15.0 
 7. Parada, Alaska Ac.14.6 
 8. Barron, Meralco14.0 
 9. Vroman, Ginebra13.0 
 10. Samhan, Talk N.11.5 
Assists Per Game
 Joseph CASIO
  Powerade T.
  (177-PG-86)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Casio, Powerade T.8.8 
 2. Ross, Meralco8.5 
 3. Cabagnot, Petron7.4 
 4. Alapag, Talk N Te.6.8 
 5. Tenorio, Alaska A.6.2 
 6. Helterbrand, Gineb.6.0 
 7. Hubalde, Air21 E.4.0 
 8. Norwood, Rain o.3.8 
 9. Custodio, Alaska A.3.8 
 10. Yap, B-Meg Llam.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Chris ROSS
  Meralco .
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ross, Meralco2.3 
 2. Vroman, Ginebra2.0 
 3. Lassiter, Powerade.1.8 
 4. Johnson, Barako B.1.8 
 5. Barroca, B-Meg L.1.6 
 6. Fazekas, Petron B.1.6 
 7. Hatfield, Ginebra1.3 
 8. Castro, Talk N Te.1.3 
 9. Norwood, Rain o.1.2 
 10. Buenafe, Rain o.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Jackson VROMAN
  Ginebra .
  (208-C/F-81)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Vroman, Ginebra4.5 
 2. Samhan, Talk N.4.0 
 3. Jones, Powerade T.3.0 
 4. Santos, Petron B.2.6 
 5. Fazekas, Petron B.2.4 
 6. Parada, Alaska Ac.2.4 
 7. Crews, Rain o.2.0 
 8. Omolon, Air21 E.1.8 
 9. Alexander, Ginebr.1.7 
 10. Famous, Meralco1.7 


Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Talk N Text 3-1 
 2. Petron Blaze 3-2 
 3. Alaska Aces 3-2 
 4. Ginebra Kings 3-2 
 5. B-Meg Llam. 3-2 
 6. Powerade T. 2-2 
 7. Barako Bull 2-3 
 8. Meralco Bolts 2-4 
 9. Rain or Shine 1-4 
 10. Shopinas.com C. 0-0 


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


Kuczynski number one in Polish 2Liga for round 22 - by Eurobasket News
Forward Lukasz Kuczynski (194-F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Tur Bielsk Pdl., receiving a Eurobasket.com 2Liga Player of the Week award for round 22.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 33 points and 22 rebounds, while his team crushed UKS Siemaszka (#11, 7-14) with 19-point margin 83-64. Tur Bielsk Pdl. maintains the 4th position in Polish 2Liga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Tur Bielsk Pdl. will need more victories to improve their 13-7 record. Kuczynski turned to be Tur Bielsk Pdl.'s top player in his first season with the team. Lukasz Kuczynski has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (3rd best: 20.9ppg), rebounds (8th best: 9.7rpg) and averages impressive 1.1bpg,2.6spg and 59.2% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 34-year old former international forward Radoslaw Hyzy (203-F-77) of league's leader Slask II W.. Hyzy had a very good evening with a double-double of 23 points and 12 rebounds. Of course he lead Slask II W. to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Pogon Prudnik (#5, 14-8) 111-65. Of course Slask II W. still keep Group B's top spot. His team lost just three games this season, while they won 19 matches. Hyzy is a newcomer at Slask II W., but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Sebastian Laydych (203-F/C-87) of league's second-best Astoria Bydg.. Laydych got into 30-points club by scoring 38 points in the last round. He went also for ten rebounds . He was a key player of Astoria Bydg., leading his team to a 85-67 easy win against the lower-ranked Trefl II Sopot (#9, 8-11). Astoria Bydg. needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in Group A. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 5 lost games. Laydych has a very solid season. In 20 games in Poland he scored 17.5ppg. He also has 8.1rpg and FGP: 54.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marcin Stoklosa (188-G-77) of Open Florentyna - 11 points, 6 rebounds and 14 assists
5. Piotr Renkiel (190-G-87) of Korsarz Gdansk - 20 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Piotr Mis (204-F/C-77) of Handlopex AZS - 25 points, 18 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Marcin Dymala (185-G-90) of BM Wegiel Stal - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Andrzej Paszkiewicz (180-G-79) of PWiK Piaseczno - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 11 assists
9. Marcin Kowalewski (200-PF-86) of AZS UWM Olsz. - 29 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Jakub Dwernicki (180-G-86) of Wisla AWF Kr. - 32 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists

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

Basinski number one in Polish 1Liga for round 25 - by Eurobasket News
Point guard Radoslaw Basinski (188-PG-78) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for SKK Siedlce, receiving a Eurobasket.com 1Liga Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 33-year old player had a double-double of 11 points and 14 rebounds, while his team crushed P.Cukier SIDEn (#10, 11-12) with 24-point margin 80-56. SKK Siedlce maintains the 3rd position in Polish 1Liga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. SKK Siedlce will need more victories to improve their 16-7 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Basinski as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Radoslaw Basinski has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (3rd best: 4.7apg) and averages impressive 1.3bpg and 2.4spg.

The second best player in last round's games was 33-year old Marcin Sterenga (201-F-78) of Sudety. Sterenga had a very good evening with 32 points and 8 rebounds. Bad luck as Sudety lost that game 76-85 to the higher-ranked AZS Szczecin (#11, 10-13). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Sudety is still at the dead bottom 15th position. 21 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Sudety managed to get this year. Sterenga is one of the most experienced players at Sudety and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Slawomir Nowak (198-F-77) of MOSiR Krosno (#13). Nowak scored 21 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of MOSiR Krosno, leading his team to a 75-65 win against the higher-ranked Polonia (#9, 12-11). MOSiR Krosno can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 6-18 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Nowak he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Nowak has a very solid season. In 9 games in Poland he scored 7.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lukasz Zytko (181-G-81) of P.Cukier SIDEn - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Francis Jonathan Han (185-G-87) of Sportino - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Adrian Czerwonka (196-G/F-81) of SKK Siedlce - 21 points and 3 rebounds
7. Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-F-84) of Znicz Basket - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Lukasz Pacocha (182-G-82) of AZS Szczecin - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Lukasz Bonarek (198-F-93) of Znicz Basket - 14 points and 11 rebounds
10. Piotr Wojdyr (217-C-90) of Spojnia - 16 points and 9 rebounds

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

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
 1. Quebradillas 3-0 
 2. Guaynabo 3-1 
 3. Bayamon 2-1 
 4. Mayaguez 2-1 
 5. Guayama 1-2 
 6. San German 1-2 
 7. Arecibo 1-3 
 8. Humacao 0-3 


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 27
 1. Thornton, Guayama27.0 
 2. Rivera, San German25.0 
 3. McCants, Humacao24.5 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon24.0 
 5. Williams, Quebradi.21.3 
 6. Hodge, Humacao21.0 
 7. Galindo, Guayama19.7 
 8. Smith, Mayaguez18.7 
 9. Shannon, Quebradil.16.7 
 10. Garnett, San G.16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris BURGESS
  Guaynabo
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 9
 1. Burgess, Guaynabo9.0 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas9.0 
 3. Thornton, Guayama9.0 
 4. Smith, Mayaguez8.7 
 5. Valenzuela, Humac.8.5 
 6. James, Humacao8.0 
 7. Galindo, Guayama8.0 
 8. Shannon, Quebradil.8.0 
 9. Hodge, Humacao7.5 
 10. Salas Flores, Bay.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 7
 1. Smith, Mayaguez7.0 
 2. Rivera, San German6.0 
 3. Williams, Quebradi.5.0 
 4. Rodriguez, San G.4.7 
 5. Dalmau, Bayamon4.3 
 6. Guzman, Guaynabo4.0 
 7. Pagan, Guayama4.0 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.0 
 9. Strong, San German3.7 
 10. Hodge, Humacao3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Smith, Mayaguez3.7 
 2. Hodge, Humacao3.5 
 3. Ramirez, Mayaguez2.3 
 4. Salas Flores, Baya.2.0 
 5. Ortiz, Mayaguez2.0 
 6. Lamizana, Bayamon2.0 
 7. McCants, Humacao2.0 
 8. Davis, Quebradillas1.7 
 9. Mojica, Bayamon1.7 
 10. Galindo, Guayama1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 4
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon4.0 
 2. Burgess, Guaynabo3.3 
 3. Santiago, Arecibo1.8 
 4. Thornton, Guayama1.7 
 5. Valenzuela, Humac.1.5 
 6. Ramos, Quebradillas1.3 
 7. Shannon, Quebradil.1.3 
 8. Aubry, Arecibo1.3 
 9. Orozco, Bayamon1.0 
 10. Lopez, Humacao1.0 


Al Thornton gets MVP of the Round award for Puerto Rican BSN - by Eurobasket News
American Al Thornton (203-F-83) had an amazing evening in the last week for Guayama and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 3.
The 28-year old forward had a double-double of 34 points and eleven rebounds, while his team lost overtime game against the league's best team Quebradillas (#1, 3-0) 104-109. Guayama maintains the 5th position in Puerto Rican BSN with 1-2 score. Thornton just recently signed at Guayama and just after two games he already turned to be a very valuable addition to the team. Florida State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Thornton is in league's top in points (5th best: 23.5ppg), rebounds (7th best: 8.0rpg) and averages solid 52.2% FGP and 55.6% from behind 3-point line.

