Eurobasket Daily News Report: 4/17/2012 1:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/17/2012 1:04:01 AM

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ABA

Jacksonville Giants win 2011-12 ABA Championship - by Gianni Pascucci

The American Basketball Association (ABA) crowned a new champion on Sunday, April 15th at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, FL. And the Champion is the Jacksonville Giants team, advanced to the Final Series after eliminating from the race the San Diego Sol.
Game 1 of the Finals needed of a typical ABA three-minute overtime, at the end the Giants overcame the South Carolina Warriors, 106-101, for the first time this season in three meetings.
Game 2 was played yesterday night, and Jacksonville won again, this time 100-91, claiming the 2012 ABA title. The overall consensus of those attending was that these were the best two teams in the ABA.
'If anyone ever questioned the quality of ABA basketball, there questions were answered this week in St. Pete,' stated ABA President/COO Dick Packer . 'From the first games with the North Dallas Vandals, San Diego Sol as well as the Warriors and Giants, fans got to see some exciting, fast-paced basketball played by highly skilled players. Every game was exciting. And when you add the All Star players who competed on Saturday, you know that the quality of talent extends far beyond the Final Four teams. Our hats to off to all the players who competed - and of course to Ron Sholes, Kevin Waters, the Giants organization for winning the ABA Championship and also to the South Carolina Warriors for their runner-up effort.'
Complete details, scores and stats for the tournament can be found on www.abalive.com

ABA Championship All-Tournament named - by Gianni Pascucci

Just after the final game, the American Basketball Association released the list of the All-Tournament team, as follows:

Jermaine Bell (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Indian Hills CC), Jacksonville Giants (named ABA Championship MVP)

Sherod Harris (5'10''-G-83, college: Brockport St.), Jacksonville Giants
Lamar Sanders (6'6''-F-84, college: Lamar), Jacksonville Giants
Marquise Gainous (6'9''-F-76, college: TCU), South Carolina Warriors
Tony White (6'0''-G-88, college: Charleston), South Carolina Warriors
Sheldon Pace (6'0''-G, college: SW Baptist), San Diego Sol
Will Haynes (6'8''-F-79, college: Manhattan), North Dallas Vandals

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Standings

Adriatic League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A			24-2
2. Cedevita			19-7
3. Partizan			19-7
4. Buducnost			18-8
5. Siroki WWin			15-11
6. Union Olimpija			14-12
7. Cibona			13-13
8. Radnicki K.			12-14
9. KK Zagreb CO			12-14
10. Crvena Zvezda			11-15
11. Krka			9-17
12. Hemofarm			7-19
13. Helios			7-19
14. Zlatorog			2-24

Regular Season: Round 20

Feb. 12: Crvena Zvezda - Helios 86-69
Feb. 10: Partizan - Siroki WWin 86-59
Feb. 11: Union Olimpija - Krka 79-81 OT
Feb. 11: KK Zagreb CO - Zlatorog 71-64
Feb. 22: Hemofarm - Cibona 55-98
Apr. 14: Maccabi T-A - Buducnost 0-20

Round 17

Feb. 8: Cedevita - Crvena Zvezda 96-91

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 28: Maccabi T-A - Buducnost
Apr. 28: Cedevita - Partizan

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ALBANIA

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

Group A
1. SK Tirana		14-0
2. Kamza Basket		11-3
3. Vllaznia Shk.		6-8
4. Teuta Durres		6-8
5. Flamurtari		5-9
6. U.A.T.		0-14
Group B
1. Apolonia		3-0
2. Partizani Tirana		2-2
3. Pogradeci		0-3

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 20: Kamza Basket - Vllaznia Shk.
Apr. 20: SK Tirana - Teuta Durres

The Semifinals are set - by Eurobasket News

The Semifinals are set in the country and the dates are announced. The winner of the Regular Season Tirana will face Teuta, while Kazma will face Vllaznia. The first games are scheduled for April 20th.

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ALGERIA

Standings

D1 Standings

1. GS Petroliers		21-2
2. CSMC		20-4
3. WA Boufarik		18-5
4. Trefle BB Blida		16-8
5. CRB Dar El-B.		15-9
6. Skikda		15-10
7. Arreridj		11-13
8. NAH Dey		11-13
9. O Batna		11-14
10. US Setif		10-14
11. MS Cherchell		9-14
12. USM Blida		8-15
13. CRB Temouch.		8-16
14. Sidi-bel-Abbes		8-16
15. Staoueli		7-15
16. Annaba		2-22

Regular Season: Round 25

Apr. 17: Annaba - Staoueli
Apr. 17: Skikda - WA Boufarik
Apr. 17: O Batna - GS Petroliers
Apr. 17: Sidi-bel-Abbes - NAH Dey
Apr. 17: Arreridj - CSMC
Apr. 17: MS Cherchell - CRB Temouch.
Apr. 17: US Setif - USM Blida
Apr. 17: Trefle BB Blida - CRB Dar El-B.

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ARGENTINA

La Union heads to Liga Americas Final Four - by Eurobasket News

La Union outplayed Cocodrilos 99-89 on Sunday and booked a spot for the Liga Americas Final Four (April 27-29). It was a do-or-die game for both teams. Thanks to this victory, La Union won the Group F with almost perfect 2-1 record. At the same time, Cocodrilos dropped to third place with 1-2 and failed to advance. Gregory Lewis (198-F-78, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Winthrop) paced his team to victory with 27 points and 5 rebounds. Ariel Pau (186-G-84) scored 19 points, Joe Smith (193-G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Al.-Huntsville) had 12 pts and 5 assists, and Gabriel Mikulas (200-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) helped with 12 points, plus 5 rebounds. Leandro Garcia Morales responded for Cocodrilos with 28 points. Jack Michael Martinez had 19 points and 11 rebounds in this defeat. Quarters: 25-20, 27-22, 21-19, 26-28.
In the second game, La Union handed 93-71 loss to Uniceub/BRB. Ariel Pau exploded with 26 points for the winners. Ruben Wolkowyski (207-C-73) secured a great help with 13 points and 12 rebs, while Lucas Perez (184-PG-87) added 12 pts and 6 assists. In Uniceub/BRB, Alex Ribeiro and Welington Dos Santos (5 as) scored 14 points each. Guilherme Giovannoni had double-double of 13 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 15-11, 32-15, 22-26, 24-19.
In Game One, La Union failed to Arecibo 68-72. Ike Diogu was a key player in victory with 23 points and 8 rebounds. David Cortes scored 13 pts, while Danilo Pinnock (8 as, 6 rebs) and Larry Ayuso netted 12 points each. La Union got 19 points from Anibal Marin (199-G/F-82) and 17 pts, plus 10 rebounds from Gregory Lewis. Quarters: 20-17, 22-20, 17-21, 9-14.

Emanuel Ginobili selected the top Argentinian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Emanuel Ginobili

#1. This week's number one is an experienced international guard Emanuel Ginobili (198-77, agency: Interperformances). He was the major contributor in a San Antonio Spurs' victory against the Utah Jazz (31-30) 114-104 in the NBA in Sunday night's game. Ginobili scored 23 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 28 minutes on the court. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 42-16 record this season. It's Ginobili's tenth year with the team. He has individually a very good year with high stats. Ginobili averages: 12.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.5apg, 2FGP: 57.4%(74-129), 3FGP: 42.9% and FT: 88.8% in the 28 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Argentinian and Italian. Despite Ginobili played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently a member of the Argentinian senior national team.

Luis Scola

#2. Second place goes to former international power forward Luis Scola (206-80), who plays in the NBA. Scola could not help the Houston Rockets (32-28) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance the Houston Rockets were defeated 112-105 on the road by the Phoenix Suns. Scola was the second best scorer with 21 points. He also added 6 rebounds. Scola is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Rockets' roster. This season Scola has very high stats. He averages: 16.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 49.8% and FT: 76.6%. Scola is another player who holds two passports: Argentinian and Spanish. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Scola played also for the Argentinian national team in 2010.

Carlos Delfino

#3. The Argentinian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Carlos Delfino (198-82). He led Milwaukee Bucks to an easy victory against the Detroit Pistons (22-38) 113-97 in the NBA on Friday night. Delfino scored 16 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 4 assists (was perfect 5-for-5 from the free throw line) in 29 minutes. The Milwaukee Bucks have 28-31 record this season. Delfino has relatively good stats this year: 9.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 44.5%, 3FGP: 36.3% and FT: 79.2% in the 52 games. He has both Argentinian and Italian nationalities. Despite Delfino played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently a member of the Argentinian senior national team.

Andres Nocioni

#4. Forward Andres Nocioni (199-79) led Caja Laboral to a 1-point victory over the closely-ranked Real Madrid (22-7) 67-66 in the Spanish ACB in Monday night's game. Nocioni was MVP of the game. He recorded 12 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Caja Laboral Vitoria (20-9) is placed third in the ACB. Nocioni's overall stats this season are: 9.3ppg and 4.0rpg. He also holds two passports: Italian and Argentinian. Despite Nocioni played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

Pablo Prigioni

#5. International guard Pablo Prigioni (191-77) is a teammate of previously mentioned Andres Nocioni. But that was another game of his team in Spanish ACB which we would like to mention. Prigioni was not able to help Caja Laboral (20-9) in their game against Assignia Manresa (14-15). He scored 6 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 30 minutes. Caja Laboral was edged 72-70 in Manresa by the lower-ranked (#9) Assignia. Prigioni is currently first on the league's list of most steals with 2.0spg. This year he also averages: 6.7ppg, 3.4rpg and 3.4apg in the 29 games. Similarly like Nocioni and Delfino above Prigioni holds both Italian and Argentinian passports. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Prigioni is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

Diego Garcia

#6. Guard Diego Garcia (190-79), who plays in the Spanish ACB was not able to secure a victory for Blancos de Rueda (7-22) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his very good performance the bottom-ranked Blancos de Rueda was defeated 89-77 in Bilbao by the much higher-ranked Gescrap BB (#4). Garcia was the top scorer with 15 points. He also added 5 boards, passed 5 assists and added 4 steals. This season Garcia has relatively solid stats: 11.6ppg, 2.1rpg and 2.0apg. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Garcia is also a former international player as he played for the Argentinian senior team three years ago.

Bernardo Musso

#7. Former international guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) led Napoli to a 2-point victory over the second-ranked Trento (23-11) 81-79 in the Italian Nazionale A (third division) in Sunday night's game. He was the best player in that game. Musso recorded 22 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in 32 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Division South-West. BPMed Basket Napoli (27-7) is placed first in South-West Division. The Regular Season already ended. It's Musso's first season with the team. Musso is currently first on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best passers (first place). He has very impressive stats this year: 19.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 4.2apg and 2.7spg in the 34 games. Despite Musso played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

Nicolas Richotti

#8. Point guard Nicolas Richotti (181-86), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) couldn't help Canarias (24-8) in their last game on Friday. Despite Richotti's very good performance the league leader Canarias was defeated 92-84 on the opponent's court by the much lower-ranked Palencia_Baloncesto (#11). He was the top scorer with 22 points. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Richotti has reliable stats this season: 12.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.2apg and 1.1spg. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Richotti is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

Demian Filloy

#9. Former international forward Demian Filloy (198-82, also represented by Interperformances) led Trenkwalder RE to a victory against the seventh-ranked Fileni BPA (13-12) 78-65 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) on Sunday night. He scored 15 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 24 minutes. Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia (18-7) is placed first in the Lega2. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This year Filloy's overall stats are: 9.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.2apg and 1.5spg in the 24 games. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Filloy is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

Antonio Porta

   #10. Guard Antonio Porta (187-83, agency: Players Group) contributed to an overtime Tezenis Verona's victory against the closely-ranked Assi Ostuni (10-15) 71-70 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) in Sunday night's game. He scored 14 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Tezenis Verona (12-13) is placed ninth in the Lega2. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Porta is currently third on the list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.6apg and 2.2spg. Despite Porta played previously for the Italian national team, he is also a former international player as four years ago he still played for the Argentinian senior national team.

   #11. Former international guard Federico Van Lacke (191-80) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked CAI Zaragoza crushing them 85-63 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Van Lacke scored 10 points and added 4 assists in 27 minutes. This year his total stats are: 8.1ppg, 2.6rpg and 2.6apg in the 29 games. Despite Van Lacke played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

   #12. Former international forward Juan Ignacio Jasen (196-85) contributed to an UCAM Murcia's victory against the 11th-ranked Unicaja Malaga 86-77 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. Jasen scored 10 points. He has averaged so far 3.8ppg and 2.1rpg. Despite Jasen played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

   #13. Former international swingman Bruno Cerella (194-86, another player represented by Players Group) contributed to a Banca Tercas' victory against the closely-ranked Otto Caserta 86-78 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Cerella recorded 10 points and had 3 steals in 29 minutes. He has averaged so far 9.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.2apg and 1.2spg in the 27 games. Despite Cerella played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

   #14. International guard Hernan Jasen (199-78) helped Cajasol win their game against the 16th-ranked Blusens Monbus crushing them 79-59 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. Jasen scored 7 points. He has averaged so far 5.9ppg and 3.3rpg. Despite Jasen played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

   #15. Former international guard Javier Bulfoni (192-76) couldn't help Blusens Monbus in their game against Gescrap BB in the Spanish ACB. Bulfoni recorded 9 points in 24 minutes. His team lost 71-79. He has averaged so far 7.6ppg and 1.3rpg in the 28 games. Despite Bulfoni played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Argentinian national team roster.

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ASEAN LEAGUE

Steve Thomas claims ASEAN League weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

Experienced American Steve Thomas (204-C/F-81) had an amazing evening in the last round for Satria Muda and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 16.
The 30-year old had a double-double of 17 points and twenty two rebounds, while his team crushed KL Dragons (#4, 7-9) with 18-point margin 98-80. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Satria Muda maintains the 3rd position in ASEAN League . Satria Muda 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 8-9 record. Thomas just recently signed at Satria Muda, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Middle Tennessee State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Thomas. Thomas is in league's top in points (3rd best: 16.8ppg) and averages solid 1.3bpg and 55.0% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American forward Jonathan Smith (206-F-82) of KL Dragons. Smith impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as KL Dragons lost that game 80-98 to slightly higher-ranked Satria Muda (#3, 8-9). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. KL Dragons still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-9 record. Smith is one of the most experienced players at KL Dragons and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.5ppg (#8). He also registered 11.0 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Nick Fazekas (211-F-85) of second-ranked Petron Blaze. Fazekas scored 16 points and grabbed sixteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Petron Blaze, leading his team to a 93-78 easy win against #1 ranked Philip.Patriots. Petron Blaze needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 4 lost games. Fazekas has a very solid season. In 2 games in ASEAN League he scored 21.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Stanley Pringle (184-PG-87) of Satria Muda - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79) of Philip.Patriots - 30 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Duke Crews (203-F-88) of Petron Blaze - 23 points and 5 rebounds
7. Chris Alexander (216-C-80) of Philip.Patriots - 16 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Christopher Garnett (211-C-80) of Thailand S. - 22 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Evan Brock (204-F-84) of Satria Muda - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Leo Avenido (186-G-78) of Petron Blaze - 23 points and 4 rebounds

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

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AUSTRALIA

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 4

BIG V

Apr. 14: Corio Bay - Diamond V.E. 93-80
Apr. 14: Eltham W. - Melbourne 87-74
Apr. 14: Sherbrooke S. - Hume City 62-76
Apr. 14: Bulleen B. - Ringwood H. 60-75
Apr. 15: Waverley F. - Bulleen B. 103-66

Central ABL

Apr. 14: Forestville E. - Sturt S. 97-84
Apr. 14: S.Adelaide P. - South.Tigers 91-108
Apr. 14: C.District L. - Eastern M. 80-61
Apr. 14: W.Adelaide B. - Woodville W. 73-66
Apr. 14: N.Adelaide R. - Norwood F. 105-60

SEABL

Apr. 14: Knox R. - Sandringham S. 91-84
Apr. 14: NW Tasmania - Geelong S. 89-98
Apr. 12: Dandenong - Knox R. 87-84
Apr. 14: Kilsyth C. - Nunawading S. 84-99
Apr. 13: Ballarat M. - Bendigo B. 84-70
Apr. 15: Bendigo B. - Albury W.B. 76-85
Apr. 13: Hobart C. - Geelong S. 74-93
Apr. 14: Frankston B. - Ballarat M. 73-61
Apr. 13: Canberra G. - Mt Gambier 71-82
Apr. 14: Brisbane S. - Mt Gambier 67-55
Apr. 15: Nunawading S. - Frankston B. 56-76

WARATAH

Apr. 14: Parramatta W. - Illawarra H. 88-80
Apr. 15: Bankstown B. - Norths Bears 82-76
Apr. 14: Colonial Hotel - Manly Warr. 80-72
Apr. 15: Hills H. - Manly Warr. 65-97
Apr. 14: Maitland M. - Sydney C. 65-82
Apr. 14: Hills H. - Norths Bears 62-93
Apr. 14: Sutherland S. - Cent.Coast C. 62-90

Regular Season: Round 5

BIG V

Apr. 21: Hume City - Bulleen B.
Apr. 21: Ringwood H. - Eltham W.
Apr. 21: Melbourne - Sherbrooke S.
Apr. 22: Corio Bay - Waverley F.
Apr. 22: Diamond V.E. - Ringwood H.

Central ABL

Apr. 21: Eastern M. - N.Adelaide R.
Apr. 21: S.Adelaide P. - W.Adelaide B.
Apr. 21: Norwood F. - South.Tigers
Apr. 21: Sturt S. - C.District L.
Apr. 21: Woodville W. - Forestville E.

SEABL

Apr. 20: Hobart C. - Kilsyth C.
Apr. 20: Mt Gambier - Sandringham S.
Apr. 20: Albury W.B. - Dandenong
Apr. 21: Brisbane S. - Knox R.
Apr. 21: Dandenong - Bendigo B.
Apr. 21: Frankston B. - Geelong S.
Apr. 21: NW Tasmania - Kilsyth C.
Apr. 21: Ballarat M. - Canberra G.
Apr. 21: Nunawading S. - Albury W.B.
Apr. 22: Sandringham S. - Canberra G.

WARATAH

Apr. 20: Parramatta W. - Hills H.
Apr. 21: Colonial Hotel - Sutherland S.
Apr. 21: Hills H. - Bankstown B.
Apr. 21: Manly Warr. - Sydney C.
Apr. 21: Illawarra H. - Maitland M.
Apr. 21: Newcastle H. - Parramatta W.
Apr. 21: Norths Bears - Cent.Coast C.
Apr. 22: Illawarra H. - Sutherland S.
Apr. 22: Cent.Coast C. - Newcastle H.

David Andersen selected the top Australian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

David Andersen

#1. This week's number one is former international center David Andersen (212-80), who plays in the Italian SerieA. He could not help Montepaschi Siena (19-7) in their last game. Despite Andersen's very good performance the league leader Montepaschi Siena was edged in an overtime 95-94 on the road by the second-ranked Bennet Cantu. He scored 15 points in 28 minutes on the court. Andersen is currently ninth on the league's list of top scorers with 15.5ppg. He also averaged so far 5.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 51.5%, 3FGP: 45.0% and FT: 85.1% in the 24 games he played so far. Andersen played for the Australian senior national team two years ago.

Patrick Mills

#2. Second place goes to former international point guard Patrick Mills (183-88, college: St.Mary's, CA). He was not able to help the San Antonio Spurs (42-16) in their game against the Utah Jazz (31-30) in the NBA. Mills recorded 9 points and added 4 assists. But the San Antonio Spurs were defeated 91-84 in Salt Lake City by the Utah Jazz. Mills has relatively good stats this season: 8.8ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0apg, 3FGP: 42.9%. He played for the Australian national team in 2009.

Joe Ingles

#3. The Australian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international swingman Joe Ingles (203-87, agency: Priority Sports). Ingles contributed to an easy victory against the tenth-ranked CAI Zaragoza (14-15) 68-49 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. He recorded 7 points and added 3 passes in 19 minutes. Regal FC Barcelona (24-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. This year Ingles averages: 5.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.0apg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3FGP: 41.7% and FT: 76.3% in the 22 games. He is also a member of the Australian senior national team.

Brad Newley

#4. Forward Brad Newley (201-85, agency: Beo Basket) was the major contributor in a Valencia Basket's victory against the closely-ranked Lietuvos rytas (4-2) 80-70 in the Eurocup in Saturday night's game. Newley recorded 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group I. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first. So far his team won all six games in the Semi-Finals. Newley's overall stats this season are: 4.8ppg and 2.4rpg. He is also Australian national team player.

Nathan Jawai

#5. Former international power forward Nathan Jawai (208-86, college: Midland CC) led Unics Kazan to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Spartak Primorie Vladivostok (7-9) 81-64 in the Russian PBL last Friday. Jawai scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in a mere 16 minutes. Unics Kazan (6-10) is placed eighth in the PBL. They ended the series of six consecutive loses. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Jawai's first season with the team. This year his overall stats are: 8.0ppg and 4.2rpg in the 11 games. Jawai used to play for the Australian national team three years ago.

Matt Nielsen

#6. An experienced power forward Matt Nielsen (208-78) contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked Unics Kazan (6-10) 75-58 in the Russian PBL on Monday night. He recorded 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. BC Khimky Moscow Region (15-2) is placed first in the PBL. It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Nielsen's total stats this season are: 3.5ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.8apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Australian National Team roster.

Ater Majok

#7. Former international forward Ater Majok (208-87, college: Connecticut) led Nitra to a 2-point victory over the closely-ranked Svit (17-15) 72-70 in the Slovakian Extraliga in Friday night's game. Majok was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 13 rebounds. Majok also added 3 assists and 3 blocks in 37 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his second season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BK SPU Bemaco Nitra (21-11) is placed third in the Extraliga. Majok is ranked fifth on the list of the best rebounders in the league and also on the list of best blockers (second place). He has very reliable stats this year: 11.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.4apg and 2.7bpg in the 40 games. Majok used to play for the Australian national team two years ago.

Daniel Kickert

#8. Center Daniel Kickert (208-83, college: St.Mary's, CA), who plays in the Polish PLK was not able to secure a victory for PGE Turow (2-8) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his very good performance the sixth-placed PGE Turow was edged 79-76 at home by the higher-ranked Anwil (#4) in the Group A. Kickert was the top scorer with 16 points. There are only three games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be important. Kickert has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 15.1ppg and 4.1rpg. Despite Kickert played previously for the Dutch national team, he is currently in the Australian national team roster.

John Fitzgerald

#9. International guard John Fitzgerald (193-84, college: Lindsey Wilson), who plays in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) couldn't help Malbas (21-1) in their last game. Despite Fitzgerald's very good performance Malbas was badly defeated 102-84 on their home court in Malmo by the second-ranked Nassjo in the South group. He had a double-double by scoring 32 points and getting 12 rebounds. Fitzgerald also added 4 assists and 5 steals in 37 minutes. Fitzgerald is currently second on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). He has very impressive stats this year: 26.3ppg, 9.3rpg, 4.7apg and 4.3spg in the 23 games. Despite Fitzgerald played previously for the Dutch national team, he is currently in the Australian national team roster.

David Barlow

   #10. Forward David Barlow (205-83, college: Metro St.) led UCAM Murcia to a victory against the 11th-ranked Unicaja Malaga (14-15) 86-77 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Barlow scored 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. UCAM Murcia (24-6) is placed in the ACB. Barlow's total stats this season are: 7.9ppg and 4.8rpg. Despite he played previously for the Dutch national team, Barlow is also an international player who is currently on the senior Australian National Team roster.

   #11. Former international guard Steven Markovic (190-85) contributed to a Radnicki Kragujevac's victory against the eighth-ranked Hemofarm 91-80 in the Serbian A League last Wednesday. He scored 7 points and added 6 passes in 23 minutes. This year Markovic's total stats are: 7.7ppg, 1.2rpg and 4.2apg in the six games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Markovic is currently in the Australian national team roster.

   #12. Former U21 international forward Blagoj Janev (203-84, college: New Hampshire) helped Thor Thorl win their game against the closely-ranked KR 100-86 in the Icelandic Express League on Sunday night. He scored 18 points and had 3 steals. This season Janev has very high stats. He averages: 15.3ppg, 6.1rpg and 1.1apg. Despite Janev played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, he is currently in the Australian U21 national team roster.

   #13. Former U18 international guard Mark Dickel (188-76, college: UNLV), who plays in the New Zealand NBL couldn't help Otago OceanaGold Nuggets (3-5) in their last game. Despite Dickel's very good performance Otago OceanaGold Nuggets were crushed 99-76 in Tamatea by the leading Bay Hawks. He recorded 15 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals in 40 minutes. Dickel is ranked third on the list of the best passers in the league with 6.4apg. He also averaged so far 14.4ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.9spg in the eight games. Despite Dickel played previously for the New Zealand national team, he is currently in the Australian U18 national team roster.

   #14. International center Adrien Sturt (209-86), who plays in the British BBL couldn't help Milton Keynes Lions (8-20) in their last game on Friday. Despite Sturt's very good performance Milton Keynes Lions was badly defeated 95-78 in Chester by the higher-ranked Cheshire Jets (#7). He scored 15 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Sturt has averaged so far 9.3ppg, 5.7rpg and 1.4apg. Despite he played previously for the New Zealand national team, Sturt is currently in the Australian national team roster.

   #15. International center Aron Baynes (208-86, college: Washington St.) helped Ikaros win their game against the league outsider Marousi crushing them 104-79 in the Greek A1 on Wednesday night. He scored 8 points and blocked 2 shots in only 8 minutes. Baynes is currently first on the list of best rebounders with 8.7rpg. This year his other stats are: 13.6ppg in the 23 games. Despite Baynes played previously for the New Zealand national team, he is currently in the Australian national team roster.

Ballarat Holden Miners bring in Timothy Coenraad - by Eurobasket News

Ballarat Holden Miners bring in Timothy Coenraad (201-F/G-85, college: Nova SE) for the rest of the season. The Australian Swingman moves from Wollongong Hawks. Coenraad arrived in Ballarat today and is expected to play this Saturday night against Canberra at the WIN Minerdome.
In 2009-2010 he started for Wollongong Hawks (NBL) and after 34 games averaged 7.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 76.2%. In 2010 joined Mackay Meteors (ABA, starting five) and had 21.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 35%, FT: 83.8%. The season 2010-2011 continued for Wollongong Hawks (NBL) and after 28 games showed 8.2ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 87.9%.
Over the last few years Timothy Coenraad became Australian NBL Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Australian NBL Finals -10, Australian ABA League QBL Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Australian ABA League QBL Finalist -10, Australian ABA League QBL Regular Season Champion -11 and Australian ABA League QBL Champion -11.
In his top game for the Hawks he recorded 22 points. That time his side lost to Crocodiles 81:81.

SEABL: Round 4 results - by Eurobasket News

THURSDAY 12th APRIL

DANDENONG 87 (Harms 23, Lewis 21)

def

KNOX 84 (Philip 20, Massingale 19)

With 18pts from imports Lewis and Montreal in the first quarter the Rangers took a 24-13 lead. Knox however never gave up and fought back to grab the lead late in the last quarter behind Strong and Philip. But the Rangers stuck to their game plan and grabbed the lead back and held on to secure the much needed victory.

MVP Tony Lewis (Dandenong)

FRIDAY 13th APRIL

HOBART 74 (Polk 26, Armstrong 18)

Lost to

GEELONG 93 (Barrett 25, Wilson 25)

The Chargers out rebounded the Supercats but shot a disappointing 22% from outside the three point arc, and committed nearly 16 shooting fouls, allowing Geelong to score 20pts from free throws. Veteran Sam Armstrong was the only backcourt offensive threat for the Chargers.

MVP Theron Wilson (195-F-87, college: Bradley) (Geelong)

BALLARAT 84 (Scoines 27, Bruce 16)

def

BENDIGO 70 (Yearby 23, Garlepp 17)

The addition of Tom Garlepp didnt work out for the Braves this week, as they lacked direction and had no team chemistry. Ballarat took full advantage of the Braves woes and led for the entire game thanks largely to the efforts of Jared Scoines.

MVP Jared Scoines (Ballarat)

CANBERRA 71 (Miller 19, Lacey 17)

Lost to

MT GAMBIER 82 (Burdon 22, Davis 18)

Erik Burdon once again produced a stellar individual performance, this time guiding his team to their first victory of the year. Mt Gambier committed only 6 fouls for the entire game and out rebounded the Gunners by 15.

MVP Erik Burdon (Mt Gambier)

SATURDAY 14th APRIL

BRISBANE 67 (George 19, Kenny 12)

def

MT GAMBIER 55 (Burdon 19, Warbout 13)

Pioneers struggled offensively, shooting 32% and committed far too many turnovers. Daniel George (209-F/C-82, college: Seton Hill) once again produced a solid game for the Spartans with 19pts, 9rebs and 2ass .

MVP Daniel George (Brisbane)

NW TASMANIA 89 (Gary 27, Gaff 20

Lost to

GEELONG 98 (Barrett 39, Wilson 27)

Supercats Imports Barrett and Wilson once again got the team over the line combining for 66pts and 16rebs.

MVP Kimmani Barrett (198-F-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: La Salle) (Geelong)

FRANKSTON 73 (Long 16, Chapman 14, Henry 14)

def

BALLARAT 61 (Scoines 12, McCallum 11, White 11)

With the adrenaline of last nights victory over Bendigo, the Miners entered the game full of confidence, but came up against an equally fired up Frankston line-up. The Blues behind great work from Chapman, Long and Henry got out to a 39-29 half time lead and held on to secure the win despite a comeback early in the third by Ballarat.

MVP Chuck Long (Frankston)

KILSYTH 84 (Blair 19, Malvik 17)

Lost to

NUNAWADING 99 (Cameron 24, McDonald 21)

Nunawading shot out the gates from the tip off and held the lead for a remarkable 39mins and 11secs. The Spectres held a 28pt lead midway through the second half ending any chance of a Kilsyth victory.

MVP Shane McDonald (Nunawading)

KNOX 91 (Massingale 40, Hill 21

def

SANDRINGHAM 84 (Muhlbach 21, Cooperwood 21)

Sandringham did a great job in the first half, holding Raiders CJ Massingale to 7pts and held a 45-37 lead. But the Sabres were disappointing in the third term, scoring 12pts for the term and allowing CJ to score 19pts on his own to give the Raiders a 70-57 advantage with a quarter to play. The Sabres got back to within 1pt mid way but lost touch after import Corey Cooperwood fouled out with 2mins remaining.

MVP CJ Massingale (Knox)

SUNDAY 15th APRIL

NUNAWADING 56 (Cameron 19, McDonald 11)

Lost to

FRANKSTON 76 (Henry 23, Chapman 14)

Both teams had tough victories the previous night, but the Blues looked the fresher of the two. Nunawading were terrible in the second quarter and allowed the Blues to establish a comfortable 42-26 lead at the half. Frankston didnt slow down and were able to increase the deficit to 20pts

MVP Calvin Henry (198-F-86, college: Mercer) (Frankston)

BENDIGO 76 (Horton 33, Hogan 12)

Lost to

ALBURY/WODONGA 85 (Ntumba 26, Ferguson 18)

After a disappointing result on Friday the Braves looked to score the much needed home victory, but ran out of legs in the second half. The Braves led 48-47 at the half but were outscored by 5 in the third term and were unable to shut down the Bandits on defence as imports Ferguson and Ntumba dominated at both ends of the floor.

MVP Mohammed Ntumba (Albury/Wodonga)
Courtesy of: http://www.seabl.com.au

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AUSTRIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.0
2. Drenovac, Arkadia	23.0
3. Reed, Oberwart	19.9
4. Shavies, Furstenf.	18.3
5. Shaw, Oberwart	18.3
6. Fears, Kapfenberg	17.2
7. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.	17.1
8. Grum, UBSC G.	17.1
9. Curry, Gmunden	16.8
10. Djuric, Gussing	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Joe WERNER
  Wels
  (201-C-84)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Werner, Wels	9.6
2. Gordon, Kapfenberg	8.6
3. Reed, Oberwart	7.8
4. Oppland, Gmunden	7.6
5. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	7.2
6. Ware, Furstenfeld	7.1
7. Moric, UBSC G.	7.1
8. Robinson, Furstenf.	7.0
9. Nelson, Kapfenberg	6.9
10. Lamesic, Wels	6.8

Assists Per Game

Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Danek, Arkadia	6.9
2. Fears, Kapfenberg	6.4
3. Shavies, Furstenf.	5.9
4. Schreiner, Kapfe.	5.3
5. Klepeisz, Gussing	5.0
6. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.8
7. Curry, Gmunden	4.6
8. Schaal, UBSC G.	4.4
9. Lanegger, Klostern.	3.9
10. Grum, UBSC G.	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Fears, Kapfenberg	2.5
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.4
3. Pryor, Wels	2.0
4. Toroman, BC Vienna	1.9
5. Schreiner, Kapfe.	1.9
6. Brown, Wels	1.8
7. O''Neal, Furstenfeld	1.5
8. Mayer, Gmunden	1.5
9. Danek, Arkadia	1.4
10. Milosevic, St.Pol.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Gary WARE
  Furstenfeld
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 1.1

1. Ware, Furstenfeld	1.1
2. Scott, Gussing	0.9
3. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.8
4. Kohlmaier, Wels	0.7
5. Arnold, Gmunden	0.7
6. Brown, Wels	0.7
7. Koch, Gussing	0.7
8. Rizvic, Oberwart	0.6
9. Moric, UBSC G.	0.6
10. Nelson, Kapfenbe.	0.5

Benjamin Ortner selected the top Austrian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Benjamin Ortner

#1. This week's number one is former international power forward Benjamin Ortner (206-83, college: Metro St.). He led Benetton Treviso to a victory against the seventh-ranked CS Bologna (15-12) 63-59 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Ortner scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 20 minutes on the court. Benetton Treviso (12-15) is placed 11th in the SerieA. Ortner has relatively good stats this year: 11.1ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 64.6%(84-130) and FT: 65.6% in the 17 games he played so far. He played for the Austrian senior national team five years ago.

Anton Maresch

#2. Second place goes to an international guard Anton Maresch (192-91, agency: Two Points). Maresch led River Andorra to a victory over the league outsider Gandia Basquet (5-17) crushing them 87-66 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Maresch scored 20 points. B.C. River Andorra (20-10) is placed in the LEB Silver. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Maresch's first season with the team. This year he averages: 7.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2FGP: 51.1%, 3FGP: 37.8% and FT: 73.0%. Maresch is in the roster of the Austrian senior national team.

Jason Detrick

#3. The Austrian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Jason Detrick (198-80, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma). He was the main contributor in a Lleida Basquet's victory against the closely-ranked UB La Palma (19-13) 58-54 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. Detrick was the best player in that game. He scored 15 points and added 4 passes in 32 minutes. CE CIP Lleida Basquetbol (20-12) is placed fifth in the LEB Gold. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Detrick belongs to league's top scorers and is ranked #8 with 15.3ppg. This year his other stats are: 3.4rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 33.0% and FT: 74.3% in the 31 games. Detrick is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Detrick is currently a member of the Austrian senior national team. He used to play for UBC Stahlbau Oberwart Gunners in Austrian league.

Hermann Opoku

#4. Power forward Hermann Opoku (205-86, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: G.Washington) managed to help BK JIP Pardubice to win against the fifth-ranked BC Kolin (22-24) crushing them 89-57 in the Czech Republic NBL in Sunday night's game. Opoku recorded only 4 points. BK JIP Pardubice (24-12) is placed fourth in A1 group. Opoku's overall stats this season are: 2.7ppg and 2.2rpg. He used to play for the Austrian national team back in 2010.

Ivan Djerman

#5. Former international forward Ivan Djerman (203-83) contributed to an easy victory against the third-ranked Etzella (20-6) crushing them 91-70 in the Luxembourg Diekirch League last Saturday. Djerman scored 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 34 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group 1-6 places. Amicale Steinsel (11-13) is placed first. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be important. This year Djerman has relatively solid stats: 14.6ppg, 8.7rpg and 1.5apg in the 25 games. He has a dual citizenship: Croatian and Austrian. Despite Djerman played previously for the Croatian national team, he is currently in the Austrian national team roster.

Other top Austrian players, who play abroad:

Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) plays for Zlatorog in Slovenian Telemach League
Matej Kljaic (193-F-91) plays for Svjetlost in Croatian A1
Peter Klemm (197-F-85) plays for Tuebingen II in German Regionalliga
Michael Kaiser (195-G-82) plays for TS Longhorns Herzogenaurach in German Regionalliga
Gunther Zajic (183-G-85) plays for Werne in German Regionalliga
Alexander Schreiner (208-C-90) plays for Bamberg in German 2.Regionalliga
Hansjorg Schuetzinger (190-G/F-90) plays for Birsfelden in Swiss 1LN

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BAHAMAS

Lavar Simmons selected the top Bahamian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Lavar Simmons

#1. This week's number one is former international power forward Lavar Simmons (201-83, college: Master's). Simmons was the major contributor in Roche's victory against the ninth-ranked Etendard de Brest (16-15) 86-83 in the French NM1 (third division) last Friday. He recorded 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Union Al Roche - Case Metropole Basket (0-0) is placed in the NM1. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Simmons has relatively good stats this season: 10.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 52.9% and FT: 62.9%. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Simmons played also for the Bahamas national team in 2009.

Dynile Forbes

#2. Second place goes to former international guard Dynile Forbes (188-86, college: La-Monroe), who plays in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division). He could not help Leyma Basquet (12-10) in their last game. Despite Forbes' very good performance Leyma Basquet lost 66-75 on the road to the lower-ranked (#9) Ourense. He was the top scorer with 17 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) in 33 minutes; not bad, considering it's only Forbes' second season in pro basketball. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. It's Forbes' first year with the team. This season he has relatively solid stats: 11.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 38.6% and FT: 84.1% in the 20 games he played so far. Despite Forbes played previously for the USA national team, he played also for the Bahamas national team in 2009.

Jaraun Burrows

#3. The Bahamas player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Jaraun Burrows (203-85, college: IPFW), who plays in the Swiss LNA. Burrows was not able to help Starwings (9-15) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance Starwings was defeated 74-66 at home by the higher-ranked Geneve Lions (#3). Burrows recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks. Burrows belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #3) and also on the list of best rebounders (fifth place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Burrows averages: 18.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 54.3%, 3FGP: 25.9% and FT: 64.1%. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Burrows is currently a member of the Bahamas senior national team.

Bennet Davis

#4. Forward Bennet Davis (206-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern) was not able to secure a victory for Niigata Albirex (26-22) in their game against Osaka Evessa (33-15) in the Japanese BJ League. Davis recorded 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. But the fourth-placed Niigata Albirex lost 92-103 in Osaka to the second-ranked Evessa in the Eastern group. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. This year Davis' overall stats are: 7.2ppg, 5.9rpg and 1.2apg in the 23 games. Worth to mention he played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Davis is currently in the Bahamas national team roster.

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

#1. Klay Thompson (198-G-90, college: Washington St.), who plays in the NBA could not help the Golden State Warriors (21-37) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the Golden State Warriors lost 103-112 on the road to the Dallas Mavericks. Thompson was the second best scorer with 24 points. He also added 7 rebounds and 8 assists (made all of his five free throws) in 40 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Thompson's third season in pro basketball. It was Golden State Warriors' fifth consecutive loss in a row. It's Thompson's first year with the team. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Thompson averages: 11.5ppg, 2.2rpg and 1.8apg in the 59 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Bahamas and American. Despite Thompson's Bahamas passport, he previously played for the USA U19 national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Bahamas team.

