EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/25/2012 1:00:00 AM

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  ALBANIA   



Kamza Basket and SK Tirana step away from Final - by Eurobasket News

Kamza Basket and SK Tirana registered victories in the semifinal openers. They defeated Vllaznia and Teuta Durres in the first games of the series.
Kamza Basket celebrated a 70:64 win. They strongly entered the game taking a 21:11 lead after ten minutes. Kamza Basket controlled the tempo afterwards cruising to a well-deserved win at the end. Herion Fasslija and Algert Gjonaj (200-F-87) scored 10 points each to lead the winners. Vllaznia answered with game-high 20 points from Ervin Berdica (182-G-85).
SK Tirana coasted past Teuta 92:43 in the opener. SK Tirana built a comfortable 45:20 halftime lead. They stretched the margin to insurmountable 45 points at the final break 71:26 and never looked back en route to the victory. Endrit Hysenagolli (203-C-88) came up with 20 points for SK Tirana. Bruno Daliu (202-C-85, college: Tusculum) added 15 points in the win. Elton Saliaga (185-G-78) answered with 15 points for Teuta.


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  AUSTRALIA   


CJ Bruton leads NZ Breakers to NBL title - by Eurobasket News

Breakers - Wildcats 79-73
CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) now has five NBL titles, but winning one against his first team, one his father helped build, means a lot to him. The New Zealand Breakers guard was named the most valuable player of the NBL finals series after scoring two vital three-pointers in the final two minutes of the deciding match against the Perth Wildcats. They gave the Breakers enough of a cushion to help them win an exciting final match 79-73, securing back-to-back NBL titles for the Auckland franchise. Bruton has won two titles with the Sydney Kings, one with the Brisbane Bullets and now two with the Breakers. But he has fond memories of the Wildcats, a team his father Calvin helped build and one which he began his professional basketball career with. 'I look at Perth in '87 with my father playing, and to watch that team grow and their fan base grow has been special,' he said. 'To come play at Vector Arena in front of 9000 people in a grand final against the team my father coached to their first championship ... I can't think of anything more special than that.' After the Breakers won the first final in overtime and the Wildcats took the second by one point, it would have been tough for the deciding game to match those but the two teams again produced a compelling and tight contest. The Breakers led by one point after the first quarter but went into halftime two points down after a stellar second quarter by Perth forward Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85, college: Loyola Mary). Defence dominated in the third quarter, the Breakers doing just enough to take a four-point lead going into the final quarter. Perth overcame a six-point gap to level the scores at 62 apiece before six points by Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.) gave the home team a four-point lead. Bruton, ever the big-match player, then scored two vital three-pointers, and a vital block by Thomas Abercrombie (198-F/G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St.) on a Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, college: Arizona St.) lay-up ensured the Breakers would take the title. Doubts were expressed about Bruton's future after an injury to the 36-year-old's knee but he said it was 'a blessing in disguise'. 'I think the coach and the team gave me time to go away from the team and work on my body and they won five in a row,' he said. 'For me it's about pushing. I was still hungry, I still am, and I will continue to be that way while I continue to play.' Wildcats coach Rob Beveridge said Bruton 'was the difference'. 'The guy's going to be a hall of famer. The coaching staff has done a great job getting him through the season and he's a big game player,' Beveridge said. Beveridge said he was proud of his team's performance but was frustrated they let the Breakers score too many points from the three-point arc. 'We started the game giving up four threes... and down at the end CJ managed to put another dagger in. That's frustrating as a coach, going away from the game plan.' *Courtesy of www.smh.com.au

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Kevin LISCH
  Wildcats
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Lisch, Wildcats17.3 
 2. Wilson, Taipans17.3 
 3. Deleon, Blaze16.6 
 4. Wilkinson, Breakers16.6 
 5. Johnson, 36ers16.5 
 6. Khazzouh, Kings16.4 
 7. Tragardh, Tigers16.3 
 8. Bose, Kings15.5 
 9. Abercrombie, Break.15.2 
 10. Crawford, Croco.14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Khazzouh, Kings10.8 
 2. Holmes, Crocodiles9.0 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers8.6 
 4. Grant, Kings8.1 
 5. Johnson, 36ers7.7 
 6. Crosswhite, Taipa.7.7 
 7. Bose, Kings6.7 
 8. Worthington, Blaze6.3 
 9. Vukona, Breakers6.1 
 10. Hudson, Blaze6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Jackson, Breakers6.5 
 2. Gibson, Blaze4.7 
 3. Bruce, Kings4.4 
 4. Gill, Crocodiles3.8 
 5. Martin, Hawks3.6 
 6. Martin, Wildcats3.5 
 7. Dillon, Tigers3.4 
 8. Ubaka, Tigers3.3 
 9. Deleon, Blaze3.2 
 10. Lisch, Wildcats3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Jackson, Breakers2.3 
 2. Martin, Wildcats2.0 
 3. Deleon, Blaze1.6 
 4. Gill, Crocodiles1.4 
 5. Robbins, Wildcats1.4 
 6. Mims, Crocodiles1.3 
 7. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
 8. Gibson, Blaze1.1 
 9. Lisch, Wildcats1.1 
 10. Vukona, Breakers1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Khazzouh, Kings2.1 
 2. Simpsons, 36ers1.5 
 3. Grant, Kings1.4 
 4. Nevill, Wildcats1.1 
 5. Johnson, 36ers1.0 
 6. Abercrombie, Break.0.9 
 7. Crosswhite, Taipa.0.9 
 8. Martin, Wildcats0.8 
 9. Pledger, Breakers0.8 
 10. Forman, Hawks0.8 



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  AUSTRIA   


Austrian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

#s#
Moritz Lanegger
Lanegger
Christoph Nagler
Nagler
Lukas Sallomon
Sallomon
Matthias Mayer
Mayer
Richard Poiger
Poiger
#e#5
Moritz Lanegger 190-G-90 Klosterneub. Austria
Christoph Nagler 196-G-84 Klosterneub. Austria
Lukas Sallomon 191-G/F-87 Klosterneub. Austria
Matthias Mayer 204-C/F-81 Gmunden Austria
Richard Poiger 202-F-87 Gmunden Austria
Jozo Rados 203-C-93 Gmunden Austria
Erik Fruehwirth 204-C/F-91 Oberwart Austria
David Jandl 180-G-84 Oberwart Austria
Hannes Ochsenhofer 186-G-85 Oberwart Austria
Aleksandar Djuric 210-F/C-82 Gussing Austria
Sebastian Koch 200-F-88 Gussing Austria
Thomas Klepeisz 188-G-91 Gussing Austria
Davor Lamesic 203-F-83 Wels Austria
Romed Vieider 196-F-91 Wels Austria
Heinz Kuegerl 211-C-86 Kapfenberg Austria
Thomas Schreiner 195-G-87 Kapfenberg Austria
Sebastian Schaal 189-PG-90 UBSC Graz Austria
Tomislav Gaspar 198-F-83 BC Vienna Austria
Benedikt Danek 176-PG-86 Arkadia Austria
Jason Detrick 198-G-80 Lleida Spain
Rasid Mahalbasic 210-F/C-90 Zlatorog Slovenia
Anton Maresch 192-G-91 Andorra Spain
Benjamin Ortner 206-F/C-83 Benetton TV Italy

Neno Asceric Head Coach Oberwart Austria



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  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Eurobasket.com All-Balkan League Awards 2011-2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Balkan League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Joseph Jones
Jones
Branko Mirkovic
Mirkovic
Aaron Harper
Harper
Ivan Lilov
Lilov
Romeo Travis
Travis
#e#5

Final Four MVP: Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86) of Galil Gilboa
Player of the Year: Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski Sofia
Guard of the Year: Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski Sofia
Forward of the Year: Romeo Travis (200-PF-84) of Galil Gilboa
Center of the Year: Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86) of Galil Gilboa
Defensive Player of the Year: Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88) of Hapoel T-A
European Player of the Year: Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82) of Rilski Sportist
Import Player of the Year: Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski Sofia
Coach of the Year: Konstantin Papazov of Levski Sofia

1st Team
G: Branko Mirkovic (190-82) of Rilski Sportist
G/F: Aaron Harper (199-81) of Levski Sofia
F/G: Ivan Lilov (196-88) of Feni Indistrija
PF: Romeo Travis (200-84) of Galil Gilboa
C/F: Joseph Jones (204-86) of Galil Gilboa

2nd Team
G: Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84) of Torus Skopje
SG: Ivan Jelenic (190-85) of Mornar Bar
F: Dominique Archie (200-87) of Timisoara
PF: Curtis Kelly (205-88) of Hapoel T-A
C/F: Vasil Evtimov (207-77) of Levski Sofia

Honorable Mention
Marcel Jones (203-F-85) of Zrinjski HT
Milos Djurisic (194-G-88) of Ulcinj
Aco Mandic (204-C/F-84) of Napredak
Matan Naor (195-SF-80) of Hapoel T-A
Marcus Hall (185-G-85) of Levski Sofia
Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88) of Torus Skopje
Nenad Misanovic (217-C-84) of OKK Beograd
Zlatko Jovanovic (181-PG-84) of Timisoara
Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) of Rilski Sportist
Akeem Scott (186-PG-83) of Mornar Bar
Dagan Yavzuri (193-G-85) of Galil Gilboa

All-Europeans Team
G: Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84) of Torus Skopje
G: Branko Mirkovic (190-82) of Rilski Sportist
SG: Ivan Jelenic (190-85) of Mornar Bar
C/F: Vasil Evtimov (207-77) of Levski Sofia
F/C: Filip Vukosavljevic (205-83) of Rilski Sportist

All-Imports Team
G: Marcus Hall (185-85) of Levski Sofia
G/F: Aaron Harper (199-81) of Levski Sofia
PF: Curtis Kelly (205-88) of Hapoel T-A
PF: Romeo Travis (200-84) of Galil Gilboa
C/F: Joseph Jones (204-86) of Galil Gilboa


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  BOSNIA   


League Six: One round left before the Playoffs - by Eurobasket News

Round Nine of the Bosnian top division for men (League Six) was played on Saturday.
Igokea escaped with 76-78 road win in Capljina for 8-1 record in the league. Milos Komatina (205-FC-84) was the leading player in victory with 23 points and Milan Dozet (204-SF-79) had 15. The hosts (3-6) got 21 points and 9 rebounds from Marko Jagodic Kuridza (204-C-87). Last round will give us an answer who will end as No.1 (Igokea or Siroki) and who will reach the Playoff Semifinals.
Mladost celebrated 85-91 win against Bosna in Sarajevo. Petar Ivanic (193-G-85) had 19 points and 5 assists for the guests. Bosna got 16 points and 7 rebs from Sead Hadzifejzovic (202-FC-89).
Siroki WWin jumped to 9-0 after huge 93-67 home victory against Varda. Boris Barac (204-F-92) had double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts.
Last round of the League Six will be played today. Four best teams will book a spot for the Semifinals.

Standings
1. Siroki WWin 9-0
2. Igokea 8-1
3. Mladost 3-6
4. Capljina 3-6
5. Varda HE 3-6
6. Bosna 1-8


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  BRAZIL   


Uberlandia reach NBB quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News

Tijuca - Uberlandia 74:81

Uberlandia celebrated the third win in the eighth-final series against Tijuca. Robby Collum (185-G-81, college: W.Michigan) nailed 25 points to pace Uberlandia to a decisive road victory. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes of action. Uberlandia put their noses in front in the second term. They established a 40:37 halftime lead. However Tijuca denied the deficit in the third term. The hosts pulled in front to take a 56:55 advantage with one period remaining. Uberlandia exploded with 26 points in the fourth quarter and escaped with a narrow win at the end. Robert Day (197-F-82, college: W.Oregon) notched 17 points, while Valtinho Silva (187-G-77) contributed 15 points and 7 assists for the winners. Rodrigo Bahia Bispo (206-C/F-79) provided 22 points and 6 boards for Tijuca. Marcellus Camara (190-G-88) had 14 points in the losing effort.

Tijuca: Rodrigo Bahia Bispo 22, Marcellus Camara 14
Uberlandia: Robby Collum 25, Robert Day 17, Valtinho Silva 15


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  BULGARIA   


Ilian Evtimov selected the top Bulgarian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Ilian Evtimov
Ilian Evtimov
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Ilian Evtimov (201-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.). Evtimov was the major contributor in Chalon/Saor's victory against the 14th-ranked STB Le Havre (8-18) 89-78 in the French ProA last Saturday. He scored 18 points. ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (22-5) is placed second in the ProA. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This season Evtimov averages: 10.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 45.2%, 3FGP: 42.0% and FT: 93.5%(29-31). He has a dual citizenship: Bulgarian and French. Despite Evtimov played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team.

Kee Kee Clark
Kee Kee Clark
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Kee Kee Clark (180-84, college: St.Peter's). Clark led Umana Venezia to a victory against the ninth-ranked Lottomatica Roma (13-16) 83-69 in the Italian SerieA on Sunday night. He scored 20 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 6 assists in 31 minutes. Umana Venezia (17-11) is placed fifth in the SerieA. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Clark has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.9apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 49.3%, 3FGP: 41.1% and FT: 79.6% in the 27 games he played so far. Clark is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Clark is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team. Strangely he has never played in Bulgaria.

Filip Videnov
Filip Videnov
   #3. The Bulgarian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international swingman Filip Videnov (196-80, also represented by Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky). Videnov contributed to an Olin Edirne's surprising victory against the sixth-ranked Karsiyaka (18-11) crushing them 90-70 in the Turkish TBL in Sunday night's game. He scored 21 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Olin Edirne Basketball (8-21) is placed 14th in the TBL. They ended the series of six consecutive loses. Videnov's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Videnov has relatively good stats this season: 13.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.0apg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 36.3% and FT: 81.4%. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Videnov is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team.

Kaloyan Ivanov
Kaloyan Ivanov
   #4. Forward Kaloyan Ivanov (205-86) contributed to a Meridiano Alicante's victory against the closely-ranked Assignia Manresa (14-16) 76-70 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He had a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 10 rebounds in 34 minutes. Lucentum Alicante (16-13) is placed eighth in the ACB. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. It's Ivanov's first season with the team. Ivanov belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #2 with 7.6rpg. This year he also averages: 12.6ppg and 1.4apg in the 28 games. Despite Ivanov played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Jared Homan
Jared Homan
   #5. Former international center Jared Homan (206-83, college: Iowa St.) helped Bayern Muenchen win their game against the 13th-ranked BBC Bayreuth (12-21) 68-59 in the German BBL on Saturday night. Homan recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks. FC Bayern Muenchen (21-12) is placed fifth in the BBL. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Homan belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #4) and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). He has very reliable stats this season: 13.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.8apg and 1.3bpg. Homan is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Homan is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster. Apparently he has never played in Bulgaria.

Hristo Nikolov
Hristo Nikolov
   #6. Forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) helped Szolnok edge the closely-ranked Kecskemeti (14-12) 66-64 in the Hungarian A Division in Friday night's game. Nikolov scored 15 points and blocked 2 blocks in 30 minutes. Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (21-5) is placed third in the A Division. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Nikolov has relatively solid stats: 13.7ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg and 1.5spg in the 28 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Nikolov is also a former international player as he played for the Bulgarian senior team two years ago.

Roderick Blakney
Roderick Blakney
   #7. An experienced former international guard Roderick Blakney (184-76, college: S.Carolina St.) helped his Russian team Lokomotiv win their game against the second-ranked Spartak St.Petersburg (11-5) 69-60 in the VTB United League last Friday. He scored 8 points. Lokomotiv Kuban (9-7) is placed fourth in group B. Blakney's overall stats this season are: 7.9ppg, 2.4rpg and 2.8apg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Blakney played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster. Interesting that Blakney has never played in Bulgaria.

Ivan Lilov
Ivan Lilov
   #8. Swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88), who plays in FYR Macedonia could not help Feni Indistrija (5-5) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the fourth-placed Feni Indistrija lost 76-86 on the road to the leading Levski Sofia in the group B of Balkan League. Lilov was the top scorer with 20 points. He also added 6 rebounds and 3 assists in 38 minutes. It was Feni Indistrija's third consecutive loss in a row. Lilov is currently first on the league's list of top scorers with 18.9ppg. This year his other stats are: 3.6rpg, 2.9apg and 1.3spg in the nine games. Despite Lilov played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Earl Calloway
Earl Calloway
   #9. Former international guard Earl Calloway (191-83, college: Indiana) helped Cajasol win their game against the league outsider Blancos de Rueda (7-23) 77-72 in the Spanish ACB in Saturday night's game. Calloway scored 10 points and added 5 passes. Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla (17-13) is placed sixth in the ACB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. Calloway's overall stats this season are: 7.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.0apg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Calloway played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster. However Calloway has never played in Bulgaria.

Chavdar Kostov
Chavdar Kostov
   #10. Guard Chavdar Kostov (196-88, another player represented by Interperformances) was not able to help Kavala (13-11) in their game against Kolossos (16-8) in the Greek A1. He recorded 6 points in 21 minutes. Kavala was crushed 82-61 in Rodou by the higher-ranked (#3) Kolossos. This year Kostov's overall stats are: 6.0ppg and 2.8rpg in the 25 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Kostov is also an international player who is currently on the senior Bulgarian National Team roster.

   #11. International power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) was not able to secure a victory for one of league's weakest teams Fabi Shoes Montegranaro in their game against Vanoli-Braga in the Italian SerieA. He scored 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. His team was defeated 73-66. Ivanov is currently third on the league's list of best rebounders. This season he has very good stats: 12.4ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg and 1.4spg. Despite Ivanov played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #12. International guard Earl Rowland (188-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) couldn't help Unicaja Malaga in their game against Regal FC Barcelona in the Spanish ACB. Rowland cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points in 23 minutes. His team was crushed by 32 points 89-57. This year Rowland's total stats are: 5.5ppg, 2.0rpg and 2.5apg in the 28 games. He is a naturalized American. Rowland is also in the roster of the Bulgarian national team.

   #13. U16 international swingman Alexandros Vezenkov (204-95) couldn't help Aris in their game against Panathinaikos in the Greek A1. Vezenkov cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. His team was crushed by 23 points 88-65. This season Vezenkov averages just 0.6ppg. He is also Bulgarian U16 national team player.

   #14. International guard Aleksandar Gruev (187-83, another player represented by Global Sports Plaza) couldn't help Dinamo Tbilisi in their game against TSU in the Georgian Superleague. Gruev recorded 7 points and added 3 passes in only 12 minutes. It was his first game for Dinamo Tbilisi this season. His team was edged in an overtime 98-95. Despite he played previously for the Cypriot national team, Gruev is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #15. International point guard Willie Deane (188-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) couldn't help Asefa Estudiantes in their game against Real Madrid in the Spanish ACB. He cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. Deane scored only 2 points. His team was defeated 85-80. He has averaged so far 5.6ppg, 1.1rpg and 1.9apg. Deane is a naturalized American. He is also in the roster of the Bulgarian national team. Deane used to play for PBC Lukoil Akademik Sophia in Bulgarian league.

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

   #1. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) led Olympiacos to a victory over the eighth-ranked PAOK (10-14) crushing them 81-53 in the Greek A1 in Thursday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Antic recorded 18 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in a mere 16 minutes. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (23-1) is placed first in the A1. It was his team's 20th consecutive victory in a row. This year Antic averages: 7.3ppg, 4.8rpg and 1.1apg in the 24 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: FYR Macedonian and Bulgarian. Despite Antic's Bulgarian passport, he currently plays for the FYR Macedonian national team and is not eligible to play for the Bulgarian team.


*****************************************************
  CAMEROON   


Luc Mbah a Moute's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Cameroonians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Luc Mbah a Moute
Luc Mbah a Moute
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Luc Mbah a Moute (200-86, college: UCLA), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Milwaukee Bucks (31-33) in their last game. Despite Mbah a Moute's very good performance the Milwaukee Bucks lost 109-118 on the road to the Indiana Pacers. He had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 11 rebounds in 33 minutes on the court. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Mbah a Moute's fourth season with the team. Mbah a Moute has relatively good stats this year: 7.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 2FGP: 51.4%, 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 64.1% in the 43 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa
Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced international shooting guard Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa (188-77). Ekanga-Ehawa led Aix-Maurienne to an easy victory against the closely-ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (17-14) 95-80 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday. He recorded 11 points. Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (20-11) is placed fourth in the ProB. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This season Ekanga-Ehawa has relatively solid stats: 12.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 41.0%, 3FGP: 45.9%(79-172) and FT: 86.3%. He has a dual citizenship: Cameroonian and French. Despite Ekanga-Ehawa played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Gaston Moliva
Gaston Moliva
   #3. The Cameroonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Gaston Moliva (202-85, college: Richmond). Moliva was not able to help Chiba Jets (18-32) in their game against Okinawa GK (37-13) in the Japanese BJ League. He scored only 4 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and made 6 blocks in 33 minutes. The eighth-placed Chiba Jets lost 75-79 in Okinawa to the leading Okinawa GK in the Eastern group. It was Chiba Jets' third 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 Moliva's first season with the team. This year Moliva averages: 5.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 42.3% and FT: 42.2% in the 50 games. He is also a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Yann Zonnet
Yann Zonnet
   #4. Power forward Yann Zonnet (197-89) contributed to an easy victory against one of league's weakest teams JA Vichy (7-24) crushing them 91-71 in the French ProB (second division) in Saturday night's game. Zonnet recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Saint Vallier Basket Drome (15-16) is placed ninth in the ProB. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. Zonnet's overall stats this season are: 3.0ppg and 3.1rpg. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Zonnet is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Brice Vounang
Brice Vounang
   #5. International power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider CFBB (2-29) 88-71 in the French NM1 (third division) last Friday. He scored 8 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 20 minutes. Etendard de Brest (17-15) is placed ninth in the NM1. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. Vounang has reliable stats this year: 10.8ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.3apg in the 27 games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Vounang is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Gedeon Pitard
Gedeon Pitard
   #6. Guard Gedeon Pitard (188-89) was not able to secure a victory for STB Le Havre (8-18) in their game against Chalon/Saor (22-5) in the French ProA. He did not beat the league record on Saturday evening. Pitard scored only 2 points, had 4 rebounds and made 2 blocks. STB Le Havre was defeated 89-78 on the opponent's court by the second-ranked Chalon/Saor. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. Pitard has been at the team for five years. His overall stats this season are: 1.1ppg and 1.3rpg. Pitard is an international player who is currently on the senior Cameroonian National Team roster.

Talba Toudjani
Talba Toudjani
   #7. Former international forward Talba Toudjani (201-80) couldn't help Energy Invest (0-0) in their game against MIA (12-8) in the Georgian Superleague. He recorded 7 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and made 5 blocks in 40 minutes. Energy Invest was crushed 109-66 in Tbilisi by the lower-ranked (#4) MIA. The Regular Season already ended. Toudjani's stats this year are: 11.2ppg, 11.3rpg, 3.1apg and 1.3spg in the nine games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Toudjani is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Yves Mekongo
Yves Mekongo
   #8. Forward Yves Mekongo (201-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: La Salle), who plays in the Luxembourg Diekirch League couldn't help Amicale (11-13) in their last game on Friday. Despite Mekongo's very good performance Amicale was defeated 85-79 in Bertrange by the second-ranked Sparta in the 1-6 places group. He was the second best scorer with 19 points. Mekongo also added 9 rebounds. His team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. Mekongo has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 19.1ppg, 11.7rpg and 1.6apg. Worth to mention he played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite Mekongo played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Paul Biligha
Paul Biligha
   #9. International center Paul Biligha (200-90, agency: Players Group) couldn't help Casalpusterlengo (19-15) in their game against Trento (23-11) in the Italian Nazionale A (third division). Biligha recorded only 4 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. Casalpusterlengo (#4) was crushed 87-58 on the opponent's court by the second-ranked Trento in the North-West Division. This year Biligha's overall stats are: 5.7ppg and 4.8rpg in the 35 games. He is also in the roster of the Cameroonian national team.

Michel Ipouck
Michel Ipouck
   #10. Forward Michel Ipouck (199-86) managed to help Union Basket Chartres Metropole to win against the closely-ranked Stade Clermont (8-24) crushing them 95-61 in the French NM1 (third division) in Saturday night's game. Ipouck scored only 2 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Union Basket Chartres Metropole (13-18) is placed 14th in the NM1. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. Ipouck's total stats this season are: 6.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.6apg and 1.2spg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Cameroonian National Team roster.


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  CANADA   


Steve Nash selected the top Canadian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Steve Nash
Steve Nash
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced former international point guard Steve Nash (190-74, college: Santa Clara), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Phoenix Suns (33-31) to beat the Denver Nuggets (36-28). Nash recorded 8 points, 6 rebounds and 13 assists in 30 minutes on the court. The Phoenix Suns lost 107-118 at home to the Nuggets. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Nash's eighth season with the team. He has individually a very good year with high stats. Nash averages: 12.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 10.8apg, 2FGP: 58.1%(232-399), 3FGP: 39.9% and FT: 89.0% in the 60 games he played so far. He played for the Canadian senior national team nine years ago.

Tristan Thompson
Tristan Thompson
   #2. Second place goes to former U19 international forward Tristan Thompson (203-91, college: Texas), who plays in the NBA. Thompson was not able to help the Cleveland Cavaliers (21-43) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his good performance the Cleveland Cavaliers were crushed 116-77 on the road by the Detroit Pistons. Thompson recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 13 rebounds. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Thompson has relatively good stats this season: 8.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 2FGP: 44.1% and FT: 54.9%. He played for the Canadian U19 national team in 2009.

Joel Anthony
Joel Anthony
   #3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV). Anthony led Miami Heat to a victory against the Houston Rockets (33-32) 97-88 in the NBA on Sunday night. He scored 11 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 26 minutes. The Miami Heat has a solid 46-18 record this season. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Anthony has been at the team for four years. This season Anthony's overall stats are: 3.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 56.8%(83-146) and FT: 69.0% in the 62 games. He is also a member of the Canadian senior national team.

Samuel Dalembert
Samuel Dalembert
   #4. Center Samuel Dalembert (211-81, college: Seton Hall) contributed to a 3-point Houston Rockets' victory against the Golden State Warriors (23-41) 99-96 in the NBA in Saturday night's game. Dalembert recorded 9 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. The Houston Rockets have 33-32 record this season. His team will play only one more game in the NBA Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. This season Dalembert has relatively solid stats: 7.5ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.7bpg. He has a dual citizenship: Haitian and Canadian. Despite Dalembert played previously for the Haitian national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Matt Bonner
Matt Bonner
   #5. Former international forward Matt Bonner (206-80, college: Florida) managed to help San Antonio Spurs in a victory against the Los Angeles Lakers (41-24) crushing them 112-91 in the NBA last Tuesday. Bonner scored 5 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 24 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 48-16 record this season. It was his team's eighth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. Bonner plays sixth season for the team. This year his total stats are: 6.8ppg and 3.3rpg in the 62 games. Bonner is a naturalized American. He used to play for the Canadian national team four years ago.

Kyle Landry
Kyle Landry
   #6. Power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona) contributed to a Triumph Lyubertsy's victory against one of league's weakest teams BC Nizhny Novgorod (3-15) 83-70 in the Russian PBL on Thursday night. Landry scored 9 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) is placed third in the PBL. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. The Regular Season already ended. Landry belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #4. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.4ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.6apg. Despite Landry played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the Canadian senior team three years ago.