The second most remarkable performance in last week's games was 28-year old American guard Donta Smith (201-G-83) of Mayaguez. Smith impressed basketball fans with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as Mayaguez lost that game 83-90 to Bayamon (2-1). The season is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next week. Smith is one of the most experienced players at Mayaguez and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.7ppg (#7). His other stats are also decent: 8.7rpg and 7.0apg.

The third best performed player last week was American Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: SportsTalent) of Arecibo (#7). Pinnock scored 21 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Pinnock's great performance Arecibo lost 89-95 to San German (#6, 1-2). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Arecibo can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-3 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Pinnock he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Pinnock has a very solid season. In 4 games in Puerto Rico he scored 12.5ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Hector Valenzuela (204-C-82) of Humacao - 14 points and 13 rebounds
5. Kevinn Pinkney (207-F-83) of San German - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Terrence Shannon (203-F-79) of Quebradillas - 17 points and 7 rebounds
7. Jerome James (216-C-75) of Humacao - 17 points and 10 rebounds
8. Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Quebradillas - 16 points and 12 rebounds
9. Alexander Galindo (200-F-85) of Guayama - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Filiberto Rivera (190-PG-82) of San German - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 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)

Vaqueros and Atleticos won on Thursday: - by Luis Modestti

Vaqueros de Bayamon and Atleticos de San German won close games in Thursdays BSN action.

A three-pointer by Carmelo Antrone Lee (201-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Long Beach St.) with one second left gave Vaqueros a 69-66 win over Caciques de Humacao.

After a 20-14 first quarter lead by Bayamon, Caciques pressured Vaqueros and the game became a defensive duel.

Jerome James (216-C-75, college: Florida A&M) tied the game with less than 18 seconds left and in the final possession Lee gave Vaqueros the win.

Javier Mojica (190-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) and Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) led Bayamon with 16 points each.

Julius Hodge (201-G-83, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: N.Carolina St.) had 22 points for Humacao. Rashad McCants (193-G/F-84, college: N.Carolina) missed the game due to a foot injury.

Atleticos de San German now enjoys a 2-2 record by beating Mets de Guaynabo 94-89.

There was a lot of electricity in the air as Leon Powe (203-F-84, college: California) made his debut for Atleticos and scored 11 points in 18:24 played.

Kevinn Pinkney (207-F-83, college: Nevada) led Atleticos with 21 points and Filiberto Rivera (190-PG-82, college: UTEP) followed with 17.

In the loss Angel Luis Figueroa (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Dowling) netted 25 and Ansel Guzman had 16.

On Friday Mayaguez plays at Guaynabo, San German visit Guayama and Bayamon faces Quebradillas.


Arecibo struggling in BSN and now hosts the FIBA-Americas League: - by Luis Modestti

BSN defending champion Capitanes de Arecibo hosts Group C of the 2012 FIBA-Americas League that starts today at Petaca Iguina Coliseum.

Arecibo had a successful run last season by playing in the FIBA-Americas League Final Four and also becoming the BSN champion for a second straight season.

Now it is a different story as Arecibo started the 2012 BSN season with a 1-3 record and has the second worst offense in the league by averaging 78.3 points per game.

The team doesnt have consistent production in the paint and also in their guard play. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) leads the team in scoring with 15 points per game but is shooting 37% from two and 25% from three-point range. Almost all the team members have had their up and downs with just four games in the season. Consistent play by their shooters and big men will help them a lot in this series. Defensively Arecibo is still one of the best teams in Puerto Rico.

In the FIBA-Americas League they have to play three straight games against teams from other leagues. The other group members are Leones de Santo Domingo (DOM), Cocodrilos de Caracas (VEN) and Joinville (BRA).

Leones are the Dominican League Champions, Cocodrilos were the runner-up in Venezuela and Joinville was eliminated in the quarterfinals in Brazil last season.

Right now Cocodrilos lead the Venezuelan league with a 16-4 record and Joinville has a 10-12 mark. Leones aren't active as their season starts on July.


On Friday Joinville plays Leones (17:35) and Cocodrilos faces Capitanes (19:45).



Leon Powe joins Atleticos de San German - by Javier Figueroa
Leon Powe (203-F-84, college: California) joins the Atleticos de San German in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional ( BSN) league in Puerto Rico. Powe subsitutes imported player Jamal Nichols (206-F-83, college: De Paul) who only played 2 games with Atleticos. Powe will be playing next to the trio of imports Kevinn Pinkney (207-F-83, college: Nevada) and Marlon Garnett (188-G-75, college: Santa Clara). Atleticos de San German record at the moment is 1-2. Powe makes this team a threat in the BSN and is a team to watch as the favorite underdog in the league once Harris Mike (198-F-83, college: Rice) joins the team any time soon.

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


Bosnjak's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
29-year old guard Ivan Bosnjak (198-G-82, agency: BeoExcell) put on an amazing game in the last round for CSM Bucuresti and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
He had a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds, while his team outclassed, the league's bottom-ranked team Politehnica (#15, 0-23) with 45-point margin 97-52. CSM Bucuresti is placed at 3rd position in Romanian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. CSM Bucuresti will need more victories to improve their 16-7 record. In the team's last game Bosnjak had a remarkable six three-pointers out of 7 attempts. He just recently signed at CSM Bucuresti, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Ivan Bosnjak averages this season 9.5ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell) of Ploiesti. He is Serbian in his first season at Ploiesti. In the last game Tica recorded impressive 24 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Ploiesti to another comfortable win 94-77 over the lower-ranked Perla Harghitei (#14, 3-19) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed Ploiesti to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 15-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Tica is one of the most experienced players at Ploiesti and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to swingman Miladin Pekovic (196-G/F-83, agency: BeoExcell) of Targu Mures (#4). Pekovic showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, six rebounds and seven assists in the last round. He was a key player of Targu Mures, leading his team to a 92-63 easy win against the lower-ranked Dinamo B. (#12, 7-16). Targu Mures needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 7 lost games. Pekovic has a very solid season. In 7 games in Romania he scored 14.1ppg. He also has 4.1rpg, 3.7apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 55.6% and 3PT: 45.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Stephen Ross (201-G/F-80) of Craiova - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Enrico Tucker (183-PG-86) of Perla Harghitei - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Daniel Tudosa (181-PG-87) of CSM Bucuresti - 22 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Porter Troupe (196-G-83) of Rovinari - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Damien Kinloch (203-F-80) of Pitesti - 17 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Cristian Jakab (206-C-81) of Perla Harghitei - 17 points and 10 rebounds
10. LeVar Seals (195-G-82) of Craiova - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists

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

*****************************************************
  RWANDA   


APR Edge Close to Playoffs Triumph - by Eurobasket News
APR closed in on their first trophy of the season after yesterday's win at Amahoro Indoor stadium. The Indomitable lions roared to a convincing 88-59 win over rivals and reigning league champions Kigali Basketball Club (KBC).

APR swept the first quarter 21-9 before a great comeback from KBC in the second quarter 22-18. However, Cliff Owuor's side won the third (21-9) and fourth (21-19) sets to edge closer to their first title in two years.

Owuor is now confident APR will finish off the job come Saturday.

In the ladies fray, APR continued their dominance after seeing off National University of Rwanda (NUR) 89-52.

This year's edition has been bankrolled by Imbuto foundation as part of their national campaign to fight against Malaria.

The winners will pocket Rwf0.3m while the first and second runners-up will settle for Rwf0.25m and Rwf0.2m respectively.

2012 Playoffs

Yesterday's results

Men

APR 88-59 KBC

Women

APR 89-52 NUR
The New Times

*****************************************************
  SCOTLAND   


Cadet Men face Glasgow Rens in first round of Play-offs - by Eurobasket News
Cadet Men face Glasgow Rens in first round of Play-offs

The Rocks U16s will take on Glasgow Rens this Saturday at Grangemouth Sports Centre in the first round of the play-offs.

Come along and support the boys as they try and progress through to take on the mighty Edinburgh Kings.

Tip-off is at 2:30pm
Courtesy of: http://www.glasgowrocks.co.uk

Green Machine makes BBL Team of the Week for the 6th time - by Eurobasket News
Mychal Green (193-G-83, college: Ohio) represents the Rocks once again in the BBL team of the Week. It is his 6th appearance this season.