Other top Bahamas players, who play abroad:

Magnum Rolle (211-C/F-86) plays for Atlanta Hawks in the NBA
Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) plays for Marinos in Venezuelan LPB
Jamaal Douglas (201-F-85) plays for Bohemios in Uruguayan LUB
Anwar Ferguson (213-C-81) plays for Correcaminos in Mexican LNBP
Rashad Moss (203-F-86) plays for Pioneros Los Mochis in Mexican CIBACOPA
Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85) plays for Panteras in Mexican LNBP
Robert Nortmann (198-F) plays for Dalhousie University in Canadian university league CIS
Kyle Edwards (208-C-80) plays for Ferrol in Spanish EBA
Urit Kelly (197-F-74) plays for Eivissa in Spanish EBA
Trevor Harvey (211-C-80) plays for Widad Safrou AC de Casablanca in Moroccan D1

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

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

BELARUS

Vitali Liutych selected the top Belarusian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Vitali Liutych

#1. This week's number one is U20 international swingman Vitali Liutych (198-92). He led Siauliai to a victory over the seventh-ranked Baltai Kaunas (9-13) 86-75 in the Lithuanian LKL in Friday night's game. Liutych was MVP of the game. He scored 15 points in 20 minutes on the court. BC Siauliai (16-6) is placed third in the LKL. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Liutych averages: 5.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2FGP: 70.5%(31-44) and FT: 61.5% in the 17 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Belarusian U20 national team.

Dzianis Korshuk

#2. Second place goes to an experienced former international forward Dzianis Korshuk (202-78, agency: New Trend Agency), who plays in the Ukrainian Superleague. Korshuk could not help BC Odessa (22-17) in their last game on Monday. Despite his very good performance BC Odessa was defeated in an overtime 111-103 at home by the lower-ranked DniproAzot (#11). Korshuk was the second best scorer with 15 points. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Korshuk's overall stats this season are: 7.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3FGP: 36.8% and FT: 70.6%. He played for the Belarusian national team in 2009.

Vladimir Veremeenko

#3. The Belarusian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Vladimir Veremeenko (208-84, agency: RU-Basket Management). Veremeenko was not able to help Unics Kazan (6-10) in their game against Khimky (15-2) in the Russian PBL. He recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 24 minutes. Unics Kazan was badly defeated 75-58 on the road by the leading Khimky. It was Unics Kazan's sixth consecutive loss in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. It's Veremeenko's fourth season with the team. This year Veremeenko's overall stats are: 7.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 52.4% and FT: 75.0% in the 15 games. He has a dual citizenship: Belarusian and Russian. Despite Veremeenko played previously for the Russian national team, he played also for the Belarusian national team in 2007.

Artsiom Parakhouski

#4. Center Artsiom Parakhouski (211-87, college: Radford), who plays in the Ukrainian Superleague was not able to secure a victory for Budivelnyk (30-9) in their last game on Monday. Despite Parakhouski's good performance Budivelnyk was defeated 80-65 in a derby game by the much lower-ranked BC Kyiv (#9). He scored 10 points and blocked 2 blocks (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line). There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. Parakhouski's total stats this season are: 8.1ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.2bpg. Despite he played previously for the Russian national team, Parakhouski is currently in the Belarusian national team roster.

Heorhi Kandrusevich

#5. Former international forward Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-78, also represented by New Trend Agency) contributed to an easy victory against the 11th-ranked DniproAzot (12-27) crushing them 101-81 in the Ukrainian Superleague last Thursday. He recorded 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 19 minutes. Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (23-16) is placed fourth in the Superleague. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. Kandrusevich is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Ferro-ZNTU's roster. This season Kandrusevich's total stats are: 9.2ppg, 3.3rpg and 1.4apg in the 33 games. Despite he played previously for the Russian national team, Kandrusevich is currently in the Belarusian national team roster.

Valentin Yurchyk

#6. Forward Valentin Yurchyk (207-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) couldn't help BC Nizhny Novgorod (8-8) in their game against Lietuvos rytas (10-6) in the VTB United League. He scored 7 points. The fourth-placed BC Nizhny Novgorod was crushed 82-61 in Vilnius by the higher-ranked Lietuvos rytas (#3) in the group A of VTB United League. Yurchyk has averaged so far 1.2ppg and 1.8rpg. Despite he played previously for the Russian national team, Yurchyk is also a former international player as he played for the Belarusian senior team two years ago.

Aliaksandr Pustahvar

#7. Former international forward Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-85, another player represented by RU-Basket Management) is a teammate of previously mentioned Valentin Yurchyk. But that was another game of his team in VTB United League which we would like to mention. Pustahvar couldn't help BC Nizhny Novgorod (8-8) in their game against Lietuvos rytas (10-6). He cannot count it as his best performance. Pustahvar recorded only 2 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 24 minutes. BC Nizhny Novgorod (#4) lost 60-64 in Vilnius to the higher-ranked (#3) Lietuvos rytas in the group A of VTB United League. Pustahvar has averaged so far 3.0ppg and 1.6rpg in the 15 games. He used to play for the Belarusian national team two years ago.

Mikalai Aliakseyeu

#8. Center Mikalai Aliakseyeu (212-78, agency: TSS Management, college: Buffalo) couldn't help Targu Mures (3-0) in their game against U-Mobitelco (20-8) in the Romanian Division A. Aliakseyeu scored only 4 points. The league leader Targu Mures was badly defeated 76-58 in Cluj by the lower-ranked U-Mobitelco (#3). It's Aliakseyeu's first season with the team. He has averaged so far 4.2ppg and 2.7rpg. Aliakseyeu plays currently for the Belarusian national team.

Sergey Karpov

#9. International forward Sergey Karpov (200-80) contributed to a Sojuz Zaretchny's victory against the league outsider Spartak Vidnoye Moscowskaya Oblast (11-21) 90-78 in the Russian Superlaegue (second division) on Tuesday night. He scored 10 points in 16 minutes. BC Sojuz Zaretchny (7-25) is placed first in the Superlaegue. The Regular Season already ended. Karpov has averaged so far 9.5ppg and 2.2rpg in the 30 games. Despite he played previously for the Russian national team, Karpov is currently in the Belarusian national team roster.

Valery Gandlin

#10. Guard Valery Gandlin (191-86) couldn't help Kiryat Tivon (13-13) in their game against Ironi Ramat Gan (12-14) in the Israeli National League (second division). He scored 5 points. Kiryat Tivon was defeated 88-83 on their home court in Kiryat Tivon by the lower-ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (#8). Gandlin's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Gandlin has relatively good stats this season: 10.8ppg, 1.4rpg and 2.3apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Belarusian National Team roster.

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BELGIUM

Axel Hervelle selected the top Belgian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Axel Hervelle

#1. This week's number one is an international forward Axel Hervelle (205-83). He contributed to a Gescrap BB's victory against the 16th-ranked Blusens Monbus (10-19) 79-71 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Hervelle recorded 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 25 minutes on the court. Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket (17-12) is placed fourth in the ACB. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. This year Hervelle averages: 5.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 3FGP: 30.8% and FT: 51.6% in the 23 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Belgian senior national team.

Beye Tabu-Eboma

#2. Second place goes to an international point guard Beye Tabu-Eboma (190-85). Tabu-Eboma led Vanoli-Braga to a victory against the sixth-ranked Umana Venezia (16-11) 89-80 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. He scored 16 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Vanoli-Braga Cremona (11-17) is placed 15th in the SerieA. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Tabu-Eboma has relatively good stats this season: 10.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 51.1%, 3FGP: 39.3% and FT: 75.4%. He is in the roster of the Belgian senior national team.

Marcus Faison

#3. The Belgian player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced international guard Marcus Faison (196-78, college: Siena). Faison was the major contributor in Kryvbasbasket's victory against the closely-ranked Mykolaiv (11-28) 85-70 in the Ukrainian Superleague on Thursday night. He recorded 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists in 34 minutes. Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih (15-24) is placed tenth in the Superleague. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. The Regular Season already ended. This year Faison's overall stats are: 8.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 41.8%, 3FGP: 34.2% and FT: 54.5% in the 13 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Faison played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the Belgian senior national team. Faison used to play for TEC Spirou Charleroi in Belgian league.

Aleksander Lichodzijewski

#4. Center Aleksander Lichodzijewski (202-84), who plays in the Polish PLK could not help PBG Basket (11-27) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his very good performance the seventh-placed PBG Basket was defeated 73-60 on the road by the higher-ranked Kotwica (#3) in the Group B. Lichodzijewski was the top scorer with 16 points. He also added 3 steals. The Second Stage already ended. It's Lichodzijewski's first season with the team. This year Lichodzijewski has relatively solid stats: 12.0ppg, 5.2rpg and 1.4apg. He has a dual citizenship: Belgian and Polish. Despite Lichodzijewski played previously for the Polish national team, he is currently in the Belgian national team roster.

Sam Van Rossom

#5. International guard Sam Van Rossom (188-86) was not able to help CAI Zaragoza (14-15) in their game against Regal FC Barcelona (24-5) in the Spanish ACB. Van Rossom recorded 5 points in 21 minutes. CAI Zaragoza was badly defeated 68-49 at home by the leading Regal FC Barcelona. It was CAI Zaragoza's third consecutive loss in a row. This year Van Rossom's total stats are: 6.6ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.8apg in the 29 games. He plays currently for the Belgian national team.

Ryan Hoover

#6. Guard Ryan Hoover (188-74, agency: SportsTalent, college: Notre Dame) was not able to secure a victory for Fileni BPA (13-12) in their game against Trenkwalder RE (18-7) in the Italian Lega2 (second division). Hoover scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line). Fileni BPA was defeated 78-65 in Reggio Emilia by the leading Trenkwalder RE. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Hoover has reliable stats this season: 11.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg and 1.4spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Hoover played previously for the USA national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Belgian National Team roster. Strangely Hoover has never played in Belgium.

Christopher Jones

#7. best in steals with 2.5spg. Jones also averaged so far 12.3ppg, 5.3rpg and 2.5apg in the 24 games. Despite he played previously for the Luxembourg national team, Jones is currently in the Belgian national team roster.

Dimitri Jorssen

#8. Power forward Dimitri Jorssen (212-79, college: Utah St.), who plays in the Luxembourg Diekirch League couldn't help Soleuvre (12-12) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his very good performance Soleuvre (#2) was crushed 86-65 on their home court in Belvaux by the second-ranked Basket Esch in the 7-10 places group. Jorssen recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 10 rebounds. The Second Stage already ended. Jorssen has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 17.3ppg, 8.1rpg and 1.4apg. Despite Jorssen played previously for the Luxembourg national team, he is currently in the Belgian national team roster.

Other top Belgian players, who play abroad:

Dimitri Lauwers (187-G-79) plays for Air Avellino in Italian SerieA
Yannick Driesen (215-C-88) plays for Asefa Estudiantes in Spanish ACB
Sebastien Maio (190-G-78) plays for Plymouth Raiders in British BBL
Mark Acres (210-C-62) plays for Benfica in Portuguese LPB
Kandi Mukole (203-F) plays for Guildford Heat in British BBL
Thomas Dreesen (199-F-88) plays for Sparta in Luxembourg Diekirch League
Karim Nesba (188-G-86) plays for RSB Berkane in Moroccan D1
Steve Oelbrandt (200-C-80) plays for Helsingborg in Swedish Basketettan

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

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BOSNIA

Mirza Teletovic selected the top Bosnian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Here is the weekly review of the top performing Bosnia and Herzegovina players, who play currently abroad.

Mirza Teletovic

#1. This week's number one is an international forward Mirza Teletovic (206-85, agency: Beo Basket), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He could not help Caja Laboral (20-9) in their last game. Despite Teletovic's very good performance Caja Laboral was edged 72-70 on the road by the lower-ranked (#9) Assignia Manresa. He was the top scorer with 22 points. Teletovic also added 3 blocks in 34 minutes on the court. It's Teletovic's sixth season with the team. He is currently second on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). Teletovic has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 17.1ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 36.7% and FT: 71.3% in the 29 games he played so far. Teletovic is currently a member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina senior national team.

Zoran Planinic

#2. Second place goes to an international guard Zoran Planinic (199-82). He led his Russian team Khimky to a victory over the leader Valencia Basket (6-0) 77-68 in the Eurocup last Sunday. Planinic was MVP of the game. He recorded 19 points and added 4 assists. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group J. BC Khimky Moscow Region (5-1) is placed second. Planinic belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #3. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 51.9%, 3FGP: 27.3% and FT: 79.6%. Planinic has a dual citizenship: Croatian and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Planinic is currently a member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina senior national team.

Kenan Bajramovic

#3. The Bosnia and Herzegovina player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Kenan Bajramovic (206-81). He contributed to a Banvit BK's victory against the tenth-ranked Mersin (11-17) 88-82 in the Turkish TBL on Wednesday night. Bajramovic scored 15 points, had 6 rebounds, passed 4 assists and added 2 blocks in a mere 19 minutes. Banvit Basketbol Kulubu (23-5) is placed second in the TBL. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Bajramovic has relatively good stats this year: 11.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 61.2%(82-134), 3FGP: 35.9% and FT: 66.2% in the 27 games. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Bajramovic is currently a member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina senior national team.

Henry Domercant

#4. Guard Henry Domercant (192-80, college: E.Illinois) was the major contributor in an Unics Kazan's victory against the closely-ranked Spartak Primorie Vladivostok (7-9) 81-64 in the Russian PBL in Friday night's game. He scored 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Unics Kazan (6-10) is placed eighth in the PBL. They ended the series of six consecutive loses. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. It's Domercant's first season with the team. This year Domercant has relatively solid stats: 11.1ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.8apg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Domercant played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster. Strangely Domercant has never played in Bosnia.

Goran Ikonic

#5. International guard Goran Ikonic (196-80, also represented by Beo Basket) was the main contributor in Karsiyaka's victory against the 13th-ranked Antalya (8-20) 95-85 in the Turkish TBL last Saturday. He was the best player in that game. Ikonic recorded 21 points and added 3 passes in 29 minutes. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir (18-10) is placed sixth in the TBL. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Ikonic has reliable stats this year: 12.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.0apg and 1.2spg in the 28 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Ikonic is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

Marko Keselj

#6. Forward Marko Keselj (205-88, another player represented by Beo Basket) helped Olympiakos win their game against the 11th-ranked Ilysiakos (7-17) crushing them 83-57 in a derby game in the Greek A1 on Wednesday night. He scored 11 points. Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (23-1) is placed first in the A1. It was his team's 20th consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. Keselj's overall stats this season are: 5.8ppg and 2.5rpg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Keselj is also an international player who is currently on the senior Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team roster.

Stanko Barac

#7. International center Stanko Barac (217-86) helped Anadolu Efes win their game against the league outsider Bandirma Kirmizi (4-24) 77-71 in the Turkish TBL in Sunday night's game. He scored 12 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. Anadolu Efes Istanbul (22-6) is placed third in the TBL. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. This year Barac's overall stats are: 7.9ppg and 3.7rpg in the 26 games. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Barac is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

Nihad Djedovic

#8. Forward Nihad Djedovic (196-90, another player represented by Beo Basket) helped Galatasaray win their game against the fifth-ranked Fenerbahce Ulker (20-8) 84-72 in a derby game in the Turkish TBL last Wednesday. He scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (23-5) is placed first in the TBL. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. Djedovic averaged so far 13.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg and 1.5spg. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Djedovic is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

Damir Markota

#9. International power forward Damir Markota (210-85, agency: World Sport Agency) helped KK Zagreb CO win their game against the third-ranked Jolly (16-4) 95-87 in the Croatian A1 on Saturday night. He scored 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 32 minutes. KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje (4-4) is placed fifth in Championship Group. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. Markota has very impressive stats this year: 17.9ppg, 7.6rpg and 1.3apg in the eight games. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Markota is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

Mirza Begic

   #10. Center Mirza Begic (217-85) helped Real Madrid win their game against the eighth-ranked Meridiano Alicante (15-13) 91-87 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. He scored 8 points and blocked 2 blocks. Real Madrid (22-7) is placed second in the ACB. Begic belongs to league's best blockers and is ranked #4. His total stats this season are: 5.9ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.6bpg. Despite Begic played previously for the Slovenian national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team roster.

   #11. International guard Ernest Bremer (194-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) helped Armani Milano win their game against the 12th-ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro 98-92 in the Italian SerieA last Monday. Bremer recorded 12 points and added 3 passes in 25 minutes. His stats this year are: 10.7ppg, 3.2rpg and 3.2apg in the nine games. Bremer is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Bremer is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster. He used to play for Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina league.

   #12. International center Mile Ilic (215-84, agency: Interperformances) helped Zvezda win their game against the sixth-ranked Radnicki Basket crushing them 89-65 in a derby game in the Serbian A League on Thursday night. Ilic scored 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. His total stats this season are: 8.0ppg and 4.2rpg. Despite Ilic played previously for the Serbian national team, he is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

   #13. International swingman Bojan Bogdanovic (203-89) faced previously mentioned Nihad Djedovic in the Turkish TBL last game. Bogdanovic was not able to help Fenerbahce Ulker in their game against Galatasaray. He scored 8 points and added 3 assists in 25 minutes. His team lost 72-84. Bogdanovic averaged so far 14.1ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.9apg in the 28 games. Despite he played previously for the Croatian national team, Bogdanovic is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

   #14. International power forward Vanja Plisnic (205-80, another player represented by Beo Basket) helped Banco di Sardegna Sassari edge the 12th-ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro 79-77 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. He scored 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Plisnic's total stats this season are: 8.2ppg, 3.9rpg and 1.5apg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Plisnic is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

   #15. International guard Nemanja Gordic (193-88) helped Lottomatica Roma win their game against the closely-ranked Air Avellino 88-82 in the Italian SerieA on Sunday night. He recorded 20 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists in 29 minutes. This year Gordic's total stats are: 8.9ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.0apg in the 28 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Gordic is currently in the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team roster.

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BOTSWANA

Spartans improve to 6-0 record on top - by Eurobasket News

Spartans improve to 6-0 record on top after the latest victory over BDF V 53:36. Earlier they edged Flames 59:57. Dolphins and Police are with 2-0 records each after the victories over their opponents. Police won over Troopers 83:70 and Dolphins overcame Splinters 82:66.
The next games will be played on April 18th and 20th.

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BRAZIL

Marcelinho Huertas selected the top Brazilian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Marcelinho Huertas

#1. This week's number one is an international point guard Marcelinho Huertas (191-83, agency: Edge Sports). He was the major contributor in a Regal FC Barcelona's victory against the sixth-ranked Lagun Aro GBC (16-13) 77-61 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Huertas scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 23 minutes on the court. Regal FC Barcelona (24-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. This year Huertas averages: 8.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.3apg, 3FGP: 41.8% and FT: 79.5% in the 29 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Brazilian and Italian. Despite Huertas played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently a member of the Brazilian senior national team.

Tiago Splitter

#2. Second place goes to an international power forward Tiago Splitter (211-85, agency: Interperformances), who plays in the NBA. Splitter could not help the San Antonio Spurs (42-16) in their last game on Monday. Despite his good performance the San Antonio Spurs were defeated 91-84 on the road by the Utah Jazz. Splitter was the second best scorer with 14 points. He also added 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Splitter has relatively good stats this season: 9.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 61.7%(184-298) and FT: 68.1%. He is another player who holds two passports: Brazilian and Spanish. Despite Splitter played previously for the Spanish national team, he is currently a member of the Brazilian senior national team.

Leandrinho Barbosa

#3. The Brazilian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international point guard Leandrinho Barbosa (190-82). Barbosa led Indiana Pacers to an easy victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers (20-39) 102-83 in the NBA on Friday night. He scored 13 points and added 4 assists in 24 minutes. The Indiana Pacers have a solid 38-22 record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Barbosa has relatively solid stats: 8.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 39.3%, 3FGP: 47.7%(21-44) and FT: 72.0% in the 17 games. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Barbosa played also for the Brazilian national team in 2010.

Vitor Faverani

#4. Center Vitor Faverani (211-88) contributed to a Valencia Basket's victory against the closely-ranked Lietuvos rytas (4-2) 80-70 in the Eurocup in Saturday night's game. He recorded 10 points and blocked 2 blocks. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group I. Valencia Basket (6-0) is placed first. So far his team won all six games in the Semi-Finals. Faverani's overall stats this season are: 7.2ppg and 2.9rpg. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Faverani is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

Rafael Hettsheimer

#5. International center Rafael Hettsheimer (206-86) was not able to help CAI Zaragoza (14-15) in their game against FIATC Joventut (13-16) in the Spanish ACB, despite his very good performance last Sunday. He was the second best scorer with 14 points. Hettsheimer also added 6 rebounds in 29 minutes. But CAI Zaragoza was crushed 85-63 in Badalona by the lower-ranked (#12) FIATC Joventut. It was CAI Zaragoza's third consecutive loss in a row. Hettsheimer is currently sixth on the league's list of top scorers with 14.3ppg. This year he also averages: 6.8rpg in the 28 games. Hettsheimer has both Brazilian and Spanish nationalities. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Hettsheimer is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

Raul Neto

#6. Point guard Raul Neto (186-92) faced previously mentioned Marcelinho Huertas in the Spanish ACB last game. Neto was not able to secure a victory for Lagun Aro GBC (16-13) in their game against Regal FC Barcelona (24-5). Despite his good performance on Sunday night He was the second best scorer with 12 points. Neto also added 3 steals. Neto's overall stats this season are: 5.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Neto is also an international player who is currently on the senior Brazilian National Team roster.

Paulo Prestes

#7. Former international center Paulo Prestes (210-88) couldn't help Pieno Zvaigzdes (13-9) in their game against Zalgiris (21-1) in the Lithuanian LKL, despite his good performance in Saturday night's game. He was the top scorer with 11 points. Prestes also added 7 rebounds in a mere 19 minutes. But Pieno Zvaigzdes was crushed 81-55 at home by the leading Zalgiris. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Prestes' overall stats are: 7.9ppg and 5.6rpg in the eight games. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Prestes is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

Hatila Passos

#8. Center Hatila Passos (211-86, college: N.Mexico St.) couldn't help Hebraica (9-1) in their game against Malvin (0-0) in the Uruguayan LUB. Despite his good performance last Friday He recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Passos is currently sixth on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.4ppg and 11.6rpg. Despite Passos played previously for the Spanish national team, he is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

Jonathan Tavernari

#9. Former international swingman Jonathan Tavernari (198-87, college: BYU) led Tuscany Pistoia to a victory against the tenth-ranked Prima Veroli (11-14) 78-66 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) on Sunday night. Tavernari scored 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 27 minutes. Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (17-9) is placed second in the Lega2. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This year Tavernari's total stats are: 9.8ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.6spg in the 11 games. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Tavernari is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

Rafael Freire

   #10. Point guard Rafael Freire (188-92) couldn't help Meridiano Alicante (15-13) in their game against Real Madrid (22-7) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 6 points and added 3 assists. Meridiano Alicante was defeated 91-87 in Madrid by the second-ranked Real. Freire has averaged so far 5.8ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.6apg. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Freire is also an international player who is currently on the senior Brazilian National Team roster.

   #11. International center Guilherme Gitterer (204-85) couldn't help Gandia Basquet in their game against River Andorra in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division), despite his good performance last Saturday. He scored 10 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 27 minutes. But his team was crushed by 21 points 87-66. Gitterer has averaged so far 6.8ppg and 5.9rpg in the 22 games. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Gitterer is currently in the Brazilian national team roster.

   #12. Former international guard Carlos Cobos (193-88) couldn't help Leche Rio Breogan in their game against Baloncesto Leon in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). He cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. Cobos scored only 2 points and added 3 passes. His team was badly defeated by 20 points 94-74. Cobos has averaged so far 4.2ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.9apg. He used to play for the Brazilian national team back in 2010.

   #13. Former international forward Kazuya Hatano (192-82) managed to help Shiga Lakestars in a victory against the seventh-ranked Shinshu BW crushing them 86-59 in the Japanese BJ League in Saturday night's game. Hatano scored only 1 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 15 minutes. Hatano has averaged so far 2.7ppg and 2.7rpg in the 38 games. He used to play for the Brazilian national team two years ago.

   #14. Former international forward Gustavo Lo Leggio (195-87) helped Lugano Tigers win their game against one of league's weakest teams SAM Massagno crushing them 110-65 in the Swiss LNA last Tuesday. Lo Leggio scored only 2 points. Lo Leggio has averaged so far 2.6ppg and 1.1rpg. He used to play for the Brazilian national team back in 2001.

Uniceub/BRB advances to Final Four of Liga Americas - by Eurobasket News

Uniceub/BRB advanced to Liga Americas Final Four. It was a decisive game for both teams and Brazilians managed to take it 74-72 in thriller. The game was played on Sunday. Uniceub/BRB finished as No.2 of Group F with 2-1 record. Arecibo is the last ranked team of this pool with 1-2. Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 23 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 and Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) had 13 points, 8 assists and 5 boards. Larry Ayuso top-scored in Arecibo with 21 points. David Cortes and Daniel Santiago stopped to 12 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 20-21, 13-11, 22-13, 19-27.
In the second game, La Union was better than Uniceub/BRB 93-71. Ariel Pau exploded with 26 points for the winners. Ruben Wolkowyski secured a great help with 13 points and 12 rebs, while Lucas Perez added 12 pts and 6 assists. In Uniceub/BRB, Alex Ribeiro and Welington Dos Santos (5 as) scored 14 points each. Guilherme Giovannoni had double-double of 13 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 15-11, 32-15, 22-26, 24-19.
In the opening game, Uniceub/BRB grabbed 81-80 thriller win against Cocodrilos. Alirio de Souza (208-C-77) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Arthur Silva (199-F/G-82) followed with 16 points, while Guilherme Giovannoni added 13 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. In defeat, Carl Elliott had 22 points and 5 boards, while Leandro Garcia Morales scored 18 pts. Quarters: 27-21, 15-22, 13-17, 26-20.

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CAMEROON

ECOLE DE BASKET ELITE conquer the top with 18-2 record - by Eurobasket News

ECOLE DE BASKET ELITE conquer the top with 18-2 record. PHOENIX ESPOIRS follow them with 16-4 record, while UDLA is third with 15-5. ZE MARDI is on the 4th position with 14-6 record and NO NAME had 12-8. LYNX EYES is on the bottom with 3-17 record.

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CROATIA

Saric's double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

17-year old power forward Dario Saric (208-F/C-94) put on an amazing game in the last round for KK Zagreb CO and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Jolly (#7, 1-7) 95-87. KK Zagreb CO maintains the 5th position in Croatian league. KK Zagreb CO is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 4th lost game this season out of 8 games. It's Saric's second year at KK Zagreb CO and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Dario Saric averages this season 12.2ppg and 7.3rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Mate Mrva (195-F-83) of Jolly JBS. He is a forward in his second season at Jolly. In the last game Mrva recorded impressive 35 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Bad luck as Jolly lost that game 87-95 to slightly higher-ranked KK Zagreb CO (#5, 4-4). Jolly managed to keep the same 7th spot in Championship. 7 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Jolly managed to get this Second Stage. Mrva is well-known at Jolly and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to another KK Zagreb CO's star - forward Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85). Simon showcased his all-around game by recording 29 points, six rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of KK Zagreb CO, helping his team with a 95-87 win against slightly lower-ranked Jolly (#7, 1-7). KK Zagreb CO needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in Championship. Their record at this point is 4 victories and 4 lost games. Simon has a very solid season. In 8 games in Croatia he scored 19.9ppg. He also has 5.3rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 57.9% and 3PT: 45.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ronald Ross (188-G-83) of Jolly - 16 points, 14 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Veljko Budimir (199-G/F-85) of Darda - 18 points and 14 rebounds
6. Filip Kraljevic (214-F-89) of Zabok - 18 points and 9 rebounds
7. Ive Ivanov (201-C-85) of Zadar - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Andrej Stimac (204-F/C-79) of Svjetlost - 21 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Marijan Cakarun (90) of Borik - 15 points and 6 rebounds
10. Goran Vrbanc (194-G-84) of Zadar - 17 points and 4 assists

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

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DENMARK

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 24.9

1. White, Aalborg	24.9
2. Harris, Horsens IC	24.6
3. Henry, Naestved	22.1
4. Alexander, Bakken	21.9
5. Rutherford, SISU	21.0
6. Curry, Aabyhoj	20.7
7. Bishop, Aalborg	19.0
8. Rasmussen, Vaerl.	18.8
9. Sprinker, Vaerlose	17.3
10. Delk, Vaerlose	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

D''Mario CURRY
  Aabyhoj
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Curry, Aabyhoj	11.6
2. Bishop, Aalborg	11.3
3. Glynn, Naestved	10.4
4. St.John, Horsens	10.2
5. Vinson, Svendborg	8.9
6. Phillips, Aabyhoj	8.6
7. Osgood-R., Vaerlose	8.4
8. Benjamin, Horsholm	8.3
9. Ba, Falcon	8.2
10. Rutherford, SISU	8.0

Assists Per Game

Davor SATTLER
  Horsens IC
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Sattler, Horsens IC	5.4
2. Henry, Naestved	5.1
3. White, Aalborg	4.9
4. Delk, Vaerlose	4.6
5. Colman, Svendborg	4.6
6. McFarlane, Falcon	3.9
7. Fields, Falcon	3.9
8. Darboe, Svendborg	3.6
9. Nielsen, SISU	3.6
10. Curry, Aabyhoj	3.5

Steals Per Game

Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Henry, Naestved	3.4
2. Wire, Vaerlose	2.9
3. White, Aalborg	2.8
4. Dennis, SISU	2.6
5. Bishop, Aalborg	2.3
6. Fields, Falcon	2.1
7. Sattler, Horsens IC	2.0
8. Nielsen, SISU	1.9
9. Alexander, Bakken	1.8
10. McFarlane, Falcon	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Bonell COLAS
  Horsholm
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Colas, Horsholm	1.7
2. Curry, Aabyhoj	1.7
3. Christoffers., Bak.	1.7
4. Bishop, Aalborg	1.6
5. Phillips, Aabyhoj	1.6
6. Vinson, Svendborg	1.3
7. Sprinker, Vaerlose	1.2
8. Marinkovic, Horsho.	1.1
9. Johansen, Naestved	0.9
10. Eleraky, Aalborg	0.9

Ligaen Finals: Bears tie the score to 1-1 (best-of-seven) - by Eurobasket News

Game Two: Svendborg - Bakken 68-81 (1-1)

The game was mostly controlled by Bakken. Svendborg managed to win second period 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international point guard Andreas Jakobsen (187-83, college: Columbia, MO) chipped in 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four Bakken players scored in double figures. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international guard Chanan Colman (191-84, college: Chipola) responded with 21 points and 5 assists and American forward Matthew Kingsley (206-86, college: SF Austin) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. Game Three - April 19 at Bakken's home court.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: C.Colman 21+3reb+5ast, M.Kingsley 18+7reb, D.Vinson 9+9reb+1ast, A.Darboe 6+5reb+5ast, C.Magaard 6+4reb, J.Hansen 4+1reb
Bakken: J.Alexander 16+7reb+2ast, N.Iversen 16+3reb+1ast, F.Nielsen 12+5reb+4ast, A.Jakobsen 11+8reb+4ast, J.Jensen 9+4reb, C.Christoffersen 6+6reb+1ast

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D-LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 23.8

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	23.8
2. Almond, Maine RC	23.4
3. Emmett, Reno B.	23.1
4. Dentmon, Austin T.	22.8
5. Mitchell, Sioux F.	19.6
6. Efevberha, Iowa E.	19.6
7. Costner, Los A.	19.5
8. Millsap, Los A.	19.3
9. Ubiles, Dakota W.	19.2
10. Gilder, Sioux F.	19.2

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 12.7

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	12.7
2. Harangody, Canton	11.8
3. Butch, Bakersfi.	10.4
4. Dawson, Austin T.	10.4
5. Thomas, Los A.	9.2
6. Foote, Springfield	9.1
7. Williams, Texas L.	8.9
8. Criswell-L., Austi.	8.9
9. Reid, Tulsa 66ers	8.6
10. Horner, Springfi.	8.5

Assists Per Game

Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.9

1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	9.9
2. Conroy, Rio G.	9.0
3. Daniels, Texas L.	8.7
4. Curry, Springfield	6.3
5. Wise, Bakersfield	6.3
6. Fortson, Los A.	5.9
7. Bailey, Idaho S.	5.8
8. Stinson, Iowa E.	5.8
9. Baker, Dakota W.	5.7
10. Johnson, Austin	5.6

Steals Per Game

Marqus BLAKELY
  Sioux F.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Blakely, Sioux F.	2.2
2. Coleman, Sioux F.	2.2
3. Smith, Springfield	2.2
4. Fortson, Los A.	2.1
5. Hannah, Dakota W.	2.0
6. Millsap, Los A.	1.9
7. Owens, Tulsa 66ers	1.9
8. Saunders, Rio G.	1.9
9. Curry, Springfield	1.9
10. Bobbitt, Idaho S.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Hamady N''DIAYE
  Maine R.
  (213-C-87)
  Avg: 3.2

1. N''Diaye, Maine R.	3.2
2. Foster, Idaho S.	2.9
3. Williams, Texas L.	2.5
4. Saunders, Rio G.	2.3
5. Daniels, Erie B.	2.1
6. Thomas, Los A.	2.0
7. Hill, Maine RC	1.8
8. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.7
9. Dawson, Austin T.	1.6
10. Strong, Iowa E.	1.6

Quarterfinals, second games: D-Fenders and Jam advance to Semis - by Eurobasket News

Dakota W. - Bakersfield J. 91-93
Maurice Baker's (6'1''-PG-79, college: Oklahoma St.) last second shot bounced off the rim and the visiting Bakersfield Jam completed the series sweep over Dakota with a 93-91 victory. Bakersfield advances to the second round to face the Los Angeles D-Fenders. Chris Wright (6'8''-F-88, college: Dayton) led the way for the Wizards finishing with a double-double, scoring 20 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Bakersfield jumped all over Dakota to start the game leading 17-7 half way through the first quarter. The Jam took advantage of the Wizards poor shooting closing out the quarter with a 33-23 lead. Bakersfield built their lead to 14 on a Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, college: Jackson St.) basket, but Dakota would battle and finish the quarter on a 10-2 run to cut the lead to six (45-51) at the half. Shy Ely brought the Wizards to within 2 on a lay-up with 4:36 remaining in the third. That would be the deficit at the end of the quarter as well with Bakersfield holding a slim 67-65 lead heading into the final quarter. Dakota took the lead on a Stefhon Hannah free-throw, but Derrick Byars answered with a three point basket to take the lead back, 87-85. The Wizards watched Baker's last second shot fall off the rim as time expired and Bakersfield sealed the 93-91 win. Edwin Ubiles filled the box score with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in the loss. Shy Ely came off the bench to score 11. Brian Butch (6'11''-C/F-84, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) led the way for the Jam recording a double-double with 12 points and 17 rebounds. Trey Johnson scored a game-high 24 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. The Wizards close out the season with a 29-22 record. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Canton C. 125-116 OT
It took any extra period, but the Springfield Armor earned its first win in playoff history Sunday night defeating the Canton Charge 125-116 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The Armor tied the best-of-three series after dropping the first game in Canton on Friday night. Sunday's win sets the stage for a decisive Game 3 Monday night in Springfield. Former Nets forward Dennis Horner (6'9''-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) scored 12 of his 29 points from the fourth quarter on. He also grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds. He scored six straight Armor points to open the fourth and during a back-and-forth quarter scored the last six points to tie the game at 113 sending the game into overtime. Jameson Curry (6'4''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.), who had a game-high 30 points and seven assists, had a chance to win the game in regulation, but was called for an offensive foul with 0.4 seconds remaining. It was one of the few times a Curry drive didn't end in an Armor bucket. Curry and Horner led the way in overtime as Curry knocked down a foul line jumper early. And after a Canton miss, Horner got fouled and sank a pair of free throws. Charge forward Luke Harangody, who was re-assigned from Cleveland earlier in the day, buried a 3-pointer to cut the lead to 117-116, but that would be the final basket of the night for the Charge. Springfield scored eight unanswered to take Game 2. 'We worked all season to get here,' said Horner. 'I didn't want to go out like that tonight.' Springfield came out on fire. The Armor connected on seven of the first eight shots and quickly grabbed a 26-10 lead, the largest lead of the game. Curry did a terrific job of getting into the lane and either getting fouled or finding an open teammate. The Armor also benefited from good outside shooting. On the defensive end, Springfield swarmed Canton, never letting them get a good look. However, late in the first quarter and into the second, the defensive intensity faded and Canton was able to crawl back into the game, trailing at half 64-57. In the third, Canton grabbed its first lead of the contest, 70-69, four minutes in on a Dante Milligan floater. The Charge held the Armor to a miserable 5-for-15 shooting in the third. 'We wanted to get the basket and get to the line,' said MacKinnon. 'I thought we stayed with it. There was only one stretch in the third quarter where we started relying on jump shots.' The Armor took 54 shots from the foul line Sunday night, 31 more than on Friday. Springfield was also strong on the boards Sunday, much improved from Friday's loss where the Charge outrebounded the Armor 53-41. Sunday, Springfield owned the boards 44-27. 'That was a big focus for us,' said MacKinnon. 'Friday night was disappointing. Not that we lost, but that we got outworked. I thought that we worked as hard as they did tonight.' Monday's game begins at 7 p.m. from the MassMutual Center. 'All we have is one more game and if you can't get up for that, you shouldn't be in this business,' said MacKinnon. *Courtesy of http://netsarescorching.com

Austin T. - Erie Bay H. 97-87
In front of 4,392 fans, the Austin Toros defeated the Erie BayHawks, 97-87, on Sunday afternoon at Cedar Park Center. The win tied the playoff series at 1-1. After being down by four early in the first quarter, the Toros came charging back to take the lead. Cory Joseph (6'3''-PG-91, college: Texas) 's eight points in the quarter gave Austin a 31-23 advantage going into the second quarter. The Toros extended their lead in the second quarter, at one point leading by 18 points. The BayHawks fought back and cut the Toros lead in half, ending the quarter down 57-48. Austin again jumped out to an 18-point lead in the third quarter. However, Joey Graham had 12 points in the quarter for Erie to reduce the Toros lead to five, 82-77, going into the fourth quarter. Luke Zeller gave the Toros a ten-point lead, 89-79, off a three pointer early in the fourth. The Toros maintained the lead throughout the rest of the quarter, winning the game, 97-87. Ronald Murray (6'4''-G-79, college: Shaw) led all scorers with 21 points and four assists. Joseph finished the game with 14 points and seven assists. Graham led the BayHawks with 20 points and seven rebounds. D.J. Kennedy recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of http://austin.ynn.com

Los Angeles D. - Iowa E. 94-92
The Los Angeles D-Fenders edged the Iowa Energy 94-92 on Saturday night at Toyota Sports Center and advanced to the second round of the NBA Development League Playoffs. Despite trailing 56-51 after the first two quarters of play, the D-Fenders turned their deficit into a two-point lead at the end of the third after holding the Energy to 29.4 percent shooting from the field and forcing seven turnovers. With eight lead changes and four ties occurring in the final quarter, the D-Fenders managed to go up by three points with 56 seconds remaining before closing out the win on a late-game defensive possession. Malcolm Thomas (6'9''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: San Diego St.) totaled a team-high 20 points (6-9 FG, 8-8 FT), Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB) recorded 19 points along with six rebounds and two steals, and Orien Greene tallied 14 points, six assists and a game-high five steals for the D-Fenders. Additionally, Mardy Collins finished with 13 points and five assists off the bench in the win. Iowa (0-2), who was the defending D-League champion, was paced by Curtis Stinson (22 points [10-18 FG], 7 assists), Mike Efevberha (19 points, 7 rebounds) and Ben Strong (14 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks). Meanwhile, Andrew Drevo pitched in 10 points along with six assists to round out the Energy players who registered double-digit scoring efforts. In a game that saw 17 lead changes and 13 ties, the D-Fenders outscored the Energy 22-8 on the fast break and forced 23 turnovers. The D-Fenders will start the second round on the road versus the winner of the Bakersfield-Dakota series after finishing the regular season as the top team in the league with a D-League all-time best 38-12 record. *Courtesy of D-League

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EBA

Stats Leaders

EBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1, Wise, Washington Madness, 31.8
2, Board, Washington Madness, 30.4
3, Leon, Hudson Valley Hype, 26.8
4, Roach, Winchester Storm, 25.5
5, Perez, N.Y.C. Jaguars, 25
ley Hype, 26.3
5, Perez, N.Y.C. Jaguars, 25.8

Rebounds Per Game

1, Coker, New York Wizards, 13.2
2, Boone, Harrisburg Horizon, 12.4
3, Lawley, New York Wizards, 10
4, Palmer, Harrisburg Horizon, 9.5
4, Poole, Metropolitan All-Stars, 9.5

Assists Per Game

1, Flegler, Nova Hawks, 12.2
2, Scott, New York Wizards, 7
3, Perez, N.Y.C. Jaguars, 6.6
4, Carter, Hudson Valley Hype, 5.8
5, Labase, Hudson Valley Hype, 5.8

Steals Per Game

1, Ferguson, New York Wizards, 2.8
2, Carter, Metropolitan All-Stars, 2.5
3, Scott, New York Wizards, 2.3
4, Esonwune, Hudson Valley Hype, 2.2
4, Fawehinmi, Winchester Storm, 2.2
4, Flegler, Nova Hawks, 2.2
4, Hernandez, Nova Hawks, 2.2
4, Labase, Hudson Valley Hype, 2.2
4, Poole, Metropolitan All-Stars, 2.2

Blocks Per Game

1, Boone, Harrisburg Horizon, 5.2
2, Coker, New York Wizards, 3.8
3, Harrington, Nova Hawks, 2.5
4, Onunaku, Winchester Storm, 1.8
5, Williams, Metropolitan All-Stars, 1.6

Bracket Set for EBA Final Four - by EBA Media

Washington Madness claimed the last spot in the EBA Championship series with a 121 to 115 win over the Harrisburg Horizon. They will take on #1 seed Hudson Valley Hype, Saturday, April 21st at the Elmcor Gym in Corona, N.Y.