Scott Morrison
Scott Morrison
   #7. Former international center Scott Morrison (212-86, college: Portland St.) was not able to secure a victory for Energa Czarni (3-7) in their game against Zastal ZG (6-4) in the Polish PLK, despite his very good performance in Sunday night's game. Morrison was the second best scorer with 15 points. He also added 9 rebounds in 23 minutes. But the fifth-placed Energa Czarni lost in an overtime 92-97 in Zielona Gora to the higher-ranked (#3) Zastal ZG in the Group A. It was Energa Czarni's seventh consecutive loss in a row. Morrison is ranked fifth on the list of the best blockers in the league with 1.2bpg. He also averaged so far 10.7ppg and 5.8rpg in the 34 games. Despite Morrison played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Levon Kendall
Levon Kendall
   #8. Forward Levon Kendall (209-84, college: Pittsburgh) led Blusens Monbus to a victory over the closely-ranked Gran Canaria 2014 (11-19) crushing them 65-45 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. Kendall was MVP of the game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 10 rebounds. Blusens Monbus Obradoiro CAB (11-19) is placed 13th in the ACB. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. Kendall has averaged so far 9.2ppg and 6.0rpg. Despite he played previously for the Irish national team, Kendall is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Henry Bekkering
Henry Bekkering
   #9. Former U21 international forward Henry Bekkering (198-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: E.Washington) couldn't help Nijmegen (0-2) in their game against Zwolle (1-0) in the Dutch Eredivisie, despite his very good performance on Thursday night. He was the second best scorer with 20 points. Bekkering also added 4 rebounds in 30 minutes. But Nijmegen (#3) lost 80-86 on their home court in Nijmegen to the second-ranked Zwolle in the Group B. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. Bekkering is currently sixth on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place). This year he has very good stats: 10.4ppg, 5.0rpg and 1.1apg in the 28 games. Despite Bekkering played previously for the Irish national team, he is currently in the Canadian U21 national team roster.

Garry Gallimore
Garry Gallimore
   #10. Guard Garry Gallimore (192-84) was the major contributor in a CSM Bucuresti's victory against the second-ranked Timisoara (21-7) 92-80 in the Romanian Division A in Wednesday night's game. Gallimore scored 21 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. CS Municipal Bucuresti (19-9) is placed seventh in the Division A. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Gallimore is currently ninth on the list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Gallimore averages: 17.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.1apg and 1.2spg. Despite he played previously for the Jamaican national team, Gallimore is also a former university international player as five years ago he still played for the Canadian national team.

   #11. Former international forward Jermaine Bucknor (199-83, college: Richmond) couldn't help s Oliver Baskets in their game against EnBW Ludwigsburg in the German BBL, despite his very good performance last Saturday. He was the top scorer with 14 points. Bucknor also added 4 rebounds in 28 minutes. But his team lost in an overtime 80-91. He has averaged so far 6.7ppg and 2.9rpg in the 10 games. Despite Bucknor played previously for the Jamaican national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #12. Former international center Jasonn Hannibal (208, college: Portland) was the main contributor in Polzela's victory against the fifth-ranked LTHcast Mercator 80-75 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Wednesday night. Hannibal was the best player in that game. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Hannibal has averaged so far 8.1ppg and 5.3rpg. Despite he played previously for the Jamaican national team, Hannibal is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #13. International forward Aaron Doornekamp (198-85, agency: Interperformances) couldn't help Otto Caserta in their game against CS Bologna in the Italian SerieA, despite his very good performance in Sunday night's game. He was the top scorer with 13 points. Doornekamp also added 2 shots in 27 minutes. But his team was badly defeated by 18 points 84-66. He has averaged so far 7.1ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.4spg in the 27 games. Despite Doornekamp played previously for the Dutch national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #14. Former international forward Kai Williams (198-89, college: S.Dakota St.) helped Cheshire Jets win their game against the league leader Newcastle Eagles 96-81 in the British BBL last Friday. Williams was the top player that evening. He recorded 29 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 4 assists and made 2 blocks. Williams has reliable stats this season: 14.8ppg, 6.0rpg and 1.8apg. Despite he played previously for the British national team, Williams is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #15. Former international forward Corey Muirhead (198-83, college: W.Carolina) couldn't help BK Pardubice in their game against BC Kolin in the Czech Republic NBL. He scored 8 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 23 minutes. His team lost 76-83. Muirhead's stats this year are: 10.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg in the 35 games. Despite he played previously for the Jamaican national team, Muirhead is currently in the Canadian national team roster.


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  CENTRAL AFRICA   


Romain Sato selected the top Central African playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Romain Sato
Romain Sato
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Romain Sato (194-81, college: Xavier). He was the major contributor in Panathinaikos' victory against the seventh-ranked Aris (11-13) crushing them 88-65 in the Greek A1 in Saturday night's game. Sato scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. Panathinaikos Athens (22-2) is placed second in the A1. It was his team's eighth consecutive victory in a row. This year Sato averages: 6.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 54.1%, 3FGP: 32.7% and FT: 56.0% in the 25 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

Max Kouguere
Max Kouguere
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Max Kouguere (198-87). Kouguere led Le Mans to an easy victory against the league outsider Hyeres-Toulon (2-25) crushing them 112-66 in the French ProA last Saturday. He scored 12 points and blocked 2 blocks. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (17-10) is placed fourth in the ProA. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Kouguere's overall stats this season are: 4.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2FGP: 72.7%(16-22), 3FGP: 36.4% and FT: 57.1%. He has a dual citizenship: Congolese and Central African. Despite Kouguere played previously for the Congolese national team, he is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

James Mays
James Mays
   #3. The Central African player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward James Mays (206-86, college: Clemson). Mays contributed to a 2-point Mersin's victory against the 12th-ranked Hacettepe University (11-18) 73-71 in the Turkish TBL on Saturday night. He had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 14 rebounds. Mays also added 4 assists in 31 minutes. Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (12-10) is placed fourth in the TBL. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Mays has relatively good stats this year: 10.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 2FGP: 48.2%, 3FGP: 30.4% and FT: 58.7% in the 21 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Mays played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the Central African senior national team. Strangely Mays has never played in Central Africa.

Michael Mokongo
Michael Mokongo
   #4. Point guard Michael Mokongo (180-86) managed to help Chorale de Roanne Basket to win in overtime against the closely-ranked Sluc Nancy (16-11) 83-75 in the French ProA in Saturday night's game. He scored only 2 points. Chorale de Roanne Basket (15-12) is placed seventh in the ProA. 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 will be important. Mokongo's overall stats this season are: 3.0ppg and 1.3apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Central African and French. Mokongo is also Central African national team player.

Stephane Dondon
Stephane Dondon
   #5. An experienced former international forward Stephane Dondon (203-77, college: Virginia), who plays in the French ProB (second division) could not help JA Vichy (7-24) in their last game. Despite his good performance JA Vichy was badly defeated 91-71 on the road by the much higher-ranked (#9) Saint Vallier. Dondon recorded 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 15 minutes. It was JA Vichy's fifth consecutive loss in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. This year Dondon's overall stats are: 4.7ppg and 3.9rpg in the 28 games. He has both Central African and French nationalities. Despite Dondon played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Central African national team roster.

Martial Gotagni
Martial Gotagni
   #6. Forward Martial Gotagni (190-79) was not able to help Le Puy ASMB (5-27) in their game against Vendee Challans (15-17) in the French NM1 (third division). Despite his good performance on Saturday night Gotagni scored 12 points. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. It's Gotagni's first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 11.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.3apg and 1.5spg. Despite Gotagni played previously for the French national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Central African National Team roster.

Other top Central African players, who play abroad:

Anicet Lavodrama (203-F-63) plays for Blancos de Rueda in Spanish ACB
Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79) plays for Strasbourg IG in French ProA
Jimmy Djimrabaye (203-F/C-92) plays for JA Vichy in French ProB
Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78) plays for Orchesien BC in French NM1
Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83) plays for Le Puy ASMB in French NM1
Yannick Zachee (194-F-86) plays for Get Vosges in French NM2
Benjamin M'Boli (199-F-88) plays for Ouest Lyonnais in French NM2
Guy Joseph Kodjo-Sitchi (191-F-85) plays for Pornic in French NM2
Salomon Sami (190-G-77) plays for Golfe Juan in French NM2

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


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  CHILE   


National Team list for the SouthAmerican Championship - by Daniel Valencia

The head coach of the Chilean NT, Manuel Cordoba (agency: Regeneracom Sports ), gave a list of 24 players preparing for the upcoming SouthAmerican Championship, that will be held in Argentina in June.

List of 24

Pablo Barraza (184-G-94)
Andres Barry (178-G-80)
Jose Ignacio Collao (194-F-87)
Jorge Schuler (199-F-87)
Tomas Alvarez
Franco Morales (179-G-92)
Francisco Pavez (178-F-92)
Jorge Rodriguez
Sascha Frings (202-F/C-86)
Osven Ledesma (201-C-90)
Exequiel Munoz
Francisco Bravo (174-G-87)
Humberto Carrizo (202-C-86)
Sebastian Figueroa (175-G-88)
Diego Osses (185-F-88)
Jose Del Solar (195-F/C-90)
Klaus Krinfokai
Angel Labrin (182-F-91)
Christopher Altaner (197-F-86)
Cristobal Infante (201-C-88)
Francisco Jara (87)
Jose Fuentes (197-G/F-90)
Diego Aguirre (92)
Renato Vera (199-C/F-87)

Head Coach: Manuel Cordoba (agency: Regeneracom Sports )


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  COLOMBIA   


Juan Palacios selected the top Colombian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Juan Palacios
Juan Palacios
   #1. This week's number one is former international power forward Juan Palacios (204-85), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Palacios could not help Gran Canaria 2014 (11-19) to beat Blusens Monbus (11-19). He did not impress in that game on Saturday. Palacios scored only 2 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Gran Canaria 2014 was badly defeated 65-45 on the road by the higher-ranked Blusens Monbus (#13). It was Gran Canaria 2014's fourth consecutive loss in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Palacios' first season with the team. This year he averages: 7.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3FGP: 29.6% and FT: 78.6%. Palacios played for the Colombian senior national team three years ago.

   #2. Second place goes to an experienced former international forward Jorge Diaz (195-77). He was not able to help Gigantes (0-1) in their game against Bucaneros (2-0) in the Venezuelan LPB. Diaz recorded only 4 points in 13 minutes. The third-placed Gigantes was crushed 87-66 in La Guaira by the leading Bucaneros in the Group A. This year Diaz averages just 2.5ppg in the 30 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Colombian and Venezuelan. Former Pijaos Ibague starter played for the Colombian national team in 2009.

Fernando Lucena
Fernando Lucena
   #3. The Colombian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international guard Fernando Lucena (185-86). Lucena was not able to secure a victory for Toros (0-0) in their game against Bucaneros (2-0) in the Venezuelan LPB. He recorded 7 points and added 4 assists. Toros (#3) was defeated 91-80 in La Guaira by the leading Bucaneros in the Places 7-10 group. Lucena's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Lucena's overall stats this season are: 6.2ppg, 1.1rpg. He is another player who holds two passports: Colombian and Venezuelan. Despite Lucena played previously for the Venezuelan national team, he played also for the Colombian national team in 2009.

Jorge Leon
Jorge Leon
   #4. Guard Jorge Leon (188-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jorge Diaz and both played together in the last Venezuelan LPB game. Leon couldn't help Gigantes (0-1) in their game against Bucaneros (2-0). He did not have that impressive stats last Monday. Leon recorded only 2 points in 9 minutes on the court. Gigantes (#3) was crushed 87-66 in La Guaira by the leading Bucaneros in the Group A. This year Leon's overall stats are: 3.7ppg and 1.5apg in the 19 games. Similarly like Lucena and Diaz above he has both Colombian and Venezuelan nationalities. Leon used to play for the Colombian national team back in 2009.

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

   #1. Luis Julio (201-F/C-80) led Bucaneros to an easy victory against the fourth-ranked Panteras (0-2) crushing them 102-82 in the Venezuelan LPB in Friday night's game. He recorded 12 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals in 22 minutes. Bucaneros de La Guaira (2-0) is placed first in Group B. This year Julio averages: 8.7ppg and 5.9rpg in the 34 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Colombian and Venezuelan. Despite Julio's Colombian passport, he previously played for the Venezuelan national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Colombian team.

Other top Colombian players, who play abroad:

Edgar Moreno (190-G-81) plays for Pioneros in Mexican LNBP
Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) plays for Marinos in Venezuelan LPB
Jader Fernandez (197-F-82) plays for Gigantes in Venezuelan LPB
Cesar Silva (190-G/F-81) plays for Guaiqueries in Venezuelan LPB
Juan Manaure (188-G-79) plays for Guaros in Venezuelan LPB
Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) plays for Guaros in Venezuelan LPB
Deivis Ananguren (192-F-85) plays for Guaros in Venezuelan LPB
Cruz Salcedo (190-G-74) plays for Guaros in Venezuelan LPB
Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) plays for Panteras in Venezuelan LPB
Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) plays for Panteras in Venezuelan LPB
Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) plays for Toros in Venezuelan LPB

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


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  CROATIA   


Ante Tomic selected the top Croatian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Ante Tomic
Ante Tomic
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Ante Tomic (217-87). He led Real Madrid to a victory against one of league's weakest teams Asefa Estudiantes (8-21) 85-80 in a derby game in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Tomic scored 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in only a mere 14 minutes on the court. Real Madrid (23-7) is placed second in the ACB. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Tomic averages: 8.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2FGP: 59.4%(92-155) and FT: 62.0% in the 28 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Croatian senior national team.

Marko Popovic
Marko Popovic
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Marko Popovic (185-82, college: S.Idaho JC). Popovic was the major contributor in Zalgiris' victory against the closely-ranked Rudupis (16-6) 81-74 in the Lithuanian LKL last Tuesday. He recorded 16 points and added 4 assists (made all of his eight free throws). It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (21-1) is placed first in the LKL. It was his team's 21st consecutive victory in a row. Popovic belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #7. His overall stats this season are: 8.6ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.8apg, 2FGP: 60.5%(26-43), 3FGP: 29.3% and FT: 90.9%(30-33). Popovic is in the roster of the Croatian senior national team.

Jure Lalic
Jure Lalic
   #3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was former U20 international center Jure Lalic (212-86). He contributed to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Sentjur (0-8) 88-69 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Tuesday night. Lalic recorded 15 points and grabbed 4 rebounds (made all of his five free throws) in 23 minutes. Krka Novo Mesto (6-2) is placed first in Championship Group. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. This year Lalic's overall stats are: 9.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2FGP: 67.5%(27-40) and FT: 75.0% in the eight games. He played for the Croatian U20 national team six years ago.

Kresimir Loncar
Kresimir Loncar
   #4. Forward Kresimir Loncar (210-83, agency: Alti Sport), who plays in Russia could not help Khimky (12-4) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Loncar's good performance the second-placed Khimky was crushed 103-78 at home by the lower-ranked Lietuvos rytas (#3) in the group A of VTB United League. He was the second best scorer with 10 points. Loncar has relatively good stats this season: 13.3ppg and 5.0rpg. He used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2010.

Jurica Zuza
Jurica Zuza
   #5. An experienced former international center Jurica Zuza (207-78, also represented by Alti Sport) led Tofas to a victory over the closely-ranked Turk Telekom (12-17) 83-71 in the Turkish TBL last Saturday. Zuza was MVP of the game. He scored 25 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 24 minutes. Tofas Bursa (14-15) is placed eighth in the TBL. Zuza's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. This year Zuza has relatively solid stats: 12.1ppg and 4.0rpg in the 28 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team eight years ago.

Luksa Andric
Luksa Andric
   #6. Center Luksa Andric (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) contributed to a double overtime (!!!) Galatasaray's victory against the 11th-ranked Erdemir (11-18) 85-81 in the Turkish TBL on Saturday night. Andric scored 7 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (24-5) is placed first in the TBL. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is extremely important. Andric's total stats this season are: 7.6ppg and 3.8rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Croatian National Team roster.

Roko-Leni Ukic
Roko-Leni Ukic
   #7. Former international guard Roko-Leni Ukic (196-84) was not able to help Fenerbahce Ulker (20-9) in their game against Anadolu Efes (23-6) in the Turkish TBL. Ukic scored 7 points and added 3 assists in 29 minutes. Fenerbahce Ulker was edged 69-67 in a derby game by the higher-ranked (#3) Anadolu Efes. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Ukic has reliable stats this year: 11.3ppg, 2.6rpg and 4.0apg in the 21 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team two years ago.

Marko Banic
Marko Banic
   #8. Forward Marko Banic (205-84) was not able to secure a victory for Gescrap BB (17-13) in their game against Valencia Basket (18-12) in the Spanish ACB. Banic was the second best scorer with 9 points. But Gescrap BB was edged 66-63 on the road by the higher-ranked Valencia Basket (#4). They ended the series of six consecutive victories. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. It's Banic's sixth season with the team. His stats this year are: 11.6ppg and 4.3rpg. Banic used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2010.

Drago Pasalic
Drago Pasalic
   #9. Former international power forward Drago Pasalic (208-84) helped Helios win their game against the fifth-ranked Elektra (3-6) crushing them 81-59 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Wednesday night. He recorded 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 22 minutes. Helios Domzale (6-2) is placed third in Championship Group. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. Pasalic averaged so far 12.7ppg and 5.2rpg in the 26 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team three years ago.

Leon Radosevic
Leon Radosevic
   #10. Center Leon Radosevic (206-90) helped Armani Milano win their game against the tenth-ranked Air Avellino (13-16) 90-77 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Radosevic scored 8 points. EA7 Emporio Armani Milano (18-10) is placed third in the SerieA. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. It's Radosevic's first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 4.0ppg and 2.0rpg. Radosevic is a former U20 international player as two years ago he still played for the Croatian national team.

   #11. Former U20 international forward Drazen Bubnic (205-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Drago Pasalic. But that was another game of his team in Slovenian Telemach League which we would like to mention. Bubnic, who plays in the Slovenian Telemach League couldn't help Helios (6-2) in their last game. Despite his good performance Helios (#3) lost 65-74 in Ljubljana to the second-ranked Union Olimpija in the Championship Group. Bubnic was the second best scorer with 11 points. He also added 6 rebounds in 35 minutes. Bubnic averaged so far 12.9ppg, 5.0rpg and 1.8apg in the 26 games. He used to play for the Croatian U20 national team six years ago.

   #12. Former U21 international guard Petar Cosic (186-85, agency: Interperformances) helped Svit win their game against the closely-ranked Nitra 93-74 in the Slovakian Extraliga on Tuesday night. Cosic scored 21 points and added 8 passes. Cosic is currently fourth on the league's list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 5.3apg and 1.5spg. Cosic used to play for the Croatian U21 national team back in 2004.

   #13. Former international power forward Tomislav Ruzic (208-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jurica Zuza and both played together in the last Turkish TBL game. Ruzic helped Tofas win their game against the closely-ranked Turk Telekom 83-71. He scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 31 minutes. Ruzic averaged so far 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg and 1.3apg in the 15 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team twelve years ago.

   #14. Former international forward Nikola Radulovic (207-73) was the main contributor in a 1-point Givova Scafati's victory against the closely-ranked Tuscany Pistoia 88-87 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Radulovic was the best player in that game. He recorded 19 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Radulovic is currently fourth on the league's list of best blockers and also on the list of most steals (third place). This season he has very good stats: 11.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.8apg and 2.6spg. Despite Radulovic played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

   #15. Former international forward Jurica Golemac (209-77, another player represented by Beo Basket) faced previously mentioned Leon Radosevic in the Italian SerieA last game. Golemac couldn't help Air Avellino in their game against Armani Milano, despite his good performance on Sunday night. He scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 35 minutes. But his team lost 77-90. Golemac averaged so far 11.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.3apg and 1.5spg in the 29 games. Despite he played previously for the Slovenian national team, Golemac is currently in the Croatian national team roster.


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  CYPRUS   


Christopher Razis selected the top Cypriot playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Christopher Razis
Christopher Razis
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Christopher Razis (193-89), who plays in the German BBL. He could not help EWE Baskets (15-18) to beat New Yorker Phantoms (17-15). Razis scored 5 points in 11 minutes on the court. EWE Baskets lost 85-99 on the road to the higher-ranked (#7) New Yorker Phantoms. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Razis averages: 0.9ppg in the 16 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Cypriot and German. Ex-Keravnos Strovolou player is currently a member of the Cypriot senior national team.

Alexandros Vezenkov
Alexandros Vezenkov
   #2. Second place goes to former U16 international swingman Alexandros Vezenkov (204-95). Vezenkov was not able to help Aris (11-13) in their game against Panathinaikos (22-2) in the Greek A1. He did not impress in that game on Saturday. Vezenkov scored only 2 points. Aris was crushed 88-65 at home by the second-ranked Panathinaikos. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. This season Vezenkov averages just 0.6ppg. He is another player who holds two passports: Cypriot and Bulgarian. Vezenkov played for the Cypriot U16 national team in 2010.

Vassilis Kounas
Vassilis Kounas
   #3. The Cypriot player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Vassilis Kounas (195-84), who plays in the Greek A2 (second division). He was not able to secure a victory for Lavrio (14-13) in their last game. Despite Kounas' good performance Lavrio lost 70-77 on their home court in Lavrio to the higher-ranked (#3) AEK. He scored 10 points and added 5 assists in 30 minutes. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This year Kounas' overall stats are: 10.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 46.6%, 3FGP: 35.8% and FT: 81.1% in the 24 games. He has both Cypriot and Greek nationalities. Despite Kounas played previously for the Greek national team, he is currently a member of the Cypriot senior national team.

Aristides Koronidis
Aristides Koronidis
   #4. Guard Aristides Koronidis (188-82) couldn't help Perama Ermis (11-16) in their game against Apollon Patras (0-18) in the Greek A2 (second division). Koronidis scored 9 points. But Perama Ermis was defeated 79-72 in Patra by the higher-ranked Apollon s (#11). There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Koronidis belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #3. He has very reliable stats this season: 12.4ppg, 2.5rpg and 5.2apg. Koronidis also holds two passports: Cypriot and Greek. Despite he played previously for the Greek national team, Koronidis is currently in the Cypriot national team roster.

Andreas Sizopoulos
Andreas Sizopoulos
   #5. Former international guard Andreas Sizopoulos (189-83) couldn't help OFI (14-13) in their game against Amyntas Dafnis (13-14) in the Greek A2 (second division). He scored 8 points in 30 minutes. OFI lost 79-91 in Athens to the lower-ranked (#11) Amyntas Dafnis. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be extremely important. Sizopoulos has relatively good stats this year: 10.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.7apg and 1.2spg in the 27 games. Despite he played previously for the Greek national team, Sizopoulos is currently in the Cypriot national team roster.

Other top Cypriot players, who play abroad:

Prodromos Nikolaidis (201-F-78) plays for Marousi in Greek A1
Michael Petridis (199-F-81) plays for Eltham Wildcats in Australian ABA
Sasa Vural (185-G-88) plays for Srbija in Swedish Basketettan
Charis Petrou (190-G-76) plays for Doukas in Greek B
Nasos Kyriakou (182-G-89) plays for Iraklis in Greek B
Andy Sakkas (191-G-90) plays for Eastern Mavericks in Australian ABA
Petros Stylianou (188-G-87) plays for Kentavros in Greek C
Manolis Pratsinis (202-C-90) plays for BCKE in Swiss 1LN
Antreas Christodoulou (193-G-95) plays for Mantoulidis in Greek C
Rafael Eleftheriou (195-F-94) plays for Mantoulidis in Greek C

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


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Jan Vesely selected the top Czech playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Jan Vesely
Jan Vesely
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Jan Vesely (211-90). He led Washington Wizards to an easy victory against the Charlotte Bobcats (7-57) crushing them 101-73 in the NBA in Monday night's game. Vesely scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 24 minutes on the court. The Washington Wizards have not so impressive 18-46 record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Vesely averages: 4.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 52.9% and FT: 52.5% in the 55 games he played so far. He played for the Czech Republic senior national team two years ago.

Tomas Satoransky
Tomas Satoransky
   #2. Second place goes to former international guard Tomas Satoransky (200-91). Satoransky contributed to Cajasol's victory against the league outsider Blancos de Rueda (7-23) 77-72 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. He scored 10 points. Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla (17-13) is placed sixth in the ACB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Satoransky's overall stats this season are: 5.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3FGP: 28.6% and FT: 73.7%. He played for the Czech Republic national team in 2010.

Jiri Welsch
Jiri Welsch
   #3. The Czech Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Jiri Welsch (201-80). Welsch contributed to an overtime Spirou Charleroi's victory against one of league's weakest teams Belgacom Liege (8-18) 95-93 in the Belgian D1 on Wednesday night. He scored 6 points and added 3 assists in 25 minutes. Belgacom Spirou (19-8) is placed first in the D1. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Welsch's overall stats are: 8.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 45.8%, 3FGP: 29.6% and FT: 68.5% in the 26 games. He played for the Czech Republic national team two years ago.

David Steffel
David Steffel
   #4. Power forward David Steffel (212-85) contributed to an Rovinari's surprising victory against the league leader Gaz Metan (22-5) crushing them 89-69 in the Romanian Division A in Wednesday night's game. Steffel recorded a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 12 rebounds. He also added 4 assists and 3 steals. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (16-12) is placed eighth in the Division A. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Steffel has relatively good stats this season: 12.9ppg, 8.3rpg and 1.6apg. He used to play for the Czech Republic national team back in 2010.

Jakub Kudlacek
Jakub Kudlacek
   #5. International guard Jakub Kudlacek (193-90), who plays in the Italian SerieA could not help Otto Caserta (11-17) in their last game. Despite Kudlacek's good performance Otto Caserta was badly defeated 84-66 on the road by the much higher-ranked (#7) CS Bologna. He scored 10 points in 21 minutes. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. It's Kudlacek's first season with the team. This year Kudlacek's total stats are: 5.8ppg and 1.3rpg in the 12 games. He plays currently for the Czech Republic national team.

Ondrej Starosta
Ondrej Starosta
   #6. An experienced center Ondrej Starosta (215-79), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) was not able to help Grupo Iruna Navarra (5-21) in their last game on Friday. Despite Starosta's good performance the league leader Grupo Iruna Navarra was edged 67-64 on the opponent's court by the second-ranked Ford_Burgos. He recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 10 rebounds. Starosta's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Starosta belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #5. He has very reliable stats this season: 12.5ppg, 8.1rpg and 1.1apg. Starosta is a former international player as he played for the Czech Republic senior team four years ago.

David Jelinek
David Jelinek
   #7. Former international guard David Jelinek (196-90) was not able to secure a victory for FIATC Joventut (13-17) in their game against Lagun Aro GBC (17-13) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 6 points in only 13 minutes. FIATC Joventut lost 85-90 in San Sebastian to the much higher-ranked (#5) Lagun Aro GBC. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. Jelinek has averaged so far 7.5ppg and 1.2rpg in the 30 games. He used to play for the Czech Republic national team two years ago.

Ondrej Kohout
Ondrej Kohout
   #8. Forward Ondrej Kohout (204-91), who plays in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) couldn't help Fontedoso Carrefour (10-13) in their last game on Friday. Despite Kohout's good performance Fontedoso Carrefour was badly defeated 69-51 on the opponent's court by the second-ranked Ourense. He was the second best scorer with 10 points. Kohout's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Kohout has averaged so far 7.1ppg and 4.5rpg. He plays currently for the Czech Republic U20 national team.

Jan Kratochvil
Jan Kratochvil
   #9. International forward Jan Kratochvil (200-82) couldn't help Komarno (22-10) in their game against Prievidza (22-10) in the Slovakian Extraliga. Kratochvil scored only 4 points in 14 minutes. The league leader Komarno was edged 67-66 at home by the second-ranked Prievidza. Kratochvil has averaged so far 8.6ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.7apg in the 40 games. He is also in the roster of the Czech Republic national team.

Ivo Hoger
Ivo Hoger
   #10. Center Ivo Hoger (225-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) couldn't help Olimpi (16-4) in their game against Armia (20-0) in the Georgian Superleague. Hoger recorded only 4 points. Olimpi was defeated 78-66 in a derby game by the leading Armia. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Hoger is ranked sixth on the list of the best rebounders in the league. This season he has very good stats: 12.8ppg and 8.7rpg. Hoger is an international player who is currently on the senior Czech Republic National Team roster.

   #11. U20 international forward Samuel Faifr (203-93) managed to help CB Ins Oftamologico Clinicas Rincon in a victory against the 13th-ranked Baloncesto Leon 76-65 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. He scored only 3 points in 20 minutes. This year Faifr averages just 2.3ppg in the 28 games. He plays currently for the Czech Republic U20 national team.