Sherrad Prezzie-Blue (180-G-86, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Wentworth) (Worcester Wolves)
It's the sixth time the Wolves playmaker has managed to find his way into our starting five which underlines just how important Sherrad Prezzie-Blue has been to Paul James and the Wolves this season. He has been hugely consistent and having dispatched Cheshire Jets at home, the guard was instrumental in claiming a fine road win at Guildford Heat. He poured in 23 points to top score for Wolves and dished up three assists. He did some good defensive work too with seven rebounds and a steal as his team cantered to a 20 point win to consolidate second spot in the standings.

Mychal Green (Glasgow Rocks)
The Rocks guard is slowly creeping up on the rails as he also lands his sixth appearance of the season in our line-up after pulling the strings to great effect for the in-form Rocks against Durham Wildcats. Green racked up 19 points for the Scottish club and once again reminded us of his all-round skill-set by adding seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals as the Rocks continued their recent good run with a comfortable win against the Wildcats. Green seems to have recaptured the form which resulted in him being crowned Molten Player Of The Month earlier in the season.

Ayron Hardy (195-F-88, college: Jacksonville) (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)
The Riders star exploded during the weekend and landed a second triple-double in a row. He reminded us why he has the most BBL Team Of The Week appearances in spectacular fashion by racking up a mind-boggling performance valuation of 49 after an almost unbelievable 20 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists for Riders in their home success against One Health Sharks Sheffield. What got lost in the triple-double headlines was that the all-action sensation also came up with four blocked shots and two steals in one of the most impressive performances in BBL history and by far the best display by any player this season. This is the ninth time Hardy has made our starting five and not surprisingly, he remains the outright leader and now on the verge of taking his appearance into double digits.

Richie Gordon (203-F, college: W.Carolina) (Worcester Wolves)
The Wolves big man continues to hunt down Hardy in the race to finish top of the podium and he remains one of the jewels in the crown for a Worcester side posting their best ever BBL campaign as they try to keep themselves in contention for the league title. Gordon was excellent against Cheshire Jets in last Saturday's home win, racking up a powerful double-double of 23 points and 14 rebounds as well as four blocks, four assists and two steals to take his team to victory. In fact, things could have been even better but for five missed foul shots.

Paul Williams (208-F/C-83, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: St.Bonaventure) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
It's a third appearance in five weeks for the Raiders centre who is enjoying a great run of form. Not only did Williams excel against Durham Wildcats, he was the stand-out player during the weekend win double in the north-east which provided a shot in the arm for their title hopes having inflicted only the second defeat of the season on league leaders Newcastle Eagles last Friday night. Williams followed up a strong display in that game with a super showing 24 hours later at Newton Aycliffe, torturing the hometown Wildcats with a monstrous double-double of 20 points and 20 rebounds. He also added a block and an assist to his line.

Off The Bench - Marlin Capers (Mersey Tigers), Lehmon Colbert (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Arnas Kazklauskas (Worcester Wolves), Frank Holmes (Guildford Heat), Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield), Mike Tuck (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Courtesy of: http://www.glasgowrocks.co.uk

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Standings - 1A
Telemach League Stage Two Standings
 1. Elektra 0-0
 2. Geoplin Slovan 0-0
 3. Helios 0-0
 4. Krka 0-0
 5. LTHcast Mercator 0-0
 6. Maribor Messer 0-0
 7. Parklji 0-0
 8. Polzela 0-0
 9. Rogaska 0-0
 10. Sentjur 0-0
 11. Union Olimpija 0-0
 12. Zlatorog 0-0
Stage One Standings


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


KBL Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
KCC Egis - Mobis Phoebus 65-91

The game was mostly controlled by Mobis Phoebus. KCC Egis was better in second period 17-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mobis Phoebus shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (181-81) chipped in 26 points. Four Mobis Phoebus players scored in double figures. Mobis Phoebus' coach felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side international center Seung-Jin Ha (221-85) responded with 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) and American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) scored 8 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists.
Top scorers:
KCC Egis: S.Ha 19+8reb+1ast, J.Lim 12+1reb+1ast, M.Jeong 10+2reb, S.Choo 9+4ast, J.Watkins 8+13reb+5ast, T.Kim 7+3reb
Mobis Phoebus: T.Leather 33+14reb+1ast, D.Yang 26+3reb+3ast, G.Park 12+2reb+7ast, J.Ham 11+6reb+11ast, D.Kim 6+3reb, S.Hwa Hong 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 170414


Sonic Boom KT - ET Land 79-81 OT

The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 18-10 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 11-9. ET Land Elephants had a 27-14 advantage in offensive rebounds. Sonic Boom KT was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 29 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists (on 14-of-17 shooting from the field) for the winners and international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) chipped in 34 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) responded with 26 points and 9 rebounds and forward Sang-Oh Park (196-81) scored 16 points. Four Sonic Boom KT players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Sonic Boom KT: C.Rhodes 26+9reb+1ast, S.Park 16+3reb+2ast, S.Cho 11+4reb+3ast, Y.Song 10+1reb+4ast, W.Yaung 9+3reb+7ast, D.Cho 3+1reb+4ast
ET Land: T.Moon 34+6reb+3ast, H.Hill 29+11reb+4ast, H.Kang 7+6reb+7ast, B.Chung 5+3reb+1ast, H.Lee 4+4reb, H.Lee 2+3reb+1ast
gschID: 170415




Moon 'We are going to finish this series in Incheon' - by JungHwan Seo
Moon Tae-Jong (199-F-75, agency: Alti Sport, college: Richmond) was the man of clutch time again.

Inchon ET Land Elephants beats Sonic Boom KT to 81-79 at the first match of playoff series in Busan. Moon finished the game with 34 points, six rebounds, three assists and four shots from the arc.

'I did not feel well at the end of the regular season. I played aggressive today to get my shot conditions back. I am not going to save my energy. Just playing hard at every game' Moon said after game.

Moon showed great aggressiveness today. He drove to the basket and made a 'in your face' dunk on Song Young-Jin (198-C/F-78). He crushed his body with Rhodes Charles (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) on 4th quarter. Then, he landed dangerously on the floor.

'My back is painful now. It is going to hurt more at tomorrow morning. I needed to get some treatments tonight' Moon made a wry face.

Sonic Boom KT got a chance to finish this game when they were trailing to 69-70 at the end of 4th quarter. Cho Sung-Min (197-F-83) got two free throws with 1.6 seconds remaining on 4th quarter. But he missed his second shot. Also, Sonic Boom KT lost their best big man Song Young-Jin and Park Sang-Oh (196-F-81) who fouled out on 4th quarter. Finally, Sonic Boom KT lost at the first overtime.

'I thought that Cho could make both of his shots. Our players got focused at last moment. We'll see what happen on Moon's body tomorrow' Yoo Do-hoon, a coach of Inchon ET Land Elephants, concerned.

Moon got a confidence about this series. There was only one team in KBL history which went to the second round of playoffs overcoming the first match's loss

'If we win again at game 2, we hopefully close this series in Incheon' he expected.


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Panko, Lagun A.19.6 
 2. Teletovic, Caja L.16.8 
 3. Doellman, Assignia16.8 
 4. Davis, Cajasol15.9 
 5. Wright, CAI Z.15.0 
 6. Caner-Medley, Vale.14.4 
 7. Penney, Fuenlabra.14.2 
 8. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.14.0 
 9. Asselin, Assignia13.4 
 10. Ivanov, Lucentum13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaloyan IVANOV
  Lucentum
  (205-F-86)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Ivanov, Lucentum8.3 
 2. Ayon, Fuenlabrada8.1 
 3. Augustine, UCAM M.8.0 
 4. Teletovic, Caja L.7.7 
 5. Davis, Cajasol7.6 
 6. Freeland, Unicaja7.3 
 7. Williams, FIATC J.7.2 
 8. Caner-Medley, Vale.7.2 
 9. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.6.8 
 10. Ndong, FCB Regal6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Javier RODRIGUEZ
  Assignia.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Rodriguez, Assigni.5.9 
 2. Llull, Real Madrid4.5 
 3. Salgado, Lagun A.4.4 
 4. Rodriguez, Real M.4.1 
 5. Markovic, Valencia3.9 
 6. Dumas, B.de R.3.7 
 7. Granger, Asefa E.3.7 
 8. Huertas, FCB Regal3.7 
 9. Llompart, Lucentum3.6 
 10. Colom, Fuenlabrada3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Rudy FERNANDEZ
  Real M.
  (197-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Fernandez, Real M.2.4 
 2. Prigioni, Caja L.2.0 
 3. Vidal, Lagun A.1.6 
 4. Granger, Asefa E.1.5 
 5. Garbajosa, Unicaja1.4 
 6. Fischer, Gescrap BB1.4 
 7. Doellman, Assignia1.4 
 8. Ellis, Lucentum1.4 
 9. Barnes, Lucentum1.4 
 10. Eidson, FCB Regal1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 D''or FISCHER
  Gescrap BB
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Fischer, Gescrap BB2.0 
 2. Lasme, Blusens M.1.8 
 3. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.7 
 4. Begic, Real Madrid1.5 
 5. Toure, B.de R.1.4 
 6. Seraphin, Caja L.1.2 
 7. Asselin, Assignia1.1 
 8. Achara, Assignia.1.0 
 9. Barnes, Lucentum1.0 
 10. Simmons, Asefa E.1.0 