The other half of the bracket will pit two Washington, DC rivals, defending EBA Champion and #2 seed Metropolitan All-Stars against the NoVa Hawks, Saturday, April 21st at the Elmcor Gym in Corona, N.Y.

The winners of the Final Four contests will square-off in the Championship Game, Sunday, April 22nd at 3:00 PM at the Elmcor Gym in Corona, N.Y.

Catch up with all your favorite players and teams by visiting the Eastern Basketball Alliance website.

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EL SALVADOR

Standings - Liga Superior

LEBES Standings

1. UTEC		5-1
2. Leones		4-1
3. San Marcos		4-1
4. Denver		3-2
5. Delgadense		2-2
6. ExSAL		2-3
7. Roll Royce		1-5
8. Chaleco		0-6

Last First Division games - by Jaime Arevalo

Thursday, April 12

SAN MARCOS - ROLL ROYCE 90- 79 (Oscar Rivera (190-F-80) 26, Miguel Banos (186-F/C-84) 20; Leonardo Hernandez (G-94) 28, Kevin Gutierrez 11)

ExSAL - LEONES-AUTOMOTO 68-56 (Martin Ignacio Ramos (170-PG-92) 24, Mario Flores (183-G-85) 11; Hugo Salazar (189-F-81) 19, Arturo Escamilla (185-F-77) 18)

Saturday, April 14

ROLL ROYCE 64 - UTEC 70 (Leonardo Hernandez 17; Jorge Loucel (186-F-90) 23, Manuel Artiga (196-F/C-83) 14)

DENVER 87 - CHALECO 52 (Mauricio Lahud (176-PG-84) 23, Douglas Baires (180-G) 14; Mario Flamenco 11, Jose Arce 11)

After the first fall of Leones to ExSal, UTEC leads the table with a 5-1 record

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EUROCUP

Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 1st Team 2011-2012

Planinic

Beverley

Seibutis

Caner-Medley

Valanciunas

Final Four MVP: Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky
Player of the Year: Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88) of Spartak SP
Guard of the Year: Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88) of Spartak SP
Forward of the Year: Niklas Caner-Medley (203-F-83) of Valencia
Center of the Year: Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of Lietuvos rytas
European Player of the Year: Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky
Import of the Year: Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88) of Spartak SP
Coach of the Year: Rimas Kurtinaitis of Khimky

1st Team
PG: Patrick Beverley (185-88) of Spartak SP
G: Zoran Planinic (199-82) of Khimky
G: Renaldas Seibutis (195-85) of Lietuvos rytas
F: Niklas Caner-Medley (203-83) of Valencia
C: Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) of Lietuvos rytas

2nd Team
G: Ramel Curry (192-80) of BC Donetsk
G: Vitaly Fridzon (195-85) of Khimky
F: Pavel Pumprla (200-86) of CEZ Nymburk
F: Jeremiah Massey (202-82) of Lokomotiv
C: Bojan Dubljevic (205-91) of Buducnost

3rd Team
G: DaShaun Wood (185-85) of ALBA
G: Yotam Halperin (196-84) of Spartak SP
F: Charles Davis (202-84) of Banvit BK
F: Kresimir Loncar (210-83) of Khimky
C: Ali Traore (207-85) of Lokomotiv

Honorable Mention
Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) of Benetton TV
Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) of Krka
Baris Ermis (194-G-85) of Banvit BK
Kim Tillie (210-F-88) of ASVEL
Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-C-84) of VEF Riga
Nando De Colo (202-G-87) of Valencia

All-Europeans Team
G: Vitaly Fridzon (195-85) of Khimky
G: Zoran Planinic (199-82) of Khimky
G: Renaldas Seibutis (195-85) of Lietuvos rytas
F: Pavel Pumprla (200-86) of CEZ Nymburk
C: Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) of Lietuvos rytas

All-Imports Team
PG: Patrick Beverley (185-88) of Spartak SP
G: DaShaun Wood (185-85) of ALBA
G: Ramel Curry (192-80) of BC Donetsk
F: Jeremiah Massey (202-82) of Lokomotiv
F: Niklas Caner-Medley (203-83) of Valencia

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EUROLEAGUE

Nenad Krstic out with broken foot - by Eurobasket News

Bad news for CSKA Moscow and its starting center Nenad Krstic (213-C-83). The 28-year-old Krstic played last three weeks with the broken foot and he even didn't know the injury is that serious. At this moment it is not clear how long Krstic will be sidelined, but his appearance at the Euroleague Final Four in Istanbul is definitely under the question mark. Nenad Krstic is one of the key CSKA players this season. He had 14.7 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 20 Euroleague games. In Russia, Krstic added 10.2 ppg and 3.2 rpg, while almost the same numbers he also had in VTB United league. Nenad Krstic joined CSKA last summer from the NBA. He split last season between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics. Krstic played for Triumph Lyubertsy in 2008/09. He is active member of the Serbian National Team.

Euroleague Basketball announces principles of an agreement with the VTB United League - by Eurobasket News

Euroleague Basketball and the United League have agreed to the principles of an agreement to integrate the United League into the Euroleague Basketball competition structure. Euroleague Basketball President and CEO Jordi Bertomeu, and United League President Sergey Ivanov announced the principles during a press conference in Khimki prior to the Eurocup Finals.

Euroleague Basketball understands that the European club basketball scene has evolved over the past few years in many ways, and Euroleague Basketball are constantly listening to its clubs to work together to find solutions to the challenges they face. The United League has been a competition in existence for the past three seasons without any type of integration. The United League competition has grown due to the clubs needs for more games of a higher quality on a more frequent basis. The Euroleague competition will from the 2012-13 season have an expanded Top 16 phase in order to help meet this need, whilst the clubs in the region have also increased their participation in the United League during the past period. Euroleague Basketball at their last General Assembly in October 2011 approved regulations regarding clubs simultaneous participation in multiple leagues with the aim of creating a debate in the region. This was due to the current situation creating excessive confusion amongst fans, participants, partners and the media. Following a period of consultation with stakeholders in the region including clubs, leagues and national federations, Euroleague Basketball and the United League have agreed to a number of principles. They are the following:

- Maintain the same number of places in the Euroleague and Eurocup competitions for each country
- Integrate the United League into the Euroleague Basketball competition structure
- Maintain space in the clubs competitions calendar so that each United League participant can also play in their National League

Both parties will continue to work together to elaborate the final proposal that will be presented to the Euroleague Basketball General Assembly and United League Board for approval at the end of the 2011-12 season, protecting and maintaining the current distribution of countries and licenses.

In accordance with Euroleague Basketball policy, the agreement will be presented to the relevant stakeholders in the European basketball community including ULEB and FIBA Europe.

Mr. Sergey Ivanov: VTB United League president and Chief of Staff Presidential Administration of Russia

'I am very delighted to announce that the VTB United League will be in the Euroleague country ranking. The main idea is that the results of the VTB United League will give permission for the clubs to go to the Euroleague and the Eurocup. The format for the future will be discussed at the VTB United League board meeting, which will be held at our final four. There, all the details will be announced. Concerning the qualification to the Euroleague, it will change..'

Mr. Jordi Bertomeu: Euroleague Basketball President and CEO

'We are here with some good news we want to explain and communicate. Something that we wanted when we came here, after months of talks with many partners involved, but mainly with the VTB United League representatives. I am glad to say we have completed an agreement today about principles in order to integrate the VTB United League into the Euroleague Basketball structure. It's a fact now, and I am confident that from now until the end of the season, we will close the details that need to be fixed. The main principles are already in place. I want to thank everyone involved: clubs, national leagues and federations, because all this month there has been a very open discussion to come to this agreement.

'So we have in front of us a new period. We are all excited about this new path we have. When Mr. Ivanov, the VTB United League president explains the details, you will realize how we can manage to solve a situation that is complex, but thanks to everyone renouncing something of their own, we all have achieved a great deal.

Courtesy of Euroleague

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FINLAND

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 23.2

1. Blue, KTP	23.2
2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	20.1
3. Crocker, KTP	19.4
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.2
5. Durham, Salon Vilp.	18.9
6. Brooks, Namika L.	18.6
7. Holloway, Salon V.	18.3
8. Newson, Kataja	18.3
9. Hannah, Kauhajoki	18.3
10. Hawkins, ToPo	18.3

Rebounds Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	12.2
2. Durham, Salon Vilp.	11.2
3. Blue, KTP	10.5
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.8
5. Williams, Pyrinto	9.8
6. Newson, Kataja	8.7
7. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.6
8. McDade, Nilan B.	8.4
9. Brown, Kouvot	8.1
10. Hamm, LrNM.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Moore, Namika L.	5.2
2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	4.8
3. Haynes, LrNM.	4.8
4. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.5
5. Williams, Pyrinto	4.3
6. Sarcevic, KTP	4.2
7. Virtanen, Kataja	3.9
8. Walker, Kataja	3.8
9. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.4
10. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	3.3

Steals Per Game

Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.3
2. Williams, Pyrinto	2.3
3. Moore, Korihait	2.2
4. Williams, Pyrinto	2.0
5. Holloway, Salon V.	1.8
6. Sarcevic, KTP	1.7
7. Haynes, LrNM.	1.7
8. Newson, Kataja	1.6
9. Jordan, Kouvot	1.6
10. Moore, Namika L.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Beidler, Kauhajoki	1.9
2. Fields, Salon Vilp.	1.8
3. Blue, KTP	1.5
4. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	1.0
5. Williams, Pyrinto	0.9
6. Hamm, LrNM.	0.8
7. Lehtoranta, Kataja	0.8
8. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.7
9. Mottola, ToPo	0.7
10. McDade, Nilan B.	0.6

KORISLIIGA: KTP - Pyrinto 111-107 after OT - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, quarter-finals, game # 4: What a thriller at Kotka. KTP fighting into OT (93-93) vs Pyrinto (Tampere) and defeating then the visitors 111-107 (43-48) in front of 1197 spectators. There were 13 lead changes and nine ties before it was clear these two teams need Game # 5 and first then we will know which team makes it into the semi-finals.
Tony Crocker (201-G/F-87, college: Oklahoma) (KTP) made two FTs and tied the game at time 39:50. The same man blocked Damon Williams (201-F-73, agency: Two Points, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) shot and OT was needed. These two American players were again in the stats, when Crocker stole the ball from D.Williams at time 44:56. Tim Blue (205-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) led KTP with 38 pts (1 - 6/9, 2 - 10/17, 3 - 4/8) and 12 rbs. Crocker added 31 pts. D. Williams leading Pyrinto with 37pts (1 - 6/11, 2 - 5/14, 3 - 7/11) and 21 rbs. DW was playing over 15 minutes (4th quarter+OT) with four fouls. Starter Jukka Matinen (203-F-78) (KTP) instead played only 1:53 minutes and left the court. KTP - Pyrinto 2-2. Game # 5 on Wednesday, April 18 in Tampere.
Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) has made the semi-finals and sent Karhu (Kauhajoki) into summer vacation. ToPo was 10 points better than Karhu tonight: 82-72 (44-36). Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.) was back on his own level (19 pts) and Hanno Mottola (209-F/C-76, college: Utah) added 16 pts. Kelly Beidler (199-F-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Mt.St.Mary's) led Karhu with 22pts/9rbs. Vesa Makalainen (200-F-86) added 19pts. ToPo - Karhu 3-1.
KTP - Pyrinto OT 111-107 (93) (43-48). (Tim Blue 38/12, Tony Crocker 31, Bojan Sarcevic 14 - Damon Williams 37/21/5, Antwine Williams 24, Antero Lehto 19. A: 1197).
ToPo - Karhu 82-72 (44-36). (Justin Hawkins 19, Hanno Mottola 16, Chase Griffin 13 - Kelly Beidler 22/9, Vesa Makalainen 19, Clevin Hannah 14/8a. A: 1132).

Torpan Pojat reach the semis - by Eurobasket News

ToPo - Kauhajoki 82-72 (3-1)

The game was mostly controlled by Torpan Pojat. Kauhajoen Karhu was better in fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torpan Pojat made 24-of-26 charity shots (92.3 percent) during the game. Kauhajoen Karhu was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The winners were led by American forward Justin Hawkins (201-85, college: N.Mexico St.) who scored that evening 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his eight free throws) and international forward Kimmo Muurinen (202-81, college: UALR) supported him with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Four Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. Torpan Pojat's coach Tomi Kaminen allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 22 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Kelly Beidler (199-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's, agency: R.H.Consultancy) did not help to save the game for Kauhajoen Karhu. International forward Vesa Makalainen (200-86) added 19 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for lost side.
Top scorers:
ToPo: J.Hawkins 19+7reb+4ast, H.Mottola 16+5reb, C.Griffin 13+5reb+2ast, K.Muurinen 12+9reb+1ast, C.Lindbom 7+3reb, J.Kyllonen 6+1reb+2ast
Kauhajoki: K.Beidler 22+9reb+1ast, V.Makalainen 19+6reb, C.Hannah 14+3reb+8ast, I.Vuori 6+2reb+3ast, H.Hirvikoski 5+1reb, C.Reed 3+2reb+1ast

KTP - Pyrinto 111-107 (2-2)

Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when KTP-Basket made 8 blocks. 28 personal fouls committed by Tampereen Pyrinto helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 4 blocks and swingman Tony Crocker (201-87, college: Oklahoma) who added 31 points during the contest. At the losing side forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo, agency: Two Points) responded with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 21 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) scored 24 points and 7 rebounds. Four Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
KTP: T.Blue 38+12reb, T.Crocker 31+4reb, B.Sarcevic 14+1reb+3ast, M.Pounds 12+2reb+1ast, J.Williams 8+6reb+2ast, J.Lehtoranta 8+7reb+3ast
Pyrinto: D.Williams 37+21reb+5ast, A.Williams 24+7reb, A.Lehto 19+4reb, K.Lowe 15+3reb, O.Ahvenniemi 7+2reb, A.Nikkila 3+2reb

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GAMBIA

Saint Augustine's SSS Crowned Basketball Champions - by Eurobasket News

The Inter - Secondary Schools Basketball Championship Finals organised by the Gambia Secondary School Sports Association (GSSSA) ended Saturday at the Serekunda West mini stadium with Saint Augustine's Senior Secondary School beating Gambia Senior Secondary School 29-21 to win the championship.

The game was played in a sparkling atmosphere as both sides aimed at winning the encounter and started the game brightly. After the game, the victorious coach of Saint Augustine, Ebrima Mbye said his side's victory was made possible by the encouragement they received from the school authorities notably the principal and vice principal as they provided everything the players needed.

For his part, the Gambia Senior Secondary School coach, Abdul Aziz Mendy said he took the loss in good faith and congratulated the victors. Meanwhile, in the women's final played earlier, St Peter's Senior Secondary School emerged victorious after beating Methodist Academy 10-6. Each side were awarded a trophy and cash prizes for their efforts.
Courtesy of: The Daily Observer (Banjul)

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GERMANY

Darryl Webb (Crailsheim Merlins) I Think MBC Is Very Much Beatable And I Think We Can Steal A Road Win In This Series - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Darryl Webb (198-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Indiana, PA) is a 24 year old 198cm forward from Elkridge, Maryland. He is playing his first season in Germany in the PRO A for the Crailsheim Merlins. He played at Indiana, PA (NCAA2) from 2007-2011 playing a total of 126 NCAA 2 games. In his senior season, he played 32 games: 17.4ppg, 10.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 49.6%, 3Pts: 29.1%, 72.6%. He helped carry the Crailsheim Merlins past the Webmoebel Baskets in game 4 with 39 points. He spoke to eurobasket about game 4 and the next series against the Mitteldeutscher BC.

Congrats to the 111-77 win against the Webmoebel Baskets and advancing to the semifinals. How pissed was the team after losing game three by three points?

They werent really pissed, I think they were a little more disappointed if anything because they wanted to force a game 5 which was something we didnt want especially since that is one heck of a drive.

Crailsheim had the 47-41 lead at halftime. What did Ingo Enskat tell the team to do better in the second half?

We needed to get more stops and get out in transition. Also our 1 on 1 defense not letting them penetrate and kick it out to the shooters or even get to the rim for easy layups.

His words must of sunk in with the team as the team exploded and won the second half 64-36. What was key for getting the win in the last 20 minutes?

It was just a matter of getting stops, getting out in transition and knocking down our shots and finishing at the rim. Also weve been struggling as far as free throws so going 19-24 helped as well.

You have been solid all season long and had some high scoring games including scoring in double figures 24 times. You seemed to save your best for last with 39 points. Were you feeling like you were in the zone?

Yea I was really feeling it getting rebounds, hitting some 3s, and knocking down all of my free throws, but when it comes down to it was the guards who really helped me have a big night, every time they drove the lane they were always looking for me, and also calling a lot of plays for me.

Crailsheim outrebounded Paderborn and dished out 20 assists. What was another big strength in this game that helped the Merlins to win the game?

Having 20 assists was really big because we just shared the ball really well but it was our defense in the second half that really got us going on offense and knocking down shots.

Your 39 points were big and might have kept the performance of your teammate Aaron Cook in the shadows. How big was the production of Cook on this night?

Him having 26 and 8 was big he was all over the court defensively, and on offense. He was knocking down 3s getting into the lane and looking to dish it out to one of our shooters or drop it off to one of the centers.

How much fun was it dueling against American Jefferson Mason?

I didnt have the chance of getting to guard him except a few times, but to me hes really good. He rebounds, can get to the rim and can knock down the 3. With his size and his skills hes definitely going to help a lot of teams out especially with what he can do.

How exciting is it for you to be able to playoffs coming from the NCAA? How was the atmosphere in game four and what was your favorite play in the game?

The atmosphere last was great, but then again the Merlins fans always are crazy every home game and even away games theyre always creating a great atmosphere for us. As for my favorite play of the game I would have to say the 3 I made at the end of the shot clock but the referees took it away haha.

What in this 4 game series was key for being able to advance to the next round?

Theyre the best 3 point shooting team in the league I think and the main thing they do is penetrate and kick it out to the shooters, so thats something we really couldnt let them do, staying out on the shooters and fake helping when a guard penetrated really worked well for us.

Crailsheim split the season series against MBC 1-1. What will be key to winning this series against the best team in the PRO A?

Were going to have to really play defense and rebound well against them they have home court advantage so we cant get out of sync when they are making runs at us. We have to play team basketball like we did in the first round and really work when it comes down to playing 1 on 1 defense.

How hungry are the Melrins to beat MBC? Aaron Cook will be playing against his old team and see if he can cage the wolves! Lol

Me personally I think MBC is very much beatable and I think we can steal a road win this series. Aaron going back to MBC Im sure hes excited and ready even though hes not showing it.

How dangerous can it be to be an NBA mascot? David West accidently sent the Cavaliers mascot moondog to the hospital with an eye injury. How have you been taken by the mascots in the PRO A?

I havent really seen any mascots but if I did I probably just didnt pay attention to them but having mascots can always be a good thing especially for the younger kids. as for the NBA mascots those guys are out there doing all types of crazy stuff so yea I think it is dangerous but they're doing something they love.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was Billy Madison one of my favorite Adam Sandler movies .

Thanks Darryl for the chat.

Jermareo Davidson Doesnt Need An Apron Cleaning Up The 4th Quarter Leading The Fraport Skyliners Past TBB Trier 72-52 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Watching a Jimmy Mckinney cross over that leads to a step back jumper, Jared Jordan to Tony Gaffney ally-op smash dunk for the seemingly 100th time, Isaiah Swann showing that Maryland sneer getting angry and saving ratiopharm Ulm in crunch time once again or Artland Dragon point guard David Holston sneaking into the lane and scoring in the lane unscathed are all things that beko BBL fans strive to see happen each weekend in warm and cold times. However in the dead of winter especially when your living in Finland where its dark almost all day long and freezing, getting up to enjoy basketball can be tough especially going on road trips. However one place that the Fraport Skyliners have witnessed in rather warm times the last four years has been Trier. In three of the last four years, the team has experienced the warmth of the Mosel city in March, April and May. Two seasons ago, they started the Beko BBL season in Trier in October so the team hasnt felt and blistery brittle air of winter therehe last years. Despite the warm air, the Fraport Skyliners havent always had luck losing three of four games the last years in warmer weather in Trier. However last year, the team enjoyed a big 69-61 road win in April as Skyliner Quantez Robertson seemed destined for revenge after another second place finish in the Beko BBL allstar day slam dunk contest in Trier and with the playoff hopes still very much on the horizon for the Frankfurt club, the American from Cincinnati with a supporting cast were able to win their second game in a row in Trier beating TBB Trier 72-52. Robertson seems to have found a small place in his heart for Trier even if he cant really admit it. A win is a win no matter in what gym I play. It is always fun to play in this gym and I was able to come up with some good play, stressed Quantez Robertson. TBB Trier guard and good friend of NBA superstar Lebron James Dru Joyce seemed very somber after the loss and sensed an extra motivation by Robertson. Robertson did a good job today. Maybe he has that extra motivation to do well here. Frankfurt stepped it up as a team turning on the faucet and we just couldnt turn it off, expressed ex ratiopharm Ulm guard Dru Joyce. It doesnt matter if Mckinney has lost in one place a lot of times he has a home everywhere. I have been in this league now six years and I feel comfortable in all gyms, smilied Jimmy Mckinney.

The Fraport Skyliners have been going up in a positive trend winning their fifth game in a row as the post season becomes more and more a reality. After a so so start, the Fraport Skyliners found their rhythm to 100% in the second quarter and stepped up their defensive intensity controlling the game until the end and never leaving even a crack open in the door for TBB trier to crawl back in. The victory also was a sweet birthday win for Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak. This was a very nice birthday win for me. We started very focused and were very concentrated. We had the eight point lead at halftime and picked up our defense in the third quarter keeping the lead and letting up only seven points, stressed Kamil Novak. The Fraport Skyliners continue to belong to the top defensive teams in the Beko BBL as it was their seventh game this season holding the opponent under 60 points. We needed some time to find our rhythm, but you have to give TBB Trier credit, they are a very good defensive team. We were definitely in the zone on defense. We kept pushing and we achieved step five and next weekend Tuebingen will be step 6, smiled ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi. For TBB Trier, they have had a spiral trend going down as they have lost five games in a row and are dangerously close to the last places with only one win more than a Ludwigsburg, Giessen and Phoenix Hagen. A lot has changed in the five months since the 64-54 TBB Trier win in Frankfurt. Frankfurt plays with a lot more intensity on defense than in the first game this season. We have the season in our own hands now. All we need is one more win in the last two games, stressed ex Alba Berlin center Andreas Seiferth. The long season for Dru Joyce is almost over and one could sense in his eyes that he might take a few days to digest this loss. I thought that we played pretty good basketball for 20 minutes. One could see that Frankfurt slowly had their rhythm at the end of the second quarter. Davidson and Mckinney hit big shots in the second half and we had some defensive let downs in the second half. We really missed John Bynum at the defensive end. He allows us to be able to different things on offense, added Dru Joyce.

A great thing about the city of Trier is that it is very close to the Benelux countries and often gives ex TBB Trier players the chance to make a road trip from France or Belgium back to their old stomping ground to inspect the current Mosel team. 2010 Beko BBL slam dunk contest winner Jamal Shuler who played for TBB Trier from 2008-2010 and now plays for Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-Pro A) was back in town to see his ex team and exchanged some brief words with Quantez Robertson who had finished second to him at the slam dunk contest in Bonn in 2010. Tez is always super freaky on the court, joked Jamal Shuler. Shuler also had a long chat with ex teammate Samy Picard. Ex team mate Chris Copeland who plays in Belgium and played for TBB Trier some years ago was scheduled to also visit, but had a unexpected practice after losing to 5-20 club Verviers-Pepinster on the weekend. The TBB Trier arena was full, but got loud quickly as the game was even in the first two minutes. German national player Tim Ohlbrecht started off with a witty defensive stop on Zirbes, then hit a hook shot over Zirbes and then got a steal. Zirbes even the score at 2-2 with a lay in after getting a quick pass from Joyce. Jacob Burtschi and Joyce traded buckets as the score was 4-4. Jimmy Mckinney then dropped two consecutive three pointers as the Frankfurt offense was sparked by strong defense. Jacob Burtschi brought his game to another level as the hustling Oklahoma forward spent about as much time on the floor in the first half diving for loose balls like Boris Becker did for tennis balls back in the day as there was a spurt where he had three steals in a row which felt more like 10 steals. Burtschi was playing at another level. He gives everything to the team. It seems like he has been on the floor 10 times diving for loose balls, joked Jamal Shuler. After the win, Burtschi stayed humble, but also showed his humorous side. I am used to diving, but before this game there was a youth game and the court was still slippery, smiled Jacob Burtschi. Mckinney was hit with three fouls and had to exit which TBB Trier used to their advantage. Basketball is a game of runs and after the rapid fire power of the Fraport Skyliners, TBB Trier was able to bounce back going on a 11-3 run to lead 15-13 after one quarter. James Washington hit a desperation shot form the corner, Joyce scored inside and ex Alba Berlin forward Phillip Zwiener hit two consecutive jumpers. Both teams came out setting a nice tempo. The three fouls which Mckinney got hurt the Skyliners which got TBB Trier into the game. TBB Trier was penetrating much and I thought that they could of utilized the pick and role more, added Jamal Shuler. We had problem with the early foul trouble, but we were able to compensate it, come back well and hold the lead later in the game, expressed Skyliner center Tim Ohlbrecht. TBB Trier was shooting 46% from the field and 0% from outside while The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 33% from the field and 60% from outside. TBB Trier had the 11-6 rebound edge, but five turnovers while Frankfurt had four turnovers.

In the second quarter, there were a few runs and five lead changes before the Fraport Skyliners could settle into halftime with a comfortable lead. The Fraport Skyliners retrieved the lead 21-17 as Michael Thompson hit a big three pointer and scored inside, bothe times being fed basketball caviar in terms of perfect passes from Devin Gibson who was doing a solid job as playmaker. After Seifert free throws, it was Thompson that nailed another three pointer that was set up again by Gibson as Frankfurt led 24-19. They played well together and were a good one two punch, commented Jamal Shuler. However the Fraport Skyliners were incapable of withstanding a arsenal of three pointers from Luxemburg native Samy Picard and Serb Dragan Dojcin who gave TBB Trier the 25-24 advantage. However the Fraport Skyliners got the lead back and ended the second quarter with 14-7 run to lead comfortably 39-31. Skyliner captain Marius Nolte got an easy bucket inside which was followed by a furious Quantez Robertson spin move around baffled Phillip Zwiener and a steal by Robertson which led to a Burtschi fast break hoop. Ex NBA player Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) was inserted and prompt scored inside. Robertson continued to be every TBB Triers athletic nightmare as he scored inside and made a free throw for the Frankfurt 35-28 lead. Davidson scored on a mid distance jumper and seemed destined for a big second half. The Skyliners were playing with a very high intensity at both ends of the court. Tez and Gibson were huge factors in the second quarter for Frankfurt being able to open up the game, said Jamal Shuler. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 45% from the field and 67% from the three point line while TBB Trier was shooting 39% from the field and 100% from the three point line. TBB Trier still ha dthe rebound advantage at 17-14, but nine turnovers while Frankfurt had six turnovers.

In the third quarter, both teams took a step back from offense as defense played the major role in the ten minute quarter as Frankfurt could extend their lead while not scoring so much, but giving up only seven points. TBB Trier guard James Washington who hails from ST Louis and is friends with Mckinney started off the third quarter with a sweet catch and pop as TBB Trier trailed only 39-34. Maybe Washington was able to learn something form Mckinney during the last summer with his shooting, smiled Jamal Shuler. Mckinney reacted with his own version of a catch an dpop jumper as Frankfurt led 42-36. Washington kept up his stellar rookie play hitting a runner on the fast break as TBB Trier trailed only 42-36. However the TBB Trier scoring frenzy was abruptly halted as the Fraport Skyliners continued to halt giving the opponent any real space to penetrate and allowing only tough shots going on a strong 9-2 run to close out the third quarter 51-38. Ohlbrecht was playing heads up defense against Maik Zirbes hardly giving him any touches in the low post. Burtschi started the run getting an offensive rebound and getting a put back, Mckinney dropped a step back jumper and finished the third quarter with a crazy buzzer beater from the corner that even got a chuckle from Jermareo Davidson. Frankfurt really picked up their energy after a slow start. They showed that they had many weapons that could step up at anytime. Ohlbrecht was the stopper on defense getting rebounds, blocking shots and really smothering Zirbes. He seemed lost in the zone, commented Jamal Shuler. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 42% from the field and 50% from the parking lot while TBB Trier was shooting 33% from the field and 60% from the parking lot. TBB Trier still had the slight 25-23 rebound edge, but 13 turnovers while Frankfurt only had 10 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, The Fraport Skyliners were able to extend their lead and were able to put their offense up a gear while keeping their consistent defense giving TBB Trier problems to get easy baskets. Davidson returned back into the game and smoked young German Andreas Seiferth with his patent fade away jumper, while Seiferth returned back up the floor scoring a nifty lay in over Davidson. Davidson seemed to have his target picked out and burned Seiferth again with a fade away jumper as TBB Trier trailed 56-40. TBB Trier had had quite some misfortune missing easy lay ups, but then had some fortune as Joyce was able to convert with hard penetration, but Robertson showed he could do the same as he scored hard to the hole with his left hand. Gibson was back with his successful penetration and dish pass finding Burtschi for the easy lay up. TBB Trier was getting tired and was having continued problems with the Frankfurt annoying defense. TBB Trier was telegraphing their passes making it easy for Frankfurt to come up with steals, added Jamal Shuler. The aggressive defense was still leading to fast break buckets as Mckinney converted as Frankfurt led 62-42. Gibson then lost sight of Joyce for a second and was burned with an open three pointer. Davidson was still in the game and three was a charm for him as he burned Seiferth for the third time as Frankfurt led 64-45. Davidson is hard to guard, but he got good help from Mckinney and Tez. I should of forced him to penetrate more, but he opted to shoot more, stressed Andreas Seiferth. After Washington free throws, it was time for another Davidson fade away jumper this time over Zirbes as Frankfurt led 66-47. Davidson is aggressive on offense and defense and can finish with authority and can shoot. He has the NBA game and I expect him to be back in the NBA. Muli Katzurin had a prefect game plan, getting a nice lead and then letting Davidson clean up from the bench in the fourth quarter, warned Jamal Shuler. Jermareo Davidosn took care of business in the fourth quarter, warned Jacob Burtschi. After Linhart scored, it was Mckinney again with a catch and pop jumper as Frankfurt led 68-49. Mckinney is so consistent and probbaly one of best pure shooters in the league. That is what you want to see from the leader taking the important shots, added Jamal Shuler. With the clock winding down, Zirbes and Davidson traded buckets at the end as the Fraport Skyliners were able to win their third game in a row on the road. This was a great team effort by Frankfurt. Mckinney had the hot end and Ohlbrecht and Davidson had great games at both ends of the court. Gibosn and Burtschi set the tempo at the start getting team going, said Jamal Shuler. We had some let downs on offense in the third quarter. I thought that we did a pretty good job penetrating in the game, but we were unable to make our shots on a consistent basis and were unable to stop their runs, stressed Dru Joyce.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jermareo Davidson with 19 points. Jimmy Mckinney produced 18 points while Jacob Burtschi contributed 14 points and eight rebounds. TBB Trier was led by Dru Joyce with 11 points, four rebounds and four assists. The Fraport Skyliners had a very productive shooting day at 48% from the field and 44% from downtown while TBB Trier struggled at 32% from the field and 36% from downtown. After trailing the first three quarters on the boards, the Fraport Skyliners were able to win the rebound battle in the fourth quarter 33-29. They also did a solid job winning the second chance points and fast break buckets. The Frankfurt defense continues to be the back bone of the team and it seems it is sending chills down the spines of opponents. Jamal Shuler is very athletic, but the way we are playing defense now, I dont think that he could have been much help for TBB Trier. Our defense is scary and teams seem to be afraid to play us, added Jimmy Mckinney. Even though defense was a big factor in the win, dealing with hardship was also overcome. Our biggest strength today was our dealing with adversity. We had some tough situations that didnt go our way, but we didnt get down, but bounced back getting big shots from Jimmy Mckinney, stressed Jacob Burtschi. With so many match points the last weeks, this win might have been the ultimate match ball. This win was a very important step for us. We have to stay concentrated and take the next step and win the next home game. I hope it isnt our last home game, warned Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak.

Ratiopharm Ulm Run Away With 2012 Beko BBL Awards - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The way that ratiopharm Ulm have been playing their cinderella season in 2011-2012, it was no real surprise that head coach Thorsten Leibenath would win coach of the year and California native John Bryant would win MVP. Leibenath who has led the Schwaben team and had it near the top of the Beko BBL standings from the start tipoff in October 2011 won gaining 146 votes while 2011 winner Chris Fleming of the Brose Baskets Bamberg came in second place with 128 points. Ex BG Goettingen skipper John Patrick who has led his new team s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg into the playoffs recieved 51 votes.

In the 2012 MVP voting, 2011 MVP Dashaun Wood wasnt able to defend his title as ratiopharm Ulm center John Bryant walked away with the honors with 131 votes. Bryant who is the most effective player in the beko BBL averaging 14,2ppg and 9,4rpg and has dominated his position since enetring the league in 2010 got 131 votes. Ex NBA player PJ Tucker got 83 votes and Wood went home with 53 votes. The Beko BBL also announced the 2011-2012 beko BBL Allstar teams first and second teams.

Beko BBL-All-First-Team
Point Guard: DaShaun Wood (ALBA BERLIN)
Shooting Guard: Isaiah Swann (ratiopharm ulm)
Small Forward: Casey Jacobsen (Brose Baskets)
Power Forward: P.J. Tucker (Brose Baskets)
Center: John Bryant (ratiopharm Ulm)

Beko BBL-All-Second-Team
Point Guard: Jared Jordan (Telekom Baskets Bonn)
Shooting Guard: Anton Gavel (Brose Baskets)
Small Forward: Bryce Taylor (ALBA BERLIN)
Power Forward: Chevon Troutman (FC Bayern Mnchen)
Center: Tibor Plei (Brose Baskets)

Source: beko-bbl.de

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GREECE

2012 Bellegarde-Sur-Valserine: Turkey edge Greece to win the tournament - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Greece U16 70:51

Turkey celebrated victory at the Bellegarde-Sur-Valserine international tournament in France. They overcame their Greek counterparts on the final day of the competition to seal the top position. Mert Cevik (195-G-96) came up with 15 points to lead the winners. Greece finished in the second spot in the ladder.
Turkey held their opponents to just 7 points in the first term to surge ahead. They built a 13:7 lead after ten minutes. But Greece took over in the second quarter. They capped the half on a 13:4 run to establish a 31:28 halftime lead. Turkey nevertheless quickly regained the advantage. They spurred back in front in the third term and accumulated a 55:49 lead with one quarter remaining. Turkey stayed in control throughout the final stanza. They opened a double-digit lead and never looked back en route to the victory. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) posted 13 points, while Mehmet Alemdaroglu (205-F-96) added 9 points in the win. Kostas Zorzos answered with 16 points for Greece. Vassilis Toliopoulos netted 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Mert Cevik 15, Ogulcan Baykan 13, Mehmet Alemdaroglu 9
Greece U16: Kostas Zorzos 16, Vassilis Toliopoulos 9

A1 playoffs: How the teams entering that challenge - by Diamadis Farmakis

The playoffs of the A1 league are about to begin. Many things are ''in stake''. The Greek championship and the third place which leads in the Euroleague, are just two of them. But how the eight teams are entering that phase of the league? Some of them have high expectations and others just want to finish the season in a nice way. Let's examine this years playoffs, team by team.

Kolossos rodou: A team that seems to be a big suprise this year, but... it's not. Kolossos kept it's roster the same, from the start, with great chemistry among the players and a great coach, Kostas Fragias. Coach Fragias, chose three great american players (Marcus Hatten, Scott Hopson, Ruben Boykin) and gave the role of the leader to Aggelos Tsamis. The islanders, were in the first four places of the standings for the hole regular season. They want for sure the qualification to the semifinals.

Kavala: is the opponent of Kolossos in the quarterfinals. It finished in the sixth place last year and they are in the same place this year too. Its a team that faced many problems this year, with many injures and players who left in the middle of the season (Mike Taylor injured, Patrick O'Bryant left to Puerto Rico). Kavala for sure its not heading to the playoffs above the same terms with Kolossos, but they will battle for the next step.

Rethymno: This team amazed everyone. The players of coach Stergios Koufos, played fantastic basketball all the season. Coach Koufos's favorite style of basketball is simple: ''run and gun''. So he chose the best players for that style. Zack Wright, Dionte Christmass and Brent Petway are perfect for that. Rethymno started the season with the enthusiasm of the newcomer and kept that all the way. They will have the home advantage in the quarterfinals, against Panionios.