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  DENMARK   


Chanan Colman named Player Of The Year. - by Thomas Soltau

Healthy and ready to go Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) has shown the Danish basketball world that he surely is one of the elite players in the CDL.

The experienced combo-guard went into this season on a mission, and with 16PPG and more than 4 APG, and 4RPG he has set him himself apart.

First leading his Svendborg Rabbits to a Cup title, and now in the CDL-finals he continues his impressive season and his quest for gold.

With odds against them and down 3-1 the Rabbits will need their MVP to step up even more, as they try to get back in the series.

Eurobasket Denmark


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  DR CONGO   


Wen Boss Mukubu selected the top Congolese playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Wen Boss Mukubu
Wen Boss Mukubu
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Wen Boss Mukubu (198-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB), who plays in the Belgian D1. Mukubu could not help VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-22) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his very good performance the bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster was defeated 95-88 on the road by the higher-ranked Leuven Bears (#5). Mukubu scored 15 points, had 7 boards, dished 4 assists and stole 3 balls. It's Mukubu's first season with the team. Mukubu is currently seventh on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of most steals (second place). He has very reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.6apg, 2.2spg, 2FGP: 43.7%, 3FGP: 16.7% and FT: 61.0%. Mukubu has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and Belgian. Despite he played previously for the Belgian national team, Mukubu is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team.

Yannick Bokolo
Yannick Bokolo
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Yannick Bokolo (190-85). He managed to help BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral in a victory against one of league's weakest teams Pau-Lacq-Orthez (6-21) 88-71 in the French ProA last Saturday. Bokolo scored only 2 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 10 minutes. BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (24-3) is placed first in the ProA. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Bokolo is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Gravelines-Dunkerque's roster. This season he averages: 8.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 53.1%, 3FGP: 24.6% and FT: 39.0% in the 26 games he played so far. Bokolo is another player who holds two passports: DR Congolese and French. He is in the roster of the DR Congolese senior national team.

Bambale Osby
Bambale Osby
   #3. The DR Congolese player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland). He contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (17-14) 95-80 in the French ProB (second division) on Saturday night. Osby recorded 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (20-11) is placed fourth in the ProB. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. Osby is currently seventh on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (fifth place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Osby averages: 15.5ppg, 9.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 59.8%(192-321) and FT: 56.5%. He is a naturalized American. Worth to mention Osby played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite Osby played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team. Strangely Osby has never played in DR Congo.

Kris Morlende
Kris Morlende
   #4. Point guard Kris Morlende (182-79) was not able to help Boulazac Basket (22-9) in their game against Bordeaux (18-13) in the French ProB (second division). He cannot count it as his best performance. Morlende recorded only 3 points in 3 minutes on the court. Boulazac Basket lost 72-78 on the opponent's court to the lower-ranked (#6) Bordeaux. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. This year Morlende's overall stats are: 2.0ppg and 1.3apg in the three games. He has both DR Congolese and French nationalities. Morlende is also DR Congolese national team player.

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

   #1. Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, college: Princeton) contributed to an easy victory against the 11th-ranked Unicaja Malaga (14-16) crushing them 89-57 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. He scored 9 points in only 14 minutes. Regal FC Barcelona (25-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Wallace's first season with the team. This year Wallace averages: 5.3ppg and 4.2rpg in the 25 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Wallace has never played in DR Congo.

   #2. Bismack Biyombo (207-C-92), who plays in the NBA could not help the Charlotte Bobcats (7-57) to beat the Chicago Bulls (48-16). He recorded 7 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists and made 2 blocks. The Charlotte Bobcats were crushed 100-68 on the road by the Bulls. It was Bobcats' 21st consecutive loss in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the NBA Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. It's Biyombo's first season with the team. This year Biyombo averages: 5.2ppg, 5.9rpg and 1.8bpg.

   #3. Charles Kahudi (197-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Hyeres-Toulon (2-25) crushing them 112-66 in the French ProA on Saturday night. He scored 8 points and added 4 assists in 20 minutes. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (17-10) is placed fourth in the ProA. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Kahudi has relatively good stats this year: 11.3ppg, 5.2rpg and 1.4apg in the 25 games. He has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and French. Despite Kahudi's DR Congolese passport, he currently plays for the French national team and is not eligible to play for the DR Congolese team.

Other top DR Congolese players, who play abroad:

Igor Ibaka (203-F/C-92) plays for Assignia Manresa in Spanish ACB
Bienvenue Letuni (227-C-94) plays for FIATC Joventut in Spanish ACB
Kevin Tumba (192-F/G-91) plays for Belfius Mons-Hainaut in Belgian D1
Ken Bongo Nsoli (204-C/F-91) plays for Poitiers in French ProA
Webber Lufanga (188-G-94) plays for Baloncesto Leon in Spanish LEB Gold
Olivier Ilunga (185-G-84) plays for 08 Stockholm in Swedish Basketligan
Albert Ngoy (178-G-93) plays for Kapfenberg Bulls in Austrian A Bundesliga
Samba Oppizzi-Nakalamb (198-F-79) plays for Fribourg in Swiss LNA

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


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  EBA   


Hype Wins 2012 EBA Championship - by EBA Media

Hudson Valley Hype hit a high note on their miracle season with a hard-fought 102 93 win over the defending EBA Champion Metropolitan All-Stars from Washington, DC.

The Hype, who finished in last place in 2011 with a 1-11 record, started their 2012 campaign with a win and never looked back. They marched through their season with a division-winning 9-1 record, took care of Washington Madness 119 108 in the semi's, and put the icing on the cake by hoisting the EBA Championship trophy.

Nick Carter scored 21 of his game-high 34 points in the second half to bring the Hype back from a 10-point deficit. He was backed-up by Nick Leon who had 9 of his 21 points in the 4th quarter to assure victory for the Hype.


Metro All-Stars, playing without their recently Peru-bound All-Star forward Elyon Bush, had to depend on a strong inside game led by Calvin Brown, Jr. In the end, however, the outside shooting of the Hype prevailed. Terrance Carter had 23 points for the All-Stars, followed by Brown at 21.




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  EUROLEAGUE   


Montepaschi Siena land Jonas Maciulis - by Eurobasket News

Montepaschi Siena announced the signing of contract with Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85). The deal is meant for the season with an option of extending it for another one. The forward started the season in Lithuania. He played for KK Baltai Kaunas. Jonas Maciulis posted 11.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL the forward delivered 19.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists per appearance. Jonas Maciulis is not new to Italy. He used to play for Armani Jeans in 2009/11 seasons. The forward also had stints with LKKA-Atletas and Zalgiris. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Lithuanian LKL Domestic Player of the Year in 2007. He has been the member of Lithuanian National Team since 2006. Jonas Maciulis participated at 2011 EuroBasket. His stats read 9.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Lithuania.


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  FRANCE   


Herard's double-double lands him NM1 Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

32-year old forward Fabien Herard (198-F-79) put on an amazing game in the last round for Challans and receives a Eurobasket.com NM1 Player of the Week award for round 32.
He had a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Le Puy (#17, 5-27) 68-57. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Challans is placed at 11th position in French NM1. Challans 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 15-17 record. In the team's last game Herard had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Challans, through which he has constantly improved. Herard has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (6th best: 16.2ppg) and averages solid 55.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Mouhammadou Jaiteh (201-F/C-94) of CFBB. He is a forward in his second season at CFBB. In the last game Jaiteh recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as CFBB lost that game 71-88 to the higher-ranked Brest (#9, 17-15). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. CFBB is still at the dead bottom 18th position. 29 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories CFBB managed to get this year. Jaiteh is well-known at CFBB and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Samir Mekdad (188-G-86) of Sorgues (#8). Mekdad scored 18 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Mekdad's great performance Sorgues lost 80-95 to the higher-ranked St Quentin (#1, 25-7). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Sorgues needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 18 victories and 14 lost games. Mekdad has a very solid season. In 24 games in France he scored 10.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Julien Lesieu (199-F-83) of St Quentin - 21 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Damien Pistre (190-G-83) of Charleville - 25 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Jahsha Bluntt (198-G-84) of Orchy - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Ian Caskill (207-C-81) of Cognac - 14 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Sadio Doucoure) of Cognac - 16 points and 7 rebounds
9. Regis Aubry (199-F-82) of Montbrison - 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Cedric Mansare (196-F-85) of Rueil - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 6 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)


Evan Fournier set to take part in NBA Draft - by Eurobasket News

Evan Fournier (199-G/F-92) will participate in NBA Draft. The French player however claimed he would withdraw his nomination if not chosen in the first round. Evan Fournier spent the last season with Union Poitiers Basket. He averaged 13.9 points, 3.3 boards, 2.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game in ProA. Evan Fournier participated at 2012 ProA All-Star Game. Previously the guard had stints with Nanterre and Central Federal du Basket-Ball. Evan Fournier was the member of U16, U18 and U20 French National Teams. He led U20 team to the Bronze medals at 2011 European Championship. Evan Fournier posted 16.9 points, 3.3 boards and 1.8 assists per game in Bilbao. The guard also joined French National Team in 2011.


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  GERMANY   


Torsten Daume Remains BG Karlsruhe Head Coach - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


BG Karlsruhe announced today that the organization will continue to trust the work of head coach Torsten Daume as he will remain on board next season. The team just missed the playoffs this season ending the season at 14-14 and in ninth place and the team has high goals. 'We are working on keeping the roster together for next season. Our goal is to get strength at one position and want to reach the playoffs and get home court advantage. It is an advantage to have the homecourt, because those team have a better planning security. We hope to be able to keep important players like Jonathan Moore and justin Howard. This would have the advantage that these players wouldnt need to get used to the surroundings that they all ready know about', described Torsten Daume

Source: BG Karlsruhe


Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro B Awards 2011-12 - by Moritz Korff

All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro B 1st Team 2012
#s#
Marcus Monk
Monk
Zamal Nixon
Nixon
Jason Jamerson
Jamerson
Vincent Kittmann
Kittmann
Jacob Doerksen
Doerksen
#e#5

Player of the Year: Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86) of Gotha
Guard of the Year: Zamal Nixon (185-G-89) of Herten
Forward of the Year: Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86) of Gotha
Center of the Year: Jacob Doerksen (200-F-87) of Hannover
Most Improved Player of the Year: Dennis Schroeder (186-G-93) of NY Phantoms
Import Player of the Year: Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86) of Gotha
Domestic Player of the Year: Vincent Kittmann (199-F-88) of Herten
Defensive Player of the Year: Daniel Theis (207-C-92) of NY Phantoms
Newcomer of the Year: Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95) of Rist Wedel
Coach of the Year: Torsten Schierenbeck of Dorsten

1st Team
G: Zamal Nixon (185-89) of Herten
G: Jason Jamerson (188-86) of Noerdlingen
G/F: Marcus Monk (198-86) of Gotha
F: Vincent Kittmann (199-88) of Herten
F: Jacob Doerksen (200-87) of Hannover

2nd Team
G: Dennis Schroeder (186-93) of NY Phantoms
G: Richard Williams (178-87) of Hannover
F: A.J. Rudowitz (198-88) of Vechta
C: Daniel Theis (207-92) of NY Phantoms
C: Blake Poole (195-88) of Dorsten

Honorable Mention
Sascha Ahnsehl (186-G-86) of BSW Sixers
Torvoris Baker (203-F-83) of Gotha
Kedrick Johnson (192-F-83) of Noerdlingen
Henje Knopke (193-G/F-85) of Wolfenbuettel
Leo Niebuhr (208-F-86) of Gotha
Anthony Pettaway (203-C-87) of Rist Wedel
Monyea Pratt (196-F-85) of Leipzig
Howard Sant-Roos (198-G/F-91) of SU Medien
Marcus Smallwood (198-F-82) of Vechta

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Dennis Schroeder (186-93) of NY Phantoms
G: Sascha Ahnsehl (186-86) of BSW Sixers
F: Vincent Kittmann (199-88) of Herten
C: Daniel Theis (207-92) of NY Phantoms
F: Leo Niebuhr (208-86) of Gotha

All-Imports Team
G: Zamal Nixon (185-89) of Herten
G: Jason Jamerson (188-86) of Noerdlingen
G/F: Marcus Monk (198-86) of Gotha
C: Blake Poole (195-88) of Dorsten
F: Jacob Doerksen (200-87) of Hannover

All-Defensive Team
Richard Williams (178-G-87) of Hannover
Stuart Turnbull (188-G-84) of Dragons
Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86) of Gotha
Kedrick Johnson (192-F-83) of Noerdlingen
Daniel Theis (207-C-92) of NY Phantoms

All-Newcomers Team
Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95) of Rist Wedel
Florian Koch (197-F-92) of Telekom Baskets
Tim Kasper (198-F-92) of Dragons
Walter Simon (202-F-89) of Leipzig
Oliver Mackeldanz (212-C-90) of Stahnsdorf

The votes have been made by coaches and team officials of the Pro B teams plus one vote made by Eurobasket.com


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  GREECE   


A1 Semifinals: Greens and Reds take 1-0 lead (best-of-five) - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos - Kolossos 103-67 (1-0)
The game without a history. Panathinaikos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 61.3 percent from the field. Panathinaikos forced 20 Kolossos turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Panathinaikos especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Kolossos' players. International power forward Ian Vougioukas (212-85, college: St.Louis) stepped up and scored 13 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Dimitris Diamantidis (196-80) chipped in 6 points and 8 assists. At the losing side American guard Scotty Hopson (200-89, college: Tennessee) responded with 19 points and forward Antonis Asimakopoulos (204-76) scored 12 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Panathinaikos: K.Kaimakoglou 13+3reb, I.Vougioukas 13+5reb+3ast, S.Jasikevicius 12+1ast, D.Logan 11+1reb+3ast, S.Perperoglou 9+3reb+2ast, S.Smith 9+3reb
Kolossos: S.Hopson 19+3reb, A.Asimakopoulos 12+4reb, A.Tsamis 10+2reb+1ast, S.Panos 9+5reb, R.Boykin 6+5reb+2ast, M.Hatten 4+1reb+3ast
gschID: 175275


Olympiacos - Panionios 83-67 (1-0)
Olympiacos forced 22 Panionios turnovers. 28 personal fouls committed by Panionios helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Joey Dorsey (206-83, college: Memphis) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). International guard Vassilis Spanoulis (193-82, agency: Beo Basket) contributed with 13 points for the winners. Four Olympiacos players scored in double figures. American guard Jon Diebler (198-88, college: Ohio St.) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import point guard William Keys (188-77, college: N.Mexico St.) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Panionios. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Olympiacos: J.Dorsey 13+7reb, V.Spanoulis 13+3reb+3ast, G.Printezis 12+2reb+1ast, M.Gecevicius 10+3reb+1ast, M.Keselj 9+2reb+1ast, P.Antic 9+4reb
Panionios: J.Diebler 17+6reb+1ast, W.Keys 14+5reb+1ast, V.Xanthopoulos 8+2reb+6ast, S.Nadjfeji 7+4reb+1ast, V.Kavvadas 6+5reb, N.Barlos 6+1reb+2ast

*Second games are scheduled for Thursday and same teams will be the hosts.


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  HOLLAND   


Dourisseau number one in Holland for round 2 (second stage) - by Eurobasket News

American guard Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Groningen, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Round award for round 2 (Second Stage). The 28-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds, while his team crushed Nijmegen (0-2) with 22-point margin 85-63. Groningen has 1-0 record in Group B. In the team's last game Dourisseau had a remarkable 61.5% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Groningen, through which he has constantly improved.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Seamus Boxley (201-F-82, agency: Prossin Sports Management) of Leiden. Boxley had a very good evening with a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. It was enough for Leiden to edge Den Bosch (1-1) 78-77. Leiden started with victory and has 1-0 score in Group A. Boxley is one of the most experienced players at Leiden and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.2ppg (#5). He also registered 7.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Groningen's star - American guard Alex Wesby (196-G-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy). Wesby scored 18 points. He was another key player of Groningen, helping his team with a 85-63 easy win against Nijmegen. Wesby has a great season in Holland. After 28 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.3ppg (7th best). He also has FGP: 60.0% and 3PT: 42.5%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tai Wesley (200-F-86) of Den Bosch - 18 points and 4 rebounds
5. Frank Turner (178-PG-88) of Den Bosch - 10 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
6. David Bell (186-G-81) of Groningen - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Sergio de Randamie (201-F-84) of Groningen - 5 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Stefan Wessels (203-F-84) of Den Bosch - 10 points and 3 rebounds
9. Thijs Vermeulen (194-F-85) of Nijmegen - 9 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. David Gonzalvez (193-G-87) of Den Bosch - 10 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)


Lasaulec Aris shooting guard Tjoe De Paula out for weeks - by Fred Roggen

Lasaulec Aris have suffered an injury blow as shooting guard Tjoe de Paula (185-G-81, agency: Court Side) faces a fortnight on the sidelines.

Tjoe de Paula was taken to the hospital with acute appendicitis. De Paula is expected to be released from the hospital in the next few days. Recovery from an appendectomy varies,
and no timetable has been set for his return to the lineup.
Tjoe de Paula was averaging 9.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists. He shot 51.7 percent from the floor, 33.3 percent on three-pointers and 83.1 percent from the foul line this season



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  HUNGARY   


Quarterfinals: Falco and Atomeromu force crucial Game Five - by Eurobasket News

Fourth games of the Playoff Quarterfinals in Hungary were played last night. Falco grabbed 59-62 road win against Soproni, while Atomeromu outplayed Kormend at home 75-60. It means that Falco and Atomeromu tied their series at 2-2 and forced crucial Game Five. Kormend will host Atomeromu tomorrow, while Falco will play against Soproni on Monday. The winners of these two games will meet each other in the Playoff Semifinals.

Soproni - Falco-Szova 59-62 (2-2)
The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-17. But Soproni won second period 11-7. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Soproni outrebounded Falco-Szova 40-25 including a 17-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) fired 22 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Serbian forward Djordje Pantelic (204-84) chipped in 6 points and 10 rebounds. American guard Janou Rubin (193-82, college: UCLA, agency: Two Points) produced 11 points and 6 rebounds and the former international swingman Andras Molnar (195-83, agency: TSS Management) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Soproni's coach Robert Meszlenyi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 22+7reb+3ast, Z.Szabo 11+1reb, T.Will 9+2reb, D.Pantelic 6+10reb+1ast, M.Szanati 4+1reb, B.Jancikin 3+2reb
Soproni: A.Molnar 16+3reb, D.Thomas 13+1reb+2ast, J.Rubin 11+6reb+3ast, B.Egemonye 9+9reb, R.Keresztes 7+5reb, G.Gombas 3+9reb+2ast
gschID: 175179


Atomeromu - Kormend 75-60 (2-2)
The game was mostly controlled by Atomeromu. Kormend was better in second period 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Atomeromu dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Kormend's 36. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Lorenzo Williams (191-84, college: Rice, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 assists. The other American import Nick Williams (192-83, college: Cincinnati, agency: Beo Basket) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Atomeromu players scored in double figures. The former international guard Istvan Nemeth (190-79, agency: Interperformances) replied with 16 points and 7 rebounds and the former international guard Csaba Ferencz (194-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Kormend. Kormend's coach Zoran Martic tested ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Atomeromu: L.Williams 19+3reb+4ast, D.Vojvoda 14+2reb+1ast, N.Williams 11+7reb+3ast, T.Frost 10+5reb, T.Kaman 8+10reb+3ast, A.Toth 6+6reb
Kormend: I.Nemeth 16+7reb+3ast, J.Eilingsfeld 15+2reb, C.Ferencz 12+5reb+1ast, D.Townes 5+7reb+2ast, D.Mladenovic 4+3reb+3ast, M.English 4+2ast


It all ends in Debrecen - by Obadiah Trotter

Who would have ever thought we would make it to the EuroChallenge Final Four?! Me being a player for Szolnok, I definetly did not think we would make it this far. I know its kinda sad that I would think that right? Now that we have made it this far I know we are capable of writing history and becoming the EuroChallenge champions!! My goal for this years EuroChallenge was to make it past the first round. The previous year we were so close but we came up just a little bit short, and that left a sour taste in my mouth as well as my teammates. We were able to make it past the first round, 'Thank God!' and I was satisfied with that. However we kept progressing and rode the momentum of the first round, started winning more games and before you know it we were in the final 8. When we reached this point in the tournament I felt like a kid in the candy store wanting more and more. I was thinking in my head, ' hey we made it this far why not set your goals even higher'. We did get some help from Aalstar in that round that propelled us into the final 8 but once again thank God haha! Ok so now we made it to the final 8 and we are up against Ventspils, a young and talented team. They were a very tough team to beat at home, and it showed the first game where they dominated us. We were beaten mentally and physically that night. We came back the next game more willing and eager to prove we could win. We won the next two games and celebrated on there home court :) as we wrote history in advancing to the final 4. That brings us now to Debrecen, Hungary where the Eurochallenge final 4 is being held. Its been a long journey from the start and it will all end here!! It will be us Szolnok, Hungary, Chalon, France, Besiktas, Turkey, and Triumph, Russia!
I want to also take the time to thank all of the Szolnok fans, and everyone else you have been supporting us throughout the EuroChallenge. We could not have done it without you. I am looking forward and I know my teammates are looking forward to the weekend where we will fight for the championship. And for those who are hoping that we lose we are representing Hungary, not just Szolnok. It would be a great achievement for a country that does not get as much respect in basketball as the other powerhouses do to win it all. But anyways I think thats long enough :) We are off to Debrecen tomorrow and we will see all you guys, and gals there :) If not at the gym hopefully you will watch it on your TV's. Take care everyone and God bless!!


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  ICELAND   


Express L. Round 1 of Finals. Grindavik take the lead - by Eurobasket News

Grindavik - Thor Thorl 93-89

Grindavik surged ahead in the championship series. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Thor Thorl won third quarter 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Grindavik looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-87, college: Cleveland St., agency: Pro One Sports) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) answered with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists and forward Joseph Henley (196-85, college: Sacred Heart) added 15 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Thor Thorl. Five Grindavik and four Thor Thorl players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Grindavik: J.Bullock 29+9reb+1ast, G.Watson 16+4reb+13ast, J.Olafsson 14+3reb+4ast, T.Olafsson 12+2reb+4ast, S.Thorsteinsson 10+6reb+4ast, R.Pettinella 8+6reb+1ast
Thor Thorl: B.Janev 17+4reb+2ast, D.Govens 17+7reb+8ast, G.Jonsson 15+2reb+2ast, J.Henley 15+9reb, G.Erlendsson 11+1reb+1ast, D.Hilmarsson 9+5reb+2ast
gschID: 175147



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  INDONESIA   


NBL Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Pelita Jaya - Stadium Jak. 81-57

Pelita Jaya remained in the race for the tile after cruising past Staduim Jakarta. The game was mostly controlled by Pelita Jaya. Stadium Jakarta managed to win fourth quarter 16-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Pelita Jaya dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Stadium Jakarta's 20. Pelita Jaya had a 31-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Pelita Jaya especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Pelita Jaya made 7 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Andi Poedjakesuma (187-80) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 5 rebounds. Center Fidyan Dini (195-83) contributed with 17 points (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Center R Ruslan (197-89) answered with 12 points and point guard Fanny Budianto (170-83) added 8 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Stadium Jakarta. 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:
Pelita Jaya: A.Poedjakesuma 28+5reb+3ast, F.Dini 17+3reb, A.Chandra 9+2reb+3ast, K.Purwanto 9+5reb+2ast, E.Sebayang 7+2reb+1ast, D.Aryo Dewanto 7+6reb+3ast
Stadium Jak.: R.Ruslan 12+4reb+1ast, M.Wicaksono 10+4reb, F.Budianto 8+5reb+3ast, M.Ferdiansyah 6+1reb+2ast, D.Iskandar 5+3reb, A.Sujarwo 5+3reb+4ast
gschID: 175400


Garuda - CLS Knights 67-59

Garuda overcame CLS Knights to set up the clash versus Satria Muda in the semis. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 17-10. But CLS Knights won second period 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Garuda made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by CLS Knights helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a very good performance for the former international point guard Wendha Wijaya (181-82) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Forward Christ Gideon (188-84) contributed with 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four Garuda players scored in double figures. Sandy Febiansyakh (190-86) answered with 16 points and 6 rebounds and the former international center Agustinus Indrajaya (191-83) added 8 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for CLS Knights. CLS Knights' coach Risdianto Roeslan rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Garuda: H.Ramli 16+4reb, C.Gideon 12+8reb+1ast, V.Nolland 11+7reb, O.Sura 10+6reb+2ast, W.Wijaya 9+6reb+7ast, H.Agustinus 4+2ast
CLS Knights: S.Febiansyakh 16+6reb, T.Agus 8+2reb, A.Indrajaya 8+8reb, R.Utomo 7+1reb, A.Ekayana 7+1reb+1ast, W.Saputra 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 175401



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  ITALY   


Enel Brindisi signs PG Jonathan Gibson - by Eurobasket News

Jonathan Gibson (182-PG-87, college: N.Mexico St.) officially became a new member of Enel Brindisi. The American point guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Gibson arrives to Brindisi from Turkish Trabzonspor. He appeared 29 times for them in TBL averaging 19.9 points, 3.7 assists and 2.5 rebounds. Jonathan Gibson split last season between Turkey and Israel. He started it with Oyak Renault registering 18.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 3.3 apg for 11 TBL games. In January of 2011, Gibson signed a deal with Ironi Ashkelon. There, his numbers dropped to 7.3 ppg and 1.3 apg for 16 Premier league games. Jonathan Gibson is a product of the New Mexico State University. He graduated there in 2010.


Montepaschi Siena land Jonas Maciulis - by Eurobasket News

Montepaschi Siena announced the signing of contract with Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85). The deal is meant for the season with an option of extending it for another one. The forward started the season in Lithuania. He played for KK Baltai Kaunas. Jonas Maciulis posted 11.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL the forward delivered 19.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists per appearance. Jonas Maciulis is not new to Italy. He used to play for Armani Jeans in 2009/11 seasons. The forward also had stints with LKKA-Atletas and Zalgiris. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Lithuanian LKL Domestic Player of the Year in 2007. He has been the member of Lithuanian National Team since 2006. Jonas Maciulis participated at 2011 EuroBasket. His stats read 9.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Lithuania.


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  JAPAN   


Asia-Basket.com All-Japanese JBL Superleague - by Eurobasket Center

All-Japanese JBL Superleague 1st Team 2011-12
#s#
J.R. Sakuragi
Sakuragi
Takuya Kawamura
Kawamura
Kosuke Kanamaru
Kanamaru
Jai Lewis
Lewis
Joji Takeuchi
Takeuchi
#e#5

Player of the Year: J.R. Sakuragi (206-F/C-76) of Aishin SH
Domestic Player of the Year: Takuya Kawamura (193-G-86) of Tochigi Brex
Import Player of the Year: Jai Lewis (201-F-83) of Hokkaido L.
Defensive Player of the Year: Kosuke Takeuchi (206-C/F-85) of Toyota Alvark
Sixth Man of the Year: Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85) of Toyota Alvark
Rookie of the Year: Kosuke Kanamaru (193-F/G-89) of Panasonic T.
Co-Coach of the Year: Don Beck of Toyota Alvark
Co-Coach of the Year: Torsten Loibl of Hokkaido L.