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. FCB Regal 19-4 
 2. Real Madrid 18-4 
 3. Caja Laboral 17-6 
 4. Unicaja 13-10 
 5. Lagun Aro GBC 13-10 
 6. Lucentum 13-10 
 7. Cajasol 12-11 
 8. Valencia 12-11 
 9. CAI Zaragoza 12-11 
 10. Assignia M. 12-11 
 11. Gescrap BB 11-12 
 12. Fuenlabrada 10-12 
 13. FIATC Joventut 10-13 
 14. GC 2014 8-15 
 15. Blusens M. 7-16 
 16. UCAM Murcia 7-16 
 17. Asefa Estudian. 6-16 
 18. B.de Rueda V. 5-17 


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Basketettan Round 20: Malbas beat Srbija in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in Basketettan. There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Malmo: Malbas (#1) and Srbija (#5). Malbas (20-1) won against visiting Srbija (11-9) 87-77. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 30-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Malbas had a 15-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Srbija helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Australian guard John Fitzgerald (193-G-84, college: Lindsey Wilson) who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds. Power forward Alexander Nilsson (-90) chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds. Malbas' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Kristoffer Gafor produced 22 points and 6 rebounds for the guests. Malbas have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position in South with 20-1 record. Srbija lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with nine games lost. Malbas are looking forward to face Hogsbo (#11) in Goteborg in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Srbija will play at home against Hoganas (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Taby. Top-ranked White Eagles faced second-ranked Taby Basket. Guests from Stockholm (19-0) defeated host Taby Basket (16-4) 85-79. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Taby Basket. American forward Joseph Taylor (203-85, college: Wyoming) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. Aleksandar Perisic contributed with 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Center David Hult (204-89) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for Taby Basket. Undefeated White Eagles have an impressive 19-game winning streak. They maintain first position in North with 19-0 record. Taby Basket at the other side keeps the second place with four games lost. White Eagles will play against Talje Knights (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Taby Basket will play against Jarva Devils (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Norrkoping BK (4-14) survived in overtime against Helsingborg (8-11) by four points 92-88 on Sunday night. The game took place in Helsingborg. But the guests from Norrkoping were better at the end. Worth to mention a great performance of Kevin Grant who helped to win the game recording 21 points. Manfred Bernborg responded with 26 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Norrkoping BK maintains twelfth position in South with 4-14 record. Loser Helsingborg keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Norrkoping BK will meet higher ranked Sanda Basket (#8) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Helsingborg will play against the league's second-placed Nassjo and will have a slim chance for a victory.
The game in Solna supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Hoganas (15-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Solna Branten (7-12). Hoganas smashed Solna Branten 82-56. The winners were led by Linas Savickas who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Solna Branten's coach Christer Sjogren gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Hoganas maintains third position in South with 15-5 record having six points less than leader Malbas. Solna Branten at the other side keeps the seventh place with 12 games lost. Hoganas' next round opponent will be Srbija (#5) in Malmo. Solna Branten will play on the road against Fryshuset in Stockholm.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Eskilstuna, where higher ranked Haga Haninge (10-10) lost to eleventh ranked Eskilstuna (4-16) in a road game 79-86 on Saturday. The best player for the winners was Robert Norstrom who scored 22 points and 6 rebounds. Haga Haninge's coach Ronnie Berglund rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Eskilstuna maintains eleventh position in North with 4-16 record. Loser Haga Haninge keeps the fifth place with ten games lost. Eskilstuna will face higher ranked KFUM Blackebergs (#6) in Vallingby in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Haga Haninge will play on the road against Akropol and will have a slim chance for a victory.

Rest of the games of round 20 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
In North Talje crushed Jarva Devils in a road game 78-57. Orongo were beaten by Uppsala KFUM at home 72-76. BG Lulea was destroyed by LF Future on the opponent's court 80-58. Akropol unfortunately lost to Blackeberg in a home game 90-95.
In South Helsingborg recorded a loss to Hoganas on the road 77-94. Nassjo crushed Eos on its own court 94-57. Sanda beat Fryshuset in Huskvarna 54-50. Brahe Basket won against Hogsbo at home 75-64.

Group North
Jarva Devils - Talje 57-78
There was no surprise when 10th ranked Jarva Devils (7-13) were crushed at home by eighth ranked Talje Knights (9-11) 78-57 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Talje Knights. Jarva Devils was better in second period 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Talje Knights forced 19 Jarva Devils turnovers. The best player for the winners was point guard Tobias Borg (183-93) who scored 33 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds. International forward Alexander Lindqvist (203-91) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Binyam Feghadu (195-89) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and guard Dilman Salih (187-80) added 4 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Talje Knights moved-up to seventh place in North, which they share with Orongo. Newly promoted Jarva Devils keep the tenth position with 13 games lost. Talje Knights will face league's leader White Eagles in Stockholm in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Jarva Devils will play at home against the league's second-placed Taby Basket (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Talje: T.Borg 33+7reb+3ast, A.Lindqvist 13+11reb, T.Johanson 7+1reb, J.Antonsson 6+4reb, M.Blazevic 4+5ast, W.Asplund 4+5reb
Jarva Devils: B.Feghadu 21+10reb+1ast, S.Tahir 9+2reb, M.Tebano 7+1reb, S.Hasan 6+4reb+2ast, S.Davies 4, D.Salih 4+9reb+4ast
gschID: 152932


Orongo - Uppsala KFUM 72-76
There was a small surprise in Sundsvall where ninth ranked KFUM Uppsala (8-12) defeated 7th ranked Orongo Dragons (9-11) 76-72 on Saturday. KFUM Uppsala have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain ninth position in North with 8-12 record. Orongo Dragons lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 11 games lost. KFUM Uppsala will face BG Lulea (#12) at home in the next round.
gschID: 152929


LF Future - BG Lulea 80-58
Very expected game when 12th ranked BG Lulea (1-18) was rolled over on the road by third ranked LF Future (14-6) 80-58 on Sunday. The game without a history. LF Future led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. LF Future forced 26 BG Lulea turnovers and outrebounded them 38-26 including 16 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Brian Curry (185-86) who scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Naturalized Iraqi forward Samir Ali Hussein (200-92) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. Four LF Future players scored in double figures. Forward Karl Ohrner (196-93) produced 10 points and 5 rebounds and forward Robin Sandberg (194-93) added 12 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. LF Future have a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted LF Future maintains third position in North with 14-6 record having seven points less than leader Malbas. BG Lulea lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth place with 18 games lost. LF Future's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Lulea .
Top scorers:
LF Future: B.Curry 15+8reb+3ast, F.Bjornsson 14+2reb+1ast, S.Ali Hussein 13+10reb+1ast, E.Lindback 12+3reb+2ast, R.Ryan 9+3reb+7ast, J.Eriksson 6+4reb
BG Lulea: R.Sandberg 12+1reb+1ast, K.Ohrner 10+5reb, F.Mosesson 7+2ast, G.Svensson 7+3reb+3ast, A.Isaksson 7+3reb, J.Stenberg 6+3reb
gschID: 152930


Akropol - Blackeberg 90-95
There was a small surprise in Spanga where sixth ranked KFUM Blackebergs (10-10) beat one of their biggest challengers Akropol (12-8) 95-90 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 27-20 charge, which allowed them to win the game. KFUM Blackebergs made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game. Akropol was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was center Nicklas Bergstrom (205-78) who scored 20 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Mikael Walden (198) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. Naturalized Serbian forward Dragan Damjanovic (203-88) produced 21 points and 6 rebounds and forward Richard Hartmann (201-89) added 21 points respectively for the hosts. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. KFUM Blackebergs moved-up to fifth place in North, which they share with Haga Haninge. Akropol lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with eight games lost. KFUM Blackebergs will face Eskilstuna (#11) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Akropol will play against Haga Haninge (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Blackeberg: N.Bergstrom 20+6reb, M.Walden 16+5reb+3ast, C.Carayol 14+2reb, E.Mouratidis 13+1reb+1ast, G.Panghulan 12+4reb+7ast, S.Mbemba 8+1reb+1ast
Akropol: D.Damjanovic 21+6reb+3ast, R.Hartmann 21+4reb+3ast, D.Kumbi 14+5reb+2ast, S.Mukooza 13+7reb+7ast, C.Sutherlin 10+2reb+2ast, M.Jonsson 4
gschID: 152931