Panionios: We taliking about a team, which is a special case in Greek sports. It has NO financial problems, thanks to Ilias Lianos, the president and that makes Panionios a team that you always must consider. The players only cares for the game and that makes them very dangerous. Great foreign players ( Alex Stepheson, Billy Keys), great Greeks like Barlos and Xanthopoulos and a coach, Giorgos Bartzokas, who knows the game very well.

Panathinaikos - Olympiakos: Both this two teams, are entering the playoffs, unter the same condtions. They have infront of them the great challenge of the Euroleague final four and coaches Obradovic and Ivkovic will have the difficult job to keep their players focus and with clear minds. From the start of each season, all the basketball fans in Greece, wait for the finals of the league with this two teams battling. ''Greens'' and ''Reds'' won't (propably)face any problems in quarter and semifinals and i guess, we'll have to talk about them again in a month, before the ''best of five'' series, for the championship.

Paok - Aris: This two great teams of the past, are entering the playoffs, with low expectations. That is because they face serious financial problems. They face Olympiacos and Panathinaikos in the quarterfinals and their missions seems.. impossible. Paok and Aris are struggling the last years and they are battling for their existance.

That's how this eight teams, preparing for the playoffs.. We'll see what they will achieve.. Whatever happens to the basketball court, is what matters the most.

Dimitris Tsaldaris agreed terms with Venezia - by George Fragkos

Before the beginning of the Greek playoffs, Aris Thessaloniki and Dimitrios Tsaldaris (195-G/F-80) agreed to part ways. The Greek guard received a very good offer from Umana Venezia and he decided to leave Greece for Italy once again. Tsaldaris will be in Venice on Tuesday to clinch the deal which will keep him at the Serie A side at least up to the end of the season.

The financial struggle Aris face and the very tough job the team from Thessaloniki have to play against Panathinaikos for the playoffs, made the Greek club to let Tsaldaris go as there is almost no reason to keep him since he received such a good offer. After all because of some minor injuries the experienced guard did not manage to help Aris as much as he wanted, though he had a respectable point average of 8 per game in the A1 and 5 per game in the Eurocup.

For Tsaldaris this is the third team in Italy to play for, while in the past he has joined Napoli and Dinamo Sassari. Something that will make his job at Venezia even easier is the fact that the head coach of the team is Andrea Mazzon, a person that the 32-year-old has worked with, when they were both working at Aris.

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HOLLAND

Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Stage Two Standings

Group A
1. Den Bosch		0-0
2. Leeuwarden		0-0
3. Leiden		0-0
Group B
1. Groningen		0-0
2. Nijmegen		0-0
3. Zwolle		0-0
Places 7-8
1. Weert		5-23
2. Rotterdam		4-24

Stage One Standings

Regular Season: Round 32

Apr. 12: Den Bosch - Leeuwarden 97-79
Apr. 14: Zwolle - Nijmegen 89-86
Apr. 14: Leiden - Weert 81-54
Apr. 14: Groningen - Rotterdam 67-53

Second Stage: Round 1

Apr. 19: Den Bosch - Leeuwarden

Apr. 19: Nijmegen - Zwolle

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HUNGARY

A Division, Quarterfinals: No mercy for the guests in Game One - by Eurobasket News

First games of the Hungarian league Quarterfinals are completed last night. Home teams had no mercy for the guests celebrating all four wins. Three games were played on Saturday and one last night. The format is best-of-five and teams will meet again tomorrow. Kesckemeti, Atomeromu, Soproni and PVSK Pannon will be the hosts. After that, teams will meet in Game Three on April 20. If necessary, fourth and fifth games will be played between April 22 and 28. Szolnok is the defending champion from the last season.

Falco-Szova - Soproni 84-82 (1-0)
Soproni was trailing by 8 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 19-11 charge of Falco-Szova, which allowed them to win the game. They made 35-of-42 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Soproni was plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian forward Djordje Pantelic (204-F-84) fired a double-double by scoring 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. The former international guard Laszlo Kalman (186-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) chipped in 21 points and 4 assists (made all of his twelve free throws !!!). Four Falco-Szova players scored in double figures. American guard Janou Rubin (193-82, college: UCLA, agency: Two Points) produced 23 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import guard Dontay Thomas (186-84, college: La Salle) added 19 points and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Falco-Szova: L.Kalman 21+2reb+4ast, D.Pantelic 17+10reb+4ast, Z.Szabo 12+3reb, T.Harazin 10, C.Timberlake 8+4reb+3ast, B.Jancikin 5+2reb
Soproni: J.Rubin 23+5reb+3ast, D.Thomas 19+2reb+5ast, A.Molnar 12+3ast, G.Gombas 9+3reb+1ast, B.Egemonye 9+7reb, R.Keresztes 4+4reb

Kormend - Atomeromu 105-101 OT (1-0)
The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime then Atomeromu managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Kormend who were better in overtime eventually winning that period 17-13. American power forward Darian Townes (208-84) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Csaba Ferencz (194-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) chipped in 26 points and 7 rebounds. Kormend's coach Zoran Martic used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American Nick Williams (192-83, college: Cincinnati, agency: Beo Basket) produced 22 points and international swingman David Vojvoda (191-90, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Kormend and four Atomeromu players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Kormend: C.Ferencz 26+7reb+1ast, D.Townes 21+13reb+2ast, R.Bell 17+9reb+1ast, A.Rujak 16+5ast, I.Nemeth 14+4reb+1ast, G.Fodor 7+1reb+1ast
Atomeromu: N.Williams 22+1reb+3ast, A.Kovacs 18+1reb+2ast, D.Vojvoda 17+6reb+3ast, T.Frost 16+5reb+2ast, A.Toth 12+1reb, T.Kaman 9+3reb+1ast

Albacomp - PVSK Pannon 90-58 (1-0)
The game without a history. Albacomp led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 4 passes made by PVSK Pannon's players. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) fired 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Wayne Chism (206-87, college: Tennessee) chipped in 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Albacomp players scored in double figures. The former international forward Norbert Toth (203-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) produced 8 points and 19 rebounds and American swingman Jara Doyne (193-84, college: Mississippi) added 18 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Albacomp: M.El Amin 20+8reb+4ast, D.Hollis 15+4reb+1ast, W.Chism 12+5reb+4ast, F.Bodi 12+3reb+1ast, R.Hendlein 10+4reb+1ast, A.Madar 8+2reb+2ast
PVSK Pannon: J.Doyne 18+2reb+1ast, A.Ciric 13+5reb, N.Vasojevic 10+2reb+1ast, N.Toth 8+19reb+2ast, A.Deak 3+2reb, A.Csabay 2+2reb

Szolnok - Kecskemeti 72-44 (1-0)
The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-44.

Jozsef Lekli will play for Albacomp in the next season - by Tamas Deri

The management of Albacomp just published some hours ago, that they already signed a new player for the next season. The 206 cm tall, 25 years old Jozsef Lekli (206-F/C-87, agency: TSS Management) run a good season with Kaposvar averaging 10.6 points and 5.6 rebounds in 25.8 minutes per game. The season 2010-11 he spent with NYKK and put up 13.1 points and 6.6 rebounds in 8 games of the regular season as he got injured and was redshirted for the rest of the season.

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IBA

Coffino is the new Albany Legend's Head Coach - by Gianni Pascucci

The NY Albany Legends have come to contract terms with John Coffino as their new Head Coach.
Coffino comes to the Legends with an extensive coaching resume, including two years an NBA D League head coach. The selection promises to provide the key leadership component to an organization built on providing quality, affordable minor league basketball, community focus and player development opportunities around the world.
'Today is an exciting day for this organization and basketball fans in our area. We are thrilled that we have reached an agreement with Coach. This organization is proud of the reputation we have built in a short time period and Coach Coffino will bring his stellar reputation, along with a wide spectrum of talents, contacts and coaching experience to our organization and fans, who demand excellence, on and off the floor. We have every confident expectation that Coach will take this team to that next level. This is a great match' stated Nicholas Dean , GM of the Legends.
Coach Coffino remarked: 'I am thrilled and honored to be part of the Albany Legends organization. I look forward to joining an already successful team and to the development of the players here as well as basketball in the community. The franchise considers the local community a valuable member of its extended family and the opportunity to contribute to the community for local youth is an essential component of its overall mission.'
Coach Coffino will be arriving in Albany Wednesday, April 18 and will be on the bench for the Friday, April 20 game against the 8-1 Gary Splash

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ICELAND

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Robert JARVIS
  IR
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 24

1. Jarvis, IR	24.0
2. Govens, Thor Thorl	23.8
3. Echols, Njardvik	22.4
4. Walkup, Fjolnir	22.2
5. Holmes, Njardvik	21.9
6. Cole, Keflavik	21.0
7. Bullock, Grindavik	20.8
8. Sovic, IR	20.5
9. Brown, KR	20.3
10. O''Neil, Fjolnir	20.2

Rebounds Per Game

Quincy HANKINS-COLE
  Snaef.
  (203-F-90)
  Avg: 13

1. Hankins-Cole, Snae.	13.0
2. Hairston, Thor T.	12.3
3. Echols, Njardvik	11.1
4. Smith, Haukar	10.7
5. Tratnik, Valur	10.4
6. Cole, Keflavik	10.3
7. Walkup, Fjolnir	10.1
8. Bullock, Grindavik	9.9
9. Lindmets, Stjarnan	8.5
10. Magnusson, KR	8.2

Assists Per Game

Justin SHOUSE
  Stjarnan
  (180-G-81)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Shouse, Stjarnan	7.2
2. Watson, Grindavik	6.8
3. Miller, Tindastoll	6.0
4. Hall, Snaefell	5.5
5. Govens, Thor Thorl	4.8
6. Fridriksson, Njard.	4.5
7. O''Neil, Fjolnir	4.5
8. Brown, KR	4.4
9. Parker, Keflavik	4.0
10. Arnarson, IR	3.8

Steals Per Game

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

1. Holmes, Njardvik	2.9
2. Allen, Tindastoll	2.8
3. Cothran, Stjarnan	2.6
4. Gunnarsson, Kefla.	2.3
5. Hall, Snaefell	2.2
6. Parker, Keflavik	2.2
7. Miller, Tindastoll	2.2
8. Shouse, Stjarnan	2.1
9. Govens, Thor Thorl	2.0
10. Watson, Grindavik	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Hairston, Thor T.	3.7
2. Smith, Haukar	3.6
3. Tratnik, Valur	2.2
4. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.3
5. Cole, Keflavik	1.0
6. Valdimarsson, Stja.	1.0
7. Ferguson, KR	1.0
8. Holmes, Njardvik	1.0
9. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.	1.0
10. Barja, Haukar	0.9

Stjarnan say not over yet - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

When most people thought the seria between Grindavik & Stjarnan where over since Grindavik leading 2-0 and next game at Grindavik.
But Stjarnan had not give up and came ready for this game from beginning playing aggressive defense and players where hot in shooting.
Grindavik 39% Stjarnan 52% from 2-pts.From 3-pt Grindavik 19% Stjarnan 50% This was the main reason for a big win for Stjarnan
Final score Grindavik 65 Stjarnan 82
Scorers for Grindavik Thorleifur Olafsson 16. J'Nathan Bullock 12. Giordan Watson 9. Omar Saevarsson 6. Ryan Pettinella 5. Pall Vilbergsson 5. Olafur Olafsson 5. Johann Olafsson 3. Sigurdur Thorsteinsson 2. Bjorn Brynjolfsson2
For Stjarnan. Jovan Zdravevski (197-F-80) 18. Justin Shouse 16. Renato Lindmets 14 Keith Cothran 14. Marvin Valdimarsson 12. Sigurjon Larusson 6. Gudjon Larusson 2

Thor close to the finals - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Again Thor did have an easy win against KR and that was at KR gym. Their strong defense and much better shooting was the key for the win Thor leads now the serie 2-1 and have home game next and win there will take them to to finals which would be first time that rookie team in the league does that
Final score KR 86. Thor 100.
Scorers for KR. Joshua Brown 34. Dejan Sencanski 13. Hreggvidur Magnusson 11. Finnur Magnusson 11. Jon Kristjansson 6. Martin Hermannson 5. Emil Johannsson 4. Robert Ferguson 2
Scorers for Thor. Darrin Govens 29. Blagoj Janev 18. Gudmundur Jonsson 16. Darri Hilmarsson 14. Joseph henley 12. Baldur Ragnarsson 6. Gretar Erlendsson 4. Thorsteinn Ragnarsson 1

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IRAN

The Quarterfinals resumed the League play-offs in Iran - by Eurobasket News

The Quarterfinals resumed the League play-offs in Iran. Azad Univ overcame Zob Ahan 73:49. Milan Vucicevic (208-F/C-85) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and SMITH Ander posted 17. AKBARI M.reza responded with 14 points in the losing effort, while Karam Ahmadian (197-F-77) had 8.
Mahram edged Gorgan 94:73. SEDDIGHI Amir poured in 21 points, while MASHAYEKHI Sajjad delivered 20. Erupted with 32 points and 12 rebounds in defeat.
Foolad Mahan beat Haffari at the 22 Bahman Arena Ahvaz 92:83. Javad Davari (185-G-83) stepped up with 24 points and HASANZADEH netted 13. Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: District of Col.) exploded with 37 points in the losing case and Adnan Doraghi added 23.
Petrochimi outscored Sanaya Petrochimi 62:58. Joseph Forte (193-G-81, college: N.Carolina) stepped up with 19 points and Mehrad Atashi (190-G-86) added 12. LETTSR Ontario replied with 20 points for the visiting side.
Game 2 of the best-of-three quarterfinals are scheduled for Tuesday.

WABA League: Mahram fire past Riyadi to earn the title - by Eurobasket News

Mahram - Riyadi 96:86

Mahram climbed back on top of WABA League summit. The Iranian powerhouse held off Riyadi in the decisive fifth game of the championship series to clinch the crown. Samad Nik Khakhbahrami stepped up with 28 points, 6 boards and 3 assists to lead the winners.
Mahram stormed into the game taking a 19:4 lead midway through the first term. The Iranian team stretched the margin to as many as 18 points at the first intermission 31:13. The Iranian team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 50:34 halftime advantage. Riyadi lagged behind in the third term. Mahram stayed dominant posting an 80:68 cushion with ten minutes remaining. The hosts did not slow down in the final stanza cruising to a well-deserved win at the end. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) nailed 20 points, while Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) accounted for 17 points in the winning effort. Jean Abdel Nour (198-F/G-83, agency: Pro Management Agency) and Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) finished with 24 points each for Riyadi.

Mahram: Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) 28, Hamed Afagh 20, Nikoloz Tskitishvili 17
Riyadi: Jean Abdel Nour 24, Dewarick Spencer 24

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

ISRAEL

Standings - BSL

Premier League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A		21-2
2. Galil Gilboa		16-8
3. Maccabi Rishon		14-10
4. Hapoel J-M		14-10
5. Hapoel Holon		13-11
6. Maccabi Ashdod		11-12
7. Ironi Ashkelon		10-13
8. B.C. Habikaa		9-14
9. Elitzur Netanya		9-14
10. Bnei Hasharon		7-16
11. Maccabi Haifa		5-19

Regular Season: Round 26

Apr. 15: B.C. Habikaa - Maccabi Ashdod 87-70
Apr. 16: Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi Haifa 82-83
Apr. 15: Maccabi T-A - Hapoel Holon 80-70
Apr. 15: Galil Gilboa - Maccabi Rishon 74-67
Apr. 16: Ironi Ashkelon - Hapoel J-M 63-83

Regular Season: Round 27

Apr. 22: Maccabi Ashdod - Bnei Hasharon
Apr. 19: Elitzur Netanya - B.C. Habikaa
Apr. 22: Maccabi Rishon - Ironi Ashkelon
Apr. 22: Hapoel Holon - Galil Gilboa
Apr. 22: Hapoel J-M - Maccabi T-A

Round 23

Apr. 19: Maccabi T-A - Ironi Ashkelon

Loto League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Adrian BANKS
  Elitzur .
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 21

1. Banks, Elitzur	21.0
2. Landesberg, Macca.	20.7
3. Carter, Bnei H.	20.5
4. Crawford, Maccab.	20.5
5. Lewis, Hapoel Holon	19.3
6. Travis, Galil Gilb.	18.0
7. Asbury, Elitzur	18.0
8. Dunn, Bnei Hashar.	17.9
9. Duncan, Maccabi	17.4
10. Delaney, B.C. H.	17.1

Rebounds Per Game

Bryant DUNSTON
  Hapoel H.
  (202-F/C-86)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Dunston, Hapoel H.	9.3
2. Rosefelt, Bnei H.	9.1
3. Duncan, Maccabi	8.4
4. Bowman, Maccabi	8.3
5. Tyus, Maccabi	8.1
6. Asbury, Elitzur	7.7
7. Killingswort., Iro.	7.3
8. Hendrix, Maccabi	7.2
9. Uter, Maccabi	7.2
10. Kitchen, Maccabi	7.1

Assists Per Game

Moran ROTH
  Hapoel Holon
  (183-PG-82)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Roth, Hapoel Holon	7.9
2. Tapiro, Maccabi	7.4
3. Carter, Bnei H.	6.9
4. Thomas, Galil Gilb.	5.1
5. Ohayon, Maccabi	4.8
6. Mitchell, Ironi A.	4.8
7. Lifshitz, Elitzu.	4.7
8. Delaney, B.C. H.	4.4
9. Limonad, Ironi A.	4.3
10. Naimy, Hapoel J-M	4.1

Steals Per Game

Raviv LIMONAD
  Ironi A.
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Limonad, Ironi A.	2.1
2. Campbell, Elitzu.	1.9
3. Kitchen, Maccabi	1.8
4. Ben-Chimol, Maccab.	1.8
5. Robinson, B.C. H.	1.8
6. Yavzuri, Galil Gil.	1.8
7. Delaney, B.C. H.	1.7
8. Mitchell, Ironi A.	1.7
9. Ohayon, Maccabi	1.7
10. Bowman, Maccabi	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Bryant DUNSTON
  Hapoel H.
  (202-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Dunston, Hapoel H.	1.8
2. James, Maccabi T-A	1.8
3. Uter, Maccabi	1.6
4. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.2
5. Randle, Hapoel J-M	1.2
6. Tyus, Maccabi	1.2
7. Sullivan, Hapoel H.	1.0
8. Rosefelt, Bnei H.	1.0
9. Campbell, Elitzu.	1.0
10. Bowman, Maccabi	0.9

Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game

Errick MCCOLLUM
  Hapoel K.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 24.4

1. McCollum, Hapoel K.	24.4
2. Miller, Macc.B.Y.	23.6
3. Sanders, Hapoel Y.	23.1
4. Clinch, Lev H.	22.7
5. Hall, Macc.B.Y.	22.3
6. Ginyard, Ironi N.	21.6
7. Daniel, Ironi K-A	21.5
8. Clemente, Kiryat T.	21.0
9. Moragne, Elitzur	20.6
10. Bet-Yosef, Macc..	20.4

Rebounds Per Game

Ramon CLEMENTE
  Kiryat T.
  (200-PF-85)
  Avg: 14.6

1. Clemente, Kiryat T.	14.6
2. Thondique, Hapoel	12.8
3. Turner, Hapoel Y/M	11.2
4. Moses, Hapoel K/S	10.7
5. Blair, Ironi N.	9.9
6. Webb, Ironi R.	9.5
7. Daniel, Ironi K-A	9.3
8. Traimel, Ironi N.	9.0
9. Bacon, Elitzur Ram.	8.8
10. Sanders, Hapoel Y.	8.6

Assists Per Game

Ilan NANIKASHVILI
  Ironi K.
  (187-G-79)
  Avg: 7.7

1. Nanikashvili, Iron.	7.7
2. Bannister, Ironi R.	6.8
3. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	6.8
4. Sukar, Hod Hashar.	6.6
5. Eliyahu, Ironi N.	6.6
6. Assaf, Ironi N.	5.4
7. Bet-Yosef, Macc.B.	5.3
8. Gonzalez, Hod H.	4.9
9. Rub, Lev Hasharon	4.7
10. Miller, Macc.B.Y.	3.9

Steals Per Game

Yoad BET-YOSEF
  Macc.B.
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Bet-Yosef, Macc.B.	3.0
2. Miller, Macc.B.Y.	2.9
3. Benn, Ironi N.	2.6
4. Hofman, Elitzur	2.6
5. Sanders, Hapoel Y.	2.4
6. Gonzalez, Hod H.	2.3
7. Eliyahu, Ironi N.	2.3
8. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	2.2
9. McCollum, Hapoel K.	2.2
10. Housman, Macc.B.Y.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Lenny DANIEL
  Ironi K-A
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Daniel, Ironi K-A	2.6
2. Kelly, Hapoel T-A	2.3
3. Johnson, Hod H.	2.0
4. Blair, Ironi N.	1.8
5. Webb, Ironi R.	1.5
6. Thondique, Hapoel	1.4
7. Clemente, Kiryat T.	1.4
8. Bacon, Elitzur Ram.	1.3
9. Naor, Hapoel T-A	1.1
10. Younger, Ironi K-A	0.9

Best players of Israeli Premier League round 26 - by Eurobasket News

American Brian Randle (203-F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Hapoel J-M and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 18 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team crushed Ironi Ashkelon (#7, 10-13) with 20-point margin 83-63. Hapoel J-M maintains the 4th position in Israeli Premier League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Hapoel J-M will need more victories to improve their 14-10 record. It's Randle's second year at Hapoel J-M and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Brian Randle averages this season 12.1ppg and 6.6rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American Isaac Rosefelt (205-C/F-85) of Bnei Hasharon. Rosefelt impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 15 points and 17 rebounds. Bad luck as Bnei Hasharon was edged by slightly lower-ranked Maccabi Haifa (#11, 5-19) 83-82. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Bnei Hasharon keeps 10th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-16 record. Rosefelt is a newcomer at Bnei Hasharon and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was American Sylven Landesberg (198-F/G-90) of Maccabi Haifa (#11). Landesberg scored 29 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Maccabi Haifa, leading his team to a 83-82 win against slightly higher-ranked Bnei Hasharon (#10, 7-16). Maccabi Haifa can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 5-19 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Landesberg he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Landesberg has individually a great season in Israel. After 23 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.7ppg (2nd best). Sylven Landesberg has also Israeli passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85) of Maccabi T-A - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Brandon Bowman (204-F-84) of Maccabi Rishon - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Josh Duncan (203-C/F-86) of Maccabi Ashdod - 20 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Troy Gillenwater (205-F-88) of B.C. Habikaa - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Tyler Wilkerson (202-F-88) of Maccabi Haifa - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Bryant Dunston (202-F/C-86) of Hapoel Holon - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. LaceDarius Dunn (193-G-87) of Bnei Hasharon - 29 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)

Premier League Round 26: Galil Gilboa beats Maccabi Rishon in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in Premier League.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Galil. Second ranked Galil Gilboa faced one of their biggest challengers Maccabi Rishon. Host Galil Gilboa (16-8) defeated guests from Rishon Le-Zion (14-10) 74-67. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Galil Gilboa outrebounded Maccabi Rishon 38-26 including a 24-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Courtney Fells (198-86, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Brandon Bowman (204-84, college: Georgetown) produced 20 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the guests. Galil Gilboa maintains second position with 16-8 record having four points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon at the other side keeps the third place with ten games lost. They share the position with Hapoel J-M. Galil Gilboa are looking forward to face Hapoel Holon (#5) on the road in the next round. Maccabi Rishon will play against Ironi Ashkelon and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Bottom-ranked Maccabi Haifa managed to get a fifth victory. This time they edged tenth-ranked Bnei Hasharon in Hod Hasharon 83-82. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Bnei Hasharon. Naturalized American swingman Sylven Landesberg (198-90, college: Virginia) saved the victory by scoring 29 points and 5 rebounds. Tyler Wilkerson contributed with 20 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American guard LaceDarius Dunn (193-87, college: Baylor, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) replied with 29 points and 5 rebounds for Bnei Hasharon. Maccabi Haifa maintains eleventh position with 5-19 record. Bnei Hasharon at the other side keeps the tenth place with 16 games lost. Maccabi Haifa will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Bnei Hasharon will play on the road against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Leader Maccabi T-A delivered the twentieth first victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Hapoel Holon (13-11) 80-70 in Tel-Aviv. Lior Eliyahu scored 19 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Bryant Dunston responded with 15 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Maccabi T-A (21-2) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Loser Hapoel Holon keeps the fifth place with 11 games lost. Maccabi T-A will meet at home Ironi Ashkelon (#7) in the next round where they are favorite. Hapoel Holon will play against the league's second-placed Galil Gilboa and hope to secure a win.
The game in Ashkelon supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Hapoel J-M (14-10) played at the court of 7th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (10-13). Hapoel J-M did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 83-63. Brian Randle notched a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the effort. Hapoel J-M's coach used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel J-M moved-up to third place, which they share with Maccabi Rishon. Ironi Ashkelon lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 13 games lost. Hapoel J-M's next round opponent will be league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ironi Ashkelon will play on the road against the league's leader Maccabi T-A (#1) in Tel-Aviv.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Habikaa, where 6th ranked Maccabi Ashdod (11-12) lost to ninth ranked B.C. Habikaa (9-14) in a road game 70-87 on Sunday. The best player for the winners was Frank Robinson who scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. B.C. Habikaa's coach Avi Ashkenazi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. B.C. Habikaa moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Elitzur Netanya. Loser Maccabi Ashdod keeps the sixth position with 12 games lost. B.C. Habikaa will face Elitzur Netanya (#9) on the road in the next round.

The best stats of 26th round was 15 points and 17 rebounds by Isaac Rosefelt of Bnei Hasharon.

Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi Haifa 82-83

Bottom-ranked Maccabi Haifa managed to get a fifth victory. This time they edged tenth-ranked Bnei Hasharon in Hod Hasharon 83-82. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Bnei Hasharon. Naturalized American swingman Sylven Landesberg (198-90, college: Virginia) saved the victory by scoring 29 points and 5 rebounds. American forward Tyler Wilkerson (202-88, college: Marshall) contributed with 20 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four Maccabi Haifa players scored in double figures. American guard LaceDarius Dunn (193-87, college: Baylor, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) replied with 29 points and 5 rebounds and naturalized American power forward Isaac Rosefelt (205-85, college: St.Thomas) added 15 points and 17 rebounds in the effort for Bnei Hasharon. Maccabi Haifa maintains eleventh position with 5-19 record. Bnei Hasharon at the other side keeps the tenth place with 16 games lost. Maccabi Haifa will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Bnei Hasharon will play on the road against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Haifa: S.Landesberg 29+5reb+3ast, T.Wilkerson 20+9reb+2ast, A.Ben-Chimol 11+1reb+2ast, J.Smith 10+5reb+3ast, C.Powell 4+5reb+1ast, D.Aidan 4+5reb
Bnei Hasharon: L.Dunn 29+5reb+1ast, I.Rosefelt 15+17reb+2ast, K.Lawson 12+4reb+1ast, J.Williams 8+3reb+6ast, R.Ayalon 7+2reb+1ast, G.Lavie 6+1reb+6ast

Galil Gilboa - Maccabi Rishon 74-67

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Galil. Second ranked Galil Gilboa faced one of their biggest challengers Maccabi Rishon. Host Galil Gilboa (16-8) defeated guests from Rishon Le-Zion (14-10) 74-67. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Galil Gilboa outrebounded Maccabi Rishon 38-26 including a 24-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Courtney Fells (198-86, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. Five Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. Forward Brandon Bowman (204-84, college: Georgetown) produced 20 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and swingman Joe Crawford (196-86, college: Kentucky, agency: Priority Sports) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Galil Gilboa maintains second position with 16-8 record having four points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon at the other side keeps the third place with ten games lost. They share the position with Hapoel J-M. Galil Gilboa are looking forward to face Hapoel Holon (#5) on the road in the next round. Maccabi Rishon will play against Ironi Ashkelon and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: R.Travis 18+7reb+2ast, W.Hatcher 14+2reb+5ast, J.Jones 14+8reb+1ast, C.Fells 14+11reb+2ast, D.Yavzuri 10+4reb+6ast, I.Kozikaro 4+4reb
Maccabi Rishon: B.Bowman 20+9reb+4ast, J.Crawford 20+3ast, D.Kitchen 15+4reb+1ast, A.Uter 5+9reb+2ast, N.Hanochi 5+2reb+3ast, O.Solomon 2+1reb

Maccabi T-A - Hapoel Holon 80-70

Leader Maccabi T-A delivered the twentieth first victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Hapoel Holon (13-11) 80-70 in Tel-Aviv. The game was mostly controlled by Maccabi T-A. Hapoel Holon managed to win second period 18-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Hapoel Holon to just 7 points in first quarter. Maccabi T-A looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. International power forward Lior Eliyahu (206-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) scored 19 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American swingman Keith Langford (193-83, college: Kansas) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. American power forward Bryant Dunston (202-86) responded with 15 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import forward Tasmin Mitchell (201-86, college: LSU) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Hapoel Holon players scored in double figures. Maccabi T-A (21-2) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Loser Hapoel Holon keeps the fifth place with 11 games lost. Maccabi T-A will meet at home Ironi Ashkelon (#7) in the next round where they are favorite. Hapoel Holon will play against the league's second-placed Galil Gilboa and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Maccabi T-A: L.Eliyahu 19+9reb+3ast, K.Langford 18+6reb+3ast, G.Pnini 15+2reb+5ast, D.Blu 9+3reb+1ast, S.James 8+7reb+1ast, S.Schortsanitis 5+3reb
Hapoel Holon: B.Dunston 15+7reb+2ast, T.Mitchell 13+6reb+1ast, S.Harush 12+3reb+4ast, R.Lewis 12+3reb+1ast, M.Roth 8+3reb+7ast, P.Sullivan 8+4reb

B.C. Habikaa - Maccabi Ashdod 87-70

We should mention about the upset which took place in Habikaa, where 6th ranked Maccabi Ashdod (11-12) lost to ninth ranked B.C. Habikaa (9-14) in a road game 70-87 on Sunday. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when B.C. Habikaa's pressure prevailed and they won that period 28-14 extending their advantage to 17 points. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Frank Robinson (193-84, college: CS Fullerton) who scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. The other American import forward Troy Gillenwater (205-88, college: N.Mexico St.) chipped in 18 points. B.C. Habikaa's coach Avi Ashkenazi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Josh Duncan (203-86) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds and the former international point guard Meir Tapiro (192-75) added 11 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. B.C. Habikaa moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Elitzur Netanya. Loser Maccabi Ashdod keeps the sixth position with 12 games lost. B.C. Habikaa will face Elitzur Netanya (#9) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
B.C. Habikaa: T.Gillenwater 18+4reb+2ast, F.Robinson 16+6reb+3ast, D.Dowell 13+4reb+3ast, I.Grinboim 13+1reb+2ast, N.Cohen 10+6reb, E.Skverer 8+3reb+6ast
Maccabi Ashdod: J.Duncan 20+15reb+3ast, J.Carter 15+2reb, M.Tapiro 11+8reb+9ast, A.Tyus 11+7reb, D.Hagag 7+1reb+2ast, I.Iram 4+1reb

Ironi Ashkelon - Hapoel J-M 63-83

The game in Ashkelon supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Hapoel J-M (14-10) played at the court of 7th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (10-13). Hapoel J-M did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 83-63. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel J-M. Ironi Ashkelon was better in second period 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel J-M dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Ironi Ashkelon's 32. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Ironi Ashkelon's players. American forward Brian Randle (203-85) notched a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the effort and the other American import guard D.J. Strawberry (196-85, college: Maryland) supported him with 15 points. Four Hapoel J-M players scored in double figures. Hapoel J-M's coach used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 9 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists by American swingman Dwayne Mitchell (196-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) did not help to save the game for Ironi Ashkelon. American-Nigerian guard Tony Skinn (185-83, college: George Mason) added 17 points for the hosts. Hapoel J-M moved-up to third place, which they share with Maccabi Rishon. Ironi Ashkelon lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 13 games lost. Hapoel J-M's next round opponent will be league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ironi Ashkelon will play on the road against the league's leader Maccabi T-A (#1) in Tel-Aviv.
Top scorers:
Hapoel J-M: B.Randle 18+13reb+5ast, D.Strawberry 15+4reb+3ast, R.Bradley 13+4reb+2ast, D.Grunfeld 13+1reb+1ast, E.Kadir 9+5reb+1ast, J.Thomas 7+5reb+2ast
Ironi Ashkelon: T.Skinn 17+4reb+3ast, M.Killingsworth 15+6reb, D.Mitchell 9+10reb+5ast, D.Shamriz 8+1ast, A.Simhon 7+4reb, J.Skeen 4+1reb

National League Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Elitzur Yavne - Kiryat Tivon 105-88

Elitzur Yavne surged ahead in the series versus Kiryat Tivon. The game was mostly controlled by Elitzur Yavne. Kiryat Tivon managed to win fourth quarter 35-27. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Elitzur Yavne looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Eyal Engel (190-85) who helped to win the game recording 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. American swingman Brian Laing (195-85, college: Seton Hall, agency: I.D.S. Law) contributed with 28 points for the winners. Four Elitzur Yavne players scored in double figures. Power forward Kobi Izik (204-83) answered with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and American-Puerto Rican Ramon Clemente (200-85, college: Wichita St.) added 19 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Kiryat Tivon. Kiryat Tivon's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Yavne: B.Laing 28+3reb+1ast, E.Engel 22+5reb+5ast, E.Hofman 16+7reb+6ast, N.Golan 14+1reb+6ast, Z.Volfer 8+7reb+8ast, Y.Levi 8+8reb
Kiryat Tivon: K.Izik 19+5reb+6ast, R.Clemente 19+7reb+2ast, J.Gomes 18+2reb+2ast, L.Ariely 10+1reb, O.Hover 9+5reb+3ast, B.Hagbi 5+4reb+3ast

Ironi Nes-Ziona - Hapoel Afula 74-70

Ironi Nes-Ziona overcame Hapoel Afula in the opener. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-17. But Hapoel Afula won second period 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 24 personal fouls committed by Hapoel Afula helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Welsh forward Tal Michael Dunne (197-87) who helped to win the game recording 23 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. American forward Gabe Blair (203-87, college: Wichita St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American forward Gregg Thondique (201-87, college: Virginia Union) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import swingman Roy Booker (191-84, college: SE Missouri St.) added 22 points and 4 assists in the effort for Hapoel Afula.
Top scorers:
Ironi Nes-Ziona: G.Blair 26+11reb, T.Michael Dunne 23+9reb+5ast, T.Karpeles 13+6reb+2ast, D.Assaf 5+1reb+4ast, B.Benn 5+10reb+3ast, D.Bank 2+1reb+2ast
Hapoel Afula: R.Booker 22+1reb+4ast, G.Thondique 20+12reb+2ast, H.Shifman 8+7reb+1ast, E.Eliyah 7+5reb+1ast, Y.Deri 4+4reb+2ast, E.Knafo 4+1reb

Hapoel T-A - Ironi Ramat Gan 85-60

Hapoel Tel-Aviv thrashed Ironi Ramat Gan in the opening game of the series. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Ironi Ramat Gan managed to win third quarter 22-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 25 personal fouls committed by Ironi Ramat Gan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American Curtis Kelly (205-88, college: Kansas St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds. Naturalized Swedish power forward Jonathan Skjoldebrand (204-83) contributed with 16 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American point guard T.J. Bannister (180-84, college: Liberty, agency: KMG Sports Management) answered with 15 points and 7 assists and the former international power forward Amit Tamir (208-79, college: California) added 12 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Ironi Ramat Gan. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Hapoel T-A: C.Kelly 20+12reb+1ast, M.Naor 17+4reb+1ast, J.Skjoldebrand 16+9reb+1ast, G.Eytan 10+3reb+4ast, D.Stitt 8+8reb, C.Carr 7+3reb+8ast
Ironi Ramat Gan: T.Bannister 15+3reb+7ast, A.Tamir 12+10reb+1ast, R.Pitshon 12+9reb+1ast, R.Webb 11+3reb, Y.Yatzkan 5+4reb, D.Davidi 3+8reb+3ast

Macc.B.Yaakov - Hod Hasharon 111-90

Maccabi Beer Yaakov shot down Hod Hasharon to take 1-0 lead. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 59-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Beer Yaakov shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 52.2 percentage. It was a very good performance for point guard Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-87) who helped to win the game recording 33 points (!!!), 6 assists and 4 steals. American guard Nate Miller (193-87, college: Bowling Green) contributed with 29 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Beer Yaakov's coach Idan Plada felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Anthony Johnson (203-88, college: Fairfield) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds and naturalized American guard Charles Dewhurst (195-87, college: Charlotte) added 24 points and 4 assists in the effort for Hod Hasharon. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Macc.B.Yaakov: Y.Bet-Yosef 33+2reb+6ast, N.Miller 29+5reb+5ast, C.Watson 21+6reb+1ast, I.Simin 12+6reb+2ast, T.Atlas 5+1reb, I.Buchman 4+3reb+3ast
Hod Hasharon: C.Dewhurst 24+4reb+4ast, H.Ratner 22+3reb+3ast, A.Johnson 18+15reb+1ast, G.Gandel 17+5reb+7ast, O.Winter 8+3reb+6ast, T.Lowenthal 1+1reb+1ast

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

ITALY

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings

1. Montepaschi		19-7
2. Bennet Cantu		18-10
3. Armani Mit		17-10
4. Scavolini PS		17-10
5. Banco di Sard.		17-10
6. Umana Venezia		16-11
7. CS Bologna		15-12
8. Cimberio VA		14-13
9. Sidigas AV		13-14
10. Acea Roma		13-15
11. Benetton TV		12-15
12. Fabi Shoes		11-16
13. Otto Caserta		11-16
14. Angelico BI		11-16
15. Vanoli CR		11-17
16. Banca Tercas		10-18
17. Novipiu CM		6-21

Regular Season: Round 29

Apr. 15: Vanoli CR - Umana Venezia 89-80
Apr. 16: Acea Roma - Banca Tercas 85-93
Apr. 15: Banco di Sard. - Fabi Shoes 79-77
Apr. 15: Novipiu CM - Montepaschi 76-82
Apr. 15: Otto Caserta - Sidigas AV 76-67
Apr. 15: Armani Mit - Bennet Cantu 72-64
Apr. 15: Cimberio VA - Scavolini PS 63-67
Apr. 15: Benetton TV - CS Bologna 63-59

Round 26

Apr. 12: Bennet Cantu - Montepaschi 95-94 OT

Regular Season: Round 30

Apr. 22: Sidigas AV - Armani Mit
Apr. 22: Montepaschi - Benetton TV
Apr. 22: Scavolini PS - Banco di Sard.
Apr. 22: Bennet Cantu - Cimberio VA
Apr. 22: Umana Venezia - Acea Roma
Apr. 22: CS Bologna - Otto Caserta
Apr. 22: Fabi Shoes - Vanoli CR
Apr. 22: Angelico BI - Novipiu CM

Round 27

Apr. 19: Montepaschi - Sidigas AV

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

Andre SMITH
  Otto C.
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Smith, Otto C.	18.5
2. Coleman, Angelico.	17.9
3. White, Scavolin.	16.5
4. Dean, Sidigas AV	16.3
5. Diener, Banco d.	16.2
6. Hickman, Scavolin.	15.9
7. Pullen, Angelico BI	15.8
8. Shakur, Novipiu CM	15.7
9. Andersen, Montepa.	15.5
10. Hosley, Banco d.	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.	10.6
2. Johnson, Sidigas	10.3
3. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	7.8
4. Smith, Otto C.	7.6
5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes	7.6
6. Jones, Scavolini PS	7.4
7. Chiotti, Novip.	7.1
8. Gigli, CS Bologna	6.8
9. Miralles, Angelico.	6.7
10. Bourousis, Armani	6.7