1st Team
G: Takuya Kawamura (193-86) of Tochigi Brex
F/G: Kosuke Kanamaru (193-89) of Panasonic T.
F: Jai Lewis (201-83) of Hokkaido L.
F/C: Joji Takeuchi (206-85) of Hitachi SR
F/C: J.R. Sakuragi (206-76) of Aishin SH

2nd Team
G: Kei Igarashi (180-80) of Mitsubishi DD
G/F: Mamadou Diouf (197-77) of Hokkaido L.
F: Jeff Gibbs (188-80) of Toyota Alvark
F: Philip Ricci (202-80) of Toyota Alvark
F: Ivan McFarlin (203-82) of Tochigi Brex

Honorable Mention
Kevin Young (206-C-84) of Aishin SH
Charles O'Bannon (198-F-75) of Panasonic T.
Tilo Klette (206-C/F-77) of Hokkaido L.
Ace Custis (202-F-74) of Panasonic T.
Ryota Sakurai (194-G-83) of Hokkaido L.
Fumio Nishimura (177-G-86) of Hitachi SR
Shohei Kikuchi (190-F/G-85) of Toshiba BT
Keijuro Matsui (188-G-85) of Toyota Alvark
Hironori Watanabe (180-G-88) of Panasonic T.
Takatoshi Furukawa (190-G/F-87) of Aishin SH
Yusuke Okada (185-G-84) of Toyota Alvark
Daiji Yamada (200-C-81) of Tochigi Brex
Daisuke Kobayashi (188-G-87) of Hitachi SR

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Kei Igarashi (180-80) of Mitsubishi DD
G: Takuya Kawamura (193-86) of Tochigi Brex
F/G: Kosuke Kanamaru (193-89) of Panasonic T.
F/C: J.R. Sakuragi (206-76) of Aishin SH
F/C: Joji Takeuchi (206-85) of Hitachi SR

All-Imports Team
F: Jai Lewis (201-83) of Hokkaido L.
F: Ivan McFarlin (203-82) of Tochigi Brex
F: Philip Ricci (202-80) of Toyota Alvark
F: Chris Moss (204-80) of Toshiba BT
F: Jeff Gibbs (188-80) of Toyota Alvark


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


BC Astana extends Jerry Johnson and Luka Drca - by Eurobasket News

BC Astana actively works on building the roster for the next season. The team from the Kazakhstan capital announced signing of a two-year contract extension with point guard Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider). They also kept Luka Drca (195-PG-87, agency: Beo Basket, college: Utah) for the next season. Astana already signed contract extensions with Rawle Marshall, Branko Cvetkovic and Head Coach Matteo Boniciolli.
Jerry Johnson appeared 16 times for the club in VTB United League averaging 14.2 points, 3.8 assists and 2.4 assists. Luka Drca had 6 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.6 apg for 5 games in VTB. He joined the club in January.
BC Astana already won the Kazakhstani Cup this year and they have 1-0 lead against Barsy Atyrau in the league Finals. Astana was the regular season champ with perfect 20-0 record. They finished as the seventh ranked team in VTB United League with 7-9 record. BC Astana plays its first season, as the team is formed less than a year ago.


Astana Tigers claim first win in title series - by Eurobasket News

Astana Tigers - Barsy Atyrau 98:75

Astana Tigers cruised past Barsy Atyrau in the championship series opener. Rawle Marshall (201-G-82, college: Oakland) stepped up with 22 points to lead the hosts to the victory.
The Tigers grabbed a narrow 22:19 lead after ten minutes of action. The margin grew deeper in the second term. Astana poured in 28 points in the period to establish a 50:39 halftime advantage. The Tigers stayed in charge throughout the third term. They accumulated a 70:56 advantage with ten minutes left. Astana exploded with 28 points in the fourth period giving no chance for the visitors. Eric Williams (206-C-84, college: Wake Forest) had 18 points, while Pavel Ilin (202-F-92) and Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) added 17 points each in the victory. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) answered with 17 points for Barsy. Sergei Sabutskyy (209-C-86) had 15 points in the loss.

Astana Tigers: Rawle Marshall 22, Eric Williams 18, Pavel Ilin 17, Jerry Johnson 17
Barsy Atyrau: Dmitriy Gavrilov 17, Sergei Sabutskyy 15


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


LKL Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Siauliai and Zalgiris get victories - by Eurobasket News

Siauliai - Lietuvos rytas 74-65

Siauliai stunned Lietuvos Rytas at home court to surge ahead in the best-of-three series. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 74-65. Siauliai made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Strangely Lietuvos rytas outrebounded Siauliai 37-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Lietuvos rytas helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Cam Long (193-88, college: George Mason, agency: KMG Sports Management) stepped up and scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) chipped in 14 points (made all of his eight free throws). At the losing side the former international swingman Arturas Jomantas (200-85) responded with 17 points and 6 rebounds and the former international guard Renaldas Seibutis (195-85) scored 12 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Lietuvos rytas: A.Jomantas 17+6reb, R.Seibutis 12+4reb+1ast, M.Katelynas 9+7reb, J.Valanciunas 8+7reb+2ast, P.Samardziski 8+5reb+1ast, L.Roberts 5+4reb+1ast
Siauliai: C.Long 20+5reb+6ast, R.Broadus 14+3reb+2ast, R.Grafs 10+2reb, E.Ruzgas 7+3reb, V.Vasylius 5+3reb+1ast, V.Sarakauskas 5+4reb+1ast
gschID: 175266


Rudupis - Zalgiris 74-81

Rudupis surrendered against visiting Zalgiris in the opener. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 22-11. But Rudupis won second period 23-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international guard Mantas Kalnietis (196-86, agency: Interperformances) nailed 14 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side and the former international forward Paulius Jankunas (205-84) accounted for 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zalgiris' coach Aleksandar Trifunovic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Gintaras Kadziulis (193-80) came up with 14 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals and swingman Adas Juskevicius (194-89) added 13 points respectively for Rudupis in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Rudupis: G.Kadziulis 14+8reb+6ast, A.Juskevicius 13+3reb+3ast, S.Buterlevicius 12+2reb, V.Dabkus 12+2reb+1ast, P.Butkevicius 11+5reb+1ast, A.Labuckas 9+3reb
Zalgiris: R.Javtokas 18+3reb+1ast, P.Jankunas 16+7reb, M.Popovic 16+2reb+4ast, M.Kalnietis 14+9reb+6ast, T.Delininkaitis 10+2reb+1ast, D.Salenga 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 175267


Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game
 Laurynas MIKALAUSKAS
  Neptu.
  (205-F-85)
  Avg: 18
 1. Mikalauskas, Neptu.18.0 
 2. Mazeika, Neptunas15.2 
 3. Hughes, Pieno Z.15.0 
 4. Johnson, Naglis P.14.6 
 5. Valanciunas, Lietu.14.3 
 6. Cepukaitis, Lietka.13.9 
 7. Long, Siauliai13.6 
 8. Seibutis, Lietuv.13.4 
 9. Urbonas, Juventus13.3 
 10. Vasylius, Siauliai13.1 
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.7.1 
 4. McClure, Kedainiai7.0 
 5. Cepukaitis, Lietka.6.5 
 6. Petrukonis, Juven.6.4 
 7. Butkevicius, Rudup.6.4 
 8. Valeika, Neptunas6.0 
 9. Katelynas, Lietuv.5.8 
 10. Adomaitis, Kedain.5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Evaldas DAINYS
  Neptunas
  (180-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Dainys, Neptunas5.3 
 2. Kalnietis, Zalgiris4.9 
 3. Rice, Lietuvos.4.3 
 4. Kadziulis, Rudupis4.1 
 5. Peciukeviciu., Sak.4.0 
 6. Broadus, Siauliai3.8 
 7. Popovic, Zalgiris3.8 
 8. Maceina, Juventus3.6 
 9. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.3.5 
 10. Janavicius, Balta.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hughes, Pieno Z.2.1 
 2. Long, Siauliai2.0 
 3. Broadus, Siauliai1.7 
 4. Seibutis, Lietuv.1.6 
 5. Ginevicius, Kedain.1.6 
 6. Vasiliauskas, Liet.1.6 
 7. Roberts, Lietuvos.1.5 
 8. Dainys, Neptunas1.5 
 9. Salenga, Zalgiris1.4 
 10. Juskevicius, Rudu.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Valanciunas, Lietu.1.9 
 2. Johnson, Naglis P.1.8 
 3. Petrukonis, Juven.1.2 
 4. Staniulis, Lietkab.1.0 
 5. Zelionis, Rudupis0.9 
 6. McClure, Kedainiai0.9 
 7. Cepukaitis, Lietka.0.9 
 8. Samardziski, Lietu.0.9 
 9. Morgan, Pieno Z.0.9 
 10. Joneliunas, Sakal.0.7 



*****************************************************
  MALTA   


Athleta celebrate second straight win in title series - by Eurobasket News

Depiro - Athleta 50:90

Athleta registered the second consecutive victory in the championship series. They knocked down Depiro on the road to take 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series. Marko Todorovic (204-F/C-85) fired 22 points to pace the winners.
Athleta strongly entered the game taking a 22:12 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the gap in the second period. The visitors ensured a 45:27 halftime advantage. Athleta kept the hosts under pressure in the third quarter. The visitors stretched the margin to as many as 29 points with one period remaining 69:40. Athleta never looked back afterwards cruising to a comfortable win at the end. Dirk Schembri (193-F-85) provided 16 points, while Omar Said (177-PG-80) contributed 15 points for the winners. Abraham Portelli (79) answered with 21 points for Depiro. Nigel Sultana (191-F-91) netted 12 points in the loss.

Depiro: Abraham Portelli 21, Nigel Sultana 12
Athleta: Marko Todorovic 22, Dirk Schembri 16, Omar Said 15


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


The Superleague Round 10: Buducnost and Mornar ready for the play-offs - by Darko Pekic

In the last round of the Superleague there were no surprises. Both favorites won. Actually they dominated. After the unlucky defeat against Lovcen yesterday Mornar had to respond so that they could enter the play-offs in the winning mood. Teodo had no chance to make the play-offs but they did not want to finish the good season with a defeat and they fought hard. Teodo even won the first quarter but in the second quarter the things Mornar's players proved their quality and controlled the game with no problem. The final score was 88:70.

After the disappointing game against Lovcen, Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) bounced back and scored 15 points for the home team. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) followed him with 14 and Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) added 13 points. For the guests Nikola Rondovic (207-F-91, agency: Interperformances), who was born and raised in Bar was very inspired against his former team. He scored 27 points.

Buducnost really crashed Sutjeska in Podgorica. The club from Niksic had no chance against the experienced Adriatic League member and they lost the game by 47 points (!!)-100:53. Buducnost started the game like a champion and after the first quarter there was nothing to talk about (31-8 for Buducnost). The rest of the match was just a practice match for future challanges. Every member of Buducnost scored tonight, including the young Danilo Nikolic (201-C-93). However, the top scorer was Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) with 18 points. In Sutjeska only Vladan Jocovic (211-C-82) performed like he is used to. He scored 16 points.

In the playoffs Buducnost will face Lovcen while Mornar and Sutjeska will fight for the other place in the Finals


MNE S-League : Buducnost crashed Sutjeska in Podgorica, Mornar win against Teodo - by Dragan Scepanovic

Buducnost Voli - Sutjeska 100:53
Podgorica - SC Moraca.Spect: 200.Reff: Sutulovic (Podgorica), Lepetic (Herceg Novi), Dragojevic (Podgorica).By Q.: 31:8, 25:21, 18:11, 26:13.
Buducnost Voli: Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) 18, M. Popovic 11, Milosevic 11, Krstovic 6, Radovic 2, Vitkovac 11, Dubljevic 7, Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) 11, Ivanovic 5, Anderson 12, Nikolic 1, Mugosa 5.
Sutjeska: Kovac 4, Zarubica, Vranjes, Jovanovic 12, Grabovica, Popovic 4, Zarko Dragicevic (188-G-81), Jocovic 16, Gajovic 3, Kuveljic 12, Pejovic, Krivokapic 2.

Mornar - Teodo 88:70
Bar - SC Topolica.Spect: 300. Reff: Ognjen Jokic, Vladan Sundic and Nikica Popovic (Podgorica).By Q.: 15:20, 31:19, 21:14, 21:17
Mornar: Pajovic 7, Damjanovic 2, Kasalica 2, Ivanovic 10, Skot 7, Jelenic 13, Radosavljevic, Mikovic, Pavic 14, Vujosevic 9, Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) 9, Singlteri 15.
Teodo: Marko Mijovic (188-G-87) 7, Radonjic, Danilovic, Milosevic, Aleksandar Radulovic (207-C-84) 11, Pekic 11, Marko Calic (195-G/F-86) 6, Starovlah, Subotic 3, Rondovic 27, Stancic, Marko Ljujic 5.

Standings - 1B

1B First B League Standings
 1. Ibar Rozaje 14-4
 2. Centar BP 13-5
 3. Un.Mediteran 12-6
 4. S.Centar 12-6
 5. Rudar 9-9
 6. Gorstak 8-10
 7. Berane 2010 7-11
 8. Kotor 7-11
 9. Zeta 6-12
 10. Pljevlja 2-16


Nikola Pekovic has been Wolves' reliable force - by Eurobasket News

Nikola Pekovic (6'11''-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) is Rick Adelman's best student.

Adelman says it, Adelman needs it, Pekovic does it. That's become the theme of the Timberwolves' big man's breakout season this year, as he's been the only player to truly capitalize on the opportunities he was given. And, as Adelman pointed out Sunday, he's also one of few players on the team who's come back strong from an injury this season. You're never sure who you're going to get when a player comes back from being hurt, Adelman said recently, but Pekovic has convinced his coach and teammates that nothing has changed since he returned from a bout with bone spurs in his ankle and bronchitis.

'He's been solid right on through, even after when he came back after his injury,' Adelman said. 'He was slowed a little bit, but right now he's playing like he was before.'

The 'slowed' Pekovic who Adelman described has nevertheless averaged 14.5 points and 6.9 rebounds since returning on April 2, down from 17.4 points and 8.5 rebounds in March. His scoring is still up from his season average of 13.8 points and 7.3 rebounds, and Pekovic has looked like the breakout player he was in February in recent games.

Against Detroit on Thursday, Pekovic scored 23 points good for just more than a quarter of the team's 91 total points and he was the Timberwolves' leading scorer on Sunday with 19 points. That's notable for a healthy player, and the fact that Pekovic is doing it while suffering the lingering effects of those bone spurs, delaying surgery until the offseason, makes it all the more remarkable. It also suggests that he should be able to return strong next season, which will be crucial in the team's next attempt at a playoff run.

'I think he's had a great year and gives us a lot of hope at that position for the future,' Adelman said.

Pekovic's name has entered the conversation for the NBA's Most Improved Player award, and looking back at the list of players who've received the honor in recent years, it's hard to find anyone who went from unknown to the league's sixth-best scoring center in the matter of a few months. The award doesn't guarantee future success just look at past winners like Aaron Brooks and Pekovic may not end up as this year's recipient, but to enter that conversation is a major feat for someone who just last season averaged only 5.5 points and 3.0 rebounds.

Pekovic may not have gotten the recognition he deserved on a national platform this season no All-Star invite, ridiculous plays on his last name that stuck only in Minnesota but that snub matters little in the face of what he's done for the Timberwolves this season. Without Pekovic, they'd still likely be relying on Darko Milicic, who seems to have lost his will to play. Otherwise, the position would have belonged to Brad Miller, a 36-year-old veteran who's slowed after offseason microfracture surgery on his knee, or been a tag-team effort between the unpredictable Derrick Williams and Anthony Tolliver.

None of those options sound ideal, but going into this season, Pekovic was something of a nonfactor in the team's game plan. To think that those options might have been more realistic than the 7-footer whom the team and its fans have come to love shows just how much difference a few months can make. However, a quick conversation with Pekovic reveals that he has something beyond just physical skills that pushed him into the position he's in today.

He wants it. He wants to win, to compete, to play basketball to the extent of his abilities, and he can't imagine feeling any other way.

'I mean, everybody wants to win,' Pekovic said. 'That's why we play basketball. That's why we are doing this, everything with the sport. If you don't want to play basketball, if you don't want to win, go work at the office. Sit at a table and do whatever.'

The Timberwolves didn't need flash this season. They didn't need a celebrity phenomenon. In the face of injuries that were eventually the team's knockout blow, they needed stability. They needed a workhorse, and that's what they got in Pekovic. As Adelman said repeatedly, the opportunities were there all season for role players to transition into larger presences, and Pekovic was the only member to the team to do so. He's the sole player who won a starting role midseason through hard work rather than through injuries or a lack of alternatives see: Martell Webster and he's been rewarded with the dedication of a fan base.

On Sunday night, just after Pekovic had completed a three-point play to give Minnesota a one-point lead with 1:28 remaining in the game, the Timberwolves called a timeout. A minute later, as the teams took the court, the Jumbotron flashed to Pekovic, the beard and the tattoos and the towering height, as if to suggest he might be the team's best shot. It was in part because of Kevin Love's absence, but was regardless an acknowledgement of all he's become to Minnesota in just a short period of time.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsnorth.com


Sasha Pavlovic rallies Celtics to 78-66 win over Heat - by Eurobasket News

With much more to lose in potential injuries than gain with another victory, the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat let their reserves decide the second-to-last game of the regular season.

Rest and recovery were of much greater importance as both teams looked ahead to the postseason and patched together lineups that hardly resembled last year's second-round playoff series.

The result was sloppy at times, but turned into a relatively even matchup before the seldom-used Celtics rallied for a 78-66 win over the starless Heat on Tuesday night.

Sasha Pavlovic (200-F/G-83) led Boston with a season-high 16 points, scoring 12 in the fourth quarter as the Celtics pulled away by shooting 50 percent (11 for 22) in the period and forcing Miami into eight of its season-high 25 turnovers.

'Well, someone had to win the game and we did, which was really nice,' Boston coach Doc Rivers said. 'You know, these games are still important, probably for both teams.'

But not important enough to risk anybody's playoff status.

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh were out for the Heat. Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo didn't play for the Celtics.

Rivers said Rondo and Garnett should be back in the lineup on Thursday when Boston hosts Milwaukee in the final game of the regular season. By rallying for a win Tuesday, the Celtics locked into the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference as a division winner can still get home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs against Atlanta with another victory on Thursday and a loss by Hawks. Atlanta heads into the season finale with a one-game lead but Boston won the season series.

The Celtics would prefer to open the playoffs on the road with a healthy lineup than be back at home with Rondo (back), Garnett (hip flexor) or Allen (bone spurs) still hobbled by injuries.

'We'll see,' Rivers said. 'It would be nice to put some more pressure and force Atlanta to have to win.'

Anyone who bought a ticket to this game months ago, anticipating an Eastern Conference showdown was disappointed. Instead, it was the Heat JV taking on the Celtics Lite.

Bosh didn't dress again because of a left hamstring strain. James and Wade were still in warmups and didn't come to the bench until after the starting lineups were announced and although they were listed as active, they never entered the game.

Instead of trying to catch Chicago for the top seed in the East, the Heat are now locked in at No. 2.

'We wanted to make sure going into the last week with a quick turnaround that we were ready for this weekend,' Miami coach Eric Spoelstra said. 'We had legitimate injuries. We weren't just sitting guys.'

Dexter Pittman had 12 points, James Jones scored 11 and Udonis Haslem grabbed 13 rebounds for the Heat, whose 25 turnovers were a season high. Miami failed to score 20 in any quarter and had just 16 in each of the final two periods.

'We made too many turnovers and they capitalized on them,' Jones said. 'We did some good things, but just not enough so we are locked into the second seed and we are focused on trying to correct some of our mistakes as we move into the playoffs.'

Marquis Daniels finished with 13 points, Brandon Bass had eight points and eight rebounds for the Celtics. Paul Pierce finished with eight points. He started the game, but sat out the fourth quarter while Pavlovic thrilled the remaining fans as the Celtics improved to 3-1 against the Heat this season.

'I started kid of slow in the first half. Doc was on me about that,' said Pavlovic, who 0 for 2 while going scoreless in the first half. 'I just cam out in the second half and played as hard as I could defensively. Whenever I had an open shot, I just took it.'

Pavlovic was 5 for 6 in the fourth quarter, hitting two 3s while scoring 12.

The Celtics had almost as many turnovers (7) as points (10) in the first quarter and failed to score until a little past the midpoint of the opening period. But after the sloppy start, Boston's patchwork lineup came together in the third quarter, tying it with a 10-0 run late and then outscoring the Heat 10-4 to start the fourth.

'It wasn't a pretty game obviously, with 25 turnovers,' Spoelstra said. 'However we got to that point, we were still tied halfway through the fourth quarter. It just went from there.'

Sean Williams hit two free throws to put Boston up 58-54, then Pavlovic pulled up with a baseline jumper for a 60-54 lead with 6:35 remaining and Miami called a time out.

Pavlovic continued to pick apart the Heat, driving for a dunk that put the Celtics up 62-56, then hitting a 3-pointer to stretch the lead to nine with 4:45 left.

Pavlovic's previous high for the season was 10, two fewer than he scored in the final quarter.

Pierce hit a jumper, fed Bass with a pass under the basket for a dunk and then Pavlovic hit a jumper to get the Celtics started on a 10-0 run that tied it at 46-all late in the third quarter. It was tied at 50 entering the fourth. Daniels stole the ball from Juwan Howard and took it uncontested for a dunk that put the Celtics up 54-52, Boston's first lead since 18-17 in the second quarter.

The Celtics are at home Thursday against Milwaukee while the Heat close out the regular season at Washington

Haslem and Mario Chalmers were the only regular Miami starters while Pierce and Bass were Boston normal starters in the opening lineup.

Courtesy of www.chron.com


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


Tuesday's games review (5): Jazz drop Suns 100-88, secure playoff spot - by Eurobasket News

Boston C. - Miami Heat 78-66
With much more to lose in potential injuries than gain with another victory, the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat let their reserves decide the second-to-last game of the regular season. Rest and recovery were of much greater importance as both teams looked ahead to the postseason and patched together lineups that hardly resembled last year's second-round playoff series. The result was sloppy at times, but turned into a relatively even matchup before the seldom-used Celtics rallied for a 78-66 win over the starless Heat on Tuesday night. Sasha Pavlovic (6'7''-F/G-83) led Boston with a season-high 16 points, scoring 12 in the fourth quarter as the Celtics pulled away by shooting 50 percent (11 for 22) in the period and forcing Miami into eight of its season-high 25 turnovers. 'Well, someone had to win the game and we did, which was really nice,' Boston coach Doc Rivers said. 'You know, these games are still important, probably for both teams.' But not important enough to risk anybody's playoff status. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh were out for the Heat. Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo didn't play for the Celtics. Rivers said Rondo and Garnett should be back in the lineup on Thursday when Boston hosts Milwaukee in the final game of the regular season. By rallying for a win Tuesday, the Celtics - locked into the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference as a division winner - can still get home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs against Atlanta with another victory on Thursday and a loss by Hawks. Atlanta heads into the season finale with a one-game lead but Boston won the season series. The Celtics would prefer to open the playoffs on the road with a healthy lineup than be back at home with Rondo (back), Garnett (hip flexor) or Allen (bone spurs) still hobbled by injuries. 'We'll see,' Rivers said. 'It would be nice to put some more pressure and force Atlanta to have to win.' Anyone who bought a ticket to this game months ago, anticipating an Eastern Conference showdown was disappointed. Instead, it was the Heat JV taking on the Celtics Lite. Bosh didn't dress again because of a left hamstring strain. James and Wade were still in warmups and didn't come to the bench until after the starting lineups were announced and although they were listed as active, they never entered the game. Instead of trying to catch Chicago for the top seed in the East, the Heat are now locked in at No. 2. 'We wanted to make sure going into the last week with a quick turnaround that we were ready for this weekend,' Miami coach Eric Spoelstra said. 'We had legitimate injuries. We weren't just sitting guys.' Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, college: Texas) had 12 points, James Jones scored 11 and Udonis Haslem grabbed 13 rebounds for the Heat, whose 25 turnovers were a season high. Miami failed to score 20 in any quarter and had just 16 in each of the final two periods. 'We made too many turnovers and they capitalized on them,' Jones said. 'We did some good things, but just not enough so we are locked into the second seed and we are focused on trying to correct some of our mistakes as we move into the playoffs.' Marquis Daniels finished with 13 points, Brandon Bass had eight points and eight rebounds for the Celtics. Paul Pierce finished with eight points. He started the game, but sat out the fourth quarter while Pavlovic thrilled the remaining fans as the Celtics improved to 3-1 against the Heat this season. 'I started kid of slow in the first half. Doc was on me about that,' said Pavlovic, who 0 for 2 while going scoreless in the first half. 'I just cam out in the second half and played as hard as I could defensively. Whenever I had an open shot, I just took it.' Pavlovic was 5 for 6 in the fourth quarter, hitting two 3s while scoring 12. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Utah Jazz - Phoenix Suns 100-88
Paul Millsap (6'7''-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech) scored 26 points and Al Jefferson (6'10''-F/C-85) went on a personal 8-0 fourth-quarter run as the Utah Jazz defeated the Phoenix Suns 100-88 Tuesday night to secure a Western Conference playoff spot. The victory halted Utah's seven-game losing streak to the Suns, dating to March 2010. Jared Dudley and Michael Redd scored 15 apiece for Phoenix, and Hakim Warrick had 12 for the Suns, who were without forward Channing Frye because of a shoulder injury. The Suns won the season series but can't catch the Jazz with just one game remaining. Utah can still claim the No. 7 seed if Denver loses its final two games. The Suns trailed 85-80 when Jefferson scored eight straight to put the game out of reach. Jefferson finished with 18 points and 16 rebounds and is headed back to the playoffs for the first time since his 2005 rookie season. He raised his right index finger skyward then punched the air as the final buzzer sounded. Jefferson called Tuesday's game the biggest of his career. He didn't disappoint, spinning on the baseline for a dunk then making an 18-footer to start his personal run late in the fourth. He also had two of Utah's eight blocked shots. The Jazz return to the playoffs after missing out last year in a season that saw Hall of Fame coach Jerry Sloan abruptly resign Feb. 10, 2011, and the team trade superstar point guard Deron Williams two weeks later. They did it despite being two games under .500 after a March 14 loss at Phoenix, playing lineups jumbled by injuries and by giving their under-21 players plenty of playing time. Utah also has played seven overtime games, including a double-overtime loss to Toronto, triple-overtime win over Dallas and quadruple-overtime loss in Atlanta. Seventeen other games have been decided by five points or fewer. The Jazz go into the playoffs with seven of their 14 players age 26 or younger, including four who are 21 or younger - Gordon Hayward, Derrick Favors, Enes Kanter and Alec Burks. Though young, they are on a roll. Tuesday's win was their fourth straight and they close out the regular season Thursday at home against a Portland team they already have beaten three times. Phoenix's regular-season finale at home against San Antonio on Wednesday could be Steve Nash's final game for the Suns. The two-time NBA MVP and eight-time All-Star will become a free agent this summer and is reportedly seeking a three-year deal. The Jazz led by 10 points early in the third quarter after Jefferson's 17-foot jumper and were still ahead 58-50 on a dunk by Millsap following Hayward's steal. Jefferson headed to the locker room with 7:30 left in the quarter to get two stitches above his left eye following a collision with Hakim Warrick. But he was back four minutes later just as Favors was picking up his fourth personal. Consecutive buckets by Warrick, Dudley and Nash got the Suns to 67-66, only to see rookie Alec Burks hit a 3-pointer and make a fast-break layup. Utah took a 73-68 lead into the fourth. The Jazz led 49-42 at halftime thanks to a 34-20 advantage on points in the paint, 20-8 edge on the fast break and 8-3 edge in blocked shots - including five by Favors. Three-point shooting by Shannon Brown and Redd kept the Suns close early The Jazz led 25-19 after one, fueled by Millsap's 5-of-6 shooting and 11 points. Utah closed the quarter on a 6-0 run sparked by Josh Howard, active for the first time after missing 18 games because of left knee surgery. He entered with 2:43 left and hit his first two shots. Suns forward Grant Hill was playing for the first time in five games after re-injuring his right knee, but started 0 for 3 for the Suns. The Suns surged ahead 27-25 in the second, scoring the first eight points of the quarter while the Jazz missed their first seven shots. Utah then went with its big-three lineup, with Kanter at center, Favors at power forward and Millsap at small forward. The lineup produced an 8-0 Utah run. After Jefferson subbed back in for Kanter, he and Favors had three blocks in a 54-second span as the Jazz jumped ahead 39-31. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Atlanta H. - LA Clippers 109-102
Joe Johnson (6'7''-G-81, college: Arkansas) scored 28 points, including a wild 3-pointer in the final minute, and the Atlanta Hawks held on for a 109-102 victory over the Clippers on Tuesday night, moving a step closer to wrapping up home-court in the first round of the playoffs. Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) scored a season-high 36 points, while Chris Paul added 34 in a back-and-forth game that was never in double figures until the Hawks went on a 15-2 run at the end of the third quarter, sparked by Jeff Teague and Josh Smith. Johnson clinched it with a pair of 3s, knocking down a desperation shot with 38 seconds remaining and the shot clock running down. He threw up a two-handed heave that somehow banked in, giving the Hawks a 103-96 lead. *Courtesy of www.ocregister.com