Eskilstuna - Haga Haninge 86-79
We should mention about the upset which took place in Eskilstuna, where higher ranked Haga Haninge (10-10) lost to eleventh ranked Eskilstuna (4-16) in a road game 79-86 on Saturday. Haga Haninge was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Eskilstuna dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Haga Haninge's 38. Eskilstuna forced 24 Haga Haninge turnovers. The best player for the winners was forward Robert Norstrom (191-83) who scored 22 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Emmanuel Kabissikela (191-85) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Four Eskilstuna players scored in double figures. Guard Bjorn Johansson (190-83) produced 24 points and 7 rebounds and guard David Czernik (181-80) added 23 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Haga Haninge's coach Ronnie Berglund rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Eskilstuna maintains eleventh position in North with 4-16 record. Loser Haga Haninge keeps the fifth place with ten games lost. Eskilstuna will face higher ranked KFUM Blackebergs (#6) in Vallingby in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Haga Haninge will play on the road against Akropol and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Eskilstuna: O.Ogren 22, R.Norstrom 22+6reb, E.Kabissikela 14+7reb+1ast, E.Jonsson 11+6reb+2ast, N.Eriksson 7+6reb+1ast, S.Detjens 5+6reb+2ast
Haga Haninge: B.Johansson 24+7reb+1ast, D.Czernik 23+6reb, V.Olsson 8, J.Forsman 8+1reb, T.Oberg 7+3reb+3ast, E.Lundmark 5+6reb
gschID: 152927


Taby - Eagles 79-85
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Taby. Top-ranked White Eagles faced second-ranked Taby Basket. Guests from Stockholm (19-0) defeated host Taby Basket (16-4) 85-79. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Taby Basket. It looked good early as Taby Basket took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then White Eagles had a 26-24 second period charge getting the lead and Taby Basket was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 79-85. White Eagles made 20-of-25 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. American forward Joseph Taylor (203-85, college: Wyoming) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. Serbian guard Aleksandar Perisic (201-83) contributed with 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Center David Hult (204-89) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds and guard Mikael Banks (191-81) added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in the effort for Taby Basket. Five White Eagles and four Taby Basket players scored in double figures. White Eagles have an impressive 19-game winning streak. They maintain first position in North with 19-0 record. Taby Basket at the other side keeps the second place with four games lost. White Eagles will play against Talje Knights (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Taby Basket will play against Jarva Devils (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Eagles: A.Micovic 19, J.Taylor 19+14reb+5ast, A.Perisic 18+5reb+3ast, Y.Merzoug 13+2reb+2ast, J.Ghebremeskel 11+2reb+5ast, C.Koutras 3+1reb+1ast
Taby: D.Hult 23+11reb+1ast, M.Banks 20+7reb+7ast, J.Lundin 13+5reb+9ast, J.Ehlde 10+2reb, F.Nordin 8+6reb, C.Lindberg 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 152928


Group South
Hoganas - Helsingborg 94-77
Not a big story in a game when 6th ranked Helsingborg (8-11) was defeated on the road by third ranked Hoganas (15-5) 94-77 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Hoganas. Helsingborg was better in third quarter 23-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hoganas forced 21 Helsingborg turnovers. Helsingborg was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Lithuanian forward Nerijus Strazdauskas (198-84) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds. Lithuanian center Martynas Kuksta (203-89) chipped in 17 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). point guard Martin Fastberg (189-91) produced 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized Serbian forward Stefan Radojevic (196-91) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Helsingborg players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Hoganas maintains third position in South with 15-5 record having six points less than leader Malbas. Loser Helsingborg keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Hoganas will face Srbija (#5) in Malmo in the next round. Helsingborg will play at home against the league's second-placed Nassjo.
Top scorers:
Hoganas: N.Strazdauskas 26+12reb+3ast, M.Kuksta 17+4reb+1ast, D.Sutkevicius 13+3reb+1ast, D.Bankhead Bankhead 9+2reb+2ast, L.Kutra 8+5reb+2ast, L.Savickas 7+7reb+1ast
Helsingborg: M.Fastberg 17+5reb+4ast, A.Persson 13+3reb+1ast, J.Fastberg 12+6reb, S.Radojevic 12+7reb+1ast, M.Bernborg 10+2reb, J.Bengtson 7+5reb+1ast
gschID: 152939


Solna Branten - Hoganas 56-82
The game in Solna supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Hoganas (15-5) played at the court of 7th ranked Solna Branten (7-12). Hoganas smashed Solna Branten 82-56. The game was mostly controlled by Hoganas. Solna Branten was better in fourth quarter 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hoganas forced 19 Solna Branten turnovers and outrebounded them 48-21 including a 20-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Solna Branten's players. The winners were led by Lithuanian power forward Linas Savickas (197-79) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and Lithuanian guard Evaldas Juozapaitis (189-84) supported him with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Even 15 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) by swingman Patrik Horman (186-94) did not help to save the game for Solna Branten. Forward Daniel Johansson (197-95) added 5 points and 10 rebounds for the hosts. Solna Branten's coach Christer Sjogren gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Hoganas maintains third position in South with 15-5 record having six points less than leader Malbas. Solna Branten at the other side keeps the seventh place with 12 games lost. Hoganas' next round opponent will be Srbija (#5) in Malmo. Solna Branten will play on the road against Fryshuset in Stockholm.
Top scorers:
Hoganas: E.Juozapaitis 18+5reb+5ast, L.Savickas 17+10reb+3ast, D.Sutkevicius 10+7reb+2ast, N.Strazdauskas 9+8reb+5ast, M.Kuksta 8+5reb+3ast, L.Kutra 8+5reb+7ast
Solna Branten: P.Horman 15+2reb+1ast, S.Makkonen 7+2reb+4ast, T.Ljunggren 6+1reb+1ast, D.Johansson 5+10reb, K.Abdennabi 5, M.Andraos 5+2reb
gschID: 152935


Nassjo - Eos 94-57
Everything went according to plan when second ranked Nassjo (18-2) outleveled at home 8th ranked IK Eos (6-14) 94-57 on Sunday. The game without a history. Nassjo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to IK Eos' 28. Nassjo forced 19 IK Eos turnovers and outrebounded them 45-26 including a 30-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was naturalized Serbian power forward Srdjan Damjanovic (204-79) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds. Guard Christoffer Sillen (177-85) chipped in 17 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Five Nassjo players scored in double figures. Guard Adnan Karovic (187-88) produced 18 points and forward Taino Bendz (191-88) added 5 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Nassjo have an impressive 13-game winning streak. They maintain second position in South with 18-2 record having just three points less than leader Malbas. Loser IK Eos keep the eighth place with 14 games lost. Nassjo will face Helsingborg (#6) on the road in the next round. IK Eos will play against Brahe Basket in Huskvarna.
Top scorers:
Nassjo: S.Damjanovic 19+16reb+3ast, C.Sillen 17+3reb+1ast, F.Heikkinen 12+1reb+2ast, M.Liljeqvist 12+3reb+2ast, R.Boss 10+9reb+2ast, D.Frohm 6+2reb
Eos: A.Karovic 18+1reb+2ast, N.Gjorup 8+1reb+1ast, M.Bjarnemar 6+1reb, A.Medjedoub 6+4reb, T.Bendz 5+7reb+1ast, A.Buza 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 152936


Malbas - Srbija 87-77
The most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Malmo: Malbas (#1) and Srbija (#5). Malbas (20-1) won against visiting Srbija (11-9) 87-77. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 30-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Malbas had a 15-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Srbija helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Australian guard John Fitzgerald (193-84, college: Lindsey Wilson) who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds. Power forward Alexander Nilsson (-90) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Malbas' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Kristoffer Gafor produced 22 points and 6 rebounds and naturalized Serbian forward Nino Zurovac (202-80) added 18 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Malbas have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position in South with 20-1 record. Srbija lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with nine games lost. Malbas are looking forward to face Hogsbo (#11) in Goteborg in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Srbija will play at home against Hoganas (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Malbas: J.Fitzgerald 40+15reb+1ast, A.Nilsson 14+12reb+1ast, J.Magnusson 10+1reb+4ast, C.Almstrand 8+5reb+1ast, J.Kallman 5+1ast, K.Ferizi 4+4reb+3ast
Srbija: K.Gafor 22+6reb+2ast, N.Zurovac 18+7reb+3ast, T.Cedermarker 16+3reb+2ast, T.Petkovski 8+10reb, S.Svedas 8+1reb+2ast, R.Roslund 2+5reb+1ast
gschID: 152937