Assists Per Game

Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Green, Sidigas AV	6.3
2. Diener, Banco d.	5.3
3. Collins, Otto Case.	5.2
4. Cook, Armani Mit	4.9
5. Shakur, Novipiu CM	4.4
6. Poeta, CS Bologna	4.1
7. Stipcevic, Cimberi.	3.7
8. Mekel, Benetton TV	3.5
9. Pullen, Angelico BI	3.4
10. Brown, Banca T.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Coleman, Angelico.	3.3
2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes	2.6
3. Green, Sidigas AV	2.5
4. Hosley, Banco d.	2.3
5. Hackett, Scavolin.	2.3
6. Di Bella, Fabi S.	2.0
7. Dean, Sidigas AV	2.0
8. Pullen, Angelico BI	1.9
9. Poeta, CS Bologna	1.8
10. Johnson, Sidigas	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Marco CUSIN
  Scavolini PS
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Cusin, Scavolini PS	1.5
2. Easley, Banco d.	1.4
3. Johnson, Sidigas	1.1
4. Szewczyk, Umana V.	1.1
5. Brunner, Bennet C.	1.0
6. Shermadini, Bennet	1.0
7. Viggiano, Benetton.	0.9
8. Slokar, Acea Roma	0.9
9. Sanikidze, CS Bo.	0.8
10. Bourousis, Armani	0.8

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trieste		24-10
2. Trento		23-11
3. Perugia		17-17
4. Santarcangelo		13-21
5. Firenze		12-22
6. Comsum.it SI		12-22
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		30-4
2. Torino		21-13
3. Treviglio		20-14
4. Casalpusterlengo		19-15
5. Pavia		17-17
6. Castelletto		13-21
Div.South-East
1. Chieti		17-17
2. Recanati		17-17
3. Bari		15-19
4. San Severo		14-20
5. Fabriano		8-26
6. Ruvo		3-31
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		27-7
2. Ferentino		21-13
3. Orlandina		20-14
4. Latina Basket		16-18
5. Anagni		15-19
6. Matera		15-19

Regular Season: Round 34

Apr. 15: Casalpusterlengo - Chieti 90-76
Apr. 15: Perugia - Fabriano 87-52
Apr. 15: Firenze - Bari 86-69
Apr. 15: Comsum.it SI - Recanati 84-59
Apr. 15: Omegna - Orlandina 82-59
Apr. 15: Castelletto - Ruvo 81-59
Apr. 15: Trento - Napoli 79-81
Apr. 15: Torino - San Severo 75-71
Apr. 15: Trieste - Matera 73-62
Apr. 15: Treviglio - Latina Basket 71-67
Apr. 15: Pavia - Anagni 62-79
Apr. 15: Santarcangelo - Ferentino 56-68

stats leader

Points Per Game

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

1. Musso, Napoli	19.8
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	17.5
3. Portannese, Torino	16.4
4. Poltroneri, Perugia	16.2
5. Prandin, Casalp.	15.4
6. Ferrarese, Castell.	14.9
7. Rugolo, San Severo	14.8
8. Mei, Comsum.it SI	14.5
9. Tagliabue, Ruvo	14.4
10. Amici, Firenze	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Rossi, Chieti	12.7
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.9
3. Tagliabue, Ruvo	8.5
4. Borra, Treviglio	8.2
5. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.1
6. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.0
7. Gandini, Trieste	7.9
8. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	7.9
9. Tessitori, Comsum..	7.6
10. Iannuzzi, Ferenti.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 4.2

1. Musso, Napoli	4.2
2. Bertolazzi, Omegna	4.2
3. Stanic, Fabriano	3.6
4. Circosta, Anagni	3.5
5. Guarino, Ferentino	3.3
6. Santolamazza, Ana.	3.2
7. Traini, Recanati	3.2
8. Vico, Matera	3.1
9. Ferrarese, Castell.	3.1
10. Parente, Torino	2.8

Steals Per Game

Roberto MAGGIO
  Pavia
  (183-G-90)
  Avg: 3

1. Maggio, Pavia	3.0
2. Rivali, Santarcang.	2.9
3. Bertolazzi, Omegna	2.9
4. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
5. Rossi, Chieti	2.8
6. Iardella, Fabriano	2.8
7. Mei, Comsum.it SI	2.8
8. Musso, Napoli	2.7
9. Portannese, Torino	2.7
10. Maiocco, Pavia	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Capitanelli, Firen.	2.1
2. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.8
3. Borra, Treviglio	1.6
4. Cazzaniga, Pavia	1.1
5. Pascolo, Trento	1.1
6. Candido, San Seve.	1.0
7. Raminelli, Castell.	1.0
8. Cotani, Castelletto	1.0
9. Benevelli, Orlandi.	0.9
10. Rossi, Chieti	0.9

SerieA Round 29: #1 Montepaschi Siena is defeated by Bennet Cantu - by Eurobasket News

The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end of Regular Season. There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Montepaschi Siena (19-7) on the court of second ranked Bennet Cantu on Thursday night. Visitors were edged by Bennet Cantu in overtime 95-94. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Montepaschi Siena was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 20-17 charge of Bennet Cantu, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 14-13. Bennet Cantu outrebounded Montepaschi Siena 36-21 including 23 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by Montepaschi Siena helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 assists. Montepaschi Siena's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bennet Cantu have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 18-10 record behind leader Montepaschi. Defending champion Montepaschi Siena still keeps top position with seven games lost. Bennet Cantu are looking forward to face Cimberio Varese (#8) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Montepaschi Siena will play against Air Avellino (#9) and is hoping to win this game.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 29: Banca Tercas won against Acea Roma on the opponent's court 93-85. Vanoli CR managed to outperform Umana Venezia in a home game 89-80. CS Bologna recorded a loss to Benetton TV on the road 63-59. Cimberio VA was defeated by Scavolini PS on its own court 63-67. Fabi Shoes was beaten by Banco di Sard. in Sassari 79-77. Bottom-ranked Novipiu CM lost to defending champion Montepaschi at home 76-82. Bennet Cantu unfortunately lost to Armani Mit on the opponent's court 64-72. Otto Caserta managed to beat Sidigas AV in a home game 76-67.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 16 points, 22 rebounds and 5 blocks by Linton Johnson of Sidigas AV.

Acea Roma - Banca Tercas 85-93

There was an upset when higher ranked Lottomatica Roma (13-15) was defeated at home by sixteenth ranked Banca Tercas (10-18) 93-85 on Monday. Lottomatica Roma was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Banca Tercas shot the lights out from three sinking 15 long-distance shots on high 51.7 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American point guard Dee Brown (185-84, college: Illinois) stepped up and scored 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and forward Achille Polonara (203-91) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American guard Clay Tucker (196-80, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: Pro One Sports) responded with 30 points and Bosnian guard Nemanja Gordic (193-88) scored 16 points. Five Banca Tercas and four Lottomatica Roma players scored in double figures. Banca Tercas maintains sixteenth place with 10-18 record. Lottomatica Roma at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 15 games lost. Banca Tercas will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Banca Tercas: A.Polonara 20+6reb, D.Brown 20+6reb+4ast, V.Amoroso 15+4reb+4ast, R.Fultz 12+4reb+9ast, B.Brown 10+4reb+3ast, M.Borisov 9+7reb
Acea Roma: C.Tucker 30+2reb+1ast, N.Gordic 16+4reb+3ast, L.Datome 13+5reb, J.Varnado 11+10reb+1ast, U.Slokar 7+7reb, M.Kakiouzis 5+6reb+2ast

Vanoli CR - Umana Venezia 89-80

There was a surprise result in Cremona where fifteenth ranked Vanoli-Braga (11-17) defeated 3rd placed Umana Venezia (16-11) 89-80 on Sunday. The game without a history. Vanoli-Braga led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. American guard Jason Rich (191-86) stepped up and scored 24 points for the winners and Slovenian forward Marko Milic (201-77) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. Four Vanoli-Braga players scored in double figures. Polish center Szymon Szewczyk (209-82) responded with 27 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) and American forward Tamar Slay (204-80, college: Marshall) scored 25 points. Umana Venezia's coach Andrea Mazzon tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Vanoli-Braga maintains fifteenth place with 11-17 record. Umana Venezia at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 11 games lost. Vanoli-Braga will face higher ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#12) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Vanoli CR: J.Rich 24+4reb+2ast, M.Milic 17+4reb+4ast, B.Tabu-Eboma 16+5reb+1ast, D.Lighty 14+5reb+1ast, D.Cinciarini 7+1reb, L.D'Ercole 6+3reb
Umana Venezia: S.Szewczyk 27+7reb, T.Slay 25+3reb, T.Bowers 10+6reb, G.Meini 5+1reb+4ast, T.Fantoni 5+1reb+1ast, A.Young 4+2reb+2ast

Benetton TV - CS Bologna 63-59

There was an upset when higher ranked CS Bologna (15-12) was defeated on the road by twelfth ranked Benetton Treviso (12-15) 63-59 on Sunday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 20-12. But CS Bologna won second period 11-8. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Naturalized American forward Jeffrey Viggiano (197-84, college: Massachusetts) stepped up and scored 13 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and Israeli-Polish point guard Gal Mekel (192-88, college: Wichita St.) chipped in 12 points. Benetton Treviso's coach Alexander Djordjevic used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Georgian forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-86, agency: World Sport Agency) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds and Finnish guard Petteri Koponen (194-88) scored 12 points. Benetton Treviso moved-up to eleventh place. CS Bologna at the other side keeps the seventh position with 12 games lost. Benetton Treviso will face league's leader Montepaschi Siena on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Benetton TV: J.Viggiano 13+5reb+3ast, G.Mekel 12+4reb+2ast, B.Ortner 11+5reb, M.Goree 8+5reb+1ast, J.Thomas 7+3reb+1ast, G.Cuccarolo 5+4reb
CS Bologna: P.Koponen 12+4reb+2ast, L.Vitali 11+1reb+1ast, V.Sanikidze 10+10reb, G.Poeta 9+1reb+3ast, D.Gailius 7+2reb, A.Gigli 6+9reb

Cimberio VA - Scavolini PS 63-67

Everything went according to plan when sixth ranked Scavolini Pesaro (17-10) beat on the road 8th ranked Cimberio Varese (14-13) 67-63 on Sunday. Cimberio Varese was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 16-11 charge of Scavolini Pesaro, which allowed them to win the game. American point guard Ricky Hickman (189-85, college: NC-Greensboro) stepped up and scored 16 points and 6 assists for the winners and his fellow American import forward Jumaine Jones (203-79, college: Georgia) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. American guard Phil Goss (186-83, college: Drexel) responded with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and French forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds. Cimberio Varese's coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Scavolini Pesaro moved-up to third place, which they share with Armani Mit and Banco di Sard. Cimberio Varese at the other side keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. Scavolini Pesaro will face Banco di Sard. (#5) in Sassari in the next round. Cimberio Varese will play on the road against the league's second-placed Bennet Cantu.
Top scorers:
Scavolini PS: R.Hickman 16+4reb+6ast, J.White 15+2reb+3ast, J.Jones 13+7reb+1ast, D.Hackett 7+7reb+4ast, S.Flamini 6+5reb, A.Urbutis 5+3reb
Cimberio VA: P.Goss 17+5reb+4ast, R.Stipcevic 13+2reb, Y.Diawara 12+5reb+1ast, T.Rannikko 6+2reb+1ast, G.Ganeto 6+5reb, K.Kangur 4+3reb+1ast

Banco di Sard. - Fabi Shoes 79-77

There was no surprise in Sassari where 11th ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (11-16) was edged by fifth ranked Banco di Sard. (17-10) 79-77 on Sunday. However just two-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-77. American-Georgian swingman Quinton Hosley (201-84, college: Fresno St.) stepped up and scored 17 points for the winners and American guard Drake Diener (196-81, college: De Paul, agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 11 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Banco di Sard.'s coach Romeo Sacchetti used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American forward Sean May (206-84, college: N.Carolina) responded with 18 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import guard Coby Karl (196-83, college: Boise St., agency: Priority Sports) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Banco di Sard. moved-up to third place, which they share with Armani Mit and Scavolini PS. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with 16 games lost. Banco di Sard. will face Scavolini Pesaro (#4) on the road in the next round. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will play against Vanoli-Braga (#15) in Cremona.
Top scorers:
Banco di Sard.: Q.Hosley 17+4reb+2ast, T.Diener 16+1reb+5ast, V.Plisnic 14+6reb+1ast, T.Easley 12+7reb, D.Diener 11+6reb+6ast, M.Vanuzzo 5+2reb
Fabi Shoes: S.May 18+7reb+1ast, C.Karl 15+6reb+2ast, J.McNeal 13+6reb+4ast, I.Zoroski 12+4reb+1ast, D.Ivanov 11+4reb+1ast, F.Di Bella 4+1reb+4ast

Novipiu CM - Montepaschi 76-82

No shocking result in a game in Casale where first ranked Montepaschi Siena (19-7) won against bottom-ranked Novipiu CM (6-21) 82-76 on Sunday. Novipiu CM trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 22-17 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 76-82 at the end of the game. Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) stepped up and scored 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and the former international Pietro Aradori (194-88) chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds. Five Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international forward Simone Pierich (198-81) responded with 17 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and American guard Matt Janning (193-88, college: Northeastern, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) scored 13 points. Defending champion maintains first place with 19-7 record. Novipiu CM lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. Montepaschi Siena will face Air Avellino (#9) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Novipiu CM will play against Angelico Biella (#14).
Top scorers:
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 16+6reb+1ast, M.Carraretto 14+1reb+1ast, P.Aradori 14+6reb+1ast, D.Andersen 11+8reb+1ast, B.McCalebb 11+2reb+4ast, S.Stonerook 7+6reb+3ast
Novipiu CM: S.Pierich 17+3reb+2ast, M.Janning 13+2reb+2ast, M.Malaventura 12+1reb+1ast, O.Stevic 9+3reb, M.Shakur 8+1reb+4ast, S.Gentile 5+1ast

Armani Mit - Bennet Cantu 72-64

There was a minor upset when second-ranked Bennet Cantu (18-10) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Armani Milano (17-10) 72-64 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-64. Greek center Ioannis Bourousis (212-83, agency: FCM) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and swingman Alessandro Gentile (197-92) chipped in 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American-Swiss power forward Greg Brunner (201-83, college: Iowa) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. Armani Milano have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Scavolini PS and Banco di Sard. Bennet Cantu at the other side keeps the second position with ten games lost. Armani Milano will face Air Avellino (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Bennet Cantu will play against Cimberio Varese (#8).
Top scorers:
Armani Mit: A.Gentile 18+4reb+2ast, I.Bourousis 17+11reb+2ast, J.Giachetti 14+1reb+1ast, M.Hairston 6+5reb, L.Radosevic 5+3reb, O.Cook 5+1reb+3ast
Bennet Cantu: M.Markoishvili 20+5reb, N.Mazzarino 11+1reb+1ast, G.Brunner 8+8reb, A.Cinciarini 7, D.Marconato 6+4reb+1ast, G.Basile 6+1ast

Otto Caserta - Sidigas AV 76-67

There was a surprise result when fourteenth ranked Otto Caserta (11-16) defeated at home higher ranked Air Avellino (13-14) 76-67 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 76-67. Otto Caserta made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. American forward Andre Smith (203-85, college: N.Dakota St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds for the winners and the former international swingman Alex Righetti (198-77, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Linton Johnson (203-80, college: Tulane, agency: Priority Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 22 rebounds and 5 blocks and Slovenian-Croatian forward Jurica Golemac (209-77, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Otto Caserta moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Angelico BI and Fabi Shoes. Air Avellino at the other side keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. Otto Caserta will face higher ranked CS Bologna (#7) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Otto Caserta: A.Smith 24+12reb+2ast, A.Righetti 13+7reb+1ast, A.Doornekamp 11+5reb+2ast, A.Collins 8+3reb, G.Maresca 7+3reb+1ast, J.Kudlacek 6+2reb+1ast
Sidigas AV: L.Johnson 16+22reb+1ast, J.Golemac 16+8reb+3ast, M.Green 15+4reb+4ast, A.Infanti 8+1reb+3ast, V.Gaddefors 6+3reb, R.Slay 4+4reb

Round 26

Bennet Cantu - Montepaschi 95-94 OT

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Montepaschi Siena (19-7) on the court of second ranked Bennet Cantu on Thursday night. Visitors were edged by Bennet Cantu in overtime 95-94. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Montepaschi Siena was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 20-17 charge of Bennet Cantu, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 14-13. Bennet Cantu outrebounded Montepaschi Siena 36-21 including 23 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. 28 personal fouls committed by Montepaschi Siena helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import forward Maarten Leunen (206-85, college: Oregon) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 assists and Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) scored 21 points and 5 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bennet Cantu have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 18-10 record behind leader Montepaschi. Defending champion Montepaschi Siena still keeps top position with seven games lost. Bennet Cantu are looking forward to face Cimberio Varese (#8) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Montepaschi Siena will play against Air Avellino (#9) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Bennet Cantu: G.Basile 20+1reb+4ast, M.Leunen 18+6reb+3ast, G.Brunner 15+7reb+3ast, D.Perkins 15+11reb+3ast, N.Mazzarino 11+2reb+3ast, M.Markoishvili 10+4reb+2ast
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 21+5reb+1ast, B.McCalebb 19+4reb+11ast, I.Rakocevic 15+3reb+2ast, D.Andersen 15+2reb+1ast, M.Carraretto 12+3reb, S.Stonerook 3+2reb+3ast

Nazionale A Round 34: The End of the Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in Nazionale A just ended. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of top-ranked Chieti (17-17) on the court of fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by Casalpusterlengo 90-76. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Guard Roberto Prandin (188-86, agency: Two Points) scored 27 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Federico Loschi (195-90) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Casalpusterlengo's coach Simone Lottici used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds. Casalpusterlengo maintains fourth position with 19-15 record. Chieti lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team still keeps top place with 17 games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams.
Important game to mention about took place in Trento. First ranked Napoli (27-7) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging their biggest opponent Trento (23-11) 81-79 in the game for the first place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Trento. Center Andrea Iannilli (207-84) notched a double-double by scoring 22 points and 16 rebounds to lead the effort and Bernardo Musso supported him with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Even a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds by center Marco Pazzi (203-79) did not help to save the game for Trento. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first position with 27-7 record. Trento at the other side keeps the second place with 11 games lost.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Recanati (17-17) against sixth ranked Comsum.it SI (12-22) on Sunday night. Visiting Recanati was crushed by Comsum.it SI in Siena 84-59. Gabriele Spizzichini fired 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. Attilio Pierini produced 16 points and 6 rebounds for lost side. Recanati's coach Piero Coen gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Comsum.it SI have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Firenze. Loser Recanati still keeps top position with 17 games lost. They share it with 3 other teams.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Bari (15-19) against fifth ranked Firenze (12-22) on Sunday night. Visiting Bari was defeated by Firenze in Firenze 86-69. Worth to mention a great performance of Alessandro Amici who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Bari's coach Giovanni Putignano rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Firenze have a solid four-game winning streak. Newly promoted Firenze maintains fifth position with 12-22 record, which they share with Comsum.it SI. Bari lost sixth consecutive game. Bari at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the third place with 19 games lost.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Torino. Second ranked host Torino (21-13) defeated 4th ranked Mazzeo San Severo (14-20) 75-71. Marco Portannese had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Torino maintains second position with 21-13 record having just three points less than leader Omegna, which they share with Ferentino. Mazzeo San Severo lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 20 games lost.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 34: Ruvo was destroyed by Castelletto on the opponent's court 81-59. Perugia outscored Fabriano in a home game 87-52. Ferentino managed to beat Santarcangelo on the road 68-56. Treviglio defeated Latina Basket on its own court 71-67. Anagni beat Pavia in a road game 79-62. Omegna destroyed Orlandina at home 82-59. Matera unfortunately lost to Trieste on the opponent's court 62-73.

Castelletto - Ruvo 81-59

There was a minor upset when 6th ranked Ruvo (3-31) was crushed on the road by sixth ranked Castelletto (13-21) 81-59 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Castelletto. Ruvo was better in second period 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Castelletto forced 20 Ruvo turnovers. Swingman Christian Villani (200-82) scored 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Simone Ferrarese (182-87) chipped in 15 points during the contest. Castelletto's coach Alessandro De Pol felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side Marco Tagliabue (206-86) responded with 15 points and 9 rebounds and Simone Zanotti (206-92) scored 11 points and 8 rebounds. Castelletto moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Santarcangelo. Ruvo lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 31 games lost.
Top scorers:
Castelletto: S.Ferrarese 15+3reb+3ast, F.Dri 14+2ast, C.Villani 14+9reb+4ast, S.Cotani 9+5reb+3ast, A.Piazza 9+1reb+1ast, S.Appendini 7+1reb+2ast
Ruvo: M.Tagliabue 15+9reb, S.Zanotti 11+8reb, T.Laquintana 8+3reb+1ast, P.de Martino 8+1reb, G.Valesin 6+1reb+3ast, D.Merletto 5+3reb+1ast

Torino - San Severo 75-71

The game between Top Four teams took place in Torino. Second ranked host Torino (21-13) defeated 4th ranked Mazzeo San Severo (14-20) 75-71. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 20-14. But Mazzeo San Severo won second period 17-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torino forced 19 Mazzeo San Severo turnovers. Guard Marco Portannese (192-89, agency: Players Group) had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized San Marino Federico Tassinari (195-77, agency: Players Group) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side swingman Ivan Scarponi (196-86) responded with 26 points and swingman Giovanni Rugolo (196-81) scored 21 points and 6 rebounds. Torino maintains second position with 21-13 record having just three points less than leader Omegna, which they share with Ferentino. Mazzeo San Severo lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 20 games lost.
Top scorers:
Torino: M.Portannese 22+14reb+1ast, F.Tassinari 18+5reb+1ast, M.DeFant 16+2reb+1ast, F.Conti 8+4reb+1ast, L.Fontecchio 5+3reb, D.Parente 3+2reb+2ast
San Severo: I.Scarponi 26+3reb, G.Rugolo 21+6reb, F.Candido 10+3reb+1ast, F.Amoroso 5+6reb+2ast, F.Lovatti 4+5reb+1ast, M.Poluzzi 3+1reb

Comsum.it SI - Recanati 84-59

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Recanati (17-17) against sixth ranked Comsum.it SI (12-22) on Sunday night. Visiting Recanati was crushed by Comsum.it SI in Siena 84-59. The game was mostly controlled by Comsum.it SI. Recanati managed to win second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Recanati 44-20 including a 17-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Guard Gabriele Spizzichini (195-92) fired 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. Forward Andrea Colli (203-88, agency: Players Group) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. Five Comsum.it SI players scored in double figures. Forward Attilio Pierini (201-81) produced 16 points and 6 rebounds and guard Marco Ceron (195-92) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Recanati's coach Piero Coen gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Comsum.it SI have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Firenze. Loser Recanati still keeps top position with 17 games lost. They share it with 3 other teams.
Top scorers:
Comsum.it SI: G.Spizzichini 20+6reb+2ast, N.Mei 16+5reb+1ast, A.Colli 15+9reb+2ast, A.Tessitori 12+11reb+2ast, S.Bonfiglio 10+4reb+4ast, S.Simeoli 5+7reb
Recanati: A.Pierini 16+6reb+1ast, M.Ceron 15+5reb, M.Evangelisti 12, A.Cecchetti 7+3reb, S.Centanni 6+1reb, P.Chiarello 3+2reb

Perugia - Fabriano 87-52

Rather predictable result when third ranked Perugia (17-17) smashed at home 5th ranked Fabriano (8-26) 87-52 on Sunday. The game without a history. Perugia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Fabriano to just 6 points in third quarter. Perugia dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Fabriano's 30. They outrebounded Fabriano 37-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. Davide Poltroneri (195-85) scored 28 points to lead the charge for the winners and power forward Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-91) chipped in 13 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Perugia's coach Andrea Fabrizi felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side power forward Luca Usberti (201-73) responded with 18 points and 5 rebounds and forward Giulio Castelletta (206-92) scored 13 points. Perugia keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 3 other teams. Fabriano lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth place with 26 games lost.
Top scorers:
Perugia: D.Poltroneri 28+1reb+2ast, F.Baldi Rossi 13+13reb+1ast, T.De Min 11+3reb, S.Bonamente 9+9reb, M.Caroldi 8+4reb, G.Chiatti 7+2reb+3ast
Fabriano: L.Usberti 18+5reb+1ast, G.Castelletta 13+3reb, A.Iardella 6+3reb+1ast, C.Fontani 6+2reb, D.Liberati 5+3reb+3ast, N.D'Arrigo 2+2reb

Santarcangelo - Ferentino 56-68

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 4th ranked Santarcangelo's (13-21) home loss to third ranked Ferentino (21-13) 56-68 on Sunday. Ferentino moved-up to second place, which they share with Torino. Newly promoted Santarcangelo keeps the fourth position with 21 games lost.

Casalpusterlengo - Chieti 90-76

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of top-ranked Chieti (17-17) on the court of fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by Casalpusterlengo 90-76. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Guard Roberto Prandin (188-86, agency: Two Points) scored 27 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Federico Loschi (195-90) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Casalpusterlengo's coach Simone Lottici used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international center Emanuele Rossi (208-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds and guard Stefano Rajola (187-72) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds. Four Casalpusterlengo and five Chieti players scored in double figures. Casalpusterlengo maintains fourth position with 19-15 record. Chieti lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team still keeps top place with 17 games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams.
Top scorers:
Casalpusterlengo: R.Prandin 27+5reb+1ast, F.Loschi 16+5reb+2ast, R.Castelli 12+5reb+1ast, A.Chiumenti 10+3reb, P.Biligha 7+2reb, G.Ricci 7+9reb
Chieti: M.Diomede 19+3reb, E.Rossi 19+12reb+2ast, S.Rajola 15+7reb, F.Gialloreto 11+4reb+1ast, A.Raschi 10+4reb, A.Porfido 2

Treviglio - Latina Basket 71-67

The game between closely ranked teams ended with third ranked Treviglio's (20-14) home victory over one of their biggest challengers Latina Basket (16-18) 71-67 on Sunday. Latina Basket was trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 22-15 charge of Treviglio, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Treviglio forced 19 Latina Basket turnovers. Center Jacopo Borra (212-90) scored 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized Argentinian swingman Augustin Fabi (199-91) chipped in 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Treviglio's coach Adriano Vertemati allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the losing side naturalized Serbian forward Marko Micevic (198-89) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds and Riccardo Romano (191-84) scored 16 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). Treviglio maintains third position with 20-14 record having four points less than leader Omegna, which they share with Orlandina. Loser Latina Basket keeps the fourth place with 18 games lost.
Top scorers:
Treviglio: J.Borra 17+6reb+3ast, G.Zanella 14+7reb+1ast, A.Fabi 13+7reb+4ast, N.Cazzolato 9+5reb+1ast, T.Carnovali 8, S.Tomasini 4+1ast
Latina Basket: R.Romano 16+6reb+1ast, M.Micevic 15+10reb, R.Serena 9+4reb+1ast, S.Orlando 9+4reb, R.Tavernelli 6+2reb+2ast, T.Plateo 5

Pavia - Anagni 62-79

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 5th ranked Pavia (17-17) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Anagni (15-19) 79-62 on Sunday. The game without a history. Anagni led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 22 Pavia turnovers. Guard Valerio Circosta (188-87, agency: Two Points) scored 30 points and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 10 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. Four Anagni players scored in double figures. Anagni's coach Luciano Nunzi allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side center Davide Bozzetto (207-89, agency: Two Points) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds and power forward Roberto Cazzaniga (205-78) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Anagni moved-up to third place, which they share with Matera and Bari. Loser Pavia still keeps top position with 17 games lost.
Top scorers:
Anagni: V.Circosta 30+1reb+3ast, M.Baroncelli 14+7reb+2ast, N.Benedusi 12+6reb+3ast, D.Corral 10+14reb+1ast, R.Santolamazza 7+4reb+4ast, J.Pozzi 4+3reb
Pavia: S.Borgna 16+1reb+1ast, D.Bozzetto 14+12reb, R.Cazzaniga 13+8reb+3ast, I.Cisse 8+7reb+1ast, L.Furlanetto 7+2reb+1ast, A.Sean Mink 2+5reb

Trento - Napoli 79-81

Important game to mention about took place in Trento. First ranked Napoli (27-7) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging their biggest opponent Trento (23-11) 81-79 in the game for the first place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Trento. Trento was ahead by 4 points after three quarters before a 24-18 charge of Napoli, which allowed them to win the game. Center Andrea Iannilli (207-84) notched a double-double by scoring 22 points and 16 rebounds to lead the effort and naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) supported him with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Even a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds by center Marco Pazzi (203-79) did not help to save the game for Trento. Guard Matteo Negri (194-91) added 17 points and 4 steals (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for lost side. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first position with 27-7 record. Trento at the other side keeps the second place with 11 games lost.
Top scorers:
Napoli: B.Musso 22+7reb+7ast, A.Iannilli 22+16reb+3ast, S.Gatti 17+6reb+2ast, S.Lenardon 7+2reb+1ast, N.Rizzitiello 5+2reb+2ast, N.Bastone 4
Trento: M.Negri 17+3reb+1ast, M.Pazzi 12+10reb+1ast, S.Fiorito 12+1reb+1ast, M.Spanghero 8+2reb+2ast, L.Conte 8+1reb, A.Forray 8+6reb+4ast

Omegna - Orlandina 82-59

The game between closely ranked teams ended with first ranked Omegna's (30-4) home victory over their biggest opponent Orlandina (20-14) 82-59 on Sunday. The game without a history. Omegna led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Orlandina to just 7 points in first quarter. Omegna forced 21 Orlandina turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 3 passes made by Orlandina's players. Naturalized Argentinian power forward Franco Prelazzi (205-79) scored 15 points to lead the charge for the winners and guard Andrea Saccaggi (192-89, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 14 points during the contest. Four Omegna players scored in double figures. Omegna's coach Giampaolo Di Lorenzo felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side forward Nicholas Crow (199-89) responded with 17 points and 7 rebounds and center Niccolo Damiani (204-90, agency: Interperformances) scored 8 points and 5 rebounds. Omegna have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 30-4 record. Newly promoted Orlandina dropped to the third place with 14 games lost.
Top scorers:
Omegna: F.Prelazzi 15+4reb+2ast, A.Saccaggi 14+3ast, M.Bertolazzi 12+1reb+3ast, S.Masciadri 12+1reb+1ast, T.Raspino 9+3reb+1ast, R.Scomparin 6+2ast
Orlandina: N.Crow 17+7reb, N.Damiani 8+5reb, T.De Min 8+4reb, F.Zanelli 8+2reb+1ast, F.Pellegrino 7+5reb, M.Cardinali 7

Trieste - Matera 73-62

Very expected game when 5th ranked Matera (15-19) was defeated on the road by first ranked Trieste (24-10) 73-62 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Trieste. Matera was better in third quarter 21-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Trieste forced 20 Matera turnovers. Alfredo Moruzzi (193-80) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international point guard Marco Carra (185-80) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Trieste's coach Eugenio Dalmasson allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side guard Gianni Cantagalli (196-88, agency: Players Group) responded with 16 points and naturalized Argentinian guard Sebastian Vico (190-86, agency: Players Group) scored 8 points and 5 assists. Trieste have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 24-10 record. Loser Matera dropped to the third place with 19 games lost.
Top scorers:
Trieste: M.Carra 13+5reb, A.Moruzzi 12+5reb+1ast, L.Gandini 11+4reb+1ast, I.Ferraro 9+3reb, D.Mastrangelo 9+4reb+3ast, M.Ruzzier 6+2reb+2ast
Matera: G.Cantagalli 16+2reb, C.Grappasonni 13+4reb, A.LaGioia 12+2reb, S.Vico 8+4reb+5ast, A.Pilotti 4+9reb, L.Tardito 4+2reb

Firenze - Bari 86-69

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Bari (15-19) against fifth ranked Firenze (12-22) on Sunday night. Visiting Bari was defeated by Firenze in Firenze 86-69. The game without a history. Firenze led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Firenze forced 19 Bari turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Bari helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Alessandro Amici (200-91) who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Federico Bellina (205-79, agency: Players Group) contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-81) replied with 23 points and 6 assists and naturalized Argentinian forward Silvio Gigena (200-75) added 11 points in the effort for Bari. Bari's coach Giovanni Putignano rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Firenze have a solid four-game winning streak. Newly promoted Firenze maintains fifth position with 12-22 record, which they share with Comsum.it SI. Bari lost sixth consecutive game. Bari at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the third place with 19 games lost.
Top scorers:
Firenze: A.Amici 26+6reb+5ast, F.Bellina 16+6reb+1ast, S.Spizzichini 14, D.Lamma 9+4reb+4ast, A.Giampaoli 9+1reb+1ast, A.Capitanelli 5+5reb+1ast
Bari: A.Ruggiero 23+1reb+6ast, S.Gigena 11+3reb+1ast, L.De Bellis 10+3reb+1ast, M.Cardillo 6+4reb+1ast, D.Morena 6+5reb, D.Barozzi 4+2reb

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IVORY COAST

Adjoumani Rodrigue leads Generation to the 4th position - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season continues in Ivory Coast. Four more games were played in Round 11 to bring some changes at the standings.
Generation overcame Sewe 80:42 to take the 4th position at the standings. Rodrigue Adjoumani (182-G-84) stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Si Koffi Marc nailed 18. SOA outscored IVESTP 47:33. JCA beat ASSAOUFOUE 100:37. Daouda Camara poured in 25 points and Eloi Ngardinga notched 19. Ismael Diabagate followed them with 14 points. TBC ERMESS rolled over EBY 83:52. Pohoulou Serge top-scored for the winners with 24 points.

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JAPAN

Standings - BJ League

BJ League Standings

Eastern
1. Hamamatsu P.		33-15
2. Akita NH		28-22
3. Yokohama BC		27-21
4. Niigata Albirex		26-22
5. Sendai 89ers		25-23
6. Toyama Grouses		24-24
7. Shinshu BW		18-30
8. Chiba Jets		18-30
9. Iwate Big Bulls		15-33
10. Saitama Bron.		14-34
Western
1. Okinawa GK		35-13
2. Osaka Evessa		33-15
3. Shiga L-Stars		32-16
4. Kyoto Hannar.		31-17
5. Fukuoka Rizing		30-18
6. Shimane SM		26-24
7. Miyazaki SS		21-27
8. Oita H.Devils		20-28
9. Takamatsu FA		2-46

Regular Season: Round 54

Apr. 15: Shimane SM - Akita NH 85-79
Apr. 15: Sendai 89ers - Iwate Big Bulls 83-51
Apr. 15: Niigata Albirex - Kyoto Hannar. 82-90
Apr. 15: Shiga L-Stars - Shinshu BW 82-68
Apr. 15: Toyama Grouses - Osaka Evessa 78-81
Apr. 15: Chiba Jets - Miyazaki SS 76-78
Apr. 15: Saitama Bron. - Fukuoka Rizing 69-75
Apr. 15: Oita H.Devils - Hamamatsu P. 105-93

Regular Season: Round 55

Apr. 20: Yokohama BC - Sendai 89ers
Apr. 21: Iwate Big Bulls - Akita NH
Apr. 21: Niigata Albirex - Shiga L-Stars
Apr. 21: Toyama Grouses - Miyazaki SS
Apr. 21: Shinshu BW - Fukuoka Rizing
Apr. 21: Yokohama BC - Sendai 89ers
Apr. 21: Hamamatsu P. - Takamatsu FA
Apr. 21: Osaka Evessa - Kyoto Hannar.
Apr. 21: Oita H.Devils - Saitama Bron.
Apr. 21: Okinawa GK - Chiba Jets

BJ League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael PARKER
  Shimane SM
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 23.1

1. Parker, Shimane SM	23.1
2. Hargrow, Chiba J.	21.8
3. Palmer, Fukuoka	21.5
4. Staten, Chiba Jets	20.9
5. Cummings, Oita H.	20.6
6. Flowers, Saitama	20.0
7. Woods, Akita NH	19.8
8. Fitzgerald, Sendai	19.0
9. Burrell, Yokohama.	18.7
10. Raivio, Shinshu BW	18.7

Rebounds Per Game

Chris HOLM
  Niigata Albirex
  (212-C/F-84)
  Avg: 14.7

1. Holm, Niigata Albi.	14.7
2. Hamilton, Fukuok.	11.5
3. Staten, Chiba Jets	10.9
4. Rickert, Kyoto H.	10.8
5. Searcy, Toyama G.	10.5
6. Mims, Sendai 89ers	10.4
7. Malloy, Iwate B.	10.3
8. Roberts, Shins.	10.1
9. Blackledge, Osaka	10.0
10. Parker, Shimane SM	10.0

Assists Per Game

Kenny SATTERFIELD
  Saitam.
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Satterfield, Saita.	6.7
2. Gardener, Akita NH	5.6
3. Shimura, Sendai	5.6
4. Takushi, Oita H.	5.6
5. Dixon, Hamamats.	5.2
6. Yamamoto, Shima.	4.9
7. Dukes, Sendai 89e.	4.6
8. Yamamoto, Iwate B.	4.4
9. Staten, Chiba Jets	4.2
10. Namizato, Okina.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Jamel STATEN
  Chiba Jets
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Staten, Chiba Jets	2.8
2. Palmer, Fukuoka	2.7
3. Parker, Shimane SM	2.4
4. Smith, Takamats.	2.1
5. Humphrey, Saitama	2.1
6. Lyons, Miyazaki SS	2.0
7. Klaiber, Iwate B.	2.0
8. Joho, Toyama G.	1.9
9. Arnold, Hamamats.	1.8
10. Dixon, Hamamats.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Jeral DAVIS
  Shimane SM
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Davis, Shimane SM	3.7
2. Singleton, Sendai	3.0
3. Blackledge, Osaka	3.0
4. Broxsie, Chiba Jets	2.5
5. Blackledge, Hamama.	2.4
6. Mims, Sendai 89ers	1.6
7. Marshall, Osaka E.	1.6
8. Hughes, Shinshu BW	1.5
9. Dukes, Sendai 89e.	1.3
10. Moliva, Chiba Jets	1.3

#1 Hamamatsu Phoenix is defeated by Oita Heat Devils - by Eurobasket News

The games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 4 rounds. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Hamamatsu Phoenix (33-15) on the court of eighth ranked Oita Heat Devils on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by Oita Heat Devils 105-93. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 59-43 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Oita Heat Devils shot 66.7 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Hamamatsu Phoenix's players. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV, agency: Top Notch Sports) scored 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Taj Finger (203-86) chipped in 21 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was guard Jermaine Dixon (191-87, college: Pittsburgh, agency: VVG Sports) with 17 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Oita Heat Devils maintains eighth position with 20-28 record. Defending champion Hamamatsu Phoenix still keeps top place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Osaka Evessa. Oita Heat Devils are looking forward to face Saitama Broncos (#10) at home in the next round. Hamamatsu Phoenix will play against Takamatsu FA (#9) and is hoping to win this game.
Fifth-ranked Toyama Grouses (24-24) gave a tough game to second ranked Osaka Evessa (33-15). The visitors from Osaka managed to secure only three-point victory 81-78. However their fans expected easier game. American forward Michael Bell (206-82, college: Florida Atlantic) notched a double-double by scoring 11 points, 16 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort and Wayne Marshall supported him with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks. Even a double-double of 27 points and 14 rebounds by American forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: SDJ Sports) did not help to save the game for Toyama Grouses. Osaka Evessa have a solid three-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Hamamatsu P. lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Toyama Grouses at the other side dropped to the sixth place with 24 games lost. Osaka Evessa will play against Kyoto Hannar. (#4) at home in the next round. Toyama Grouses will play against Miyazaki Shining Suns and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Chiba between Miyazaki Shining Suns and Chiba Jets. Seventh ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (21-27) got a very close victory on the road over 8th ranked Chiba Jets (18-30). Miyazaki Shining Suns managed to escape with a 2-point win 78-76 in the fight for the seventh place. The best player for the winners was Dexter Lyons who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Maurice Hargrow who recorded 25 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Chiba Jets' coach Eric Gardow rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Miyazaki Shining Suns maintains seventh position with 21-27 record which they share with defeated Chiba Jets. Loser Chiba Jets dropped to the seventh place with 30 games lost. They share the position with Shinshu BW. Miyazaki Shining Suns will meet higher ranked Toyama Grouses (#6) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Chiba Jets will play against the league's leader Okinawa GK where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Akita Happinets (28-22) against sixth ranked Shimane Magic (26-24) on Sunday night. Visiting Akita Happinets were defeated by Shimane Magic in a tough game in Shimane 79-85. It was a good game for Michael Parker who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 21 rebounds. Shimane Magic maintains sixth position with 26-24 record. Akita Happinets at the other side keep the second place with 22 games lost. Shimane Magic will have a break next round. Akita Happinets will play on the road against Iwate Big Bulls.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Niigata. One of their biggest challengers host Niigata Albirex (26-22) lost to fourth ranked Kyoto Hannar. (31-17) 90-82. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Jermaine Boyette scored 24 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners. Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Kyoto Hannar. have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 31-17 record which they share with defeated Niigata Albirex. Loser Niigata Albirex keeps the fourth place with 22 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. will face league's second-placed Osaka Evessa on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Niigata Albirex will play against Shiga L-Stars and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 54: Shinshu BW lost to Shiga L-Stars on the opponent's court 68-82. Saitama Bron. unfortunately lost to Fukuoka Rizing in a home game 69-75. Iwate Big Bulls was rolled over Sendai 89ers on the road 51-83.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 29 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists by Johnny Dukes of Sendai 89ers.