Oklah.City T. - Sacramento K. 118-110
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 32 points, reserve Daequan Cook (6'5''-G-87, college: Ohio St.) had all 19 of his points in the fourth quarter and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Sacramento Kings 118-110 on Tuesday night to win their first game since top bench player James Harden took an elbow to the head. Durant extended his lead in a tight NBA scoring race with the Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant despite sitting out the entire fourth quarter in a close game. Durant is averaging 27.97 points per game to Bryant's 27.86 with each having one game left. Cook filled Harden's void, scoring Oklahoma City's first 14 points of the final period to put the Thunder ahead for the first time since the first quarter. DeMarcus Cousins, who was allowed to play only after his 13th technical foul was rescinded earlier in the day, led Sacramento with 32 points. With the Thunder locked into the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference playoffs, coach Scott Brooks held his starters out in the fourth quarter even though it was a four-point game after three. Cook wiped away that deficit immediately with a jumper and a 3-pointer, and ably filled Harden's usual role as the big scorer off the bench. Harden averages 16.8 points, best among NBA reserves. Harden suffered a concussion Sunday when he was elbowed in the back of the head by the Lakers' Metta World Peace, formerly Ron Artest, and didn't pass league-mandated tests that would have allowed him to return and play. The team has him listed as day-to-day and it's unknown if he'll be ready in time for the start of the playoffs this weekend. The NBA suspended World Peace seven games for elbowing Harden. The Kings were without leading scorer Marcus Thornton for the third straight game with a left quad contusion, and reserve Terrence Williams was out sick. Travis Outlaw moved into the starting lineup and scored a season-high 20 points - only his fourth game in double figures this season. Jason Thompson scored 22, Tyreke Evans had 18 and Isaiah Thomas 11 as all five Sacramento starters hit double figures. It still wasn't enough down the stretch. Royal Ivey put Oklahoma City ahead to stay with a long jumper from the left side with 3 minutes left, and Cook's 3-pointer in transition extended the lead to 114-107 with 44.9 seconds left. Cole Aldrich hit all four of his free throws to close it out. Sacramento made 18 of its 22 shots (82 percent) in the first quarter to get out to a 40-35 lead after Isaiah Thomas' buzzer-beating 3-pointer. It was the most points allowed by Oklahoma City in any quarter this season. The Kings followed that by scoring 10 of the first 12 points in the second quarter to build a 50-37 lead following Jason Thompson's three-point play, and Sacramento hit the half-century mark less than 15 minutes into the game. Cousins hit a hook shot and a two-handed slam to get the Kings going again after Oklahoma City had closed to 59-57 at halftime, sparking a 10-0 run that pushed the lead back out to 13. Oklahoma City then scored the next nine points to close the gap to 77-73 after Durant's 3-pointer. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Golde State W. - N.Orleans H. 81-83
Golden State's Chris Wright (6'8''-F-88, college: Dayton) was called for goaltending on Marco Belinelli's layup with 1.5 seconds remaining, and the New Orleans Hornets beat the Warriors 83-81 Tuesday night. Greivis Vazquez blocked Charles Jenkins' layup to start a fast break in the final seconds. He pushed the ball ahead to a wide-open Belinelli, whose layup touched the backboard and was on its way down before Wright hustled over for the illegal swat. In an odd scene, many Warriors fans were actually cheering for the Hornets. Golden State has to finish in the bottom seven of the league after the draft lottery to keep its protected first-round pick, acquired by Utah in a previous trade. The Warriors are eighth worst in the league entering Thursday night's season finale at home against San Antonio. Warriors rookie Klay Thompson had a team-high 16 points through three quarters but was benched for the fourth in a curious move by rookie coach Mark Jackson. Jeremy Tyler, who fouled out with about 3 minutes left, finished with 13 points and eight rebounds for Golden State - still in position to tie Toronto or New Jersey for the seventh-worst record. The Raptors and Nets play each other Thursday. If Golden State is tied with either, the league holds a drawing to decide draft position. Belinelli, sent to Toronto in exchange for Devean George in 2009 after two seasons at Golden State, scored 23 points and Gustavo Ayon (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Duran International, college: San Jose St.) had 13 points and seven rebounds for the Hornets, who began Tuesday last in the Western Conference and third-worst in the NBA. Golden State scored the game's first eight points and seemed on its way to a rare runaway win. Not that many here wanted it. Instead, Belinelli boosted the Bay Area's basketball-starved base more than he ever did as a member of the Warriors, giving the home fans something most of them have wanted for more than a month: losses to improve position in the NBA draft lottery. He scored 14 in the first half to tie the score at 43-all. Belinelli shot only 2 of 5 in the third quarter and the Warriors went ahead 64-61 entering the fourth. After Golden State went ahead by seven, Belinelli made a 3-pointer and Vazquez followed with a running layup to tie the score at 81-all. Vazquez then blocked Jenkins to start the winning break, keeping Golden State in the hunt for a high first-round pick. That's about all that was left to decide between these two bottomdwellers. With only nine active players on each side, the two teams had a long injury list than starting lineups. The Warriors played without David Lee (strained groin and stress reaction), Andris Biedrins (mild concussion) and backup point guard Nate Robinson (right hamstring). Andrew Bogut (fractured left ankle) and Stephen Curry (sprained right ankle) have long been out for the season and are scheduled for arthroscopic surgeries this week. That has forced Jackson - who started all three of the team's draft picks this season along with reserve Mickell Gladness, who was originally signed to a 10-day contract in late March, and veteran Richard Jefferson - to refute questions about the franchise intentionally losing to protect its high first-round draft pick. The Hornets were without Eric Gordon (back), Chris Kaman (bruised lower leg), Jason Smith (sprained left ankle) and Emeka Okafor (sore left knee). Trevor Ariza already had been excused from the team's final road trip. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


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  NCAA1   


Baylor freshman Miller declares for NBA Draft - by Eurobasket News

Baylor freshman Quincy Miller-Scott (6'9''-F-92) will forgo his final three years of eligibility and declare for the 2012 NBA Draft, head coach Scott Drew announced Tuesday.

Miller had announced his intention to remain at the university two weeks earlier at a non-conference baseball game at Baylor Ballpark but the 2012 Big 12 Co-Freshman of the year had a change of heart.

'In the days following his initial announcement to return to Baylor for his sophomore season,' Drew said in a statement, 'we were able to gather more information and Quincy was able to reflect on his decision with his family.

'After receiving the full support of the coaching staff, Quincy thought it was in his and his family's best interest to declare for the 2012 NBA Draft,' Drew continued. 'Baylor Nation thanks Quincy for providing us with an outstanding season to remember and we will miss his out-going personality.'

Miller averaged 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds, helping the Bears to a school- record 30 wins and a trip to the NCAA Elite Eight in his only season at Baylor.

The Chicago native joins teammate Perry Jones III, who declared for the NBA Draft earlier this month.

Courtesy of www.canada.com


FIU fallout: Forward Dominique Ferguson entering NBA draft after transfer requests denied - by Eurobasket News

Florida International forward Dominique Ferguson (6'9''-F) announced Tuesday that he was entering the NBA draft, saying hes unhappy about the firing of Isiah Thomas and unable to get permission to talk to other schools.

Ferguson told The Associated Press that his request to be released from his scholarship was denied by Pete Garcia, the schools executive director of sports and entertainment. A subsequent appeal process that Ferguson said included a meeting with university President Mark Rosenberg also did not bring the release he sought.

The school had no immediate response to a request for comment.

Its been very confusing, Ferguson said. Im getting through all this mess. Its a big mess going on right now.

In two seasons at FIU, the 6-foot-9, 210-pound forward averaged 8.0 points and 5.6 rebounds.

Several FIU players say they are considering transfers because of Thomas firing. FIU hired former Louisville associate head coach Richard Pitino to replace Thomas last week, and when he was introduced to the campus community, Pitino acknowledged that staying at the school may not be a good fit for everyone on the roster he inherited.

Once considered a top-20 high school prospect, Ferguson originally committed to playing at Kentucky. He made a surprising change of heart after the Wildcats fired Billy Gillispie in 2009, turning down offers to play for some of college basketballs most storied programs. Kentucky still wanted him, as did major schools like Indiana and Louisville. Ferguson said he met both Cardinals coach Rick Pitino and Richard Pitino a former assistant under his dad before taking over for Thomas on the recruiting trail.

I wanted to play for Isiah Thomas, Ferguson said.

And with that no longer an option, Ferguson wanted out of FIU.

Ferguson said he cited academic, family and basketball reasons for wanting to transfer to a school closer to home. A native of Indianapolis, Ferguson said he had seen his family five times in the past three years and that he told the appeals board he needed a better support system.

After much discussion with my family and support base we have decided to hire an agent and attempt to play professionally in the states or overseas, Ferguson wrote in a news release announcing the decision.

Ferguson said he submitted the paperwork Tuesday. Early entry candidates have until Sunday to make themselves eligible for the June 28 draft.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Frank Martin says he didn't run away from Kansas State - by Eurobasket News

Frank Martin (agency: KMG Sports Management) said he didn't leave Kansas State because of problems with Wildcat officials or administrators.

The new Gamecocks basketball coach said his team at Kansas State was on the rise and poised to continue one of the most successful runs in school history. But Martin said the opportunity at South Carolina was too good to pass up.

Martin spoke with The Associated Press on Tuesday. He has said he and Kansas State athletic director John Currie parted on good terms. Martin said it was the passion he felt from Gamecock leaders to compete at the highest levels that influenced his decision.

Martin also said moving to the East Coast was more convenient for seeing family in his hometown of Miami and his wife Anya's home of New York City.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


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  NEW ZEALAND   


CJ Bruton leads NZ Breakers to NBL title - by Eurobasket News

Breakers - Wildcats 79-73
CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) now has five NBL titles, but winning one against his first team, one his father helped build, means a lot to him. The New Zealand Breakers guard was named the most valuable player of the NBL finals series after scoring two vital three-pointers in the final two minutes of the deciding match against the Perth Wildcats. They gave the Breakers enough of a cushion to help them win an exciting final match 79-73, securing back-to-back NBL titles for the Auckland franchise. Bruton has won two titles with the Sydney Kings, one with the Brisbane Bullets and now two with the Breakers. But he has fond memories of the Wildcats, a team his father Calvin helped build and one which he began his professional basketball career with. 'I look at Perth in '87 with my father playing, and to watch that team grow and their fan base grow has been special,' he said. 'To come play at Vector Arena in front of 9000 people in a grand final against the team my father coached to their first championship ... I can't think of anything more special than that.' After the Breakers won the first final in overtime and the Wildcats took the second by one point, it would have been tough for the deciding game to match those but the two teams again produced a compelling and tight contest. The Breakers led by one point after the first quarter but went into halftime two points down after a stellar second quarter by Perth forward Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85, college: Loyola Mary). Defence dominated in the third quarter, the Breakers doing just enough to take a four-point lead going into the final quarter. Perth overcame a six-point gap to level the scores at 62 apiece before six points by Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.) gave the home team a four-point lead. Bruton, ever the big-match player, then scored two vital three-pointers, and a vital block by Thomas Abercrombie (198-F/G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Washington St.) on a Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, college: Arizona St.) lay-up ensured the Breakers would take the title. Doubts were expressed about Bruton's future after an injury to the 36-year-old's knee but he said it was 'a blessing in disguise'. 'I think the coach and the team gave me time to go away from the team and work on my body and they won five in a row,' he said. 'For me it's about pushing. I was still hungry, I still am, and I will continue to be that way while I continue to play.' Wildcats coach Rob Beveridge said Bruton 'was the difference'. 'The guy's going to be a hall of famer. The coaching staff has done a great job getting him through the season and he's a big game player,' Beveridge said. Beveridge said he was proud of his team's performance but was frustrated they let the Breakers score too many points from the three-point arc. 'We started the game giving up four threes... and down at the end CJ managed to put another dagger in. That's frustrating as a coach, going away from the game plan.' *Courtesy of www.smh.com.au


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  PHILIPPINES   


2012 PBA Commissioners Cup Finals Roundup: Game 1 - by Enzo Flojo

B-MEG LLAMADOS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 88-82

On a night Talk N Text was mainly shooting blanks from the stripe, B-Meg chose an inopportune time to follow suit.

Good thing then that the Llamados still managed to put in a point here and there to escape with a victory Monday at the start of their PBA Commissioner's Cup championship duel at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Denzel Bowles and Donnell Harvey practically canceled each other out and it was PJ Simon bucking foul trouble to score eight of his 18 points during a crucial stretch that essentially enabled B-Meg to gain the head start in the best-of-seven series.

It was those bricks from the stripe that gnawed at B-Meg coach Tim Cone the most, and TNT counterpart Chot Reyes also cited it as the main reason following the game watched by close to 14,000 fans.

Despite such dismal charity shooting, TNT still managed to fight back from two early 14-point deficits, wrest control in the third period and bucked a field goal-less stretch in the fourth period to keep within striking distance.

Jimmy Alapag's triple even shoved the defending champions within 82-86, but that proved to be their last gasp as they went 0-for-3 and committed a turnover inside the final 44 seconds.

Cone could let out his sigh of relief only after the final buzzer has sounded, however, as James Yap and Marc Pingris could only manage splits in their respective final trips to the line.

Cone expects TnT to bounce back strong come Game 2 Wednesday, also at the Big Dome.

Bowles finished with 25 points and 11 rebounds while Joe Devance and Pingris added 11 each.

Before the series started, Reyes expressed his apprehension about B-Meg's depth and he was proven right when the likes of Mark Barroca, JC Intal, Yancy de Ocampo and even Rafi Reavis chipped in. Reavis wound up with a team-high 12 boards.

It was also Devance who buried B-Meg's lone triple for the night and it came during an 18-5 run during the first eight minutes of the fourth period that wiped out TnT's 67-62 lead and installed the Llamados on top to stay, 80-72.

Harvey also had 25 points to go with 13 rebounds, but Alapag and Ryan Reyes were the only other Texters who had double digit outputs.

With Bowles throwing his weight around the shaded lane and Simon, Pingris and Reavis lending ample help, B-Meg posted early leads of 28-14 and 30-16 and went into the halftime break with a 48-40 spread.

That proved flimsy enough during the third period that saw Larry Fonacier scattering seven points, Bowles committing five of his gamehigh seven turnovers and the Texters missing just three of 10 free throw attempts to outscore the Llamados, 27-13.

BML 88 - Bowles 25, Simon 18, Devance 11, Pingris 11, Yap 9, Barroca 4, Intal 3, Reavis 3, Urbiztondo 2, De Ocampo 2, Villanueva 0.
TNT 82 - Harvey 25, Alapag 12, Reyes 10, Fonacier 8, Williams 6, Dillinger 5, Castro 5, De Ocampo 5, Carey 4, Peek 2, Gamalinda 0, Aguilar 0.
QS: 25-14, 48-40, 62-67, 88-82

Source: Unless otherwise specified, game recaps were compressed and compiled from PBA.ph



Asean Basketball League Roundup: April 21-22, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

INDONESIA WARRIORS over AIRASIA PHILIPPINE PATRIOTS, 104-79
The Indonesia Warriors scored 35 points in the final quarter on their way to beating the AirAsia Philippine Patriots.

Anthony Johnson finished the game with 32 points and 9 rebounds, while Aldrech Ramos added 14 points and 8 rebounds, but no other Patriot managed to reach double digits while all five of the Warriors starters recorded double-digits this afternoon.

The Warriors two new players, Evan Brock and Stanley Pringle, put in impressive performances for their second game. Brock led the Warriors with 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Pringle finished with 22 points. Steven Thomas also had a double-double for the Warriors with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Allan Salangsang and Mario Wuysang added 13 points and 10 points respectively.

Al Vergara was back on the Patriots lineup after missing last weeks game due to dengue fever, but he only managed 2 points and 5 assists in 20 minutes.

This is the first time this season the Patriots have suffered consecutive losses. With this defeat, the Patriots moved to second position due to a tiebreaker with the San Miguel Beermen. They will try to bounce back when they host the Saigon Heat at the Ynares Sports Arena on Wednesday April 25.

The Patriots also played todays game with just one international import. As per an official statement from the team, their import, Chris Alexander, who debuted with the squad in their game against the San Miguel Beermen last week, left them in the lurch as he left the Philippines earlier this week without giving proper notice to the team. The AirAsia ABL will be investigating this matter as according to the rules and regulations of the league, the Patriots could be slapped with a fine as they have failed to play a game with two international imports on their squad.

The Warriors are still holding on to third place in the standings. Their next game will be at home in the Mahaka Square on April 28 when they host Chang Thailand Slammers.

INW 104- Brock 23, Pringle 22, Thomas 18, Salangsang 13, Wuysang 10, Canada 10, Prihantono 8
APP 79- Johson 32, Ramos 14, Laure 8, Raymundo 6, Wainwright 5, Fernandez 4, Adriano 4, Ybanez 2, Larong 2
QS: 25-20, 49-36, 69-64, 104-79

WESTPORTS MALAYSIA DRAGONS over SAIGON HEAT, 95-75
It was a crucial game for both the Dragons and the Heat as both teams were still looking to clinch their playoff berths. In the end, however, Brian Williamss return to the squad marked the end of the Dragons losing streak as they beat the Heat.

Williams made his much anticipated return into to the Dragons by finishing with 18 points and 16 rebounds in 26 minutes of play. Tiras Wade was the Dragons top scorer, however, finishing with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Patrick Cabahug also had a fantastic afternoon, recording 17 points and was 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.

Saigon Heats Jonathan Jones, however, was the leading scorer for the game, finishing with 31 points and 17 rebounds. Teammate Jahmar Thorpe narrowly missed out on a double-double and recorded 20 points and 9 rebounds. John Smith finished 15 points despite missing all four of his three point attempts.

The Heat continued their shooting struggles in this game, managing less than 40% from the field. They will also need their bench players to step up in their next few crucial outings leading into the playoffs as, apart from Jones, Thorpe and Smith, the rest of the Heat squad only managed 9 points collectively.

The Dragons snapped their losing run and solidified their current position at fourth on the standings.

WMD 95- Wade 25, Williams 18, Cabahug 17, Belasco 12, Batumalai 7, Loh 7, Pacana 6, Kuppusamy 3
SGH 75- Jones 30, Thorpe 20, Smith 15, Nguyen 2, Trieu 2
QS: 25-14, 59-40, 75-55, 95-75

SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN over CHANG THAILAND SLAMMERS, 103-76
The Beermens defense and great teamwork proved to be too much for the Chang Thailand Slammers to overcome as SMB finished the game with 29 assists to grab a big win at the Thai Japanese Association Gym. With this win, the Beermen are now at the top of the standings with 14 wins and 4 losses.

Nick Fazekas led all scoring with 22 points and 7 rebounds for the Beermen, who are now on a four-game winning streak. Chris Banchero added 15 points and 7 assists in his second game. Leo Avenido finished with 15 points and Duke Crews had 14.

Darongpan Apiromvilaichai had a breakout performance by finishing with 18 points for the Slammers. Calvin Williams had his sixth double-double of the season with 20 points and 17 rebounds, but he also had 8 turnovers for the Thais, who are now holding on to a very slim chance of going to the playoffs.

Chris Garnett added 14 points for the Slammers, who will be facing a must-win game on Saturday when they face the hot streaking Indonesia Warriors at Britama Arena.

SMB 103- Fazekas 22, Banchero 15, Avenido 15, Crews 14, Fernandez 10, Yap 7, Gonzales 7, Ferriols 6, Baguion 4, Dimaunahan 2, Fajardo 1
CTS 76- Williams 20, Apiromvilaichai 18, Garnett 14, Leynes 11, Lertmalaiporn 6, Angeles 5, Suttisin 2
QS: 26-26, 52-38, 79-56, 103-76

JOBSTREET.COM SINGAPORE SLINGERS over BANGKOK COBRAS, 95-78
The JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers came back after a three-week break to defeat the Bangkok Cobras, effectively strengthening their bid for a playoffs position as they now find themselves at solo fifth, only 2 points behind the Westports Malaysia Dragons.

Kyle Jeffers topped the scoring with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Teammate Louis Graham also recorded a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Jai Reyes was the top point contributor for the Cobras with 21 points, followed by Gentry Lewiss 15 and Marvin Cruzs 14. It was not a good game for Cobras import Travis George, who only finished with 9 points although he managed to grab 10 rebounds.

The Slingers found themselves in trouble in the final period and it did not help that Desmond Oh and Wong Wei Long both got their fifth fouls of the game early in the quarter. Capitalizing on the situation, the Cobras went on a stunning 13-point run with two minutes left on the clock to close the gap to just 6 points at 76 to 82. Unfortunately, they ran into some foul trouble at this point, enabling the Slingers to answer with their own 13-point run to close out the game.

Both teams will continue their bid for a playoffs position on Wednesday when the Slingers get a tough away game as they travel to the Philippines to face the currently top ranked San Miguel Beermen. The Cobras will play hosts at the Chulalongkorn University to the Westports Malaysia Dragons later on the same day.

SGS 95- Jeffers 25, Graham 21, Dulay 19, Wong 18, Canta 6, Lim 4, Oh 2
BKC 78- Reyes 21, Lewsi 15, Cruz 14, George 9, Wanna 8, Kruatiwa 6, Kongkum 5
QS: 35-20, 52-27, 72-48, 95-78

*Game Recaps compiled and compressed from AseanBasketballLeague.com



Sure-shot Simon leads B-MEG to game one win over TNT - by Eurobasket Center

B-Meg Llam. - Talk N Text 88-82
The B-MEG Llamados captured game one of the PBA Commissioners Cup Finals by out-running the normally up-tempo Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters and banking on the scintillating shooting of Peter Simon (186-G-82), eking out an 88-82 victory Monday at the Araneta Coliseum. The Llamados broke the game wide open early with a 17-3 run that turned an 8-11 deficit into a 25-14 first quarter advantage, with six different B-MEG players chipping in that stretch, capped by a Joe Devance score off an offensive board before the buzzer. 'I think we showed our depth today,' Llamados head coach Tim Cone said after the game. 'B-MEG is a really deep team. I'm just learning to how to use that depth.' Early offense by Raffy Reavis and JC Intal doubled TNT's output at the onset of the second period, 28-14, but the Texters slowly began to find their rhythm behind their big man Donnell Harvey (203-F/C-80, college: Florida), who had 11 of his 15 first-half points in the second quarter. Back-to-back conversions by the Talk 'N Text import had them within seven, 47-40, but Devance again gave B-MEG the last word, splitting charities to make it an eight-point lead headed into the break. Out of the intermission, and after first blood was drawn by James Yap, the defending champions reeled off a 12-4 run to creep within two points, only for the Llamados' import Denzel Bowles (208-F/C-89, college: JMU) to rock the rim with a thunderous slam, 56-52. TNT countered with a four-point play by All-Filipino Cup Finals MVP Larry Fonacier, knotting the game at 56-all. The Texters kept pouring it on, with Ryan Reyes (188-G-83, college: Cerritos JC) and Kelly Williams connecting from distance as well, snatching a five-point advantage with a quarter left, 67-62. But that turned out to be TNT's brightest spot in the game as they seemed drained to start the final period. B-MEG quickly rattled off five points to tie the game, and after a Harvey split at the line, the Llamados scored another seven to make it 74-68. At that point, Coach Cone began to slow down the game, countering the Talk 'N Text scores methodically. But still Talk 'N Text came on. A clutch triple by Jimmy Alapag (177-PG-77, college: CS San Bernar.) made it 80-75, and the man known as 'Mighty Mouse' canned another trey a few plays later to make it a four-point deficit, 39 seconds left. The Texters then got a golden opportunity after a fouled Bowles missed two charities with 28.5 seconds left, 86-82, but off a timeout they went for the quick three, and Ranidel De Ocampo's shot did not connect. After Yap halved his free throws to make it 87-82 with 20.2 remaining, Marc Pingris (195-C-81) came up with a crucial steal during the TNT possession, clinching the victory for B-MEG. Peter Simon dropped 18 points on the Texters on near-flawless 9-of-11 shooting. Denzel Bowles added a double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds, while the frontline of Marc Pingris and Joe Devance had 11 markers each, plus a combined nine boards. Rafi Reavis (203-C-77, college: Coppin St.) was a demon on the glass, finishing with a team-high 12 rebounds. Those caroms, togetther with that of Pingris and Devance, helped B-MEG get up and down the court, traditionally the strength of their opponents. The Llamados out-scored the Texters 14-11 in fast break points, an achievement given that they norm just nine on the run. Talk and Text drew a 25-13 performance from Donnell Harvey, but the support was not there to back him up. The starting backcourt of Jimmy Alapag and Ryan Reyes flourished with a total of 22 points, 12 rebounds and 11 dimes, but there was precious little beyond them. One big problem of the Texters was there inability to convert at the free throw line. Entering the game, they shot 70.65 percent from the stripe, a top-four clip in the league. Past opening tip though, TNT missed 20 out of their 36 charities, leading head coach Chot Reyes to say in the post-game presser, 'We were given free throws but we refused to accept them. 'If we made 50 percent of what we missed, we would have won.' Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday at the Big Dome. Cone and his Llamados will be shooting for back-to-back wins, but even he admits it will be a tough feat. 'To win back-to-back takes a special effort,' Cone said. Only Wednesday will tell if the Llamados have what their coach speaks of. - KBK, GMA News *Courtesy of www.pba-online.net


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  PUERTO RICO   


Brujos win first game on the road; Indios have number on Arecibo: - by Luis Modestti

Brujos de Guayama got their first win on the road in grand style by dominating Mets de Guaynabo 109-88.

Josh Powell (206-F-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) had 34 points and Al Thornton 31 for Brujos who are still alive for the playoffs with an 8-17 record. They are now 1-12 on the road.

They had control of the game from the start and never let go. Christopher Vega added 17 and Alex Galindo 14 to accompany the imports.

Guaynabo was led by Johwen Villegas who netted 22 points. They have lost five games in a row and have an 11-14 mark.

Meanwhile Indios de Mayaguez defeated Capitanes de Arecibo 83-78. Weyinmi Efejuku led the winners with 23 points and Patrick O'Bryant added 22.

Indios are 3-0 against the defending champions and are now 19-6.


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  RUSSIA   

Standings - Superleague A

PBL Standings
 1. CSKA 17-1 
 2. Khimky 15-3 
 3. Triumph 12-6 
 4. Lokomotiv 9-9 
 5. Spartak SP 9-9 
 6. Unics 8-10 
 7. Spartak-Prim. 8-10 
 8. Krasnie Krilya 7-11 
 9. N.Novgorod 3-15 
 10. Enisey 2-16 

Semi-Finals: Round 2

Apr. 29: Lokomotiv - CSKA 72-78
May. 5: Triumph - Khimky


CSKA won the Regular Season with 17-1 record - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in PBL just ended.