Helsingborg - Norrkoping BK 88-92 OT
Norrkoping BK (4-14) survived in overtime against Helsingborg (8-11) by four points 92-88 on Sunday night. The game took place in Helsingborg. But the guests from Norrkoping were better at the end. The guests trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 29-26 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 4-point victory in overtime. Norrkoping BK forced 24 Helsingborg turnovers. Strangely Helsingborg outrebounded Norrkoping BK 52-31 including a 36-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of Kevin Grant (-94) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and Ludwig Wissing (-93) who added 18 points during the contest. Forward Manfred Bernborg (194-91) responded with 26 points and 8 rebounds and forward Rikard Flink (200-83) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). Four Helsingborg players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Norrkoping BK maintains twelfth position in South with 4-14 record. Loser Helsingborg keeps the sixth place with 11 games lost. Norrkoping BK will meet higher ranked Sanda Basket (#8) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Helsingborg will play against the league's second-placed Nassjo and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Norrkoping BK: C.Musie 21+1reb+2ast, K.Grant 21+3reb+1ast, L.Wissing 18+4reb+2ast, N.Rydgren 9+3reb+2ast, A.Kadrispahic 9+3reb+1ast, R.Duric 5+5reb+4ast
Helsingborg: M.Bernborg 26+8reb+1ast, R.Flink 16+13reb+2ast, S.Radojevic 11+5reb+3ast, M.Fastberg 10+7reb+7ast, A.Persson 9+3reb+3ast, J.Christensen 8+4reb+5ast
gschID: 152938


Fryshuset - Sanda 50-54
We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Stockholm where 9th ranked Fryshuset (6-14) was defeated by tenth ranked Sanda Basket (6-14) 54-50 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 34-25 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Fryshuset outrebounded Sanda Basket 50-36 including 17 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was forward Johan Ganstrand (192-93) who had a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. Erik Gustafsson (-93) chipped in 10 points and 9 rebounds. Four Sanda Basket players scored in double figures. Arild Lindberg (-92) produced 4 points and 22 rebounds and center Erik Jakobsson (215-88) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Fryshuset's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Sanda Basket moved-up to eighth place in South, which they share with Eos and Fryshuset. Fryshuset lost third consecutive game. Sanda Basket will face Norrkoping BK (#12) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Sanda: J.Ganstrand 13+10reb+2ast, N.Holmstrom-Forster 11, D.Meraz 10+1reb, E.Gustafsson 10+9reb+2ast, M.Williams 5+9reb+2ast, J.Asherov 3+2reb+2ast
Fryshuset: A.Adersteg 14+4reb+1ast, E.Jakobsson 10+8reb+3ast, N.Dawit 8+4reb+1ast, R.Ghanem 6+4reb+2ast, A.Lindberg 4+22reb+2ast, M.Dilek 4+6reb
gschID: 152933


Brahe Basket - Hogsbo 75-64
No shocking result in a game in Huskvarna where fourth ranked Brahe Basket (13-8) defeated 11th ranked Hogsbo (5-15) 75-64 on Sunday. Hogsbo was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. They outrebounded Hogsbo 44-28 including 20 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was Jamaican center Hugh Robinson (202-83) who scored 13 points and 7 rebounds. Naturalized Nigerian forward Kevin Ukhagbe (198-85, college: Bethany, KS) chipped in 7 points and 9 rebounds. Brahe Basket's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Max Johansson produced 19 points and 7 rebounds and Robin Davidsson (-87) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Brahe Basket maintains fourth position in South with 13-8 record. Hogsbo lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the eleventh place with 15 games lost. Brahe Basket will face IK Eos (#9) in Lund in the next round where they are favorite. Hogsbo will play at home against the league's leader Malbas in Malmo.
Top scorers:
Brahe Basket: K.Gronhage 15+2reb, H.Robinson 13+7reb, G.Lindsten 10+3reb, C.Henriks 8+4reb+3ast, T.Yulman 7+5reb, K.Ukhagbe 7+9reb+2ast
Hogsbo: M.Johansson 19+7reb+1ast, J.Alberto Garcia 10+4reb+1ast, R.Davidsson 9+5reb+2ast, A.Brandt 8+1reb, L.Brehm 7+1reb+1ast, R.Isaksson 6+5reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - BasketEttan
Points Per Game
 Binyam FEGHADU
  Jarva D.
  (195-G-89)
  Avg: 29.2
 1. Feghadu, Jarva D.29.2 
 2. Fitzgerald, Malbas26.7 
 3. Bergstrom, Black.21.9 
 4. Vukovic, Helsingbo.20.1 
 5. Banks, Taby20.0 
 6. Ganstrand, Sanda19.4 
 7. Karovic, Eos19.2 
 8. Cedermarker, Srb.17.9 
 9. Thorangen, Sanda17.6 
 10. Johansson, Haga17.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andre NILSSON
  Orongo
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Nilsson, Orongo11.5 
 2. Petkovski, Srbija11.3 
 3. Rawlins, Up.11.1 
 4. Damjanovic, Nassjo11.0 
 5. Eliassson, Solna B.10.8 
 6. Hartmann, Akropol9.8 
 7. Vukovic, Helsingbo.9.7 
 8. Ali Hussein, LF Fu.9.5 
 9. Urban, Eskilstuna9.5 
 10. Robinson, Brahe B.9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Stefan NGUYEN
  Fryshuset
  (189-G-92)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Nguyen, Fryshuset5.3 
 2. Kovacek, Talje4.7 
 3. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.7 
 4. Lundin, Taby4.7 
 5. Ryan, LF Future4.6 
 6. Wazzi, Nassjo4.6 
 7. Kutra, Hoganas4.6 
 8. Hultman-Boye, Hag.4.3 
 9. Paulsson, Solna B.4.2 
 10. Panghulan, Black.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 John FITZGERALD
  Malbas
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Fitzgerald, Malbas4.2 
 2. Feghadu, Jarva D.3.2 
 3. Rawlins, Up.3.1 
 4. Strazdauskas, Hog.2.9 
 5. Wazzi, Nassjo2.9 
 6. Kutra, Hoganas2.7 
 7. Hultman-Boye, Hag.2.6 
 8. Dawit, Fryshuset2.5 
 9. Taylor, Eagles2.4 
 10. Svedas, Srbija2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Andre NILSSON
  Orongo
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Nilsson, Orongo2.6 
 2. Flink, Helsingborg2.1 
 3. Robinson, Brahe B.2.0 
 4. Rawlins, Up.1.8 
 5. Taylor, Eagles1.7 
 6. Bergstrom, Black.1.7 
 7. Femic, Eagles1.5 
 8. Urban, Eskilstuna1.3 
 9. Isaksson, BG Lulea1.2 
 10. Neffati, Norrkopi.1.2 


Standings - BasketEttan
Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Eagles 19-0 
 2. Taby 16-4 
 3. LF Future 14-6 
 4. Akropol 12-8 
 5. Haga Haninge 10-10 
 6. Blackeberg 10-10 
 7. Orongo 9-11 
 8. Talje 9-11 
 9. Uppsala KFUM 8-12 
 10. Jarva Devils 7-13 
 11. Eskilstuna 4-16 
 12. BG Lulea 1-18 
South
 1. Malbas 20-1 
 2. Nassjo 18-2 
 3. Hoganas 15-5 
 4. Brahe Basket 13-8 
 5. Srbija 11-9 
 6. Helsingborg 8-11 
 7. Solna Branten 7-12 
 8. Sanda 6-14 
 9. Eos 6-14 
 10. Fryshuset 6-14 
 11. Hogsbo 5-15 
 12. Norrkoping BK 4-14 