Shiga L-Stars - Shinshu BW 82-68

Very expected game when 7th ranked Shinshu BW (18-30) was defeated on the road by third ranked Shiga L-Stars (32-16) 82-68 on Sunday. Shiga L-Stars dominated on the defensive end, holding Shinshu BW to just 6 points in second quarter. Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Yu Okada (184-83) chipped in 14 points during the contest. Shiga L-Stars' coach Al Westover used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was American guard Derek Raivio (190-84, college: Gonzaga) with 20 points and his fellow American import power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Four Shinshu BW players scored in double figures. Shiga L-Stars have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 32-16 record having just three points less than leader Hamamatsu P. Shinshu BW lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 30 games lost. Shiga L-Stars will face Niigata Albirex (#4) on the road in the next round. Shinshu BW will play against Fukuoka Rizing and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shiga L-Stars: D.Gomez Camargo 17+11reb+1ast, J.Peppers 15+1reb, Y.Okada 14+2reb+2ast, R.Nixon 8+3reb+2ast, B.Markson 7+5reb+2ast, S.Ogawa 6+2reb+3ast
Shinshu BW: D.Raivio 20+2reb+3ast, L.Roberts 18+6reb, E.Morris 13+9reb, T.Hughes 12+9reb+3ast, T.Saito 5+5reb+1ast, Y.Matsubara 0

Shimane SM - Akita NH 85-79

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Akita Happinets (28-22) against sixth ranked Shimane Magic (26-24) on Sunday night. Visiting Akita Happinets were defeated by Shimane Magic in a tough game in Shimane 79-85. It looked good early as Akita Happinets took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Shimane Magic had a 18-11 second period charge getting the lead and Akita Happinets were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 79-85. Shimane Magic made 23-of-29 charity shots (79.3 percent) during the game. Shimane Magic outrebounded Akita Happinets 49-31 including a 36-23 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for American forward Michael Parker (202-81, college: Evergreen St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 21 rebounds. The other American import forward Benjamin Puckett (205-83, college: Clayton St., agency: I.D.S. Law) contributed with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Ricky Woods (194-84, college: SE Louisiana) replied with 41 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and American-Kittitian forward Kyle Swanston (201-86, college: JMU, agency: SDJ Sports) added 10 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Akita Happinets. Shimane Magic maintains sixth position with 26-24 record. Akita Happinets at the other side keep the second place with 22 games lost. Shimane Magic will have a break next round. Akita Happinets will play on the road against Iwate Big Bulls.
Top scorers:
Shimane SM: M.Parker 23+21reb+2ast, B.Puckett 20+11reb+1ast, K.Yamabuchi 11+4reb, E.Yamamoto 9+4reb+3ast, M.Williams 9+2reb+7ast, J.Nakama 7+4reb+5ast
Akita NH: R.Woods 41+6reb+3ast, Y.Kikuchi 18+1reb, K.Swanston 10+8reb+1ast, L.Green 6+8reb+3ast, K.Shoji 3+1reb+1ast, E.Drayton 1+1reb

Oita H.Devils - Hamamatsu P. 105-93

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Hamamatsu Phoenix (33-15) on the court of eighth ranked Oita Heat Devils on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by Oita Heat Devils 105-93. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 59-43 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Oita Heat Devils shot 66.7 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Hamamatsu Phoenix's players. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV, agency: Top Notch Sports) scored 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Taj Finger (203-86) chipped in 21 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was guard Jermaine Dixon (191-87, college: Pittsburgh, agency: VVG Sports) with 17 points and forward Jeffrey Parmer (203-85, college: Florida Atlantic, agency: Dynamics Global Management) scored 15 points and 4 assists. Five Oita Heat Devils and four Hamamatsu Phoenix players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Oita Heat Devils maintains eighth position with 20-28 record. Defending champion Hamamatsu Phoenix still keeps top place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Osaka Evessa. Oita Heat Devils are looking forward to face Saitama Broncos (#10) at home in the next round. Hamamatsu Phoenix will play against Takamatsu FA (#9) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Oita H.Devils: W.White 27+9reb+2ast, T.Finger 21+8reb+1ast, N.Takushi 16+2reb+9ast, T.Cummings 14+5reb+1ast, M.Lottich 13+6reb+4ast, M.Ohara 7+1reb+4ast
Hamamatsu P.: J.Dixon 17+3reb+3ast, J.Parmer 15+3reb+4ast, L.Pomare 14+6reb+1ast, L.Blackledge 11+3reb+1ast, S.Nakanishi 11+1reb+1ast, W.Arnold 9+4reb+3ast

Niigata Albirex - Kyoto Hannar. 82-90

The game between Top Four teams took place in Niigata. One of their biggest challengers host Niigata Albirex (26-22) lost to fourth ranked Kyoto Hannar. (31-17) 90-82. Kyoto Hannar. forced 19 Niigata Albirex turnovers. Niigata Albirex was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Guard Jermaine Boyette (188-78, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) scored 24 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and forward Rick Rickert (211-83, college: Minnesota, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was power forward Chris Holm (212-84, college: Vermont) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) scored 15 points. Five Kyoto Hannar. and four Niigata Albirex players scored in double figures. Kyoto Hannar. have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 31-17 record which they share with defeated Niigata Albirex. Loser Niigata Albirex keeps the fourth place with 22 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. will face league's second-placed Osaka Evessa on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Niigata Albirex will play against Shiga L-Stars and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kyoto Hannar.: J.Boyette 24+7reb+3ast, K.Setoyama 14+3reb+3ast, R.Rickert 14+8reb+1ast, B.Camara 12+9reb+1ast, T.Kawabe 12+3ast, N.Nakamura 7+2reb+1ast
Niigata Albirex: E.Maxey 16+5reb, C.Holm 15+12reb+3ast, N.Murry 15+3reb+3ast, Y.Ikeda 10+3reb+2ast, S.Komatsu 9, D.Gordon 8+5reb+1ast

Toyama Grouses - Osaka Evessa 78-81

Fifth-ranked Toyama Grouses (24-24) gave a tough game to second ranked Osaka Evessa (33-15). The visitors from Osaka managed to secure only three-point victory 81-78. However their fans expected easier game. It looked good early as Toyama Grouses took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Osaka Evessa had a 24-11 second period charge getting the lead and Toyama Grouses were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-81. American forward Michael Bell (206-82, college: Florida Atlantic) notched a double-double by scoring 11 points, 16 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort and the other American import center Wayne Marshall (211-86, college: Temple) supported him with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks. Even a double-double of 27 points and 14 rebounds by American forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: SDJ Sports) did not help to save the game for Toyama Grouses. Masashi Joho (183-82) added 18 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Osaka Evessa have a solid three-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Hamamatsu P. lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Toyama Grouses at the other side dropped to the sixth place with 24 games lost. Osaka Evessa will play against Kyoto Hannar. (#4) at home in the next round. Toyama Grouses will play against Miyazaki Shining Suns and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Osaka Evessa: W.Marshall 24+7reb, C.Aoki 16+2reb+2ast, S.Takeda 15+1reb+1ast, M.Bell 11+16reb+6ast, B.St.Preux 9+4reb+3ast, K.Tyner 4+1reb+1ast
Toyama Grouses: I.Brown 27+14reb, M.Joho 18+6reb+1ast, L.Turner 14+7reb+2ast, B.Harper 10+7reb, T.Mito 4+3reb+3ast, B.Gillespie 3+1reb

Saitama Bron. - Fukuoka Rizing 69-75

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked Fukuoka Rizing (30-18) defeated on the road 9th ranked Saitama Broncos (14-34) 75-69 on Sunday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Saitama Broncos won third quarter 22-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Fukuoka Rizing won last quarter 25-21. They also forced 23 Saitama Broncos turnovers. The game was dominated by American players. Swingman Kevin Palmer (198-87, college: Texas A&M-CC, agency: VVG Sports) had a double-double by scoring 24 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists and 9 steals to lead the charge for the winners and swingman Carlos Dixon (201-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Top Notch Sports) chipped in 22 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was swingman John Humphrey (188-80, college: Middle Tenn.St., agency: Court Side) with 26 points and 6 rebounds and forward John Flowers (200-89, college: W.Virginia, agency: KMG Sports Management) scored 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Fukuoka Rizing maintains fifth position with 30-18 record. Saitama Broncos lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth place with 34 games lost. Fukuoka Rizing will face Shinshu BW (#7) in Nagano in the next round. Saitama Broncos will play on the road against Oita Heat Devils and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fukuoka Rizing: K.Palmer 24+16reb+4ast, C.Dixon 22+3reb, G.Hamilton 10+9reb+3ast, J.Nakanishi 6+2reb, J.Dearman 6+6reb+1ast, A.Takeno 4+2ast
Saitama Bron.: J.Humphrey 26+6reb, J.Flowers 17+9reb+5ast, Y.Arai 8+5reb+3ast, J.Miller 6+7reb+1ast, Y.Kitamuki 6+1reb+1ast, M.Haraguchi 4+3reb

Chiba Jets - Miyazaki SS 76-78

A very close game took place in Chiba between Miyazaki Shining Suns and Chiba Jets. Seventh ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (21-27) got a very close victory on the road over 8th ranked Chiba Jets (18-30). Miyazaki Shining Suns managed to escape with a 2-point win 78-76 in the fight for the seventh place. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Chiba Jets won third quarter 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Chiba Jets outrebounded Miyazaki Shining Suns 49-34 including 36 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American swingman Dexter Lyons (198-81, college: Cent.Florida, agency: I.D.S. Law) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Takuro Ito (183-83) chipped in 19 points. Four Miyazaki Shining Suns players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Maurice Hargrow (193-83, college: Minnesota, agency: SDJ Sports) who recorded 25 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and his fellow American import guard Jamel Staten (198-83, college: Minnesota St., agency: SDJ Sports) added 11 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. Chiba Jets' coach Eric Gardow rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Miyazaki Shining Suns maintains seventh position with 21-27 record which they share with defeated Chiba Jets. Loser Chiba Jets dropped to the seventh place with 30 games lost. They share the position with Shinshu BW. Miyazaki Shining Suns will meet higher ranked Toyama Grouses (#6) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Chiba Jets will play against the league's leader Okinawa GK where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Miyazaki SS: T.Ito 19+3reb+2ast, D.Lyons 17+12reb+5ast, L.Witcher 15+6reb+1ast, O.Shinnosuke 15+3reb+1ast, T.Shimizu 4+2reb+8ast, Y.Kojima 4+7reb+2ast
Chiba Jets: M.Hargrow 25+8reb+5ast, T.Kensuke 15+2ast, J.Staten 11+14reb+5ast, T.Ishida 10+2reb+1ast, G.Moliva 6+8reb+1ast, A.Broxsie 6+12reb+2ast

Sendai 89ers - Iwate Big Bulls 83-51

Not a big story in a game when 10th ranked Iwate Big Bulls (15-33) were rolled over on the road by sixth ranked Sendai 89ers (25-23) 83-51 on Sunday. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Sendai 89ers dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Iwate Big Bulls' 24. Sendai 89ers forced 20 Iwate Big Bulls turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Sendai 89ers made 8 blocks. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Johnny Dukes (203-84, college: San Bernardino CC) had a double-double by scoring 29 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Daniel Fitzgerald (206-84, college: Marquette) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Fitzgerald is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Sendai 89ers' coach Robert Pierce felt very confident that he used 11 players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was forward Jamal Boykin (203-87, college: California) with 10 points and 8 rebounds and forward Thomas Kennedy (201-87, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: SDJ Sports) scored 10 points and 7 rebounds. Sendai 89ers moved-up to fifth place. Loser Iwate Big Bulls dropped to the ninth position with 33 games lost. Sendai 89ers will face higher ranked Yokohama BC (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Iwate Big Bulls will play against the league's second-placed Akita Happinets (#2).
Top scorers:
Sendai 89ers: J.Dukes 29+11reb+5ast, D.Fitzgerald 18+5reb+2ast, T.Komoda 9+6reb, T.Shimura 9+4reb+8ast, R.Singleton 7+8reb+5ast, T.Yasuda 5
Iwate Big Bulls: M.Sawaguchi 12+2reb+3ast, T.Kennedy 10+7reb+2ast, J.Boykin 10+8reb+3ast, L.Malloy 9+10reb, G.Klaiber 5+8reb+1ast, Y.Yamamoto 2+2reb+2ast

Japanese BJ League round 54 best performance: Michael Parker - by Eurobasket News

American forward Michael Parker (202-F-81) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Shimane SM, receiving a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 54.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 23 points and 21 rebounds, while his team beat Akita NH (#2, 28-22) 85-79. Shimane SM maintains the 6th position in Japanese BJ League. Shimane SM 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 26-24 record. Parker turned to be Shimane SM's top player in his first season with the team. Former Evergreen State College star has very solid stats this year. Parker is league's best scorer averaging so far 23.1ppg. Parker is in league's top in and averages impressive 2.4spg and 55.9% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Johnny Dukes (203-F-84) of Sendai 89ers. Dukes had a very good evening with a double-double of 29 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead Sendai 89ers to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Iwate Big Bulls (#9, 15-33) 83-51. This victory allowed Sendai 89ers to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 25-23 record is not bad and everything may still change. Dukes is a newcomer at Sendai 89ers, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman Kevin Palmer (198-G/F-87, agency: VVG Sports) of Fukuoka Rizing (#5). Palmer showcased his all-around game by recording 24 points, sixteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Fukuoka Rizing, leading his team to a 75-69 win against the lower-ranked Saitama Bron. (#10, 14-34). Fukuoka Rizing needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 30 victories and 18 lost games. Palmer has a great season in Japan. After 47 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.5ppg (3rd best). He also has 2.7spg and FGP: 54.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ricky Woods (194-F/G-84) of Akita NH - 41 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Ira Brown (193-F-82) of Toyama Grouses - 27 points and 14 rebounds
6. Jermaine Boyette (188-G-78) of Kyoto Hannar. - 24 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Maurice Hargrow (193-G-83) of Chiba Jets - 25 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Taj Finger (203-F-86) of Oita H.Devils - 21 points and 8 rebounds
9. Wendell White (198-G-84) of Oita H.Devils - 27 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Benjamin Puckett (205-F-83) of Shimane SM - 20 points and 11 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)

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KENYA

NBA Provincial League Throws Off This Weekend - by Eurobasket News

THE 2012 Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) Provincial League throws off on Sunday, according to fixtures secretary Caleb Osewe disclosed yesterday.
The league will feature 24 teams in the men and 10 in the women's category. Osewe said the men's will be divided into two pools (A and B).v 'We have divided the league into two groups because of the many teams we have.
This is an easier way to manage things than having a straight off one,' he said.
ZONE A: Barclays Bank of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat),Little Prince, Kenyatta University, Don Bosco, Neosasa Morans, Dolphins, Mount Kenya University Thika, Zetech College, Upper Hill School and Saints.
ZONE B.Strathmore University,Baraka Extreme,Old Pirates, Legacy, MMU, Heroes, Kenya Polytechnic 8.Mount Kenya University Nairobi, Our Lady of Prince, Daystar University,JKUAT karen and Equity Bank
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.com/

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

KOSOVO

Drita changes the coach - by Dren Shporta

The struggling team of BKT Superliga, Drita, just three matches before the end of the regular season, has changed the coach. Drita board members have sacked coach Gyltekin Selimi and brought experienced Agron Kurtalani in the team.

Drita has shown some good matches during the season but mostly lacking of experience they lost them. Until now they have registered only 4 victories and all the other matches they lost.

They have only three more matches in BKT Superliga and they have a low chance to stay in the kosovan basketball elite. The new coach said to the local newspapers that he will try to do everything to win two of his three last matches even it is more than a hard job.

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

LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Zanis PEINERS
  LU
  (203-G-90)
  Avg: 18.9

1. Peiners, LU	18.9
2. Kalve, Valmiera	18.8
3. Mayo, Liepaja	18.4
4. Lucas, Valmiera	16.7
5. Ozols, Jurmala	16.4
6. Krumins, Jelgava	15.8
7. Mediss, Turiba	15.5
8. Young, Ventspils	14.3
9. Bankevics, Valmiera	14.3
10. Timma, Liepaja	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Ervins JONATS
  Jurmala
  (199-F-91)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Jonats, Jurmala	9.3
2. Willard, Ventspils	8.4
3. Rozitis, Valmiera	8.0
4. Dargais, LU	7.9
5. Berzins, VEF Riga	7.6
6. Mednis, Turiba	6.7
7. Timma, Liepaja	6.4
8. Kalve, Valmiera	6.3
9. Nelson, Jelgava	5.8
10. Butjankovs, Valmi.	5.8

Assists Per Game

Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5

1. Mayo, Liepaja	5.0
2. Lucas, Valmiera	4.4
3. Kravcenko, Liepaja	4.0
4. Coders, Jurmala	3.6
5. Lejasmeiers, Vents.	3.5
6. Krumins, Jelgava	3.3
7. Gray, Ventspils	3.0
8. Peiners, LU	2.9
9. Silavs, Jelgava	2.9
10. Osins, LU	2.5

Steals Per Game

Kristaps KANBERGS
  Jelgava
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Kanbergs, Jelgava	1.9
2. Peiners, LU	1.8
3. Timma, Liepaja	1.7
4. Osins, LU	1.7
5. Mayo, Liepaja	1.7
6. Gray, Ventspils	1.6
7. Kosuskins, Jurmala	1.4
8. Ozols, Jurmala	1.4
9. Piternieks, Turiba	1.4
10. Young, Ventspils	1.4

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Rozitis, Valmiera	1.5
2. Berzins, VEF Riga	1.2
3. Leiteris, Liepaja	1.0
4. Ozols, Jurmala	0.9
5. Jonats, Jurmala	0.8
6. Plivda, LU	0.7
7. Duselis, Jelgava	0.6
8. Meiers, Ventspils	0.6
9. Krastins, U18	0.5
10. Rubenis, LU	0.5

LU complete the Semifinal picture - by Eurobasket News

Valmiera - LU 92-105

LU complete the Semifinal picture beating Valmiera in Game 3. The game was mostly controlled by Latvijas Universitate. Valmiera managed to win third quarter 27-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Latvijas Universitate especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. 33 personal fouls committed by Valmiera helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for point guard Marcis Vitols (190-92) who led his team to a victory with 28 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Guard Zanis Peiners (203-90, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 21 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The former international swingman Ingus Bankevics (195-85, agency: Players Group) answered with 29 points and 5 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and American guard Jai Lucas (177, college: Texas) added 22 points in the effort for Valmiera. Five Latvijas Universitate and four Valmiera players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Valmiera: I.Bankevics 29+5reb+2ast, J.Lucas 22+4reb+2ast, M.Ziedins 11+4reb+2ast, J.Porzingis 11+6reb+4ast, A.Butjankovs 7+3reb, J.Rozitis 5+4reb
LU: M.Vitols 28+4reb+1ast, Z.Peiners 21+6reb+1ast, I.Aizpurs 21+5reb+1ast, A.Osins 16+4reb+5ast, Z.Plivda 15+10reb, R.Zebergs 3+1ast

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

LEBANON

WABA League: Mahram fire past Riyadi to earn the title - by Eurobasket News

Mahram - Riyadi 96:86

Mahram climbed back on top of WABA League summit. The Iranian powerhouse held off Riyadi in the decisive fifth game of the championship series to clinch the crown. Samad Nik Khakhbahrami stepped up with 28 points, 6 boards and 3 assists to lead the winners.
Mahram stormed into the game taking a 19:4 lead midway through the first term. The Iranian team stretched the margin to as many as 18 points at the first intermission 31:13. The Iranian team maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 50:34 halftime advantage. Riyadi lagged behind in the third term. Mahram stayed dominant posting an 80:68 cushion with ten minutes remaining. The hosts did not slow down in the final stanza cruising to a well-deserved win at the end. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) nailed 20 points, while Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) accounted for 17 points in the winning effort. Jean Abdel Nour (198-F/G-83, agency: Pro Management Agency) and Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) finished with 24 points each for Riyadi.

Mahram: Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) 28, Hamed Afagh 20, Nikoloz Tskitishvili 17
Riyadi: Jean Abdel Nour 24, Dewarick Spencer 24

Sagesse in the FINAL 4 - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

This game turned to be a very decisive one to define the identity of the 4th team in the Final 4, All fans were expecting the game which will join Sagesse to Moutahed this week to be a decisive one but the game that joined Champville to Sagesse killed the suspense and sent Moutahed wondering about the failure of qualifying to the Final 4.
Champvilel who played this game without their 3 stars due to injuries , Fady Khatib, Samuel Hoskin and Marcus Haislip played the game with its local players who showed very good level of Basketball and went fighting till the end , but the absence of the players mentioned above was a big handicap for Champville , Sagesse took advantage from the situation and dominated the game despite leading the game from its first minutes Sagesse couldnt make build a big lead in the first half and finished the first leading 45-40. In the 3rd quarter the run was made and Sagesse outscored Champville 33 to 17 through the combined efforts of Nate Johnson and Sabah Khoury , Champville were answering through Elie Estephane who finished the game as best scorer with 30 points , Carl Sarkis with 16 points and Nadim Hawi who was creating lot of problems to Sagesse defense in the paint , he finished the game with 13 points , 16 rebounds. The 4th quarter saw the two teams relying on their benches and the game saw the two sides using the running game tempo. Champville outscored Sagesse in this quarter 27 to 15. The Game finished at the score of 84-93.

In another game Moutahed won against Byblos on the score of 127-104, Austin Johnson led all scorers with 40 points , Bassel Bawji and Mohamad Akari finished with 24 points , as for Byblos Chudney Gray led his teams with 29 points.

By this win Sagesse confirmed its 4th position in the Standings and qualified to the Final 4. Still to watch the battle for the first position between Champville and Riyadi , the game will join the two teams next Saturday and the winner will have the home court advantage throughout the Final 4 games.

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

LESOTHO

KTA reach semi finals in Pretoria - by Eurobasket News

KTA All Stars basketball club reached the semi final stage of the Chariotors Easter Basketball tournament held in Mamelodi, Pretoria. KTA was in the senior males category which had 12 teams and was divided into two groups. The Khubetsoana club was in group B alongside; Chariotors, Pretoria Heat, Blizzards, Randburg Rhinos and Kwa-thema S. Machines.
The Lesotho club arrived in Mamelodi on Good Friday at 6pm and played their first group game of the tournament against the host team Chariotors at 9pm the very same day, KTA won convincingly by a margin of 45-35. The next match for the Lesotho Basketballers was against a weaker team from Kwa-thema and the Khubetsoana team won 52-26.
At 4pm on Saturday, KTA played Randburg Rhinos, a team based in South Africa comprising of players from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Ghana. Randburg Rhinos dominated the game physically from the first whistle and the teams went into half time Rhinos leading 23-21. After the break the Lesotho players crumbled from the aggressive play applied by the Rhinos and KTA lost 48-33.
The activities for the day were not over as KTA was still scheduled to play one more game at 10pm against Blizzards. KTA recovered from their earlier loss to Rhinos and dominated the game from start to finish and won 47-32.
KTA played their last group game against Pretoria Heat, a team that has dominated the Easter Tournament over the past three years. The Heat team comprises of South Africa national team players and foreign players from other African countries. Heat rested some of their key players for the match against KTA but managed to win 44-36.
After the final group game KTA was 3rd in group B and advanced to the quarterfinals. In the quarterfinals KTA faced Limpopo. The Limpopo team put up a fierce fight but KTA walked away with the victory 58-43. After this win KTA advanced to the semis and faced the Heat again. This time the Heat was much stronger and completely outplayed the All Stars 54-30, to advance to the finals.
Pretoria Heat went on to win the tournament by beating Chariotors B team convincingly in the finals and walked away with the R5000.00 cash prize for the 3rd consecutive year.
This was a very good challenge for KTA. As local league champs and Top4 Finals winners, we represented Lesotho well and have created bonds and relations with other teams and are willing to come and play in Lesotho to share their expertise. Also this was a learning experience for the KTA players, to gain some international exposure as about 9 players from KTA have made the trials for the Lesotho Senior National basketball team, said Ratsolo Molupe, KTA Team Manager.
KTA Line up:
Sekhoane Moshabesha
Setsomali Moshabesha
Lejone Thakanyane
Molale Monnapula
Malebo Mohasi (178-G-86)
Teboho Nkotsi
Tsepo Mohapi
Tsepo Ntsoele
Mofoka Makatja
Thabang Klaas
Ratsolo Molupe
Motloli Mothepu
Results:
KTA 45-35 Chariotors
KTA 33-48 Randburg Rhinos
KTA 47-32 Blizzards
KTA 52-26 Kwa-thema S Machines
KTA36-44 Pretoria Heat
KTA 58-41 Limpopo (Quaterfinals)
KTA 30-54 Pretoria Heat (Semifinals)
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.com/

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

LIGA AMERICAS

Standings

Liga Americas Stage Two Standings

Group E
1. Obras			3-0
2. Pioneros			2-1
3. Itabom/Bauru			1-2
4. Bucaneros			0-3
Group F
1. La Union			2-1
2. Uniceub/BRB			2-1
3. Cocodrilos			1-2
4. Arecibo			1-2

Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 2

Apr. 14: Arecibo - Cocodrilos 96-97 2OT
Apr. 14: La Union - Uniceub/BRB 93-71
Apr. 15: Cocodrilos - La Union 89-99
Apr. 13: Cocodrilos - Uniceub/BRB 80-81
Apr. 15: Arecibo - Uniceub/BRB 72-74
Apr. 13: La Union - Arecibo 68-72

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Tony WASHAM
  Obras
  (200-F-82)
  Avg: 22.6

1. Washam, Obras	22.6
2. Ayuso, Arecibo	18.7
3. Smith, La Union	17.2
4. Lewis, La Union	16.8
5. Hickerson, Bucan.	16.3
6. Nunes, Itabom/B.	16.2
7. Harris, Pioneros	16.0
8. Hornsby, Pioneros	16.0
9. Giovannoni, Unice.	15.2
10. Elliott, Cocodril.	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Gregory LEWIS
  La Union
  (198-F-78)
  Avg: 9.8

1. Lewis, La Union	9.8
2. Garces, Arecibo	8.3
3. Giovannoni, Unice.	7.8
4. Nunes, Itabom/B.	7.3
5. Hickerson, Bucan.	7.3
6. Gutierrez, Obras	7.0
7. Washam, Obras	6.8
8. Colmenares, Cocod.	6.4
9. Field, Obras	6.3
10. Graterol, Cocodri.	6.2

Assists Per Game

Welington DOS SANTOS
  Unice.
  (185-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Dos Santos, Unice.	6.6
2. Konsztatd, Obras	5.7
3. Pinnock, Arecibo	5.0
4. Ribeiro, Un.	4.8
5. Taylor, Itabom/B.	4.2
6. Smith, La Union	3.7
7. Elliott, Cocodrilos	3.5
8. Guevara, Bucaneros	3.5
9. Farabello, La Union	3.3
10. Perez, La Union	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alexis ELSENER
  Obras
  (195-G-88)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Elsener, Obras	3.2
2. Elliott, Cocodrilos	2.5
3. Dos Santos, Unice.	2.0
4. Colmenares, Cocod.	1.8
5. Washam, Obras	1.8
6. Lewis, La Union	1.7
7. Deodato, Itabom/B.	1.7
8. Pinnock, Arecibo	1.5
9. Taylor, Itabom/B.	1.4
10. Konsztatd, Obras	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Alirio DE SOUZA
  Un.
  (208-C-77)
  Avg: 1.3

1. de Souza, Un.	1.3
2. Pinnock, Arecibo	1.3
3. Bayona, Bucaneros	1.2
4. Graterol, Cocodril.	1.0
5. Lewis, La Union	0.8
6. de Sousa, Itabom/.	0.8
7. Wolkowyski, La Uni.	0.8
8. Hickerson, Bucan.	0.8
9. Gutierrez, Obras	0.8
10. Hornsby, Pioneros	0.8

Group F: La Union and Uniceub/BRB advance to Final Four, join Obras and Pioneros - by Eurobasket News

THIRD GAMES

Cocodrilos - La Union 89-99
It was a do-or-die game for both teams. La Union celebrated 99-89 win and booked a spot for the Liga Americas Final Four (April 27-29). Thanks to this victory, La Union won the Group F with almost perfect 2-1 record. At the same time, Cocodrilos dropped to third place with 1-2 and failed to advance. Gregory Lewis (198-F-78, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Winthrop) paced his team to victory with 27 points and 5 rebounds. Ariel Pau (186-G-84) scored 19 points, Joe Smith (193-G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Al.-Huntsville) had 12 pts and 5 assists, and Gabriel Mikulas (200-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) helped with 12 points, plus 5 rebounds. Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) responded for Cocodrilos with 28 points. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) had 19 points and 11 rebounds in this defeat. Quarters: 25-20, 27-22, 21-19, 26-28. Cocodrilos will now focus to Venezuelan LPB.

Arecibo - Uniceub/BRB 72-74
Uniceub/BRB advanced to Liga Americas Final Four. It was a decisive game for both teams and Brazilians managed to take it 74-72 in thriller. Uniceub/BRB finished as No.2 of Group F with 2-1 record. Arecibo is the last ranked team of this pool with 1-2. Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 23 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 and Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) had 13 points, 8 assists and 5 boards. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) top-scored in Arecibo with 21 points. David Cortes (190-G/F-81) and Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) stopped to 12 and 10 points respectively. Quarters: 20-21, 13-11, 22-13, 19-27.

SECOND GAMES

La Union - Uniceub/BRB 93-71
Ariel Pau exploded with 26 points for the winners. Ruben Wolkowyski (207-C-73) secured a great help with 13 points and 12 rebs, while Lucas Perez added 12 pts and 6 assists. In Uniceub/BRB, Alex Ribeiro and Welington Dos Santos (5 as) scored 14 points each. Guilherme Giovannoni had double-double of 13 points and 13 rebs. Quarters: 15-11, 32-15, 22-26, 24-19.

Arecibo - Cocodrilos 96-97 2OT
Jack Michael Martinez shined for the Venezuelan squad with double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds. Leandro Garcia Morales had 19 points, 8 rebs and 7 assists, while Luis Bethelmy (200-F/C-86) scored 18 pts and grabbed 6 rebounds. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) was better than the others in Arecibo with 27 points and 12 rebs. David Cortes scored 19 and Larry Ayuso had 15 points in this meeting. Quarters: 12-27, 18-19, 23-18, 24-13, 8-8 (OT1), 11-12 (OT2).

FIRST GAMES

La Union - Arecibo 68-72
Ike Diogu was a key player in victory with 23 points and 8 rebounds. David Cortes scored 13 pts, while Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, college: G.Washington) (8 as, 6 rebs) and Larry Ayuso netted 12 points each. La Union got 19 points from Anibal Marin (199-G/F-82) and 17 pts, plus 10 rebounds from Gregory Lewis. Quarters: 20-17, 22-20, 17-21, 9-14.

Cocodrilos - Uniceub/BRB 80-81
Alirio de Souza (208-C-77) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Arthur Silva (199-F/G-82) followed with 16 points, while Guilherme Giovannoni added 13 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. In defeat, Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) had 22 points and 5 boards, while Leandro Garcia Morales scored 18 pts. Quarters: 21-27, 22-15, 17-13, 20-26.

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

LITHUANIA

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Laurynas MIKALAUSKAS
  Neptu.
  (205-F-85)
  Avg: 17.7

1. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	17.7
2. Mazeika, Neptunas	14.7
3. Valanciunas, Lietu.	14.7
4. Johnson, Naglis P.	14.6
5. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	13.9
6. Hughes, Pieno Z.	13.9
7. Seibutis, Lietuv.	13.5
8. Long, Siauliai	13.4
9. Urbonas, Juventus	13.3
10. Reminas, Naglis P.	13.0

Rebounds Per Game

Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	10.3
2. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.7
3. Mikalauskas, Neptu.	7.3
4. McClure, Kedainiai	7.0
5. Butkevicius, Rudup.	6.6
6. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	6.5
7. Petrukonis, Juven.	6.4
8. Valeika, Neptunas	6.2
9. Adomaitis, Kedaini.	5.8
10. Katelynas, Lietuv.	5.7

Assists Per Game

Evaldas DAINYS
  Neptunas
  (180-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Dainys, Neptunas	5.5
2. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	4.8
3. Rice, Lietuvos.	4.5
4. Broadus, Siauliai	4.1
5. Peciukeviciu., Sak.	4.0
6. Kadziulis, Rudupis	3.9
7. Popovic, Zalgiris	3.8
8. Maceina, Juventus	3.6
9. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	3.5
10. Samenas, Sakalai	3.4

Steals Per Game

TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Hughes, Pieno Z.	2.3
2. Long, Siauliai	1.9
3. Broadus, Siauliai	1.7
4. Roberts, Lietuvos.	1.6
5. Seibutis, Lietuv.	1.6
6. Ginevicius, Kedain.	1.6
7. Vasiliauskas, Liet.	1.6
8. Salenga, Zalgiris	1.5
9. Juskevicius, Rudup.	1.4
10. Weems, Zalgiris	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 2

1. Valanciunas, Lietu.	2.0
2. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.8
3. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.2
4. Zelionis, Rudupis	1.0
5. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.0
6. Cepukaitis, Lietka.	0.9
7. Samardziski, Lietu.	0.9
8. McClure, Kedainiai	0.9
9. Morgan, Pieno Z.	0.9
10. Javtokas, Zalgiris	0.8

Gintaras Leonavicius leads Huesca against Menorca - by Eurobasket Center

Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group) shows his scoring and leadership abilities in LEB Gold again against Menorca. After missing one game due to sprained ankle Gintaras Leonavicius comes back to put Huesca on the winning path by stunning 2nd ranked Menorca 68:65. Leonavicius led Huesca with 16 points (2PT 3/8, 3PT 3/5), 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 fouls drawn. He is averaging 14.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 57% from 2PT, 33% from 3PT and 80% from FT.

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

LUXEMBOURG

Standings

Diekirch Standings

1-6 places
1. T71		22-4
2. Sparta		20-6
3. Musel Pikes		14-12
4. Residence		13-13
5. Amicale		13-13
6. Etzella		11-15
7-10 places
1. Basket Esch		15-9
2. Soleuvre		12-12
3. BBC Nitia		3-21
4. Heffingen		3-21

Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 8

1-6 places

Apr. 14: Amicale - Etzella 91-70
Apr. 14: Residence - Musel Pikes 80-68
Apr. 14: T71 - Sparta 70-65

7-10 places

Apr. 14: BBC Nitia - Heffingen 85-70
Apr. 14: Soleuvre - Basket Esch 65-86

Second Stage: Round 9

Apr. 20: Sparta - Amicale
Apr. 22: Etzella - Residence
Apr. 22: Musel Pikes - T71

Scoring Leaders - DBBL

Points Per Game

Lamonte ULMER
  Soleuvre
  (198-SF-86)
  Avg: 26.2

1. Ulmer, Soleuvre	26.2
2. Arre, BBC Nitia	25.7
3. Raji, Etzella	23.5
4. Schumacher, T71	22.8
5. Kennedy, Residence	22.4
6. McNutt, Heffingen	22.2
7. Muller, T71	21.0
8. Rajniak, Basket E.	20.4
9. Smith, Sparta	20.0
10. Perre, Musel Pikes	20.0

Rebounds Per Game

Lamonte ULMER
  Soleuvre
  (198-SF-86)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Ulmer, Soleuvre	12.5
2. Gary, Musel Pikes	12.3
3. McNutt, Heffingen	12.0
4. Stephens, T71	11.3
5. Svitek, Basket Es.	10.9
6. Poznaks, BBC Nitia	10.1
7. Kennedy, Residence	9.9
8. Smith, Sparta	9.9
9. Raji, Etzella	9.8
10. Carvalho, Heffing.	9.4

Assists Per Game

Kasey ULIN
  Sparta
  (184-PG-82)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Ulin, Sparta	4.6
2. Schartz, Amicale	4.1
3. Schumacher, T71	3.8
4. Arre, BBC Nitia	3.7
5. Rajniak, Basket E.	3.6
6. Delgado, Etzella	3.3
7. Biever, Basket Es.	3.3
8. Ruffato, T71	3.0
9. Koster, Residence	2.9
10. Jones, Amicale	2.5

Steals Per Game

Christopher JONES
  Amicale
  (188-G-90)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Jones, Amicale	2.5
2. Arre, BBC Nitia	2.2
3. Kennedy, Residence	2.1
4. Carvalho, Heffingen	1.7
5. Ulmer, Soleuvre	1.6
6. Perre, Musel Pikes	1.5
7. Gary, Musel Pikes	1.3
8. Schumacher, T71	1.3
9. Ruffato, T71	1.2
10. McNutt, Heffingen	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Brandon GARY
  Musel Pikes
  (202-F/C-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Gary, Musel Pikes	2.1
2. McNutt, Heffingen	1.5
3. Ulmer, Soleuvre	1.3
4. Hoffmann, Sparta	1.1
5. Carvalho, Heffingen	0.9
6. Jorssen, Soleuvre	0.9
7. Djerman, Amicale	0.6
8. Svitek, Basket Es.	0.5
9. Poznaks, BBC Nitia	0.5
10. Arre, BBC Nitia	0.5

Gumbs' double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

29-year old forward Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for Residence and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 27 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Musel Pikes (#3, 14-12) 80-68. Residence maintains the 4th position in Luxembourg league. Residence is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 13th lost game this season out of 26 games. In the team's last game Gumbs had a remarkable 64.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Residence's top player in his first season with the team. Jerome Gumbs averages this season 19.8ppg and 7.2rpg.