The game between third ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) and seventh ranked Spartak-Prim. (8-10) was the most important one in the last round on Sunday night. Triumph Lyubertsy was crushed by Spartak-Prim. in Vladivostok 105-59. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. The game without a history. Spartak-Prim. led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Triumph Lyubertsy's players. Guard Viktor Uskov (182-86) stepped up and scored 16 points and 5 assists for the winners and the former international guard Nikolay Padius (197-80) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was power forward Ivan Lazarev (210-91) with 14 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Spartak-Prim. moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Unics. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Moscow. First ranked host CSKA Moscow (17-1) smashed second-best Khimky (15-3) 91-72. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Khimky. The former international swingman Viktor Khryapa (204-82) nailed 14 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winning side and Milos Teodosic accounted for 8 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. International guard Vitaly Fridzon (195-85, agency: Alti Sport) came up with 10 points for Khimky in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CSKA Moscow have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 17-1 record. Khimky at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost.
Lokomotiv (#4) was upset in Kazan by seventh ranked Unics Kazan 101-75. The best player for the winners was Vladimir Veremeenko who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists (perfect from the field making all nine shots !!!). At the other side the best for losing team was Lionel Chalmers who recorded 21 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Unics Kazan. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Spartak-Prim. Lokomotiv lost their third game in a row. They keep the fourth position with nine games lost. They share it with Spartak SP.
PBL top team - CSKA Moscow (17-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed seventh ranked Krasnie Krilya (7-11) 98-63. It was a good game for Sammy Mejia who led his team to a victory with 20 points. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The victory was the thirteenth consecutive win for CSKA Moscow. Defending champion maintains first place with 17-1 record. Krasnie Krilya lost their sixth game in a row. They dropped to the eighth position with 11 games lost.

In the last two games of round 21 Spartak SP destroyed Enisey on the opponent's court 84-63. N.Novgorod unfortunately lost to Triumph in a home game 70-83.

CSKA - Krasnie Krilya 98-63

PBL top team - CSKA Moscow (17-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed seventh ranked Krasnie Krilya (7-11) 98-63. The game without a history. CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. It was a good game for Dominican guard Sammy Mejia (198-83, college: De Paul) who led his team to a victory with 20 points. The former international guard Alexey Shved (196-88, agency: Alti Sport) contributed with 13 points and 5 assists for the winners. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. Serbian power forward Dragan Labovic (207-87, agency: Alti Sport) answered with 15 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Brion Rush (186-84, college: Grambling St., agency: Beo Basket) added 9 points and 5 assists in the effort for Krasnie Krilya. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The victory was the thirteenth consecutive win for CSKA Moscow. Defending champion maintains first place with 17-1 record. Krasnie Krilya lost their sixth game in a row. They dropped to the eighth position with 11 games lost.
Top scorers:
Krasnie Krilya: D.Labovic 15+7reb+1ast, B.Rush 9+2reb+5ast, R.Alijevas 6+4reb+4ast, N.Balashov 6+4reb, A.Surovtsev 6+2reb+2ast, A.Dedushkin 4+1reb
CSKA: S.Mejia 20+2reb+2ast, V.Khryapa 16+5reb+1ast, A.Shved 13+4reb+5ast, A.Vorontsevich 12+2reb+1ast, E.Voronov 8+4reb+2ast, D.Lavrinovic 8+4reb+1ast
gschID: 151252


Spartak-Prim. - Triumph 105-59

The game between third ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) and seventh ranked Spartak-Prim. (8-10) was the most important one in the last round on Sunday night. Triumph Lyubertsy was crushed by Spartak-Prim. in Vladivostok 105-59. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. The game without a history. Spartak-Prim. led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Triumph Lyubertsy's players. Guard Viktor Uskov (182-86) stepped up and scored 16 points and 5 assists for the winners and the former international guard Nikolay Padius (197-80) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. Five Spartak-Prim. players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was power forward Ivan Lazarev (210-91) with 14 points and 5 rebounds and center Daniil Soloviev (211-87) scored 7 points and 9 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Spartak-Prim. moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Unics. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost.
Top scorers:
Triumph: I.Lazarev 14+5reb+1ast, A.Vikhrov 11+3reb+1ast, D.Soloviev 7+9reb, P.Kuryshkin 7+2reb+5ast, I.Rodionov 4+1reb, M.Kulagin 4+1reb
Spartak-Prim.: V.Uskov 16+1reb+5ast, A.Golyakhov 13+1reb+1ast, E.Baburin 13+2reb+2ast, N.Padius 13+2reb+4ast, T.Thomas 10+1reb+5ast, K.Nesterov 10+1reb+2ast
gschID: 151253


Enisey - Spartak SP 63-84

Very expected game when 10th ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk (2-16) was crushed at home by fifth ranked Spartak St.Petersburg (9-9) 84-63. It looked good early as Enisey Krasnoyarsk took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Spartak St.Petersburg had a 21-12 second period charge getting the lead and Enisey Krasnoyarsk was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 63-84. Spartak St.Petersburg forced 23 Enisey Krasnoyarsk turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Enisey Krasnoyarsk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American point guard Patrick Beverley (185-88, college: Arkansas) who led his team to a victory with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Valery Likhodey (205-86) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Five Spartak St.Petersburg players scored in double figures. Bosnian center Elmedin Kikanovic (211-88, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 17 points and 7 rebounds and Serbian point guard Marko Marinovic (183-83) added 10 points and 4 assists in the effort for Enisey Krasnoyarsk. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Spartak St.Petersburg moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Lokomotiv. Enisey Krasnoyarsk lost their third game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost.
Top scorers:
Enisey: E.Kikanovic 17+7reb, A.Komarovskiy 10+2reb+1ast, M.Marinovic 10+2reb+4ast, S.Toporov 8+1reb+1ast, P.Gromyko 6+3reb, V.Zaytsev 4+1reb
Spartak SP: P.Beverley 16+6reb+4ast, V.Zavoruev 16+5reb, V.Likhodey 15+7reb+2ast, A.Zozulin 12+3reb+1ast, M.Zupan 11+4reb, V.Dragicevic 6+4reb
gschID: 174870


CSKA - Khimky 91-72

The game between Top Four teams took place in Moscow. First ranked host CSKA Moscow (17-1) smashed second-best Khimky (15-3) 91-72. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Khimky. The game without a history. CSKA Moscow led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Khimky's 20 and made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. CSKA Moscow forced 22 Khimky turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. Khimky was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international swingman Viktor Khryapa (204-82) nailed 14 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winning side and Serbian guard Milos Teodosic (195-87) accounted for 8 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. International guard Vitaly Fridzon (195-85, agency: Alti Sport) came up with 10 points and American guard Chris Quinn (188-83, college: Notre Dame, agency: Priority Sports) added 11 points respectively for Khimky in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CSKA Moscow have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 17-1 record. Khimky at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost.
Top scorers:
Khimky: T.Kelati 12+1reb+1ast, C.Quinn 11+1reb+2ast, V.Fridzon 10+3reb+3ast, J.Adrien 9+5reb, E.Vyaltsev 7+3reb+1ast, M.Gelabale 7+4reb+1ast
CSKA: A.Shved 15+2reb+3ast, V.Khryapa 14+5reb+7ast, A.Kirilenko 12+3reb+1ast, A.Vorontsevich 10+1reb+1ast, R.Siskauskas 9+5reb+1ast, E.Voronov 9+1reb+1ast
gschID: 175325


Unics - Lokomotiv 101-75

Lokomotiv (#4) was upset in Kazan by seventh ranked Unics Kazan 101-75. The game without a history. Unics Kazan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 27-of-30 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game, while Lokomotiv only scored eleven points from the stripe. They outrebounded Lokomotiv 45-32 including a 37-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. Unics Kazan looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was naturalized Belarusian forward Vladimir Veremeenko (208-84, agency: RU-Basket Management) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists (perfect from the field making all nine shots !!!). American guard Terrell Lyday (190-79, college: BYU) chipped in 20 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Four Unics Kazan players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Lionel Chalmers (184-80, college: Xavier) who recorded 21 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and Polish forward Michal Ignerski (207-80, college: Mississippi St., agency: Stanley International) added 15 points respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Unics Kazan. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Spartak-Prim. Lokomotiv lost their third game in a row. They keep the fourth position with nine games lost. They share it with Spartak SP.
Top scorers:
Lokomotiv: L.Chalmers 21+5reb+6ast, N.Shabalkin 16+1reb, M.Ignerski 15+4reb+1ast, G.Shukhovtsov 7+4reb+1ast, M.Grigoryev 6+5reb+4ast, M.Kolyushkin 4+2reb
Unics: V.Veremeenko 23+10reb+4ast, T.Lyday 20+7reb+7ast, L.Greer 16+2reb, A.Yakovenko 15+10reb+1ast, K.McCarty 9+3reb, P.Samoylenko 5+4reb+6ast
gschID: 175326


N.Novgorod - Triumph 70-83

Very predictable result when third ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) defeated on the road 9th ranked BC Nizhny Novgorod (3-15) 83-70. BC Nizhny Novgorod was ahead by 5 points at the halftime before a 49-31 second half run of Triumph Lyubertsy. They made 22-of-24 charity shots (91.7 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by BC Nizhny Novgorod helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American point guard Tywain McKee (188-86, college: Coppin St.) who led his team to a victory with 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. His fellow American import forward Davon Jefferson (204-86, college: USC) contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Triumph Lyubertsy players scored in double figures. Slovenian power forward Primoz Brezec (216-79) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds and the former international Semen Antonov (202-89, agency: RU-Basket Management) added 20 points in the effort for BC Nizhny Novgorod. BC Nizhny Novgorod's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Triumph Lyubertsy. They maintain third place with 12-6 record having five points less than leader CSKA. BC Nizhny Novgorod at the other side keeps the ninth position with 15 games lost.
Top scorers:
N.Novgorod: S.Antonov 20+4reb+2ast, P.Brezec 19+9reb+1ast, I.Paunic 8+1reb+1ast, A.Ivanov 7+4reb+1ast, A.Pustahvar 7+4reb, D.Golovin 5+3reb+6ast
Triumph: D.Jefferson 20+6reb+3ast, T.McKee 19+8reb+5ast, S.Karasev 12+2reb+2ast, A.Kuzyakin 10+3ast, K.Landry 9+6reb, E.Valiev 7+4reb+1ast
gschID: 151251



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  SERBIA   


Hot prospect Nemanja Nedovic declares for 2012 NBA Draft - by Eurobasket News

Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) submitted his name to this year's NBA Draft. The Serbian hot prospect was named Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Most Improved Player of the Year -11. He was also named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 2nd Team -11. Nemanja Nedovic is a member of Crvena Zvezda. He appeared 7 times in Serbian league so far averaging 9.6 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists. His numbers in 22 Adriatic league games are 6.7 ppg, 1.5 apg and 1.4 rpg. Last season Nedovic exploded with 16.4 ppg, 4 apg and 1.9 rpg in 14 Serbian league games. In Adriatic league he added 10.8 ppg, 2.5 apg and 1.6 rpg. At U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao last summer Nedovic impressed with 19.6 ppg, 3.8 apg and 3.1 rpg. He also shined at U20 EuroBasket in Croatia two years ago. In 2009, Nedovic participated at the Adidas Nations Tournament in Dallas, TX (Team Europe). In the past, he played for U18 and U16 Serbia.


Milos Dimic gets MVP of the Round award in Superleague - by Eurobasket News

Milos Dimic (195-G-89) had an amazing evening in the last round for Radnicki Basket and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Round for round 8 (Superleague). The 22-year old guard had the game-high 31 points adding two rebounds and four assists for Radnicki Basket in his team's victory, helping them to crush BKK Radnicki (#6, 3-5) with 17-point margin 99-82. Radnicki Basket is placed at 4th position in Serbian Superleague with 5-3 record. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier. Dimic turned to be Radnicki Basket's top player in his first season with the team. He is in league's top in points (6th best: 16.7ppg) and averages solid 51.0% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American center David Simon (207-C-82) of Radnicki Kragujevac. Simon impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Radnicki K. cruised to a 76-64 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Vojvodina (#5, 4-4). Radnicki K.'s second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 6-2 record is not bad at all.

The third best performed player last round was Aleksandar Petrovic (204-C-87) of BKK Radnicki (#6). Petrovic scored 21 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Petrovic's great performance BKK Radnicki lost 82-99 to slightly higher-ranked Radnicki Basket (#4, 5-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. BKK Radnicki has 3-5 record. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Petrovic could try to bring BKK Radnicki's a little bit higher in the standings. Petrovic has individually a great season in Serbia. After 34 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.0rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Strahinja Milosevic (203-F-85) of Vojvodina - 16 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Mike Scott (203-F-86) of Radnicki K. - 17 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-C-85) of BKK Radnicki - 20 points and 4 rebounds
7. Ivan Smiljanic (198-F-89) of Radnicki Basket - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89) of Partizan - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) of Partizan - 13 points and 5 rebounds
10. Dejan Djokic (187-G-89) of Radnicki Basket - 15 points and 3 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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  SLOVENIA   


Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian Division II Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

All-Slovenian Division II 1st Team 2012
#s#
Blaz Lobe
Lobe
Boris Jersin
Jersin
Dejan Mlakar
Mlakar
Jure Erzen
Erzen
Milan Klepo
Klepo
#e#5

Player of the Year: Blaz Lobe (202-F/C-84) of Grosuplje
Guard of the Year: Boris Jersin (183-G-85) of Triglav Strazisce
Forward of the Year: Blaz Lobe (202-F/C-84) of Grosuplje
Center of the Year: Jure Erzen (203-C-75) of Sencur CP
Defensive Player of the Year: Matija Trampus (203-C-89) of Grosuplje
Coach of the Year: Tone Krump of Grosuplje

1st Team
G: Boris Jersin (183-85) of Triglav Strazisce
G: Dejan Mlakar (192-88) of Jance Prit
F/C: Blaz Lobe (202-84) of Grosuplje
C: Jure Erzen (203-75) of Sencur CP
C: Milan Klepo (211-80) of Postojna

2nd Team
C: Matija Trampus (203-89) of Grosuplje
F/C: Igor Spesic (204-83) of Radenska
G: David Moro (199-86) of Splosna plovba
G: Robert Abramovic (185-88) of Terme Olimia
G: Rok Perko (179-87) of Splosna plovba

Honorable Mention
Marko Antonijevic (189-G-81) of Grosuplje
Bostjan Sivka (200-F/C-76) of Konjice
Sanel Dzombic (198-G-78) of Hrastnik
Aljosa Remus (200-F-86) of Branik


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  SPAIN   


Knet Rioja extend David Mesa - by Eurobasket News

Knet Rioja Clavijo started to build the roster for the upcoming season. They renewed the contract of David Mesa (200-C-80). The centre joined the team back in 2010. He helped the team qualify from LEB Silver into LEB Gold in the first season. Eurobasket.com named David Mesa LEB Silver Player of the Year in 2011. Last season David Mesa averaged 8.5 points, 4.4 boards per game in LEB Gold. Previously the centre played for CB Tarragona, Algercias Almeria and Los Barrios. He was the member of Spanish U20 National Team back in 2001. David Mesa has been operated on his injured shoulder recently. He is expected to return to action at the beginning of the next season.


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  SWEDEN   


Basketligan Finals: Kings tie the score to 2-2 (best-of-seven) - by Eurobasket News

Sodertalje - Norrkoping 96-78

The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Norrkoping Dolphins managed to win second period 24-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Norrkoping Dolphins' 36 and made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Norrkoping Dolphins helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Dino Pita (192-88) who helped to win the game recording 28 points (made all of his seven free throws). Lithuanian forward Mantas Griskenas (200-85, college: Wichita St.) contributed with 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four Sodertalje Kings players scored in double figures. The former international guard Mikael Lindquist (193-83, agency: Court Side) replied with 8 points and 5 assists and Latvian point guard Edgard Jeromanovs (186-86) added 11 points in the effort for Norrkoping Dolphins. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Game Five - Thursday in Norrkoping.
Top scorers:
Sodertalje: D.Pita 28+2reb+2ast, M.Griskenas 20+8reb+2ast, K.Simms 15+8reb+1ast, J.Smith 12+2reb+4ast, M.Joseph 6+3reb+1ast, T.Borg 6+1reb
Norrkoping: E.Jeromanovs 11+2reb+3ast, M.Ringstrom 10+2reb+1ast, O.Ayuba 10+2reb, P.Balocka 9+3reb+1ast, M.Lindquist 8+4reb+5ast, P.Sakinis 8+1reb+1ast
gschID: 175339



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  SWITZERLAND   


New coach for Starwings Basket Regio Basel - by Luca Maffioli

Roland Pavloski has been hired as the new Head Coach of Starwings Basket Regio Basel. Pavloski was Assistant Coach of Birstal Starwings Basel (2005-2008) for three years. He replace Danijel Eric , head coach for two seasons. At the same time Reto Schwaiger (192-G/F-87), Roman Albrecht (208-C-90) and Miroslav Petkovic (183-G-88) will leave Starwings Basket Regio Basel due economical reasons.


LNA Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Monthey - Geneve Lions 71-74

Geneve Lions stole a road win and home advantage from Monthey. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 17-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Christopher Dunn (189-83, college: W.Virginia St., agency: Court Side) fired 22 points and 5 assists (made all of his eight free throws) for the winners. Naturalized Senegalese forward Jules Aw (200-86) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). American center Sean Finn (212-82, college: Dayton) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and the other American import swingman Ian Boylan (197-83, college: CS Northridge) added 7 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Four Monthey players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Geneve Lions: C.Dunn 22+4reb+5ast, T.Brown 19+2ast, J.Aw 14+7reb+2ast, S.Barnette 10+1reb+1ast, J.Jaunin 3+1reb, V.Buscaglia 2
Monthey: S.Finn 16+12reb, T.Smith 13+2reb+1ast, K.Parker 11+1reb+4ast, S.Louissaint 10+1reb+1ast, I.Boylan 7+6reb+4ast, M.Lukic 6+1reb
gschID: 175151


Lugano Tigers - Fribourg 78-66

Lugano Tigers celebrated the opening win in the series versus Fribourg. The game was mostly controlled by Lugano Tigers. Fribourg was better in fourth quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American-British point guard Rod Brown (186-78, college: W.Michigan, agency: Two Points) who helped to win the game recording 12 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. The former international guard Dusan Mladjan (199-86, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 20 points for the winners. American-British swingman Tarick Johnson (192-81, college: Campbell) answered with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and American-Jamaican forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's) added 15 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Fribourg. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Lugano Tigers: D.Mladjan 20+1reb, M.Abukar 16+3reb+1ast, R.Brown 12+5reb+8ast, E.Draughan 11+2reb+2ast, N.George 10+2reb, Z.Rakocevic 6+6reb
Fribourg: R.Yates 15+8reb+1ast, T.Johnson 15+5reb+6ast, J.Kazadi 12+6reb+2ast, K.Thomas 10+2reb+1ast, O.Vogt 7+8reb+1ast, B.Polyblank 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 175150



*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


SBL Round 3 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Pure Youth - Yulon Luxgen 81-67

Pure Youth retained the lead in the series against Yulon Luxgen. Yulon Luxgen was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Pure Youth shot 24 for 35 from the free-throw line, while Yulon Luxgen only scored five points from the stripe. Yulon Luxgen was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American power forward Quincy Davis (206-83, college: Tulane) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international swingman Hsin-An Chen (196-80) contributed with 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American forward Kevin Johnson (201-84, college: Humboldt St., agency: Hart Sports Mngm) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and guard Chieh-Min Lin (183-88) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Yulon Luxgen. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Pure Youth: H.Chen 23+5reb+2ast, Q.Davis 17+16reb+5ast, S.Chen 11+4reb+2ast, C.Lin 6+1reb, D.Creighton 5+4reb+2ast, C.Chien 5+2reb+1ast
Yulon Luxgen: K.Johnson 17+10reb, C.Lin 15+7reb+1ast, L.Canopy 14+3reb+2ast, C.Yang 8+2reb+1ast, C.Chen 8+5reb+4ast, C.Lu 3+3reb+2ast
gschID: 174762


Taiwan Beer - Dacin Tigers 78-79

Dacin Tigers surprised Taiwan Beer on the road to take 2-1 lead in the series. Dacin Tigers took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Taiwan Beer won third quarter 20-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Lei Tien (203-83) who scored 11 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Belizean-American power forward Noel Felix (205-81, college: Fresno St.) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds. Four Dacin Tigers players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Trinidad and Tobago power forward Kibwe Trim (208-84, college: Sacred Heart, agency: Top Notch Sports) who recorded 25 points and 9 rebounds and international guard Chin-Min Yang (188-84) added 19 points and 4 assists respectively.
Top scorers:
Dacin Tigers: Y.Lin 23+3reb+1ast, N.Felix 19+7reb+1ast, L.Tien 11+9reb+8ast, C.Wang 10+1reb+1ast, H.Hsu 7+4reb+3ast, Y.Yueh 5
Taiwan Beer: K.Trim 25+9reb+1ast, C.Yang 19+4reb+4ast, J.Cheng 12+7reb+3ast, Y.Wu 9+3reb+1ast, S.Ho 7+6reb+2ast, S.Chen 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 174763



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


Hedo Turkoglu hopes to return in time for playoffs - by Eurobasket News

Hidayet Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) looked serene after the Denver Nuggets crushed the Orlando Magic on Sunday night at the Pepsi Center. As teammates dressed and attendants packed up the Magic's gear, Turkoglu noshed on the postgame meal and sat in a chair inside the visitors' locker room near the training tables.

The truth is, as calm as he seemed, Turkoglu is in a hectic race of his own. Magic officials and Turkoglu hope he can return from a fractured cheekbone and play in the team's first-round playoff series, which could begin as early as this Saturday.

Even Turkoglu doesn't know how effective he would be.

'I'm just trying to get myself into good shape, as much as I can, and hopefully I'll be able to come back and be ready to play,' Turkoglu said. 'I don't know how ready I will be, but I'm pushing myself to be ready as much as I can. And if I get the opportunity, I will try to go out there and do my best that I can and help the team.'

His season already had been filled with as many downs as ups when Carmelo Anthony inadvertently elbowed Turkoglu beneath his right eye on April 5. Turkoglu underwent surgery two days later, leaving his cheek a puffy mess.

Even coach Stan Van Gundy questions what Turkoglu could do in a playoff game, and understandably so.

Turkoglu ran sprints up and down EnergySolutions Arena's court and attempted some shots before the Magic's game in Salt Lake City on Saturday. He did some work in a pool on Sunday. And General Manager Otis Smith said the team will increase Turkoglu's on-court work over the next few days.

But the 6-foot-10 small forward still has not practiced, and common sense dictates that he would be rusty if he plays.

'They said he could maybe start doing some contact at the end of the week,' Van Gundy said. 'That's the start of the playoffs. So, at best, he gets cleared to play to start the playoffs with no games and no practice before then.'

Van Gundy has warned his players not to expect reinforcements to arrive for the playoffs, and the team already knows it definitely will be without Dwight Howard, who is recovering from surgery to repair a herniated disk.

Still, the Magic could use some positive jolt, especially on defense.

Turkoglu, of course, is not considered an asset on defense, but his absence has produced a domino effect, forcing the team to play smaller. Jason Richardson, who is 6-foot-6, has moved from shooting guard to Turkoglu's spot on the floor, where Richardson is less comfortable.

An added body could help the team's woefully thin bench, which was outscored 39-10 by Utah's bench on Saturday and 37-18 by Denver's bench on Sunday.

Turkoglu would wear a protective mask in games.

His face and his sinuses still feel out of whack. He continues to have an odd combination of persistent numbness, burning and itching, and on the team's recent road trip, it wasn't unusual to see him spray medicine up his nostrils.

'I don't know how ready I will be,' Turkoglu said. 'But I will push myself, and if I get an opportunity, I'll just try to go out there and just play as hard as I can.'

Courtesy of http://articles.orlandosentinel.com


Galatasaray's Furkan Aldemir enters 2012 NBA Draft - by Eurobasket News

Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91, agency: Beo Basket) declared for the 2012 NBA Draft. The Turkish prospect averaged 6.5 points and 4.9 rebounds for 18 Euroleague games this season, while Galatasaray made a historical result in its debut year. Aldemir also has 8 ppg and 6.8 rpg for 27 games in TBL. Furkan Aldemir shined last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Best Forward. He registered 14.8 ppg, 15.9 rpg and 1.7 bpg for 9 games at this event (top rebounder). Aldemir also participated at Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso last year. In 2010, he was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 2nd Team -10 and Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Best Defensive Player. There he had 13.9 ppg, 11.6 rpg (top rebounder) and 1.7 bpg (top shot blocker). Earlier, Aldemir very successfully played for U18 and U16 Turkey. He joined Galatasaray last summer from Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir.


TB2L Play Off Programme - by Baha Kurtulus

Selcuk Universitesi Konya finished the regular season as leader.
After Saturday games, Orman, Tire Belediyesi, Gamateks Pa and Tenis Eskrim Dagcilik said bye to TB2L and next year they will be struggling at Division III (TB3L).
Season's point and rebound leader Tyrone Nelson (206-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.) 22.1 ppg and 11.7 rpg and assist leader Admir Kan (185-G-83) 6.4 apg.

Playoff pairings and game programme is given below.

Game 1
27.04.2012 Maliye Milli Piyango - Gaziantep BSB
28.04.2012 Genc Telekom - Vestel
28.04.2012 Selcuk Universitesi - Akhisar Bld.
28.04.2012 Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler - Final Genclik

Game 2
02.05.2012 Final Genclik - Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler
02.05.2012 Gaziantep BSB - Maliye Milli Piyango
02.05.2012 Vestel - Genc Telekom
02.05.2012 Akhisar Bld. - Selcuk Universitesi

Game 3
05.05.2012 Genc Telekom - Vestel
05.05.2012 Maliye Milli Piyango - Gaziantep BSB
05.05.2012 Selcuk Universitesi - Akhisar Bld.
05.05.2012 Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler - Final Genclik


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Old timer goes back to Virgin Islands for talent - by David Edole

Coach Rolando De La Barrera has been apart of Virgin Islands basketball for the past thirty-one (31) years. To hear him speak about players past and present one would think that he was born here. He has been a close friend to Peter Goodwin, Cyril Benjamin and now with the author of this piece, David Edole. With his new post as Coach at
Western Oklahoma State, he is trying to reconnect with the past.
My first V.I. player was Tyrone Farley at Miami Country Day School, said De La Barrera. I also coached Stephon Duberry then he transferred to Hallandale. He was a 6-foot-9 kid with tons of potential. At Champagnat School I had the pleasure of guiding Leberth Roberts, Akin Hughes-Joseph, Rasheem Richards and Jabahri Brown.
Those were fun years. At Berkshire Prep I had Josiah James for a year before he transferred to Hallandale. In all, I had a good time with St. Thomas talent. I did not have any opportunity to coach St. Croix kids. I never had a chance to meet Cuthbert Victor.
At that time De La Barrera received the best that the Virgin Islands had to offer. He did not have to compete with so many other mainland coaches that have almost left the country bare.
Back when I was recruiting, the V.I. was under exposed, said De La Barrera. They were pocket of kids that were real good. I remember Holman Harley and a pocket of kids going to Piney Woods.
Now a lot of kids are going all over the place, added De La Barrera. I see several kids in Delaware and some in Piney Woods. I think the V.I. is presently overexposed. I can log on to latinbasket.com and find information. I can see the Sun Stroke All V.I. Hoops classic over the internet. It is not difficult to get information on Virgin Islands talent.
I dont think another Tim Duncan is going to pop up out of no place. If your 6-6, 6-7 in the ninth grade, someone is going to grab you. Imagine another Jabahri Brown in the 10th or 11th.'
Coach De La Barrera is so in love with the Virgin Islands talent that he recently signed Jose Santos of McArthur high school in Miami, Florida.
I usually track talent in the Miami area and I saw a clip of Jose, said De La Barrera. I knew Coach Ray Lockhart, who is from St.
Croix, and I reached out to him. It was like memory lane talking to Lockhart. He and I spoke at length about the past.
Santos a 6-foot-7 forward averaged 16 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots. Santos is also a member of the Virgin Island junior mens national team and is expected to play with the team this summer at the FIBA Americas 18U.
Many times coaches may recruit players that fit their style of play, said De La Barrera. I like to see what I have and build the offense and defense based on it. Jose reminds me of a player I had here three years ago. That player went on to play at the University of Central Arkansas. So if Jose comes to play defense, gives us energy and blocks
some shots. The future will be bright.
Western Oklahoma State is coming off a 14-17 season and Coach De La Barrera is optimistic.
We had a difficult time finishing games, said De La Barrera. We lost about seven games in the last minute. Our guards just did not get it done. Hopefully since they were freshmen it is out of their system.
With all the optimism and another Virgin Islander in tow, the Pioneers could be a couple baskets away from the NJCAA title game.