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Stats Leaders LNA
Points Per Game
 John SHARPER
  Boncourt
  (186-PG-84)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Sharper, Boncourt20.8 
 2. Abukar, Lugano T.20.3 
 3. Barnette, Geneve18.5 
 4. Burrows, Starwings18.0 
 5. Calasan, Boncourt17.9 
 6. Smith, Monthey17.8 
 7. Mitrovic, SAM M.17.1 
 8. Yates, Fribourg16.9 
 9. Jenkins, Starwings16.8 
 10. Efevberha, Lugan.16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Babacar TOURE
  Geneve Lions
  (205-F/C-85)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Toure, Geneve Lio.9.5 
 2. Johnson, Starwings9.3 
 3. Calasan, Boncourt9.1 
 4. Mitrovic, SAM M.8.7 
 5. Burrows, Starwings8.5 
 6. Knutson, BBC Nyon8.2 
 7. Bing, Geneve Lions8.2 
 8. Allen, Boncourt7.7 
 9. Barnette, Geneve7.7 
 10. Esterkamp, Fribo.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo7.0 
 2. Brown, Lugano T.6.0 
 3. Jenkins, Starwings5.4 
 4. Petkovic, Starw.5.3 
 5. Draughan, Lugano5.0 
 6. Bobetso, BBC Nyon4.1 
 7. Thomas, BBC Nyon4.0 
 8. Boylan, Monthey3.9 
 9. Buscaglia, Geneve3.9 
 10. Petkovic, Fribourg3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Miroslav PETKOVIC
  Starw.
  (183-G-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Petkovic, Starw.3.1 
 2. Boylan, Monthey2.7 
 3. Gugino, SAM M.2.6 
 4. Gibson, SAV Vacallo2.6 
 5. Efevberha, Lugano2.4 
 6. Mitrovic, SAM M.2.3 
 7. Thomas, BBC Nyon2.3 
 8. Smith, Monthey2.3 
 9. Jones, SAM M.2.3 
 10. Jenkins, Starwings2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Babacar TOURE
  Geneve Lions
  (205-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Toure, Geneve Lio.2.7 
 2. Johnson, Starwings2.1 
 3. Knutson, BBC Nyon1.7 
 4. Salaam, Monthey1.4 
 5. Matter, Starwings1.3 
 6. Molteni, SAM M.1.2 
 7. Roberson, Boncourt1.2 
 8. Dubas, Monthey1.0 
 9. Albrecht, Starw.1.0 
 10. Burrows, Starwings0.9 


Standings - LNA
LNA Standings
 1. Lugano Tigers 18-2 
 2. Monthey 15-5 
 3. Geneve Lions 15-6 
 4. Fribourg 14-6 
 5. SAV Vacallo 11-9 
 6. Starwings 8-13 
 7. Boncourt 6-15 
 8. SAM Massagno 3-17 
 9. BBC Nyon 2-19 


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Standings - TB2L
TB2L Standings
 1. Optimum TED 23-5 
 2. Selcuk Univ. 22-6 
 3. Gaziantep 20-8 
 4. Genc Telekom 20-8 
 5. Maliye Milli 20-8 
 6. Vestel 18-10 
 7. Final Genclik 18-10 
 8. Akhisar Bld 16-11 
 9. Darussafaka 12-16 
 10. Balikesir 12-16 
 11. Gelisim 12-16 
 12. Istanbul B.B. 12-16 
 13. Pertevniyal 11-17 
 14. Tire Gucu 11-17 
 15. Pamukkale 10-17 
 16. Baskent Genclik 10-18 
 17. Istanbulspor 9-19 
 18. Usak 9-19 
 19. Orman Genc 8-20 
 20. TED Istanbul 6-22 


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Chatman, Karsiyaka19.2 
 2. Gibson, Trabzonspor18.5 
 3. Grundy, Mersin18.1 
 4. Brown, Trabzonspor18.0 
 5. Fisher, Antalya17.6 
 6. Kemp, Besiktas17.5 
 7. Washington, Turk T.16.6 
 8. Karadeniz, Turk T.16.3 
 9. Erceg, Besiktas16.2 
 10. Toolson, Aliaga15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor11.5 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne9.9 
 3. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.8.6 
 4. Sanders, Hacett.8.5 
 5. Buckman, Tofas7.5 
 6. Wesson, Erdemir7.5 
 7. Sonkol, Aliaga7.3 
 8. McGhee, Bandirma.7.3 
 9. Dagli, Besiktas6.8 
 10. Grier, Mersin6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Baris ERMIS
  Banvit BK
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Ermis, Banvit BK6.7 
 2. Williams, Besiktas6.4 
 3. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.3 
 4. Tunceri, Anadolu5.1 
 5. Senturk, Erdemir5.1 
 6. Ratkovica, Aliaga4.9 
 7. Gordon, Galatasaray4.8 
 8. Washington, Turk T.4.6 
 9. Wright, Olin Edirne4.4 
 10. Steele, Tofas4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Vincent GRIER
  Mersin
  (195-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Grier, Mersin2.1 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka2.0 
 3. Scales, Mersin1.8 
 4. Robinson, Trabzons.1.8 
 5. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.8 
 6. Ermis, Banvit BK1.7 
 7. Kinsey, Anadolu1.6 
 8. Grundy, Mersin1.5 
 9. Vujacic, Anadolu1.5 
 10. Guler, Turk T.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Matthew BRYAN-AMANING
  Hacett.
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.3 
 2. Qvale, Aliaga1.1 
 3. Davis, Banvit BK1.0 
 4. Gist, Fener.Ulker0.9 
 5. Turkyilmaz, Banvit0.9 
 6. Barac, Anadolu Ef.0.9 
 7. Bayav, Karsiyaka0.9 
 8. Karaman, Karsiyaka0.8 
 9. McGhee, Bandirma.0.8 
 10. Peker, Fener.Ulker0.8 


TBL Round 21: Galatasaray keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The round was exceptionally exciting as three games ended with a tiny margin while 4 of them nedded overtime. There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Galatasaray as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Galatasaray edged 7th ranked Tofas in Istanbul 103-102 in double-overtime. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime then Tofas managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Galatasaray who were better in double-overtime eventually winning that period 11-11. They made 30-of-39 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Galatasaray forced 19 Tofas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by Tofas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Preston Shumpert (198-79, college: Syracuse) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and guard Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-84, college: Virginia Tech) chipped in 13 points, 11 assists and 6 steals. Galatasaray's coach Oktay Mahmudi used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was forward Bradley Buckman (203-84, college: Texas) with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 16 rebounds. Galatasaray (17-3) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Tofas at the other side keeps the seventh place with ten games lost. They share the position with Aliaga. Tofas will play next round against Hacettepe Univ. trying to get back on the winning streak. Galatasaray will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Banvit BK in Balikesir.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 21: bottom-ranked Bandirma Kir. won against Aliaga on the opponent's court 67-65. Erdemir unfortunately lost to Besiktas in a home game 64-81. Antalya was rolled over Olin Edirne on the road 72-91. Hacettepe Univ. was crushed by Anadolu Efes on its own court 52-75.


Aliaga - Bandirma Kir. 65-67

There was an upset when higher ranked Aliaga (11-10) was edged at home by bottom-ranked Bandirma Kir. (3-18) 67-65 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 36-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Bandirma Kir. made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Point guard Safak Edge (188-92) stepped up and scored 21 points and 5 assists for the winners and American center Gary McGhee (208-88, college: Pittsburgh) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American guard Ryan Toolson (193-85, college: Utah Valley) with 20 points and the other American import center Brian Qvale (210-88, college: Montana) scored 12 points. Aliaga's coach Burak Biyiktay rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Bandirma Kir. maintains sixteenth place with 3-18 record. Loser Aliaga keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Bandirma Kir. will face higher ranked Olin Edirne (#13) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Aliaga: R.Toolson 20+2ast, B.Qvale 12+4reb, U.Sonkol 11+4reb, B.Ratkovica 9+2ast, E.Goerkem 5+2reb, O.Haciyeva 4+2reb
Bandirma Kir.: S.Edge 21+2reb+5ast, G.McGhee 15+9reb, P.Miller 9+4reb+2ast, Y.Turna 8+2reb+1ast, T.Onen 6+3reb+1ast, C.Sekeroglu 4+2reb
gschID: 134444


Banvit BK - Trabzonspor 95-85 OT

Top scorers:
Trabzonspor: J.Gibson 38+3reb+6ast, U.Yenice 12+6reb, E.Kalve 11+4reb+1ast, M.Randle 10+9reb+1ast, P.Kaya 7+4reb+1ast, F.Kaan Uner 3+3ast
Banvit BK: K.Bajramovic 19+5reb+4ast, K.Simmons 19+4reb+1ast, C.Davis 16+8reb+1ast, S.Erdogan 14+6reb+2ast, L.Williams 8+5reb+1ast, B.Ermis 7+3reb+13ast
gschID: 134445


Mersin - Turk Telekom 95-85 OT

Top scorers:
Turk Telekom: A.Karadeniz 17+9reb+1ast, N.Yucel 16+12reb+3ast, A.Capin 14+1reb+5ast, D.Washington 14+7reb+2ast, M.Guler 10+3reb+4ast, K.Kambala 6+4reb
Mersin: A.Scales 27+6reb+3ast, O.Sneed 22+4reb+1ast, A.Grundy 20+5reb+5ast, J.Mays 10+1reb+1ast, M.Demir 6+4reb+3ast, C.Mutaf 4+1ast
gschID: 134446