Second best performed player last round was William Arre (199-F-86) of BBC Nitia. He is American forward in his second season at BBC Nitia. In the last game Arre recorded impressive triple-double of 34 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists. Of course he lead BBC Nitia to another comfortable win 85-70 over Heffingen (3-21) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed BBC Nitia to move up to -3th position in 7-10 places. 21 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories BBC Nitia managed to get this Second Stage. Arre is well-known at BBC Nitia and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 25.7ppg (#2). His other stats are also decent: 8.5rpg and 3.7apg.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Billy McNutt (203-F-85) of Heffingen (#-2). McNutt scored 23 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite McNutt's great performance Heffingen lost 70-85 to #-3 ranked BBC Nitia. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. Heffingen can only dream about fighting for top spots in 7-10 places. They have rather bad season and 3-21 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for McNutt he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. McNutt has individually a great season in Luxembourg. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 22.2ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 12.0rpg (3rd best). He also has 1.5bpg and FGP: 54.5%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Corey Raji (198-F-88) of Etzella - 26 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Dimitri Jorssen (212-C/F-79) of Soleuvre - 22 points and 10 rebounds
6. Christopher Jones (188-G-90) of Amicale - 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Kasey Ulin (184-PG-82) of Sparta - 27 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Stefan Svitek (203-F/C-77) of Basket Esch - 16 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84) of Residence - 20 points and 12 rebounds
10. Guy Schmit (187-G-80) of Musel Pikes - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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MEXICO

PALERMO 2012 CIBACOPA Pre-season Tournament - by Alejandro Martinez

The Palermo 2012 CIBACOPA Tournament was held in Nogales Sonora prior to the start of the CIBACOPA season on Feb 24-26th. That tournament was to serve as a showcase for all 10 CIBACOPA teams that were looking for import talent. The tournament had some success stories we would like to share. There were a total of 6 guys signed from the tournament: PG Tayloe Taylor (191-G-86, college: Livingstone) signed with Los Mochis and is currently 2nd in the league in assists. G Andre Oupoh (196-F-84, college: Abil.Christian) signed with Culiacan and participated in over 10 games with the team. Forward Charles Moore (201-F-86, college: S.Arkansas) signed with Guasave and is currently still with the team. G/F Mychal Henderson (198-G/F-85, college: Ks Wesleyan) signed originally with Tepic and was traded to Culiacan and is still in their roster. Guard Darrin Dorsey (188-PG, college: Dakota Wesleyan) started the year with 2nd place team Guaymas and is currently de-activated from the roster. Lastly, Kwan Waller (180-G-89, college: Ky Wesleyan) was signed by the 2011 defending champion Cananea and is still their starting point guard. The league is planning a larger event next year which may include representatives from LICOMUBA and LNBP.
There were other players who are still in several team's radars who had a good participation in the tournament. These players include: Vince Goldsberry (182-PG-89, college: Coppin St.), big man Bobby Howard (200-F-88, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Montana St.), D'Andre Brown and PG Joe Davis (183-G-88), Royce Gaye (193-G/F-88) and Shannon Shorter (193-G-89).

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MONTENEGRO

Standings - 1A

1A Stage Two Standings

S-League
1. Buducnost		6-1
2. Mornar Bar		5-2
3. Sutjeska		4-3
4. Lovcen		3-4
5. Teodo Tivat		2-5
6. Ulcinj		1-6
Play-Out
1. KK Podgorica		5-1
2. Jedinstvo		4-2
3. ABS Primorje		4-2
4. Danilovgrad		3-3
5. Centar BP		2-4
6. Mogren		0-6

Erste Basketball League Standings

Second Stage: Round 8

Play-Out

Apr. 17: Mogren - Jedinstvo
Apr. 17: KK Podgorica - ABS Primorje
Apr. 17: Centar BP - Danilovgrad

S-League

Apr. 17: Ulcinj - Mornar Bar
Apr. 17: Buducnost - Lovcen
Apr. 17: Sutjeska - Teodo Tivat

Standings - 1B

1B Standings

1. Ibar Rozaje		11-4
2. Un.Mediteran		9-7
3. S.Centar		8-4
4. Rudar		8-5
5. Centar BP		7-4
6. Gorstak		7-5
7. Berane 2010		7-8
8. Kotor		6-8
9. Zeta		5-10
10. Pljevlja		1-14

Rakocevic wins the Cup abroad - by Eurobasket News

Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) wins the Cup with his Lugano Tigers that celebrated Swiss Cup title. They narrowly defeated Monthey 76:74 in the Final. Mohammed Abukar stepped up with 22 points to pace the winners, while Zarko Rakocevic collected 8 points and 7 rebounds. Lugano thus defended their Swiss Cup title.
Monthey opened the game at the St. Leonard Arena on a high note. They established a 23:16 lead after ten minutes. Monthey stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 44:33 halftime advantage. But the defending champions put up the pressure on their opponents in the third term. The Tigers limited Monthey to just 14 points in the third term erasing the deficit. The teams entered the fourth frame tied at 58. Lugano used all of their experience in the final seconds to secure a narrow victory at the end. Rod Brown produced 14 points, while Edwin Draughan added 12 points in the victory. Sean Finn topscored for Monthey with 27 points. Terry Smith nailed 12 points in the loss.
This season Zarko Rakocevic averages 13.2 points per game.

MNE S-League 7. Round : Buducnost win in derby game , new win for Teodo and Lovcen - by Dragan Scepanovic

Mornar - Buducnost 58:73 (23:22, 13:23, 9:16, 13:12)
Bar SC Topolica. Spect: 600. Reff: Sutulovic (Podgorica), R. Vojinovic (Niksic), Rutesic (Niksic).
Mornar: Pajovic 3, Damjanovic, Kasalica, Ivanovic 7, Skot 6, Jelenic 5, Radosavljevic 9, Sekulovic, Pavic 2, Vujosevic 4, Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) 11, Singlteri 11.
Buducnost: Mihailovic 7, M. Popovic, Milosevic 8, Radovic 2, Vitkovac 9, Dubljevic 24, Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) 8, Ivanovic 7, Anderson 4, Nikolic, Mugosa 4, Boldin.

Lovcen - Sutjeska 81:77 (18:22, 22:28, 22:11, 19:16)
Cetinje -SC Lovcen.Spect: 500. Reff: Lepetic (Herceg Novi), Jokic, Sundic (Podgorica).
Lovcen: Stojanovic 15, Djokovic 19, S. Latkovic, Marko Milosevic (202-SF-84), Nikola Pavlicevic (192-SG-88) 7, Masan Vrbica (187-G-94) 12, Borilovic, Koprivica, Lopicic 14, Ivan Zejak (203-SF-87) 10, Milic 2, Kusovac 2, M. Latkovic.
Sutjeska: Kovac 4, Zarubica 2, Vranjes 36, Jovanovic 5, Grabovica, Popovic 4, Zarko Dragicevic (188-G-81) 2, Jocovic 5, Gajovic 9, Kuveljic, Pejovic 10, Krivokapic.

Teodo - Ulcinj 86:73 (27:16, 21:24, 14:18, 24:15)
Tivat -SC Zupa.Spect: 200. Reff: Dragojevic, Koljensic (Podgorica), Kaludjerovic (Niksic).
Teodo: Marko Mijovic (188-G-87) 22, Danilovic 2, Stancic , Aleksandar Radulovic (207-C-84) 16, Pekic 9 , Marko Calic (195-G/F-86) 3, Boskovic 14, Subotic 2, Radonjic, Marko Ljujic (205-C-90) 5, Milosevic 13, Lucic.
Ulcinj: Latkovic 5, Djurisic 11, Kopitovic, Klikovac, Djeljosevic 2, Lalovic, Boban Medenica (204-F-87) 5, Unkasevic 16, Markasevic, Tepavcevic 19, Taflaj, Djurkovic 15.

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NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.1

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	28.1
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.8
3. James, Miami Heat	26.9
4. Love, Minnesota T.	26.0
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	24.3
6. Wade, Miami Heat	22.6
7. Rose, Chicago B.	22.5
8. Anthony, New Y.	22.2
9. Ellis, Golde S.	21.9
10. Aldridge, Portlan.	21.7

Rebounds Per Game

Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5

1. Howard, Orlando M.	14.5
2. Love, Minnesota T.	13.4
3. Bynum, LA Lakers	12.2
4. Cousins, Sacramen.	11.0
5. Humphries, New J.	11.0
6. Griffin, LA Clipp.	10.9
7. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.5
8. Chandler, New Y.	10.0
9. Gortat, Phoenix	9.8
10. Noah, Chicago B.	9.7

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Rondo, Boston C.	11.6
2. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.9
3. Paul, LA Clippers	9.0
4. Calderon, Toron.	8.8
5. Williams, New J.	8.7
6. Rubio, Minnesot.	8.2
7. Rose, Chicago B.	7.9
8. Wall, Washington W.	7.7
9. Parker, San A.	7.6
10. Lowry, Houston R.	7.0

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Paul, LA Clippers	2.5
2. Conley, Memphis G.	2.3
3. Rubio, Minnesot.	2.2
4. James, Miami Heat	1.9
5. Rondo, Boston C.	1.8
6. Iguodala, Philadel.	1.8
7. Millsap, Utah Jazz	1.8
8. Shumpert, New Y.	1.8
9. Ariza, N.Orleans H.	1.7
10. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	3.6
2. McGee, Washingt.	2.5
3. Howard, Orlando M.	2.1
4. Jordan, LA Clippers	2.1
5. Hibbert, Indiana P.	2.0
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	1.9
7. Gasol, Memphis G.	1.9
8. Smith, Atlanta H.	1.8
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.7
10. Dalembert, Houst.	1.7

Gasol listed as day to day with bone bruise. - by Bryan Floyd

An MRI on Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances) revealed a bone bruise on his left knee and he's been listed as day-to-day. The good news is that Gasol didn't sustain any major damage when he banged knees with Xavier Henry on Sunday. At this point it would make the most sense for the Grizzlies to rest him as much as possible with a favorable schedule for the final few games. They are already locked in the playoffs and will need Gasol at 100 percent if they plan to make a playoff run. Gasol will be officially listed as doubtful for Tuesdays game.

Ex-NBA player Schintzius dies - by Eurobasket News

Dwayne Schintzius (7'2''-C-68, college: Florida), a former first-round pick who spent nine seasons in the NBA, died Sunday afternoon from respiratory failure at the age of 43, The Tampa (Fla.) Tribune reported.

A 7-foot-2 center, Schintzius led the University of Florida to its first three NCAA tournament appearances. He remains the only SEC player with more than 1,000 points, 800 rebounds, 250 assists and 250 blocked shots.

Schintzius was diagnosed with Myelomonocytic Leukemia in 2009 and was declared cancer-free after receiving a successful bone marrow transplant from his younger brother Travis in early 2010.

But further issues required Schintzius to undergo a second bone marrow transplant and he endured months of complications from the procedure leading up to his death.

'He's at peace now,' Travis said. 'He's not suffering anymore. Now he's probably cracking jokes and making people laugh in heaven.'

Schintzius was selected 24th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 1990 NBA Draft. He went on to have stints with the Kings, Nets, Pacers, Clippers and Celtics, but his career was ravaged by injuries.

He was well known for his mullet hairdo and also for his performance as a Russian basketball player in the 1996 comedy 'Eddie,' starring Whoopi Goldberg.

Twice divorced with no children, Schintzius is survived by his brother, Travis, and parents, Ken and Linda.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Magic GM says Dwight Howard will rest injured back for 10 days - by Eurobasket News

Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) will rest his injured back for the next 10 days and then will be reevaluated, Orlando Magic General Manager Otis Smith said Sunday.

Smith acknowledged that there is no guarantee that Howard, who has a herniated disk in his lower back and has suffered from persistent back spasms, will be available when the playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 28.

It's not up to me, Smith said before the Magic faced the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. His body's going to have to pretty much tell us if he can go or not.

Coach Stan Van Gundy said Howard received an epidural injection to treat the symptoms and likely will begin physical-therapy work Monday.

Howard joined the team in Cleveland but did not attend the shootaround and was slated to meet the team at its bus after it faced the Cavs, a team official said.

Howard now has missed four consecutive games and has missed six overall because of his back injury, which team officials initially labeled as back spasms. Team officials and Howard initially said Howard did not have any disk problems.

On Friday, Howard traveled to the Los Angeles area with Magic physical therapist Ed Manalo to seek a second opinion from spine surgeon Robert Watkins. On Friday night, team officials announced that Howard has a herniated disk in his lower back.

On Sunday, Smith refuted speculation that the Magic medical staff misdiagnosed Howard's injury.

The diagnosis really didn't change from one location to the other, Smith said.

It's the same diagnosis we had and the same prognosis we had. They probably were a little bit more conservative than we would have been, but that's normal. We were on the same rest and rehab [regimen] that he got over there. So, he's going to rest and rehab for the next 10 days and see how we go from there.

Courtesy of http://articles.orlandosentinel.com

Sunday's games review (9): Heat beat Knicks 93-85, clinch Southeast Division - by Eurobasket News

Cleveland C. - Orlando M. 84-100
Jameer Nelson (6'0''-PG-82, college: St.Joseph's) scored 21 points and the Orlando Magic clinched a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference with a 100-84 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night. Orlando led from wire-to-wire despite playing without star center Dwight Howard, who has missed the last four games with a herniated disk in his back. The news the Magic made the postseason took a back seat to the team's injury list, which seems to grow by the day. Howard and forward Hedo Turkoglu (facial fracture) are sidelined indefinitely. Coach Stan Van Gundy said before the game he's preparing to play the rest of the regular season and the playoffs without the two players. Orlando took another injury hit in the first quarter when Glen Davis, who had played well at center with Howard sidelined, sustained a sprained right knee and didn't return. He will undergo a further examination Monday. Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) added 16 points for Orlando, which had five players in double figures. J.J. Redick scored 13. Antawn Jamison led the Cavaliers with 21 points. Donald Sloan scored a career-high 15. Cleveland completed its only set of back-to-back-to-back games this season. The Cavaliers lost in Indiana on Friday and picked up a road win in Washington on Saturday. The Cavaliers again played without rookie point guard Kyrie Irving, who missed his 10th straight game with a sprained right shoulder. Coach Byron Scott ruled Irving out for Tuesday's game in Detroit, but said it's possible he'll return Wednesday night when Cleveland hosts Philadelphia. It's uncertain if center Anderson Varejao will return this season. Varejao hasn't played since sustaining a fractured right wrist on Feb. 10. Orlando was in control throughout in the battle of short-handed teams in extending its winning streak over Cleveland to nine games. The Cavaliers scored 15 points in each of the first two quarters and shot 28.9 percent in the first half. Howard missed his fourth straight game. The Magic originally said he had back spasms, but an examination in Los Angeles revealed the disk injury. Howard will rest the injury for 10 days and will then be re-evaluated. Howard joined his teammates in Cleveland, but remained at the Magic's hotel during the game. He accompanied the team back to Orlando, where the Magic host Philadelphia on Monday. Van Gundy said before Sunday's game that he would consider it a bonus if Howard and Turkoglu return this season. Davis was injured when he went up for a shot and came down awkwardly on his right leg. He crumpled to the floor and was down for a couple of minutes. Davis walked with a noticeable limp to the locker room. He had six points and two rebounds in seven minutes. Earl Clark and Daniel Orton filled in at center when Davis left the game. Clark scored 13 points while Orton added a career-high 11. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Sacramento K. - Portland TB 104-103
Marcus Thornton knocks down the 17-footer off of an inbounds play with 3 seconds remaining in the game and the Sacramento Kings rally back to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 104-103. With this win, the Kings (20-41) break their seven game losing streak. The Kings never led in this game until the 3:25 mark in the fourth quarter when DeMarcus Cousins scored on a jump hook. 17 turnovers are what the Trail Blazers (28-33) coughed up resulting in 19 points and Raymond Felton committed the costly 17th turnover losing the ball off the dribble with 30 seconds left. On the very next possession, the Kings dumped it down to Cousins and he backed Joel Przybilla down for a layup that put the Kings up 102-100 with 10 seconds to go. 'DeMarcus Cousins came out in the second half and played how he can be, a great player in this league,' Kings coach Keith Smart said. 'He just went out and played. It's that simple, that's all he has to do.' Game? Nope. Wesley Matthews receives the ball on the baseline and faces up Francisco Garcia and hits him with a step-back three-pointer to put the Trail Blazers up 103-102 with 5.8 seconds remaining. 'I caught it. I knew I had 10 seconds so that's why I faced up,' Matthews said. 'I was going to space out. I didn't really want to take a shot early as I did, but Garcia jumped on my right hand. My favorite shot is a step-back so he gave it to me.' Game? Nope. Thornton curls off of a screen set by Cousins and finds himself free with Przybilla closing out on him. He shoots and knocks down the 17-footer with 3 seconds left that led to a Felton failed halfcourt shot and that was game. 'It was a good pick he (Cousins) set,' Matthews said. 'That's all I can say.' Thornton, Tyreke Evans, Cousins, and Isaiah Thomas combined for 81 of the Kings' 104 points. Mathews exploded in the third quarter going 6-of-7 with 19 points. He finished with a game-high 31 points and Matthews' seven second half three-pointers were not only a career-high for him, but that was a Kings opponent record and a arena record. Felton provided a solid outing with 19 points and 4 assist. After the game, Felton said his uncle in South Carolina passed away due to a heart attack and sometime soon he'll have to leave to be with his family. J.J. Hickson's return to Sacramento wasn't electric, but he was effective tallying up a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. 'I was just playing my game, nothing too extra,' Hickson said. 'I just wanted to come home with a win, but unfortunately we came up too short.' The Trail Blazers are implementing their youngsters for evaluation purposes and that's why Jamal Crawford didn't play tonight. He'll be back in the rotation for tomorrow's game against the Phoenix Suns and Felton and Nicolas Batum are scheduled to be out for that game. *Courtesy of www.csnnw.com

N.Orleans H. - Memphis G. 88-75
Eric Gordon (6'4''-G-88, college: Indiana) gave Hornets owner-to-be Tom Benson a firsthand look at what he can do, and why keeping him around might help New Orleans become a playoff contender sooner than later. Gordon scored 18 points as Benson watched from courtside seats, and the Hornets won for the fourth time in five games, upsetting the playoff-contending Memphis Grizzlies 88-75 on Sunday night. 'I'm trying to help this team and I'm looking forward to what comes in the future,' said Gordon, who will be a restricted free agent after the season. 'The future's bright here.' Rudy Gay scored 24 points for Memphis, which is trying to stay in range of a top-four playoff seeding in the Western Conference. Marc Gasol added 11 points, but sat out the final 7:02 with what team officials described as a hyperextended left knee. He was scheduled to have further tests, including an MRI. Benson, who owns the NFL's Saints, attended his first game since Friday's announcement that he had agreed to buy the Hornets from the NBA, which spent about 14 months trying to find a buyer who would keep the franchise in Louisiana. Benson spoke to the team in the locker room before tip-off. He later received a standing ovation from the crowd when he was introduced, and the Hornets kept the applause coming as they pulled away in the fourth quarter from a Grizzlies squad that had won five of its previous six games. 'He's looking forward to good things to come,' said Hornets forward Jason Smith, who had 14 points and 10 rebounds. 'It feels great to have an actual owner.' Carl Landry had 16 points and 11 rebounds for New Orleans, which has tied a season-best three-game winning streak. But Landry left the game in the final minutes with a left calf injury. He was not sure how serious the injury was. Gordon has played in only seven games because of a right knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery. The Hornets are now 5-2 in games he has played. Memphis was as close as 56-55 in the third quarter after Gay scored six straight points on a pull-up in the lane, a tough-turnaround jumper and another pull-up at the top of the key. Rather than fold, the Hornets started pulling away as Landry put back his own miss and added a mid-range jumper. Gustavo Ayon scored inside to give New Orleans a 62-56 lead after the third quarter, then Ayon added a short jumper and rookie Jerome Dyson converted a transition layup to complete a 10-2 run that made it 66-56 early in the fourth. 'Our defense - period - was atrocious,' Memphis coach Lionel Hollins said. 'We just didn't muster up the energy that we needed to come out and play against a hard-working team on a back-to-back.' Memphis got as close as 66-62 after Mike Conley's free throws, but could not get any closer as Landry's double-pump driving scoop off the glass started an 11-4 Hornets run. The surge built to a crescendo when Smith found Marco Belinelli with a cross-court pass and Belinelli drained a 3 to make it 78-66 with five minutes to go. The Hornets shot worse than 40 percent most of the game but wound up at 44 percent (32 of 73) by the end. Al-Farouq Aminu reached double-figures in scoring for a second-straight game, highlighting a 12-point night by soaring for a one-handed putback jam. O.J. Mayo scored 11 points for Memphis, but hit only 3 of 12 shots and went 0 of 7 on 3-point attempts. Zach Randolph had 11 rebounds for the Grizzlies. Memphis, which had beaten Utah at home a night earlier, got sloppy in New Orleans, turning the ball over 21 times, which led to 28 Hornets points. 'It was nasty, ugly,' a disgusted Hollins said about his team's performance. 'You can't beat anybody scoring 75 points.' Although they faded late, the Grizzlies built a lead as large as 11 in the second quarter after a 14-2 run highlighted by Gilbert Arenas' two 3-pointers. Mayo capped the spurt with a fastbreak layup that made it 34-23, but Gordon responded with a 21-foot baseline jumper and the Hornets started chipping away at the Grizzlies' lead. New Orleans shot only 31 percent in the first half (12 of 39) but was able to pull as close as 37-33 when Aminu sneaked inside for an offensive rebound and dunk shortly before halftime. Gay said the Hornets deserved credit for putting forth relentless effort despite being out of playoff contention, but then he added, 'It's a little bit on us as well. We were off.' *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Denver N. - Houston R. 101-86
Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) scored 20 of his 22 points in the second half, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 101-86 win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday night in the opener of a crucial home-and-home set between playoff hopefuls. The teams play again in Houston on Monday night. With the win, the Nuggets took sole possession of seventh place in the Western Conference, a-half game behind Dallas, which lost in overtime to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier Sunday. The teams are clinging to the final two playoff spots in the West, trying to fend off fast-charging Phoenix and Utah. Ty Lawson also scored 20 points for Denver, which has won five straight at home. Chase Budinger and Luis Scola each scored 19 to lead the Rockets, who lost their third straight game and saw their four-game road winning streak come to an end. The Rockets, who lost to the Suns and Jazz at home in the last week, led this one 49-43 at the half but were outscored 37-19 in the third quarter, falling behind 80-68 and never recovered. The Nuggets opened the fourth quarter with an amazing play in which Andre Miller threw the ball three-quarters the length of the court for an alley-oop dunk by Corey Brewer. They stretched their lead to 87-68 before Goran Dragic's layup ended an 11-0 spurt by Denver. Nuggets coach George Karl said his team had to treat its final seven games like a playoff series, suggesting they had to win four games at minimum to reach the playoffs for a ninth consecutive season. All but one of their remaining opponents are playoff-caliber teams. The Rockets, who last made the playoffs in 2009, have a rough road to the postseason themselves. After their back-to-backs against Denver, they play at Dallas, and they've lost six straight to the Mavericks. Rockets guard Courtney Lee missed a dunk in the third quarter, leading to a 3-pointer by Afflalo at the other end that capped a 14-4 run to open the second half and put Denver ahead 59-53. Budinger scored 16 first-half points, doubling his scoring average and leading the Rockets to a 49-43 halftime lead. He sank four 3-pointers, including tree in the final 2 1/2 minutes of the first quarter, when he poured in 11 quick points, including a 3 that was on its way when the buzzer sounded and the backboard lit up in red lights. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

LA Lakers - Dallas M. 112-108 OT
Sure, Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) and the Los Angeles Lakers are well aware a regular-season sweep means nothing compared to a playoff sweep. The Lakers are still pleased they're controlling this rivalry with the Dallas Mavericks heading to another postseason in which they just might meet again - and they even did it without Kobe Bryant. Andrew Bynum had 23 points and 16 rebounds, Gasol made back-to-back 3-pointers in overtime, and the Lakers won their fourth straight game without the NBA's leading scorer, 112-108 over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday. Ramon Sessions scored 22 points, and Gasol had 20 points and 10 rebounds as Los Angeles rallied from a fourth-quarter deficit before finishing off a four-game season sweep of the defending champion Mavericks, who swept the two-time champion Lakers out of last season's playoffs. 'This team eliminated us last year, and they're the champs right now,' said Gasol, who buried his sixth and seventh 3-pointers of the season in OT. 'If we face them again, I don't know if this 4-0 in the regular season will be worth a whole lot. We'll have to start over and make sure we play as hard as we've been playing lately.' Coach Mike Brown thought the Lakers put together a remarkable team effort in Bryant's absence, with everybody on the floor in overtime contributing a key play. Matt Barnes' cagey defense capped the OT effort against Jason Terry, who missed what should have been an easy tying layup with 5 seconds left. With the Lakers holding the No. 3 spot in the West playoff picture and the Mavs at No. 6, both teams realize they could meet again in two weeks. The Lakers boosted their lead over the Clippers atop the Pacific Division to 1 games with six to play. The Lakers also have the tiebreaker edge on their next-door rivals. 'We're excited about the playoffs, but we're still going to have that bitter taste in our mouths until then,' Barnes said. Barnes had 11 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and Los Angeles' key defensive play, and Metta World Peace scored 18 points for the Lakers, who are 4-1 while Bryant rests his bruised shin. Bryant is still contributing to the Lakers by shouting out instruction and encouragement from the bench, but his teammates are figuring out how to win when they can't count on Kobe to take the big shot. 'Metta, Andrew, myself, we all feel we have to step up in Kobe's absence,' Gasol said. 'A different guy can do it every game.' Dirk Nowitzki had 24 points on 9-of-28 shooting and 14 rebounds for the Mavericks, whose three-game winning streak ended. Delonte West scored 20 points, and Terry had 21 before overthinking his drive and jamming a layup into the underside of the rim while trying to avoid Barnes' defense. 'I solely take the blame for it,' Terry said. 'I command and ask for the ball in that situation, and to not be able to deliver for the team is an utter disappointment. ... Give (Barnes) credit, it was a savvy defensive play, but if I do it again, I know what kind of play I'm going to make.' Gasol added two free throws with 0.5 seconds left in the Lakers' fifth straight regular-season win over Dallas. Both teams had chances to win near the regulation buzzer, but Sessions missed an awkward shot with 1.5 seconds to play, and Nowitzki clanged a 3-point attempt off the back rim. While the Mavericks claimed Barnes goaltended one of the Lakers' overtime baskets, they also blamed themselves for a middling effort. 'I just have to make some shots,' said Nowitzki, an unimpressive 36 for 95 over his last five games. 'I was more of a volume shooter, and that's not the way I want to play. I want to be an efficient scorer. I've got some work to do.' Gasol gave the lead back to the Lakers on consecutive corner 3's, with Nowitzki's third 3-pointer sandwiched between them. World Peace put the Lakers up 110-106 with a fadeaway jumper with 1:04 to play. Bynum has been fighting a respiratory infection, but coach Mike Brown described him as 'an absolute beast' against Dallas. After a slow start in the first half, Bynum returned to the dominant form he showed while getting 30 rebounds and scoring 30 points in consecutive games, a feat last accomplished by Moses Malone in 1982. During a midgame interview with ABC, Bryant said his shin feels much better, and he intends to return to the Lakers well before the playoffs. Bryant is walking without discomfort, but the 28.1-points-per-game All-Star hasn't played since April 6. Bryant has missed just 100 games in his 16-season NBA career, including the past five. If Bryant plans to return soon, Los Angeles has just five games remaining, including Tuesday's visit from San Antonio, before the postseason. 'That's Coach Bryant now,' Sessions said. 'He's over there drawing stuff up on the board. He's pulling us over to the side and helping us out tremendously.' *Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

Atlanta H. - Toronto R. 86-102
Demar DeRozan (6'7''-F/G-89, college: USC) scored 23 points and the injury-riddled Toronto Raptors beat the Atlanta Hawks 102-86 on Sunday night for their second straight win over a playoff-bound team. Alan Anderson, one of three Toronto players whose 10-day contract is about to expire, added 16 points for the Raptors, who were coming off an 84-79 win against Boston on Friday. Ben Uzoh and rookie Justin Dentmon, also former D-League players on 10-day who have recently joined the Raptors, scored 10 points each. Toronto, which shot 55 percent (41 for 74) from the field, never trailed. The Hawks, who routed the Magic 109-81 Friday for their fourth win in five games, never led against the Raptors. Josh Smith scored 12 of his 26 points in the first quarter, but Atlanta was dealt a big blow in its bid to get the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. Trailing by 14 at halftime, Atlanta opened the third quarter with a 15-6 run to pull to 59-54 on Kirk Hinrich's layup with 6:29 left in the period. However, Toronto scored the next seven points - five by DeRozan - and the Hawks never got closer than seven points again. James Johnson's 20-foot jump shot gave Toronto its biggest lead, 94-70, with 4:22 left in the game. He scored 15 points for the Raptors, who also got 10 points from reserve forward Ed Davis. Ivan Johnson had 14 points and seven rebounds for Atlanta, and Willie Green also scored 14. The Hawks (35-25) are tied with the Magic for the No. 5 spot in the East, and Atlanta owns the tiebreaker. Boston is one-half game up at No. 4, but if the Celtics and Hawks end up tied, Boston will get the nod by virtue of winning its division and winning the season series against Atlanta. The third-place Pacers are three games ahead of the Hawks. Toronto made 20-of-34 shots (59 percent) in the first half on the way to a 53-39. DeRozan had 15 points in the half,and Anderson added 14. Atlanta was at 34 percent (14 for 41), with Smith account for half of the made shots at 7 for 12. All-Star guard Joe Johnson was just 1 for 8 before finishing with seven points on 2-for-12 shooting. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Detroit P. - Chicago B. 94-100 OT
Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) brought the ball up the court, his team down by three. With no timeouts remaining, Chicago wouldn't have a chance to stop and set up a play, but the Bulls' battered point guard didn't need any time to plan his next move. Rose dribbled around a high screen and pulled up just to the right of the top of the arc, where he sank a tying 3-pointer with 6.4 seconds left. ''Freelancing,'' Rose said. ''Pick-and-roll, see what we could get in transition, they backed up and I shot the ball.'' Chicago went on to beat Detroit for the 15th straight time, 100-94 in overtime Sunday night. Rose finished with 24 points despite a bad right ankle, and by the end of the night he was wearing a small bandage at the top of the bridge of his nose following a fourth-quarter foul by Detroit's Charlie Villanueva. Rodney Stuckey scored 32 points for the Pistons, but he missed two crucial free throws late in the fourth quarter. Rose's 3-pointer tied the game at 86 and sent it to the extra session. ''We did everything we needed to win the game other than actually winning the game,'' Pistons coach Lawrence Frank said. ''We made a ton of winning plays, but in this league it is all or nothing, and at the end, the outcome is a loss.'' Joakim Noah had 20 points and 17 rebounds for the Bulls, who are 3 1/2 games ahead of Miami in the race for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Chicago is an NBA-best 46-14. Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City is two games behind. Chicago trailed by three in the final minute of the fourth quarter when Carlos Boozer made a shot from the baseline to pull to 84-83 with 56.4 seconds remaining. Tayshaun Prince missed on a drive at the other end, but Boozer couldn't convert inside. Stuckey made one of two free throws with 16.1 seconds remaining, and Chicago called a timeout, but Luol Deng was called for a five-second violation before inbounding. Stuckey again could make only one of two free throws with 14.2 seconds left, and Rose was able to work his way free for a 3 from near the top of the arc to tie it. Stuckey's shot from near the free throw line missed, and the game went to overtime. ''We know we have to play better, but at this point of the year, every win is important,'' Noah said. ''When Derrick hit that 3, it just gave our team new life, and we just handled our business in overtime.'' Chicago led by one when Kyle Korver made an open 3 from the right wing to make it 95-91. Greg Monroe missed a layup at the other end, and the Bulls held on. Rose has been bothered by an injured right ankle, and he shot 1 of 13 in Thursday's overtime win over Miami. He was aggressive early against the Pistons, driving smoothly to the basket for a layup to open the scoring and then sinking a perimeter jumper moments later. Rose and Noah scored 12 points apiece for Chicago in the first half, but the Pistons received an unexpected lift from Villanueva. After playing only 40 minutes previously during an injury-plagued season, Villanueva came off the bench to score 11 points in the first half, giving Detroit a much-needed boost against Chicago's tough defense. The Bulls still led 49-41 at halftime and took a 60-46 advantage on a 3-pointer by former Detroit star Richard Hamilton. Then it was the Pistons' turn to clamp down. Detroit held Chicago to only four points the rest of the quarter and took a 66-64 lead into the fourth after a basket by Monroe inside. Villanueva opened the fourth with a layup and Damien Wilkins added a dunk to give the Pistons a six-point lead, but Chicago got some momentum back when Villanueva was whistled for a flagrant foul after he appeared to catch Rose in the face when the star point guard tried to finish a fast break. ''I was definitely going for the ball, and I certainly had no intention of hitting him in the nose,'' Villanueva said. ''He said some things, and I said something back, but I got the technical. It was just heat of the moment stuff.'' After that exchange, the Bulls took a 77-76 lead on a free throw by C.J. Watson. ''I was mad. I'm sick and tired of people trying to take cheap shots at me,'' Rose said. ''He didn't even aim for the ball.'' *Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Charlotte B. - Boston C. 82-94
Even without their Big 3, the Boston Celtics proved to be too much for the lowly Charlotte Bobcats. Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) had 20 points and 16 assists to help the Celtics beat the hapless Bobcats 94-82 Sunday night despite playing without three of their star players. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen were given the night off to rest and did not even make the trip to Charlotte, N.C. But the Celtics won anyway as Avery Bradley and Brandon Bass each scored 22 points to help complement a long and productive night from Rondo, who logged 42 minutes playing on the tail end of a back-to-back-to-back. 'Rondo said, 'Hey, I'm ready for 48 (minutes),'' Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. 'And I said, 'There's no doubt about that.' He ended up with 42, which wasn't bad.' Rondo came out briefly at the end of the third quarter after taking a shot to his right biceps but did return. 'I wanted to play 48 to see where I was conditioning-wise,' Rondo said. Rivers said it was a big win considering the Celtics were without three guys who combine for 49.2 points per game. He said that's a great sign as the Celtics begin gearing up for the postseason. 'I keep saying our locker room is as tight as maybe it's ever been,' Rivers said. 'They cheer for each other. They pull for each other. They wanted to win this game. They really did. Because, when you sit guys, people just assume you're going to show up and play. And our guys, you could see in their demeanor in the locker room. I didn't know if we were going to win tonight, but I knew we were going to play hard.' Bradley hit 9 of 14 shots from the field and finished one point shy of tying his career-high. He hit a big 3-point midway through the fourth quarter to put the Celtics up by seven. 'Rondo is our leader and he played the whole first half and kept us going,' said Bradley. 'Having a player like that on your team just kind of keeps you going.' Center Greg Stiemsma also stepped for the Celtics. He started in place of Garnett and tied a career-high with six blocks and altered a few other shots. More importantly, he stayed out of foul trouble. 'That's my role to come out and play physical and play with energy,' Stiemsma said. 'Some nights they call it a little tighter than others and I have to get a feel for that right away. Tonight it set the tone early on how I was going to play.' The loss was the Bobcats' 16th straight, tying a dubious franchise record set earlier this season. If the Bobcats lose their final seven games this season they will finish with the worst single-season winning percentage in NBA history. Gerald Henderson led Charlotte with 22 points. 'You prepare anticipating (the big three) were going to play,' Henderson said. 'When they start their bench guys - even though they're still really good players - it's a little different game. It just didn't turn out well for us.' Despite being down to 11 healthy players, the Celtics shot 62 percent from the field in the first quarter and jumped out to a 34-23 lead. Rondo set the tone with 12 points and seven assists in the opening quarter. The Bobcats were able to pull within four in the fourth quarter, but Bradley hit a big 3-pointer from the corner. Bass then followed that with a jumper from the foul line and Mickael Pietrus knocked down another 3-pointer from the wing to get the lead back to double digits. The Bobcats, who couldn't seem to find a rhythm on offense, never really challenged again. 'One of the problems we have is we don't have post-up people,' Bobcats coach Paul Silas said. 'Gerald Henderson is our only guy and he really shoots a jumper over people and he makes it, but that's about all we have. So you have to play on the outside, run pick and roll a lot. That's the kind of thing we play for.' Silas hoped his team would be able to run on the tired Celtics, but Boston actually had two more points off fast breaks. With the Celtics already having clinched a playoff spot, Rivers decided to leave Garnett and Pierce at the team hotel in the New York area after Saturday night's game against the New Jersey Nets to rest. The Celtics have a game Tuesday night at New York. Ray Allen, who is nursing a sore right ankle, wasn't expected to play and remains in Boston. He's listed as day-to-day. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

New York K. - Miami Heat 85-93
The Miami Heat finally came to Madison Square Garden, a sea of orange surrounding them in what looked like a playoff game. Maybe that's all it took to bring out their best on the road. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) had 29 points and 10 rebounds, Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) added 28 points and nine boards, and the Heat overcame Carmelo Anthony's 42 points to beat the New York Knicks 93-85 on Sunday to clinch the Southeast Division title. Originally scheduled to be here in November, the Heat's lone regular-season game in New York came with the compressed regular season coming to a close - and with a chance they'll be back again soon. 'This is obviously a lot of our favorite places to play, but I think it came at a good time for us,' Wade said. 'We were struggling, as in to play a complete game on the road, and what better place to come in and focus then here, where this team has been playing well and can embarrass you if you don't play your game. So understanding that this could obviously be a first-round matchup as well, I thought today we came in, we didn't play amazing, but played good enough to win the game. We did a lot of good things, so it was a good time for it.' Chris Bosh finished with 16 points and 14 rebounds for the Heat, who pulled away in the fourth quarter of a possible playoff preview. Miami is second in the Eastern Conference and the Knicks came into the game tied for seventh, although they fell back behind Philadelphia after the loss. Anthony had only two baskets in the fourth quarter, perhaps tired from playing 43 minutes and with James switching over to defend him after Anthony had overwhelmed Shane Battier. New York had its nine-game home winning streak snapped. Anthony had the Knicks hoping he could pull out another game against a power team after scoring a season-high 43 last Sunday in overtime against Chicago. His tip-in gave New York a two-point lead with 9 minutes left, but by the time he had his other field goal on a 3-pointer with 1:28 remaining, Miami had opened an 11-point cushion. 'It was all a blur. I don't even know what happened. It just happened so fast. They made some tough shots down the stretch the last couple of minutes of the game, the last six minutes of the game,' Anthony said. 'We couldn't make shots. We had some good looks. Couldn't make them. Didn't make them.' JR Smith scored 16 points for the Knicks, who lost all three games against the Heat. Still without the injured Amare Stoudemire and Jeremy Lin, New York didn't have the firepower to match Miami's Big Three for 48 minutes. Wade moved easily and shot 10 of 18 after missing the last game to rest his ankle. Miami has won two in a row after back-to-back losses last week against Boston and Chicago. *Courtesy of http://abcnews.go.com

Knicks Chandler wants Defensive Player of Year - by Eurobasket News

Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) never toots his own horn about anything, which may be one reason he never has made an All-Star team. But when the subject of the Defensive Player of the Year Award was raised yesterday, Chandler admitted he hopes he will be considered.