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Valdemaras Chomicius confirm Burtt's leaving - by Eurobasket News

Valdemaras Chomicius (agency: Alti Sport ) confirm Burtt's leaving from Dnipro. The Lithuanian Coach of the Ukrainian team said both sides terminated the contract.
Earlier Dnipro has been reported to release Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona). The guard was rumored to have been involved in a fight at the team's training and the decision followed.
Steven Burtt joined the Dnipropetrovsk team in 2010. This season his stats read 21.3 points, 3.7 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in VTB League. In Superleague Steven Burtt posts 18.9 points, 5.1 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. Steven Burtt was named Eurobasket.com All-VTB League Import Player of the Year in 2011. He also got into All-Ukrainian Superleague 2nd Team in both 2010 and 2011. The guard was granted Ukrainian citizenship in 2011. He played for the Ukrainian National Team at 2011 EuroBasket.
Valdemaras Chomicius (agency: Alti Sport ) also announced the injury of Stanislav Tymofeyenko (205-F-89). The Ukrainian player injured his knee in the third game of the Quarterfinal series.


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Skipper Bridge On Play-Off Chances - by Jeff King

Newcastle Eagles veteran skipper Andrew Bridge (193-F-79) was still buoyant and bullish after Sundays 100 - 74 loss at Guildford Heat which meant that the Eagles had lost their last four regular season BBL Championship games heading in to next weeks play-offs against the same opposition.

'We were without four of our top seven guys, we didn't run any of our plays or anything like that. We've definitely changed some stuff up since the last time we played Guildford. We played zone most of the game today and we definitely won't be doing that next weekend. For us it was just about getting through without Darius, Fab or me getting injured and we've pretty much done that.'

One of the benefits of resting players with niggling injuries before the play-offs as Newcastle have done is that some of the regular bench payers have had to step up into the starting five and some of the Eagles junior players have had to be promoted to the senior squad.

'Those guys came in and I think after getting through the whole week they'll be better for the experience. They did some good things in the game today and in the other games through the week. Its just about being comfortable at this level, adjusting to the speed of the game, time to make your decisions really. You've got to know what you're going to do almost before you do it.'

Joel Madourie (196-F-86) in particular has had a high-scoring, minute logging week after patiently sitting on the bench playing limited minutes this season. He's stepped up in to the starting five and made the most of his opportunity according to Bridge.

'He's done a good job. He's obviously shown that he can play on the offensive end but we pretty much knew that anyway. Its just about learning and doing the right things at the right time. This last week he's touched the ball a lot. He's got get used to doing the same things when he doesn't get as many touches during the game and still be just as effective.'

Off-court Bridge is heavily involved in the Newcastle Eagles School of Excellence so how did he feel seeing the likes of Jack Wilson, Ellory Browne and Luke King step up to the senior squad from the Under-18's?

'When Paul Blake started the School of Excellence that was what we were looking for. Those guys have come through pretty much since they were 12 years old which is good to see. They don't need to rest on their laurels. Just because they've played these last few games doesn't mean they're guaranteed anything next season.'

Bridge had some sound advice for the young rookies.

'They need to make sure they gain shape, get stronger and work on their games as there are definitely things they need to do to be ready. I think the one thing that I took out of today was they could have been more aggressive especially on the defensive end where they got pushed around a little bit not expecting to make plays.'

'The older player tries to do that to the younger players and see how they react. If you hit back, if someone's trying to pick on you, and you hit back then they know they're in for a game. So obviously they need to go away and work on a few things'.

However, Bridge was understandably delighted that the Eagles School of Excellence has brought forward young talent that can be trusted at the senior level and he paid tribute to them.

'Overall they should be really happy with what they've done this week. But that's only the first step on the road for them. Fab (Flournoy) gave them an opportunity and now its up to them to take it.'

But, back to business and now the regular season is over, Bridge looked ahead to next weekend's clash with The Heat in the two-legged Quarter Final.

'Its been a long couple of weeks because we wrapped the league up early. We didn't want to lose four games in a row but it happened. However we're not reading too much in to that, we could have won all those four games if we'd needed to. It was just about letting guys rest up ahead of the play-offs and were ready to go now.'

Certainly few teams could afford to drop four games in a row and still go in to the Play-offs confident and being the team to beat but Newcastle Eagles are certainly one of those few.


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Malvin tied the final serie 2-2 - by Hector Lopez

Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) netted four free throws in a row during the last 15 seconds and Malvin defeat Hebraica 65-61 to tie the Uruguayan League final games. They will be playing now the last game on Friday 27. Malvin took a 13 points lead ( (55-48), but Hebraica netted a 13-3 (58-61). The main scorer for Malvin was Anthony Myles (208-F/C-82, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Xavier) with 17 points while Jeffries netted 11 and grabbed 12 rebounds and Reque Newsome (204-C-81, college: S.Indiana) added 9 points and 15 rebounds. For Hebraica Hatila Passos (211-C-86, college: N.Mexico St.) scored 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Matthew Freije (207-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) added 12.


*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


LPB regular season is over - by Eurobasket Center

LPB regular season is officially over. Bucaneros played their six postponed games and booked a spot for the second stage. Marinos are the regular season champs with 28-8 record. Second ranked Cocodrilos have the same numbers, while Trotamundos, Bucaneros, Guaiqueries and Gigantes also advanced to Stage Two. There will be two groups (A and B) with six teams in total. Participants of Group A are Marinos, Trotamundos and Gigantes. Participants of Group B are Crocodilos, Bucaneros and Guaiqueries. Each team will play 8 games, 4 against each member of the group (2 at home, 2 away). The best two teams of each group will advance to the Semifinals. 1A will play vs 2B and 1B will play against 2A in best-of-seven format. The winner will play in the LPB Finals. It will be another best-of-seven series.

Click HERE for the second stage schedule.

LPB regular season - final standings
1. Marinos 28-8
2. Cocodrilos 28-8
3. Trotamundos 20-16
4. Bucaneros 20-16
5. Guaiqueries 19-17
6. Gigantes 19-17
7. Guaros 17-19
8. Gaiteros 14-22
9. Panteras 9-25
10. Toros 6-30


Bucaneros de La Guaira lands Humphrey - by Eurobasket Center

Bucaneros de La Guaira strengthened their roster with addition of 33-year old American power forward Ryan Humphrey (203-C/F-102kg-79, college: Notre Dame). In his first game he scored 15 points helping his new team beat Panteras 94-67. Humphrey played most recently at Atenas Cordoba (Argentina). He is a very experienced player. Humphrey played also pro basketball in Argentina, Cyprus, Italy, Puerto Rico, Spain and Uruguay. He graduated University of Notre Dame in 2002 and it will be his tenth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


BC Astana extends Jerry Johnson and Luka Drca - by Eurobasket News

BC Astana actively works on building the roster for the next season. The team from the Kazakhstan capital announced signing of a two-year contract extension with point guard Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider). They also kept Luka Drca (195-PG-87, agency: Beo Basket, college: Utah) for the next season. Astana already signed contract extensions with Rawle Marshall, Branko Cvetkovic and Head Coach Matteo Boniciolli.
Jerry Johnson appeared 16 times for the club in VTB United League averaging 14.2 points, 3.8 assists and 2.4 assists. Luka Drca had 6 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.6 apg for 5 games in VTB. He joined the club in January.
BC Astana already won the Kazakhstani Cup this year and they have 1-0 lead against Barsy Atyrau in the league Finals. Astana was the regular season champ with perfect 20-0 record. They finished as the seventh ranked team in VTB United League with 7-9 record. BC Astana plays its first season, as the team is formed less than a year ago.


*****************************************************
  WCBL   

Standings

WCBL Standings
 1. Long Beach R. 3-1
 2. Santa Barbara 2-1
 3. Hollywood 2-1
 4. Santa Monica J. 2-2
 5. Nationwide A. 1-1
 6. West LA A. 1-2
 7. Central Coast S. 0-0
 8. High Desert 0-3




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

Women News


Eurobasket.com All-BWBL Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-BWBL 1st Team 2012
#s#
Olga Maznichenko
Maznichenko
Katsiaryna Kashlei
Kashlei
Tatsiana Likhtarovich
Likhtarovich
Gunta Basko
Basko
Lyubov Alyoshkina
Alyoshkina
#e#5

Player of the Year: Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91) of Tim-Scuf Ukraine
Guard of the Year: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88) of VICI Aistes Lithuania
Forward of the Year: Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91) of Tim-Scuf Ukraine
Center of the Year: Lyubov Alyoshkina (203-C-81) of Olimpia Belarus
Defensive Player of the Year: Kristina Alminaite (204-C-90) of Sirenos Lithuania
Import Player of the Year: Ashley Wallace (183-C-85) of KK Tallina U. Estonia
European Player of the Year: Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91) of Tim-Scuf Ukraine
Coach of the Year: Mantas Sernius of VICI Aistes Lithuania

1st Team
PG: Katsiaryna Kashlei (171-90) of Olimpia Belarus
G/F: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-88) of VICI Aistes Lithuania
F: Olga Maznichenko (187-91) of Tim-Scuf Ukraine
F: Gunta Basko (181-80) of Dynamo K. Russia
C: Lyubov Alyoshkina (203-81) of Olimpia Belarus

2nd Team
G: Natalia Anufryienka (174-85) of Gorizont Belarus
G/F: Ieva Krastina (175-90) of TTT Riga Latvia
F: Egle Taraseviciute (182-90) of Sirenos Lithuania
F/C: Volha Istseliatsova (189-88) of Minsk-2006 Belarus
C: Kristina Alminaite (204-90) of Sirenos Lithuania

Honorable Mention
Hanna Kalenta (187-C-94) of Berezina Belarus
Nataliya Gavryliuk (178-F-90) of Tim-Scuf Ukraine
Rasa Zemantauskaite (177-G-81) of Sirenos Lithuania
Alisa Ievtushenko (191-C-89) of Frankivsk-Hal. Ukraine
Mirjam Nikolai (177-G-86) of KK Tallina U. Estonia
Ashley Wallace (183-C-85) of KK Tallina U. Estonia


*****************************************************
  BOTSWANA   

D1 Standings

D1 Standings
 1. Police 5-0
 2. Panthers 3-1
 3. Relics 3-1
 4. BDF 0-2
 5. Ravens 0-3
 6. Splinters 0-4



*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Anna Rimpova selected the top Bulgarian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Anna Rimpova
Anna Rimpova
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Anna Rimpova (183-82). She led Marghera to a victory over the 14th-ranked Borgotaro (5-21) 68-56 in the Italian A2 (12th division) in Saturday night's game. Rimpova was MVP of the game. She scored 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds (was perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line) in 29 minutes on the court. Sernavimar Marghera (14-12) is placed seventh in North group. Rimpova's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Rimpova has individually a very good year with high stats. She averages: 15.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 2.2spg, 2FGP: 57.6%(95-165), 3FGP: 33.7% and FT: 76.2% in the 25 games she played so far. Rimpova played for the Bulgarian senior national team five years ago.

Radostina Slavova-Naneva
Radostina Slavova-Naneva
   #2. Second place goes to former international power forward Radostina Slavova-Naneva (188-86). She was the main contributor in Alghero's victory against the eighth-ranked Virtus Cagliari (10-16) 64-56 in the Italian A2 (12th division) last Saturday. Slavova-Naneva was the best player in that game. She scored 19 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Mercede Basket Alghero (9-17) is placed 11th in North group. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. The Regular Season already ended. Slavova-Naneva has relatively good stats this season: 13.6ppg, 9.5rpg, 2.4spg, 2FGP: 43.4%, 3FGP: 29.6% and FT: 76.1%. She played for the Bulgarian national team in 2010.

Milena Tomova
Milena Tomova
   #3. The Bulgarian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international power forward Milena Tomova (189-82, college: FIU). Tomova contributed to a Napoli BK Women's victory against the eighth-ranked Ancona (12-14) 61-57 in the Italian A2 (12th division) on Sunday night. She was the top player that evening. Tomova scored 17 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 39 minutes. Napoli Basket Women (12-14) is placed ninth in South group. Her team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. It's Tomova's first season with the team. Tomova is currently sixth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). She has very impressive stats this year: 16.5ppg, 10.9rpg, 2.4spg, 2FGP: 49.2%, 3FGP: 31.0% and FT: 67.6% in the 24 games. Tomova played for the Bulgarian national team three years ago.

Radoslava Bachvarova
Radoslava Bachvarova
   #4. Forward Radoslava Bachvarova (183-87, agency: LBM Management, college: VCU), who plays in the French LFB could not help Union Hainaut (14-12) to beat Basket Landes (13-13). She recorded 8 points. Union Hainaut was defeated 56-44 on the road by the lower-ranked Basket Landes (#7). Bachvarova's overall stats this season are: 7.5ppg, 3.9rpg and 1.8apg. She used to play for the Bulgarian U20 national team back in 2006.

Daniela Georgieva
Daniela Georgieva
   #5. International swingman Daniela Georgieva (184-86) was not able to help Pomezia (9-17) in their game against Napoli S.Dike (12-14) in the Italian A2 (12th division). Georgieva scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 39 minutes. The 11th-placed Pomezia lost 53-65 at home to the higher-ranked (#7) Napoli S.Dike in the South group. It was Pomezia's fourth consecutive loss in a row. The Regular Season already ended. This year Georgieva has relatively solid stats: 15.0ppg, 5.6rpg and 1.4spg in the 22 games. She plays currently for the Bulgarian national team.

Roksana Yordanova
Roksana Yordanova
   #6. Forward Roksana Yordanova (184-84) was not able to secure a victory for Viterbo (5-21) in their game against Orvieto (18-8) in the Italian A2 (12th division). Yordanova was the second best scorer with 5 points. She also added 3 steals. Viterbo (#13) was crushed 76-37 on the opponent's court by the much higher-ranked Orvieto (#5) in the South group. It was Viterbo's seventh consecutive loss in a row. The Regular Season already ended. Yordanova has reliable stats this season: 14.3ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.9spg. She is an international player who is currently on the senior Bulgarian National Team roster.

Lilyana Ilieva
Lilyana Ilieva
   #7. International center Lilyana Ilieva (191-88) couldn't help Il Fotoamatore Firenze (12-22) in their game against T. La Spezia (22-4) in the Italian A2 (12th division). Ilieva scored 5 points in 21 minutes. Il Fotoamatore Firenze (#5) was badly defeated 77-59 in La Spezia by the second-ranked T. La Spezia in the South group. The Regular Season already ended. This year Ilieva's overall stats are: 7.5ppg and 4.0rpg in the 25 games. She is also Bulgarian national team player.

Other top Bulgarian players, who play abroad:

Hristina Tyutyundzhieva (189-C-93) plays for Tarbes in French LFB
Doneeka Hodges-Lewis (175-PG-82) plays for Kayseri in Turkish TKBL
Evelina Guneva (183-F-80) plays for Arranz-Jopisa Burgos in Spanish LFB
Ekaterina Dimitrova (182-G-87) plays for Charleville-Mezieres in French LFB
Gergana Slavcheva (186-F-79) plays for Basket Parma in Italian A1
Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82) plays for Athinaikos in Greek A1
Noelle Quinn (183-G-85) plays for Botas in Turkish TKBL
Lydia Milkova (192-C-70) plays for Panionios in Greek A1
Elena Yankova (180-F-86) plays for Femenino Caceres in Spanish LF2
Radostina Dimitrova (185-F-85) plays for Conquero in Spanish LF2
Veselka Todorova (192-C-88) plays for Universitario de Ferrol in Spanish LF2
Daniela Peteva (179-F-89) plays for Arxil Pontevedra in Spanish LF2

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


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


Tamara Tatham's double-double lands her Player of the Week award among Canadians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Tamara Tatham
Tamara Tatham
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Tamara Tatham (187-85, college: Massachusetts). She led SV Halle Lions to a victory over the closely-ranked TSV 1880 Wasserburg (11-11) 78-72 in the German DBBL in Friday night's game. Tatham was MVP of the game. She had a double-double by scoring 29 points and getting 11 rebounds. Tatham also added 3 assists and 3 blocks in 34 minutes on the court. SV Halle Lions (11-11) is placed seventh in the DBBL. Tatham belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #2) and also on the list of best rebounders (second place). She has individually a very good year with high stats. Tatham averages: 20.9ppg, 10.2rpg, 2.5apg, 3.0spg, 2FGP: 60.2%(160-266) and FT: 75.5% in the 23 games she played so far. She is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

Courtnay Pilypaitis
Courtnay Pilypaitis
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-88, college: Vermont). Pilypaitis was the main contributor in a VICI Aistes' victory against the closely-ranked Kibirkstis-Tiche (18-10) crushing them 92-68 in the Lithuanian LMKL last Tuesday. She was the best player in that game. Pilypaitis scored 19 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists; quite an impressive performance considering it's only her second season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. VICI Aistes Kaunas (28-0) is placed first in the LMKL. So far her team won all games in the Finals. Pilypaitis is ranked fourth on the list of the best passers in the league and also on the list of most steals (fourth place). She has very reliable stats this season: 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 4.1apg, 2.9spg, 2FGP: 50.6%, 3FGP: 33.0% and FT: 83.1%. Pilypaitis is in the roster of the Canadian senior national team.

Stephany Skrba
Stephany Skrba
   #3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Stephany Skrba (188-87, college: Michigan). She contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Challes-les-Eaux (19-7) crushing them 78-58 in the French LFB on Saturday night. Skrba scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 24 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket (21-5) is placed second in the LFB. It's Skrba's first season with the team. She has relatively good stats this year: 10.4ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 65.3%(62-95) and FT: 95.7%(22-23) in the 14 games. Skrba played for the Canadian national team six years ago.

Jenifer Nadalin
Jenifer Nadalin
   #4. Power forward Jenifer Nadalin (187-83, college: Furman) contributed to a Familia Schio's victory against the closely-ranked Comense (16-6) 61-55 in the Italian A1 in Saturday night's game. She scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Famila Wuber Schio (18-4) is placed second in the A1. It was her team's third consecutive victory in a row. Nadalin's overall stats this season are: 6.3ppg and 4.5rpg. She has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Italian. Despite Nadalin played previously for the Italian national team, she is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Lizanne Murphy
Lizanne Murphy
   #5. International forward Lizanne Murphy (185-84, college: Hofstra), who plays in the French LFB could not help Tarbes (14-12) to beat Nantes Reze (13-18). Murphy scored 7 points in 29 minutes. Tarbes lost 54-66 at home to the one of league's weakest teams (#13) Nantes Reze. This year Murphy's overall stats are: 9.9ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.9apg in the 14 games. Despite she played previously for the Italian national team, Murphy is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Matteke Hutzler
Matteke Hutzler
   #6. Center Matteke Hutzler (188) was not able to help Academico FC - Liberty Seguros (9-13) in their game against AD Vagos (20-2) in the Portuguese Liga Feminina. She did not beat the league record on Saturday evening. Hutzler scored only 2 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Academico FC - Liberty Seguros was defeated 65-59 on the road by the second-ranked AD Vagos. This season Hutzler has relatively solid stats: 12.6ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.2apg and 1.6spg. She is an international player who is currently on the senior Canadian National Team roster.

Rhona McKenzie
Rhona McKenzie
   #7. An experienced international forward Rhona McKenzie (183-76, agency: LBM Management) was the major contributor in a Riva Basket's victory against the sixth-ranked Nyon (0-5) 69-51 in the Swiss LNA in Wednesday night's game. McKenzie scored 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line) in 38 minutes. Canti Riva Basket Ceresio (3-2) is placed third in Places 1-6 group. McKenzie is currently second on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of most steals (third place). This year she has very good stats: 10.7ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.3apg and 3.9spg in the 23 games. Despite McKenzie played previously for the Jamaican national team, she is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Other top Canadian players, who play abroad:

Shona Thorburn (178-G-82) plays for Argon Uni Girona in Spanish LFB
Margaret De Ciman (200-C-84) plays for Cadi la Seu in Spanish LFB
May Kay Kotsopoulos (178-G-88) plays for Athinaikos in Greek A1
Krista Phillips (198-C-88) plays for Dandenong Rangers in Australian WNBL
Chelsea Aubry (189-F/C-84) plays for Bendigo Spirit in Australian WNBL
Krysten Boogaard (195-C-88) plays for Nice in French LFB
Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88) plays for Istanbul Universitesi in Turkish TKBL
Melissa Dalembert (191-F-87) plays for R.Spirou Monceau in Belgian D1
Kalisha Keane (185-F-89) plays for Elitzur Holon in Israeli D1
Taryn Turnbull (178-G/F-78) plays for SG BBZ Opladen in German 2.Bundesliga

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


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


Iva Ciglar selected the top Croatian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Iva Ciglar
Iva Ciglar
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Iva Ciglar (170-85, agency: Data Plus Group). She led UNI SEAT to a victory over the league leader MKB Euroleasing (22-0) 65-58 in the Hungarian A in Thursday night's game. Ciglar was MVP of the game. She scored 18 points, grabbed 4 boards, dished 6 assists and stole 4 balls in 35 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. UNI SEAT Gyor (20-2) is placed second in the A. It's Ciglar's first season with the team. Ciglar is the league's best passer with 5.1apg. She also averaged so far 11.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 56.3%(89-158), 3FGP: 32.1% and FT: 72.9% in the 26 games she played so far. Ciglar is currently a member of the Croatian senior national team.

Ana Lelas
Ana Lelas
   #2. Second place goes to an international swingman Ana Lelas (183-83). She contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Challes-les-Eaux (19-7) crushing them 78-58 in the French LFB last Saturday. Lelas scored 13 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket (21-5) is placed second in the LFB. Lelas has relatively good stats this season: 10.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 46.5%(33-71) and FT: 73.5%. She is in the roster of the Croatian senior national team.

Emilija Podrug
Emilija Podrug
   #3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced former international center Emilija Podrug (190-79) faced previously mentioned Ana Lelas in the French LFB last game. Podrug, who plays in the French LFB. She could not help one of league's weakest teams Challes-les-Eaux (19-7) to beat Lattes Montpellier (21-5). Podrug scored 9 points in 21 minutes. But Challes-les-Eaux was badly defeated 78-58 on the road by the second-ranked Lattes Montpellier. This year Podrug has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg, 6.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 54.8% and FT: 85.5% in the 25 games. She played for the Croatian national team two years ago.

Iva Grbas
Iva Grbas
   #4. Power forward Iva Grbas (188-87) contributed to Reims' victory against the closely-ranked Armentieres (12-13) 75-70 in the French LF2 (12th division) in Saturday night's game. Grbas recorded 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Reims Basket Feminin (9-16) is placed tenth in the LF2. Her team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Grbas has reliable stats this season: 12.9ppg and 5.2rpg. She used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2010.

Other top Croatian players, who play abroad:

Dubravka Dacic (201-C-85) plays for Taranto in Italian A1
Iva Sliskovic (194-F-84) plays for Rivas Ecopolis in Spanish LFB
Suzy Batkovic-Brown (193-C-80) plays for Adelaide Lightning in Australian WNBL
Petra Stampalija (189-C-80) plays for Union Hainaut in French LFB
Andja Jelavic (172-G-80) plays for Kayseri in Turkish TKBL
Sonja Kireta (198-C-76) plays for Basket Parma in Italian A1
Lisa Karcic (182-F-86) plays for Cajarural in Spanish LFB
Natalia Terglav-Tratsiak (195-C-80) plays for Botas in Turkish TKBL
Amra Dapo (184-G/F-76) plays for Navarra Pamplona in Spanish LFB
Marta Cakic (175-G-82) plays for Navarra Pamplona in Spanish LFB
Matea Vrdoljak (186-F-85) plays for Sp.Studentesc in Romanian D1
Jelena Radic (190-C-87) plays for Partizan in Serbian A League

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


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


USK Praha celebrate ZBL title - by Eurobasket News

USK Praha - Frisco Sika 82:52

USK Praha defended their ZBL title. They swept the title series against Frisco Sika. The reigning champions claimed an 82:52 win in the third game of the series to triumph in the League. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) led the effort with 23 points and 11 rebounds.
USK Praha exploded with 29 points in the opening quarter to clear off. They piled up a 14-point lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. USK Praha established a comfortable 49:33 halftime buffer. Frisco Sika struggled to get any closer throughout the third term. USK Praha arrived at the final break up by as many as 25 points 71:46. They never slowed down in the fourth quarter rallying to a well-deserved win at the end. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) came up with 21 points, while Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87) and Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) added 8 points each in the win. Jasmine Thomas (175-G-89, college: Duke) answered with 20 points for Frisco Sika. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) posted 12 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

USK Praha: Delisha Milton-Jones 23+11 boards, Frida Eldebrink 21, Viktoria Mircheva 8, Lindsay Whalen 8
Frisco Sika: Jasmine Thomas 20, Farhiya Abdi 12


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


Catz Lappeenranta triumph in SM-sarja Finals - by Eurobasket News

Catz - Huima 74-57

Catz Lappeenranta triumph in SM-sarja Finals beating Huima 3-2 in the series. Catz Lappeenranta led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Catz Lappeenranta outrebounded Aanekosken 49-34 including a 17-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Kirby Copeland (182-85, college: Virginia Tech, agency: LBM Management) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and swingman Alexandria Anderson (185-86, college: Chattanooga, agency: Regeneracom Sports) chipped in 12 points and 16 rebounds. Center Kenya Robinson (182-70, college: New Orleans) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds and forward Madina Ali (182-87, college: W.Virginia) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Catz: K.Copeland 19+10reb+6ast, D.Pounds 16+2reb, A.Anderson 12+16reb+2ast, E.Reshetko 12+14reb+1ast, H.Vapamaa 11+6reb, R.Lukkarinen 2+2ast
Huima: K.Robinson 14+10reb+2ast, S.Jamsen 12+5reb, P.Holmes 11+4reb+1ast, S.Viitanen 10, M.Ali 10+10reb, D.Jernigan 0+3reb
gschID: 175289


Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game
 Yolanda JONES
  PeKa
  (184-F-84)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Jones, PeKa17.8 
 2. House, FoA17.5 
 3. Wilson, Espoo Team17.2 
 4. Laaksonen, Espoo17.1 
 5. McCants, PeKa16.7 
 6. Copeland, Catz15.9 
 7. Reshetko, Catz15.6 
 8. Ali, Huima15.6 
 9. Anderson, Catz15.1 
 10. Salomaa, FoA15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Yolanda JONES
  PeKa
  (184-F-84)
  Avg: 13.5
 1. Jones, PeKa13.5 
 2. Hart, Kerava12.6 
 3. Laaksonen, Espoo11.2 
 4. Ali, Huima10.9 
 5. Olorunnife, FoA10.9 
 6. Szunko, ToPo10.8 
 7. Evans, FoA10.7 
 8. Robinson, Huima9.8 
 9. Reshetko, Catz9.8 
 10. Anderson, Catz9.6 
Assists Per Game
 Vanessa HOUSE
  FoA
  (170-G-88)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. House, FoA4.3 
 2. Piipari, PeKa3.6 
 3. Copeland, Catz2.9 
 4. Nurmi, ToPo2.6 
 5. Robinson, Huima2.6 
 6. Lehtoranta, PeKa2.6 
 7. Jennings, Espoo T.2.5 
 8. Heintz, FoA2.1 
 9. Pounds, Catz2.1 
 10. Anderson, Catz2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kirby COPELAND
  Catz
  (182-G-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Copeland, Catz2.9 
 2. Olorunnife, FoA2.5 
 3. House, FoA2.5 
 4. Jones, PeKa2.5 
 5. Ali, Huima2.4 
 6. Anderson, Catz2.3 
 7. Underwood, HoNsU2.2 
 8. Jennings, Espoo T.2.0 
 9. McCants, PeKa2.0 
 10. Jamsen, Huima2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Minna STEN
  HoNsU
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Sten, HoNsU2.3 
 2. Anderson, Catz1.4 
 3. Saarinen, ToPo1.2 
 4. McCants, PeKa1.2 
 5. Paavola, Kerava1.1 
 6. Reshetko, Catz0.9 
 7. Olorunnife, FoA0.9 
 8. Ali, Huima0.8 
 9. Szunko, ToPo0.7 
 10. Lepisto, HoNsU0.6 


Catz took the second Championship - by Elina Koskinen

Catz won the title as they won Huima in the fifth game by numbers 74-57 (35-28). It was the second Championship in the clubs history. Catz won the series this time by 3-2 victories. The first quarter of the game was really even. Home team took it only by two points as the numbers were 17-15. In the beginning of the second period both teams had some troubles to score. However they improved their game toward the half-time. Catz succeeded better and won the second quarter 18-13. At the half-time score was 35-28 for home team which was steadily on to the victory. During the second half Huima couldnt get close enough to challenge Catz. In the third quarter visitors had a chance as they were only four points behind. Nevertheless home team kept their lead and won the third quarter 19-18. In the fourth quarter Catz sealed the victory and added their lead by numbers 20-11. Home team finally won the whole match 74-57. One key to the victory was the rebounds. Catz took 53 rebounds against Huimas 36. Kirby Copeland (182-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia Tech) led the scoring of Catz as she finished 19 points but took also 10 rebounds. Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Lamar) netted 16 points while both Elena Reshetko (184-C/F-86) and Alexandria Anderson (185-G/F-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Chattanooga) 12 points. Anderson and Reshetko ruled the game under the basket gathering 16 and 14 rebounds respectively. Kenya Robinson (182-C-70, college: New Orleans) was the most efficient from Huima as she netted 14 points and 10 rebounds. Sanna Jamsen (183-F-79) helped her by 12 points and Patrice Holmes (178-G, college: Middle Tenn.St.) by 11 points. Also Salla Viitanen (167-G-87) and Madina Ali (182-F-87, college: W.Virginia) scored both 10 points.