Galatasaray - Tofas 103-102 2OT

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Galatasaray as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Galatasaray edged 7th ranked Tofas in Istanbul 103-102 in double-overtime. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime then Tofas managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Galatasaray who were better in double-overtime eventually winning that period 11-11. They made 30-of-39 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Galatasaray forced 19 Tofas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by Tofas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Preston Shumpert (198-79, college: Syracuse) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and guard Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-84, college: Virginia Tech) chipped in 13 points, 11 assists and 6 steals. Galatasaray's coach Oktay Mahmudi used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was forward Bradley Buckman (203-84, college: Texas) with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 16 rebounds and guard Taurean Green (185-85, college: Florida) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Five Galatasaray and four Tofas players scored in double figures. Galatasaray (17-3) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Tofas at the other side keeps the seventh place with ten games lost. They share the position with Aliaga. Tofas will play next round against Hacettepe Univ. trying to get back on the winning streak. Galatasaray will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Banvit BK in Balikesir.
Top scorers:
Tofas: B.Buckman 34+16reb+1ast, T.Green 20+2reb+10ast, A.Nichols 13+4reb, S.Geyik 13+4reb+2ast, K.Sipahi 10+2reb+2ast, U.Dokuyan 9+7reb+1ast
Galatasaray: P.Shumpert 23+4reb+2ast, J.Lukas Gordon 13+3reb+11ast, L.Andric 12+7reb, E.Arslan 11+2ast, J.Shipp 11+11reb+3ast, J.Lakovic 10+4ast
gschID: 134447


Erdemir - Besiktas 64-81

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Besiktas (16-5) defeated on the road 9th ranked Erdemir (10-11) 81-64 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Besiktas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. British forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) stepped up and scored 15 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and Puerto Rican guard Carlos Arroyo (188-79, college: FIU) chipped in 14 points and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was American forward KZell Wesson (201-77, college: La Salle) with 14 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import forward Antwayne Robinson (203-84, college: Temple, agency: Priority Sports) scored 12 points. Erdemir's coach rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Besiktas maintains fourth place with 16-5 record. Loser Erdemir keeps the ninth position with 11 games lost. Besiktas will face Aliaga (#7) at home in the next round. Erdemir will play against Turk Telekom in Ankara and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Erdemir: K.Wesson 14+9reb+3ast, A.Robinson 12+4reb+2ast, M.Akpinar 10+2reb, Y.Cankaya 9+2reb+5ast, G.Henderson 5+4reb, A.Erol 5+4reb+2ast
Besiktas: Z.Erceg 19+1reb, P.Mensah-Bonsu 15+9reb+1ast, C.Arroyo 14+2reb+6ast, E.Dagli 9+7reb, M.Kemp 9+1ast, S.Cetin 9+4reb+5ast
gschID: 134448


Fener.Ulker - Karsiyaka 102-99 OT

Top scorers:
Karsiyaka: M.Chatman 26+7reb+6ast, J.Stanojevic 22+3reb+6ast, E.Bayav 11+4reb+5ast, B.Batuk 11+4reb+2ast, G.Ikonic 9+1reb+3ast, A.Saruhan 7+4reb
Fener.Ulker: B.Bogdanovic 26+5reb+4ast, O.Onan 14+3reb+1ast, E.Preldzic 13+6reb+11ast, E.Atsur 13+2reb+1ast, M.Turkcan 12+7reb+1ast, O.Savas 9+5reb
gschID: 134441


Olin Edirne - Antalya 91-72

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourteenth ranked Olin Edirne and 13th ranked Antalya had identical 5-15 record. This time Olin Edirne used a home court advantage and rolled over the opponent from Antalya 91-72 on Wednesday night. The game without a history. Olin Edirne led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Olin Edirne outrebounded Antalya 35-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. Serbian center Vladimir Stimac (208-87, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and American point guard Chris Wright (185-89, college: Georgetown) chipped in 19 points and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Scottie Reynolds (188-87, college: Villanova) with 17 points and the other American import guard Corey Fisher (185-88, college: Villanova) scored 15 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Olin Edirne (6-15) moved-up to thirteenth place. Loser Antalya dropped to the fourteenth position with 16 games lost. Olin Edirne will face bottom-ranked Bandirma Kir. (#16) in Balikesir in the next round. Antalya will play at home against Banvit BK where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Antalya: S.Reynolds 17+3reb+2ast, C.Fisher 15+4reb+2ast, S.Jelovac 14+3reb, M.Mahmutoglu 8+4reb+1ast, G.Gen 5+2reb, R.Basak 5+1reb
Olin Edirne: V.Stimac 21+14reb+1ast, C.Wright 19+4reb+6ast, F.Videnov 13+3reb+3ast, P.Kocaoglu 8+1reb+1ast, R.Oz 8+1reb, D.Kamer 7
gschID: 134442


Hacettepe Univ. - Anadolu Efes 52-75

Everything went according to plan in Ankara where second ranked Anadolu Efes (17-4) outscored 11th ranked Hacettepe Univ. (7-14) 75-52 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Anadolu Efes led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Anadolu Efes forced 20 Hacettepe Univ. turnovers. Serbian power forward Dusko Savanovic (204-83, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up and scored 14 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-79) chipped in 11 points and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American-Georgian swingman Melvin Sanders (196-81, college: Oklahoma St., agency: FCM) with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 14 rebounds and the former international center Huseyin Besok (212-75) scored 9 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Anadolu Efes maintains second place with 17-4 record having just -1 point less than leader Galatasaray. Hacettepe Univ. lost their fifth game in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the twelfth position with 14 games lost. Anadolu Efes will face Karsiyaka (#6) on the road in the next round. Hacettepe Univ. will play against Tofas (#8) in Bursa.
Top scorers:
Hacettepe Univ.: M.Sanders 13+14reb+1ast, M.Bryan-Amaning 9+1reb+2ast, H.Besok 9+8reb+3ast, R.Murat Kaya 6+1reb+5ast, R.Marsh 5+1reb, D.Yannier 5+2reb+3ast
Anadolu Efes: D.Savanovic 14+6reb, S.Vujacic 14+4reb, K.Tunceri 11+3reb+4ast, T.Kinsey 9+1reb, E.Batista 8+2reb+1ast, D.Balbay 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 134443




TB2L Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Tyrone NELSON
  Akhisar Bld
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 21.3
 1. Nelson, Akhisar Bld21.3 
 2. Gray, Baskent19.8 
 3. Jackson, Balikesir19.5 
 4. Waller, Gaziantep19.4 
 5. Delic, Genc Telekom18.3 
 6. Pilgrim, Pamukkale18.1 
 7. Carter, Tire Gucu17.8 
 8. Harris, Usak16.4 
 9. Senol, Pamukkale16.0 
 10. Can, Pertevniyal15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Charles JACKSON
  Balikesir
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Jackson, Balikesir10.9 
 2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld10.6 
 3. Kolaric, Istanbul.10.3 
 4. Pilgrim, Pamukkale10.2 
 5. Gray, Baskent10.1 
 6. Can, Pertevniyal9.5 
 7. Ozseven, TED I.9.4 
 8. Taggart, TED I.9.1 
 9. Caudle, Pamukkale8.9 
 10. Barber, Istanbul.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Admir KAN
  Istanbulspor
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Kan, Istanbulspor5.9 
 2. Eryuz, Gaziantep5.8 
 3. Rizvanoglu, Genc T.5.5 
 4. Kavaklioglu, Optim.5.3 
 5. Sinanoglu, Final G.5.1 
 6. Eris, Istanbul B.B.5.0 
 7. Bayraktar, Tire G.4.8 
 8. Senol, Pamukkale4.6 
 9. Dobie, Selcuk Univ.4.5 
 10. Yikilmaz, Pertevn.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Matthew PILGRIM
  Pamukkale
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Pilgrim, Pamukkale2.7 
 2. Yavuklu, Basken.2.7 
 3. Nelson, Akhisar Bld2.1 
 4. Carter, Vestel2.0 
 5. Okkali, Final Genc.1.9 
 6. Ufuk Kacar, Selcuk1.7 
 7. Rizvanoglu, Genc T.1.7 
 8. Jackson, Balikesir1.7 
 9. Mentese, Gelisim1.7 
 10. Akcay, Balikesir1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Marquise GRAY
  Baskent .
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Gray, Baskent1.4 
 2. Washington, Gelisim1.3 
 3. Cevik, Selcuk Univ.1.3 
 4. Pilgrim, Pamukkale1.2 
 5. Brown, TED I.1.1 
 6. Casto, Optimum TED1.1 
 7. Carter, Vestel1.0 
 8. Caudle, Pamukkale1.0 
 9. Tekin, Pertevniyal1.0 
 10. Delic, Genc Telek.1.0 


Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Galatasaray 17-3 
 2. Anadolu Efes 17-4 
 3. Banvit BK 16-4 
 4. Besiktas 16-5 
 5. Fener.Ulker 15-6 
 6. Karsiyaka 12-9 
 7. Aliaga 11-10 
 8. Tofas 11-10 
 9. Erdemir