Knicks interim coach Mike Woodson said he absolutely believes Chandler is a candidate, and Chandler revealed its been a secret goal.

It would mean an awful lot to me, Chandler said at yesterdays morning shootaround. That was one of my goals coming into the season. I felt I put myself right in the thick of things for consideration. I personally feel like I deserve it. It would be a great honor.

Ballots for the NBA awards were sent out to the media yesterday, and Chandler will draw consideration for one of the three All-NBA teams at center. The four All-Star centers this season were Dwight Howard, Roy Hibbert, Andrew Bynum and Marc Gasol.

Chandler, averaging a double-double at 11.2 points and 10.0 rebounds with a shooting percentage of 67 percent going into last nights game against the Wizards at the Garden, hardly said boo about his All-Star snub when Hibbert got the nod mostly due to the Pacers record at the time.

But that was early in the season, and now the Knicks look to be a playoff team. They played as well on defense as any club in the league during their first 16 games under Woodson.

Woodson who said Chandler was absolutely, without a doubt a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year acknowledged the Knicks would not be close to the kind of defensive club they are now without the 7-foot-1 center as the glue.

Hes done everything to put us in the position where we are today, Woodson said regarding Chandlers candidacy for DPOY. You dont find that many centers committed like he is, who dont have any hidden agendas. Its not about Tyson Chandler. Its always about the team. That speaks for volumes. Theres a reason he was part of a team in Dallas that won a title. Hes a true pro. He should be considered for it.

The Woodson-Chandler pairing is a good one. In the past 16 games, the Knicks were the third-best defensive team in the league, allowing 90.3 points per game and 42.4 percent shooting.

Our defense has put us there, Woodson said of his 12-4 record. Tyson has been a focal point of our defense. Hes done everything from a defensive standpoint. During this stretch, we have to be in the top two [or] three defensive teams in league. That says a lot.

Last season, the Knicks allowed 105.7 points per game with a giant hole in the middle of the defense. Their defensive average for the season was at 94.8 points going into last night, ranking 12th in the league.

Thats a difference of 10.9 points with Chandler as the anchor for voters to consider. The Knicks opponents field-goal percentage in 2010-11 B.C. (Before Chandler) was 47.2 percent. This season it was at 44.1.

The Knicks went 0-2 in the games Chandler missed this season due to a wrist injury, and their opponents the Spurs and Bucks averaged 118.5 points in those games.

Chandlers presence is why the Knicks would have a punchers chance against the Heat if the teams meet in the playoffs. The Heat make their lone visit to the Garden this season tomorrow with Knicks castoff Ronny Turiaf newly installed as starting center.

Chandler dominated Howard in their past two meetings and had his way with Hibbert in all three encounters this season.

A Defensive Player of the Year Award and All-NBA selection would be a good makeup call for Chandler going his whole career without an All-Star berth.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Why The Heat Will or Will Not Win It All - by Miguel Rivera

Today's featured team: Miami Heat

3 Reasons the Heat Will Win the Championship:

LeBron James- James is without question, the most skilled and athletically-gifted basketball player on the planet. When he wants to take over a game, he can, and no one in the league can stop him. If LeBron truly did take last year's Finals defeat as hard as he says he did, then expect him to play this postseason with an intensity that we have yet to see from the Chosen One.

Dwyane Wade- Wade, referred to by many as the 'Batman' of this team, is playing some of the most efficient basketball of his career. It seems like he can walk his way through the first 3 quarters and then completely take over in the 4th. He's a Finals MVP, an NBA Champion, and an the heart and soul of this Heat franchise. Wade hates losing almost as much as Kobe does, so he won't be satisfied unless he's hoisting up the Larry O'Brien trophy at the end of June.

Healthy role players- Most of last season was played without co-captain Udonis Haslem, and offseason acquisition Mike Miller. Yes, they returned for the Finals, but it was evident that they weren't at their best. This year, they'll be counted on to play down the stretch with the Big 3 to bring another title to South Beach.

3 Reasons the Heat Will Not Win the Championship:

Uncertain rotation- This one falls on Coach Eric Spoelstra. What other title-contenders tinker with their starting lineup this late into the season, when injuries are not the reason? No one. Coach Spo has yet to settle on a rotation, and it could cost him when the playoffs roll around, if players are unsure of their roles. Are Norris Cole and James Jones going to see the floor? Is UD or Ronny Turiaf starting at Center? Is Mike Miller or Shane Battier going to be in down the stretch? These are questions that should already have concrete answers by now.

Disinterest- The Heat have been mediocre at best the past few weeks, playing very uninspired basketball, especially on the road. Many attribute it to being 'bored' and just waiting for the playoffs to get here. Well, the Heat need to hope that there really is a on/off switch that they can turn on to prepare themselves for the postseason run.

LeBron's 'Clutch' Gene- Its clear to everyone that if LeBron James had shown up in just a couple of 4th quarters in last year's Finals, that the Heat would now be looking for back-to-back titles instead of their first as a unit. The question is, has LeBron really turned the page from last season's disappearing act? I'm not sure yet. He's disappeared in crucial games already this season, most recently at Chicago last Thursday night. If LeBron can't be a dominant player when it matters most, then this could be the end of the Big 3 as we know it.

Still to come: San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder and Chicago Bulls

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NCAA1

Haircut will make UK recruit Nerlens Noel easy to spot at Jordan Brand Classic - by Eurobasket News

Center Nerlens Noel (6'11''-C-94) will be easy to spot Saturday night at the Jordan Brand Classic All-America high school boys basketball game.

Noel will be the player on the East team with the huge wingspan, long arms and high-top fade straight out of the early 1990s.

Noel is listed at 6-foot-10, but give him 7 feet with his hair.

The look is a nod to actor Will Smith, who sported the fade on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the popular 90s sitcom thats still in syndication. Noel said he used to watch reruns of the show every night before turning in.

Just watching Will Smith, he was a role model to me, Noel said. I just wanted to be like him growing up.

His hair might look like the Fresh Princes. But Noels angular frame and long reach have drawn comparisons to Kentuckys Anthony Davis, the 6-10 center who led the Wildcats to the national championship as a freshman this season.

Davis averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds, and took over games on the defensive end with five blocks per game. Noel, who is from Massachusetts and attended high school in New Hampshire, is expected to take Davis spot for the Wildcats after picking Kentucky over Syracuse and Georgetown this week. Davis is expected to turn pro this month.

Hes a great player. Ive got respect for him, Noel said of Davis. But at the end of the day, hes his own player and Im my own player. Were different people. I do understand we play similar, though.

North Carolina-bound Brice Johnson, who also will play for the East squad Saturday night, believes Noel is actually a better defender than Davis was in high school. Johnson played with Noel at the Nike Hoops Summit last month in Portland, Ore., where he learned how Noel got his nickname, The Eraser.

I think I can get a shot off on him one time if I get my feet right. Hes a great shot-blocker. Hes very long. Hes just an amazing athlete, really, said Johnson, a 6-9 forward from Orangeburg, S.C.

Hes way better than Anthony Davis. Hes way better than he was in high school, Johnson added. He just needs to work on his offensive game a little bit more, because he really doesnt score like that. But hes working on it. Hes getting a little better.

Kentucky coach John Calipari was criticized during the Wildcats title run for turning his program into a six-month, NBA feeder system. But the way Calipari has embraced the one-and-done rule while churning out lottery picks makes Kentucky an attractive stopover for many top prospects, for however long they stay.

Given that his offensive game still needs work, Noels stint in Lexington could last longer than Davis.

I definitely wont go in there thinking about one-and-done, Noel said. The only thing I need to do is go in there and think about getting better and doing what I have to do for my team to win games and get to a national championship.

Noel, who has more than 19,000 followers on Twitter, announced his college choice on ESPNU Wednesday night by turning his head to reveal a UK shaved into the back of his head. It was the handiwork of James McDonald from VIP Barber Shop in south Charlotte.

Might Noel, whose brother Rodman is a linebacker at N.C. State, opt for a different, old-school hairstyle when he gets to Kentucky?
The fades going to stay, he said.

Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Standings Men

NBL Standings

1. Bay Hawks		7-1
2. Auckland P.		7-2
3. Wellington S.		5-3
4. Taranaki MA		4-6
5. Hub Jets		3-3
6. Nelson G.		3-5
7. OceanaGold N.		3-5
8. Southland S.		3-6
9. Harbour H.		2-6

Regular Season: Round 7

Apr. 9: Bay Hawks - OceanaGold N. 99-76
Apr. 11: Auckland P. - Hub Jets 96-83
Apr. 13: OceanaGold N. - Bay Hawks 72-82
Apr. 14: Hub Jets - Nelson G. 71-77
Apr. 13: Wellington S. - Nelson G. 102-95
Apr. 14: Southland S. - Bay Hawks 102-87
Apr. 13: Taranaki MA - Harbour H. 100-77

Regular Season: Round 8

Apr. 18: Auckland P. - Taranaki MA
Apr. 20: Bay Hawks - Harbour H.
Apr. 20: Hub Jets - OceanaGold N.
Apr. 21: Nelson G. - OceanaGold N.
Apr. 21: Southland S. - Wellington S.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Phill JONES
  Nelson G.
  (196-G-74)
  Avg: 25.4

1. Jones, Nelson G.	25.4
2. Horvath, Hub Jets	24.8
3. Gurley, Wellington	24.0
4. Wright, OceanaGo.	23.9
5. Pace, Hub Jets	23.0
6. Braswell, Southlan.	22.8
7. Tisby, OceanaGo.	21.8
8. Leasure, Taranaki.	21.4
9. Hudson, Taranaki.	21.3
10. Winitana, Bay H.	20.4

Rebounds Per Game

Nick HORVATH
  Hub Jets
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 16

1. Horvath, Hub Jets	16.0
2. Tisby, OceanaGo.	12.3
3. Atkinson, Harbo.	10.0
4. Johnson, Bay Hawks	9.6
5. Muhammad, Aucklan.	9.3
6. Abney, Southland	9.2
7. Frank, Wellington	9.1
8. Wright, OceanaGo.	9.0
9. Young, Bay Hawks	8.0
10. Pace, Hub Jets	7.8

Assists Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Wellington S.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 9.9

1. Crowe, Wellington	9.9
2. Tait, Auckland P.	7.3
3. Dickel, OceanaGo.	6.4
4. Jones, Nelson G.	5.8
5. Bailey, Harbour H.	4.6
6. Bloxham, Nelson G.	4.2
7. Wright, OceanaGo.	4.0
8. Leasure, Taranaki.	3.9
9. Hudson, Taranaki.	3.8
10. Kenny, Bay Hawks	3.8

Steals Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Wellington S.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Crowe, Wellington	2.9
2. Braswell, Southlan.	2.6
3. Leasure, Taranaki.	2.2
4. Tait, Auckland P.	2.1
5. Muhammad, Aucklan.	2.1
6. Wright, OceanaGo.	2.1
7. Pace, Hub Jets	2.0
8. Bailey, Harbour H.	2.0
9. Gurley, Wellington	2.0
10. Dickel, OceanaGo.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Michael HARRISON
  Nelson G.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Harrison, Nelson G.	2.8
2. Tisby, OceanaGo.	2.0
3. Trousdell, Wellin.	1.3
4. Wright, OceanaGo.	1.3
5. Abney, Southland	1.1
6. Atkinson, Harbo.	1.0
7. Frank, Wellington	1.0
8. Cartwright, Auckla.	0.9
9. Dempster, Nelson G.	0.6
10. Smith, Harbour H.	0.6

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

35-year old guard Jason Crowe (193-G-76) put on an amazing game in the last round for Wellington S. and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
He got a double-double of 22 points and 16 assists, while his team beat Nelson G. (#6, 3-5) 102-95. Wellington S. maintains the 3rd position in New Zealand league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Wellington S. will need more victories to improve their 5-3 record. In the team's last game Crowe had a remarkable four three-pointers out of 7 attempts. He just recently signed at Wellington S., being already a very valuable addition to the team. Cal State - Northridge graduate has very impressive stats this year. Crowe is league's best passer with 9.9apg. Crowe is in league's top in and averages solid 2.9spg and 51.6% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81) of Manawatu J.. He is naturalized American forward in his first season at Hub Jets. In the last game Horvath recorded impressive double-double of 29 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Hub Jets lost that game 71-77 to slightly lower-ranked Nelson G. (#6, 3-5). Hub Jets managed to keep the same 5th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 3-3 record is not bad and everything may still change. Horvath is a newcomer at Hub Jets and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.8ppg (#2). He also registered 16.0 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Jack Leasure (191-G-86) of Taranaki MA (#4). Leasure got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He went also for seven assists. He was a key player of Taranaki MA, leading his team to a 100-77 easy win against the lower-ranked Harbour H. (#9, 2-6). The chances of Taranaki MA ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Leasure could help Taranaki MA to bring them higher in the standings. Leasure has a great season in New Zealand. After only 9 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.4ppg (8th best) and assists with 3.9apg (8th best). He also has 2.2spg and FGP: 55.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Phill Jones (196-G-74) of Nelson G. - 30 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Antoine Tisby (203-F/C-83) of OceanaGold N. - 21 points, 16 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Everard Bartlett (198-G-86) of Bay Hawks - 33 points and 5 rebounds
7. Antoine Tisby (203-F/C-83) of OceanaGold N. - 28 points and 8 rebounds
8. Casey Frank (203-F-77) of Wellington S. - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Kevin Braswell (188-G-79) of Southland S. - 36 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Paora Winitana (196-G-76) of Bay Hawks - 28 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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POLAND

Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game

Lukasz PACOCHA
  AZS S.
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Pacocha, AZS S.	18.5
2. Woloszyn, MKS D.	17.8
3. Niesobski, Sudety	16.7
4. Kostrzewski, Start	16.3
5. Jarecki, P.Cuk.	15.3
6. Mazur, Polonia	14.8
7. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.	14.0
8. Zytko, P..	13.6
9. Pluta, MOSiR K.	13.6
10. Kukielka, Sportino	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Krzysztof MIELCZAREK
  AZS S.
  (198-G/F-81)
  Avg: 11.8

1. Mielczarek, AZS S.	11.8
2. Luszczewski, Start	9.8
3. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.	9.3
4. Mikolajko, Polonia	7.9
5. Grudzinski, Spojnia	7.2
6. Wilusz, Sudety	7.1
7. Radke, Rosa Radom	7.0
8. Malewski, Znicz B.	7.0
9. Klima, Sokol Lancut	6.8
10. Perka, AZS Kutno	6.8

Assists Per Game

Michal MUSIJOWSKI
  Polonia
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Musijowski, Polonia	5.5
2. Grochowski, MKS D.	5.2
3. Basinski, SKK S.	4.9
4. Zytko, P..	4.6
5. Michalski, Start L.	4.1
6. Kardas, Rosa Radom	4.0
7. Brek, AZS Kutno	3.9
8. Ochonko, Spojnia	3.9
9. Wojcicki, SKK S.	3.6
10. Szumelda-K., Znic.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Lukasz ZYTKO
  P..
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Zytko, P..	3.5
2. Mielczarek, AZS S.	3.1
3. Szumelda-K., Znicz	2.9
4. Niesobski, Sudety	2.9
5. Sulinski, Znicz B.	2.8
6. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.	2.8
7. Szpyrka, Start G.	2.6
8. Klima, Sokol Lancut	2.5
9. Pisarczyk, Sokol L.	2.5
10. Basinski, SKK S.	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Artur DONIGIEWICZ
  Rosa R.
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Donigiewicz, Rosa	2.2
2. Niesobski, Sudety	1.8
3. Zytko, P..	1.8
4. Oczkowicz, MOSiR K.	1.7
5. Klima, Sokol Lancut	1.7
6. Marciniak, AZS K.	1.6
7. Zmarlak, MKS D.	1.6
8. Grochowski, MKS D.	1.6
9. Wojdyla, Start G.	1.6
10. Aleksandrowi., St.	1.6

2Liga Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jakub KAROLAK
  Novum Lublin
  (196-G/F-93)
  Avg: 22

1. Karolak, Novum Lub.	22.0
2. Kowalewski, AZS U.	20.9
3. Peciak, MKS L.	20.0
4. Lapinski, Zyrardow.	19.8
5. Kuczynski, Tur B.	19.7
6. Sobilo, Pulaski Wa.	19.7
7. Swiech, MKS S.	19.4
8. Ejsmont, GKK G.	18.6
9. Zurawski, Open F.	18.4
10. Majewski, PWiK P.	18.2

Rebounds Per Game

Mateusz SZWED
  Zyrardow.
  (197-C-91)
  Avg: 12.8

1. Szwed, Zyrardow.	12.8
2. Zabielski, Tur B.	11.9
3. Cygan, Unia Tarnow	10.8
4. Niedzwiedzki, WKK	10.4
5. Kwandrans, MKS L.	10.0
6. Mis, Handlopex AZS	10.0
7. Fras, Trefl I.	9.8
8. Kuczynski, Tur B.	9.3
9. Zurawski, Open F.	9.3
10. Kowalewski, AZS U.	8.9

Assists Per Game

Marcin STOKLOSA
  Open F.
  (188-G-77)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Stoklosa, Open F.	11.2
2. Hybiak, AZS P.	6.6
3. Wluczynski, Ksieza.	6.6
4. Paszkiewicz, PWiK	6.4
5. Jarosz, MKS S.	5.8
6. Gospodarek, Novum	5.4
7. Grzelinski, WKK O.	5.4
8. Rapucha, Tur B.	5.4
9. Kindlik, MKS L.	5.3
10. Lipinski, Nysa K.	5.1

Steals Per Game

Marcin STOKLOSA
  Open F.
  (188-G-77)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Stoklosa, Open F.	5.1
2. Rapucha, Tur B.	4.6
3. Bojko, Wilki Morsk.	4.3
4. Jarosz, MKS S.	4.2
5. Misztela, UMKS P.	4.0
6. Chojecki, Zyrardow.	3.8
7. Adamczyk, Pulaski	3.8
8. Zych, Unia Tarnow	3.8
9. Gospodarek, Novum	3.6
10. Wrobel, GTK G.	3.6

Blocks Per Game

Tomasz ZYCH
  Unia Tarnow
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 3

1. Zych, Unia Tarnow	3.0
2. Lewandowski, Astor.	2.8
3. Szewczyk, Unia T.	2.3
4. Kunc, Staco M.	2.2
5. Labedz, Rosa I.	2.2
6. Fediuk, UKS S.	2.2
7. Misztela, UMKS P.	2.2
8. Paszkiewicz, PWiK	2.2
9. Szwed, Zyrardow.	2.1
10. Bojko, Wilki Mors.	2.1

Archibeque's double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

27-year old center Kirk Archibeque (205-C-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) put on an amazing game in the last round for Zastal ZG and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 27 points and 11 rebounds, while his team was edged out by Energa Czarni (#5, 3-7) 83-81. Zastal ZG maintains the 3rd position in Polish league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Zastal ZG will need to avoid more loses keep or improve their 6-4 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Archibeque as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Fort Lewis University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Archibeque is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 7.5rpg) and averages solid 59.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) of Siarka Jezioro. He is a center in his first season at Siarka Jezioro. In the last game Karnowski recorded impressive 35 points and 6 rebounds. Of course Siarka Jezioro cruised to a 92-81 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked AZS PW (#0, 11-26). This victory allowed Siarka Jezioro to move up to -2th position in Group B. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 17-21 record. Karnowski is a newcomer at Siarka Jezioro and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Siarka Jezioro's star - forward Nicchaeus Doaks (202-F-87, agency: Hart Sports Mngm). Doaks showcased his all-around game by recording 16 points, fourteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of Siarka Jezioro, helping his team with a 92-81 win against #0 ranked AZS PW in a game of the week. The chances of Siarka Jezioro ranking at the top of Group B, however are very questionable as they have already lost 21 games, recording just seventeen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Doaks could help Siarka Jezioro to bring them higher in the standings. Doaks has a great season in Poland. After 38 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.3rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Darrell Harris (208-F/C-84) of Kotwica - 18 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Walter Hodge (183-PG-86) of Zastal ZG - 27 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Donatas Motiejunas (213-F/C-90) of Asseco Prokom - 23 points and 13 rebounds
7. Paul Graham (196-G-85) of Slask Wroclaw - 25 points and 2 rebounds
8. Jakub Dluski (200-F-87) of LKS Lodz - 20 points and 9 rebounds
9. Igor Milicic (194-G-76) of AZS Koszalin - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 10 assists
10. John Allen (194-G/F-82) of Anwil - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists

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

1Liga Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Rosa Radom - Sokol Lancut 75-60

Rosa Radom celebrated the second straight win over Sokol Lancut. It looked good early as Sokol Lancut took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Rosa Radom had a 19-15 second period charge getting the lead and Sokol Lancut was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-75. Rosa Radom forced 22 Sokol Lancut turnovers. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Guard Artur Donigiewicz (185-84) notched 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and forward Tomasz Pisarczyk (205-85) supported him with 7 points and 15 rebounds. Four Rosa Radom players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds by guard Marcel Wilczek (200-86) did not help to save the game for Sokol Lancut. Guard Jaromir Szurlej (180-86) added 11 points for the guests. Sokol Lancut's coach Dariusz Kaszowski rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Sokol Lancut: M.Wilczek 18+12reb, J.Szurlej 11+2reb+2ast, P.Halas 8+3reb+2ast, I.Chromicz 7+5reb, P.Bogdanowicz 6+7reb+1ast, T.Fortuna 5+3ast
Rosa Radom: P.Kardas 15+1reb+5ast, J.Zalewski 15+2reb, A.Donigiewicz 12+8reb+4ast, M.Kosinski 10+1reb+2ast, M.Nikiel 10+1reb, T.Pisarczyk 7+15reb+1ast

Znicz Basket - Spojnia 59-57

Znicz Basket eked out a narrow home win over Spojnia to take 2-0 lead in the series. Spojnia was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 13-10 charge of MKS Znicz Basket, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 20 Spojnia turnovers. Forward Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-84) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Marek Szumelda-Krzycki (193-91) chipped in 12 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals during the contest. Guard Tomasz Stepien (193-86) responded with 13 points and 9 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and the former international center Wiktor Grudzinski (208-78) scored 7 points and 8 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Spojnia: T.Stepien 13+9reb+2ast, A.Parzych 11+3reb+3ast, H.Pabian 8+3reb, W.Grudzinski 7+8reb+2ast, P.Wojdyr 6+3reb, T.Ochonko 6+1reb+2ast
Znicz Basket: P.Szymanski 18+7reb+1ast, A.Czujkowski 13+4reb+1ast, M.Szumelda-Krzycki 12+7reb+6ast, A.Sulinski 5+3reb, M.Matuszewski 5+4reb, A.Misiewicz 4+4reb+3ast

Start Gdynia - AZS Kutno 95-73

Start Gdynia had little problems against AZS Kutno to step closer to the semis. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 52-28 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Start Gdynia dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to AZS Kutno's 30 and made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Start Gdynia forced 21 AZS Kutno turnovers and outrebounded them 33-17 including a 23-10 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was power forward Tomasz Andrzejewski (204-79) who scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Piotr Smigielski (190-89) chipped in 14 points and 6 assists. Start Gdynia's coach Pawel Turkiewicz felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Forward Aleks Perka (201-87, college: Rice, agency: Stanley International) produced 16 points and guard Dawid Brek (185-89) added 7 points and 7 assists respectively for the guests. Five Start Gdynia and four AZS Kutno players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
AZS Kutno: A.Perka 16+3reb+2ast, K.Jakobczyk 13+1reb+1ast, G.Malecki 11+3reb+1ast, D.Kalinowski 10+2reb, A.Linowski 10+2reb+2ast, D.Brek 7+4reb+7ast
Start Gdynia: M.Kostrzewski 21+3reb, T.Andrzejewski 19+9reb+2ast, T.Wojdyla 15+7reb, P.Smigielski 14+4reb+6ast, G.Mordzak 12+1reb+3ast, A.Lisewski 8+5reb

SKK Siedlce - MKS DG 71-86

MKS Dabrowa Gornicza earned the second win in a row on the road and are now one win away from the semis. The game without a history. MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza forced 25 SKK Siedlce turnovers. The best player for the winners was forward Pawel Zmarlak (195-F-82) who scored 24 points. Forward Michal Woloszyn (202-84) chipped in 20 points. Swingman Kamil Sulima (192-80) produced 25 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Pawel Kowalczuk (207-80, college: St.Francis, NY) added 15 points respectively for the hosts. Four SKK Siedlce players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
SKK Siedlce: K.Sulima 25+5reb+3ast, P.Kowalczuk 15+4reb+1ast, A.Czerwonka 11+4reb+2ast, L.Ratajczak 10+7reb, M.Nedzi 4+4reb, J.Czyz 2+2reb
MKS DG: P.Zmarlak 24+4reb, M.Woloszyn 20+4reb+2ast, L.Szczypka 19+1reb+2ast, G.Grochowski 9+7reb+8ast, R.Kulikowski 6+4reb+1ast, L.Grzegorzewski 4+1reb+2ast

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

PORTUGAL

Standings - Proliga

Proliga Standings

1. Alges		20-2
2. Illiabum		15-7
3. Angra		14-8
4. Oliveirense		13-9
5. Electrico FC		12-10
6. Sangalhos		11-11
7. Fisica		11-11
8. Galitos-Tley		11-11
9. Maia Basket		11-11
10. Guifoes		6-16
11. Povoa		5-17
12. Gaeirense		3-19

Regular Season: Round 22

Apr. 14: Alges - Povoa 98-83
Apr. 14: Illiabum - Maia Basket 89-83
Apr. 14: Oliveirense - Electrico FC 86-64
Apr. 14: Guifoes - Angra 66-81
Apr. 14: Gaeirense - Galitos-Tley 57-68
Apr. 14: Sangalhos - Fisica 55-56

Quarter-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 21: Alges - Sangalhos
Apr. 21: Illiabum - Galitos-Tley
Apr. 21: Oliveirense - Electrico FC
Apr. 21: Angra - Fisica

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PUERTO RICO

Atleticos dominate Indios at their court: - by Luis Modestti

Atleticos de San German went to Mayaguez and dominated Indios 107-75 in front of a sold-out crowd.

Their commitment to defense from the start was very important in this performance as Indios shot 19% from three and 33% from the field.

Mike Harris (198-F-83, college: Rice) led Atleticos with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Manuel De Jesus also scored 15, Filiberto Rivera and Carlos Strong netted 14 each.

San German had a 25-16 first quarter lead and at halftime they were up 48-30. De Jesus, Harris and Richard Chaney led them at half with 10 points each.

In the second half it was more of the same and Mayaguez never recovered as they were not consistent enough from the field.

Andres Ortiz led Mayaguez with 14 points and Ruben Cotto added 13.

Mayaguez is still in first place with a 16-5 record while San German is 12-10.

Capitanes lost to Uniceub, get eliminated: - by Luis Modestti

Capitanes de Arecibo lost to Uniceub/BRB and finished the semifinal round with a 1-2 record in the FIBA-Americas League.

Arecibo needed to win on the third day in order to qualify to their second straight Final Four but fell short due to a slow start in the second half.

Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 23 points and was instrumental in securing the win for the Brazilians. Alex Garcia added 16 and Nezinho had 13 with 8 assists.

Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) led Capitanes with 21 points and David Cortez followed with 12.

Uniceub won the first half 33-32 and won the third quarter 22-13 to stay on top and qualify into the final stage.

Capitanes are now expected to return to Puerto Rico and have a game on Tuesday against Mets de Guaynabo.

Vaqueros won third straight: - by Luis Modestti

Vaqueros de Bayamon won their third straight game by beating Caciques de Humacao 74-71 thanks to a great defensive performance.

Thanks to this win Bayamon is alone in second place with a 12-9 record.

Miguel Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso) led the way with 16 points and Christian Dalmau returned from his four game suspension with 15 points for the winners.

Baskets by Berdiel and Dalmau with a minute left gave Bayamon the lead. Dalmau secured the win with 6.8 seconds left from the free-throw line.

Gilbert Brown had 15 and Kleon Penn 13 for Humacao who are now 5-16.

Bayamon release Julius Hodge - by Eurobasket News

Bayamon released Julius Hodge (201-G-83, agency: Scenic Sports Group, LLC., college: N.Carolina St.). The guard joined the team at the start of April. He appeared in four games tallying 9.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game in BSN. Julius Hodge started the season in Belarus. He played for Minsk-2006. His stats read 15.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game in EuroChallenge. In VTB League the guard posted 13.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists per appearance. Later Juluis Hodge moved to Vietnam to sign with the Saigon Heat. His stats read 22.1 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game in ASEAN League. Later Julius Hodge moved Puerto Rico to join Humacao. The guard posted 19.0 points per game in BSN. Soon Julius Hodge moved to Venezuela to ink a deal with Marinos de Anzoategui. The Antiguan player posted 3.3 points and 1.3 assists per game in LPB and left after three games.

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

QATAR

Rayyan and Arabi post victories in Emir Cup - by Eurobasket News

Rayyan surged ahead in the semifinal series against Gharrafah. They claimed a narrow 75:73 victory in Game 3 to take 2-1 lead. DeVon Hardin (211-C-86) scored 18 points and collected 14 rebounds to pace the winners. Rayyan stormed into the game. They dominated every facet of the encounter to post a 28:13 lead. Rayyan maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They secured a 44:30 halftime lead. Gharrafah however stopped the rot in the third term. They narrowed the gap at just two points 57:59 at the final break. Gharrafah pulled ahead midway through the final frame but Rayyan managed to eke out a narrow victory at the end. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, college: Iowa) delivered 15 points, while Tanguy Ngombo (197-F-84) added 14 points for the winners. Suleiman Braimoh (203-F-89, college: Rice) answered with 27 points for Gharrafah. Boney Watson (183-G, college: Sam Houston St.) had 25 points in the loss.
Arabi avoided elimination posting the first win in the series versus Sadd. Shelton Colwell (202-C/F-80, college: Missouri St.) fired 21 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to pace Arabi to an 86:67 victory. The teams were tied at 24 after ten minutes but Arabi surged ahead in the second term. They established a 45:38 halftime lead. Arabi accounted for a 67:59 advantage with one quarter remaining. They never loosened the grasp and sealed the victory at the end. William Byrd (201-G/F-85, college: Ark.-Pine Bluff) notched 19 points and 8 rebounds, while Abdulai Jalloh (188-G-86, college: JMU) contributed 17 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists in the win. Jason Fontenet (178-PG-82, college: Oregon St.) replied with 19 points for Sadd. Michael Benjamin had 13 points and 14 boards in the loss.

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RUSSIA

SERBIA

20 years after... - by Ivan Milenkovic

On 16th of April 1992, Partizan became the first and only European champion from Serbia! It was incredible season... Because of war in Yugoslavia, Partizan had to find new home and played all but one game away from Belgrade... They had young players, inexperienced coach, war in their country, no real home advantage and no one thought it was possible for Partizan to do what they did!
Partizan easily qualified for group phase despite playing both games in Szolnok. Hungarian team Mol-Szolnok couldn't stop 'black and whites' who even had to play without Sasa Djordjevic - 181-137 (92-65 and 89-72).
Partizan decided to play their home games in Fuenlabrada, town near Madrid. Serbian powerhouse were in Group B and finished regular season in 4th position, with 9 wins and 5 defeats. They had one disappointing game in Belgium (lost 86-72), but overall surprised with their great results and performances. Despite not playing in Belgrade, Partizan quickly 'bought' Spanish fans. People from Fuenlabrada loved young Serbian team and even cheered for them against Spanish team Joventut from Badalona.
In quarterfinals, Serbians played against Group A winners Knorr from Bologna, strong favourites. Partizan were finally allowed to play in Belgrade and they easily won first game against Italians in Pionir - 78-65. But, they had to win away, too, to secure Final Four. After unlucky loss in second game (61-60 for hosts), 'black and whites' recovered and won third decisive game 65-69. They did impossible - qualified for final tournament in Istanbul.
All 4 teams in Final Four were from Group B. In semifinals, Partizan played Philips Milan, team who they already surprised twice in group phase. Third win in third game between two teams couldn't be surprise, Partizan advanced to final with comfortable 82-75 win. Finally, big final was decided in last seconds. Joventut led 70-68, but Sasa Djordjevic's coast-to-coast and legendary three-pointer decided - European trophy went to Partizan.
Average age of Partizan players was 21.7. It was first season of Zeljko Obradovic as coach. Two best players, Predrag Danilovic and Sasa Djordjevic, didn't talk to each other during the season. But, nothing could stop Partizan to lift trophy in Istanbul's Abdi Ipekci!

Partizan's legendary team: Aleksandar Sasa Djordjevic, Predrag Danilovic, Nikola Loncar, Mladjan Silobad, Zoran Stevanovic, Zeljko Rebraca, Slavisa Koprivica, Vladimir Dragutinovic, Ivo Nakic, Dragisa Saric, coach: Zeljko Obradovic

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SIERRA LEONE

YMCA Eyes Two Straight Win - by Eurobasket News

YMCA will today look up to a second win in the ongoing Sierra Leone Amateur Basketball Association league as they take on Duck Cannol at the National Stadium basketball court in Freetown.
The YMCA team put up an outstanding performance in the opening match against holders, Cannon Royals to win by 48-45 points.
YMCA's current top scorer, James Sennesie, who secured 17 out of the 48 points in their win against Cannon Royals, believes they can repeat similar success in today's match.
'Our win against Cannon Royals was a big boost for us and I hope we can continue with this trend,' Sennsie said.
On Saturday, YSC secured a narrow win over Ashonix with 41-24 points in the early kick-off while Freetown Lakers were unable to deny Kennedy Net as the latter won by 42-39 points.
On Saturday, Lumley Dream secured their first win by defeating Duck Cannol 32-24, whilst Cannon Royals bounced back from the YMCA slump to defeat Lumley Dream 50-14.
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.com/

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SWEDEN

Trio to stay at Jamtland - by Andreas Eriksson

Jamtland Basket today announced the re-signing of Jimmy Widell (186-G-87), Andreas Karlsson (198-F-89) and Fredrik Rasmusson (200-F-91) for another year with the club. Widell is a local product, while Karlsson and Rasmusson spent their first year in Ostersund playing for Jamtland this past season. Previously Jamtland have also re-signed American PF/C Boakai Lalugba (200-F/C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Bucknell) and Croatian Forward Drazen Klaric (205-F-80, agency: Court Side) to also stay with the club for 2012-2013 season - and Dennis Aulander picked up his option to stay another year as head coach for the team as well.

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TAIWAN

Trim number one in Taiwan for round 14 - by Eurobasket News

Trinidad and Tobago power forward Kibwe Trim (208-F/C-84, agency: Top Notch Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Taiwan Beer, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 23 points and 14 rebounds, while his team Taiwan Beer maintains the 2nd position in Taiwanese SBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Taiwan Beer will need to avoid more loses keep or improve their 17-13 record. Trim just recently signed at Taiwan Beer, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former Sacred Heart University star has very solid stats this year. Trim is in league's top in points (3rd best: 17.3ppg), rebounds (6th best: 11.3rpg) and averages impressive 62.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Elbert Fuqua (211-C-83, agency: Top Notch Sports) of KKL. Fuqua had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as KKL was edged by slightly lower-ranked Taiwan Mobile (#6, 13-17) 66-63. KKL is still second from the bottom in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 14-16 record. Fuqua is one of the most experienced players at KKL and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.4ppg (#7). He also registered 12.7 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another KKL's star - swingman Chi-Chao Hung (188-G/F-82). Hung scored 25 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was another key player of KKL, helping his team with a 84-65 easy win against the higher-ranked Taiwan Beer (#2, 17-13). The chances of KKL ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 16 games, recording just fourteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Hung could help KKL to bring them higher in the standings. Hung has a very solid season. In 30 games in Taiwan he scored 7.3ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Po-Chen Chou (197-SG-90) of Yulon Luxgen - 21 points and 11 rebounds
5. Ryan Wright (206-C/F-87) of Taiwan Mobile - 17 points and 13 rebounds
6. Elbert Fuqua (211-C-83) of KKL - 10 points and 11 rebounds
7. Wen-Cheng Tsai (190-G/F-85) of Pure Youth - 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Kevin Johnson (201-F-84) of Yulon Luxgen - 4 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Chun-Wei Lee (199-C-88) of KKL - 20 points and 5 rebounds
10. Hsin-An Chen (196-F/G-80) of Pure Youth - 8 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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TUNISIA

ES Sahel won the Final opener - by Eurobasket News

ES Sahel won the Final opener in the country. The team overcame Stade Nabeulien 70:67 in Game 1. Both teams showed a great game and proved their ambitions for the top place. Game 2 is scheduled for April 18th.

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TURKEY

Standings - TBL

TBL Standings

1. Galatasaray		23-5
2. Banvit BK		23-5
3. Anadolu Efes		22-6
4. Besiktas		21-7
5. Fener.Ulker		20-8
6. Karsiyaka		18-10
7. Aliaga		14-14
8. Tofas		13-15
9. Turk Telekom		12-16
10. Mersin		11-17
11. Hacettepe Univ.		11-17
12. Erdemir		11-17
13. Antalya		8-20
14. Olin Edirne		7-21
15. Trabzonspor		6-22
16. Bandirma Kir.		4-24

Regular Season: Round 28

Apr. 16: Turk Telekom - Anadolu Efes 95-87 OT
Apr. 14: Karsiyaka - Antalya 95-85
Apr. 15: Besiktas - Tofas 81-78 OT
Apr. 14: Fener.Ulker - Hacettepe Univ. 81-68
Apr. 14: Olin Edirne - Aliaga 72-77
Apr. 15: Bandirma Kir. - Trabzonspor 72-67
Apr. 14: Erdemir - Banvit BK 60-85
Apr. 14: Mersin - Galatasaray 106-99 2OT

Regular Season: Round 29

Apr. 22: Banvit BK - Aliaga
Apr. 21: Anadolu Efes - Fener.Ulker
Apr. 21: Karsiyaka - Olin Edirne
Apr. 21: Hacettepe Univ. - Mersin
Apr. 21: Antalya - Bandirma Kir.
Apr. 21: Galatasaray - Erdemir
Apr. 21: Tofas - Turk Telekom
Apr. 21: Trabzonspor - Besiktas

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Jonathan GIBSON
  Trabzonspor
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Gibson, Trabzonspor	19.9
2. Chatman, Karsiyaka	18.9
3. Sneed, Mersin	18.3
4. Reynolds, Antalya	18.2
5. Brown, Trabzonspor	18.0
6. Scales, Mersin	17.6
7. Grundy, Mersin	17.2
8. Fisher, Antalya	17.2
9. Toolson, Aliaga	17.2
10. Washington, Turk	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 12

1. Brown, Trabzonspor	12.0
2. Stimac, Olin Edirne	9.8
3. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.	8.5
4. Sanders, Hacett.	8.4
5. Buckman, Tofas	7.8
6. Wesson, Erdemir	7.6
7. McGhee, Bandirma.	7.6
8. Sonkol, Aliaga	7.6
9. Miller, Bandirma K.	6.9
10. Grier, Mersin	6.8

Assists Per Game

Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Chatman, Karsiyaka	6.5
2. Ermis, Banvit BK	6.3
3. Tunceri, Anadolu	5.7
4. Ratkovica, Aliaga	5.3
5. Senturk, Erdemir	5.0
6. Gordon, Galatasaray	4.8
7. Arroyo, Besiktas	4.4
8. Washington, T