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


Melanie Arnaud claims French LF2 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

Melanie Arnaud (184-F-88) had an amazing evening in the last round for COB Calais and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com LF2 Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 23-year old forward had a double-double of 16 points and twenty two rebounds, while her team beat Le Havre (#14, 8-18) 70-64. COB Calais maintains the 3rd position in French LF2. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. COB Calais will need more victories to improve their 19-5 record. It's Arnaud's second year at COB Calais and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Arnaud has impressive league stats. She is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 10.4rpg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 23-year old swingman Valerie Labbe (181-G/F-88) of Armentieres. Labbe impressed basketball fans with a triple-double of 18 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. Bad luck as Armentieres lost that game 70-75 to the lower-ranked Reims (#10, 9-16). Armentieres managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. Her team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 12-13 record. Labbe is one of the most experienced players at Armentieres and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was another Armentieres' star - Danish Anda Nedovic (193-F-83). Nedovic scored 25 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Nedovic's great performance Armentieres lost 70-75 to the lower-ranked Reims (#10, 9-16). But her team cannot count on just these two top stars as they also need help of the other teammates. The chances of Armentieres ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 13 games, recording just twelve victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Nedovic could help Armentieres to bring them higher in the standings. Nedovic has a very solid season. In 23 games in France she scored 11.1ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Elena Vishnyakova (191-F-78) of Laveyron - 21 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Christelle Morel (181-F-83) of Roche - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Helena Ciak (195-C-89) of Perpignan - 13 points and 16 rebounds
7. Astan Dabo (203-C-92) of Reims - 14 points and 15 rebounds
8. Lorraine Lokoka (184-F-89) of Toulouse - 17 points and 9 rebounds
9. Valeriane Ayayi (184-F-94) of CFBB - 17 points and 10 rebounds
10. Cheryl Maledon (170-G-86) of Laveyron - 23 points and 6 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)


Pays d'Aix Basket bring in Lizanne Murphy - by Eurobasket News

Pays d'Aix Basket are building the roster for the upcoming season. They agreed on terms of contract with Lizanne Murphy (185-F-84, college: Hofstra) .

Lizanne Murphy spent the last season with Tarbes. The Canadian forward joined the French team in December. Her stats read 9.5 points, 4.5 boards, 1.8 assists and 1.0 steal game in Euroleague. In LFB Lizanne Murphy posts 10.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists per appearance. Previously Lizanne Murphy played for Energa Torun, MBK Ruzomberok, Arvi Marijampole, Catz Lappeenranta, HoNSu. She received All-BWBL, All-Slovakian Extraliga and All-Lithuanian LMKL Honourable Mentions from Eurobasket.com. Lizanne Murphy has been the member of Canadian National Team since 2007. She posted 6.8 points, 3.5 boards and 1.0 assist for Canada at 2011 Fiba Americas in Colombia. She also participated at 2010 World Championship in Czech Republic. Her stats read 4.1 points and 3.9 boards at the tournament.


Arras to bring in Dawn Evans - by Eurobasket News

Arras is expected to add Dawn Evans (170-G, agency: LBM Management) to the roster. The guard will replace Leilani Mitchell (165-PG-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Utah). Dawn Evans started her pro career this season. She had a short stint in Austria. Dawn Evans played for Flying Foxes. Her stats read 10.2 points per game in AWBL. Dawn Evans are now currently under a training camp contract with the Connecticut Sun of WNBA. Dawn Evans graduated from James Madison in 2011. She tallied impressive 23.1 points, 4.5 assists, 3.5 boards and 1.7 steals per game in her senior season. The guard was named All-CAA All-Tournament MVP. She was also trumped All-CAA Player of the Year.


Aminata Konate will join Mondeville - by Eurobasket News

Mondeville are looking for the ways to strengthen their roster. They are close to landing Aminata Konate (170-G-90). The guard spent the last season with Nice Basket. Aminata Konate averaged 8.4 points, 3.9 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game in LFB. Previously the guard had stints in Basket Landes, Strasbourg, Valenciennes and Paris Basket. Aminata Konate used to play for U18, U19 and U20 French National Teams.


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


Interview: Give it up for Artemis Spanou. - by Diamadis Farmakis

One of the ''next best things'' of Greek women's basketball, is answering to the name of Artemis Spanou (182-F-93). She took her talents overseas, in the United States and she is introducing herself to the basketball fans, in Europe.


Hey Artemis. Tell us some things about yourself. In what university you play and in what year you are?? How is the life in the States? is your family with you??..

For the last two years, i have been playing for the Robert Morris University women's basketball team. I am a sophomore currently. I live in America, in Pittsburgh, by myself on campus, as all my family lives in Greece. Although, i was lonely at first, i have now settled in to life over here and i am enjoying it.

Life in America is very different from back home. First of all, i have to do everything myself, cleaning, washing, ironing, shopping. At home in Athens, my mum used to do all of this for me. Here i don't have anything to worry about, except my studies and playing basketball, because i have so much help from people and friends around me. Everything is very organized.

What are your plans after your studies?

I haven't thought seriously about my future yet. I still have two more years here at Robert Morris and then i will see what options are open for me after that. The thing i know for sure is that i want to go on to play basketball professionally. Whether this will be in America, In Europe, or back in Greece, will depend on my perfomance over the following two years and how much i can improve my own game.

What is the style of basketball you like playing the most? What is your ''deadliest move'' on the court? Did you have a good basketball season, this year??

I would say that i prefer playing the European style of basketball, since that i have been playing that style from the age of ten. This may be a slower type of game, but more controlled. I believe i had a good season this year, but i always think that i can do better in the future, that's why we practise everyday, to improve our quality levels.

I wouldn't say that i have a 'deadly move' on the court. However, looking at the positions my coaches play me and where i gained most points this year, i would say that my right jump hook has a high percentage of baskets.

Did you find any difficulties when you first came in USA and started playing?

When i first came, i had difficulties in competing with my teammates, as they were stronger and faster than i was. But that actually helped me to make myself get better and faster and stronger, in order to keep up with the other players.

How difficult or how easy it is, to go to the WNBA??.. Will you go for it, someday?

It has been a goal for me, many years now, to play in the WNBA. However, i am realistic about my chances. I know that there are so many good basketball players who would also like to go to the WNBA, so the competition is very intense. It is not easy, but yes i would like to go for it in the future. There are always possibilities, if you try.

The Greek women national team!.. What to you thing about it?.. Is it in your basketball goals, to establish yourself as an important member of the Greek National Team??

It was my first dream, to play for my national team and i managed to achieve that. My goal now is to increase my playing time in the team and to improve my statistics. In the future, i would like to be considered, as an important and valuable member of the team. This would make me very proud.



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  HOLLAND   


Binnenland ties the score in the Finals (1-1) - by Eurobasket News

Second game of the Eredivisie Finals was played on Saturday. Binnenland registered 63-54 home win tying the score to 1-1 in the series. The format is best-of-seven and third game is scheduled for Friday. Probuild Lions will host that one. Jantine Kraak (193-C-89, college: W.Illinois) stepped up for Binnenland with double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds. Launa Hochstetler (168-G-87, college: Valparaiso) scored 11 and Linda Appers (184-F-85) helped with 9 points. Binnenland shined in the last quarter to secure the victory in this meeting. It was 46-44 for the hosts, when they started 6-0 run and few minutes later were 58-50 up. That was too much for Probuild Lions for rest of the game. As mentioned above, teams will meet against tomorrow. The Lions will host Game Four as well (April 28).


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  ITALY   


Italian A2 round 26 best performance: Lauma Reke - by Eurobasket News

Latvian power forward Lauma Reke (185-F/C-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Orvieto, receiving a Eurobasket.com A2 Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds, while her team outclassed Viterbo (#13, 5-21) with 39-point margin 76-37. Orvieto maintains the 5th position in Italian A2. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Orvieto will need more victories to improve their 18-8 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Reke as usually she does not deliver so high stats. Lauma Reke averages this season 9.8ppg and 5.8rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was young Costanza Coen (190-F-90) of O.G. Collegno. Coen had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as O.G. Collegno lost that overtime game 75-82 to slightly higher-ranked Bolzano (#10, 9-17). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the top position in North. O.G. Collegno dropped in the standings to 12th position. Her team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-18 record. Coen is a newcomer at O.G. Collegno 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.

Third on the list of top players last round was Serbian forward Marija Micovic (183-F-82, agency: Players Group) of S. La Spezia (#4). Micovic scored 19 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Micovic's great performance S. La Spezia lost 55-61 to #1 ranked Ragusa. But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing S. La Spezia needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in South. Their record is 18 victories and 8 lost games. Micovic has a great season in Italy. After 24 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.1ppg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Petra Glaser (196-F/C-81) of T. La Spezia - 23 points and 6 rebounds
5. Karolina Piotrkiewicz (190-C-84) of Bolzano - 18 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Anna Denti (185-F/C-83) of Bologna - 13 points and 10 rebounds
7. Martina Sandri (185-F/C-88) of San Martino - 16 points and 11 rebounds
8. Giulia Crestani (186-F/C-82) of Bolzano - 20 points and 6 rebounds
9. Marida Orazzo (175-F/G-94) of Napoli S.Dike - 19 points and 2 rebounds
10. Federica Scanzani (168-PG-86) of Borgotaro - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists

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


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  LITHUANIA   


VICI takes 2-1 Final lead - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
VICI Aistes - Kibirkstis-Tiche 86-62

VICI takes 2-1 Final lead beating the opponents in Game 3 86:62. VICI Aistes led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Kibirkstis-Tiche's 34. They outrebounded Kibirkstis-Tiche 39-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Vita Kuktiene (186-80) who led the winners and scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. International center Vaida Sipaviciute (193-85, college: Syracuse) accounted for 17 points for the winning side. VICI Aistes' coach Mantas Sernius felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international center Gintare Petronyte (196-89) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and guard Greta Sniokaite (180-91) added 13 points respectively for Kibirkstis-Tiche in the defeat.
Top scorers:
VICI Aistes: V.Sipaviciute 17+4reb, V.Kuktiene 15+6reb+2ast, C.Pilypaitis 9+8reb+1ast, M.Kvederaviciute 9+2reb+3ast, A.Kemezys 8+3reb, A.Putnina 7+5reb
Kibirkstis-Tiche: G.Petronyte 21+10reb+2ast, G.Sniokaite 13+3reb+1ast, S.Daniels 12+3reb+2ast, L.Rickeviciute 8+3reb, E.Sniokaite 3+2reb+1ast, V.Zilinskaite 3+2reb
3rd place
Sirenos - Ruta Siauliai 73-77

The guests trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 20-9 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great evening for power forward Laura Svaryte (190-92) who led her team to a victory scoring 21 points and 5 rebounds. Center Volha Kapylova (187) helped adding 20 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was center Kristina Alminaite (204-90) with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 11 rebounds and 6 blocks and forward Egle Taraseviciute (182-90) scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Ruta Siauliai: L.Svaryte 21+5reb+2ast, L.Panasiuk 20+3reb+4ast, V.Kapylova 20+6reb+1ast, V.Ziuzkova 10+3reb+7ast, S.Baliutaviciute 4+13reb+3ast, I.Kazlauskaite 2+1reb
Sirenos: R.Zemantauskaite 20+1reb+5ast, E.Taraseviciute 17+7reb+2ast, K.Alminaite 15+11reb+1ast, E.Sarapaite 10+3reb+2ast, I.Kersulyte 6+3reb+2ast, I.Stankeviciute 3+1reb+2ast
gschID: 174871
gschID: 174872



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  MALTA   


Luxol and Loyola advance into Final - by Eurobasket News

Luxol and Loyola celebrate wins in the decisive semifinal games to reach the Final.
Luxol held off Hibs Melita 50:49 in thriller. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the whole game. The scoreboard read 24:24 at the interval. Luxol put their noses in front 37:34 with ten minutes remaining. Hibs Melita tied things up at 43 but Luxol went on a 5:0 run and cleared off for good. Robin Murphy (183-F, college: S.Mississippi) notched 21 points to pace the winners. Mandi Sciortino added 9 points in the victory. Joselle Cardona (183-F-87) answered with 15 points for Hibs Melita. Lena Gipson (182-F-88, college: Santa Clara) notched 13 points in the loss.
Loyola rallied past Depiro 66:49 behind 27 points from Grima. Loyola stormed into the game taking a 16:6 lead at the first break. Loyola extended their lead to as many as 16 points at the final break 52:36. Depiro failed to threaten the margin and had to surrender at the end. Desarae Johnson (185-F-88, college: Jacksonville) provided 20 points in the win. Stephanie De Martino (184-F-93) answered with 12 points for Depiro. F Bianco had 10 points in defeat.
The Final series is slated to start on Wednesday.


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  MONTENEGRO   


Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

All-Prve A 1st Team 2011-12
#s#
Biljana Turcinovic
Turcinovic
Nikolina Popovic
Popovic
Milica Milosev
Milosev
Natasa Popovic
Popovic
#e#4

Player of the Year: Biljana Turcinovic (186-PF-89) of Roling Niksic
Guard of the Year: Nikolina Popovic (184-G/F-84) of Buducnost
Forward of the Year: Biljana Turcinovic (186-PF-89) of Roling Niksic
Center of the Year: Natasa Popovic (194-C-82) of Buducnost
Coach of the Year: Mirko Baletic of Roling Niksic

1st Team
: Sladana Radulovic () of Primorje
G/F: Nikolina Popovic (184-84) of Buducnost
F: Milica Milosev (185-93) of Buducnost
PF: Biljana Turcinovic (186-89) of Roling Niksic
C: Natasa Popovic (194-82) of Buducnost

2nd Team
G: Jasmina Bigovic (174-79) of Buducnost
: Marina Vucetic () of Primorje
: Mira Kuzelj () of Antivari Bar
F: Ivana Nikic (177-92) of Roling Niksic
F: Andjela Zlajic (178-92) of Kotor


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  NCAA1   


Dorow new Valparaiso women's basketball coach - by Eurobasket News

Tracey Dorow has been hired as the women's basketball coach at Valparaiso.

Dorow spent the last 14 seasons at Division II Ferris State, guiding the Bulldogs to four NCAA tournament appearances. The Bulldogs were 23-7 last season, making the second round of the NCAAs.

She replaces Keith Freeman, who resigned last month after taking over the program 18 years ago. The Crusaders were 10-21 last season.

Dorow played at Illinois State from 1990-92 before transferring to Northern Michigan.

Courtesy of http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com


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  RUSSIA   


Sonja Petrovic is out for the rest of the season - by Eurobasket News

Sonja Petrovic (188-F-89) is out for the rest of the season due to the broken finger. The Serbian player can not help her Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region in the Final series over UMMC.
Early in 2008 Sonja Petrovic signed contract with Spartak Moscow Region, the winner of the Women EuroLeague and Russian Superleague at that time. In the end of her outstanding season in France Sonja Petrovic top-scored for Bourges that capped their impressive LFB season in style. They toppled Montpellier in the second game of the Final best-of-three series to celebrate their 8th national title. Once again it was Bourges trademark defense that proved the difference at the end.
In 2009-2010 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (Russia-A Superleague) in Euroleague she averaged 4.1ppg, 1.8rpg, while in Russian League her stats read 12.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 88.6%. In 2010-2011 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (Russia-PBL) in Euroleague she had only 3.3ppg, 2.9rpg and in Russian League showed 6.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT-1 (48.4%), FT: 73.7%. The season 2011-2012 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (Russia-PBL) she averaged 9.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 46.9%, FT: 78.0% in Euroleague and had 8.9 points per game in the League.


Candace Parker erupted for UMMC second straight win in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

FINAL UMMC - Spartak V MR 80-73 (2-0)

The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 39-29 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. American power forward Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) (193-86, college: Tennessee) had a double-double by scoring 24 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and French center Sandrine Gruda (193-87) chipped in 20 points during the contest. American power forward Candice Dupree (188-84, college: Temple, agency: LBM Management) responded with 24 points and 7 rebounds and the former international guard Becky Hammon (168-77, college: Colorado St., agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 15 points and 5 assists.
Top scorers:
Spartak V MR: C.Dupree 24+7reb+1ast, B.Hammon 15+3reb+5ast, S.Augustus 13+10reb, N.Baric 6+1reb+3ast, M.Kuzina 6+3reb, M.Kalmykova 6+2reb
UMMC: C.Parker 24+15reb+7ast, S.Gruda 20+4reb, D.Nolan 13+2reb+4ast, S.Bird 8+1reb+4ast, S.Abrosimova 5+1ast, Y.Leuchanka 4+6reb+1ast

3rd place
Dynamo K. - Nadezhda O. 57-70 (0-2)

Dynamo Kursk was ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 37-21 second half run of Nadezhda Orenburg. American power forward Rebekkah Brunson (191-81, college: Georgetown, agency: LBM Management) notched a double-double by scoring 19 points and 14 rebounds to lead the effort and international guard Elena Danilochkina (185-86) supported her with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Even 12 points and 6 rebounds by Anastasia Bocharova (182-77) did not help to save the game for Dynamo Kursk. International Anna Petrakova (189-84) added 12 points for the hosts. Dynamo Kursk's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Dynamo K.: A.Petrakova 12+4reb+2ast, A.Bocharova 12+6reb+1ast, T.Johnson 9+4ast, A.Fomina 6+2reb, E.Lisina 5+3reb+1ast, M.Snow 5+9reb+1ast
Nadezhda O.: R.Brunson 19+14reb+3ast, K.Douglas 18+2reb+1ast, E.Danilochkina 15+5reb+3ast, N.Zhedik 7+1reb+1ast, A.Veremeenko 6+11reb+4ast, O.Ovcharenko 3+2reb

gschID: 175395



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  SLOVENIA   


SKL Semifinals: Athlete Celje and Triglav take 1-0 lead against their rivals - by Eurobasket News

First games of the SKL Semifinals are completed last night. Triglav handed 68-57 loss to AJM Maribor taking 1-0 lead in the series. On Saturday, Athlete Celje destroyed Ilrija as a guest 57-100 also for 1-0. The format is best-of-three, so Triglav and Celje are one win away from the Finals. Second games are scheduled for today (Celje - Ilrija) and Saturday (Triglav - Maribor). Athlete Celje played in the SKL Finals last two years. They were SKL champions in 2008 and 2009.

Ilrija - Athlete Celje 57-100 (0-1)
The game without a history. Athlete Celje led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Ilrija's 22 and made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Ilrija 43-14 including a 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Bosnian center Marica Gajic (192-95) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 17 rebounds for the winners and Serbian guard Sanja Orozovic (184-90) chipped in 18 points. Five Athlete Celje players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard Sandra Bajrektarevic (168-90) responded with 18 points and point guard Sara Meden (170-94) scored 8 points and 6 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Athlete Celje: S.Orozovic 18+4reb+3ast, T.Trebec 16+4reb+3ast, Z.Macura 15+6reb+1ast, T.Oblak 14+1reb+3ast, M.Gajic 12+17reb+2ast, N.Gabrovsek 8+2reb+4ast
Ilrija: S.Bajrektarevic 18+3reb+2ast, S.Meden 8+3reb+6ast, E.Grobisa 7+1reb+2ast, U.Cuk 7+3reb, V.Lesnjak 7+2reb, N.Vene 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 175537


Triglav - AJM Maribor 68-57 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Triglav. AJM Maribor was better in fourth quarter 9-6. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded AJM Maribor 50-31 including a 36-25 advantage in defensive rebounds. The former international guard Natasa Radulovic (180-G-82, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) nailed a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds for the winning side and the former international guard Bojana Duric (174-91) accounted for 14 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Triglav players scored in double figures. Serbian power forward Kristina Baltic (187-90, agency: Regeneracom Sports) came up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds and the former international guard Ljubica Kure (178-81) added 18 points respectively for AJM Maribor in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Triglav: N.Radulovic 17+15reb+2ast, B.Duric 14+7reb+6ast, Z.Zdolsek 13+11reb+1ast, M.Pirsic 11+10reb, A.Ljubenovic 9+6reb+3ast, P.Zalar 4+1reb+2ast
AJM Maribor: L.Kure 18+3reb+3ast, K.Baltic 18+10reb+1ast, M.Drozg 9+8reb, T.Unverdorben 5+2reb+3ast, T.Srot 4+4reb, I.Kerin 3+4reb+1ast

Standings - Women

SKL Stage Two Standings
Places 1-6
 1. Athlete Celje 27-1
 2. Triglav 24-4
 3. AJM Maribor 17-11
 4. Ilrija 16-12
 5. Grosuplje 14-14
 6. Jezica 9-19
Places 7-9
 1. Rogaska 9-13
 2. Pomurje 7-15
 3. Domzale 3-19
Stage One Standings

Semi-Finals: Round 2

Apr. 24: Athlete Celje - Ilrija 66-57
Apr. 26: AJM Maribor - Triglav 62-64

Finals: Round 1

May. 3: Athlete Celje - Triglav



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  SPAIN   


Ros Casares beats Perfumerias again, wins LFB title - by Eurobasket News

LFB Finals, Game 2: Perfumerias - Ros Casares 68-86 (0-2)

Ros Casares blasted Perfumerias as a guest 68-86 winning the LFB title with perfect 2-0 in the Finals. The Valencia team celebrated 74-72 home victory in Game One. Ros Casares already won the Euroleague title earlier this season. The game without a history. Ros Casares led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was forward Maya Moore (182-89, college: Connecticut) who scored 20 points. Belgian center Ann Wauters (194-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points and 15 rebounds and American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-87, college: Auburn, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Perfumerias Avenida's coach rotated twelve players, but that didn't help. Ros Casares was the LFB regular season champion with impressive 26-0 record. They eliminated Rivas Ecopolis in the Semis with 2-0. Perfumerias finished the season with Spanish Cup trophy. They outplayed Ros Casares in the Finals.

Perfumerias: E.De Souza 25+15reb+2ast, D.Bonner 16+7reb+1ast, I.Sanchez 8+2reb+1ast, A.Vadja 6+3reb+1ast, L.Antoja 6+2reb+3ast, M.Fernandez 4+1ast
Ros Casares: M.Moore 20+3reb+2ast, A.Wauters 13+7reb+3ast, E.Murphy 12+5reb+2ast, S.Lyttle 9+8reb+1ast, L.Jackson 9+2reb+1ast, L.Palau 9+6reb+3ast


Jose Ignacio Hernandez close to leave the national team - by Lino Lopez

The great coach Jose Ignacio Hernandez has lived long and hard last years. Firstly his polish adventure with Wisla Cracovia while he also coached national team in last Eurobasket championship and World Championship.It seems that Jose Ignacio will extend his contract with Wisla Cracovia after another sucessful season in Poland.This fact could be the reason what Hernandez would decide to end his relation with the national team. Rumours are growing about the possible substitute of Hernandez in national team. Most people bets for Lucas Mondelo who actually coaches in Salamanca. His awesome experience with former national teams and Perfumerias Avenida makes him the favourite.Anyway Spanish federation is sure to get a great coach for a new age in women national team.


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  SWEDEN   


Eldebrink Frida and Elin won the title with USK Praha - by Eurobasket News

Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Elin won the title with USK Praha that defended their ZBL title. They swept the title series against Frisco Sika. The reigning champions claimed an 82:52 win in the third game of the series to triumph in the League. Delisha Milton-Jones led the effort with 23 points and 11 rebounds.
USK Praha exploded with 29 points in the opening quarter to clear off. They piled up a 14-point lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. USK Praha established a comfortable 49:33 halftime buffer. Frisco Sika struggled to get any closer throughout the third term. USK Praha arrived at the final break up by as many as 25 points 71:46. They never slowed down in the fourth quarter rallying to a well-deserved win at the end. Frida Eldebrink came up with 21 points, while Viktoria Mircheva and Lindsay Whalen added 8 points each in the win. Jasmine Thomas answered with 20 points for Frisco Sika. Farhiya Abdi posted 12 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.
In 2011-2012 Frida Eldebrink averaged 8.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 20.6%, FT: 78.4% in EuroLeague and had had 13.0 in the League.
Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) averaged 2.1ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.6apg in EuroLeague and 5.1 points per game in the League.


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  SWITZERLAND   


LNA Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Helios - Hope-GBA 76-50

Helios cruised past Hope-GBA for the first win in the semifinal series. The game was mostly controlled by Helios. Hope-GBA was better in fourth quarter 16-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Hope-GBA to just 4 points in third quarter. Helios dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Hope-GBA's 34. Helios forced 25 Hope-GBA turnovers and outrebounded them 44-30 including a 21-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Renee Taylor (158-85, college: Miami, FL, agency: Merit Sports) stepped up and scored 27 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and her fellow American import center Mandisa Stevenson (191-82, college: Auburn) chipped in 13 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side forward Rosalie Grobet (185-92) responded with 14 points and 6 rebounds and forward Sarah Cavin (178-92) scored 7 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Helios: R.Taylor 27+6reb+5ast, M.Stevenson 13+8reb+2ast, J.Michaux 10+2reb+2ast, A.Rol 9+1reb+3ast, K.Clement 6+13reb+1ast, S.Kershaw 6+8reb
Hope-GBA: R.Grobet 14+6reb+1ast, A.Rieder 8+2reb, S.Cavin 7+8reb, M.Kolly 6+3reb+4ast, D.Studer 6+7reb+1ast, E.Broch 4
gschID: 175113


Fribourg - Riva Basket 84-65

Fribourg outgunned Riva Basket to celebrate the opening win. The game was mostly controlled by Fribourg. Riva Basket managed to win second period 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Riva Basket 34-18 including a 20-9 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Celeste Trahan (184-85, college: Elizabeth City, agency: LBM Management) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 42 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds. Venezuelan guard Maria Villarroel (174-78, college: Oklahoma, agency: LBM Management) contributed with 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the winners. American guard Shannon McCallum (177-87, college: Charlotte) answered with 27 points and Canadian-Jamaican forward Rhona McKenzie (183-76, agency: LBM Management) added 16 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Riva Basket. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Fribourg: C.Trahan 42+13reb+2ast, M.Villarroel 23+6reb+4ast, M.Milenkovic 8+1reb+2ast, D.Bozovic 6+6reb+4ast, L.Mazzocchi 3+2reb+1ast, V.Dorestant 2+1reb
Riva Basket: S.McCallum 27+4reb+1ast, R.McKenzie 16+8reb+1ast, L.Bernaschina 7+1ast, S.Franscella 7, F.Annibale 4, L.Travaini 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 175114